A Couple Cooks https://www.acouplecooks.com/ Cook together, live better Wed, 31 Jul 2024 16:23:30 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.5 https://www.acouplecooks.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/cropped-favicon-32x32.png A Couple Cooks https://www.acouplecooks.com/ 32 32 Burrata Sandwich https://www.acouplecooks.com/burrata-sandwich/ https://www.acouplecooks.com/burrata-sandwich/#respond Wed, 31 Jul 2024 13:30:00 +0000 https://www.acouplecooks.com/?p=163205 This burrata sandwich is the sandwich of your dreams! Sink your teeth into this creamy, rich cheese paired with fresh basil, ripe tomatoes, and a smoky sundried tomato aioli on ciabatta bread. It’s a no cook meal that will impress anyone!

Burrata Sandwich

Why we love this recipe

Burrata cheese is one of Alex and my top taste treats of all time. Fresh mozzarella cheese with an ooey gooey center: what could be better? (Literally.) So here’s a next-level sandwich we designed around our favorite Italian ingredient.

This sandwich has got rich and creamy burrata cheese paired with a sweet ripe tomato, spicy pepperoncini, peppery arugula and basil. Slather the ciabatta bread with smoky sundried tomato aioli and add a drizzle of honey and wow. The contrast of flavors and textures makes us swoon on every bite! It’s the perfect summer dinner idea for meals al fresco with a glass of rosé.

Ingredients for this burrata sandwich

There are many ways to make a burrata sandwich, like pairing this creamy cheese with grilled vegetables or tomato confit. For our version, we like to keep it simple and no cook! Pair the cheese with simple, quality ingredients and flavor and texture contrasts to make the cheese shine. Here’s what we used:

  • Burrata cheese: Burrata is an Italian fresh mozzarella cheese filled with cream and cheese shreds. Tear it into pieces when adding it to a sandwich.
  • Ciabatta bread: You can use any type of artisan bread for this sandwich. Ciabatta works well, but you could also use no knead bread, sourdough bread, or focaccia bread.
  • Smoky sun dried tomato aioli: This homemade sundried tomato aioli takes the sandwich to a next level, made with mayo, sundried tomatoes, and smoked paprika.
  • Basil and arugula: Fresh basil and arugula add herbaceous, peppery notes. If you can’t find one or the other, you can omit. Sometimes we like dressing the arugula with a hint of olive oil and salt.
  • Honey: Honey adds a sweet element that adds intrigue to the flavors.
  • Ripe tomato: A ripe tomato is key for bringing this sandwich together.
  • Pepperoncini: Jarred pepperoncini add a tangy, spicy element to this sandwich that we think is essential. As a substitute, try chopped olives or tapenade.
Burrata Sandwich Ingredients

Where to find burrata?

Burrata is a fresh Italian cheese made from mozzarella and cream. It has a soft, creamy center and a delicate mozzarella shell. You can typically find it in the specialty cheese section of most grocery stores or at Italian markets.

Variations: more sandwich spread ideas

We love this burrata sandwich with our homemade smoky sun dried tomato aioli. But it also works with many other types of spreads. Here are a few ideas:

  • Aioli: Any type of aioli works well here. Try garlic aioli, basil aioli, or our favorite pesto aioli or truffle aioli.
  • Mayonnaise: To simplify, use any type of high quality mayonnaise.
  • Tapenade: The classic French olive tapenade spread of chopped olives also adds great flavor.
  • Olive salad: This olive salad recipe is traditionally used on a muffaletta sandwich, but it works well here.
Burrata Sandwich with hands.

Storing leftovers

This burrata sandwich is best freshly made. The sun dried tomato aioli can be made up to 5 days in advance and refrigerated.

You can store leftover bread, aioli, and vegetables separately in containers in the refrigerator, but make sure to eat any leftover burrata cheese within 1 day.

More burrata recipes

There are so many great ways to use this Italian cheese! Some of our favorite burrata recipes are a peach burrata salad, a simple salad with ripe fruit, burrata pasta, a deliciously creamy dinner, and burrata pizza, an over-the-top pizza night sensation.

Dietary notes

This burrata sandwich recipe is vegetarian. For gluten-free, use gluten-free bread.

Frequently asked questions

What can I substitute for burrata?

If you can’t find burrata, fresh mozzarella is a good substitute. You could also use a combination of fresh mozzarella and ricotta cheese for a similar creamy texture.

Can I use different herbs?

Absolutely! Experiment with different herbs like mint, thyme, tarragon, or chives to create your own unique flavor combinations.

How do I store leftover sandwich ingredients?

Store leftover bread, aioli, and vegetables separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The burrata should be consumed the same day for optimal freshness.

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Burrata Sandwich with hands.

Burrata Sandwich


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  • Author: Sonja Overhiser
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 2 sandwiches
Save Recipe

Description

This burrata sandwich is the sandwich of your dreams! Sink your teeth into this creamy, rich cheese paired with fresh basil, ripe tomatoes, and a smoky sundried tomato aioli on ciabatta bread. It’s a delicious no cook meal!


Ingredients

  • 1 large ciabatta bread (12 inches long) or 2 small rolls (6 inches long)
  • 1 ball burrata cheese
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • ¼ cup chopped sundried tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 2 pinches smoked salt (or salt)
  • 1 large handful basil
  • 1 large handful arugula
  • Honey
  • 1 large ripe tomato, sliced
  • 1 handful jarred pepperoncini

Instructions

  1. Cut bread into a 6-inch wide piece (making 2 sandwiches), then slice each in half. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil to a cast iron pan or skillet over medium heat and add the ciabatta bread, interior side facing down. Toast for 1 to 2 minutes. Sprinkle with salt.
  2. To make the sundried tomato aioli, stir together the mayonnaise, chopped sundried tomatoes, smoked paprika, and smoked salt.
  3. To build the sandwich, for each sandwich spread both cut sides of the bread with the aioli. Add pepperoncini, then tomato slices (topped with a pinch of salt or smoked salt), torn burrata cheese, a drizzle of honey, basil leaves, 1 handful of arugula, and the other piece of bread. This sandwich is best freshly made. Aioli can be made up to 5 days in advance and refrigerated.
  • Category: Main dish
  • Method: No cook
  • Cuisine: Sandwich
  • Diet: Vegetarian
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25 High Protein Vegetarian Meals https://www.acouplecooks.com/high-protein-vegetarian-meals/ https://www.acouplecooks.com/high-protein-vegetarian-meals/#respond Tue, 30 Jul 2024 19:39:41 +0000 https://www.acouplecooks.com/?p=162887 These delicious and satisfying high protein vegetarian meals work for meatless Mondays or any day of the week! These recipes are packed with vegetarian protein sources to keep you feeling full and energized. Each one has been tested and approved by our family!

High protein vegetarian meals

Looking to pack protein into your meals but don’t eat meat? As two vegetarian cookbook authors, Alex and I have learned that meat isn’t necessary for a filling, protein-packed meal!

Over the decade of writing this food blog specializing in vegetarian and vegan meals, we’ve found so many tricks to making filling high protein vegan and vegetarian recipes. Here’s a list of our top high protein vegetarian meals that our family loves! Each one has been tested by a real family (us!) and they are listed with protein amounts.

What is a high protein vegetarian meal?

Per Mayo Clinic, general recommendations are to consume 15–30 grams of protein at each meal. Each one of the recipes below has at least 15 grams of protein per serving for the main dish. You can add additional protein into the meal by serving with protein-packed side dishes.

Protein packed vegetarian ingredients

Before we get to the recipes, here are some powerhouse protein-packed ingredients you’ll see featured in these high protein vegetarian meals:

  • Cheese, yogurt, and milk: Cottage cheese, ricotta cheese, Greek yogurt, other cheeses, and milk are excellent sources of vegetarian protein. See our top Cottage Cheese Recipes.
  • Legumes: Lentils, chickpeas, black beans, kidney beans, and other legumes are protein superstars. Toss them in salads, soups, stews, or curries for a hearty dose of protein. See our top Lentil Recipes and Black Bean Recipes.
  • Tofu and tempeh: Tofu and tempeh are high protein plant based foods. Scramble tofu for breakfast, grill tempeh for a satisfying sandwich, or add it to stir-fries for a protein boost. See our top Tofu Recipes.
  • Nuts and seeds: Almonds, cashews, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, chia seeds, and hemp seeds are packed with protein and healthy fats. Sprinkle them on salads, yogurt, or oatmeal, or blend them into smoothies to amp the protein.
  • Quinoa: This ancient grain is a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids. Use it as a base for grain bowls, stuff it in vegetables, or toss it in salads.

And now, our top 25 high protein vegetarian meals!

Frequently asked questions

Is it difficult to get enough protein on a vegetarian diet?

Not at all! Plenty of plant-based foods are packed with protein. By incorporating a variety of protein-rich ingredients like cheese, milk, legumes, tofu, tempeh, nuts, seeds, and quinoa into your meals, you can easily meet your daily protein needs.

Do I need to combine certain plant-based proteins to get all the essential amino acids?

While it’s true that some plant-based proteins are not complete proteins (meaning they lack one or more essential amino acids), you don’t need to worry about combining specific foods at each meal. As long as you eat a varied diet throughout the day, you’ll get all the amino acids your body needs.

Are high-protein vegetarian meals expensive?

Many protein-rich vegetarian ingredients like lentils, beans, and tofu are quite affordable. Plus, by cooking at home and focusing on whole foods, you can save money compared to eating out or relying on processed vegetarian products.

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High protein vegetarian meals

25 High Protein Vegetarian Meals


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No reviews

  • Author: Sonja Overhiser
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 6
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Description

These delicious and satisfying high protein vegetarian meals work for meatless Mondays or any day of the week! These recipes are packed with vegetarian protein sources to keep you feeling full and energized. These lasagna roll ups are a fun way to serve this iconic dish: roll the noodles around the filling for tasty and fun dinner recipe!


