Burrata Salad with Tomato and Basil
Let’s give a cheer for burrata cheese! I always select burrata whenever I see it on restaurant menus, and we’ve experienced some exceptional pairings this summer. I can’t resist the contrasting textures of burrata—it resembles fresh mozzarella on the exterior, yet is wonderfully soft and creamy within.
For this recipe, I crafted a classic summer burrata salad featuring fresh tomatoes. Pair it with crostini or a crusty loaf of bread to make it an appetizer. This burrata dish comes together in just 15 minutes, believe it or not, and it’s truly a standout.
I aimed for simplicity while adding a special taste, so I drew inspiration from my Easy Tomato Salad and Tomato Basil Bruschetta. I chose a mixture of cherry tomatoes and sun-dried tomatoes for added richness, plus freshly toasted pine nuts for a savory touch. It wouldn’t be complete without a drizzle of rich olive oil, zesty balsamic vinegar, and a sprinkle of fresh basil. I hope it becomes one of your favorite recipes!
What is Burrata?
Burrata is an ultra-rich and creamy version of fresh mozzarella. Externally, it resembles a standard mozzarella ball. Inside, it consists of stracciatella, a decadent blend of cream and mozzarella curds. It’s milky and delightful.
Burrata can be crafted with buffalo or cow milk. Buffalo milk is more traditional and imparts a brighter, slightly tangy flavor, while cow’s milk is milder and may taste more familiar. Either works well for this recipe.
Look for burrata near fresh mozzarella at well-stocked grocery stores like Whole Foods. Use it right away, especially once the package is opened—it’s stored in water and doesn’t keep as well as hard cheeses.
Serve burrata at room temperature for the best flavor, or anywhere from slightly chilled to just warmed.
Burrata Serving Suggestions
Burrata pairs wonderfully with the Italian flavors found in this recipe: ripe tomatoes, basil (including pesto), balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and pine nuts or pistachios. If you’re not in the mood for tomatoes, substitute them with fruits like sliced peaches, plums, cherries, or cantaloupe.
Present this burrata dish as a salad or appetizer. It complements a wide range of summer meals, from casual barbecues to elegant dinner parties. Enhance your meal with any of these warm-weather options:
More Burrata Recipes
Consider trying my Caprese Salad with Burrata, which features heirloom tomatoes. Burrata can serve as a substitute for fresh mozzarella balls, provided that the recipe doesn’t require cooking the mozzarella. Try my panzanella with torn pieces of burrata instead of mozzarella for a delightful twist!
You can incorporate burrata on pizza, but delay adding torn burrata until the pizza has finished baking, or include it in the last minute to warm it. If it melts completely, it loses the contrast of the creamy center and becomes a gooey, unpredictable mass of mozzarella. Consider swapping the mozzarella on my Margherita Pizza or Arugula-Almond Pesto Pizza with torn burrata, or serve it on Grilled Pizza.
Please share how your burrata turns out in the comments! I enjoy hearing from you.
Burrata with Tomatoes and Basil
This burrata salad recipe showcases tomatoes, basil, and pine nuts, with a drizzle of balsamic vinegar and olive oil. It’s irresistible and ready in 15 minutes. Serve it as a salad or an appetizer with crostini or crusty bread. Recipe yields 4 to 6 servings.
Instructions:
1. If using pine nuts: In a small skillet over medium-low heat, warm the pine nuts until fragrant and lightly golden around the edges, about 3 to 5 minutes, stirring frequently (don’t let them burn!). Move them to a bowl to cool.
2. In a shallow serving bowl, blend the cherry tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, basil, and garlic. Add 1 tablespoon of the olive oil and 1 teaspoon of the vinegar, and mix to combine all ingredients.
3. Gently tear open each burrata ball and nestle them into the center of the tomato mixture. Drizzle the burrata with the remaining 1 teaspoon olive oil and 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar. Scatter the pine nuts over the dish, followed by some reserved basil leaves, along with a sprinkle of black pepper. If using, add a pinch of flaky salt over the cheese.
4. Serve with crostini or crusty bread on the side, if desired. This burrata is best enjoyed the day it’s made, but leftovers will keep well for several days in the refrigerator, covered.
