Source: Cookieandkate.com

Tex-Mex Inspired Scrambled Eggs with Tortilla Strips

**Do You Know About Migas?**

If you’re not acquainted, allow me to present them! Migas (pronounced mee-guhz) consist of cheesy scrambled eggs mixed with crumbled tortilla chips, imparting a delightful salty-crunchy-corn flavor. Usually, you’ll also find sautéed onions and peppers or tomatoes incorporated, along with your choice of toppings.

Migas go by various names in Mexican cuisine, but this particular recipe is inspired by the Tex-Mex version served in Austin, Texas. It’s a truly fulfilling and tasty dish perfect for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or even dinner.

**I Discovered My Love for Migas During a Month-Long Visit to Austin, Texas**

During my time there, Ali and I tried migas from numerous places, and naturally, some are superior to others. I returned to Austin with my family for spring break, eager to revisit my cherished migas recipe. This streamlined and enhanced recipe makes *the ultimate migas*, in my view!

## The Origins of Migas

The term migas in Spanish literally means “crumbs,” and there is a classic Spanish dish featuring eggs and bread crumbs known as migas. For this recipe with Mexican roots, we’re discussing tortilla chip crumbs.

Migas remind me a bit of [chilaquiles](https://cookieandkate.com/best-red-chilaquiles-recipe/), which is another Mexican dish with saucy tortilla chips, typically topped with fried eggs. In contrast, migas primarily consist of scrambled eggs with tortilla chips integrated, plus optional sauces as garnishes.

## Tips for Making Migas

You’ll find the complete recipe below. Here are my insights from testing this recipe:

### Not All Tortilla Chips Are the Same

While many recipes suggest frying your own tortilla chips, using high-quality store-bought chips yields excellent results. Siete’s Maiz chips are outstanding for this dish.

### Cheddar Is Preferable to Monterey Jack

Cheddar melts well, similar to Jack, but provides a sharper and more distinct taste.

### Importance of Vegetables

For the best flavor, I recommend using a mix of red bell pepper, red onion, and jalapeño. I also experimented with poblano pepper, but red bell pepper is more visually appealing and allows the corn flavor of the tortilla chips to stand out better.

You can omit the jalapeño if you prefer a milder option or if chopping a tiny pepper sounds tedious (you can always add a drizzle of hot sauce later to compensate).

### Serve Migas Immediately

While reheated leftovers are decent, the chips lose their coveted crispness. You might sprinkle some freshly crushed tortilla chips on top of leftovers to remedy this.

### Customize Toppings as You Wish

Keep it simple or let your creativity flow! I highly suggest adding a dollop of sour cream and a squeeze of fresh lime juice. You can also incorporate a spoonful of salsa or a few dashes of hot sauce, sliced avocado or guacamole, and chopped fresh cilantro.

## Serving Migas

These migas provide protein, vegetables, and carbs all in one bowl, so you might consider it a complete meal on its own.

**You can also create migas tacos** using this recipe—just warm up small corn or flour tortillas, fill them with the migas mixture, and add a couple of toppings.

If you’re on the lookout for accompaniments to pair with migas, consider these selections for a complete spread:

## More Egg-Centric Mexican Recipes

I adore the tastes of Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine with eggs any time of the day! Here are a few favorites from my [Mexican-inspired category](https://cookieandkate.com/category/vegetarian-mexican-recipes/):

## Tex-Mex Migas

This Tex-Mex migas recipe features cheesy scrambled eggs blended with crumbled tortilla chips, sautéed peppers and onions, along with toppings of your choice! Savor a taste of Austin, Texas, with these delightful homemade migas. This recipe yields 4 servings (or 8 to 12 migas tacos).

