Source: pinchofyum.com

Crispy Crushed Potato Salad Recipe

### Smashed Potato Salad: The Ideal Summer Delight

Tangy salad, crunchy potatoes, and smooth ranch – this smashed potato salad is the quintessential summer meal that merges enjoyable textures and tastes. It’s a revitalizing take on standard potato salad, making it an excellent selection for picnics, barbecues, or laid-back lunches.

#### Why This Salad Is Unique

For those who cherish the traditional Midwestern trio of a shredded salad, crispy fries, and decadent ranch dressing, this smashed potato salad delivers on all fronts. In contrast to standard picnic-style potato salads, this variation adopts a more lettuce-forward style, maintaining the crunchy texture of the potatoes while providing a delightful crunch with every mouthful.

The salad is not just zesty and striking but also hearty yet light, making it an enjoyable choice for summer dining. Adding tuna can enhance the dish for dinner, giving an extra protein boost, but the original blend of tangy salad, crispy potatoes, and smooth ranch truly shines.

#### Ingredients

**Crispy Smashed Potatoes**
– Small potatoes (Yukon Gold or red varieties are excellent)

**Salad**
– Romaine lettuce
– Pickles
– Red onions

**Dressing**
– Homemade ranch dressing (or pre-packaged)

#### Instructions

1. **Cook the Potatoes**: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the potatoes and cook until tender (15-25 minutes, based on size).

2. **Prepare the Veggies**: While the potatoes are boiling, dice the romaine, pickles, and onions.

3. **Make the Dressing**: Whisk together all ingredients for the ranch dressing while the potatoes are cooking.

4. **Smash the Potatoes**: Once the potatoes are done and cool enough to handle, use the back of a flat drinking glass to flatten each potato to about 1/4 to 1/8 inch thick.

5. **Roast the Potatoes**: Place the smashed potatoes in a single layer in an air fryer basket. Spray with avocado oil, season, and air fry at 375°F for around 15 minutes until golden and crisp. (Alternatively, bake in the oven at 375°F for 30-45 minutes.)

6. **Serve**: Combine the romaine, pickles, and onions with the dressing. Fold in half of the crispy potatoes and set aside the remaining half to top the salad. Savor the crunchy, fresh, and creamy flavors together!

#### Notes

– The potatoes can also be baked for a crunchier texture.
– This salad is easily adaptable with extra ingredients such as cherry tomatoes or avocado.

### Conclusion

Smashed potato salad is a delightful summer dish that blends the finest crispy, creamy, and tangy flavors. Whether enjoyed as a side or a main course, it’s guaranteed to be a favorite at any gathering. Relish this refreshing salad that brings happiness with every bite!

Thai Shrimp Curry Garnished with Crunchy Shallots

### Thai Shrimp Curry with Delicious Shallot Crisps

This shrimp curry is the dish of my fantasies! With amazing taste, just a handful of basic ingredients, and simple enough for a weeknight, it’s a meal that can swiftly become a regular in your kitchen.

#### Reasons I Adore This Recipe

One of the remarkable aspects of this shrimp curry is the inclusion of shallot crisps. These crunchy garnishes add a charming texture and flavor that enhances the dish. Fried shallots are a cherished topping in Southeast Asian cuisine, and by adding panko, you can achieve an even crunchier effect. This distinctive spin makes the curry not only delectable but also visually stunning.

When I serve this dish, I often pair the shrimp curry with rice, providing a customizable meal option. For children, I offer plain shrimp and steamed veggies, ensuring everyone has something they enjoy without changing the main components.

#### Ingredients

**For the Shrimp Curry:**
– Thai Kitchen red curry paste
– Coconut milk
– Shrimp
– Garlic
– Ginger
– Vegetables (like sweet red peppers and green beans)

**For the Shallot Crisps:**
– Shallots
– Panko breadcrumbs
– Fresh herbs (optional)
– Salt

#### Instructions

1. **Prepare Shallot Crisps (Optional):** Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add sliced shallots and sauté until golden, around 5-10 minutes. Stir in panko and cook until the mixture is golden. Transfer to a bowl and mix with herbs and a pinch of salt.

2. **Begin the Curry:** Clean the skillet and set it back on medium heat. Add oil, curry paste, garlic, ginger, and vegetables. Cook for a few minutes, then pour in coconut milk and simmer until the sauce thickens and the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.

