Source: Closetcooking.com

Sautéed Noodles with Fiery Kung Pao Chicken

Noodles with Kung Pao Chicken

Preparation Time: 10 minutes Cooking Time: 15 minutes Total Duration: 25 minutes Yield: 4

Delicious kung pao chicken featuring chilies and sichuan peppercorns served alongside noodles

ingredients

• 12 ounces of egg noodles
• 1 tablespoon of oil
• 1 pound of chicken breast, diced into small pieces
• 10 dried red chilies
• 4 green onions, chopped and divided (whites and greens)
• 1 teaspoon sichuan peppercorns, toasted and ground (optional)
• 1 tablespoon garlic, minced or grated
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced or grated
• 1/4 cup chicken broth (or water)
• 2 tablespoons light soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon chinkiang (Chinese black vinegar) (or balsamic vinegar)
• 1 teaspoon brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
• 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, roughly chopped
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil

directions

1. Prepare the egg noodles according to the instructions on the package.
2. In a wok/skillet/pan, heat the oil over medium-high heat, then add the chicken and cook until lightly golden, approximately 8 minutes.
3. Include the chilies and the whites of the green onions and sauté for a minute.
4. Mix in the sichuan peppercorns, garlic, ginger, broth, soy sauces, vinegar, sugar, and cornstarch, then cook for 2 minutes.
5. Incorporate the noodles, stir thoroughly, and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
6. Remove from heat, add the greens of the green onions, peanuts, and sesame oil, then serve and enjoy!

Note: You may substitute 3 tablespoons of soy sauce for the combination of light and dark soy sauces.

Buffalo-Style Chicken and Cheese Hoagies

Buffalo Chicken Cheesesteak Subs

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Overall Time: 30 minutes

Yields: 4 servings

Summary: Experience all the tastes of buffalo chicken, prepared in a cheesesteak manner with onions, peppers, and cheese!

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, sliced thin
• 1 tablespoon oil (or mayonnaise)
• 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning *
• 1 tablespoon oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1/4 cup buffalo hot sauce
• 1/2 tablespoon soy sauce (optional) (gluten-free or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1/2 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional) (gluten-free for gluten-free)
• 4 slices provolone cheese
• 4 hoagies/buns/rolls, halved (optionally toasted) (gluten-free for gluten-free)

Instructions

1. Combine the chicken, oil, and ranch seasoning, then set aside.
2. Heat the oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, add the onion and pepper, and sauté until lightly browned and tender, approximately 5 minutes, then set aside.
3. Add the chicken and cook for about 8 minutes.
4. Add the buffalo sauce, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, onions, and peppers, cooking for 3 more minutes.
5. Place the cheese on top, cover, and let it melt.
6. Distribute the chicken and pepper mixture into the buns and savor!

Variations:

• Incorporate 4 strips of cooked and sliced bacon
• Prepare ranch seasoning using: 1 teaspoon dried parsley, 1 teaspoon dried chives, 1 teaspoon dried dill, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, and 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder.
• Swap the ranch seasoning for: 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon paprika (or smoked paprika), 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon pepper.
• Substitute provolone with 1/2 cup cheese whiz! Or use both!
• Substitute provolone with 1/4 cup blue cheese!

Engaging in Meatless Mondays: An Overview for Decreasing Meat Intake One Day a Week

**The Ultimate Vegetarian Recipes for Quick, Simple, and Delicious Meatless Mondays**

Are you prepared to embrace a Meatless Monday? The concept is to have one meal a week that doesn’t include meat. Now, let me clarify—I could never forsake items like bacon, steaks, burgers, etc., yet I do discover that I enjoy numerous meat-free meals, and they are equally flavorful and often rather nutritious! With all the fresh summer produce available, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy a meatless meal. Here are some of my top vegetarian recipes if you wish to go meatless this Monday!

**1. Caprese-Stuffed Avocados**
These avocados are packed with fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil, drizzled with balsamic glaze. They are revitalizing, fulfilling, and require just 10 minutes to make.

**2. Vegetable Stir-Fry**
A swift and vibrant stir-fry featuring your selection of vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas. Toss them in a soy sauce and ginger dressing for a tasty meal ready in 15 minutes.

**3. Chickpea Salad Sandwich**
Mash chickpeas with avocado, lemon juice, and your preferred spices. Spread the mixture on whole-grain bread with lettuce and tomato for a sandwich rich in protein.