### Ingredients

– Scrambled eggs
– Pepper blend
– Optional toppings (choose as you like)

### Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine the eggs, cream, salt, and a few twists of freshly ground black pepper. Use a small whisk or fork to blend the eggs until they appear uniformly yellow. Set the eggs aside for later.
2. Sauté the peppers and onions: Heat the olive oil in a large stainless steel skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, jalapeño (if using), cumin, and salt. Cook, stirring frequently, until the onions become translucent and the peppers are soft, roughly 5 to 7 minutes.
3. Move the peppers to a bowl. Allow the skillet to cool for a few minutes, then wash it before proceeding (or use another large skillet).
4. Return

How to Prepare a Traditional Gimlet Cocktail

The gimlet is a timeless cocktail that truly merits more recognition! Crafted with gin, lime juice, and sweetened with simple syrup, it belongs to the sour category of cocktails. Reserve the intricate cocktails with obscure ingredients for upscale bars—enjoying a straightforward, citrusy, not overly sweet cocktail at home is one of life’s genuine delights.

The gimlet exudes a light and vibrant essence, akin to a more relaxed iteration of a martini that you can leisurely enjoy on a porch. I relish a gimlet during spring or summer—they’re refreshing and just perfect. If you take pleasure in ordering a quality gin cocktail or a margarita made with genuine lime juice, you will adore a homemade gimlet.

Gimlet Ingredients

Gimlets are shaken concoctions comprising three straightforward components: gin, fresh lime juice, and simple syrup. When I worked as a bartender after college, we prepared gimlets with Rose’s sweetened lime juice, which tastes syrupy and synthetic. A blend of fresh lime and simple syrup is vastly superior.

Certain bartenders maintain that gimlets should be made with homemade lime cordials, but I believe a proper lime twist garnish is all you require. We can all agree that gimlets must be shaken, not stirred. They’re best served ice-cold, which is why my instructions recommend chilling the glass beforehand.

The Best Gin for Gimlets

Plymouth gin is the classic selection for a gimlet, and it’s an excellent one. If you’re ever put off by the intensity of juniper flavor in London dry gin like Tanqueray, you’ll appreciate having Plymouth gin in your bar. It’s less dry and more balanced.

I also enjoy using Hendrick’s gin in my gimlets. Its distinctive notes of cucumber and rose petals blend beautifully with the fresh lime, which is why I chose Hendrick’s for these images.

Feel free to use London dry gin in your gimlet with good results, if that’s available at home. Beefeater or Fords are solid choices.

Gimlet Variations

Now we’re getting exciting! Gimlets adapt wonderfully to fresh enhancements. You can discover a few variations on my blog already. Check out my Basil Gimlet, Cucumber Elderflower Gimlet, and Cucumber Mint Gimlet.

Here are some variations to experiment with. You can combine them freely for fantastic outcomes.

Fresh basil: Consider adding 8 medium basil leaves to your cocktail shaker.

Fresh mint: Incorporate up to 10 fresh mint leaves into your shaker. This creation is known as a Southside cocktail.

Cucumber: Include one 2-inch slice of peeled cucumber, halved and quartered. This variant is termed an Eastside cocktail.

Elderflower liqueur: Substitute St-Germain elderflower for the simple syrup to impart a subtle floral essence. This variation is referred to as the “French Gimlet.” St-Germain is less sweet than simple syrup, so you’ll want to use just over 1 ounce of St-Germain to maintain the sweetness balance.

Honey simple syrup: For richer flavors, replace the quantity of regular simple syrup with honey simple syrup. Opt for a light-colored honey, such as clover or orange blossom, for delightful floral nuances. This version brings to mind the Bee’s Knees, a similar cocktail featuring gin, lemon in place of lime, and honey simple syrup.

More Cocktails to Try

More Classic Gin Cocktails

I enjoy a fine gin cocktail. Here are a few more to explore:

More Citrusy Cocktails

These cocktails originate from the sour family, similar to the gimlet:

Please share how your gimlet turns out in the comments. I love hearing from you and hope the gimlets are a success at your next dinner gathering.

Gimlet Cocktail

The gimlet cocktail is a delightful mix of gin, fresh lime juice, and simple syrup, garnished with a twist of lime. Recipe yields 1 serving; you can prepare up to 3 in a standard cocktail shaker simultaneously.

Instructions:

1. Chill your coupe glass by filling it to the brim with ice and water. Set it aside while you prepare the cocktail.
2. Next, fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add the gin, lime juice, and simple syrup. Securely fasten the lid and shake the mixture for about 20 seconds, or until the outside of the shaker is completely ice cold.
3. Discard the ice water from your glass and gently shake out any excess water droplets. Strain the mixture into your prepared glass. Lightly twist the lime peel over the drink to release the oils, then softly draw it over the rim of the glass before dropping it in. Savor.

