Category: Dinner

  • Air Fryer Frozen Shrimp

    Air Fryer Frozen Shrimp

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    Seafood lovers! Here is the EASIEST way to make crispy, breaded shrimp in the air fryer! Making air fryer frozen shrimp takes less than 10 minutes and turns out perfectly every time. The hardest part is choosing what dipping sauce to serve it with!

    This air fryer frozen shrimp is SO easy to make, and tastes absolutely incredible! I’m sure you’ve seen all of the hype about air fryers by now, but they’re truly worth the investment. They make cooking so easy! If you love shrimp as much as I do, you’ll have to try air fryer coconut shrimp and this juicy 10-minute shrimp next!

    Cooked, breaded shrimp served on a gray plate.

    Frozen Breaded Shrimp in the Air Fryer

    Cooking frozen breaded shrimp in an air fryer is so easy, it’s practically foolproof! All you need to do is preheat the air fryer, pop the shrimp in the basket, and let it do its magic. There’s no need to defrost the shrimp or add any oil, which makes it a hassle-free cooking experience. (Perfect for busy weeknights!) Plus, the air fryer cooks the shrimp evenly, ensuring that each piece comes out crispy and golden brown. It’s a no-brainer when you’re craving shrimp but want it in a snap. I know, I know, it seems too good to be true! Trust me though, this air fryer frozen shrimp is SO delicious, and definitely a recipe to keep in your back pocket.

    And the best part? The taste! The shrimp comes out perfectly seasoned and crunchy, just like you’d get at a restaurant. The breading stays crispy, and the shrimp itself is juicy and tender. (The power of air fryers!) You can dip the shrimp in cocktail sauce, tartar sauce, or your favorite sauce to add even more flavor. It’s hard to believe that something so easy to make can taste so good. So next time you’re looking for a quick and tasty meal, reach for frozen breaded shrimp and your trusty air fryer. It doesn’t disappoint! For more quick and easy air fryer recipes, check out this list here!

    Everything You’ll Need to Make It

    Let’s keep this ingredient list short and sweet. Feel free to add in any extra seasonings! I like to add a squeeze of lemon, but honestly frozen breaded shrimp is delicious as-is!

    • Breaded Frozen Shrimp: (Shrimp Butterfly) Pick up your favorite kind from the grocery store! I used 16 ounces worth.
    • Non-Stick Cooking Spray: To help keep your frozen shrimp from sticking to the bottom of your air fryer basket. It also helps to keep the shrimp crispy! You can use a little bit of cooking oil, butter, or shortening instead if you wish.
    • Squeeze of Lemon: (Optional) This is my favorite finishing touch! It adds a hint of zest that tastes amazing with the breaded shrimp.

    Making Frozen Breaded Shrimp in the Air Fryer

    This shrimp recipe is foolproof. Anyone can make it! Simply toss your frozen shrimp into the basket and then let your air fryer work its magic. It’s as easy as that, truly! Because this delicious, crispy shrimp is so easy to whip up, you’re going to want to make it all the time. It’s the perfect solution for when you’re craving some restaurant-quality seafood but don’t want to spend hours slaving away in the kitchen. Let’s get started!

    1. Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
    2. Add Shrimp to Basket: Add the frozen shrimp to the air fryer tray or basket in a single layer. Then spray with non-stick cooking spray if you want it crispy.
    3. Cook: Close the basket and then air fry for 8 minutes flipping the shrimp halfway through at the 4-minute mark.
    4. Enjoy: Serve with a squeeze of lemon and dipping sauce on the side!
    Frozen shrimp being added to the basket of an air fryer.

    Tips for Making Frozen Shrimp in the Air Fryer

    Here are extra tips to keep in mind as you cook your air fryer frozen breaded shrimp. This is one of my new favorite shrimp recipes. It honestly tastes like it came from a restaurant!

    Cooked shrimp in the bottom of an air fryer basket.

    Storing / Reheating

    As long as your shrimp is stored properly, it should stay good for a few days after you’ve made it!

    • In the Refrigerator: Store cooked shrimp in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
    • Reheating: To reheat your shrimp, I recommend using your air fryer so it keeps it nice and crisp. A few minutes at 375 degrees F should do the trick!

    A piece of shrimp being dipped into a creamy sauce.


    • Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.

    • Add the frozen shrimp to the air fryer tray or basket in a single layer. Spray with non-stick cooking spray if you want it crispy.

    • Close the basket and cook in the air fryer for 8 minutes flipping the shrimp halfway through at the 4-minute mark.

    • Serve with a squeeze of lemon and dipping sauce on the side!



    Serves:

    Serving3ouncesCalories386kcal (19%)Protein91g (182%)Fat2g (3%)Saturated Fat0.5g (3%)Polyunsaturated Fat1gMonounsaturated Fat0.4gTrans Fat0.02gCholesterol730mg (243%)Sodium540mg (23%)Potassium1197mg (34%)Calcium290mg (29%)Iron2mg (11%)

    All nutritional information is based on third party calculations and is only an estimate. Each recipe and nutritional value will vary depending on the brands you use, measuring methods and portion sizes per household.

    Course Appetizer, Dinner, lunch

    Cuisine Seafood

    Keyword air fryer breaded shrimp, air fryer frozen shrimp, frozen breaded shrimp in air fryer

  • Focaccia Pizza

    Focaccia Pizza

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    As if focaccia bread wasn’t good enough, now you can level it up with your favorite pizza toppings! Focaccia pizza is cheesy and flavorful, all on top of the most soft and dreamy crust!

    Switch up pizza night with this focaccia pizza and a few of my other favorite recipes: bubble pizza, pizza quesadillas, and Thai chicken flatbread pizza! They’re all super easy to make and SO delicious!

    Top-down view of focaccia pizza in the pan.

    Focaccia Pizza Recipe

    If you’re looking for a new way to enjoy pizza, try using focaccia bread as the base! It is SO amazing! The bread is soft and fluffy, but with a crispy crust that packs a punch of flavor. It’s perfect for all of your favorite toppings and sure to leave your family wanting more!

    Not only does focaccia pizza taste amazing, but it’s also super easy to throw together. Focaccia dough requires fewer ingredients and doesn’t require as much time to rise. Plus, you can make the dough in advance and freeze it to use later! So if you’re in the mood for a delicious and easy-to-make pizza, try using focaccia bread as the base. Your taste buds will thank you! The flavor and soft, pillowy texture is out of this world.

    Ingredients Needed

    Focaccia bread can be topped with all kinds of toppings. Anything from classic tomato sauce and mozzarella (this is what I made!) to creative combinations like feta crumbles, figs, and a drizzle of balsamic vinaigrette. So why settle for plain old pizza when you can indulge in the flavorful goodness of focaccia? Trust me, once you get a bite of the soft and fluffy crust, you won’t want pizza any other way! Note: all measurements can be found in the recipe card at the end of the post.

    Focaccia Bread

    • Warm Water: Activates the yeast and helps the flour to absorb all the flavor and moisture it needs.
    • Active Dry Yeast: The yeast that brings the dough to life! Without it, we wouldn’t have that fluffy, perfect texture that makes focaccia bread so irresistible.
    • Granulated Sugar: Just a pinch of sugar makes everything nice, especially for the yeast. It gives the yeast something to feed on and helps it grow, giving the focaccia its perfect rise.
    • Extra-Virgin Olive Oil: Gives focaccia its signature crispy crust, and also keeps it moist and flavorful.
    • Salt: Just a couple of tablespoons to keep your bread from tasting bland.
    • All-Purpose Flour: Gives focaccia its structure.
    • Italian Seasoning: When life gives you basil, oregano, and thyme, make Italian seasoning! This blend of herbs adds a delicious flavor to the dough, making it taste like it was made in the heart of Italy.
    • Garlic Powder: For an extra pop of savory flavor.

    Pizza

    • Pizza Sauce of Choice: I used regular red sauce, but alfredo sauce or pesto would also work great!
    • Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Shred your own for best results! I used low-moisture mozzarella cheese.
    • Fresh Mozzarella Rounds: To add extra cheesy goodness to the focaccia pizza.
    • Parmesan Cheese: Again, if you want the best possible flavor, grate your own parmesan!
    • Salt and Pepper: Add to taste.
    • Basil Leaves: For garnish. They add amazing aromatics and give the pizza a pop of extra flavor.

    How to Make Focaccia Pizza

    Making homemade focaccia pizza is a lot easier than you’d think! It takes a little bit of patience and effort, but the end result is a delicious and satisfying labor of love that’s sure to impress. It’s hard to go back to normal pizza dough once you’ve tried making pizza on soft, chewy goodness.

