How to Attain Flawlessly Grilled Cod
This grilled cod recipe has completely altered my perspective on cooking fish! With a homemade blackened seasoning that delivers amazing smoky, savory flavors, it turns mild cod into a flavor-rich dinner that even skeptics appreciate.
I’ll admit: cod wasn’t on my radar for a long time. When I thought about grilling fish, I typically chose grilled salmon or perhaps grilled shrimp. Cod appeared too mild or, dare I say, unexciting—for the grill.
However, after Alex and I crafted this beloved pan-fried cod recipe, I realized grilled cod might actually be…thrilling? I opted to coat the cod with our homemade blackened seasoning, and the outcome was truly fantastic. The gentle fish became a canvas for remarkable smoky, spicy flavors, while still retaining its flaky texture. Now this delectable grilled cod frequently makes an appearance on our dinner table during the summer!
### What does cod taste like?
Cod boasts a mild, pure flavor that is entirely non-fishy. In fact, it’s even milder than fish such as salmon. Due to its delicate white flesh and neutral taste, it’s sometimes referred to as “chicken of the sea” (though yes, that’s also a brand of tuna).
Cod is an excellent beginner fish for those who don’t believe they enjoy fish. (Another introductory fish that’s not too fishy is this grilled ahi tuna.)
Looking for more cod options? Try baked cod, cod fish tacos, or our favorite cod recipes.
### Ingredients for grilled cod
This healthy grilled cod recipe is very straightforward and requires only a handful of ingredients. You’ll need to whip up a homemade seasoning blend, but once you do, you’ll have it ready for several more batches. Here’s what you’ll need for this recipe:
### The best seasoning for cod
In my view, the best seasoning for cod is blackened seasoning. Blackening is a Cajun-style method of cooking fish in a cast iron skillet with a seasoning mixture. Each chef has their own unique blend for blackened seasoning, so there’s no set definition. Most recipes include spices typical of Cajun cuisine: paprika, garlic, onion, oregano, thyme, and of course, cayenne for that kick! The spice level in this seasoning blend is medium hot. Here are the ingredients you’ll need:
– Smoked paprika or sweet paprika
– Onion powder
– Garlic powder
– Oregano
– Celery seed
– Allspice
– Cloves
– Cayenne
– Salt and black pepper
Prepare a large batch, and you’ll have enough for plenty of grilled cod. If you’re after an even spicier option, consider our Cajun seasoning instead.
### Use seafood seasoning as a mild option
This blackened seasoning has a bit of a kick, but our kids actually devour it! If you’re looking for a milder option, we’ve got you covered with our magic seafood seasoning! It’s truly the best combination of flavors: a mix of savory, smoky, and aromatic spices that makes for irresistible fish.
### Tips for how to grill cod
Grilled cod can be prepared right on the grill grates: no foil necessary! It infuses the cod with smoky flavor and a crispy outer layer. Here are our tips for grilling cod:
– What’s the temperature for grilled cod? Medium-high heat, or 375 to 450 degrees. Medium-high heat ensures perfectly cooked cod.
– How long to cook grilled cod? 4 minutes skin side down, then 2 to 4 minutes skin side up! The most effective way to determine if it’s done is by using an internal thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the fish, and it should register 130 degrees Fahrenheit. This should be when the cod just begins to flake when pulled with a fork.
### Ways to prevent sticking to the grill
Some individuals report issues with grilled fish sticking to the grill. Here’s our advice: Don’t attempt to flip it too soon! When the cod is adequately cooked, it releases from the grill grates, making it easy to turn.
However, if you try to touch it prematurely, it may stick and break apart. You don’t need to oil the grill grates. Just lightly oil the fish, and when cooking, wait until the cod easily releases (about 5 minutes). Then flipping becomes a breeze!
### What to serve with grilled cod
There are numerous fantastic ways to enhance grilled cod to create a wholesome dinner! Here are some of our favorite suggestions for turning it into a delightful summer meal:
### Dietary notes
This grilled cod recipe is gluten-free, dairy-free, and pescatarian.
### Perfect Grilled Cod
**Author:** Sonja Overhiser
**Prep Time:** 15 minutes
**Cook Time:** 10 minutes
**Total Time:** 25 minutes
**Yield:** 4 servings
**Category:** Main Dish
**Method:** Grilled
**Cuisine:** American
**Diet
TikTok-Inspired Spicy Honey Cottage Cheese Sweet Potato Beef Bowl Recipe
### This Hot Honey Cottage Cheese Sweet Potato Beef Bowl is Making Waves on TikTok
If you’re in search of a protein-rich lunch or dinner, these sweet potato beef bowls are the solution. Flavored ground beef, sweet potatoes, and cottage cheese unite beneath a lavish drizzle of hot honey, crafting a dish that is both delightful and visually stunning.