Notes:

*To create simple syrup: Combine equal parts sugar (or honey) and water in a small saucepan or in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat over medium heat or in 30-second increments in the microwave, stirring occasionally.

“Classic French Cherry Clafoutis Treat”

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21 Tasty Treats Ideal for Summer

**Charming Summer Sweets to Savor the Season**

What could be more refreshing than a chilly or fruity dessert on a warm summer day? Not much! Here’s a selection of my top summer dessert recipes, featuring classics like French clafoutis and exciting surprise treats such as pineapple mint popsicles.

These sweets are all fresh and straightforward to prepare, guaranteed to please a gathering or enhance your dinner table. Many include fresh berries and peaches, encompassing fruity crisps, easy cakes, and frozen yogurt. Some recipes are enhanced by a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a swirl of whipped cream.

The days are extended, and the temperatures are inviting. Choose a favorite below, and let’s rejoice in the season. Enjoy!

1. **Clafoutis**
This clafoutis recipe is simply unmatched! You can create it with berries (my preferred choice), cherries (my daughter’s preferred), or any fruity variations listed in the post. Recipe yields one 10-inch clafoutis, sufficient for 8 slices.

2. **Lemon Posset**
Lemon posset is a rich, citrusy sweet treat—the ideal small indulgence. It provides a luscious texture and a well-balanced lemon taste that perfectly straddles the line between tart and sweet. Posset is incredibly simple to whip up! Allow 3 hours for chilling. Recipe yields 8 to 9 petite (2-ounce) servings.

3. **Gluten-Free Almond Cake with Berries on Top**
This delectable gluten-free almond cake recipe is easy to prepare and naturally sweet. Garnish it with yogurt and fresh berries for a cake worthy of any celebration! Recipe yields one 9-inch cake, enough for 8 slices.

4. **Peach Crisp (Gluten-Free)**
This healthier peach crisp boasts succulent summer peaches and a delightful oat and almond topping, which is gluten-free. Refer to recipe notes for dietary adjustments. Recipe yields 6 to 8 servings.

5. **Thumbprint Cookies**
These thumbprint cookies deliver classic shortbread flavor with stunning jam fillings. Almond flour allows them to be gluten-free and extra tasty! Recipe yields 22 to 24 small cookies.

6. **Simple Blueberry Cake**
Try this straightforward blueberry cake recipe! This blueberry cake is soft and delicious, packed with blueberries, and not overly sweet. It’s naturally sweetened and whole grain, as stated (check recipe notes for alternative flour options). Recipe yields one 9-inch round cake, enough for 8 slices.

7. **Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp**
This easy crisp recipe is overflowing with sweet, juicy strawberries and tangy rhubarb. Made with honey, oats, and yogurt, this crisp is healthier than many others. That said, do be sure to serve it with vanilla ice cream for dessert (or yogurt for breakfast)!

8. **Easy Pineapple Mint Popsicles**
Want a refreshing summer snack? Create these effortless pineapple-mint popsicles! You’ll need just two ingredients to whip up these all-natural ice pops. Popsicle molds vary in size; this recipe yields a total of 16 ounces, so adjust if needed.

9. **Mixed Berry Crisp (Gluten Free)**
Whip up this delightful berry crisp using any combination of strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries. It’s the ideal simple and fruity summer dessert. Recipe yields one 9-inch crisp, about 8 servings.

10. **Pots de Crème**
This foolproof pots de crème recipe comes together swiftly in the blender and is delicious. Make it for dessert, and freeze any leftovers! Yields 36 ounces, sufficient for anywhere from 36 petite 1-ounce servings to 9 generous 4-ounce servings.

11. **Lemony Cheesecake Tart with Pistachio Crust**
This cheesecake tart recipe is outstanding! It’s straightforward to prepare and tastes gourmet. The homemade pistachio-oat crust is gluten-free. Recipe yields one 9-inch tart, adequate for 8 medium slices.