    For the Focaccia:

    1. Activate Yeast: In a small bowl mix warm water, yeast, and sugar. Then let sit until the yeast becomes foamy, about 5 minutes
    2. Flour Mixture: In the bowl of a stand mixer, fitted with the paddle, mix your yeast mixture, ¼ cup olive oil, salt, and 2 cups of your flour.
    3. Add More Flour as Needed: Begin mixing and stir in additional flour (½ a cup at a time), and knead on low speed until all flour is incorporated. Add just enough flour so that you have a soft but not too sticky dough (I used 3.5 cups)
    4. Develop Gluten: Once your dough has come together mix for an additional 2 minutes on medium speed to help develop the gluten
    5. Add to Bowl: Remove dough from mixer and place in a bowl oiled with some olive oil. Cover with plastic wrap or a towel dampened with warm water.
    6. Proof: Let the dough sit until it has doubled in size, about an hour.
    7. Shape: Remove dough from bowl and place on an oiled sheet pan, be sure to degas and stretch the dough as far as it will go on the pan without tearing.
    8. Let Dough Rest: Cover and let the dough sit until it has relaxed enough to stretch to cover the pan entirely, about 20-30 minutes.
    9. Shape Again: Use your fingers to create dimples in the dough, being sure to even the dough out on the pan as you do so.
    10. Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.

    Preparing Your Pizza:

    1. Add Pizza Sauce: At this point you are going to assemble your pizza. Spread your sauce of choice evenly over the surface of the dough, leaving some space for a crust if you would like.
    2. Layer With Toppings: In a small bowl mix together your mozzarella and parmesan cheeses and spread them evenly over the sauced dough. If you want additional toppings such as pepperoni, mushrooms, sliced bell pepper, onions, onions, etc. Now is the time to put them on.
    3. Bake: Sprinkle some salt and pepper over the top of it all and place the assembled pizza into your preheated oven, bake for 35-45 minutes.
    4. Enjoy and Serve: Remove from oven when the crust is cooked and all the cheese has melted. Enjoy fresh after allowing the focaccia pizza to cool for a few minutes.
    4-photo collage of pizza being prepared.

    Tips and Variations

    You probably have a pretty good idea of the kind of pizza you want to make, but just in case you want to switch things up, here are a few extra ideas! I have also included a few tips on how to make the best focaccia bread possible. Focaccia pizza is so delicious, I know you’re going to love it as much as I do!

    • Activate Yeast With Warm Water: Make sure to use warm water to activate the yeast. The water should be around 110-115 degrees Fahrenheit (43-46°C) to help activate the yeast and make sure it rises properly.
    • Be Generous With Olive Oil: Don’t skimp on the olive oil. Focaccia bread is known for its crispy and flavorful crust, which is achieved by generously coating the dough with olive oil before baking.
    • Different Toppings: To keep this recipe simple I only made a cheese pizza, but you can add any number of toppings you would like! For proteins, try pepperoni, Italian sausage, bacon crumbles or grilled chicken! You really can’t go wrong with the veggies you add. Try adding chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, olives, spinach, arugula, corn, you name it!
    • Different Sauces: Try using alfredo sauce, BBQ sauce, buffalo sauce, walnut pesto, or even peanut sauce for a Thai-inspired pizza! Also try drizzling some hot honey on top. It’s the best!

    Serving a slice of focaccia pizza.

    How Long Does Focaccia Pizza Last?

    Store leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container for 4-5 days. It will have the best flavor 1-2 days after making it. To reheat your focaccia pizza, you can either pop it in the microwave or in the oven for about 5 minutes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

    Slices of pizza stacked on top of each other.


    Focaccia

    • In a small bowl mix warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let sit until the yeast becomes foamy, about 5 minutes

    • In the bowl of a stand mixer, fitted with the paddle, mix your yeast mixture, ¼ cup olive oil, salt, and 2 cups of your flour.

    • Begin mixing and add additional flour (½ a cup at a time), and knead on low speed until all flour is incorporated. Add just enough flour so that you have a soft but not too sticky dough (I used 3.5 cups)

    • Once your dough has come together mix for an additional 2 minutes on medium speed to help develop the gluten

    • Remove dough from mixer and place in a bowl oiled with some olive oil. Cover with plastic wrap or a towel dampened with warm water.

    • Let the dough sit until it has doubled in size, about an hour.

    • Remove dough from bowl and place on an oiled sheet pan, be sure to degas and stretch the dough as far as it will go on the pan without tearing.

    • Cover and let the dough sit until it has relaxed enough to stretch to cover the pan entirely, about 20-30 minutes.

    • Use your fingers to create dimples in the dough, being sure to even the dough out on the pan as you do so.

    • Preheat oven to 375 degrees fahrenheit.

    Pizza

    • At this point you are going to assemble your pizza. Spread your sauce of choice evenly over the surface of the dough, leaving some space for a crust if you would like.

    • In a small bowl mix together your mozzarella and parmesan cheeses and spread them evenly over the sauced dough. If you want additional toppings such as pepperoni, mushrooms, sliced bell pepper, onions, olives, ect. Now is the time to put them on.

    • Sprinkle some salt and pepper over the top of it all and place the assembled pizza into your preheated oven, bake for 35-45 minutes.

    • Remove from oven when the crust is cooked and all the cheese has melted. Enjoy fresh after allowing the pizza to cool for a few minutes.



    Serves: 8

    Calories252kcal (13%)Carbohydrates33g (11%)Protein7g (14%)Fat10g (15%)Saturated Fat3g (15%)Polyunsaturated Fat1gMonounsaturated Fat6gCholesterol9mg (3%)Sodium847mg (35%)Potassium156mg (4%)Fiber2g (8%)Sugar2g (2%)Vitamin A222IU (4%)Vitamin C2mg (2%)Calcium90mg (9%)Iron2mg (11%)

    All nutritional information is based on third party calculations and is only an estimate. Each recipe and nutritional value will vary depending on the brands you use, measuring methods and portion sizes per household.

    Course Dinner

    Cuisine American

    Keyword focaccia pizza, focaccia pizza recipe

  • Hungarian Goulash

    Hungarian Goulash

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    Hungarian goulash is a hearty and scrumptious beef stew that is Hungary’s national dish. Beef is slow-cooked with onions, tomatoes, carrots, and potatoes to make this the ultimate comfort food and perfect dish for cold days.

    I love making Hungarian Goulash because it all cooks in one pot and the smell is to die for! I make this all the time at home and it’s definitely a family favorite recipe that we’ve enjoyed together for a long time. Stew is a great one-pot dinner that will satisfy the whole family! Once you try this recipe, you’ve got to try this Guinness Beef Stew, this amazing Bean Stew, and this Tuscan Vegetable Chicken Stew.

    Hungarian goulash in a pot.

    Goulash Hungarian

    Goulash means a highly seasoned stew of meat and vegetables. It comes from Hungary and is actually their national dish. It’s really popular all over the world too. Here in America, we have created our own version of it (American Goulash), as have many other countries. I think that the original is the best version! It is SO flavorful and a really easy dish to put together. My kids absolutely love it when I make it!

    The best part about Hungarian goulash is you don’t have to make anything else to go along with it. You absolutely can whip up some homemade pasta or serve this along with some breadsticks, but it’s hearty and filling all on it’s own! The vegetables get so soft and flavorful that my kids totally forget they are eating carrots. The tomatoes are so fragrant and create a perfectly balanced stew.

    Ingredients

    Hungarian goulash is a great stew with just the basic ingredients. First, you cook the onions in butter which is always a perfect way to start any recipe. Then you add more and more vegetables that add more and more flavor. Other ingredients that you could add are caraway seeds, bay leaf, and red bell peppers. Once I scoop out the portions into the bowls, I love adding a dollop of sour cream. You can find the measurements below in the recipe card.

    • Butter: This is to cook the onions and beef.
    • Onion: Onion is what adds so much flavor to this recipe. It also helps to season the meat.
    • Stewing Beef: You can use pretty much whatever kind of beef you want because it will cook for a long time and become tender.
    • Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves minced up infuse a ton of flavor in this recipe.
    • Paprika: You can use regular paprika, or Hungarian paprika if you want to make it really traditional.
    • Salt and Pepper: Brings out lots of flavor in the stew.
    • Beef Broth: This is what makes the base of the stew so flavorful and adds lots of nutrients too.
    • Diced Tomatoes: I like to use these canned tomatoes because they are actually more flavorful than fresh tomatoes.
    • Carrots: They cook until they are soft and soak up all of the broth making them honestly the most flavorful ingredient.
    • Potatoes: Potatoes soak up all of the flavors too and make the stew so filling.
    Process photos showing how to make the stew.