**4. Zucchini Noodles with Pesto**
Spiralize zucchini into noodles and mix them with homemade or store-bought pesto. Add cherry tomatoes and pine nuts for added flavor and crunch.

**5. Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells**
Stuff pasta shells with a blend of ricotta cheese, spinach, and herbs. Top with marinara sauce and bake until bubbly for a comforting dish that’s bound to satisfy.

**6. Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos**
Roast sweet potatoes and combine them with black beans, cumin, and lime juice. Serve in corn tortillas topped with avocado and cilantro for a delightful taco night.

**7. Lentil Soup**
Simmer lentils with carrots, celery, and tomatoes for a filling soup. Flavor with thyme and bay leaves for a warm meal that’s suitable for any time of year.

**8. Quinoa Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette**
Mix cooked quinoa with cucumbers, red onion, and parsley. Drizzle with a lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing salad that’s ideal as a side or main course.

**9. Eggplant Parmesan**
Layer slices of breaded eggplant with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese. Bake until golden and bubbly for a traditional Italian dish minus the meat.

**10. Mushroom Risotto**
Slowly cook arborio rice in vegetable broth, adding mushrooms and peas. Finish with Parmesan cheese for a creamy, fulfilling dish.

These recipes are not just quick and easy to prepare but also so delicious that you might forget you’re forgoing meat. Savor your Meatless Monday with these delightful vegetarian choices!

Tasty and Innovative Methods to Prepare Asparagus

**A Compilation of the Most Incredible Asparagus Recipes Ever!**

The local asparagus season is nearly here, and for many, it’s a highly anticipated time of the year. Asparagus is one of the initial vegetables to adorn our tables after a long, chilly winter, marking its arrival as a celebrated occasion. Its adaptability in the kitchen is unparalleled, enabling it to excel in a range of dishes, from soups and salads to sandwiches, sides, and casseroles. Here, we present a compilation of the most incredible asparagus recipes that will motivate you to fully utilize this charming vegetable.

**1. Silky Asparagus Soup**
A cozy bowl of silky asparagus soup is the ideal way to commence any meal. This recipe merges fresh asparagus with onions, garlic, and a touch of cream, resulting in a smooth texture and a rich, savory essence. Garnish it with a dusting of Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of black pepper for an additional hint of luxury.

**2. Asparagus and Feta Salad**
For a refreshing and light offering, consider an asparagus and feta salad. Blanch the asparagus to maintain its vibrant green tone and crisp texture, then combine it with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese. A straightforward lemon vinaigrette melds all the flavors together, making it an excellent starter or side.

**3. Grilled Asparagus and Prosciutto Panini**
Enhance your sandwich experience with a grilled asparagus and prosciutto panini. Stack grilled asparagus spears with delicate slices of prosciutto, fresh mozzarella, and arugula between two slices of crusty bread. Drizzle with balsamic reduction for a gourmet touch that is certain to impress.

**4. Asparagus and Mushroom Risotto**
Savor a creamy asparagus and mushroom risotto for a soothing meal. Arborio rice is gently cooked with a blend of sautéed mushrooms, asparagus, and onions, soaking up the essence of vegetable broth and white wine. Finish with a generous portion of Parmesan cheese for a luxurious dish ideal for any event.

**5. Asparagus and Cheddar Bake**
This asparagus and cheddar bake is a favorite at any gathering. Layer blanched asparagus with a creamy cheese sauce and finish with breadcrumbs for a crispy topping. Bake until golden and bubbling for a side dish that’s both comforting and delectable.

**6. Lemon Garlic Roasted Asparagus**
For a simple yet flavorful side, give lemon garlic roasted asparagus a try. Coat asparagus spears with olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Roast in the oven until tender and slightly charred, enhancing the natural sweetness of the asparagus.

**7. Asparagus and Ham Quiche**
A savory asparagus and ham quiche serves as a delightful brunch choice. Mix sautéed asparagus and crispy ham with eggs, cream, and cheese in a flaky pie shell. Bake until firm and golden brown for a dish that’s sure to please family and friends.

With these recipes, you’ll be able to relish asparagus in all its splendor during its short but plentiful season. Whether you favor soups, salads, or hearty casseroles, there’s an asparagus recipe here for everyone. So visit your local farmers market, grab a bundle of fresh asparagus, and start trying out these delicious dishes!