12. **Easy Fruit Compote**
Discover how to prepare fruit compote with this simple recipe! You can use fresh or frozen fruit. It’s delectable on ice cream, yogurt, toast, pancakes, waffles, and more! Recipe yields around 2 cups compote.

13. **No-Bake Greek Yogurt Tart**
This no-bake Greek yogurt tart recipe appears impressive but is very easy to make and nutritious as well! I topped mine with raspberries and strawberries, but feel free to use any fresh fruit of your choice. Recipe yields one 9-inch tart (6 slices).

14. **Blueberry Almond Crisp**
This remarkable blueberry crisp recipe is the ultimate summer dessert! It’s simple to prepare with blueberries, maple syrup, lemon, oats, and almonds. It’s gluten-free, too! Recipe yields 6 to 8 servings (a generous amount!).

How to Prepare Tasty Gluten-Free Pancakes

Pancake enthusiasts, this recipe has been created just for you, regardless of whether you are gluten-free! This simple recipe requires one nutritious flour—oat flour—along with staple ingredients such as Greek yogurt, maple syrup, butter, and eggs. (If you don’t have oat flour available, you can easily prepare your own by blending old-fashioned or quick-cooking oats in a food processor or blender.)

These delightful pancakes are light and tasty, featuring a gentle oatmeal essence. The yogurt adds a slight tang reminiscent of buttermilk, plus a boost of protein, and the maple syrup brings a richer flavor than regular sugar.

You could definitely argue that these pancakes are a healthier alternative to your typical stack of pancakes, especially when you opt for nutritious toppings to complement them. Most importantly, they make a fun indulgence to prepare on weekends, and they reheat wonderfully for quick breakfasts during the week.

Oat Flour Pancake Tips

Crafting pancakes is an art! These pointers will assist you in making your initial batch.

Allow the batter to rest for ten minutes. This gives the oat flour time to soak up some moisture, resulting in pancakes that are fluffy and light.

Ensure your batter has the appropriate texture. It should not be overly runny or so thick that stirring becomes difficult. The right consistency is achieved when you can pour some batter into a pan, creating a nice round shape without needing to assist it in spreading. If necessary, add up to 1/4 cup of milk to thin it out.

Gently grease your griddle or skillet with oil or butter. I prefer using avocado oil for cooking pancakes due to its high smoke point and neutral taste (butter tends to burn more quickly). Regardless of what you choose, make sure to remove any excess with a paper towel to prevent smoking.

Always start by cooking just one pancake first. After you’ve practiced with one pancake and verified that your skillet is adequately preheated, you can proceed to make more simultaneously. Leave a couple of inches between each pancake for easier flipping.

The pancakes are ready to be flipped when about 1/2-inch of the edges have transitioned from glossy to matte. Don’t expect to see bubbles forming around the edges for this particular recipe. The underside should be a lovely golden color at this stage. If in doubt, it’s wiser to wait a bit longer than risk ending up with a doughy disaster.

As you continue, reduce the heat gradually. The skillet will become hotter over time. If your pancakes are burning on the outside before being cooked through, your skillet is too hot. Lower the temperature slightly after every few pancakes.

Pancake Serving Suggestions

These pancakes are delicious with both traditional and healthier toppings. Here’s a selection of toppings or sides that you might like to pair with your pancakes.

More Gluten-Free Pancake Recipes

I enjoy making pancakes using wholesome gluten-free flours like oat flour, almond flour, and buckwheat flour. Here are six additional pancake recipes for you to savor:

Please share how your pancakes turn out in the comments. I value your input and always love hearing from you.

Gluten-Free Pancakes

This gluten-free pancake recipe utilizes oat flour and creates pancakes that are light, golden, and delightful. They are simple to prepare with fundamental ingredients. The recipe yields about 10 pancakes.