    Hungarian Goulash Recipe

    Hungarian goulash is just like most stews you have made before. It is really simple to make, I think you’re going to love it! You can use ground beef instead of a cut of beef if you want to. I have served this over egg noodles and it was amazing. This is a great recipe to make in your slow cooker or dutch oven even! It’s a great recipe no matter how you make it. I don’t usually use any all-purpose flour to thicken the sauce because I like the consistency. You will cook the beef cubes until they are fork tender.

    1. Saute Onions and Beef: In a large soup pot, over medium high heat, melt your butter and saute your chopped onion. Once the onion begins to brown, add the beef to the pot and cook for about 8 minutes, the beef should start browning. Add the garlic to the pot just before the beef browns and saute with the onion and beef.
    2. Add Seasonings: Remove the pot from heat and add your paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat and pour in your beef broth and canned tomatoes. Return the pot to the stove over high heat and bring to a boil. Once it is boiling reduce the heat, cover and simmer for 30 minutes.
    3. Add Veggies: Add in your carrots and potatoes, increase the heat to medium low and gently boil for another 30-40 minutes, until your carrots, potatoes and meat are tender and cooked through.
    4. Enjoy: Serve hot and add additional salt and pepper to taste.
    Hungarian goulash in a bowl.

    Tips for Making Hungarian Goulash

    Hungarian goulash is really simple to make. If you make this recipe and want to change it to fit your family’s palate’s, here are some changes I’ve made and loved!

    • Spices: You can always add more spices and fresh herbs. I love adding caraway seeds and bay leaves. You can also add fresh herbs at the end like basil, thyme, and anything else you think would go well.
    • Other Types of Protein: You don’t have to just stick to cubed meat, you can use other proteins as well. I have used ground beef from the freezer and it was amazing. You can use any cut of beef, and you can use chicken too. If you don’t want to add any proteins, you could add mushrooms instead.
    • Ways to Cook Goulash: You don’t have to just stick to cooking this on the stove. I have made goulash in the crock pot before and it’s a great way to make this dish super low maintenance. If you are making it in the slow cooker, saute the onions and meat over the stove, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and follow the recipe from there. Cook on low for 4-6 hours. You can also cook this in a Dutch oven.

    A close up on Hungarian goulash in a bowl with a spoon.

    Storing Leftovers

    This Hungarian goulash recipe makes a lot so it’s likely that you will have leftovers! This makes a fantastic lunch or dinner the next day!

    • In the Fridge: Place your cooled goulash in an airtight container and put it in your fridge. Leftover goulash can last 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
    • In the Freezer: You can definitely freeze goulash! Once your goulash has cooled then you can place it in a casserole dish and cover it with a double layer of foil. Or, you can put it in a ziplock bag and lay it flat in your freezer. Make sure to label your container with the date! American goulash can stay frozen for up to 3 months.
    • Reheat: You can heat this back up on the stove on medium heat until it’s warmed through. Or, you can warm it up in the microwave. Cook it for 1-2 minutes on high and stir. Continue this until its warmed up!


    • In a large soup pot, over medium high heat, melt your butter and saute your chopped onion. Once the onion begins to brown, add the beef to the pot and cook for about 8 minutes, the beef should start browning. Add the garlic to the pot just before the beef browns and saute with the onion and beef.

    • Remove the pot from heat and add your paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat and pour in your beef broth and canned tomatoes. Return the pot to the stove over high heat and bring to a boil. Once it is boiling reduce the heat, cover and simmer for 30 minutes.

    • Add in your carrots and potatoes, increase the heat to medium low and gently boil for another 30-40 minutes, until your carrots, potatoes and meat are tender and cooked through.

    • Serve hot and add additional salt and pepper to taste.



    Serves: 8

    Calories152kcal (8%)Carbohydrates7g (2%)Protein15g (30%)Fat8g (12%)Saturated Fat4g (20%)Polyunsaturated Fat1gMonounsaturated Fat2gTrans Fat0.2gCholesterol46mg (15%)Sodium674mg (28%)Potassium469mg (13%)Fiber2g (8%)Sugar3g (3%)Vitamin A4039IU (81%)Vitamin C8mg (10%)Calcium50mg (5%)Iron2mg (11%)

    All nutritional information is based on third party calculations and is only an estimate. Each recipe and nutritional value will vary depending on the brands you use, measuring methods and portion sizes per household.

    Course Dinner

    Cuisine Hungarian

    Keyword beef stew, goulash, hungarian goulash

  • Borscht

    Borscht

    This website may contain affiliate links and advertising so that we can provide recipes to you. Read my privacy policy.

    Borscht: the perfect soup for when you want to feel healthy but need something packed with flavor. It’s like a hug in a bowl, if that hug was made of beets and potatoes. This tasty Ukrainian soup will become a new family favorite!

    I love recreating eastern European recipes at home! After you make this hearty and delicious Borscht, you’ll have to try my homemade pierogi recipe as well as this Hungarian stew. They’re both so satisfying and delicious!

    Beet soup served in a gray bowl with a dollop of sour cream and some fresh dill on top.

    What is Borscht?

    If you’ve never tried it, borscht is a traditional soup that originated in Eastern Europe. It’s made with beets, potatoes, cabbage, carrots, onions, and sometimes meat. (Yum!) It’s usually served with a dollop of sour cream and a slice of bread (usually rye). Borscht is a popular dish in many countries, including Russia, Ukraine, Poland, and Lithuania. The soup is known for its bright purple color and sweet and savory taste. It’s a healthy and filling meal that’s perfect for cold weather, and it’s also a great way to get your daily serving of vegetables! It’s also packed with fiber, making it the perfect pot of nutrition.

    You won’t believe how easy it is to make borscht! All you need to do is chop up some veggies, throw them in a pot with water, and let it simmer away until everything is cooked through. And the best part? You can add leftovers from your fridge! Got some extra carrots and celery lying around? Toss them in! And if you’re feeling fancy, you can even add some meat or beans for extra protein. Once everything is cooked, just add a dollop of sour cream and voila! You’ve got a delicious and healthy meal in no time. So next time you’re feeling lazy but still want something hearty, give this beet soup a try!

    Borscht Ingredients

    Who knew that such simple ingredients could create such a delicious and colorful soup? Borscht proves that beets, potatoes, and cabbage are more than just boring veggies – they’re the stars of the show! It’s the ultimate combination of comfort and flavor. Check out the recipe card below for all measurements.

    • Olive Oil: Used for sautéing vegetables, this oil adds a subtle, fruity flavor to the soup. Can also be substituted with other cooking oils like vegetable or canola oil.
    • Chopped Carrots: Adds a natural sweetness and a pop of color to the soup.
    • Chopped Potatoes: Makes the soup thick and hearty. You can substitute this with other starchy vegetables like sweet potatoes or butternut squash if you’d like!
    • Sliced Cabbage: Adds a bit of crunch and earthiness to the soup. You can also use leafy greens like kale or spinach instead.
    • Minced Garlic Cloves: Adds bold, savory flavor to the borscht. If you don’t have fresh garlic, garlic powder also works!
    • Chicken Broth: Provides a savory, flavorful base for the soup. Beef broth works too! Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian or vegan version.
    • Whole Canned Beets: The star ingredient of borscht! Beets give the soup its distinctive earthy, sweet flavor and vibrant purple color. If you can’t find whole beets, you can also use canned diced beets or fresh beets (roasted or boiled) that have been peeled and chopped.
    • Salt and Pepper: Add both to taste.
    • Sour Cream: (For garnish) Provides a creamy, tangy contrast to the soup. If you don’t like sour cream, you can use Greek yogurt or crème fraîche instead.
    • Fresh Chopped Dill: (For garnish) Adds a fresh, herbal zing to the soup.

    How to Make Ukrainian Borscht

    Making borscht is as easy as a walk in the park (only 3 steps!), and the whole family will fall in love with its earthy sweetness and vibrant color! It’s the perfect soup to warm your heart and fill your belly. Plus, it’s a great way to get your daily dose of veggies and vitamins!