Notes:
Mix it up: Substitute a large sliced peach for half of the tomatoes. Or for a more fruity option, replace the tomatoes entirely with peaches, nectarines, or cherries (approximately
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Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Onions and Mushrooms
**Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Mushrooms and Onions: A Cozy Classic**
Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Mushrooms and Onions offers a delightful variation on the classic beef stroganoff, presenting a lighter yet just as fulfilling meal. This recipe features tender chunks of chicken paired with earthy mushrooms and sweet onions, all nestled in a luxurious, creamy sauce. It’s ideal for a warm family meal or an impressive offering for guests.
**Ingredients:**
– **Chicken:** Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work exceptionally well. They are chopped into bite-sized pieces for rapid cooking and even incorporation into the sauce.
– **Mushrooms:** Button or cremini mushrooms are perfect for their subtle flavor and firm consistency. They contribute an earthy richness to the recipe.
– **Onions:** Sweet or yellow onions are sautéed until they achieve a caramelized state, adding a delicate sweetness that balances the savory notes.
– **Creamy Sauce:** The sauce is a mix of sour cream, chicken broth, and a hint of Dijon mustard, yielding a tangy and smooth texture.
– **Seasonings:** Garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper amplify the flavors, while fresh parsley provides a splash of color and freshness.
**Preparation:**
1. **Sauté the Chicken:** Begin by seasoning the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and paprika. In a large skillet, heat some oil over medium-high heat and cook the chicken until it turns golden brown. Remove and set aside.
2. **Cook the Vegetables:** In the same skillet, add a little more oil if necessary and sauté the onions until they turn translucent. Incorporate the mushrooms and garlic, cooking until the mushrooms are golden and the onions caramelize.
3. **Make the Sauce:** Lower the heat to medium and return the chicken to the skillet. Mix in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Let it simmer for a few minutes to combine the flavors.
4. **Add the Creaminess:** Reduce the heat and stir in the sour cream and Dijon mustard. Blend until the sauce achieves a smooth and creamy consistency. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking.
5. **Finish and Serve:** Before serving, garnish with fresh parsley. Creamy Chicken Stroganoff is typically served over egg noodles but also pairs wonderfully with rice or mashed potatoes.
**Why It’s Loved:**
This dish is adored for its comforting and hearty essence. The creamy sauce is rich without being excessively heavy, and the mix of chicken, mushrooms, and onions creates a delightful medley of flavors. It’s an adaptable recipe that can easily be tailored to meet dietary needs, such as substituting Greek yogurt for sour cream for a lighter alternative.
**Conclusion:**
Creamy Chicken Stroganoff with Mushrooms and Onions is a classic recipe that brings warmth and comfort to any dining table. Its straightforward preparation and rich flavors make it a reliable choice for both hectic weeknights and special celebrations. Whether you are an experienced chef or a novice, this dish is guaranteed to impress and become a favorite in your cooking collection.
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Iced Espresso Martini Beverage
**How to Create the Ideal Vanilla Cold Brew at Home**
Vanilla cold brew coffee offers a revitalizing and tasty way to indulge in your caffeine cravings, particularly during the hotter seasons. Whether opting for a store-bought bottled version or crafting your own, this guide will assist you in producing the perfect vanilla cold brew at home.
**Ingredients:**
– Store-bought vanilla cold brew or homemade cold brew coffee
– Sweetener of choice: simple syrup, maple syrup, or agave syrup
– Ice
**Instructions:**
1. **Select Your Cold Brew:**
– You can begin with a store-bought vanilla cold brew for ease. If you want a homemade touch, consider preparing your cold brew coffee. Follow a reliable recipe to guarantee a smooth and tasteful base.
2. **Adjust Sweetness:**
– To add a hint of sweetness, mix in 2 ½ tablespoons of your chosen sweetener. Simple syrup, maple syrup, or agave syrup serve as excellent natural alternatives that enhance the vanilla flavor.
3. **Ready for Serving:**
– To achieve the perfect slushy consistency, blend the cold brew with ice just before serving. This guarantees a refreshing and silky texture.
4. **Preparation Tips:**
– If you’re getting ready for a gathering or wish to save time, combine the liquids and chill them. When it’s time to serve, blend with ice for the ideal texture.
– Alternatively, you can blend the cold brew and freeze it for up to one hour. Before serving, stir with a fork to restore the desired consistency.
By adhering to these steps, you can relish a delightful vanilla cold brew that suits your preferences. Whether enjoying it on a bright morning or serving it at brunch, this drink is bound to impress.