Instructions:

1. In a small mixing bowl, combine the yogurt, butter, and maple syrup. Crack in the eggs and whisk until well blended.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together the oat flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Use a large spoon to stir until everything is thoroughly combined.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredient bowl. Stir just until everything is mixed (avoid overmixing, as it will deflate the air bubbles that keep these pancakes airy). If you plan to include any mix-ins, gently fold them in now.
4. Allow the batter to rest for 10 minutes to thicken. In the last minute or two, heat a large stainless steel or nonstick skillet over medium-low heat. (Alternatively, preheat an electric griddle to 325 degrees Fahrenheit).
5. Once the pan is hot enough that a drop of water sizzles on it, lightly grease it, removing any surplus with a paper towel. Pour ¼ cup of batter onto the pan. Allow the pancake to cook for around 3 to 4 minutes, until the edges appear more matte than shiny and the bottom is golden. (If the batter is too thick and requires assistance to spread, thin it with milk as needed.)
6. After the underside is adequately cooked, flip it with a spatula and cook for another 90 seconds or so, until both sides are golden brown. You may need to lower the heat at this stage. Continue with the remaining pancakes, greasing the pan as necessary.

How to Prepare Tasty Blueberry Scones

Meet my beloved scone recipe! These scrumptious scones boast a craggy texture and are lightly crisp at the edges, while being exquisitely tender and filled with plump blueberries inside. Lemon zest and zesty Greek yogurt elevate the flavor profile.

These tasty blueberry scones make for an ideal breakfast indulgence that’s sweet without being overly so. A light dusting of crunchy raw sugar on top gives them an added special touch.

Serve them during a special celebration, such as Easter or Mother’s Day brunch, or use them as an enjoyable afternoon baking activity. I’m also thrilled to provide a mini scone option, which are half the size of standard bakery scones. They’re absolutely adorable.

If you’re seeking a nutritious blueberry scone recipe that maintains all the flavor and texture you desire in a scone, look no further. These delightful scones require only 1/4 cup of sugar. They are healthier than most, as they can be prepared with whole wheat flour, providing a bit more texture (you may also opt for all-purpose flour if it’s what you have available).

Opt for white whole wheat flour if you want the scones to taste and appear like traditional scones, as I did for these images. Greek yogurt adds a bonus of extra protein, which is always appreciated. Interestingly, these scones are egg-free, making them a great substitute for muffins if you’re serving someone with an egg allergy.

Blueberry Scone Tips

If you’re a novice at making scones, I assure you that you can accomplish it. No special equipment is necessary (a pastry cutter is handy, but you can also use a cheese grater).

This post includes detailed instructions within the recipe at the end, along with step-by-step images and a video so you can feel assured during each stage. Your scones will be ready in about 35 minutes!

Correctly measure your flour.

You can measure your flour using either a scale or measuring cups. If employing measuring cups, use the spoon-and-swoop technique: fluff the flour with a large spoon, then add spoonfuls to your measuring cup, leveling off the top with a knife. Scooping flour directly into the cups may result in too much, leading to a dense scone.

Utilize fresh baking powder.

Baking powder diminishes in effectiveness over time. It is the only leavening agent in this recipe, so we need it to function! Verify the box to ensure it hasn’t lapsed its expiration date. Once opened, it generally lasts for 6 to 12 months. If unsure, pour a teaspoon into a heat-safe bowl and add a splash of boiling water—it should bubble up right away.

Avoid overmixing.

Overmixing the dough will activate the gluten excessively, resulting in tough scones. Refer to the image below—the dough will appear crumbly until you gently knead it together.

Incorporate fresh or frozen berries.

I love to use fresh berries when they’re in season, typically from April to October in the United States. Smaller blueberries, such as wild blueberries, will distribute more evenly throughout the scones, although any size works well. If using frozen berries, toss them with a teaspoon of flour beforehand to prevent the juices from streaking the dough.

More Blueberry Treats to Explore

Nutritious blueberry treats are my forte, and here are some of the most favored recipes on Cookie and Kate:

Please let me know how your scones turn out in the comments! I enjoy hearing from you and hope this becomes your go-to scone recipe, as well.