Ingredients

  • 12 lasagna noodles (10 ounces)
  • 28-ounce can fire roasted crushed tomatoes*
  • 1 garlic clove, grated
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano, divided
  • 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt, divided
  • 10 ounces frozen spinach
  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped, plus more for garnish
  • 15 ounces ricotta cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups whole milk mozzarella cheese, divided
  • ½ teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 egg
  • Chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)
  •  

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.
  2. Boil the noodles: Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. Boil the noodles until just al dente, according to the package instructions, stirring often. Drain the noodles, then drizzle a baking sheet with a bit of olive oil. Lay the noodles flat onto the sheet, then turn them over so they become coated with olive oil to prevent sticking.
  3. Meanwhile, make the tomato sauce: In a medium bowl, mix the fire roasted tomatoes, grated garlic, olive oil, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, and ¾ teaspoon kosher salt. Mix well until all the olive oil is incorporated.
  4. Make the filling: Thaw the spinach following the package instructions, then squeeze out as much water as possible with your fingers (the spinach should feel dry and crumbly before using it). In a medium bowl, mix it with the basil, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, ½ cup mozzarella cheese, lemon zest, egg, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, ¾ teaspoon kosher salt, and fresh ground pepper.
  5. Roll the noodles: Spread half the tomato sauce in the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch baking dish. On a baking sheet, place 4 noodles. Spread ¼ cup cheese mixture down each noodle, then top with a bit of tomato sauce (see the photos). Gently roll up each noodle, then place the noodle roll into the baking dish. Repeat for each of the noodles. 
  6. Finish: Once all noodles are rolled and in the baking dish, pour the remaining tomato sauce on top, and sprinkle the remaining 1 ½ cups mozzarella on top. 
  7. Bake: Cover the pan with foil (so it’s not touching the cheese) and bake for 20 minutes. Uncover the foil and bake for 10 minutes. If desired, broil 2 minutes until the cheese is browned. Garnish with chopped parsley or basil and serve. Leftovers last refrigerated for 4 days; reheat in a 375°F oven until warmed through. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 3 months.

Notes

*If desired, you can use purchased marinara sauce instead of making your own. If using purchased marinara, still add the 1 clove grated garlic and 1 teaspoon dried oregano to enhance the flavor.

  • Category: Main dish
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: Italian inspired
  • Diet: Vegetarian
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Snickerdoodle Zucchini Bread https://www.acouplecooks.com/snickerdoodle-zucchini-bread/ https://www.acouplecooks.com/snickerdoodle-zucchini-bread/#comments Tue, 30 Jul 2024 13:00:00 +0000 https://www.acouplecooks.com/?p=163003 This snickerdoodle zucchini bread combines two cozy baked goods into the perfect blend of sweet and spice! The moist zucchini bread gets a warm, cinnamon-sugar twist so it tastes a bit like your favorite cookie—but better.

Snickerdoodle Zucchini Bread

Why we love this recipe

If you love snickerdoodles and zucchini bread: why not enjoy both at once? Welcome to the magic of snickerdoodle zucchini bread, which became an instant favorite in our house! This loaf is moist and sweet, swirled with cinnamon and topped with crunchy cinnamon sugar so it tastes like that cozy cookie.

We created this recipe to use up a bunch zucchini our neighbor gave us from her garden. Since we already have recipes for zucchini bread, lemon zucchini bread, and chocolate zucchini bread, we were looking for something a little different. This sweetly spiced spin won us over.

“This is a delicious zucchini bread and lends itself quite nicely to the snickerdoodle flavor profile! And it’s even better on day 2 – I had some with breakfast this morning 😍.” -Valerie

Ingredient notes for snickerdoodle zucchini bread

Snickerdoodle zucchini bread is a simple spin on the classic zucchini bread recipe. It’s a quick bread, meaning it’s baked without yeast (like pumpkin bread, banana bread, apple bread, and others). If you love to make baked goods, it’s a fun thing to bake that feels fancier than it is! Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Butter and neutral oil: The combination of the two makes an ultra-moist bread. Use organic grapeseed or vegetable oil. If desired, you can substitute olive oil, though it may add a slightly bitter undertone.
  • Zucchini: Use a large grater to grate the zucchini. Do not squeeze out the water: you’ll need all the moisture for the bread.
  • Eggs, milk, flour, sugar, salt, baking powder, and baking soda: These are all the classic baking ingredients that you might already have on hand. Milk can be any type.
  • Cinnamon: The cinnamon here is used both in the bread and a cinnamon sugar swirl. It makes a lovely ribbon through the bread!
  • Cream of tartar: This is optional, but cream of tartar is classically used in snickerdoodles. If you have it on hand, it’s fun to add here: but the difference it adds is minor.

How to make a cinnamon swirl

This snickerdoodle zucchini bread is special because it has a cinnamon swirl through the middle. You’ll add half the batter to the pan, top with cinnamon sugar, then add the other half of batter and more cinnamon sugar. Here’s how to make the swirl:

  • Insert a butter knife in the top corner of the pan so it just touches the bottom.
  • Draw a large S shapes across the entire pan.
snickerdoodle zucchini bread cinnamon swirl

Tips for baking snickerdoodle zucchini bread

Here are a few more tips for making sure this bread comes out perfectly moist:

  • This recipe works in a 9 x 5 inch or 8 x 4 inch loaf pan. If baking in an 8 x 4 inch pan, you may need to increase the baking time slightly.
  • Avoid draining or squeezing out the zucchini. This recipe is optimized to use all the liquid content in the zucchini.
  • Brushing with butter after baking and adding more cinnamon sugar seals the deal. This makes for the most cinnamon sugary flavor and crunchy topping.
Snickerdoodle Zucchini Bread slices.

Storing leftovers

This snickerdoodle zucchini bread stores well. Keep it up to 3 days at room temperature wrapped in aluminum foil, 1 week refrigerated, or up to 3 months frozen. 

More zucchini recipes

There are so many zucchini recipes to use this versatile vegetable. Make it into a main dish with zucchini lasagna or stuffed zucchini boats, or try it as an appetizer with zucchini fritters. Bake it into zucchini bread, zucchini muffins, or zucchini brownies.

There are also so many tasty zucchini bread variations: our top four are lemon, chocolate, banana, and chocolate chip.

Dietary notes

This snickerdoodle zucchini bread recipe is vegetarian. For vegan, substitute a flax egg and use vegan butter.

Frequently asked questions

Can I make this bread without cream of tartar?

Yes, you can omit the cream of tartar if you don’t have it on hand.

Do I need to peel the zucchini?

No, you don’t need to peel the zucchini. Just wash it thoroughly, trim the ends, and grate it.

Can I add other ingredients to the bread?

You can get creative with add-ins. Chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) or cinnamon chips would be delicious additions.

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Snickerdoodle Zucchini Bread

Snickerdoodle Zucchini Bread


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

5 from 2 reviews

  • Author: Sonja Overhiser
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Yield: 12 slices
Save Recipe

Description

This snickerdoodle zucchini bread combines two cozy baked goods into the perfect blend of sweet and spice! The moist zucchini bread gets a warm, cinnamon-sugar twist so it tastes a bit like your favorite cookie—but better.


Ingredients

For the zucchini bread

  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • ⅓ cup neutral oil (like grapeseed or vegetable oil)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ¼ teaspoon cream of tartar, optional
  • 2 teaspoons cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • 2 cups [280 g] all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups shredded zucchini, packed (about 3/4 pound or 2 medium zucchini), grated with large grater

For the cinnamon sugar and topping

  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon butter

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Butter or oil a 9 x 5-inch loaf pan.
  2. Melt the butter, then whisk in the oil, granulated sugar, eggs, milk, vanilla, baking powder, baking soda, cream of tartar, cinnamon, and salt. 
  3. Use a spatula to mix in the flour and zucchini until just combined, mixing just until there are no longer streaks of dry ingredients. 
  4. In a small bowl, mix the 1 tsp cinnamon and ½ cup sugar for the cinnamon sugar (reserve the butter for after baking). Pour the half the batter into the prepared loaf pan, then sprinkle ⅓ of the sugar mixture evenly on top. Add the other half of the batter, smoothing it with a spatula. Top with another ⅓ of the mixture. Insert a butter knife into the batter in the top corner of the pan and draw an S shapes through the pan to swirl. Reserve the remaining cinnamon sugar. 
  5. Bake 55 to 65 minutes until golden brown and the top springs back when touched (insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf: if it comes out with a few clinging crumbs, it’s done!). While the bread is still warm, melt the 1 tablespoon butter and brush it into the top of the loaf, then sprinkle on the remaining ⅓ cinnamon sugar. 
  6. Cool in the pan for 1 hour. Then run a knife around the edge and invert the loaf onto a cooling rack. Serve warm or at room temperature. The bread keeps up to 3 days at room temperature wrapped in aluminum foil, 1 week refrigerated, or up to 3 months frozen. 

Notes

Use all the moisture from the zucchini in this recipe, since its liquid quantity is required for the bread (do not drain). 

  • Category: Bread
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: Quick Bread
  • Diet: Vegetarian
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Peach Burrata Salad https://www.acouplecooks.com/peach-burrata-salad/ https://www.acouplecooks.com/peach-burrata-salad/#respond Mon, 29 Jul 2024 13:00:00 +0000 https://www.acouplecooks.com/?p=162901 This peach burrata salad is one of the simplest, best ways to use this seasonal fruit! Juicy ripe peaches, creamy rich cheese, fresh basil, and a drizzle of olive oil and vinegar make each bite a masterpiece. This one is a must-make summer recipe!

Peach Burrata Salad

Why we love this recipe

Peach season is glorious, and what better way to enjoy it than a peach burrata salad? Eating sweet, ripe juicy peaches with creamy, rich burrata cheese is one of life’s great pleasures. Top it with fresh basil, olive oil, and balsamic, and each bite will make you melt.

As two cookbook authors, this is at the top of our summer must-makes. It is absolutely heavenly and so simple to put together—it’s not even really a recipe, more of a combination of stellar ingredients. The candied pepitas are a fun addition inspired by a salad we had at a restaurant; you can substitute purchased roasted salted pepitas or simply omit. Either way, anyone who tastes a bite of this one will rave.

Ingredient notes for peach burrata salad

Peach burrata salad is all about celebrating ripe, beautiful peaches: the perfect summer salad recipe idea. Here are a few notes about the ingredients in this “recipe” (which is really more of an idea):

  • Ripe peaches: Use only ripe, juicy in-season peaches. You may want to taste a slice before making (we’ve had some mealy peaches that feel ripe but don’t taste sweet).
  • Burrata cheese: Burrata is an Italian fresh mozzarella cheese filled with cream and cheese shreds. When you cut into the ball, the creamy cheese comes spilling out: perfect for topping salads, pasta, and pizza.
  • Fresh basil: Using fresh basil makes this similar to a peach caprese salad, but with burrata cheese. You can also top with other herbs like fresh thyme, chives, or tarragon.
  • Olive oil: A drizzle of olive oil adds richness and flavor.
  • Balsamic vinegar or balsamic reduction: A little drizzle of balsamic vinegar works, but can taste strong so don’t add too much. We like purchased balsamic reduction since it’s thicker and sweeter, or you can make your own balsamic reduction.
  • Flaky salt: We like topping with flaky salt because it makes pops of salty flavor. Our favorite is smoked flaky salt, which infuses another flavor component.
  • Pepitas: These are optional, but add a nice crunchy element. Roasted salted pepitas are easy to find at the store. You can also make candied pepitas: see below! You could also try any type of chopped nut.
Peaches

Tips for ripening peaches

Peaches can be a touchy fruit, and you want the very best ripe peaches for this peach burrata salad. To check ripeness, give the peach a gentle squeeze. It should be slightly soft to the touch. If it feels firm, it will need a few days to ripen. Here’s how to ripen peaches:

  • Place the peaches in a paper bag.
  • Add a banana inside the bag. The banana emits ethylene gas, which helps the peaches ripen at the same time.
  • Gently close the top of the bag and wait 1 to 3 days, depending on the ripeness of the peaches. Check each day by gently squeezing the fruit to see if the flesh feels soft.

