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Now that the season for Backyard BBQ's and Picnics in the Park is in full swing, you've been asking us for some innovative potato salad recipes to pair with all those burgers, dogs, sandwiches and salads. So, we dove headfirst into our recipe database and found two new recipes that'll make your potato salad shine.
These recipes use flavorful ingredients not typically found in classic potato salad like chili powder, carrots, truffle oil and prosciutto. When combined in the right proportions, they had us wishing we'd discovered this earlier!
Pictured at the top is Spicy Potato Salad from MyRecipes.com. The dish gets its heat from chili powder and hot sauce, but adds even more flavor with ripe olives, corn and carrots.
We also like the Yukon Gold Potato Salad with Crispy Prosciutto and Truffle Oil from Epicurious, below. The ingredients in the title are incorporated into a light potato salad dressed with lemon juice and chicken broth.
Now that you have the recipes, it's time to start cooking and eating. Enjoy!
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You'll learn a lot during a quick trip to the Monterey Bay Aquarium. They have an amazing array of aquatic habitats with everything from sea horses and jelly fish to sharks and eels. But, as foodies we were very interested in the Seafood Watch handouts explaining which fish are best to eat based on their environmental impact.
Of everything on the list, we were pleasantly surprised to see that domestically caught swordfish is a decent choice (it's labeled a "Good Alternative", in between the "Best Choices" and ones to "Avoid"). Swordfish is a middle choice because it should still be eaten in moderation - as a fish at the top of the food chain it can accumulate mercury from feasting on smaller, contaminated fish. But, since we've been big fans of swordfish for a long time, we were glad to see it back on the good side again.
Pictured at the top is Grilled Chili-Garlic Swordfish and Bok Choy from Whole Foods Market. The dish is easy to prepare and makes great use of punchy Asian flavors for a tart and spicy combination.
We also like the Grilled Swordfish with Mango Salsa from Food52, below. In this recipe, the swordfish goes tropical as it's grilled and topped with a sweet and tangy fresh mango salsa.
So, the next time you hit the market pick up some swordfish fillets and whip up one of these simple and flavorful swordfish dishes. You'll be glad you did.
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Memorial Day couldn't have come at a better time - we love those 3 day holiday weekends! Memorial Day Weekend is the traditional start of grilling season. It's time to dig the grill out of the back of the garage, dust it off, and fire it up.
Everyone assumes this'll be a meat fest. And it will - we're definitely going to grill up plenty of burgers, dogs and chicken. But, we're also keeping an eye on dessert because the grill is a great place for fruit or even brownies.
Pictured at the top are Grilled Watermelon Sundaes from Food Network. Grill slices of watermelon for 2-3 minutes per side before adding them to a bowl with ice cream and topping them with whipped cream and homemade syrup.
We also like the Grill-Baked Brownies with Bing Cherry Ice Cream from Williams-Sonoma, below. These brownies are baked in a cast-iron biscuit pan in a covered outdoor grill. Once they're ready, top with a generous scoop of cherry ice cream.
Remember, after all the burgers and dogs are done, clean off the grill and fire up some fruit and brownies for dessert.
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When you're working hard during the day and then fitting in a workout in the evening, you're going to get hungry. That's when a quick, healthy snack packed with flavor and energy is exactly what you need.
While we used to reach for those processed granola or energy bars, we've found that a handful of homemade spiced nuts is better for so many reasons - they have the flavors we like, nuts are a great source of protein and healthy fats, plus they keep us fuller for longer.
Pictured at the top are Indian-Spiced Mixed Nuts from Williams-Sonoma. The recipe transforms plain mixed nuts by adding ginger, garam masala (and Indian spice blend), cumin and a hint of cayenne.
We also like the Garlicky Habanero Macadamia Nuts from Martha Stewart, below. Roasted macadamias are mixed with honey, garlic, habaneros and salt. The result is the perfect combination of salty, sweet and savory.
The next time you want a nutty and healthy snack packed with flavor and energy, whip up a batch of flavored nuts.