Viral dishes aren’t a new phenomenon, but it typically requires something that resonates deeply with the collective mindset for it to go viral. These bowls are trending on TikTok due to their photogenic appeal, heartiness, affordability, speed, simplicity, and versatility.
#### What is the Viral Cottage Cheese Sweet Potato Beef Bowl?
The hot honey beef bowl gained immense popularity on TikTok, with many creators showcasing their interpretations of this protein-packed meal. Essentially, it’s a bowl comprising roasted sweet potatoes, taco-spiced ground beef, avocado, and cottage cheese, all drizzled with sweet and spicy hot honey. While some incorporate herbs and leafy greens, the fundamental components stay consistent: sweet potatoes, beef, cottage cheese, avocado, and hot honey. Its charm lies in the equilibrium of fats, fiber, and protein.
#### How to Create a Hot Honey Sweet Potato Beef Bowl
1. **Roast the Sweet Potatoes**: Peel and dice the sweet potatoes, coat them in a little neutral oil, and season liberally with salt and pepper. For a touch of sweetness, sprinkle a light amount of cinnamon. Roast until they are crisp and browned externally and creamy internally. An air fryer is effective, but an oven or skillet will do as well.
2. **Prepare the Ground Beef**: In a pan, cook the ground beef, breaking it into crumbles. Season with taco seasoning and a splash of tomato paste. You can either create your own taco seasoning or opt for a pre-packaged version.
3. **Prepare the Avocado**: Slice a ripe avocado into cubes or wedges.
4. **Assemble the Bowl**: In a bowl, layer crisp sweet potatoes, seasoned ground beef, a generous portion of cottage cheese (seasoned with salt and pepper), and avocado. Drizzle generously with hot honey and savor.
#### Cottage Cheese Sweet Potato Beef Bowl Components
– **Sweet Potatoes**: Crispy roasted sweet potatoes provide fiber and satisfaction.
– **Lean Ground Beef**: Supplies most of the protein, seasoned with taco spices and tomato paste. Alternatives include ground chicken, turkey, pork, or crumbled firm tofu.
– **Cottage Cheese**: The highlight, adding a creamy texture and blending the flavors beautifully.
– **Avocado**: Contributes creaminess, healthy fats, and added fiber.
– **Hot Honey**: A drizzle offers the ideal sweet and spicy enhancement.
#### How to Prepare Hot Honey
You can purchase hot honey or concoct your own at home. Mix honey, crushed red pepper flakes, and apple cider vinegar in a saucepan, gently heat, and allow it to infuse.
**Hot Honey Recipe**:
1. Combine 1 cup of honey, 1 tbsp crushed red pepper flakes, and 1 tsp apple cider vinegar in a saucepan.
2. Warm it gently for 2-3 minutes until it simmers.
3. Take it off the heat and allow it to infuse for 5-10 minutes.
4. Strain out the pepper flakes and keep in an airtight container.
#### Cottage Cheese
Cottage cheese is a soft, mild cheese available in various curd sizes. It’s creamy, rich in protein, and a healthy option for those aiming to boost their protein consumption. Selecting the right brand can significantly influence taste and texture.
This sweet potato beef bowl is a straightforward, fulfilling meal perfect for any endeavor. Relish your protein-packed creation!
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Sweet Potatoes Filled with BBQ Chicken and Mexican Street Corn Salad
**BBQ Chicken and Mexican Street Corn Salad Stuffed Sweet Potatoes**
Stuffed sweet potatoes are an enjoyable and adaptable dish that can be tailored to fit different tastes and preferences. One especially tasty variation features filling tender roasted sweet potatoes with smoky BBQ chicken, melted cheese, and a lively Mexican street corn salad. This mix not only provides an explosion of flavors but also creates a visually striking and fulfilling meal.
**Ingredients:**
– Sweet potatoes
– BBQ chicken
– Cheese (your choice, like cheddar or mozzarella)
– Fresh corn
– Butter
– Jalapeno
– Green onion
– Cilantro
– Mayonnaise
– Lime juice
– Cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper
– Optional toppings: pickled red onions, guacamole, coleslaw
**Instructions:**
1. **Roast the Sweet Potatoes:**
Start by preheating your oven and roasting the sweet potatoes until they’re soft. This typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on their size.
2. **Prepare the BBQ Chicken:**
While the sweet potatoes are roasting, prepare the BBQ chicken. You can either use store-bought BBQ chicken or make your own by grilling or baking chicken breasts and coating them with your preferred BBQ sauce.
3. **Make the Mexican Street Corn Salad:**
– In a skillet, char fresh corn kernels with a little butter until they have a slight brown color.
– Combine chopped jalapeno, green onion, and cilantro.
– Incorporate mayonnaise, lime juice, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper according to taste. Mix everything together until well blended.