3. **Incorporate Shrimp:** Place shrimp on top of the curry. They will steam in the sauce. After 2-3 minutes, flip them to ensure even cooking. They are ready when they curl and turn opaque.

4. **Season:** Stir in fish sauce and brown sugar. Adjust seasoning to taste, adding more spice or salt if desired.

5. **Serve:** Ladle the curry over rice and top with shallot crisps for an added crunch.

#### Notes

– **Vegetable Alternatives:** Feel free to swap or add other vegetables like spinach or frozen mixed veggies, adjusting cooking times as necessary.
– **Flavor Boosts:** Consider adding lemongrass or lime for an extra flavor kick.

#### Conclusion

This Thai shrimp curry with shallot crisps is not merely a meal; it’s a culinary experience. The blend of creamy curry, tender shrimp, and crunchy toppings makes it a dish that is guaranteed to impress. Savor this delightful recipe that is ideal for any weeknight supper!

Informational Manual for Preparing Chicken Tenders in an Air Fryer

### Air Fryer Chicken Tenders: A Family Classic

These air fryer chicken tenders have become a cherished dish in plenty of homes, mine included. They are crisp, warm, and golden, making them an ideal meal choice, particularly when served with your preferred dipping sauces.

#### Why We Adore These Chicken Tenders

In our household, chicken tenders are a surefire success. The meal recipe is straightforward yet satisfying:

– A plate of hot, crispy, impeccably breaded chicken tenders
– A variety of favorite sauces for dipping
– A side of fresh vegetables, whether it’s an exciting salad, frozen mixed veggies, or a platter of raw vegetables

Some popular sauce options include honey mustard, gochujang sauce, yum yum sauce, ranch, and ketchup. Lately, my husband has been combining ranch with hot sauce, which has turned out to be a delectable mix.

#### Simplified Preparation

Although the dredging and dipping stage can appear cumbersome, using quality prep trays has made it significantly more enjoyable. These trays not only optimize the breading process but also act as storage for any extra chicken tenders.

Regarding leftovers, these tenders reheat wonderfully in the air fryer, regaining their crisp and golden appearance.

#### Recipe Summary

**Total Time:** 25 minutes
**Yield:** 6 servings (approximately 12 tenders)
**Cuisine:** American
**Method:** Air Fryer

#### Ingredients

– Chicken tenderloins
– All-purpose flour
– Ranch seasoning
– Milk
– Vinegar
– Eggs
– Hot sauce
– Breadcrumbs (preferably seasoned)
– Avocado oil spray

#### Instructions

1. **Prep Your Dipping Stations:**
– **Bowl 1:** Combine flour, salt, and ranch seasoning.
– **Bowl 2:** Mix milk and vinegar; let sit for 5 minutes to form buttermilk. Add eggs and hot sauce; whisk together.
– **Bowl 3:** Mix breadcrumbs with seasoning.

2. **Flatten Chicken Tenderloins:** Use the flat side of a knife to gently flatten each tenderloin.

3. **Batter Up:** Dip each tenderloin in flour, then in the buttermilk mixture, and finally coat with breadcrumbs. Set aside.

4. **Place in Air Fryer:** Arrange tenders in a single layer in the air fryer. Spray with avocado oil until lightly moistened.

5. **Cook and Serve:** Air fry at 400°F for 7-9 minutes, until golden brown and fully cooked. Serve with your chosen sauces.

#### Tips for Success

– **Seasonings:** If you choose not to use seasoning mixes, simply incorporate salt and freshly ground pepper into the flour and breadcrumb mixtures for added flavor.
– **Hot Sauce:** This element is optional and enhances flavor without adding spice.
– **Breadcrumbs:** Various types can be utilized, but Trader Joe’s or Progresso breadcrumbs are highly recommended for their texture and taste.

These air fryer chicken tenders are not just easy to prepare but also incredibly flavorful, making them an excellent option for family meals. Enjoy them alongside a variety of sauces and sides for a complete dish that everyone will appreciate!

Crispy Buffalo Tofu Accompanied by Caesar Salad

### Crispy Buffalo Tofu with Caesar Salad

This Buffalo Tofu dish offers a wonderful blend of tastes and textures, merging the zesty heat of buffalo sauce with the rich creaminess of a Caesar salad. It’s remarkably simple to prepare, needing only two key ingredients for the sauce and a quick air-fry for the tofu. This meal is ideal for a speedy dinner or a delightful finger food choice.

