Source: Closetcooking.com

Tasty Taco Recipes

October 4th signifies National Taco Day, a tribute to taco lovers everywhere. As a taco enthusiast, I’ve assembled a selection of some of the most scrumptious taco recipes from closetcooking.com to commemorate this occasion. Whether you appreciate classic Mexican tastes or favor a contemporary twist, these recipes are bound to fulfill your taco desires.

**1. Genuine Beef Barbacoa Tacos:**
Immerse yourself in the deep flavors of Mexico with beef barbacoa tacos. This recipe presents tender, slowly cooked beef infused with a mixture of spices, crafting a delectable filling. Accompany these tacos with traditional toppings like fresh onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice for a genuine experience.

**2. Spicy Pork Tinga Tacos:**
Pork tinga is a zesty, smoky dish consisting of shredded pork cooked in a tomato-chipotle sauce. These tacos are ideal for those who appreciate a touch of spice. Garnish with pickled onions and a dollop of crema to balance the flavors.

**3. Pork Carnitas Tacos:**
Carnitas, translating to “little meats,” are created by braising or simmering pork until tender and juicy. This recipe results in crispy, flavorful pork that’s excellent for filling soft corn tortillas. Enhance with fresh salsa and avocado for a delightful mix.

**4. Quick and Simple Ground Beef Tacos:**
For a traditional Tex-Mex experience, give these quick and simple ground beef tacos a try. Seasoned with a blend of spices, the beef is cooked to perfection and can be made swiftly. Serve with your preferred toppings like cheese, sour cream, and salsa.

**5. Chicken Tacos with a Twist:**
Delve into a blend of flavors with chicken tacos that feature ingredients from various cuisines. Whether it includes a hint of teriyaki or a sprinkle of curry, these tacos provide a distinctive twist on a classic dish. Pair with fresh vegetables and herbs for a refreshing taste.

**6. Shrimp Tacos:**
For seafood fans, shrimp tacos are a must-try. Lightly seasoned and grilled to perfection, the shrimp offer a uniquely delicious taco experience. Pair with a tangy slaw and a drizzle of lime crema for an explosion of flavor.

**7. Veggie Tacos:**
Don’t overlook the vegetarians! These tacos are stuffed with an assortment of roasted vegetables, beans, and spices, presenting a hearty and fulfilling option. Top with cheese and avocado for extra richness.

Tacos provide immense versatility, encouraging boundless creativity in the kitchen. Whether you lean towards the traditional Mexican flavors or enjoy experimenting with new ingredients, there’s a taco recipe for everyone. Celebrate National Taco Day by sampling one of these delectable recipes and find your new favorite taco!

Beef and Corn Casserole (Pastel de Choclo)

Pastel de choclo, a delicious beef and corn pudding pie featuring hard boiled eggs, olives, and raisins!

Pastel de choclo is a South American-style beef and corn casserole crafted with a layer of seasoned ground beef beneath a layer of corn pudding. The beef layer includes ground beef, onions, garlic, cumin, and paprika, with some flour added to thicken the sauce prepared with beef broth. The corn pudding layer consists of ample fresh corn cooked until soft, then blended with basil and cornmeal, pureed, and simmered until it thickens. This beef mixture is placed in a baking dish with optional fillings like sliced hard boiled eggs, olives, and raisins. The entire dish is baked until the top is golden brown and bubbling along the sides. The blend of sweet corn topping and savory beef is absolutely fantastic, complemented by the flavors and textures from the eggs, olives, and raisins! Yum!

Pastel de Choclo (Beef and Corn Casserole)

Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 1 hour 20 minutes Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes Servings: 8

Pastel de choclo, a delicious beef and corn pudding pie featuring hard boiled eggs, olives, and raisins!

ingredients

For the pino (beef filling):
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 pounds ground beef
– 2 onions, diced
– 6 garlic cloves, chopped
– 1 1/2 tablespoons cumin
– 1 tablespoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon pepper
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (gluten-free for gluten-free)
– 1 cup beef broth