    1. Sauté Veggies: In a large stock pot over medium high heat, heat your olive oil and toss in your chipped carrots, curbed potatoes, and sliced cabbage. Cook until the vegetables just begin to soften. You’ll know they are ready when your potatoes just begin to start getting transparent. Then toss in your garlic and sauté everything for about 2-3 minutes.
    2. Add in Remaining Ingredients: Add in your vegetable broth, chopped beets, salt and pepper and then bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer until your vegetables are tender, about 20 minutes.
    3. Serve and Enjoy: Serve hot with sour cream and fresh dill, add more salt and pepper to taste.
    4-photo collage of vegetables being sauteed and added to a soup pot.

    Tips and Tricks

    Borscht is super easy to customize. Here are a few ways you can make it your own! You’re going to love it. This is the perfect hearty dinner to make while nights are still chilly.

    • Adjust Seasoning: Borscht is a versatile soup, so feel free to adjust the salt, pepper, and other spices to your liking.
    • Using Other Vegetables: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different vegetables! You can add other root vegetables like parsnips or turnips, leafy greens like kale or spinach, or even mushrooms or tomatoes.
    • Different Broth: Instead of chicken or vegetable broth, try using beef or mushroom broth for a richer, heartier flavor.
    • Add Protein: To make the soup more filling, you can also add protein like shredded chicken, beef, or sausage. Vegetarians can add beans or tofu.
    • More Toppings: Sour cream and dill are classic toppings for borscht, but you can also try crumbled feta cheese, chopped scallions, or a drizzle of olive oil.
    • Serve With Bread: Borscht is traditionally served with bread, so try pairing it with a crusty baguette, French bread, or pumpernickel for a hearty meal.

    Storing Leftovers

    Borscht is the gift that keeps on giving – it lasts for days! You can easily heat it up throughout the week for a hearty, nutrient-packed lunch.

    • In the Refrigerator: In an airtight container, borscht will stay good for about one week.
    • In the Freezer: You can also freeze leftovers! Keep them in an airtight container or freezer bag and then store for 2-3 months. Let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

    Top-down view of borscht being scooped up with a ladle in a large pot.


    • In a large stock pot over medium high heat, heat your olive oil and toss in your chipped carrots, curbed potatoes, and sliced cabbage. Cook until the vegetables just begin to soften. You’ll know they are ready when your potatoes just begin to start getting transparent. Toss in your garlic and saute everything for about 2-3 minutes.

    • Add in your vegetable broth, chopped beets, salt and pepper and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer until your vegetables are tender, about 20 minutes.

    • Serve hot with sour cream and fresh dill, add more salt and pepper to taste.



    Serves: 8

    Calories91kcal (5%)Carbohydrates14g (5%)Protein2g (4%)Fat4g (6%)Saturated Fat1g (5%)Polyunsaturated Fat0.4gMonounsaturated Fat3gSodium559mg (23%)Potassium375mg (11%)Fiber3g (12%)Sugar6g (7%)Vitamin A2765IU (55%)Vitamin C12mg (15%)Calcium23mg (2%)Iron1mg (6%)

    All nutritional information is based on third party calculations and is only an estimate. Each recipe and nutritional value will vary depending on the brands you use, measuring methods and portion sizes per household.

    Course Dinner, lunch

    Cuisine Eastern European, Ukrainian

    Keyword borscht, borscht recipe

  • Pasta Al Limone

    Pasta Al Limone

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    Pasta al limone is a really simple and classic Italian dish of long noodles and a parmesan and lemon topping. It is covered in melted butter and tangy lemon, and is the perfect thing to cook for dinner when you don’t know what to make!

    This recipe is so simple, and super flavorful! You can eat it as is, or you can dress it up with a protein or a side dish. If you love plain and simple noodle recipes, you’ve got to try these delicious Garlic Sesame Noodles, this classic Creamy Carbonara, and this delicious Browned Butter and Mizithra Cheese Spaghetti.

    A close up on pasta al limone.

    Pasta al Limon

    Pasta al limone, or lemon pasta, is an incredibly popular pasta dish in Italy, and I can see why! It’s so simple, yet bursting with the delicious flavors of butter or olive oil, Parmesan cheese, and lots of lemon. It’s so simple and I love making this dish for dinner when I’m short on time, ideas, and resources. If you’ve got a box of spaghetti in the pantry and a few lemons on the counter, you’ve got what you need for this recipe!

    If I am making this for dinner, I love serving it with some kind of protein. My favorite options are this Greek lemon chicken or this crockpot apricot chicken. Not that those are traditional in this dish at all, I just know my family will be hungry again in an hour if I don’t feed them a little something extra! I also love making air fryer mushrooms to go on top, they are so good and easy to make! You can also serve

    Ingredients

    I love pasta al limone for many reasons, but my favorite reason is how simple the ingredient list is! You can make the sauce more hearty and add more ingredients, but the traditional recipe is so delicate and delicious. You can add more fresh herbs on top of this lemon pasta recipe if you would like to. I think the lemon flavor is enough to flavor the whole thing on it’s own! You can find the measurements below in the recipe card.

    • Spaghetti: Spaghetti noodles are traditional and delicious, not to mention easy to cook!
    • Butter: You can use butter or olive oil in this recipe. You will make a butter sauce with garlic and lemon juice and zest.
    • Garlic: Fresh garlic clove makes this dish so savory and delicious.
    • Lemon Juice: This is where the magic happens. Lemon juice is the star of this past! Make sure you have at least two lemons on hand.
    • Lemon Zest: Zest is so strong and flavorful, and adds a pop of fresh lemon flavors. Make sure to thoroughly wash your lemons first.
    • Parmesan Cheese: Parmigiano Reggiano is the perfect choice for shredding on top of this pasta.
    • Salt and Pepper: This dish is heavy on the black pepper, and for good reason! It goes great with the lemon and Parmesan. Feel free to add however much you like.
    • Basil or Italian Parsley: This is for garnishing the top. It adds a pop of fresh flavor that you definitely want to include!
    Process photos showing how to make the sauce and cook the pasta.

    Pasta al Limone Recipe

    Get ready for the easiest pasta recipe you’ll ever make! Pasta al limone is so straightforward and alive with flavor. Once you cook the pasta, you will use one cup of the reserved pasta water to make the butter lemon sauce. Pasta cooking water is salty and starchy, and helps to bring the sauce together.

    1. Cook Pasta: In a large pot, filled with salted water, boil your pasta until al dente. Follow package instructions. Drain pasta, reserving 1 cup of the pasta water.
    2. Make Lemon Sauce: Once your pasta is cooked and drained, in a large skillet over medium heat melt your butter. Sautee your minced garlic in the melted butter for just under a minute, add in your cooked pasta, half of your lemon juice, and half of the reserved pasta water.
    3. Add Pasta: Cook the pasta in the skillet, stirring continuously to coat the pasta in the butter mixture. Keep an eye on your pasta as you cook, it should always remain evenly coated in the sauce while it cooks, if it becomes dry or at all, add a little more of the reserved water, but don’t over water your pasta.
    4. Add Lemon and Cheese: Once your pasta has cooked in the skillet, being continually stirred, for about 3 minutes add in the lemon zest, the rest of the lemon juice, and your parmesan cheese. Then continue to stir and cook the pasta, evenly distributing the cheese and zest.
    5. Add Seasoning: Add in salt and pepper and adjust the amount to your liking. The pasta is ready to serve when it is even coated in the lemon butter sauce mixture and the cheese has been evenly melted and distributed throughout the noodles.
    6. Enjoy: Enjoy fresh, plating your pasta with thinly sliced lemon wedges and minced lemongrass for garnish.
    Pasta al limone in the pan.

    Tips for Making Pasta al Limone

    Pasta al limone is such a great recipe to have in your recipe book! It is simple, delicious, and full of flavor. If you are looking for ways to mix things up, or just want your pasta to turn out perfect, try these tips. It will turn out perfectly every time!

    • Add Heavy Cream: If you want to make this more of a cream sauce, you can add 1 cup of heavy cream to the pan when you add your other sauce ingredients. It gives the pasta a little more body and makes the pasta extra creamy and delicious!
    • Add a Protein: This pasta is perfect topped with chicken. I listed some of my favorite chicken recipes above. Other chicken recipes you can try: Grilled Chicken, Lemon Chicken Piccata, and Chicken Francese.
    • Rasp Grater: This is my secret weapon! A rasp grater, sometimes called a microplaner, is the perfect way to grate parmesan. It crumbles it up so small that it completely melts into the sauce, leaving it so creamy. I also like to grate fresh parm on the top of the pasta after I plate everything.