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25 Mouthwatering Zucchini Dishes You’ll Want to Make Again
**Explore These Essential Zucchini Recipes**
Once zucchini season arrives, my enthusiasm skyrockets. Having tried countless zucchini recipes throughout the years, I can assure you that the secret lies in recognizing how to utilize its distinct characteristics. This adaptable vegetable can shine as the focal point in hearty main courses, create remarkably moist baked treats, or stand out as a straightforward side dish.
I’ve categorized these recipes for your convenience, making it simple to locate exactly what you desire. From main meals, such as my family’s beloved stuffed zucchini boats, to delightful baked goods like these decadently chocolatey zucchini brownies, these are the recipes I repeatedly rely on—all approved by an actual family (mine)!
**Zucchini Main Course Recipes**
Whenever I want zucchini to take center stage, I reach for these fulfilling dinner options. From comforting lasagna to a fun pizza topping, this vegetable offers countless ways to be enjoyed.
– **Stuffed Zucchini Boats**: Scoop out zucchini halves and stuff them with a savory blend of Italian sausage, fire-roasted tomatoes, garlic, and herbs. Topped with gooey mozzarella and crispy panko breadcrumbs, these boats are satisfying enough to fill even the largest cravings. [Get Recipe](https://www.acouplecooks.com/zucchini-boats/)
– **Creamy Zucchini Pasta**: The sauce is decadently smooth, thanks to Parmesan and Pecorino, while rounds of sautéed zucchini provide a hint of sweetness. A splash of lemon zest and fresh basil brighten the overall dish. [Get Recipe](https://www.acouplecooks.com/zucchini-pasta/)
– **Zucchini Lasagna**: Starting with roasting the zucchini slices to eliminate excess moisture, then layering with a rich, garlicky tomato sauce and three varieties of cheese. [Get Recipe](https://www.acouplecooks.com/zucchini-lasagna/)
– **Zucchini Pizza**: This distinctive pie uses zesty salsa verde instead of conventional tomato sauce. The mix of savory zucchini, sweet corn, spicy jalapeños, and gooey cheese creates an utterly addictive flavor profile. [Get Recipe](https://www.acouplecooks.com/jalapeno-pizza/)
– **Ratatouille**: Simmer zucchini with eggplant, tomatoes, and herbs until everything is tender and flavorful. [Get Recipe](https://www.acouplecooks.com/ratatouille-recipe/)
**Zucchini Side Dish Recipes**
These are my preferred recipes for incorporating zucchini alongside my main dish. This versatile vegetable pairs wonderfully with anything from grilled meat to pasta.
– **Sautéed Zucchini**: Elevate bland zucchini into something truly delicious with oregano, garlic, and a generous dusting of Parmesan cheese. [Get Recipe](https://www.acouplecooks.com/sauteed-zucchini/)
– **Baked Zucchini**: Lightly coat zucchini rounds with seasoned breadcrumbs and Parmesan, then bake until golden brown. [Get Recipe](https://www.acouplecooks.com/baked-zucchini/)
– **Zucchini Fritters**: Grate zucchini, combine it with herbs and Parmesan, then fry until golden. [Get Recipe](https://www.acouplecooks.com/zucchini-fritters/)
– **Grilled Zucchini**: Flavor with Italian herbs like basil, oregano, and garlic powder for a smoky kick. [Get Recipe](https://www.acouplecooks.com/grilled-zucchini/)
– **Roasted Zucchini and Squash**: Roast with Italian herbs and top with gooey Parmesan cheese. [Get Recipe](https://www.acouplecooks.com/roasted-zucchini-and-squash/)
**Zucchini Baked Goods and Sweet Treats**
Zucchini transforms basic baked goods into incredibly moist, delectable indulgences that no one can resist! Grated zucchini infuses extraordinary texture and moisture into breads, muffins, and even brownies.