For the corn pudding:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 10 cups corn, (fresh or thawed) (about 3 pounds kernels or 8 to 10 ears of corn)
– 10 basil leaves
– 2 tablespoons cornmeal (or semolina)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the casserole:
– 2 hard boiled eggs, sliced (optional)
– 1/3 cup pitted olives, coarsely chopped (optional)
– 2 tablespoons raisins (optional)
– 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
– 1 pinch paprika (optional)
– 2 tablespoons butter, sliced

directions

For the pino (beef filling):
1. Heat the oil in a sizable pan over medium heat, add the beef, and cook for about 10 minutes, breaking it apart as it browns, then drain off any excess grease.
2. Incorporate the onions and cook until soft, approximately 5-8 minutes.
3. Stir in the garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, pepper, and flour, mix thoroughly, and cook for one minute.
4. Pour in the broth, stir, bring to a boil, and simmer until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes, then turn off the heat.

For the corn pudding:
1. Melt the butter in a large pan over medium-high heat, add the corn, and cook until tender, around 10 minutes, allowing it to char slightly if desired.
2. Mix in the basil, cornmeal, and salt, then puree using a stick blender.
3. Bring to a boil and simmer until thickened, about 5 minutes.

For the casserole:
1. Layer the beef mixture in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish, add the sliced egg, olives, and raisins on top, followed by the corn mixture, and sprinkle with sugar, paprika, and butter.
2. Bake in a preheated 400F/200C oven until the edges are bubbling and the top is golden brown, about 35-45 minutes, then let cool for 10-15 minutes before serving!

Nutrition Facts: Calories 591, Fat 33g (Saturated 13g, Trans 1g), Cholesterol 133mg, Sodium 494mg, Carbs 62g (Fiber 7g, Sugars 12g), Protein 29g

A Compilation of 31 Perfect Pumpkin Recipes

**31 Simple Pumpkin Recipes for October: A Month Full of Pumpkin Treats**

October is the time for pumpkins, and what better way to commemorate it than with a pumpkin recipe for every day? Whether you enjoy roasting your own pumpkin or opting for canned pumpkin puree, these recipes are ideal for celebrating the season. Pumpkins are adaptable and can be included in numerous dishes, both sweet and savory. Here are 31 pumpkin recipes to savor throughout October:

1. **Pumpkin Pancakes**: Begin your day with fluffy pumpkin pancakes drizzled with maple syrup and sprinkled with pecans.

2. **Pumpkin Spice Latte**: Craft your own warm pumpkin spice latte at home using real pumpkin puree.

3. **Pumpkin Muffins**: Bake moist, spiced pumpkin muffins for a delightful breakfast or a snack.

4. **Pumpkin Soup**: Cozy up with a creamy pumpkin soup topped with roasted pumpkin seeds.

5. **Pumpkin Bread**: Delight in a slice of spiced pumpkin bread paired with your morning coffee.

6. **Pumpkin Risotto**: Experience a savory pumpkin risotto with Parmesan and sage for a comforting dinner.

7. **Pumpkin Pie**: Traditional pumpkin pie with a flaky crust is essential for the season.

8. **Pumpkin Chili**: Incorporate pumpkin puree into your chili for a unique twist on a hearty meal.

9. **Pumpkin Curry**: A fragrant pumpkin curry made with coconut milk and spices is a delicious dinner option.

10. **Pumpkin Cheesecake**: Treat yourself to a creamy pumpkin cheesecake with a gingersnap crust.

11. **Pumpkin Smoothie**: Blend a pumpkin smoothie with banana, yogurt, and spices for a nutritious snack.

12. **Pumpkin Scones**: Whip up pumpkin scones drizzled with a sweet glaze for an ideal afternoon pick-me-up.

13. **Pumpkin Gnocchi**: Create homemade pumpkin gnocchi served with a sage butter sauce.

14. **Pumpkin Hummus**: Prepare pumpkin hummus for a seasonal spin on a classic dip.

15. **Pumpkin Lasagna**: Layer pumpkin puree with ricotta and spinach for a veggie lasagna.

16. **Pumpkin Oatmeal**: Enhance your morning oatmeal with pumpkin puree and cinnamon.

17. **Pumpkin Donuts**: Fry or bake pumpkin donuts rolled in cinnamon sugar.