Blueberry Scones

These blueberry scones are simply the best! They’re delightfully tender, packed with fresh blueberries, and lightly topped with crunchy sugar. The recipe yields 8 standard scones or 16 mini scones.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and line a large, rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until blended.
3. In a small bowl, mix the sugar and lemon zest. Use your fingers to rub the zest into the sugar (this enhances the lemon flavor). Then, add this mixture to the dry ingredients and whisk to combine.
4. Cut the butter into ¼-inch thick slices and drop them into the dry mixture, stirring occasionally so the butter doesn’t stick together. If using a pastry cutter, cut the butter into the flour until it resembles pea-sized pieces or smaller. If you lack a pastry cutter, grate the butter using the large holes of a cheese grater and incorporate it into the flour, stirring as you grate to prevent clumping.
5. Fold in the blueberries and gently mix to combine. (You can use frozen blueberries; there’s no need to thaw them, but stir

Velvety Thai-Style Peanut Sauce Recipe

This peanut dressing resembles peanut sauce, but it’s crafted for salads. It’s rich, bold, and nutty. It definitely stands out! This dressing goes perfectly with Thai ingredients such as bell pepper, carrots, cabbage, mango, and more—you’ll discover a list of ideas below.

Creating this salad dressing is straightforward using basic ingredients. You probably already have them in your kitchen. You’ll need smooth peanut butter (the creamier, the better), lime juice, tamari or soy sauce, maple syrup or honey, fresh garlic, and red pepper flakes (for some heat, if desired). That’s all!

Peanut Dressing Salad Ideas

If you enjoy fresh spring rolls, you can create a deconstructed spring roll bowl and drizzle it with this peanut dressing. If you’d rather follow a recipe, check out my Thai Mango Salad with Peanut Dressing or Crunchy Thai Peanut & Quinoa Salad.

This dressing can enhance both simple and intricate salads. Here’s a comprehensive list of compatible salad ingredients. You can mix and match without hesitation:

– Avocado
– Bell pepper
– Cabbage: purple, green, or coleslaw mix
– Carrot
– Cilantro or mint
– Cucumber
– Edamame
– Green onion
– Lettuce: opt for milder varieties like Bibb, butter, or little gem
– Mango
– Quinoa
– Peanuts
– Snow peas or sugar snap peas
– Soba noodles or rice noodles

Additional Homemade Salad Dressings

If you love this dressing, consider trying these salad dressings next:

Please share how you use your peanut dressing in the comments. I enjoy hearing from you and value your input!

Peanut Dressing

This delectable peanut dressing complements Thai flavors beautifully. It’s so creamy and tasty that a small amount is sufficient. The recipe yields a little under ⅔ cup—double it if necessary.

Instructions:

1. To make the dressing, mix the peanut butter, tamari, maple syrup, garlic, and optional red pepper flakes (everything except the lime juice) in a liquid measuring cup or small bowl. Use a small whisk or fork to combine until smooth.
2. Whisk in about half of the lime juice until creamy, then incorporate the remainder. Keep whisking until the mixture is fully combined and creamy.
3. Taste it, and if it’s too tart, add another teaspoon or so of maple syrup. Serve as desired. Any leftover dressing can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Notes:

– Peanut butter tip: Utilize ultra-creamy peanut butter for the richest texture. Some natural peanut butters can be gritty, based on the brand. My homemade peanut butter is incredibly creamy and would be ideal.
– Make it vegan: Choose maple syrup instead of honey.
– Make it gluten-free: Opt for certified gluten-free tamari instead of soy sauce, which contains wheat.

Nutrition

The information provided is an estimate generated by an online nutrition calculator. It should not be seen as a replacement for professional nutritionist guidance. See our full nutrition disclosure here.

Nutrient-Dense Lentil Salad with Fresh Produce and Herbs

This traditional lentil salad recipe showcases some of my preferred Mediterranean tastes, featuring cherry tomatoes, roasted red peppers, Kalamata olives, and an abundance of fresh parsley in a vibrant lemon dressing. The texture offers an enticing blend of tender, crisp, and chewy. If you’re a fan of lentils and tabbouleh salad, you’ll love this recipe.

I enjoy keeping this robust lentil salad in the refrigerator for a quick meal, nutritious side dish, or convenient snack. Bring it along to your gatherings and picnics for everyone to appreciate—this recipe is dairy-free, vegan, gluten-free, egg-free, and nut-free! I’m sure your friends will request the recipe.

Lentil Salad Serving Suggestions

This lentil salad can complement any meal with a nutritious burst of flavor, fiber, and plant-based protein. Here are a few recipes to pair it with:

You can elevate your servings by mixing in fresh leafy greens, a splash of olive oil, and an additional squeeze of lemon juice. Topping it with crumbled feta or goat cheese is also delightful.