    A fork scooping up pasta al limone.

    Storing Leftovers

    Pasta al limone is so yummy I doubt you’ll have any leftovers! If you do happen to have some you need to store, here is how.

    • In the Refrigerator: Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You may need to drizzle olive oil on top when reheating to help the noodles rehydrate.


    • In a large pot, filled with salted water, boil your pasta until al dente. Follow the package instructions. Drain the pasta, reserving 1 cup of the pasta water.

    • Once your pasta is cooked and drained, in a large skillet over medium heat melt your butter. Sautee your minced garlic in the melted butter for just under a minute, add in your cooked pasta, half of your lemon juice, and half of the reserved pasta water.

    • Cook the pasta in the skillet, stirring continuously to coat the pasta in the butter mixture. Keep an eye on your pasta as you cook, it should always remain evenly coated in the sauce while it cooks, if it becomes dry or at all, add a little more of the reserved water, but don’t over water your pasta.

    • Once your pasta has cooked in the skillet, being continually stirred, for about 3 minutes add in the lemon zest, the rest of the lemon juice, and your parmesan cheese. Continue to stir and cook the pasta, evenly distributing the cheese and zest.

    • Add in salt and pepper and adjust the amount to your liking. The pasta is ready to serve when it is even coated in the lemon butter sauce mixture and the cheese has been evenly melted and distributed throughout the noodles.

    • Enjoy fresh, plating your pasta with thinly sliced lemon wedges and minced lemongrass for garnish.



    Serves: 6

    Calories382kcal (19%)Carbohydrates45g (15%)Protein12g (24%)Fat17g (26%)Saturated Fat10g (50%)Polyunsaturated Fat1gMonounsaturated Fat4gTrans Fat0.5gCholesterol45mg (15%)Sodium385mg (16%)Potassium162mg (5%)Fiber2g (8%)Sugar2g (2%)Vitamin A494IU (10%)Vitamin C0.2mgCalcium164mg (16%)Iron1mg (6%)

    All nutritional information is based on third party calculations and is only an estimate. Each recipe and nutritional value will vary depending on the brands you use, measuring methods and portion sizes per household.

    Course Dinner, Side Dish

    Cuisine Italian, Italian American

    Keyword lemon pasta, pasta al limone, pasta recipes

  • Walnut Pesto

    Walnut Pesto

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    Move over, traditional basil pesto, there’s a new nut in town! Walnut pesto is the perfect combination of earthy, nutty goodness with just the right amount of zing. You won’t want it any other way. Spread it on chicken, toss it with pasta, or even eat it by the spoonful- no judgement here!

    It’s probably pretty clear by now that pesto is one of my favorite Italian dishes. It’s just so earthy and flavorful! You can make it so many different ways and it’s great on tons of different dishes. For starters, try this basil pesto or creamy pesto, and then use it for these delicious stuffed pork chops! It’s one of my favorite recipes! If you’re craving carbs, this 10-minute pesto pasta is another great option.

    Top-down view of walnut pesto in a wooden bowl.

    Pesto Recipe With Walnuts

    Walnut pesto is like a magic potion that transforms even the most boring dishes into something exciting and flavorful! It’s such a great switch up from regular pesto because of its rich and nutty flavor. Whether you’re drizzling it over pasta, spreading it on toast, or using it as a dip for veggies or crostini, this versatile sauce never fails to impress. With its nutty, savory taste and fresh herby aroma, walnut pesto is sure to delight your taste buds and put a smile on your face!

    Good news is, it’s SO easy to make. All you need are a handful of ingredients – walnuts, garlic, basil, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese – and a blender or food processor. Simply toss everything in, pulse until smooth, and bam! You’ve got a batch of homemade walnut pesto that’s ready to elevate any dish. So go ahead and impress your friends and family with your Italian culinary skills! We won’t tell them how easy this was to make.

    Ingredients Needed

    Walnut pesto may sound fancy, but it’s made with simple ingredients that are probably already in your pantry! This combo of a few simple ingredients really packs a punch in the flavor department. You’re going to love it! See the recipe card below for exact measurements.

    • Fresh Basil Leaves: These vibrant green leaves are the star of the show in walnut pesto, giving it that classic herby flavor. If you’re running low on basil, you can also substitute it with other leafy greens like arugula or spinach.
    • Walnuts: These crunchy little guys add a rich, nutty flavor and creamy texture to the pesto. It really is the best! Pistachios or almonds also work if you want a slightly different flavor!
    • Garlic Cloves: Add a spicy, savory kick and depth of flavor to the pesto. If you’re not a fan of raw garlic, you can try roasting it beforehand to mellow out the flavor.
    • Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated works best! This salty, tangy cheese adds a delicious umami flavor and helps to thicken the pesto. To make your pesto more traditional, try using pecorino romano.
    • Lemon Juice: This adds a bright, tangy flavor to the walnut pesto and helps to balance out the richness of the nuts and cheese.
    • Extra-Virgin Olive Oil: Helps to blend all of the ingredients together smoothly.
    • Kosher Salt: Brings out the flavor in all of the ingredients. Add to taste!

    How to Make Walnut Pesto

    Making walnut pesto sauce is so easy, you could practically do it blindfolded! Just toss all the ingredients into a food processor and blend! From there, you’ve got a nutty, creamy sauce that’s perfect for pasta, pizza, sandwiches, and more.

    1. Blend: Add the basil leaves into a food processor along with the walnuts, parmesan cheese, garlic cloves, lemon juice, and salt. Then pulse until the ingredients are finely chopped but not quite a paste.
    2. Add Olive Oil, Blend Again: Remove the lid and slowly pour half of the extra virgin olive oil and pulse the ingredients together until it’s mixed well. For a more liquid style pesto add the remainder olive oil and then pulse again to mix.
    3. Adjust Flavor: Taste the sauce and then adjust the seasoning as desired.
    3-photo collage of ingredients being blended together.

    Tips and Tricks

    Customize your walnut pesto to your heart’s content! Want it spicier? Add some red pepper flakes. Prefer a smokier flavor? Try using smoked paprika instead of garlic. The possibilities are endless, so have fun experimenting and perfecting your own unique blend of nutty goodness!

    • Toast Walnuts: Toast your walnuts before using them in the pesto to bring out their nutty flavor and make them easier to blend.
    • Don’t Over-blend: Don’t over-blend the pesto – a few pulses is all you need to achieve a creamy texture.
    • Adjust Consistency: If the pesto seems too thick, you can thin it out with a little extra olive oil.
    • Customize: Experiment with different herbs, nuts, and cheeses to create your own unique spin on classic walnut pesto.

    Storing Leftovers

    You’ll want to make sure you store leftovers of this sauce. It’s so great to have on hand! You can use it for so many different things. Pasta, sandwiches, flatbread pizzas, you name it!

    • In the Refrigerator: Don’t let your precious homemade walnut pesto go to waste! To store it properly, simply transfer leftover pesto to an airtight container and then pop it in the fridge. It will stay good for about a week. Just remember to add a thin layer of olive oil on top so it doesn’t oxidize.

    Closeup of a spoonful of pesto.


    • Add the basil leaves into a food processor along with the walnuts, parmesan cheese, garlic cloves, lemon juice, and salt. Pulse until the ingredients are finely chopped but not quite a paste.

    • Remove the lid and slowly pour half in the olive oil and pulse the ingredients together until it’s mixed well. For a more liquid style pesto add the remainder olive oil and pulse again to mix.

    • Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as desired.



    Serves: 4

    Calories278kcal (14%)Carbohydrates3g (1%)Protein7g (14%)Fat28g (43%)Saturated Fat5g (25%)Polyunsaturated Fat7gMonounsaturated Fat15gCholesterol9mg (3%)Sodium492mg (21%)Potassium114mg (3%)Fiber1g (4%)Sugar1g (1%)Vitamin A1049IU (21%)Vitamin C5mg (6%)Calcium191mg (19%)Iron1mg (6%)

    All nutritional information is based on third party calculations and is only an estimate. Each recipe and nutritional value will vary depending on the brands you use, measuring methods and portion sizes per household.

    Course Sauce

    Cuisine Italian

    Keyword walnut pesto, walnut pesto recipe

  • Crockpot BBQ Meatballs

    Crockpot BBQ Meatballs

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    BBQ Meatballs are cooked in a slow cooker and smothered in a delicious barbecue sauce. They are the easiest meatball recipe you’ll ever try, and they are perfect for parties and simple appetizers.