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We can't explain our food cravings, but every time we see Deviled Eggs, we need to have them! There's something we love about the contrast between the creamy filling and firm egg white. Plus, when we add tangy Dijon mustard and popular ingredients like bacon, shrimp and curry powder it's impossible to eat just one!
Pictured at the top are Herbed Deviled Eggs from Martha Stewart. The recipe features fresh parsley, thyme and chives alongside Dijon mustard and a touch of sherry vinegar.
We also like the Shrimp and Bacon Deviled Eggs from MyRecipes, below. Your guests will snap up these snacks with crispy bacon, tender shrimp and plenty of fresh herbs.
So, the next time you get a craving for Deviled Eggs, try out one of these new recipes.
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Sometimes it's hard to come up with good ideas for eating lunch in the office. Too often we default to bringing in leftovers we cooked the night before or random sandwiches. While both of those are still good choices, it's important to mix things up and keep them fresh. That's where a hearty salad comes in handy. They're easy to prepare and are a great way to use leftover dinner proteins.
Pictured at the top is the Grilled Chicken and Tomato Salad from MyRecipes. It features grilled chicken, cherry tomatoes, arugula, goat cheese and kalamata olives.
We also like the Steak and Goat Cheese Salad from Whole Foods Market, pictured below. It uses grilled sirloin, romaine, slivered carrots, goat cheese and a balsamic vinaigrette.
The next time you're looking for a hearty & healthy lunch, remember it's easy to make a salad and top it with your favorite grilled meat or tofu. Enjoy!
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Every once in a while we like to get the whole crew together for a weekend brunch. When we're cooking for a lot of people at once, it's too tough to make dozens of pancakes or individual omelets. Instead, we like Frittatas and other Baked Egg dishes.
Pictured at the top is the Spring Garden Frittata from Williams-Sonoma. It's loaded with fresh zucchini, peas, parsley, chives and onion.
We also like the Brunch Eggs from MyRecipes, pictured below. It has Canadian bacon, Swiss cheese and paprika.
Now all you have to do is pick your favorite Baked Egg dish and call a couple friends!
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Grilling adds amazing flavor to nearly everything we've tried, especially fresh veggies. Here's our take on the 5 best vegetables for grilling this summer.
One quick tip before you get started - if you're going to cook anything on a wooden skewer, soak the skewers in water for 30 minutes before they hit the grill to prevent them from burning.
1. Corn: toss the corn on the grill, husks and all. Cook for 15-20 minutes while turning occasionally for even cooking.
2. Asparagus: just coat in a bit of olive oil and grill for 6-12 minutes. They're done when you can pierce the bottom of the stalks with a sharp knife.
3. Mushrooms: Large mushrooms can be sliced and placed directly on the grates whereas smaller ones should be skewered so you don't lose 'em. Brush them all with oil before they hit the grill. Most will cook in under 15-20 minutes.
4. Zucchini: You can either slice them lengthwise and grill or cut them into cubes and use skewers. Cook until nicely browned.
5. Onions: Quickly cut them into thick slices, brush with oil and toss on the grill for around 15 minutes. They're great as a side or on a juicy burger or steak!
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Over the last couple weeks we've seen some creative, hot and new burger ideas that have us salivating. First, we like burgers with an Asian influence, especially wasabi mayo, ginger and miso. Second, if you're like us you always need a little extra spice, so don't be afraid to fire up some spicy burgers with hot sauce, jalapenos and chipotle mayo. Finally, it's always good to grill up some onions and add a sunny-side up egg on top. The egg adds extra moisture and the grilled onions add the perfect touch of sweetness.
Check out our burger recipe collection for more tasty ideas.
Sunny Side Up Burger (Food Network)
A perfectly cooked egg is magical on a burger.
Ingredients: Ground Beef, Garlic, Worcestershire, Lemon Juice, Mayo, Oil, Eggs, Texas Toast, Butter, EVOO, Hot Sauce, Salt and Pepper
Andouille & Beef Burgers with Spicy Mayo (Epicurious)
You'll love these spicy burgers with Andouille sausage.