Lentil Options

This salad is intended for standard brownish-green lentils, the most prevalent and budget-friendly variety. If you adhere to the recipe’s instructions, they’ll be perfectly cooked—tender, but not mushy. Here are some alternate choices.

Substitute with pre-cooked lentils

You’ll require three cups, which is around two 15-ounce cans.

Black beluga lentils

These lentils have an appealing dark hue. They’re smaller and slightly firmer in texture. If you opt for this variety, set the timer for 16 minutes.

French (Puy) green lentils

Also known as Le Puy lentils, these dark green lentils are somewhat firmer in texture as well. Set the timer for 18 minutes for these.

Note: Red lentils are not recommended for this recipe as they tend to be too mushy.

More Lentil Salads to Enjoy

If you appreciate this traditional lentil salad, take a look at these exciting alternatives. Here are additional bean salad recipes available on the blog.

Please share how your lentil salad turns out in the comments! I love receiving your feedback and hope this becomes a beloved recipe in your kitchen.

Lentil Salad

This traditional lentil salad recipe is an ideal side dish! It’s simple to prepare with basic ingredients like cherry tomatoes, lemon, and parsley. The recipe yields about 5 cups of salad, enough for 4 substantial servings.

Instructions:

1. Fill a medium-to-large saucepan with water, allowing several inches of space at the top. Bring it to a boil over high heat.
2. In the meantime, sift through your lentils for any debris. Rinse your lentils under running water until the water is clear. Set aside.
3. Once the water is boiling, add the rinsed lentils and ½ teaspoon of salt. Set the timer for 13 minutes. Lower the heat as needed to prevent overflow while maintaining a lively simmer. After the timer goes off, use a fork to scoop out several lentils to test for doneness (be careful, they’re hot). Your lentils are done when they are pleasantly tender throughout (not mushy or falling apart) and taste nicely earthy (undercooked lentils can have a somewhat metallic taste). If they’re not fully cooked, retest every 1 to 2 minutes until they are. Once cooked, strain off all excess water immediately. Pour the lentils back into your pot to cool.
4. Meanwhile, in a medium serving bowl, mix all remaining ingredients (the chopped peppers, tomatoes, olives, parsley, green onions, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and several twists of black pepper).
5. When the lentils are mostly cool, add them to the bowl and stir until the salad is well integrated. Adjust seasoning with the remaining ¼ teaspoon salt (more if desired) and pepper, to taste. Leftovers can be stored up to 5 days, covered in the refrigerator.

Notes:

Lentil options: If you prefer to use pre-cooked lentils, you will need 3 cups. This salad is designed for “standard” lentils, which are brownish-green and nicely tender when cooked. Other options include black beluga lentils (set the timer for 16 minutes) or French green lentils (set the timer for 18 minutes). Avoid red lentils in this recipe—they are too mushy.

Pesto Sauce Made with Arugula

Arugula pesto presents a charming alternative to the traditional basil pesto, imparting a vibrant and zesty flavor profile. This adaptable sauce can enhance numerous dishes, from pasta to sandwiches. Here’s a guide to prepare it along with some usage ideas.

**Why Opt for Arugula Pesto?**
Arugula pesto offers an engaging twist to classic pesto. It is typically more budget-friendly since arugula is commonly easier to source than fresh basil, especially throughout the year. Moreover, arugula pesto resists browning faster than basil pesto, negating the necessity for blanching.

**Ingredients Required:**
– Fresh arugula
– Nuts (walnuts, pecans, almonds, or pepitas)
– Freshly grated Parmesan
– Garlic
– Lemon juice
– Salt
– Extra-virgin olive oil

**Steps for Preparation:**
1. In a skillet over medium heat, toast the nuts until they become fragrant, roughly 3-5 minutes. Allow them to cool.
2. In a food processor, mix the arugula, Parmesan, garlic, lemon juice, and salt. While processing, drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture is mostly smooth.
3. Taste and modify with additional lemon juice or salt if necessary. Store in the fridge for up to a week or freeze for as long as six months.