To make candied pepitas

We recently had candied pepitas in a salad a restaurant, and loved the pop of crunchy, salty sweet flavor. This peach burrata salad is great with them, though you can use any sort of crunchy topper or omit. If you’d like to try them, here’s what we did:

  • Place ½ cup raw pepitas in skillet over medium heat for 5 to 6 minutes until they start to pop and brown (you can also use roasted salted; skip this step and omit the salt in the next step). Remove into a bowl.
  • Place ¼ cup brown sugar and ½ tablespoon water into the same skillet and stir until it melts. Add the pepitas and ¼ teaspoon salt and stir for 1 to 2 minutes until coated and sticky. Remove to parchment paper in a single layer. Allow to cool until dry, about 1 hour.
Peach Burrata Salad on plate.

More recipes with burrata

There are so many great ways to use burrata cheese. We love it best in burrata pasta with tomato sauce, or on a gooey burrata pizza. Of course, it’s classic in a burrata salad with peppery arugula. Here are all of our favorite burrata recipes to browse!

Dietary notes

This peach burrata salad is vegetarian and gluten-free.

Frequently asked questions

What is burrata cheese, and where can I find it?

Burrata is a fresh Italian cheese made from mozzarella and cream. It has a soft, creamy center and a delicate mozzarella shell. You can typically find it in the specialty cheese section of most grocery stores or at Italian markets.

What kind of peaches are best for this salad?

Look for peaches that are fragrant, slightly soft to the touch, and have a deep golden color. You can use either yellow or white peaches, depending on your preference.

What other ingredients can I add to this salad?

This salad is incredibly versatile! You can add a variety of fresh herbs like basil, mint, or tarragon, or try adding some chopped nuts like pistachios, almonds, or walnuts for a bit of crunch. Grilled corn and prosciutto are also delicious additions.

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Peach Burrata Salad

Peach Burrata Salad


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Sonja Overhiser
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: 2 to 4 servings
Save Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 to 3 large ripe peaches
  • 1 handful cherry tomatoes, sliced
  • 1 to 2 balls burrata cheese (use 2 balls for 4 servings)
  • 1 handful basil leaves
  • Olive oil 
  • Balsamic vinegar or balsamic reduction
  • Flaky sea salt (smoked, if desired)
  • 1 handful pepitas, roasted or candied (optional; see Notes)

Instructions

  1. Slice the peaches. (Use up to 3 peaches for 4 servings; you can eye-ball the quantities based on the size of the fruit.)
  2. On a platter or separate plates, place the peach slices. Break the burrata into chunks with your hands and place it over the top (using 1 ball for 2 servings or 2 balls for 4 servings).
  3. Top with a few sliced cherry tomatoes, basil leaves, a drizzle of olive oil, a tiny drizzle of balsamic vinegar or balsamic reduction, and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. If desired, top with roasted salted or candied pepitas.

Notes

Roasted salted pepitas are easy to find at the store. If all you can find is raw pepitas, place them in a skillet over medium heat for 5 to 6 minutes until they start to pop and brown. Remove into a bowl.

Or make candied pepitas: Place ½ cup raw pepitas in skillet over medium heat for 5 to 6 minutes until they start to pop and brown (you can also use roasted salted; skip this step and omit the salt in the next step). Remove into a bowl. Place ¼ cup brown sugar and ½ tablespoon water into the same skillet and stir until it melts. Add the pepitas and ¼ teaspoon salt and stir for 1 to 2 minutes until coated and sticky. Remove to parchment paper in a single layer. Allow to cool until dry, about 1 hour.

  • Category: Salad
  • Method: No Cook
  • Cuisine: Salad
  • Diet: Vegetarian
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Linguine Pasta with Garlic & Herbs https://www.acouplecooks.com/linguine-pasta/ https://www.acouplecooks.com/linguine-pasta/#comments Wed, 24 Jul 2024 13:30:00 +0000 https://www.acouplecooks.com/?p=162859 Try this simple and delicious linguine recipe with garlic and herbs! Parmesan cheese, fragrant garlic, and fresh herbs flavor a luscious cream sauce that perfectly coats the pasta. Serve it as a side dish, or stir in cooked protein to turn it into a main!

Linguine Recipe

Why we love this recipe

Here’s a pasta recipe that’s endlessly customizable—and don’t you want to dive right into that bowl? This linguine pasta is a burst of flavor: garlic, Parmesan cheese, fresh basil and chives, and a hint of cream make a luscious sauce that makes you melt into each bite.

Alex and I created this linguine recipe to work for a variety of occasions. It’s great for summer with the fresh herbs: you can add sliced cherry tomatoes for a vegetarian main dish, or add protein like pan seared chicken or sauteed shrimp. It’s also a great side dish for grilled salmon or veggie kabobs. This one’s a family favorite! (Because white sauce pasta? Yum.)

“This sauce is so creamy and deliciously bright! A surprising summer pasta dish. Fresh herbs and tomatoes add a beautiful pop of both color and flavor. Another quick and deliciously seasoned recipe!” -Renata

Ingredient notes for linguine pasta

Linguine is quick and simple, and this recipe comes together in under 30 minutes. Like any Italian recipe, it’s all about quality of the ingredients! Here are some tips on ingredients and substitutions:

  • Linguine: Linguine is a long pasta shape similar to fettuccine, but thinner and elliptical shaped instead of flat. It works well with vegetables and creamy sauces, just like fettuccine. (We like it even better than fettuccine because it’s lighter!)
  • Fresh garlic: Don’t make this pasta sauce without the fresh garlic: it’s a must for that aromatic flavor.
  • Fresh herbs: Fresh herbs are another must here. We used basil and chives, but it’s also great with oregano, tarragon, thyme, and fresh dill.
  • Lemon zest: Lemon zest also infuses a big amount of citrus flavor.
  • Milk, cream, Parmesan, Pecorino, and Italian seasoning: This simple mixture makes the base of the sauce. Pecorino cheese is an aged cheese similar to Parmesan, but the bold, salty flavor enhances the sauce even more. We think it’s essential if you can find it!
Linguine Pasta

Ways to make it a main dish

This linguine pasta is simple as is, and works as a side dish to grilled chicken, grilled fish, grilled shrimp, and more. Or, you can do the following to make a main dish pasta:

Shrimp Linguine

Shrimp linguine is a great way to serve this pasta as a main dish

Other pasta shapes

If you love this recipe and don’t have linguine on hand, you can use other long pasta shapes like spaghetti or bucatini. Short pasta shapes work as well with the sauce flavoring, like orecchiette, penne, cavatappi, or gemelli.

Storing leftovers

This linguine recipe tastes best freshly made: the sauce tastes the best and creamiest right out of the pan. We don’t recommend making this recipe ahead, though you can portion out the sauce ingredients and mince the garlic in advance, storing refrigerated until cooking.

Leftovers last refrigerated for up to 3 days. If you can, save some of the pasta water and add it when reheating to make the sauce creamy again.

More pasta recipes

Love pasta recipes? Here are some favorites:

Dietary notes

This linguine pasta recipe is vegetarian. For gluten-free, use gluten-free linguine.

Frequently asked questions

What herbs work best for this dish?

You can experiment with basil, parsley, chives, oregano, thyme, or a combination of your favorite herbs.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It’s best to enjoy this pasta dish freshly made for the most vibrant flavors. For make ahead prep, you can portion out the sauce ingredients and mince the garlic in advance, storing refrigerated until cooking.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

It’s not recommended to freeze the cooked pasta: this dish is best freshly made.

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Linguine Recipe

Linguine with Garlic & Herbs


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

5 from 1 review

  • Author: Sonja Overhiser
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4
Save Recipe

Description

Try this simple and delicious linguine recipe with garlic and herbs! Parmesan cheese, fragrant garlic, and fresh herbs flavor the luscious cream sauce that perfectly coats the pasta. Serve it as a side dish, or stir in cooked protein to turn it into a main!


Ingredients

  • 8 ounces linguine
  • 2 tablespoons salted butter
  • 4 garlic cloves, finely minced
  • Zest from 1 lemon (about 1 teaspoon)
  • 1 cup 2% milk
  • ¼ cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons grated Pecorino (optional but recommended)
  • ½ tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
  • Fresh ground pepper, to taste
  • ¼ cup chopped herbs (basil and chives, or parsley)
  • Optional add-ins: sliced cherry tomatoes, pan seared chicken, sauteed shrimp

Instructions

  1. Start a large pot of generously salted water to a boil. Add the linguine pasta and boil until al dente (check a few minutes before the package instructions indicate and taste to assess doneness). Before draining, reserve about ½ cup pasta water. Then drain the pasta and return it to the pot. Toss with a little olive oil if the sauce is not yet ready. 
  2. In a very large skillet, heat the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and lemon zest and stir briefly. Add the milk, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Pecorino cheese, Italian seasoning, and ¾ teaspoon kosher salt and cook for about 2 minutes until the cheese has melted. In a small bowl, mix the flour with 1 tablespoon water. Pour it into the pan with the sauce, then stir at a simmer for 1 to 2 minutes until it thickens.  
  3. Taste and add one more pinch of salt. Pour the sauce into the pot with the pasta and stir in the chopped fresh herbs (and any add-ins, if using). Enjoy immediately; the pasta tastes best freshly made. Leftovers last refrigerated for up to 3 days. If you can, save some of the pasta water and add it when reheating to make the sauce creamy again.
  • Category: Main or side dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian inspired
  • Diet: Vegetarian
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Chicken Thighs with Peaches https://www.acouplecooks.com/chicken-thighs-with-peaches/ https://www.acouplecooks.com/chicken-thighs-with-peaches/#comments Tue, 23 Jul 2024 13:00:00 +0000 https://www.acouplecooks.com/?p=162805 The sweet and savory combination of chicken thighs with peaches makes an over-the-top delicious one pan meal! This easy dinner idea pairs rich, savory chicken with the juicy sweetness of peaches and sprinkle of fresh herbs for a bright, aromatic touch. This one is a family favorite!