Ingredients: Ground Beef, Onions, Lemon Juice, Creole Seasoning, Salt, Andouille, Okra, Watercress, Mayo, Pecans, Buns, Blue Cheese
Asian Pork Burgers with Kimchi (Steamy Kitchen)
Turns out that kimchi is a delicious condiment for burgers.
Ingredients: Ground Pork, Pepper, Brown Sugar, Egg, Fish Sauce, Garlic, Ginger, Kimchi, Scallion, Mayo
After seeing all these mouthwatering photos we're hungry again, so time to fire up the grill!
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May is National Barbecue Month and we couldn't be happier. Warmer weather is here, so there's plenty of time for hanging out in the backyard and experimenting with delicious food.
Most people mix up barbecue and grilling. While grilling involves cooking with charcoal or gas over high head, barbecue is slow and low. To cook authentic BBQ, you need to use low temperatures (in the low 200's) and cook things slowly, often over the course of more than 4 hours.
So, what's the best way to make delicious, smoked brisket? First, if you're going to trim the fat, leave at least a quarter-inch layer on top because fat equals flavor. Second, don't forget to layer on plenty of dry rub. Third, pick a good smoking wood, like hickory, oak or mesquite. Next, when slicing brisket, make sure to go against the grain for tender servings.
Texas Style Smoked Brisket (MyRecipes)
Texans know their brisket and this has a great dry rub.
Ingredients: Brown Sugar, Smoked Paprika, Black Pepper, Kosher Salt, Onion Powder, Chipotle Chiles, Onion, Cider Vinegar...
Smoked Carolina Beef Brisket (Williams-Sonoma)
Carolina BBQ has a dry rub and adds a vinegar-based sauce.
Ingredients: Beef Brisket, Kosher Salt, Ground Pepper, Vegetable Oil, Vinegar BBQ Sauce, Wood Chips, Corn
Northern California Smoked Brisket (Food Network)
In NorCal, we love to spice things up with dried chiles.
Ingredients: Anaheim, Ancho and Chipotle Chiles, Fennel & Coriander Seeds, Smoked Paprika, Garlic Powder, Brown Sugar...
We can't wait for the weekend so we can fire up the smoker!
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Now that spring is well underway and summer is right around the corner, it's time to fire up the grill and head to the backyard for some fun in the sun!
We love anything cooked on the grill for the great smoky flavor it adds. Of all the things you can make, hot dogs are probably the easiest to prep and assemble. You're well on your way after buying some high-quality dogs and buns. After that, we love making our own relish and offering a wide variety of toppings from mustard to ketchup to coleslaw and even mango chutney.
Here are three tasty hot dog recipes to get you going. For even more, check out our new recipe collection:
Grilled Hot Dogs with Homemade Pickle Relish (Food Network)
You and your guests will love the homemade relish.
Ingredients: Link Hot Dogs, Assorted Mustards, Hot Dog Buns, Homemade Pickle Relish (recipe follows), Ketchup
Grilled Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Hot Dogs (Simply Recipes)
These intense, bacon wrapped dogs are long on flavor.
Ingredients: Bacon, Cheddar Cheese, Dijon, Hot Dogs and Buns, Ketchup, Onion, Sauerkraut
Chicago-Style Hot Dogs (Williams-Sonoma)
This recipe comes from the experts in Chicago.
Ingredients: Chopped Onion, Tomato, Dill Pickles, Banana Peppers, Hot Dogs, Poppy Seed Buns, Mustard, Celery Salt
Now all you have to do is fire up the grill!
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With May underway, a bunch of new fruits and veggies are coming into season. We're especially excited for ripe & juicy apricots.
People have enjoyed apricots for thousands of years. They were introduced to Greece by Alexander the Great after traveling through Armenia and Persia. Besides their flavor, apricots are good for you - they're high in Vitamins A and C plus Iron.
Apricots are great in nearly every type of dish - use them as a topping for breakfast dishes like pancakes, waffles and french toast, in fresh salads, with meats, and for dessert. Here are 4 tasty apricot dishes to get you going:
Cinnamon Pancakes with Apricots (Cookstr)
Start your day in style with a great breakfast.