**Serving Ideas:**
Arugula pesto is ideal for pasta, pizza, roasted vegetables, and sandwiches. It also works wonderfully when combined with chickpeas and crumbled feta for a quick, delicious dish.

**Advice for Tossing with Pasta:**
Before draining, keep some of the pasta cooking water. Off the heat, combine the pasta with pesto and small amounts of the reserved water until you reach the desired consistency.

**Variations:**
– To create a dairy-free or vegan option, leave out the Parmesan or opt for vegan Parmesan.
– For a nut-free alternative, replace nuts with pepitas or hemp hearts.

Arugula pesto is a straightforward, tasty, and versatile sauce that can elevate a multitude of meals. Enjoy exploring its possibilities in your culinary adventures!

April Culinary Handbook: Seasonal Dishes and Components

**Spring Has Arrived, Daffodils and All, and I’m Absolutely Excited About It**

As the winter chill diminishes, the onset of spring introduces a revitalized feeling of enthusiasm and vigor. The lively blossoms of daffodils mark the commencement of a season brimming with warmth and vibrancy. After experiencing a particularly frigid and gloomy winter, the chance to relish leisurely strolls in the refreshing spring air is a delightful transformation. The season not only invigorates our souls but also presents a plethora of fresh produce for our enjoyment.

April is a month bursting with culinary pleasures, showcasing a range of seasonal ingredients like asparagus, beets, and peas. These components not only enhance the taste and healthiness of our dishes but also stimulate creativity in the kitchen. Below is a compilation of seasonal produce along with some enticing recipes to experiment with:

**Asparagus**
– *Spring Veggie Stir-Fry*: This gluten-free and vegan stir-fry is a flexible dish that can incorporate various vegetables, delivering a flavor explosion in each mouthful.

**Avocado**
– *Veggie Breakfast Sandwich*: A potentially gluten-free choice that melds the freshness of onion and arugula with a unique egg preparation technique, ideal for a breakfast treat.

**Beets**
– *Colorful Beet Salad with Carrot, Quinoa & Spinach*: This gluten-free and vegan salad is a lively and nutritious dish, elevated with toasted almond flakes and pumpkin seeds.

**Broccoli**
– *Perfect Roasted Broccoli*: A straightforward yet scrumptious gluten-free and vegan recipe that showcases the authentic flavors of broccoli.

**Brussels Sprouts**
– *Coconut Rice with Brussels Sprouts*: Highlighted in The Love and Lemons Cookbook, this gluten-free and vegan dish presents a delightful blend of tastes.

**Cabbage**
– *Simple Seedy Slaw*: A gluten-free and vegan coleslaw that is quick to whip up and bursting with flavor, even with just cabbage.

**Cauliflower**
– *Creamy Roasted Cauliflower Soup*: This gluten-free and easily vegan soup is a cozy and fulfilling meal, great for a light lunch.

**Citrus Fruits**
– *Honey Lemon Curd*: A gluten-free indulgence that captures the essence of citrus fruits, presenting a sweet and tart flavor.

**Greens**
– *Arugula, Dried Cherry and Wild Rice Salad*: A gluten-free and easily vegan salad that fuses the peppery flavor of arugula with the sweetness of dried cherries.

**Mushrooms**
– *Arugula and Cremini Quiche*: This gluten-free quiche with an almond meal crust is a savory treat that even carnivores will appreciate.

**Peas**
– *Lemony Green Pasta with Peas & Ricotta*: An easily gluten-free and vegan pasta dish that brings a hint of spring to your dining experience.

**Radishes**
– *Lemony Lentil and Chickpea Salad with Radish and Herbs*: A gluten-free and easily vegan salad that provides a refreshing and tangy taste.

**Sweet Potatoes**
– *Mediterranean Roasted Sweet Potato & Farro Salad*: An easily vegan salad that pairs the sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the earthy flavor of farro.

For further inspiration, delve into a variety of spring recipes and uncover new methods to savor the season’s bounty. Whether you’re in search of pre-prepared breakfast options, lunch recipes that are portable, or easy weeknight dinners, there’s something for everyone. Embrace the delight of spring and let the lively tastes of the season elevate your culinary experiences.