Chicken Thighs with Peaches

Why we love this recipe

Our favorite meals are the ones with simple and unusual flavor combinations, and here’s one that’s a perfect summer dinner idea: chicken thighs with peaches! This one pan meal is beautiful and beyond delicious, pairing the rich and succulent flavor of chicken thighs with juicy peaches and fresh summer herbs. Alex created this recipe and “Wow wow wow” is all we could say as we shoveled bites out of the pan!

This meal comes together in about 30 minutes, and it’s as simple as browning the chicken thighs, then adding peach slices and cooking with balsamic, brown sugar, and herbs until the chicken is golden and the peaches are tender and their juices make a delicious pan sauce. Serve it with rice and a summer salad for a laid-back patio meal!

Ingredient notes for chicken thighs with peaches

This recipe comes together simply in about 30 minutes! Here are a few notes for the ingredients:

  • Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Chicken thighs are famously more flavorful than chicken breasts because of their higher fat content. We suggest boneless thighs here because they cook faster. You can substitute bone-in thighs, just cook them longer in the final step (see the notes below).
  • Peaches: Use only ripe, sweet peaches for this recipe! The flavor won’t come out if the peaches are sub-par.
  • Balsamic vinegar, butter, and brown sugar: These are the keys to bringing out that sweet and savory combination of flavors. If your peaches are very sweet, you can omit the brown sugar.
  • Herbs: We like using a combination of basil and thyme. Any savory herb works well here, like tarragon, oregano, parsley, or rosemary. 
Peaches

How to ripen peaches

To check ripeness of a peach, give it a gentle squeeze. It should be slightly soft to the touch. If it feels firm, it will need a few days to ripen. Here’s how to ripen peaches:

  • Place the peaches in a paper bag.
  • Add a banana inside the bag. The banana emits ethylene gas, which helps the peaches ripen at the same time.
  • Gently close the top of the bag and wait 1 to 3 days, depending on the ripeness of the peaches. Check each day by gently squeezing the fruit to see if the flesh feels soft.

Fresh peach substitutes: canned vs frozen

We like this recipe best with fresh peaches. But canned peaches work too! You can use either “no sugar added” or sweetened peaches (if desired, you can consider omitting the brown sugar if they are sweetened).

Other options are frozen fresh peaches or frozen peaches, though we find that store-bought frozen peaches don’t have great flavor (we like them in a peach smoothie, though!).

Chicken Thighs with Peaches

What to serve with chicken thighs with peaches

This one pan dinner makes a simple meal, served with rice or a salad! Here are a few ideas for what to serve with chicken thighs with peaches:

More peach recipes

When it’s the season, it’s an excuse to make all the peach recipes! Try our peach crumble, peach crisp, peach galette, or my mom’s famous fresh peach pie. Or try a peach salad, peach ice cream, or peach cocktails.

Dietary notes

This chicken thighs with peaches recipe is gluten-free. For dairy-free, use olive oil or vegan butter.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use frozen peaches?

Yes, but the flavor won’t be as good. We suggest using canned peaches as a substitute.

What other herbs can I use besides thyme and basil?

Rosemary, oregano, or tarragon would also complement the flavors of this dish.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can cook the chicken and peaches ahead of time and reheat them gently before serving.

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Chicken Thighs with Peaches

Chicken Thighs with Peaches


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Sonja Overhiser
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4
Save Recipe

Description

The sweet and savory combination of chicken thighs with peaches makes an over-the-top delicious one pan meal! This easy dinner idea pairs rich, savory chicken with the juicy sweetness of peaches and sprinkle of fresh herbs for a bright, aromatic touch. This one is a family favorite!


Ingredients

  • 8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 2 pounds, see Notes)
  • 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons salted butter
  • 2 ripe peaches, sliced (see Notes)
  • 1 teaspoon brown sugar
  • 1 handful fresh basil and thyme, chopped plus more for garnish (or other fresh herbs; see Notes)

Instructions

  1. Remove any excess fat on the chicken thighs and place them on a cutting board. Stir together the salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and oregano. Sprinkle the seasoning mix on all sides of the chicken thighs.
  2. Add the olive oil to a large skillet and heat over medium-high heat. Place the chicken thighs smooth side down and cook until golden brown, about 6 to 8 minutes. Remove to a plate.
  3. Reduce the heat to medium and add the balsamic vinegar and butter to the pan. Scrape the pan to pick up flavor bits, then add the peaches in a single layer and sauté for 1 to 3 minutes, until slightly softened (timing depends on the texture of the peaches). 
  4. Stir the brown sugar and herbs into the peaches, and return the chicken thighs with their juices to the pan. Cook for another 6 to 7 minutes until peaches are tender and chicken internal temperature is measured at least 165°F on a food thermometer. Remove from heat and rest 5 minutes before serving for maximum juiciness. Store leftovers up to 3 days refrigerated. 

Notes

You can substitute bone-in chicken thighs, but you’ll need to add a few minutes to the cook time in Step 4: cook until the chicken internal temperature is 165°F when measured at the thickest point. 

Use only the ripest peaches. See Notes above on how to ripen peaches. If the peaches are very ripe and sweet, you can omit the brown sugar if desired. Canned peaches work as a substitute. 

Any savory herb works well here, like tarragon, oregano, parsley, or rosemary. 

  • Category: Main dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Chicken
  • Diet: Gluten Free
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Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies https://www.acouplecooks.com/brown-butter-chocolate-chip-cookies/ https://www.acouplecooks.com/brown-butter-chocolate-chip-cookies/#comments Mon, 22 Jul 2024 13:00:00 +0000 https://www.acouplecooks.com/?p=162742 These brown butter chocolate chip cookies are over the top: big and chewy, with nutty brown butter, chocolate chunks, topped with flaky sea salt (Nutella swirl optional). Our friends and family agree, this is one outrageously delicious cookie!

Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies topped with sea salt.

Why we love this recipe

There are cookies, and then there are these brown butter chocolate chip cookies. They’re big and chewy, with nutty brown butter and a hint of Nutella, topped with caramel dark chocolate chunks and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. Oh, my. It’s no exaggeration to say this is our favorite cookie recipe we’ve created!

This recipe is inspired by the bakery cookies we ate on a recent trip to Paris. Bakery cookies in Paris are large and perfectly round with raised edges. How did they do it? Alex and I had to find out. We made this recipe many times and had it tested by multiple recipe testers who confirm: it’s one over-the-top delicious bakery chocolate chip cookie!

“This brown butter chocolate chip cookie was hands-down the best cookie I ever had. I literally woke up this morning wishing I could have one for breakfast! It was scrumptious, chewy, and just SO good.” -L.

“These were perhaps the best looking and tasting cookies I’ve ever made!” -Kelly

After we tasted bakery chocolate chip cookies in Paris, Alex and I were on a mission to find out: how did they make them perfectly round with raised edges? We asked a local pastry company if they had any ideas, and they said: cookie molds!

Baking cookies in silicone molds makes perfectly round cookies with raised edges. In addition, the cookies all come out looking very similar with a short chill time—even with an uneven oven! We used these 4-inch cookie molds to make 8 very large cookies. (You can use smaller sized molds if you have them: just shorten the baking time).

Are cookie molds required? No! The recipe below has a variation for baking 12 medium-sized cookies on a regular baking sheet.

Silicone cookie molds.

Ingredients in brown butter chocolate chip cookies

The key to these cookies is a few next-level ingredients that take them over the top. Of course there are the typical baking character, but there are a few key ingredients to use to make them taste irresistible!

  • Butter and oil: Using both brown butter and oil makes these cookies intensely chewy.
  • Sugar and brown sugar: Brown sugar adds intense flavor and also lends to making the cookie soft.er
  • Flour, baking soda, salt, and vanilla: These traditional baking ingredients make the base of the cookie.
  • Egg plus 1 egg yolk: The additional egg yolk adds richness in flavor and
  • Cinnamon: This spice adds a hint of intrigue to the flavor.
  • Dark chocolate: Use top quality dark chocolate. Topping with caramel-filled dark chocolate makes a huge flavor impact!
  • Nutella: Nutella is optional, but its adds an irresistibly nutty flavor that we think is crucial to the success of this cookie!
  • Flaky sea salt: Topping a cookie with flaky sea salt seals the deal.

For best results

For the best results, use the Nutella and top with extra chopped dark chocolate with caramel inside (in addition to the dark chocolate in the cookies). When we did this and took these cookies to a family party, everyone couldn’t stop talking about them!

Brown Butter Chocolate Chips Cookies Ingredients.

Since these cookies are very large and taste best the day of making, the recipe makes 8 large cookies in molds. If you don’t use molds, it makes 12 medium cookies on baking sheets.

A fun way to serve them for a crowd is slicing each of the cookies into 4 large wedges. It makes for a big platter and everyone seems to like them even better that way!

Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies on rack.

In the photo above, the bottom cookies were baked in molds and the cookies on the rack were baked on a cookie sheet, showing the differences in texture and shape. Both taste great, but the cookies in molds were the clear winner in our taste testing!

Tips for brown butter

One important note for this recipe is to take care when browning the butter! You’ll want it to become very brown and remove it from the heat right before it burns. Very brown is best, but it can burn in seconds so use your best judgement! Here are the steps for browning butter:

Step 1: Heat until the butter starts to foam.

Step 1: Place the butter in a large skillet, cut into pieces. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally. First the butter melts, then it starts to foam (around 1 ½ minutes if browning 1 stick of butter).

Step 2: Continue to stir until it starts to bubble.

Step 2: Continue to stir occasionally until the foaming stops and the butter starts to bubble, typically around 4 to 5 minutes.

Step 3: Cook until the butter turns brown.

Step 3: Continue to stir occasionally until the butter becomes brown in color and starts to smell nutty, around 5 to 7 minutes. Immediately remove the butter from the heat and pour it into a bowl to cool.

Storing leftovers

Storage is important for keeping these brown butter chocolate chip cookies chewy. Place the cookies in a plastic bag with parchment in between layers (if there is extra air, suck out as much air as possible with a straw). Store at room temperature for up to 2 days.

You can also individually wrap the large cookies in plastic wrap if desired to keep them very moist.

Brown butter chocolate chip cookies.

Dietary notes

These brown butter chocolate chip cookies are vegetarian. For vegan, go to Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies (the dough is a larger quantity, so with molds should make 10 to 11 cookies).

Frequently asked questions

Why use brown butter in chocolate chip cookies?

Brown butter adds a rich, nutty flavor and complexity that elevates the classic chocolate chip cookie.

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

Yes, then reduce the amount of salt in the recipe by ¼ teaspoon.

Do I need to chill the dough?