18. **Pumpkin Mac and Cheese**: Mix pumpkin into your mac and cheese for a creamy, autumn-inspired dish.

19. **Pumpkin Bars**: Make pumpkin bars topped with cream cheese frosting for a sweet indulgence.

20. **Pumpkin Quiche**: A savory pumpkin quiche with bacon and Gruyère is great for brunch.

21. **Pumpkin Waffles**: Crisp pumpkin waffles topped with whipped cream make for a delightful start to the day.

22. **Pumpkin Enchiladas**: Experiment with pumpkin enchiladas filled with black beans and cheese for a distinct dinner.

23. **Pumpkin Ice Cream**: Prepare homemade pumpkin ice cream spiced with warm flavors.

24. **Pumpkin Salad**: Combine roasted pumpkin cubes with arugula, feta, and walnuts for a refreshing salad.

25. **Pumpkin Pancake Bites**: Mini pumpkin pancake bites are excellent for quick breakfasts.

26. **Pumpkin Bread Pudding**: A warm pumpkin bread pudding drizzled with caramel sauce is a comforting dessert.

27. **Pumpkin Ravioli**: Create pumpkin ravioli with a brown butter sage sauce.

28. **Pumpkin Fritters**: Fry pumpkin fritters for a savory snack or appetizer.

29. **Pumpkin Granola**: Bake pumpkin granola with oats, nuts, and spices for a crunchy topping.

30. **Pumpkin Stuffed Peppers**: Stuff bell peppers with a mixture of pumpkin and quinoa for a nutritious meal.

31. **Pumpkin Tart**: Conclude the month with a stunning pumpkin tart adorned with whipped cream.

These recipes showcase the adaptability of pumpkin, from breakfast to dessert. Whether utilizing fresh or canned pumpkin, these dishes are certain to usher in the flavors of fall to your table. Relish the month of pumpkins with these tasty and straightforward recipes!

Oven-Roasted Zucchini and Tzatziki Sauce Spread

Roasted Zucchini Tzatziki Dip

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6

This dip features roasted zucchini in a tzatziki style, made with Greek yogurt, garlic, lemon, and a generous amount of fresh dill.

Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchini, sliced into 1/2 inch pieces
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
– 2 garlic cloves, minced/grated
– 1 tablespoon chopped dill
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest

Directions:
1. Coat the zucchini with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread in a single layer on a baking tray and roast in a preheated oven at 400F/200C until soft and slightly charred, approximately 30-40 minutes, turning halfway through.
2. Blend all ingredients in a food processor until reaching your preferred consistency and enjoy!

Option: Incorporate your favorite mix of herbs like parsley, dill, and/or mint.

Nutrition Facts: Calories 92, Fat 6g (Saturated 2g, Trans 0), Cholesterol 11mg, Sodium 104mg, Carbs 6g (Fiber 1g, Sugars 4g), Protein 6g

Pasta Salad featuring Roasted Veggies and Ratatouille Dressing

**Chilled and Creamy Pasta Salad with Roasted Summer Vegetables and Basil Pesto Dressing**

With the sun shining brightly and local markets filled with colorful produce, there’s no better moment to treat yourself to a dish that honors the summer’s bounty. A chilled and creamy pasta salad, enriched with roasted summer vegetables and tossed in a refreshing basil pesto dressing, provides a delightful way to enjoy the season’s tastes.

**A Tribute to Summer Vegetables**

Drawing inspiration from the traditional French dish, ratatouille, this pasta salad unites a variety of summer’s best vegetables. Typically, ratatouille is a rustic stew comprising a delicious mix of eggplant, zucchini, yellow squash, bell peppers, tomatoes, onions, and garlic, all sautéed in olive oil. In this recipe, we enhance these ingredients by roasting them, amplifying their natural sweetness and adding layers of caramelized flavor.

**The Roasting Method**

Start by selecting fresh eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and onions. Coat these vegetables in olive oil, ensuring they are thoroughly covered, and arrange them evenly on a baking sheet. Roasting not only deepens their flavors but also grants them a pleasing texture that pairs wonderfully with the pasta. The straightforwardness of this technique belies the intricate taste it delivers.