    I love good party food! Especially finger or toothpick food, because they are the perfect size for one satisfying bite. If there is a spread, you can try one of everything, and go back for seconds of the things you loved. Can you tell I love throwing a party with lots of food? If you do too, you’ll have to try this Jalapeno Popper Dip, these Chicken Bacon Ranch Pinwheels, and these amazing Strawberry Bruschetta at your next party.

    A bbq meatball on a toothpick.

    Crockpot BBQ Meatballs

    This BBQ meatball recipe is so quick and simple, this is a no fuss recipe that I come back to time and time again! I use frozen meatballs (yes, I don’t always make everything from scratch!). If you want to make your own meatballs, I’ve got you covered. This classic homemade meatball recipe has all of the good stuff- ground beef, onion, breadcrumbs, egg, and even cheddar cheese! They are easy and super delicious. I also love these turkey meatballs for a great alternative. If you just want to grab frozen ones from the store then I’m definitely right there with you.

    I love these easy crockpot meatballs because they marinate in a sweet and savory barbecue sauce that is irresistible. If I’m not making grape jelly meatballs, then I’m making this recipe. The flavors are so bold and amazing. It’s the perfect dish for an appetizer you don’t have to think about. No turning on your oven, just throw everything in the pot and let it cook. These meatballs are also full of protein and make a delicious dinner served with rice or mashed potatoes!

    Ingredients

    This BBQ meatball recipe really only calls for two ingredients, frozen meatballs and bbq sauce. All of the other ingredients are to add extra flavor to the bbq sauce which are optional. If you are making your own homemade barbecue sauce, then you can add extra flavors right into your sauce. If I’m keeping this recipe simple, then I grab a bottle of my favorite sauce from the store, and add honey and brown sugar to make a simple honey bbq sauce. You can find the measurements below in the recipe card.

    • Frozen Meatballs: If you want to make your meatballs from scratch, I share my meatball recipes above.
    • BBQ Sauce: I have a great homemade recipe you can try, or to keep things simple just pick up your favorite brand from the store.
    • Garlic Powder: This adds extra flavor. You could also add onion powder
    • Honey: I like to add honey for extra depth of flavor and some sweetness. It also helps the sauce stick to the meatballs.
    • Brown Sugar: This is to sweeten up the sauce, and to make the sauce really stick to the meatballs.
    • Cayenne Pepper: I like to add a little spice. If you want it extra spicy, then add black pepper and chili sauce or chili powder.
    Process photos showing how to make this recipe.

    BBQ Meatball Recipe

    This BBQ meatball recipe is a simple dump-and-do. You just mix up your sauce, put your meatballs in the crock pot, and then dump the sauce on top. Cook on low for a few hours, and you’ve got delicious and juicy meatballs that everyone will love! If you love simple recipes, you are going to want to save this one.

    1. Spray Bowl: Lightly spray a slow cooker insert with nonstick cooking spray.
    2. Mix Sauce: In a bowl, add bbq sauce, honey, sugar, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Then mix to combine.
    3. Add Meatballs: Add frozen meatballs to the slow cooker and pour the sauce on top of the meatballs. Then stir to coat the meatballs.
    4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours or high for 2 hours.
    5. Stir: Stir the meatballs before serving! Then enjoy!
    An overhead look at the bbq meatballs in the crock pot.

    Tips for Making BBQ Meatballs

    If you decide to make your own meatballs for this recipe, make sure to read this tip below or your meatballs won’t turn out! I also share some of my other favorite flavors.

    • Homemade Meatballs: If you make your own meatballs, you will need to slightly cook them before putting them in the slow cooker. I recommend browning them in a pan, or cooking them in the oven. They don’t need to be cooked all the way through since you will be finishing them in the slow cooker. If you put them in the crock pot totally raw, they will fall apart or stick together, and take much longer to cook. You can even make your own homemade meatballs, cook and freeze them. Then they are ready to pull out anytime you need them! I share my favorite meatball recipes above.
    • Flavor Variations: You can make SO many different versions of these crockpot meatballs. Some of my favorites are grape jelly meatballs, Asian meatballs, Swedish meatballs, and teriyaki meatballs. Pretty much any sauce you love with ground beef you can throw on top of these meatballs for an amazing new dish.

    BBQ meatballs on a plate.

    Storing Leftovers

    These bbq meatballs are the perfect appetizer, and also make amazing leftovers. They are super easy to reheat in the microwave and taste just as amazing the next day! Here is how to store your leftovers.

    • In the Refrigerator: Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.


    • Lightly spray a slow cooker insert with nonstick cooking spray.

    • In a bowl, add bbq sauce, honey, sugar, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Mix to combine.

    • Add frozen meatballs to the slow cooker and pour the sauce on top of the meatballs. Stir to coat the meatballs.

    • Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours or high for 2 hours.

    • Stir the meatballs before serving!



    Serves: 6

    Serving4meatballsCalories566kcal (28%)Carbohydrates60g (20%)Protein22g (44%)Fat27g (42%)Saturated Fat10g (50%)Polyunsaturated Fat2gMonounsaturated Fat12gCholesterol88mg (29%)Sodium1054mg (44%)Potassium598mg (17%)Fiber1g (4%)Sugar52g (58%)Vitamin A257IU (5%)Vitamin C2mg (2%)Calcium57mg (6%)Iron2mg (11%)

    All nutritional information is based on third party calculations and is only an estimate. Each recipe and nutritional value will vary depending on the brands you use, measuring methods and portion sizes per household.

    Course Appetizer

    Cuisine American

    Keyword bbq meatballs, slow cooker meatballs

  • Brown Sugar Garlic Air Fryer Salmon

    Brown Sugar Garlic Air Fryer Salmon

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    Melt-in-your-mouth brown sugar garlic air fryer salmon is juicy, tender and full of flavor. Salmon is so good, especially when it’s cooked right, and the air fryer makes it perfect every time! It’s an easy, hands-off way to make a scrumptious meal.

    Serve this amazing salmon with a veggie and starch of choice. You can try some mashed potatoes, roasted lemon honey asparagus or a fresh panzanella salad! Brown sugar garlic salmon is super versatile and works with a variety of sides.

    Closeup of tender, juicy Brown Sugar Garlic Salmon

    The BEST Air Fryer Salmon

    Moist and flaky inside, crispy seasoned outside. Using an air fryer takes all of the guesswork out of making salmon! Sometimes it can be intimidating to cook seafood but it’s so easy. This will turn a weekend meal to a weeknight staple. It’s so quick too! 20 minutes or so and dinner’s on the table. You can even make some air fryer asparagus or broccoli in a snap to go with it! A complete dinner in less than 30 minutes. (Aren’t air fryer recipes the best?!)

    Honestly, the combination of brown sugar and garlic is amazing. The sweet and savory is a match made in heaven. The brown sugar caramelizes on the surface of the salmon, adding a subtle sweetness that balances out the pungent garlic. It complements the flavor of salmon so well! Whether you’re a seafood lover or not, this dish is sure to win you over with its unique and addictive flavor! Good thing it’s so easy to make! If you love salmon as much as I do, find my full list of recipes here.

    Why Air Frying Salmon Works

    Air frying is just the best way to cook salmon for so many reasons.

    • Circulating: The way the air fryer cooks the salmon allows the air to circulate cooking the outside to crispy perfection. While the inside is juicy and flaky like it should be!
    • Salmon: Because salmon is a firm fish it won’t fall apart in the fryer.
    • It’s Fast: It’s no secret anymore that cooking with an air fryer is faster and easier to clean up.
    • Heat: Using the air fryer won’t heat up your kitchen and frees up the oven for something else. You are going to love it!

    Ingredients for Brown Sugar Garlic Salmon

    Sweet meets savory in the ultimate flavor fusion! Brown sugar, garlic, and salmon – the power trio that will make your taste buds sing. Here’s everything you need to put this tasty salmon together! All measurements can be found in the recipe card below.

    • Salmon Fillets: This can be made with fresh or previously frozen salmon.
    • Kosher Salt and Pepper: Add to taste. I like using kosher salt because it doesn’t have the bitter aftertaste that table salt does.
    • Brown Sugar: Provides a rich, sweet flavor and also adds a nice crust.
    • Chili Powder: Brings the heat to the sweet.
    • Paprika: Adds color and a little heat.
    • Italian SeasoningThe perfect blend of herbs!
    • Garlic Powder: A nice punch of flavor. You can also use fresh minced garlic!

