Bring the tropics to your table with this Tropical Quinoa Salad. Packed with colorful fruits and vegetables, this salad is both nutritious and bursting with vibrant summer flavors. Ingredients: 1 cup quinoa 2 cups water 1 mango, diced 1 red bell pepper, diced 1 cup pineapple chunks 1/4 red onion, finely chopped 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped 1/4 cup toasted coconut flakes Juice of 1 lime 2 tablespoons olive oil Salt and pepper to taste Instructions: Cook the Quinoa: Rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce…
Author: Kerri
Stay cool with this Chilled Avocado Cucumber Soup. This creamy and refreshing soup is perfect for hot summer days, offering a blend of avocado, cucumber, and a hint of lime. Ingredients: 2 large ripe avocados, peeled and pitted 1 large cucumber, peeled and chopped 1 garlic clove 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt 1/4 cup fresh cilantro Juice of 2 limes 1 cup cold vegetable broth Salt and pepper to taste Sliced radishes and extra cilantro for garnish Instructions: Blend the Ingredients: In a blender, combine the avocados, cucumber, garlic, Greek yogurt, cilantro, lime juice, and vegetable broth. Blend until smooth.…
Add a touch of elegance to your summer desserts with these Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies. The delicate flavors of lemon and lavender create a sophisticated treat that’s perfect for tea parties or as a light dessert. Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature 1/2 cup granulated sugar Zest of 1 lemon 2 cups all-purpose flour 1 tablespoon dried culinary lavender 1/4 teaspoon salt 2 tablespoons lemon juice Instructions: Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the lemon zest, flour, dried lavender, salt, and lemon juice. Mix until the dough…
Spice up your summer taco nights with these Spicy Grilled Pineapple Shrimp Tacos. The combination of smoky, spicy shrimp and sweet grilled pineapple, all wrapped in a warm tortilla, is a flavor explosion. Ingredients: 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined 2 tablespoons olive oil Juice of 1 lime 1 tablespoon chili powder 1 teaspoon cumin 1 teaspoon smoked paprika 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper Salt and pepper to taste 1 pineapple, peeled, cored, and sliced into rings 8 small flour or corn tortillas Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish Lime wedges for serving Instructions: Marinate the Shrimp: In a large bowl,…
Take your taste buds on a tropical vacation with this Mango Coconut Chicken. The sweetness of mango paired with the creaminess of coconut milk creates a luscious sauce that perfectly complements tender chicken breasts. Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 cup mango puree (from fresh or frozen mangoes) 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk 1 tablespoon soy sauce 1 teaspoon grated ginger 2 cloves garlic, minced Salt and pepper to taste Fresh cilantro and lime wedges for garnish Instructions: Cook the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the…
Cool and refreshing, this Cucumber Melon Gazpacho is a unique twist on the classic chilled soup. Combining the crispness of cucumbers with the sweetness of melon, this dish is perfect for hot summer days. Ingredients: 2 cups cucumber, peeled and chopped 2 cups cantaloupe or honeydew melon, chopped 1/4 cup red onion, chopped 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar 1/4 cup olive oil Salt and pepper to taste Mint leaves and cucumber slices for garnish Instructions: Blend the Soup: In a blender, combine the cucumber, melon, red onion, mint leaves, white wine vinegar, olive oil, salt,…
Bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your table with these Lemon Basil Shrimp Skewers. Marinated in a fragrant mixture of lemon, basil, and garlic, these shrimp are grilled to perfection and bursting with fresh summer flavors. Ingredients: 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined 2 tablespoons olive oil Juice and zest of 1 lemon 2 cloves garlic, minced 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped Salt and pepper to taste Skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes) Instructions: Make the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, basil, salt,…
Elevate your salsa game with this Grilled Corn and Avocado Salsa. The smoky flavor of grilled corn pairs beautifully with creamy avocado, fresh tomatoes, and zesty lime, making it a must-have for summer gatherings. Ingredients: 3 ears of corn, husked 2 ripe avocados, diced 1 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered 1/2 red onion, finely chopped 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped Juice of 2 limes 2 tablespoons olive oil Salt and pepper to taste Instructions: Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the Corn: Brush the corn with a tablespoon of olive oil and…
Beat the heat with a bowl of Spicy Watermelon Gazpacho. This chilled soup combines the sweetness of watermelon with the tanginess of tomatoes and a kick of jalapeño, creating a refreshing yet fiery summer dish. Ingredients: 4 cups seedless watermelon, cubed 2 cups tomatoes, chopped 1 cucumber, peeled and chopped 1 red bell pepper, chopped 1 small red onion, chopped 1 jalapeño, seeded and chopped 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar Juice of 1 lime 1/4 cup olive oil Salt and pepper to taste Fresh mint leaves for garnish Instructions: Prepare the Ingredients: Combine watermelon, tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red…
Transform your summer salads with this unique Zesty Grilled Peach and Halloumi Salad. The combination of sweet, juicy peaches and the savory, slightly salty halloumi cheese, all brought together with a zesty dressing, makes this salad a true standout. Ingredients: 3 ripe peaches, halved and pitted 1 block halloumi cheese, sliced into 1/2-inch thick pieces 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, and kale) 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts 2 tablespoons olive oil Juice of 1 lemon 1 tablespoon honey Salt and pepper to taste Instructions: Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Prepare the Peaches: Brush the peach…