Chilling the dough is recommended as it helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much and intensifies the flavors. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step if you’re using the cookie molds. The chill time is required if you are baking on cookie sheets.

How do I know when the cookies are done?

The edges should be golden brown and set. The center can look slightly soft; the cookies will continue to firm up as they cool.

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Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies

Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

5 from 3 reviews

  • Author: Sonja Overhiser
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Chill Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Yield: 8 large or 12 medium
Save Recipe

Description

These brown butter chocolate chip cookies are over the top: big and chewy, with nutty brown butter, chocolate chunks, topped with flaky sea salt (Nutella swirl optional). Our friends and family agree, this is one outrageously delicious cookie!


Ingredients

  • 1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 2/3 cup packed dark brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons neutral oil or olive oil
  • 1 ¼ cups (175g) all-purpose flour (unsifted)
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ⅛ teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 egg, plus 1 egg yolk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 4 oz best quality dark chocolate (60%), chopped (plus additional dark chocolate with caramel for topping, recommended — see Notes)
  • 3 tablespoons Nutella, optional but recommended
  • Flaky sea salt (Maldon), for finishing
  • Special equipment (optional): 4-inch cookie molds

Instructions

  1. Brown the butter: Place the butter (sliced into pieces) in a skillet over medium heat. Heat for a few minutes until it melts, turns foamy, and then starts to become golden brown and then brown in color and smells nutty. For the best flavor, you’ll want the butter to be very brown: but not burnt! Be careful because it can burn very quickly.
  2. Immediately remove from the heat and transfer to a medium mixing bowl. Stir in the sugars and oil into the butter. Allow to cool until it is room temperature, for about 10 minutes (we like to place the bowl in the refrigerator for this part).
  3. Meanwhile, in a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and kosher salt. Set aside.
  4. After the sugar mixture is room temperature, use a spatula to stir in the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla until smooth. Then stir in the flour mixture until smooth. Stir in the chopped chocolate, saving out about ⅙ of the chunks for the topping (or you can add it all and use additional for topping).
  5. For molded cookies: Divide the dough evenly into 8 silicone molds (scoop out approximately ½ cup scoops or 80 g each). Lightly roll it into a ball then press it down to make a disc. If using Nutella (recommended), add a ½ tablespoon dollop into the dough, then fold over the dough and press it into a disc again. Place the molds on two cookie sheets, then refrigerate the sheets for 30 minutes. 
  6. For free-form cookies: Scoop out ⅓ cup scoops into 12 medium (50 g) sized cookies. Place them across two baking sheets. If using Nutella, pull each ball in half, add a 1 teaspoon dollop of Nutella, then top with the other half of the dough and re-roll into a ball. Refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes. (It is very important to form the dough into cookies before refrigerating, and to refrigerate at least 30 minutes (or up to 1 hour), otherwise the cookies will spread in the oven. You want the dough as cold as possible. 
  7. Preheat the oven to 350°F.  
  8. Bake the cookies until golden brown and set at the edges, 19 to 22 minutes for the cookies in molds, switching the trays halfway. (Without molds, bake 12 to 14 minutes for the 12 medium cookies on sheets). Keep in mind, the bake time depends on your specific oven, so adjust as necessary. You’ll want them just golden and baked through, but still slightly underbaked so they stay chewy. 
  9. Remove from the oven. Important: Press in chopped chocolate into the tops of the cookies (we like using chocolate with caramel inside for the topping), then sprinkle with a small pinch of flaky sea salt. 
  10. Place the molds onto cooling racks, then allow to cool for about 1 hour until the cookies are able to pop out of the molds. (Allow cookies without molds to stand on sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to baking racks to cool.) If serving for a crowd, a fun way to serve the molded cookies is to slice them into 4 wedges, making for more cookies!
  11. Storage: Storage is important for keeping the cookies chewy. Place the cookies in a plastic bag with parchment in between layers (if there is extra air, suck out as much air as possible with a straw). Store at room temperature for up to 2 days. (You can also individually wrap the large cookies in plastic wrap if desired to keep them very moist.) 

Notes

For the best results, use the Nutella and top with extra chopped dark chocolate with caramel inside (in addition to the dark chocolate in the cookies). The caramel dark chocolate adds a nice flavor nuance. If desired, you can also use it inside the cookies as well. 

Another method for incorporating the Nutella is stirring it into the dough after the chocolate chips with a spatula but only a few times, so it incorporates in streaks.

  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian
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25 Favorite Zucchini Recipes https://www.acouplecooks.com/zucchini-recipes/ https://www.acouplecooks.com/zucchini-recipes/#respond Sun, 21 Jul 2024 20:56:00 +0000 https://www.acouplecooks.com/?p=70576 Here are all our favorite zucchini recipes for the season! These are all the best ways to use this seasonal ingredient: make it into dinner, sauté it as a side dish, or mix up delicious baked goods like breads, muffins and cakes.

Easy sauteed zucchini

Got zucchini? As two cookbook authors and recipe experts, we absolutely love it when zucchini season rolls around! There are so many tasty ways to enjoy this mighty green veggie. Here we’ve put together a list of all our favorite zucchini recipes, both sweet and savory! Of course, these work in any season, whether you’ve got a boatload of this summer veggie or found some at the store.

There’s a little something for everyone here: start with hearty stuffed zucchini for dinner, try a batch of lemon zucchini bread or muffins, and don’t forget zucchini brownies! This veggie makes an unforgettably moist baked goods everyone will rave over.

And now…the best zucchini recipes to try!

More summer vegetables

Zucchini is a quintessential summer vegetable that’s everything summer! Here are a few more tasty recipes that are perfect for highlighting summer veggies:

Frequently asked questions

What’s the best way to store zucchini?

Store zucchini in the refrigerator crisper drawer, unwashed, in a plastic bag with a few holes for air circulation. They should stay fresh for about a week.

How do I know when zucchini is ripe?

Look for zucchini that are firm, have shiny skin, and are about 6-8 inches long. Avoid zucchini that are overly large or have soft spots.

Can I freeze zucchini?

Yes! Go to How to Freeze Zucchini.

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Zucchini Boats

25 Favorite Zucchini Recipes


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Sonja Overhiser
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4
Save Recipe

Description

This stuffed zucchini boats recipe has a hearty filling topped with gooey cheese. It’s a tasty dinner idea that pleases everyone!


Ingredients

  • 4 medium zucchini
  • Olive oil, for rubbing
  • ¾ teaspoon kosher salt, divided
  • Fresh ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano, divided
  • 14 to 16 ounces plant based sausage, crumbles, or standard Italian sausage (or substitute 2 cups Vegan Taco Meat)
  • 2 garlic cloves
  • 15-ounces fire roasted crushed tomatoes**
  • ¼ teaspoon fennel seeds
  • 6 tablespoons grated or shredded Parmesan cheese, divided
  • ½ cup whole milk mozzarella cheese
  • 2 tablespoons Italian seasoned panko (or plain panko; omit or use gluten-free breadcrumbs for gluten-free)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh basil or parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F.
  2. Cut off the stem ends of the zucchini. Cut them each in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides with a spoon: you’ll want a thin edge around the outside of the boat. (Discard the pulp, or use it in smoothies or for another purpose.) Place the boats on a baking sheet and rub each with a bit of olive oil. Then sprinkle all 8 boats with a heaping ¼ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon oregano and fresh ground black pepper, divided between the boats. 
  3. Place the sausage in a medium skillet and cook according to the package instructions, 2 to 3 minutes for plant-based and 6 to 7 for regular sausage (for regular sausage, drain any excess fat after cooking). Add the garlic to the pan with the sausage and cook 30 seconds, then add the tomatoes, fennel seed, ½ teaspoon dried oregano, ½ teaspoon kosher salt, and ¼ cup Parmesan cheese. Heat for 1 minute until warmed through. 
  4. Scoop the filling into the zucchini boats. Top with the mozzarella cheese and the remaining 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese. Then sprinkle with the panko. 
  5. Bake for 20 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden brown. Let stand for 2 minutes before serving. Leftovers store up to 3 days refrigerated. 

Notes

*For plant-based crumbles or sausage, we like Impossible or Beyond (we used Impossible sausage here). For a homemade version, try Vegan Taco Meat: omit the cumin and use ½ tablespoon dried oregano.

**Fire roasted tomatoes add the best flavor here: they taste sweet and smoky right out of the can. If you can’t find them, substitute best quality tomatoes with 1 teaspoon sugar and ½ teaspoon smoked paprika. Or, use 1 ½ cups best quality marinara sauce.

  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

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Lavender Ice Cream https://www.acouplecooks.com/lavender-ice-cream/ https://www.acouplecooks.com/lavender-ice-cream/#comments Tue, 16 Jul 2024 13:00:00 +0000 https://www.acouplecooks.com/?p=162556 This lavender ice cream recipe is a summer favorite, soft and creamy with a natural bright color! Blueberries make the lovely color and add a tangy flavor that accents the floral notes of the lavender. We love serving this purple ice cream to guests: everyone goes crazy for it!

Lavender ice cream in tub with fresh lavender.

Why we love this recipe

We’re big lavender fans: we love sipping on a lavender latte and watching the stalks of the purple flowers in our garden sway in the wind. So, of course we had to try our hand at a lavender ice cream recipe. (Or we like to call it lavender haze ice cream, for Taylor Swift fans.)

If you love lavender too, this recipe is a must-make! This lavender ice cream is so creamy and irresistible, with a bright purple color from a natural ingredient—fresh blueberries! They add a tangy flavor to accent the floral lavender, and the eye-popping color is so fun to surprise people with. Our family and friends always go crazy for it!

“This lavender ice cream is super tasty!! The flavor is just strong enough for me (I love a Starbucks lavender latte). My husband just took a bite and said “Mmmmm, I like this!'” -Mary

Lavender Ice Cream in ice cream cone

Ingredients in lavender ice cream

Lavender ice cream requires just a handful of ingredients for its delicious flavor and beautiful color.

  • Fresh blueberries make the beautiful color. We prefer fresh for the best flavor, but you can also use frozen: no need to thaw before making the ice cream.
  • Granulated sugar is the sweetener of choice.
  • Dried culinary lavender is what brings in the floral flavor. You can find it jarred in the spices aisle of your local grocery. If you have fresh lavender on hand, you can use it as a 1:1 substitute.
  • Cornstarch gives body to the ice cream and helps it to stay scoopable after freezing.
  • Whole milk and heavy cream form the base of the custard. For a vegan version, go to Vegan Ice Cream, remove ½ cup of the oat milk and substitute the lavender blueberry syrup in this recipe.
  • Salt and vanilla offer the final flavoring.