#### Why I Adore This Recipe

Buffalo tofu has established itself as a go-to in my kitchen, and I frequently end up making it several times each week. Its adaptability allows it to be savored alone as a snack or placed atop a robust salad. The mix of crispy tofu and a creamy kale Caesar salad results in a fulfilling dish that feels both luxurious and nutritious.

The charm of this recipe is found in its straightforwardness. There’s no necessity for intricate batters or breading, and cleaning up is effortless. The tofu is air-fried to reach a crunchy consistency, then combined with a quick sauce made from just hot sauce and butter. It’s a meal that’s not just easy to whip up, but also exceptionally tasty.

#### Ingredients

**For the Crispy Tofu:**
– Firm or extra-firm tofu

**For the Buffalo Sauce:**
– Hot sauce (your preference)
– Butter (or a plant-based alternative)

**For Serving:**
– Kale Caesar salad (store-bought or homemade)

#### Instructions

1. **Prepare the Tofu:** Take the tofu out of its packaging and drain the water. Wrap it in a clean dish towel or paper towels and gently press to remove excess moisture.

2. **Cut the Tofu:** Tear the tofu into bite-sized pieces.

3. **Season the Tofu:** Coat the tofu chunks with cornstarch, soy sauce, oil, paprika, and garlic powder until well-covered.

4. **Air Fry the Tofu:** Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Air fry the tofu for 8 minutes, shake or toss, then continue cooking for another 5-6 minutes until golden and crunchy.

5. **Make the Sauce:** In a small bowl, melt the butter and whisk it with the hot sauce. Toss the crispy tofu in the sauce to coat thoroughly.

6. **Serve:** Place the buffalo tofu over a bed of kale Caesar salad. Enjoy as is, or include your favorite dipping sauces on the side.

#### Tips and Variations

– **For Kids:** If the buffalo sauce is too hot for younger tastes, reserve some plain tofu pieces for dipping in ranch or ketchup.
– **Oven Baking:** If you prefer baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the tofu for about 20 minutes, turning halfway through.
– **Tofu Brands:** I suggest using extra-firm tofu for the best texture. Brands like Fountain of Health from Costco perform well, but any firm tofu will suffice.

#### Frequently Asked Questions

– **How spicy is this?** The buffalo sauce can have a kick, so think about leaving some tofu pieces plain for those who like subdued flavors.

– **Can I use chicken instead of tofu?** Yes, chicken can be used as a substitute. Modify the cooking time accordingly, and utilize the same seasoning mix.

– **What air fryer do you suggest?** I use the Ninja Air Fryer Pro XL, which is excellent for recipes like this because of its size and basket style.

This Buffalo Tofu is not only simple to create but also a favorite among crowds. Whether you’re indulging in it as a snack or part of a meal, it’s guaranteed to fulfill your cravings for something spicy and tasty.

Brandon’s Distinctive Egg Roll Taco Formula

### Egg Roll Tacos: A Tasty Blend of Tastes

Egg rolls and tacos are two cherished comfort foods that have captured the affection of countless fans. The creative fusion of these two meals offers a distinctive culinary adventure that is both simple to prepare and immensely satisfying. Featuring a traditional egg roll filling, crispy vegetables, soft tortillas, and a zesty gochujang sauce, egg roll tacos are an essential dish for anyone eager to elevate their meal routine.

#### Why Choose Egg Roll Tacos?

The idea of egg roll tacos is straightforward yet ingenious. It combines the flavorful filling of an egg roll—usually consisting of ground meat, cabbage, carrots, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger—with the practicality of a taco. The result is a meal that is not only delectable but also enjoyable to eat. The interplay of textures—from the crunchy outside of the taco to the soft filling—creates a delightful experience.

#### Fast and Simple Preparation

One of the greatest features of egg roll tacos is their quick and easy preparation. In only 20 minutes, you can have a tasty dish ready to enjoy. Here’s how to make them:

1. **Prepare the Filling**: Mix ground meat (like pork, chicken, or turkey) with soy sauce, chili crisp, garlic, ginger, and your selection of vegetables. Combining the ingredients by hand ensures thorough mixing.