If you’re a fan of the crispy, golden goodness of onion rings, you’re in for a treat with this recipe. These homemade buttermilk onion rings are not only easy to make but also bring a delicious twist to a classic snack. Perfectly seasoned and fried to a crispy perfection, these onion rings are reminiscent of your favorite restaurant-style appetizers, like those found at Buffalo Wild Wings, but with a homemade touch that makes them even more satisfying. The secret to achieving that irresistible crunch lies in the double-dipping process: first in a seasoned flour mixture, then in buttermilk, and finally…
Beef Wellington is a luxurious dish that combines the tenderness of beef fillet with the rich flavors of mushrooms, prosciutto, and puff pastry. This elegant entrée is perfect for special occasions or holiday dinners, offering a show-stopping presentation that will impress your guests. The following recipe provides a step-by-step guide to creating this classic dish at home, ensuring a delicious and memorable dining experience. Ingredients: 2 lb beef tenderloin fillet 2 tbsp olive oil Salt and black pepper, to taste 1 lb mushrooms (button or cremini), finely chopped 2 shallots, finely chopped 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 tbsp unsalted butter…
Shrimp and Mango Tacos are a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings the taste of summer to your plate. These tacos are a perfect combination of succulent shrimp, juicy mango, and crunchy red cabbage, all wrapped in a warm tortilla. The addition of a tangy lime juice dressing and fresh cilantro enhances the flavors, making these tacos a delightful and refreshing meal for any occasion. Ingredients: 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined 1 ripe mango, peeled and diced 1/2 red cabbage, thinly sliced 1 avocado, sliced 8 small tortillas 2 tbsp olive oil 2 tbsp lime juice 1 tsp…
Greek Lemon Chicken Soup, or Avgolemono, is a classic and comforting dish that combines tender chicken, fragrant lemon, and a rich, velvety broth. This traditional Greek soup is perfect for a cozy dinner or a soothing meal when you need a bit of comfort. The unique blend of flavors from the lemon juice and creamy egg mixture creates a deliciously tangy and creamy soup that will warm you from the inside out. Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast 6 cups chicken broth 2 large eggs 1/3 cup lemon juice (about 2 lemons) 1/2 cup rice (or orzo) 2 carrots, diced 2…
Butternut Squash and Sage Risotto is a creamy and aromatic dish that combines the sweet flavors of butternut squash with the earthy notes of fresh sage. This risotto is a comforting and elegant meal, perfect for cozy dinners or as a sophisticated side dish. The addition of white wine and Parmesan cheese creates a rich and velvety texture, making this risotto a true culinary delight. Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups Arborio rice 4 cups vegetable broth, kept warm 1 cup butternut squash, peeled and diced 1/2 cup white wine 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese 1 small onion, finely chopped 2 cloves…
Thai Peanut Chicken Skewers are a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for grilling season. These skewers are marinated in a rich and creamy peanut sauce that’s both savory and slightly sweet, with a hint of lime for a refreshing finish. They’re great for serving at a summer barbecue or as a delightful weeknight dinner. The combination of tender chicken and the bold flavors of the marinade will make these skewers a hit with everyone. Ingredients: 1.5 lbs chicken breast, cut into cubes 1/2 cup peanut butter 1/4 cup soy sauce 2 tbsp lime juice 2 tbsp honey 3 cloves…
Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Pasta is a delightful dish that brings together the earthy flavors of mushrooms, the fresh taste of spinach, and the rich creaminess of a Parmesan sauce. This pasta dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, offering a comforting and satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare. The combination of tender pasta, sautéed garlic, and a luscious cream sauce makes this recipe a family favorite that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Ingredients: 12 oz pasta (such as fettuccine) 2 tbsp olive oil 3 cloves garlic, minced 8 oz mushrooms, sliced 4 cups…
A patriotic berry trifle is a show-stopping dessert that combines layers of cake, creamy filling, and fresh berries for a sweet finale to your celebration. It is not only beautiful but also delicious. The combination of cake, creamy filling, and fresh berries makes it a perfect dessert for your July 4th festivities. Ingredients: 1 pound cake or angel food cake, cut into cubes 2 cups strawberries, sliced 2 cups blueberries 2 cups raspberries 2 cups heavy cream 1/4 cup powdered sugar 1 tsp vanilla extract 2 cups vanilla pudding or custard Instructions: Prepare the Whipped Cream: In a large bowl,…
Elevate your usual corn on the cob with a zesty chili-lime butter that adds a burst of flavor to every bite. This grilled corn on the cob with chili-lime butter is a perfect side dish that complements any Fourth of July barbecue. The combination of sweet corn, smoky grill flavor, and spicy, tangy butter will leave your guests wanting more. Ingredients: 6 ears of corn, husked 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened 1 tsp chili powder 1 tsp lime zest 2 tbsp lime juice Salt and pepper to taste Fresh cilantro for garnish Instructions: Prepare the Butter: In a small bowl,…
Apple pie is the quintessential American dessert, embodying the flavors and traditions of the United States. With its flaky, buttery crust and sweet, cinnamon-spiced apple filling, this pie is a favorite for holidays, family gatherings, and celebrations. Often enjoyed with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, apple pie is a symbol of home and comfort. This recipe will guide you through the steps to create a classic American apple pie that is sure to delight your family and friends. Ingredients: 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1 tsp salt 1 tbsp granulated sugar 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cut into…