Tips for lavender ice cream

Here are a few tips about the lavender flavor in this ice cream:

  • This recipe is designed for dried culinary lavender. The level of 3 tablespoons gives a medium strong lavender flavor; if you are worried about it being too strong, you can try 2 1/2. The flavor varies based on every jar of lavender!
  • If you can, make the custard in advance. The custard takes about 1 hour to chill if you set it in a bowl of ice, or 3 hours if you refrigerate it.
  • The ice cream is soft serve texture right away, and you can serve immediately. Or, freeze at least 2 hours for a hard ice cream texture.
Lavender Ice Cream in cone in bowl.

Variations and mix-ins

This lavender ice cream recipe would taste great with the following:

  • Orange zest: Add ½ teaspoon to add a stronger citrus flair.
  • Chocolate: Add chocolate, using the method in mint chocolate chip ice cream.
  • Pistachios or pecans: Add ½ cup pistachios or chopped pecans to the mix for a nutty flavor.

Ice cream makers

This lavender ice cream recipe does require an ice cream maker to churn it into a soft, smooth texture. There are two options when it comes to ice cream makers:

  • Freezer bowl ice cream maker: This type of maker is the most inexpensive and requires freezing overnight before making the recipe (store the bowl in the freezer). We use this 2 quart freezer bowl ice cream maker; it’s very durable and has held up well over the years.
  • Automatic ice cream maker: This automatic ice cream maker is larger and more expensive, but great if you make ice cream often. It requires no pre-freezing, so you can make ice cream any time you please!

Storing leftovers

This lavender ice cream lasts in the freezer for up to 2 weeks: it stays creamy and scoopable for the entire storage time! Many of our homemade ice cream recipes become slightly hard and need to be set out at room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes before serving. However, this lavender ice cream doesn’t require it! It’s very soft because of the fruit syrup addition, and you can scoop it out right from the freezer.

Dietary notes

This lavender ice cream recipe is vegetarian and gluten-free. For a dairy-free and vegan version, go to Vegan Ice Cream, remove ½ cup of the oat milk and substitute the lavender blueberry syrup in this recipe.

Frequently asked questions

What does lavender ice cream taste like?

Lavender ice cream has a delicate floral flavor that is surprisingly refreshing and not overly sweet. The taste is often described as slightly sweet with hints of mint and rosemary. It’s a unique and sophisticated flavor that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with other desserts.

What kind of lavender should I use for lavender ice cream?

It’s crucial to use culinary lavender, not the lavender found in essential oils or used for aromatherapy. Culinary lavender is specifically grown for consumption and has a milder flavor than other varieties. You can find it in specialty food stores or online.

What are some pairing suggestions for lavender ice cream?

Lavender ice cream pairs well with various flavors, both sweet and savory. Some popular options include:

Fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries

Honey or honeycomb

Lemon or lime zest

Shortbread cookies or pound cake

Toasted almonds or pistachios

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Lavender ice cream

Lavender Ice Cream


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  • Author: Sonja Overhiser
  • Prep Time: 2 hours
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes
  • Yield: 1 quart
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Description

This lavender ice cream recipe is a summer favorite, soft and creamy with a natural bright color! Blueberries make the lovely shade of purple and add a tangy flavor to the floral notes of the lavender. We love serving this brilliant purple ice cream to guests: everyone goes crazy for it!


Ingredients

  • 2 cups fresh blueberries (or frozen) 
  • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar, divided
  • 3 tablespoons dried culinary lavender (purchased or home-dried; see notes)
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • ⅛ teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. In a large saucepan, add the blueberries, ½ cup of the sugar, the lavender, and 2 tablespoons water and bring to a boil. Simmer for 7 to 8 minutes on medium heat, bubbling rapidly, until the berries are broken down into a thick sauce, mashing. Strain through a fine mesh strainer into a bowl. Stir in lemon juice and reserve.
  2. Wash and dry the pan. Slowly whisk the cornstarch into the whole milk, then whisk in the remaining 1 cup sugar. Heat over medium heat for 4 to 6 minutes, whisking frequently, until it’s almost simmering and the mixture thickens. Remove from the heat.
  3. Stir in the heavy cream, salt, and vanilla extract. Transfer the mixture to a large metal or glass bowl. Add the blueberry puree and stir until combined. 
  4. Place the bowl in a smaller bowl of ice water for 1 hour, making sure not to splash any water into the custard. Alternatively, simply place the bowl in the refrigerator and wait for 3 hours or until the temperature drops to 40°F.
  5. Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the ice cream maker instructions, about 25 minutes for soft serve consistency. For a hard ice cream texture, transfer to a loaf pan or sealed container and freeze in the freezer for at least 2 hours (or up to 4 hours). Store in a loaf pan with a parchment sheet over the top or a sealed container for up to 2 weeks. The ice cream stays scoopable and creamy (no need to let it sit at room temperature before serving).

Notes

*This recipe is designed for dried culinary lavender. The level of 3 tablespoons gives a medium strong lavender flavor; if you are worried about it being too strong, you can try 2 1/2. The flavor varies based on every jar of lavender! If you have fresh lavender on hand, you can use it as a 1:1 substitute.

  • Category: Ice Cream
  • Method: Frozen
  • Cuisine: Ice Cream
  • Diet: Vegetarian
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Fajita Salad https://www.acouplecooks.com/fajita-salad/ https://www.acouplecooks.com/fajita-salad/#respond Mon, 15 Jul 2024 13:30:00 +0000 https://www.acouplecooks.com/?p=162374 This fajita salad recipe is one of our our go-to dinner ideas, bursting with charred vegetables and covered in a creamy salsa ranch dressing! We eat it often and it works for almost any diet: it’s easily gluten-free, vegetarian, or vegan—plus it’s ideal for serving a crowd!

Fajita Salad recipe

Why we love this recipe

Hello and welcome to one of our favorite ever easy dinner ideas that works for any diet: fajita salad! Fajita salad is simply fajita fixings on top of a salad, turning the Tex Mex favorite into a bowl meal. And if you know us: there’s nothing we love more than a good bowl meal!

Alex and I eat a spin on this almost every week. It’s full of charred vegetables, and crunchy greens, with this creamy salsa ranch dressing that you’re going to want to put on everything! You can make it with either grilled chicken or pinto beans, so it works for gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan diets. it’s such a fun recipe for parties and serving a crowd! (Serve with this margarita recipe, just because.)

Components in a fajita salad

This fajita salad is so customizable: it works as an easy weeknight meal, or a summer grilled meal on the patio! The grill method takes about 1 hour to complete, so it’s great for weekends or when you have time to fire it up. Here are the basic components in a good fajita salad recipe:

  • Fajita veggies: We like a mix of multi-colored bell peppers, onions, and garlic. Then you’ll need a few spices: cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder. We prefer using our own mixture to a pre-made fajita mix.
  • Chicken or pinto beans: It’s absolutely delicious with grilled chicken, but for vegetarian or vegan diets, pinto beans are just as satisfying.
  • Fresh veggies: You’ll use a base of romaine lettuce, plus fresh cherry tomatoes. We like grilling avocado slices along with the fajita veggies (optional).
  • Salsa ranch dressing: A few ingredients like sour cream, mayo, and salsa combine into an absolutely delicious creamy drizzle! If you prefer, you can simply use sour cream mixed with salsa, or this easier salsa dressing.
Salsa Ranch Dressing

Methods: grilling, skillet, and sheet pan

There are a few different methods for making fajitas. The main method is the grill, but we’ve got a few alternatives for you:

  • Grilled: In the recipe below for fajita salad, we grill the fajita veggies and the chicken or beans (the beans go in packets). This is our preferred method because it infuses a delicious charred flavor.
  • Skillet: If you prefer, you can simply whip up these skillet fajita veggies to use in your fajita salad. For the chicken, make pan seared chicken breast with the seasonings in this recipe. For the beans, simply warm them on the stove.
  • Oven: You can also make sheet pan fajitas using this vegan fajitas recipe!

Sauce variations

This salsa ranch dressing is one if our favorite parts of this recipe! (Well, every part of this recipe is our favorite…but I digress.) It’s so intensely creamy and savory. But you can use a few other options:

Storing leftovers

This fajita salad recipe is a great gluten-free dinner, vegetarian dinner, and vegan dinner. You can store leftover vegetables and chicken for up to 3 days refrigerated; gently reheat in a skillet before serving.

Fajita Salad

Dietary notes

This fajita salad recipe is gluten-free. With the pinto beans it is vegetarian. For dairy-free and vegan, use cilantro sauce, chipotle sauce or cashew cream as the sauce.

More fajita recipes

Frequently asked questions

What is fajita salad?

Fajita salad is a fun way to enjoy all the classic fajita ingredients (grilled meat or veggies, peppers, onions, etc) in a lighter salad format. It’s all your favorite fajita fillings, minus the tortillas, piled onto a bed of crisp greens and drizzled with a zesty dressing.

What kind of dressing should I use for fajita salad?

A simple lime vinaigrette or a creamy cilantro lime dressing are popular choices. You can also spice things up with a chipotle ranch or go for a tangy avocado dressing. Feel free to experiment and find your favorite!

Can I make fajita salad ahead of time?

It’s best to assemble the salad just before serving to keep the greens crisp, but you can prep all the ingredients ahead of time. Grill your meats and veggies, whip up your dressing, and chop your toppings. When you’re ready to eat, simply toss everything together.

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Fajita Salad recipe

Fajita Salad


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  • Author: Sonja Overhiser
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 4
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Description

This fajita salad recipe is one of our our go-to dinner ideas, bursting with charred vegetables and covered in a creamy salsa ranch dressing! It’s delicious with either chicken or beans as the protein. We eat it often and it’s easily gluten-free, vegetarian, or vegan—plus it works great for serving a crowd!