– **Zucchini Bread**: Perfectly textured—moist but not greasy—and balanced with cinnamon and sweetness. [Get Recipe](https://www.acouplecooks.com/zucchini-bread-recipe/)
– **Chocolate Zucchini Bread**: Exceptionally moist, deep, and chocolaty, generously sprinkled with chocolate chips. [Get Recipe](https://www.acouplecooks.com/chocolate-zucchini-bread/)
– **Lemon Zucchini Bread**: The lemon zest contributes incredible brightness, while a sweet glaze on top makes it completely irresistible. [Get Recipe](https://www.acouplecooks.com/lemon-zucchini-bread/)
– **Snickerdoodle Zucchini Bread**: This moist zucchini bread is given a warm, cinnamon-sugar twist reminiscent of a snickerdoodle cookie. [Get Recipe](https://www.ac)
Caesar Salad Elevated with Crunchy Tater Garnishes
# Crispy Tater Caesar Salad: A Playful Take on a Classic
Smashed tater tots, blackened chicken, bacon bits, and crunchy vegetables are combined with romaine lettuce and Caesar dressing for a playful, fresh interpretation of a traditional salad!
## What is Crispy Tater Caesar Salad?
Tater Caesar salad is a trending sensation and it’s easy to see why! This salad showcases crispy, cheesy smashed tater tots instead of croutons, making it just as enjoyable to prepare as it is to savor.
### Key Features
– **Flavor**: Cheesy, savory, salty, and crunchy, this salad satisfies every craving!
– **Recommended Tools**: An air fryer is ideal for achieving perfectly crispy tots every time.
– **Time-Saving Tip**: Opt for bottled dressing, pre-cooked bacon, and rotisserie or leftover chicken to quickly whip up this recipe.
– **Make Ahead**: Prepare the tater Caesar salad a day in advance, chill, and mix with dressing just before serving.
## Ingredient Tips for Tater Tot Caesar Salad
– **Tater Tots**: Purchase or prepare potato tots and freeze any leftovers for future use! Waffle fries and home fries can serve a similar purpose.
– **Chicken**: Use fresh or frozen (and thawed) cutlets which are already portioned and ready to go! Chicken tenders or nuggets can be quickly cooked in the air fryer for added crunch.
– **Bacon and Cheese**: Bacon bits and parmesan cheese offer a salty crunch to the crispy tot Caesar salad. Diced ham, chopped salami, or pepperoni can substitute for bacon.
– **Veggies**: Romaine is the traditional lettuce for Caesar salads. For a nutritional boost, consider adding kale to the romaine mix.
– **Dressing**: Store-bought or homemade? Craft your own Caesar dressing using basic fridge ingredients and keep extra for a veggie dip or for chicken Caesar wraps.
### Variations
– Sweet potato tater tots make for a vibrant and healthier alternative to regular potato tots!
– Optional vegetables such as diced bell peppers, shredded carrots, or shredded Brussels sprouts can enhance crunch and flavor.
– Anchovies are a classic component, so think about incorporating a teaspoon of anchovy paste into the dressing for a touch of that essence.
## How to Make Tater Caesar Salad
1. **Bake**: Oven-bake and smash tater tots, sprinkle with parmesan cheese, and re-bake until golden brown alongside chicken in the same dish.
2. **Mix**: In a large bowl, combine dressing with cheese, green onions, celery, bacon, and chopped chicken into bite-sized pieces.
3. **Combine**: Gently fold in chopped chicken, lettuce, and crispy tater tots.
4. **Garnish**: Finish with additional parmesan cheese, cracked pepper, or croutons.
### Tips
– Apply pan release spray on the tots prior to baking for extra crispy edges.
– Handle the salad gently to avoid breaking apart the tots.
– Store any leftover crispy tater Caesar salad in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Revitalize the salad by discarding any wilted lettuce leaves and draining if needed. Add fresh romaine, parmesan cheese, and dressing if desired.
## More Hearty Salads to Try
Did you make this Crispy Tater Caesar Salad? Please leave a comment and rating below.
### Recipe Overview
– **Prep Time**: 15 minutes
– **Cook Time**: 40 minutes
– **Total Time**: 55 minutes
– **Servings**: 6
### Nutrition Information (per serving)
– **Calories**: 539
– **Carbohydrates**: 37g
– **Protein**: 20g
– **Fat**: 36g
– **Sodium**: 1359mg
– **Fiber**: 4g
This trending recipe highlights crispy tater tots blended with chicken, lettuce, parmesan, bacon, and a zesty Caesar salad dressing, making it a delightful enhancement to any meal. Relish the crunch and flavor of this distinctive salad!