    How to Cook Salmon in the Air Fryer

    Who says delicious meals have to be complicated? With an air fryer, whipping up brown sugar garlic salmon is a breeze – just pop it in, set the timer, and voila! A restaurant-quality dish ready in minutes. Now, that’s what we call a tasty hack!

    1. Rub: Salt and pepper the salmon to taste. In a small bowl mix the brown sugar, chili powder, paprika, Italian seasoning and garlic powder. Rub salmon seasoning into the fillets.
    2. Bake: Place in the air fryer basket skin-side down. Bake at 400 degrees F for 10 minutes. If you are adding asparagus add it after the first 5 minutes.
    Seasoning salmon with brown sugar and garlic, then adding it to an air fryer basket.

    Tips for Air Frying Salmon

    This air fryer salmon recipe is super easy and will be even better when you follow these extra tips!

    • Choosing your Salmon: Both fresh and frozen salmon work for this recipe. Thaw the frozen salmon before cooking. Salmon should be clean, brightly colored, and free from soft spots or discolorations.
    • Dry: To help the seasonings stick to the salmon pat it dry with paper towels. Also press the seasonings into the salmon so it stays on the salmon.
    • Check if Done: Check the salmon early to make sure you don’t overcook it. You do not want to overcook salmon. Using a meat thermometer, check the thickest part of the salmon. The internal temperature should be 145 degrees F. Remove from the air fryer immediately, it will continue to cook if left in the basket.
    • No Thermometer: If you don’t have a meat thermometer you can tell when Salmon is done by the color. When salmon is cooked it turns from a translucent reddish to an opaque pink. Raw salmon is translucent and reddish. When it’s cooked, it turns opaque pink.

    Storing Leftovers

    Air-fried salmon, like any cooked fish, can last for up to 3-4 days when stored properly in the refrigerator. It’s important to place the leftover salmon in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap before keeping it in the fridge. You can also freeze cooked salmon for up to three months! But let’s be real, who can resist a delicious piece of salmon for that long? It’s always best to enjoy it fresh out of the air fryer.

    • Reheating: I always like to reheat my salmon in the air fryer so it keeps that crispy crust. 4-5 minutes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit should do the trick! Try these amazing air fryer brussels sprouts to go with it! It’s a quick and tasty meal.

    Juicy, tender brown sugar garlic salmon served with asparagus and lemon wedges.


    • Salt and pepper the salmon. In a small bowl add the brown sugar, chili powder, paprika, Italian seasoning and garlic powder. Rub on the salmon.

    • In the basket of your air fryer add the salmon skin side down. Turn the air fryer to 400 degrees and cook for 10 minutes. If adding asparagus add to the basket after 5 minutes.

    Originally posted November 14, 2020
    Updated March 15, 2023

    Serves: 4

    Calories190kcal (10%)Carbohydrates7g (2%)Protein23g (46%)Fat7g (11%)Saturated Fat1g (5%)Cholesterol62mg (21%)Sodium61mg (3%)Potassium574mg (16%)Fiber1g (4%)Sugar6g (7%)Vitamin A317IU (6%)Calcium27mg (3%)Iron1mg (6%)

    All nutritional information is based on third party calculations and is only an estimate. Each recipe and nutritional value will vary depending on the brands you use, measuring methods and portion sizes per household.

    Course Dinner, Main Course

    Cuisine American

    Keyword air fryer salmon, brown sugar salmon, garlic salmon

  • Baked Chicken Thighs

    Baked Chicken Thighs

    This website may contain affiliate links and advertising so that we can provide recipes to you. Read my privacy policy.

    Baked Chicken Thighs are tender and juicy and baked in an AMAZING glaze mixture of Italian seasoning, Dijon mustard, sweet honey, and garlic cloves. This is a MUST make family meal!

    Chicken thighs have so much tender, juicy meat on them! If you love chicken thighs as much as I do try this Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs and Veggie, this incredible Lemon Garlic Butter Herb Chicken with Asparagus, and this Roasted Honey Garlic Butter Chicken.

    Baked chicken thighs in a white pan.

    Oven Baked Chicken Thighs

    This is it! This is the recipe that is a staple in our home. It is simple to make, easy to whisk together and has the BEST results! Baked chicken thighs are more than AMAZING. It is all you wanted and more! Crispy brown chicken skin on the outside then amazingly tender and juicy on the inside. Every bite of this dish is melt in your mouth worthy! It is one of our favorites as a family. Seriously, this recipe is a MUST make for sure!

    The best part about this dish is that it is perfect served with anything! It’s so versatile, I love serving it with Instapot rice one day and an Asian ramen salad the next. You can go classic mashed potatoes and brown gravy with it and it’s always a hit. Chicken thighs are seriously the best part of the chicken if you ask me. They are so moist and flavorful, and perfect for baking in the oven because they won’t dry out. Grab some bone-in chicken thighs because the bone helps keep the moisture while they bake in the oven.

    Ingredients

    For the juiciest, tender chicken thighs, it is best to purchase bone in with skin on chicken thighs. This baked chicken thigh recipe is so simple to make with very few ingredients. You will be making this easy recipe over and over again! You can find the measurements below in the recipe card.

    • Chicken Thighs: Grab some bone in chicken thighs, they are perfect for baking in the oven!
    • Salt and Pepper: To season the thighs.
    • Butter: A must! The fat from butter helps to bring out all the juicy flavors in this dish.
    • Italian Seasoning: This is my go-to spice blend because it has all of my favorite herbs.
    • Honey: I like to add honey because it makes a kind of glaze over the chicken.
    • Dijon Mustard: I love the blend of flavors in Dijon mustard. You could try other types of mustard too, there are so many great options.
    • Paprika: A little spice goes a long way.
    • Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic makes all the difference!
    Baked chicken thigh process with the whisked sauce ingredients, brushed on chicken thighs then adding garlic to the top.

    How to Bake Chicken Thighs

    No prepping the chicken thighs, just simply lay flat in a baking dish and add salt and pepper to taste. It is quick and easy to whisk the ingredients together and spread over the chicken thighs. With this baked chicken recipe the skin is going to turn a golden brown and become crispy while baking the chicken thigh meat inside to a tender and juicy meat. It is an AMAZING combination that you are going to love!

    1. Prepare Chicken: Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the chicken in a single layer in a 9×13 inch baking dish. Salt and pepper.
    2. Whisk Together: In small bowl whisk together the butter, Italian seasoning, honey, Dijon mustard, paprika, and garlic cloves.
    3. Combine and Bake: Spread the mixture evenly over the chicken and bake for 35-40 minutes or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit and is browned on the tops.

    How Long to Bake Chicken Thighs

    The higher temperature when baking chicken thighs is what creates that golden brown outer skin that protects the dark meat from over cooking. It also keeps the meat more tender. I like to bake chicken thighs at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 35 to 40 minutes. Checking the chicken with a meat thermometer gives the best reading to find out if they have reached an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Here’s a simple chart to follow:

    • 350°F – 50-55 minutes
    • 375°F – 45-50 minutes
    • 400°F – 40-45 minutes
    • 425°F – 35-40 minutes

    Baked chicken thighs close up.

    Tips for Making Baked Chicken Thighs

    From how to choose the best chicken thighs to knowing when they are done, I’ve got all the pro tips to make this baked chicken thigh recipe a success! Here are some things to help you while you make this recipe.

    • Chicken Breast: If you prefer chicken breast instead of chicken thighs you can substitute the chicken breast. Chicken breasts tend to dry out quicker compared to chicken thighs. You will want to cook it at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for about 25 to 30 minutes checking it with a meat thermometer.
    • Choosing Chicken Thighs: It is best to find chicken thighs that are all the same size and shape. This will help the chicken cook more evenly so that every piece is perfectly cooked.
    • Preparing Chicken Thighs: Before placing the chicken thighs in the baking dish, pat them dry with a paper towel. Then add the salt and pepper.
    • Meat Thermometer: Using a meat thermometer is the best way to make sure that your meat reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
    • Cooking on the Stovetop: Cook your chicken thighs over medium heat in a skillet. Place the chicken thighs skin side down until it is a dark golden brown.