Ingredients

For the veggies

  • 3 bell peppers (red, yellow, and green)
  • 1 medium red onion
  • 1 medium white onion
  • 3 garlic cloves
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons cumin
  • 1 teaspoon each chili powder, garlic powder, and smoked paprika
  • 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt

For the chicken (or substitute 15-once can pinto beans)

  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts or 4 cutlets (1 to 1 ½ pounds, organic if possible)
  • ½ tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon each garlic powder, onion powder, oregano
  • ¼ teaspoon each cumin and chili powder
  • 1 to 1 1/4 teaspoons kosher salt (see instructions)

For the fajita salad

  • 1 avocado, pit removed
  • 1 handful tomatoes
  • 2 romaine hearts (6 cups chopped, or a mix of romaine and iceberg lettuce)
  • ½ cup jarred sliced pickled jalapenos
  • Cilantro

Salsa Ranch Dressing (vegan options in Notes)

  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • ¼ cup sour cream
  • ¼ cup red salsa
  • 1 tablespoon fresh chives
  • 1 teaspoon each garlic powder, onion powder, and dried dill
  • ¼ teaspoon each kosher salt and black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat a grill to high heat (450 to 550°F). (If you don’t have a grill, you can make Fajita Veggies or Shrimp Fajitas in a skillet, or Sheet Pan Fajitas in the oven.)
  2. Prep the chicken (or skip to Step 3 for plant-based): Pat the chicken dry with a paper towel. If not already in cutlets, slice the chicken in half horizontally (see these steps for how to butterfly chicken). Add the chicken to a container and add the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, cumin, chili powder, kosher salt, and a few grinds of black pepper. Mix with your hands until evenly coated. Cover and marinate until ready to grill.
  3. Or, prep the beans: Drain and rinse the beans, and place them on a square of aluminum foil. Mix the beans with 1 tablespoon olive oil, the same spices as the chicken, and ½ teaspoon kosher salt. Fold up the sides of the foil to form a square packet.
  4. Prep the fajita veggies: Thinly slice the bell peppers and onions. Smash the garlic cloves. Place them in a bowl and toss with 2 tablespoons of the olive oil, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, kosher salt and fresh ground pepper. Spread on a large piece of foil and seal the foil tight. 
  5. Grill the veggies: Place the foil pack with the vegetables on the grill and cook for 15 minutes, then carefully use tongs to open the pack. Continue to grill until veggies are tender and lightly charred, about 10 to 15 minutes.
  6. Make the dressing & prep salad ingredients: Meanwhile, make the salsa ranch dressing by mixing all ingredients together in a medium bowl (make ahead if desired; stores up to 1 week refrigerated). Prepare the lettuce and tomatoes. Rub avocado halves with olive oil and add a pinch of salt.
  7. When the vegetables are almost finished grilling, grill the chicken or beans: Grill the chicken breasts until grill marks appear and it releases from the grates, 2 to 4 minutes. Flip and cook until no longer pink in the center and the internal temperature is 165°F, 2 to 4 minutes. Remove to a platter and cover with foil. Allow to rest for 5 minutes before slicing for maximum juiciness. Alternatively, place the bean packet on the grill and grill for 5 minutes.
  8. Grill the avocados (optional): Grill the avocados cut side down for 4 minutes, until grill lines appear and they are bright green.
  9. Serve: Place the greens on a plate, then top with the vegetables, grilled chicken or beans, tomatoes, jalapenos, and cilantro. Drizzle with the desired amount of dressing and serve. If making in advance, refrigerate the components separately; bring the dressing to room temperature before serving. Leftover chicken, veggies, and beans store up to 3 days, refrigerated.

Notes

This fajita salad concept works well with other methods for cooking the vegetables and protein! Try our Fajita Veggies (in a skillet) plus Pan Seared Chicken Breast, Vegetarian Fajitas, Shrimp Fajitas, or Sheet Pan Fajitas.

For vegan, substitute Cilantro Sauce, Chipotle Sauce, or Cashew Cream.

  • Category: Main dish
  • Method: Grilled
  • Cuisine: Grilled
  • Diet: Gluten Free
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20 Easy Chicken Dinner Ideas https://www.acouplecooks.com/chicken-dinner-ideas/ https://www.acouplecooks.com/chicken-dinner-ideas/#respond Sat, 13 Jul 2024 13:00:13 +0000 https://www.acouplecooks.com/?p=162461 These chicken dinner ideas answer that age old question, what’s for dinner? Try all our best chicken recipes: pan dinners, soups, salads, enchiladas, and more—including delicious ideas for both chicken breast and thighs! There’s something for everyone in this list.

Chicken dinner ideas

What’s for dinner? Even though we’re two-time cookbook authors and food bloggers, we’re also busy parents who are often stumped by this question. Chicken to the rescue!

There are so many fun, creative chicken dinner ideas that are easy to whip up. As two cookbook authors and recipe developers, we’ve made it our goal to uncover all of them! Here’s a list of our top chicken recipes that our readers and family love, including:

  • Skillet dinners, whipped up a skillet with a creamy sauce like Tuscan chicken, lemon garlic chicken, and more
  • One pot dinners like our easy chicken and rice
  • Grilled chicken like grilled chicken breast or thighs
  • Baked chicken like Greek chicken or baked chicken thighs
  • Salads like grilled chicken salad or chicken pasta salad
  • Enchiladas and tacos
  • Soups and sandwiches

Top chicken dinner ideas (both breast and thighs)

Sides to serve with chicken dinners

How to make your chicken dinner into a meal? We’ve compiled all our ideas into this list of 50 Side Dishes for Chicken. Here are some highlights:

More chicken techniques

Learn more about these essential chicken techniques!

Frequently asked questions

What are some easy chicken dinner ideas for busy weeknights?

For busy weeknights, opt for quick and simple recipes like Lemon Garlic Chicken or Pan Seared Chicken, stir-fries, or pasta dishes with chicken. You can also try using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save even more time in dishes like enchiladas and soups.

What are some healthy chicken dinner ideas?

There are plenty of healthy chicken dinner options! Grilled chicken or Greek chicken with vegetables, chicken salads with light dressings like grilled chicken salad, and chicken soups are all great choices. Focus on lean protein, whole grains, and plenty of vegetable recipes for a balanced meal.

What can I do with leftover cooked chicken?

Leftover cooked chicken is a versatile ingredient that can be used in numerous dishes. Add it to salads, sandwiches, wraps, tacos, pasta dishes, or stir-fries. You can also shred it and use it in casseroles, chicken enchiladas, or quesadillas.

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Chicken and rice recipe

20 Chicken Dinner Ideas


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  • Author: Sonja Overhiser
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4
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Description

This one-pot chicken and rice is the perfect easy dinner idea that’s bursting with flavor! Tender chicken thighs and fluffy rice simmer in a cozy broth, with a burst of freshness from the zesty parsley and lemon gremolata topping.


Ingredients

For the chicken

  • 8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 2 pounds)
  • 1 ¼ teaspoons kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the rice

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small white or yellow onion, minced
  • 1 ½ cups white rice
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon dried dill

For the gremolata

  • ⅓ cup finely chopped Italian parsley, (about 1/2 bunch)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest (1 large lemon)
  • 1/2 small garlic clove, minced
  • 1 pinch kosher salt
  • 1 grind black pepper

Instructions

  1. Dry the chicken thighs and season with the kosher salt, garlic powder, onion powder and lots of fresh ground pepper. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium high heat. Add the chicken and cook 3 to 4 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove the chicken to a plate, leaving the juices in the pan.
  2. Reduce the heat to medium low and add the garlic and onion. Cook for 5 minutes, until the onions are very tender, stirring occasionally. Stir in the broth, rice, dill and kosher salt, scraping the bottom of the pan to pick up all of the seasoning from the chicken. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and top with the browned chicken thighs. Cover with a lid and cook at a low simmer for 15 to 18 minutes until rice is tender and all of the liquid is absorbed.
  3. Meanwhile, in a medium bowl mix together the ingredients for the gremolata.
  4. Remove the heat and let stand covered for 5 minutes. Uncover and fluff the rice with a fork, then top with the gremolata and serve warm.
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Chicken
  • Cuisine: Chicken Dinner
  • Diet: Gluten Free
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Salsa Ranch Dressing https://www.acouplecooks.com/salsa-ranch-dressing/ https://www.acouplecooks.com/salsa-ranch-dressing/#comments Fri, 12 Jul 2024 17:30:00 +0000 https://www.acouplecooks.com/?p=162551 This salsa ranch dressing is so creamy and fresh, with big bold flavor and it comes together in minutes! This is our favorite way to make a quick dressing for burrito bowls, taco salad, fajita salad, and more.

Salsa Ranch Dressing in bowl.

So you’ve got salsa and ranch dressing: why not combine the two to make salsa ranch dressing? This creamy, tangy salad dressing takes just minutes to whip up, and if you love them both—the flavor is even better in combination!

Why we love this recipe: This is our favorite way to make a quick salad dressing with only a few ingredients. It’s perfect for drizzling over a burrito bowl or taco salad. We love it most with this fajita salad! It also works as a taco sauce or to spoon over stuffed sweet potatoes. We hope you love this trick as much as we do!

Tips for salsa ranch dressing

There’s not much to this salsa ranch dressing: it’s a matter of mixing together a few ingredients! Here are a few tips and tricks:

  • Mayonnaise and sour cream make a creamy sauce. For dairy-free and vegan, use vegan mayonnaise and substitute cashew cream for the sour cream.
  • Use your favorite red salsa. Using a quality brand is key!
  • Fresh chives add great flavor, but they’re optional. We usually have chives on hand in our herb garden, and they add that classic ranch dressing flavor. They can be expensive to buy, so you can omit them if desired.
  • The custom spice blend makes the flavor. Just add garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, and salt and pepper. No substitutions on the dried dill: that’s what makes the classic ranch vibe.

Storing leftovers

This salsa ranch dressing stores refrigerated for up to 1 week. It’s possible it can last longer: check the dates on your mayo, sour cream and salsa.

Ways to use salsa ranch dressing

Let us count the ways! We originally made this salsa ranch dressing for this delicious grilled fajita salad. But there are many other ways to use it:

How do you plan to use your salsa ranch dressing? Let us know in the comments below, and let us know if you tried it!

Fajita Salad in bowl drizzled with salsa ranch dressing.

More ranch dressing recipes

Here are a few more ranch-inspired dressing recipes you might enjoy:

Dietary notes

This salsa ranch dressing is vegetarian and gluten-free. For dairy-free and vegan, substitute vegan mayonnaise and cashew cream.

Frequently asked questions

What is salsa ranch dressing?

Salsa ranch dressing is a flavorful blend of classic ranch dressing and your favorite salsa. It’s a creamy, zesty dressing with a hint of spice, perfect for salads, tacos, burritos, or even as a dipping sauce for chips and veggies.

Can I use store-bought ranch dressing and salsa for this recipe?

Absolutely! While making your own ranch dressing from scratch can be rewarding, using store-bought versions is a convenient shortcut. Choose your favorite brands and flavors of ranch and salsa to customize the taste.

How spicy is salsa ranch dressing?

The spice level of your salsa ranch dressing will depend on the type of salsa you use. If you prefer a milder dressing, opt for a mild or medium salsa. If you like it hot, go for a hot salsa or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

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Salsa Ranch Dressing

Salsa Ranch Dressing


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No reviews

  • Author: Sonja Overhiser
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 5 minutes
  • Yield: About 1 cup
Save Recipe

Description

This salsa ranch dressing is so creamy and fresh, with big bold flavor and it comes together in minutes! This is our favorite way to make a quick dressing for burrito bowls, taco salad, fajita salad, and more.