Grilled Chicken with Barbecue Sauce Pasta Recipe

Pasta with BBQ Chicken

Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 30 minutes Total Time: 40 minutes Servings: 4

An effortless, speedy one-pot pasta dish featuring BBQ chicken, bacon, and cheese.

ingredients

• 4 slices of bacon, chopped
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, diced
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 1/2 cups chicken broth (link)
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
• 1 (15 ounce) can of diced tomatoes
• 8 ounces of pasta (gluten-free if needed)
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

directions

1. In a large pan over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy, then set aside, leaving the grease in the pan.
2. In the same pan, add chicken seasoned with onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper, cooking for 5 minutes.
3. Introduce the onion and pepper; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about a minute.
5. Stir in the broth, BBQ sauce, tomatoes, bacon, and pasta; bring to a boil, then lower the heat and let simmer until pasta is tender, stirring occasionally.
6. Incorporate the green onions, top with cheese, cover to melt before serving!

Option: Stir in 1 tablespoon of ranch seasoning into the sauce!

Quinoa Chili with Lentils and Beans

A Flavorful and Light Chili Featuring Beans, Lentils, and Quinoa

Quinoa Chili with Beans and Lentils

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6

A flavorful and light chili featuring beans, lentils, and quinoa.

Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup onion, chopped
– 2 cups bell pepper, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 tablespoon cumin
– 2 teaspoons (smoked) paprika
– 2 chipotles in adobo, minced
– 2 (15 ounce) cans crushed tomatoes
– 3 (15 ounce) cans beans (black, kidney, pinto, etc.), drained and rinsed
– 1 cup uncooked split red lentils
– 1/2 cup quinoa
– 3 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon (Mexican) oregano
– 1 tablespoon lime juice (optional)
– 2 green onions, finely sliced
– 2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions:
1. In a large saucepan, heat the oil over medium heat, add the onions and bell peppers, and cook until soft, around 8 minutes.
2. Stir in the garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, and chopped chipotles, and sauté until aromatic, about a minute.
3. Incorporate the tomatoes, beans, lentils, quinoa, broth, and oregano, bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer until the lentils and quinoa are cooked through, approximately 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Mix in the lime juice, green onions, and cilantro, and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking, then savor!

Option: Top with your favorite chili garnishes like sour cream, cheese, tortilla chips, avocado, etc.
Option: Include 1 medium zucchini, sliced, alongside the bell peppers.
Option: Near the end, stir in 1 cup of corn.

Nutrition Info: Calories 310, Fat 5g (Saturated 0.7g, Trans 0), Cholesterol 0, Sodium 1049mg, Carbs 88g (Fiber 19g, Sugars 9g), Protein 27g

Italian Beef Sandwiches Prepared in a Slow Cooker

Crockpot Italian Beef Sandwiches

Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 8 hours Total Time: 8 hours 10 minutes Servings: 8

Tender crockpot Italian-style beef sandwiches topped with provolone and a delightful dipping sauce!

ingredients

For the crockpot Italian beef:

• 3 pounds beef (like chuck)
• salt and pepper to taste
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1 bell pepper, sliced (optional)
• 1 cup beef broth *
• 1 cup sliced pepperoncini peppers (or pickled hot banana peppers)
• 2 tablespoons juices from the pepperoncini jar (optional)
• 1 tablespoon worcestershire sauce (gluten-free for gluten-free)
• 1 tablespoon reduced sodium soy sauce (gluten-free for gluten-free)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried marjoram
• 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
• 1 teaspoon pepper

For the sandwiches:

• 8 rolls/buns
• 8 slices of provolone cheese

directions

For the crockpot Italian beef:

1. Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker, cover, and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 3-5 hours. (The beef will be wonderfully tender when finished!)
2. Shred the beef and savor!

For the sandwiches:

3. Construct the sandwiches and indulge!

Option: Sear the beef in a pan with oil before adding it to the slow cooker.
Option: * If you want extra broth for dipping, use 2 cups broth, set aside the extra broth after cooking in the slow cooker, and serve it alongside for dipping!
Option: Substitute a roasted red pepper for the fresh bell pepper.
Option: Incorporate your favorite sandwich toppings like lettuce, tomato, mayo, pickles, etc.