**Combining the Ingredients**

Once the vegetables are perfectly roasted, it’s time to put the salad together. Mix them with cooked pasta, fresh tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese. The tomatoes, whether fresh or roasted, add a burst of juiciness that enhances the richness of the roasted vegetables.

**The Dressing: Two Choices Available**

For the dressing, you have two exquisite selections. A fresh homemade basil pesto provides the salad with a fragrant herbal note, while a balsamic vinaigrette offers a tangy, subtly sweet alternative. Both dressings elevate the flavors of the vegetables and pasta, making every bite a delightful moment.

**Serving Suggestions**

This roasted vegetable ratatouille pasta salad is adaptable in its serving styles. Enjoy it warm, right from the oven, when the pasta and vegetables are still warm, or let it cool for a refreshing dish perfect for picnics or light lunches. In any form, it promises to be a crowd-pleaser, highlighting the best of summer’s produce in every bite.

In summary, this pasta salad is more than just a meal; it’s a tribute to summer’s harvest. With its vibrant hues, rich tastes, and creamy dressing, it embodies the spirit of the season, inviting you to enjoy the simple joys of fresh, local ingredients.

Fast and Simple 20-Minute Recipes

**100 Quick Family Meals Prepared in Under 20 Minutes**

In our fast-moving world, carving out time to create a nutritious meal can be tough, particularly for families balancing school, jobs, and after-school activities. Nonetheless, with a bit of strategy and imagination, you can prepare mouthwatering and healthy meals in less than 20 minutes. Here’s a compilation of 100 quick family meals that guarantee to save you time without sacrificing taste.

**1. Pasta Dishes:**
– **Garlic Shrimp Pasta:** Sauté shrimp with garlic and olive oil, mix with cooked pasta, and top with parsley.
– **Pesto Chicken Pasta:** Blend cooked pasta with rotisserie chicken and pesto sauce.
– **Tomato Basil Spaghetti:** Combine spaghetti with cherry tomatoes, basil, and olive oil.

**2. Salads:**
– **Greek Salad:** Toss together cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese with a lemon-olive oil dressing.
– **Chicken Caesar Salad:** Mix romaine lettuce with grilled chicken, croutons, and Caesar dressing.
– **Taco Salad:** Assemble ground beef, lettuce, cheese, and salsa for a speedy meal.

**3. Burgers:**
– **Classic Cheeseburger:** Grill patties, add cheese, and serve in buns with your favorite fixings.
– **Veggie Burger:** Utilize store-bought patties for a swift vegetarian choice.
– **Chicken Burger:** Grill a chicken breast and serve with lettuce and tomato on a bun.

**4. Soups:**
– **Tomato Soup:** Heat canned tomato soup and pair with grilled cheese sandwiches.
– **Chicken Noodle Soup:** Use pre-cooked chicken and broth, then add noodles and veggies.
– **Minestrone:** Mix canned beans, vegetables, and pasta in vegetable broth.

**5. Burritos:**
– **Bean and Cheese Burrito:** Stuff tortillas with refried beans and cheese, then microwave.
– **Chicken Burrito:** Use rotisserie chicken, rice, and salsa for a quick wrap.
– **Breakfast Burrito:** Scramble eggs with cheese and wrap in a tortilla.

**6. Quesadillas:**
– **Cheese Quesadilla:** Melt cheese between tortillas and grill until golden.
– **Chicken Quesadilla:** Incorporate cooked chicken and peppers for added flavor.
– **Spinach Quesadilla:** Merge spinach and cheese for a nutritious option.

**7. Pizzas:**
– **Margherita Pizza:** Take pre-made crust, add tomato sauce, mozzarella, and basil.
– **Pepperoni Pizza:** Top with pepperoni slices and bake swiftly.
– **Veggie Pizza:** Pile with vegetables like bell peppers and mushrooms.

**8. Chicken Dishes:**
– **Lemon Chicken:** Sauté chicken breasts with lemon juice and herbs.
– **Teriyaki Chicken:** Use store-bought teriyaki sauce for a quick stir-fry.
– **Chicken Tenders:** Bread and fry chicken strips for a meal that kids will love.