Ingredients: Flour, Baking Powder, Eggs, Lemon Juice, Sugar, Butter, Apricots, Buttermilk, Honey, Cinnamon
Arugula Salad with Chicken & Apricots (MyRecipes)
This entree salad hits all the right notes.
Ingredients: Parsley, Red Onion, Chicken Breast, Tarragon, Apricots, Olive Oil, Baby Arugula, Salad Green, White Wine Vinegar
Roast Pork with Apricot & Shallot Stuffing (Cookstr)
This stuffed, roast pork dish will be the star of any dinner party.
Ingredients: Pork Loin Roast, Shallots, Apricots, Parsley, Butter, Vegetable Oil, White Bread
Grilled Stone Fruit with Balsamic Glaze & Manchego (MyRecipes)
Any time you fire up the grill, don't forget about dessert.
Ingredients: Balsamic Vinegar, Manchego Cheese, Brown Sugar, EVOO, Apricots, Peaches, Plums, Salt
Now all you have to do is grab some fresh apricots and start cooking!
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We're already very excited to celebrate Cinco de Mayo on Saturday. So we have the energy to celebrate all day with friends and family we know a hearty breakfast is key. Luckily it's easy to whip up a tasty Mexican breakfast at home.
Our favorite Mexican breakfast dishes include Chilaquiles (eggs scrambled with tortilla chips), Mexican Eggs (with avocado, green onions and bacon), Breakfast Tacos (with chorizo and eggs) and Eggs Barbacoa (with stewed and seasoned beef):
Chilaquiles (Simply Recipes)
This recipe ensures a delicious and hearty breakfast.
Ingredients: Avocado, Cilantro, Corn tortillas, Crème fraîche, Epazote, Red chile sauce, Red onion, Salt
Chorizo & Scrambled Egg Breakfast Tacos (Epicurious)
Breakfast tacos are always fun to assemble and eat.
Ingredients: Cheddar cheese, Corn tortillas, Green onions, Eggs, Cilantro, Fresh Chorizo, Salsa, Sour cream
Mexican Eggs (MyRecipes)
Customize this Mexican eggs dish with all your favorite ingredients.
Ingredients: Avocado, Refried Beans, Tomato, Cilantro, Green Onion, Eggs, Bacon, Corn Tortillas
Eggs Barbacoa (MyRecipes)
We love the barbecued meat in this breakfast dish.
Ingredients: Pinto Beans, Beef Barbacoa, Queso Fresco, Cilantro, Green Onion, Eggs, Lime, Salsa, Corn Tortillas
Time to pick your favorite Mexican breakfast dish and start cooking!
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This year marks the 138th running of the Kentucky Derby, "The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports" or "The Fastest Two Minutes in Sports." (We like the second one better because it makes less sense.) The Derby is the first leg of the Triple Crown, which includes the Preakness and Belmont Stakes.
While it would be great to fly down to Kentucky to see the pomp and pageantry, we're happy to kick back in the comfort of our own homes with the Derby on the TV and a delicious Mint Julep in hand. Plus, we're gonna need some authentic southern snacks:
Mint Julep (Martha Stewart)
This classic cocktail is a Kentucky Derby tradition.
Ingredients: Bourbon, Crushed Ice, Sugar, Water, Mint Leaves
Cheddar Buttermilk Biscuits (AllRecipes.com)
Southerners take pride in their great biscuits.
Ingredients: Butter, Cheddar, Salt, Cayenne Pepper, Flour, Sugar, Buttermilk, Baking Powder
Kentucky Hot Brown (Food Network)
This smothered sandwich is a Kentucky classic.
Ingredients: Cheddar, Parmesan, Tomato, Bacon, Bread, Flat-leaf Parsley, Maple-Bourbon Roast Turkey
Derby Day Chocolate Chip Cookies (AllRecipes.com)
We plan to finish Derby Day with pecan-chocolate cookies.
Ingredients: Pecans, Chocolate Chips, Butter, Brown Sugar, Baking Soda, Salt, Flour, Eggs
Time to get ready for Derby Day!
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