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Brandon’s Culinary Creation for Taco Egg Rolls
### Egg Roll Tacos: A Delectable Blend of Tastes
Egg rolls and tacos are two cherished meals that have won over countless food lovers. Now, envision merging the finest aspects of both into a single, delectable dish: Egg Roll Tacos. This creative meal showcases a traditional egg roll filling encased in soft tortillas, topped with crisp vegetables, and accompanied by a zesty gochujang sauce. It’s simple to prepare and exceptionally gratifying, making it an ideal dish for any gathering.
#### The Concept Behind Egg Roll Tacos
The inspiration for Egg Roll Tacos came from a discussion with a friend who was excited about the trend of merging different culinary styles into one. The idea of filling tortillas with tasty ingredients has become popular on social platforms, and after sampling these egg roll tacos, it’s clear why. The blend of recognizable tastes and textures offers a delightful dining experience that feels both reassuring and thrilling.
#### Reasons to Adore Egg Roll Tacos
1. **Fast and Simple to Make**: This recipe can be completed in just 20 minutes, making it a wonderful choice for hectic weeknights or impromptu social events.
2. **Savory Filling**: The filling contains ground meat, cabbage, carrots, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger, delivering a rich and flavorful taste reminiscent of classic egg rolls.
3. **Tailorable Toppings**: Garnish your tacos with fresh veggies like cabbage, cilantro, or green onions, and drizzle with gochujang sauce for an extra punch.
4. **Distinctive Eating Experience**: These tacos provide a hybrid experience, merging the convenience of tacos with the satisfying crunch of egg rolls.
#### Ingredients
– **For the Filling**:
– Ground meat (chicken, pork, or beef)
– Soy sauce
– Chili crisp
– Garlic
– Ginger
– Shredded cabbage
– Shredded carrots
– **For the Tacos**:
– Flour tortillas
– Fresh vegetables for topping (cabbage, cilantro, green onions)
– **For the Sauce**:
– Gochujang sauce (or your preferred spicy sauce)
#### Instructions
1. **Prepare the Filling**: In a bowl, mix the ground meat, soy sauce, chili crisp, minced garlic, grated ginger, shredded cabbage, and carrots. Combine thoroughly, preferably using your hands for an even blend.
2. **Distribute the Filling**: Take the tortillas and place the meat mixture on one side of each tortilla. It’s simplest to prepare all tortillas before cooking.
3. **Cook the Tacos**: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a little oil. Position the tacos in the skillet, meat-side down, and cook for 3-4 minutes until browned. Flip and cook the other side for about 1 minute, ensuring that the meat is fully cooked (165°F for chicken and turkey, 160°F for pork).
4. **Garnish and Serve**: Once cooked, add additional fresh vegetables on top, drizzle with gochujang sauce, and fold the tortillas in half. Savor the blend of flavors that tastes like a scrumptious egg roll!
#### Conclusion
Egg Roll Tacos are a wonderful and easy-to-prepare dish that unites the finest elements of two favored cuisines. With a tasty filling and customizable toppings, they are bound to be a success at your next meal. Whether you’re seeking a quick dinner choice or a fun dish to enjoy with friends, these tacos are sure to delight. Relish the unique flavor of egg rolls in taco form, and don’t forget to add that spicy gochujang sauce for an extra explosion of taste!
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Smoky and Flavorful Red Enchilada Sauce Recipe
### About the Author: Holly Nilsson
Holly Nilsson is the imaginative mind behind Spend With Pennies, a site committed to offering simple and comforting recipes designed for everyday cooking. With a profound love for nostalgic tastes and straightforward cooking methods, Holly empowers busy home chefs to create delightful meals that are reliably successful.
Her culinary knowledge is captured in her book, “Everyday Comfort,” which seeks to inspire readers with wholesome, home-prepared dishes that bring about warmth and contentment. Holly’s cooking philosophy highlights accessibility and enjoyment, making it simpler for everyone to introduce comforting meals to their dining tables.
For those keen on discovering more of Holly’s culinary creations, additional posts and recipes can be found on her website [Spend With Pennies](https://www.spendwithpennies.com/author/holly/).
### Follow Holly on Social Media
Keep in touch with Holly and explore more of her tasty recipes and cooking advice by following her on social platforms:
– [Pinterest](https://www.pinterest.com/spendpennies/)
– [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/ispendwithpennies/)
– [Twitter](http://spendpennies)
– [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/spendpennies/)
This Award-Winning Cheese Brand Just Brought Back This Delicious Snack at Costco
Stock up today!
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