**9. Fish Dishes:**
– **Lemon Butter Fish:** Pan-fry fish fillets with lemon and butter.
– **Fish Tacos:** Use grilled fish, cabbage, and lime wrapped in tortillas.
– **Salmon Patties:** Combine canned salmon with breadcrumbs and fry.

These meals are ideal for those evenings when time is limited. With a range of choices from various cuisines, you’ll never have to face a monotonous meal again. Whether you’re racing to a soccer match or going out for a film, these rapid and simple recipes will make sure you and your family are nourished and prepared for the next escapade.

Cajun-Seasoned Chicken and Cheese Sandwich

Chicken Cheese Steaks Prepared Cajun Po-Boy Style with Cajun Seasoning

Cheesesteaks are delicious sandwiches made with thinly sliced beef that’s cooked, commonly accompanied by onions and peppers, topped with cheese (provolone or whiz) and placed into a bun. This variant of the sandwich, cajun style, features thinly sliced chicken in place of beef! The chicken is seasoned with cajun seasoning and cooked alongside the same onions and bell peppers before being covered with provolone until melted. The combination is then placed into a bun with mayo, lettuce, tomato, and pickles, creating a delightful sandwich!

Cajun Chicken Cheesesteak Sandwich

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 bell peppers, sliced
– 1 tablespoon oil
– 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, thinly sliced
– 1 tablespoon cajun seasoning
– 2 cloves garlic, chopped
– 2 green onions, sliced (optional)
– 4 slices provolone
– 4 hoagies/buns/rolls, halved (optionally toasted) (gluten-free for gluten-free)
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise (optional) *
– 4 leaves lettuce
– 1 large tomato, sliced
– 1/4 cup pickle, sliced
– 1/4 cup pickled jalapeno (optional)

Directions:
1. In a large pan over medium-high heat, heat the oil, add the bell peppers and onion and sauté until just tender, around 3-5 minutes, then set aside.
2. In a large pan over medium-high heat, heat the oil, add the chicken seasoned with the cajun seasoning and cook, about 5-8 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and sauté until aromatic, about a minute.
4. Incorporate the peppers, onions, and green onions and stir before adding the cheese, covering to let it melt.
5. Construct the sandwiches and enjoy!

Options:
– Add a dash of hot sauce!
– Incorporate 1/2 tablespoon soy sauce (gluten-free or tamari for gluten-free).
– Incorporate 1/2 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (gluten-free for gluten-free).
– * Prepare cajun mayo: 1/4 cup mayo blended with 1 teaspoon cajun seasoning.

Nutrition Facts: Calories 459, Fat 31g (Saturated 8g, Trans 0), Cholesterol 107mg, Sodium 656mg, Carbs 41g (Fiber 4g, Sugars 6g), Protein 40g

Stir-Fried Chicken with Zucchini Recipe

Stir-Fried Chicken and Zucchini

Preparation Time: 10 minutes Cooking Time: 10 minutes Total Duration: 20 minutes Servings: 4

A delicious and quick stir-fry featuring chicken and zucchini.

ingredients

• 1 tablespoon cooking oil
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs, sliced thin
• 1 1/2 pounds zucchini, cut thin
• 4 green onions, sliced thin and separated into whites and greens
• 1 tablespoon grated garlic
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/3 cup chicken broth (link)
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds

instructions

1. In a wok or large skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat, add the chicken and stir-fry until done, approximately 3-5 minutes, then set aside.
2. Introduce the zucchini and stir-fry until it begins to darken, roughly 3-4 minutes, then remove from heat.
3. Incorporate the whites of the green onions, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes, cooking until aromatic, about 30 seconds.
4. Stir together the broth, oyster sauce, soy sauce, sugar, vinegar, and cornstarch, then add the chicken and zucchini; stir and cook until the sauce thickens, about 2 minutes.
5. Mix in the greens of the green onions, sesame oil, and toasted sesame seeds, and savor!

Note: Add more oil if necessary.
Option: Tenderize the chicken by marinating in a mixture of 1 egg white, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (optional), and 1 tablespoon cornstarch for 1-2 hours in the fridge. This will make the chicken incredibly tender.
Option: Stir in 1/3 cup of cashews at the end.