4. **Assemble the Stuffed Sweet Potatoes:**
– After the sweet potatoes are cooked, cut them open and gently mash the inner flesh.
– Fill each sweet potato with BBQ chicken and top with cheese. Return them to the oven briefly to melt the cheese.
– Spoon the Mexican street corn salad over the melted cheese.
5. **Add Optional Toppings:**
Elevate the dish with extra toppings like pickled red onions, guacamole, or coleslaw for added flavor and texture.
This recipe is ideal for savoring fresh summer corn and can be modified to include your preferred ingredients. Whether enjoyed as a main dish or a side, these BBQ chicken and Mexican street corn salad stuffed sweet potatoes are bound to impress with their rich tastes and colorful display.
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Cucumber and Avocado Salad Instructions
# Smashed Cucumber Avocado Salad: An Ideal Summer Delight
As the summer warmth escalates, the last thing many of us desire is to engage the stove. Instead, we yearn for invigorating, no-cook options that can help us beat the heat. One of the top choices for a light and enjoyable meal is the smashed cucumber avocado salad. This dish is not only simple to make but also brimming with flavor and nutrients.
## The Charm of Cucumbers
Cucumbers take center stage in this salad. Their crisp texture and revitalizing taste make them a perfect ingredient for warm weather. When served chilled, cucumbers become even more delightful, particularly when coated in a savory sesame-soy sauce. In Chinese cuisine, cucumber salad is a favored cold dish, often relished as a side with various meals. The addition of avocado provides a creamy, buttery contrast to the crunchiness of the cucumbers, creating an ideal balance of textures.
## Reasons to Prepare a Cucumber Salad
This salad is quick and simple to prepare, making it an excellent option for those moments when you’re hungry yet prefer not to cook. The mix of crispy cucumbers and creamy avocados yields a fulfilling dish that is both light and hearty. It’s a fantastic choice for summer get-togethers or as a refreshing side dish.
## Components for the Ideal Cucumber Avocado Salad
### Cucumbers
For this salad, long English or Persian cucumbers are recommended. These types have thin skins, are nearly seedless, and are crisp rather than watery. While smashing cucumbers is a common technique in Chinese salads to create more surface area for dressing, slicing them can also be visually appealing.
### Avocados
Selecting avocados can be challenging, but they are worth the effort. Opting for unripe avocados and allowing them to ripen at home can yield better results. A perfectly ripe avocado should give slightly to gentle pressure and showcase a bright green hue beneath the stem.
### Soy Sauce
Choose naturally brewed soy sauce for its rich flavor. Light soy sauce is perfect for this salad, enhancing the overall taste without overwhelming the other ingredients.
### Chinese Black Vinegar
This vinegar contributes a distinct depth of flavor, with fruity and malty undertones. If unavailable, rice vinegar can serve as a substitute, though the flavor will vary slightly.
### Toasted Sesame Oil
This oil imparts a nutty aroma and flavor that enhances the dish. It’s best utilized as a finishing oil rather than for cooking.
### Aromatics
Garlic, red onion, and cilantro provide depth and freshness to the salad. The earthiness of garlic and the sharpness of red onion harmonize beautifully with the cucumbers.
## How to Select the Perfect Avocado
1. **Buy Unripe:** Opt for firm, green avocados to sidestep bruising.
2. **Let Ripen:** Allow them to ripen on the countertop, checking for slight softness.
3. **Check Ripeness:** Flick off the stem; if it’s green underneath, the avocado is ready.
## How to Safely Cut and Peel an Avocado
To prevent injury, always cut avocados on a stable surface. Cut lengthwise around the pit, twist to separate the halves, and carefully remove the pit with a knife or by slicing the avocado into quarters.
## Recipe: Chinese Cucumber Avocado Salad
### Ingredients
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 2 tsp black Chinese vinegar (or rice vinegar)
– 2 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp toasted sesame oil
– 1 tsp chili oil (optional)
– 1 avocado, sliced
– 1/2 English cucumber, sliced
– 2 tbsp red onion, thinly sliced or finely diced
– Fresh cilantro, chopped
– Toasted sesame seeds
### Instructions
1. In a small bowl, whisk together the garlic, vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and chili oil. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt if needed.
2. Prep the vegetables: pit, peel, and slice the avocado; cut the cucumber; slice the red onion; and chop the cilantro.
3. Toss the cucumbers, avocado, red onion, and cilantro in a bowl with the dressing. Finish with toasted sesame seeds and enjoy!
### Nutrition Facts (per serving)
– Calories: 270
– Fat: 24.3g
– Carbohydrates: 13.6g
– Protein: 3g
This smashed cucumber avocado salad is a delightful addition to your summer meals, offering a refreshing taste and a satisfying crunch. Enjoy it as a standalone dish or as a side to your favorite summer recipes!
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