    Additional FAQ about Baked Chicken Thighs:

    • Should I cover my chicken thighs when baking? There is no need to cover your chicken thighs while baking. This will ensure the crispy outer layer on the chicken thighs turns a golden brown and cooks up quickly.
    • What temperature should chicken thighs be cooked? It is best to have a higher temperature cooking setting to crisp up the outside of the chicken thigh and tenderize the inside making it so delicious and juicy.
    • Do you put water in the pan when baking chicken? No, there is no need to add any water to the baking dish. The glaze that is whisked together is AMAZING and will bake perfectly in this baked chicken thigh recipe.
    • Should I trim my chicken thighs? Another great thing about chicken thighs is there is less preparation when using them. They do not need to be trimmed. Simply add them to the baking dish with the glaze over top of it.
    • Why are my chicken thighs tough? Normally chicken thighs do not come out tough unless they are overcooked in the oven.
    Baked chicken thighs in a baking pan with lemon slices.

    Storing Leftovers

    Baked chicken thighs are so simple to make and in less than an hour you have a delicious meal with tender chicken to enjoy with your family. This recipe is perfect for preparing ahead of time and making it easier during the busy week ahead.

    • Make Glaze Ahead of Time: Prepare the glaze about 3 days ahead of time before it needs to be baked with the chicken thighs.
    • In the Refrigerator: Let your chicken thighs completely cool before adding them to an airtight container or ziplock bag. Try not to stack them over top of each other. It is best if they are laying flat, side by side. They will store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
    • In the Freezer: It is best to freeze the chicken thighs in a flat layer in a ziplock bag with the air completley removed. Properly stored when laying flat and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake or reheat, let thaw in the refrigerator over night.
    • To Reheat: It is best to let your chicken thaw before cooking or reheating again. Once your chicken thighs are thawed from the refrigerator place on a baking sheet and bake at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 20 to 25 minutes or until the meat thermometer reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. It is best to only reheat chicken one time.


    • Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Place the chicken in a single layer in a 9×13 inch baking dish. Salt and pepper.

    • In small bowl whisk together the butter, Italian seasoning, honey, dijon mustard, paprika, and garlic cloves.

    • Spread the mixture evenly over the chicken and bake for 35-40 minutes or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees and is browned on the tops.


    Originally Posted Feb 2, 2020
    Updated March 13, 2023

    Serves: 6

    Calories470kcal (24%)Carbohydrates5g (2%)Protein24g (48%)Fat40g (62%)Saturated Fat16g (80%)Cholesterol182mg (61%)Sodium276mg (12%)Potassium320mg (9%)Fiber1g (4%)Sugar3g (3%)Vitamin A764IU (15%)Vitamin C1mg (1%)Calcium32mg (3%)Iron1mg (6%)

    All nutritional information is based on third party calculations and is only an estimate. Each recipe and nutritional value will vary depending on the brands you use, measuring methods and portion sizes per household.

    Course Dinner, Main Course

    Cuisine American

    Keyword Baked Chicken Thighs, Baked chicken thighs recipe, Chicken Thighs

  • Thai Basil Chicken

    Thai Basil Chicken

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    Thai Basil Chicken is a quick and easy chicken dinner that is bursting with fresh flavors. Bell peppers, fresh basil, and a unique blend of sauces make this chicken so crave-able!

    Chicken dinners are a common thing at my house. Chicken is inexpensive, easy to cook, and a great way to fill bellies on a budget. If you are looking for more chicken dinner inspiration, you’ve got to try this simple Crockpot Tuscan Chicken, this amazing Baked Honey Sesame Chicken, and this Cashew Chicken.

    Thai basil chicken on a white plate.

    Thai Basil Chicken Recipe

    Are you getting tired of the same old flavors when it comes to your chicken meals? This Thai basil chicken recipe takes just 30 minutes and is so full of flavor you won’t believe it’s chicken breast! Of course you can use whatever part of the chicken you prefer. I love the taste of this dish so much, especially served with jasmine rice or coconut rice. It’s just as good as a Thai restaurant, for less than half the cost!

    When you order this dish at a Thai restaurant, it’s called Pad Krapow Gai. This dish is made with red bell peppers, but you can serve it with other vegetables like air fryer frozen broccoli or garlic edamame. You can add a fried egg to make this dish extra filling and flavorful. It’s basically a chicken stir fry so add whatever you think would taste good! The more you add to the pan, the more flavors combine to make a delicious dish.

    Ingredients

    This Thai basil chicken is a simple recipe that you really can’t get wrong. These ingredients are simple and straightforward. If you can get the ingredients from an Asian market, the dish will taste much more traditional. You can find the measurements below in the recipe card.

    • Chicken Breasts: You can use chicken thighs, or even ground turkey instead.
    • Canola Oil: You can use vegetable oil instead. This is for cooking the chicken and veggies.
    • Shallot: They are a subtle flavor but add so much flavor to the chicken.
    • Red Peppers: Sweet bell peppers are the perfect thing to make with the chicken.
    • Thai Chili, or Serrano Pepper: A little heat really takes this dish to the next level! I think it tastes great with Thai chili or serrano chilis, so grab whatever you can find and it will be perfect.
    • Soy Sauce: This is a fermented soy bean sauce that is salty and so full of flavor.
    • Oyster Sauce: This is a sweet and salty sauce made mostly from oyster juices.
    • Fish Sauce: Fish sauce has a little fish flavor, but mostly it is salty and very umami.
    • Brown Sugar: A little brown sugar makes the sauce the perfect consistency and helps balance the sweetness.
    • Thai Basil: Thai holy basil is the type of basil that you will want to grab. You should be able to find it at your local Asian market.
    Process photos showing how to cook the ingredients in a wok.

    Recipe for Thai Basil Chicken

    I love how simple it is to make this Thai basil chicken. If you have a wok, this is a great recipe to make in it. It also works great in a skillet or cast iron pan. Whatever you use, make sure to heat the oil first before adding the chicken. Basil is a really fragile ingredient, so make sure you add it in after turning off the burner.

    1. Cook Chicken: Add the oil to the wok and heat over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 3-5 minutes until almost cooked through.
    2. Add Veggies: Add the minced garlic, shallots, and peppers. Stir fry until fork tender but still crisp.
    3. Whisk Sauce: To make the sauce, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, and brown sugar in a bowl. Whisk to combine.
    4. Add Sauce: Add the sauce and stir fry until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken.
    5. Add Basil: Turn off the heat and toss in the basil, reserving a few leaves for garnish. The heat will soften and wilt the basil leaves.
    6. Enjoy: Serve immediately with rice. Garnish with fresh basil leaves. Enjoy!
    A look at the Thai basil chicken in the wok.

    Tips for Making Thai Basil Chicken

    Making Thai basil chicken is really simple and so delicious. Here are a few tips for making this dish authentic and just the way you and your family like it!

    • Ground Turkey: This dish is often made with ground turkey. Use ground turkey or ground chicken instead of chicken breast. You can also make a ground beef dish (Thai Basil Beef) using the same ingredients and it’s amazing!
    • Sourcing Ingredients: This dish will taste more authentic if you get the ingredients from an Asian market. It can also be really fun to explore new marketplaces other than your regular grocery store. You will find lots of fresh produce and ingredients you can’t get anywhere else!
    • Add More Spice: This dish is traditionally spicy. If you want to add more spice, you can add more chili peppers. If you really want to turn up the heat, include the seeds. If you are on the other end and don’t want this dish spicy, you can leave out the spicy peppers.

    A close up of Thai basil chicken.

    Storing Leftovers

    Thai basil chicken makes great leftovers because it reheats really easily and tastes just as amazing a few days later. Here is how to store your leftovers.


    • Add the oil to the wok and heat over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 3-5 minutes until almost cooked through.

    • Add the minced garlic, shallots, and peppers. Stir fry until fork tender but still crisp.

    • To make the sauce, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, and brown sugar in a bowl. Whisk to combine.

    • Add the sauce and stir fry until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken.

    • Turn off the heat and toss in the basil, reserving a few leaves for garnish. The heat will soften and wilt the basil leaves.

    • Serve immediately with rice. Garnish with fresh basil leaves. Enjoy!



    Serves: 4

    Calories210kcal (11%)Carbohydrates11g (4%)Protein26g (52%)Fat7g (11%)Saturated Fat1g (5%)Polyunsaturated Fat1gMonounsaturated Fat3gTrans Fat0.01gCholesterol73mg (24%)Sodium1740mg (73%)Potassium561mg (16%)Fiber1g (4%)Sugar8g (9%)Vitamin A944IU (19%)Vitamin C29mg (35%)Calcium35mg (4%)Iron1mg (6%)

    All nutritional information is based on third party calculations and is only an estimate. Each recipe and nutritional value will vary depending on the brands you use, measuring methods and portion sizes per household.

    Course Dinner

    Cuisine Asian, Thai

    Keyword Thai basil chicken