2. **Distribute the Filling**: Take flour tortillas and spread the filling on one side. It’s practical to prepare all the tortillas before cooking them.

3. **Cook the Tacos**: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add oil. Place the tacos meat-side down in batches, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until browned. Flip them to crisp the other side for another minute.

4. **Garnish and Serve**: Once cooked, add fresh cabbage, cilantro, green onions, and your favorite sauces, especially the suggested gochujang sauce for a spicy boost. Fold the tacos in half and relish!

#### Ingredients

– **For the Filling**:
– Ground meat (pork, chicken, or turkey)
– Soy sauce
– Chili crisp
– Garlic
– Ginger
– Vegetables (cabbage, carrots, etc.)

– **For the Tacos**:
– Flour tortillas
– Fresh toppings (cabbage, cilantro, green onions)
– Gochujang sauce

#### Cooking Duration

– **Prep Duration**: 10 minutes
– **Cook Duration**: 10 minutes
– **Total Duration**: 20 minutes
– **Yield**: 4 servings (2 tacos each)

#### Conclusion

Egg roll tacos are a superb method to savor the tastes of an egg roll in an innovative and thrilling presentation. They are ideal for a quick dinner during the week or a lively gathering with friends. With their simple preparation and delightful flavor, these tacos are bound to become a favorite in your home. So gather your ingredients and prepare to enjoy this delightful fusion dish!

Burger Bowls With Signature Sauce and Ranch-Style Fries

### Burger Bowls with House Sauce and Ranch Fries

A burger served in a bowl! This scrumptious dish showcases ranch-seasoned fries adorned with succulent chunks of burger and all the trimmings, topped off with a splash of house sauce that elevates it to a new height. Ideal for families and get-togethers, burger bowls provide a playful and fulfilling twist on classic burgers.

#### Why This Recipe Appeals to Me

As a busy mom, identifying meals that satisfy everyone can pose a challenge. Burger bowls have turned into a preferred choice in our home for various reasons:

1. **Cooking Method**: Utilizing larger, juicier pieces of beef guarantees a fulfilling bite. This method, inspired by a friend, has revolutionized my burger experience.

2. **Ranch Fries**: Waffle fries are not only easy to eat with a fork but are also coated in ranch seasoning, making them delectably tasty.

3. **House Sauce**: This creamy, flavorful condiment imparts a delightful kick to the dish. If preparing it from scratch isn’t practical, a ready-made burger sauce performs just as well.

#### Ingredients

**For the Burger Bowls:**
– Ground beef
– Burger seasoning

**For the Ranch Fries:**
– Frozen waffle fries
– Butter
– Ranch seasoning

**For the House Sauce:**
– Mayonnaise
– Ketchup
– Pickles
– Seasoning (to taste)

#### Instructions

1. **Prepare the Ranch Fries**: Bake the fries as directed on the package. After cooking, mix them with melted butter and ranch seasoning to boost flavor.

2. **Make the House Sauce**: Combine mayonnaise, ketchup, and pickles in a bowl. Adjust seasoning according to taste, or opt for a store-bought version for ease.

3. **Cook the Beef**: Preheat a cast iron skillet over high heat without oil. Season one side of the ground beef with burger seasoning and place it in the hot pan, seasoned side down. Let it sear undisturbed for several minutes until a nice crust forms.

4. **Finish the Beef**: Once flipped, sprinkle the other side with seasoning. Break it into fork-sized pieces when browned, keeping it juicy.

5. **Assemble the Bowls**: Layer the ranch fries, chunks of beef, toppings of your choice (lettuce, tomatoes, cheese), and drizzle with house sauce.

#### Notes

– **Burger Seasoning**: Using a high-quality burger seasoning boosts the flavor. If you can’t find any, a straightforward mix of salt and pepper will do.
– **Cooking Technique**: The secret to juicy beef lies in high heat and minimal interference. Aim for a golden crust while ensuring the interior stays slightly pink for optimal juiciness.
– **Pan Choice**: While cast iron is preferred for its heat retention, non-stick pans can also work effectively.

#### Conclusion

These burger bowls are more than just a meal; they represent an experience that merges the finest aspects of burgers and fries in a playful, easy-to-eat presentation. Perfect for family dinners or relaxed gatherings, they are bound to become a favorite in your household. Relish the deliciousness of a burger in a bowl!