Ingredients

  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • ¼ cup sour cream
  • ¼ cup mild red salsa
  • 1 tablespoon fresh chives
  • 1 teaspoon each garlic powder, onion powder, and dried dill
  • ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¼ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together all ingredients. If desired, thin to the desired consistency with additional salsa. Store up to 1 week refrigerated.

Notes

For a spicy spin, use medium or hot salsa, or add hot sauce to taste. 

  • Category: Sauce
  • Method: No Cook
  • Cuisine: Salad Dressing
  • Diet: Vegetarian
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What to Serve With Pasta Salad https://www.acouplecooks.com/what-to-serve-with-pasta-salad/ https://www.acouplecooks.com/what-to-serve-with-pasta-salad/#respond Thu, 11 Jul 2024 14:12:02 +0000 https://www.acouplecooks.com/?p=162569 What goes with pasta salad? Serve this versatile dish as a main or a side! You can try it as a side dish for burgers, sandwiches, chicken or fish, or as a main dish for lunch or dinner with other salads, slaws, and more.

Sides to Go With Pasta Salad

Pasta salad is one of our summer staples: it’s so hearty and versatile and can be served in so many ways. But what goes with pasta salad? What pairs perfectly with this crowd-pleasing side dish?

The fun part is this: pasta salad works as either a main dish or a side! Here are a few of the main ideas for what to serve pasta salad:

  • Serve it for lunch with veggies and dip, crackers or bread, or fresh fruit
  • Serve it as a dinner with other summer salads like bean salad, cucumber salad, or watermelon salad
  • Serve it as a side for burgers, sandwiches, chicken, or fish.

As two cookbook authors and recipe experts, Alex and I have made lots of cold pasta salad recipes. Keep reading for all the dishes we like to serve alongside!

What to serve with pasta salad

Top pasta salad recipes

Alex and I love pasta salad, and we make it often in the summer or for lunches. Here are a few different types of cold pasta salad recipes:

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Mediterranean Pasta Salad

What Goes With Pasta Salad


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  • Author: Sonja Overhiser
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 5 to 6
Save Recipe

Description

What goes with pasta salad? This versatile dish can be a main or a side! Serve it as a side dish for burgers, sandwiches, chicken or fish, or as a main dish with salads, slaws, and more. There are so many ways to eat this tasty recipe! This Mediterranean pasta salad recipe is bursting with fresh flavor! Mix up a batch as an easy side dish or quick lunch.


Ingredients

  • 8 ounces fusilli pasta
  • 1/2 English cucumber, thinly sliced into half moons (2 cups)
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes, sliced in half
  • ¼ cup sun dried tomatoes, chopped
  • 1/2 can artichoke hearts, roughly chopped
  • 1 handful thinly sliced red onion
  • 2 cups baby arugula (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice, plus zest of 1 lemon
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • 1 garlic clove, grated (or ½ teaspoon garlic powder)
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Fresh ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup feta cheese crumbles (omit for vegan and add more salt)

Instructions

  1. Start a large pot of well-salted water to boil. Boil the pasta until al dente according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta and run cool water over it until it’s room temperature.
  2. Meanwhile, slice the cucumber and tomatoes, chop the sundried tomatoes and artichoke hearts, and slice the onion.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together the lemon zest, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, garlic, Italian seasoning, and kosher salt. Then whisk in the olive oil.
  4. Once the pasta is done, add it to the large bowl of dressing and toss with the chopped vegetables. Add the feta cheese and fresh ground black pepper and stir to combine. 
  5. Taste and add more salt to taste if necessary. Serve immediately. Stores up to 5 days refrigerated (leftovers taste great; allow to come to room temperature and add a swirl more olive oil or a bit more salt as necessary).
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian
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Lentil Sloppy Joes https://www.acouplecooks.com/lentil-sloppy-joes/ https://www.acouplecooks.com/lentil-sloppy-joes/#comments Tue, 09 Jul 2024 17:00:00 +0000 https://www.acouplecooks.com/?p=162352 These vegan lentil sloppy joes are deliciously filling plant-based dinner made with lentils, tomatoes, and seasonings! The tangy flavor makes them a crowd-pleaser, and they’re a huge hit at our house. Serve on a bun with pickles for the true sloppy joe experience.

Lentil Sloppy Joes on platter.

Why we love this recipe

If you grew up on sloppy joes like we did (or even if you didn’t), you’re going to love this spin on the classic! Our lentil sloppy joes recipe has all the hearty, tangy flavor of the classic, but it’s an easy vegan recipe that’s 100% plant-based.

The best part is you can make it in 30 minutes! It makes a large batch of 8 servings (true to form, since sloppy joes are intended to feed a crowd). Ketchup, tomato paste, and a few seasonings make a savory flavor that’s irresistible. The first time we made them, we loved watching our toddler shovel in bite after bite! It’s a kid favorite that adults love, too.

“These were so quick, so hearty, and so delicious! This recipe will be on repeat at our house for those busy summer days. The seasoning is perfection!” -Renata

Ingredients you’ll need

Lentil sloppy joes star one of our very favorite plant-based ingredients: lentils! We love them because they’re delicious, inexpensive, packed with plant-based protein (which makes vegan recipes more filling), and shelf stable for up to 3 years. How’s that for a rockstar ingredient? Here are the main ingredients you’ll need, plus salt and olive oil:

  • Brown or green lentils: These are cheap and easy to find. Avoid substituting other varieties (like red or French) since they cook differently.
  • Green bell pepper and onion: These are standard in the classic version of sloppy joes.
  • Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a savory meaty flavor that’s essential in vegan dinners, we find.
  • Tomato paste, ketchup, Dijon, brown sugar: These ingredients make the base of the tangy sauce.
  • Vegan Worcestershire sauce: If you eat fully vegan or plant-based, use vegan Worcestershire sauce or this Worcestershire sauce substitute.
  • Garlic powder, cumin and smoked paprika: These savory spices form a meaty base.
Measuring cup with lentils

We’re crazy about lentil recipes

Lentil recipes are some of our favorite to create, so we’re excited to have a new one in our arsenal. You may have heard us talking about this 7 Ingredient Lentil Soup that we’re obsessed with. A few more faves? This Lentil Salad and this Coconut Lentil Curry.

Tips for making lentil sloppy joes

This lentil sloppy joes recipe comes together quickly! A few recipe tips before you get right to it:

  • The recipe makes 8 servings, so it’s a big batch. You can make half if desired. But we love having leftovers to eat again or put on a vegan taco salad.
  • Cook the lentils first until tender, about 20 minutes. You’ll leave all the liquid in the pan when mixing it with the sauce, so you’ll want most of it to be evaporated.
  • You can chop the ingredients for the sauce while the lentils cook. Short cut! Chop and sauté while the lentils are cooking. It makes for quick prep time!

Storing leftovers and make ahead info

We like these lentil sloppy joes best the day they are cooked, but they taste great the next day too! You can store leftovers refrigerated for up to 4 days. Reheat in a saucepan, adding an extra squeeze of ketchup if it seems dry.

Another way to make this in advance is to make the lentils and sauce and refrigerate them separately. Then mix together and heat on the stovetop before serving.

Lentil sloppy joes recipe

What to serve with vegan lentil sloppy joes

To us, something about sloppy joes screams potato chips! But if you’re up for serving with more veggies (which we are!), here are a few more ideas on what to serve alongside. If you eat fully vegan, in some recipes you may need to use vegan mayo or feta (or omit the cheese).

Dietary notes

This lentil sloppy joes recipe is vegan (with vegan buns), plant-based, vegetarian, and dairy-free. For gluten-free, use a gluten-free bun.

Frequently asked questions

Are vegan lentil sloppy joes as satisfying as the traditional version?

They can be! Lentils provide a hearty texture and a good amount of protein, while the blend of spices and savory ingredients delivers the classic sloppy joe flavor you crave.

Of course, there’s nothing quite like the taste of ground beef, so if you’re trying to impress a meat lover you may want to try purchased plant-based crumbles.

Can I use other types of lentils besides brown or green lentils?

We don’t suggest substituting lentil varieties here. Red lentils in particular become very mushy.

Are there any gluten-free options for the buns?

Many grocery stores now offer gluten-free hamburger buns. Alternatively, you can use lettuce wraps or even serve the sloppy joe filling over rice or quinoa for a grain bowl-inspired twist.

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Lentil Sloppy Joes

Lentil Sloppy Joes


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5 from 5 reviews

  • Author: Sonja Overhiser
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 8
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Description

These vegan lentil sloppy joes are deliciously filling plant-based dinner! The tangy flavor makes them a crowd-pleaser, and they’re a huge hit at our house. Serve on a bun with pickles for the true sloppy joe experience.


Ingredients

  • 1 pound (2 ¼ cups) brown or green lentils
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt*
  • 1/2 green bell pepper, finely diced (about ¾ cup)
  • 1 medium onion, finely diced (about 1 ½ cups)
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small can tomato paste
  • ¾ cup organic ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • ½ tablespoon brown sugar
  • ½ teaspoon vegan Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon each garlic powder, cumin, and smoked paprika
  • 8 buns (vegan if desired)
  • Bread and butter pickles, to serve

Instructions

  1. In a large saucepan, place the lentils, 6 cups water, and the kosher salt. Bring to a rapid simmer. Reduce the heat and simmer uncovered for about 20 to 25 minutes, until the lentils are tender but still hold their shape and there is only a bit of liquid left in the pan.
  2. Meanwhile, prepare the vegetables as noted in the ingredient list. 
  3. In another large saucepan or skillet, heat the olive oil over medium high heat. Add the bell pepper and onion and cook for 5 minutes until the onions are translucent. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute. Stir in the tomato paste, ketchup, mustard, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, cumin and smoked paprika. (If the lentils are not yet ready at this point, remove the heat and allow the sauce to rest until they are done). Once the lentils are cooked, add them and the pan liquid to the tomato mixture, then simmer for 5 minutes until thickened and warm. Taste and add salt if desired. 
  4. Serve on a bun with pickles. (If desired, toast the buns prior to serving.) Make ahead: Leftovers save for 3 to 4 days. Make in advance, refrigerate and then reheat in a saucepan. Add an extra squeeze of ketchup if it seems dry.
  • Category: Main dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Vegan
  • Diet: Vegan
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Pan Seared Chicken Breast https://www.acouplecooks.com/pan-seared-chicken-breast/ https://www.acouplecooks.com/pan-seared-chicken-breast/#respond Tue, 09 Jul 2024 13:30:00 +0000 https://www.acouplecooks.com/?p=162316 This pan seared chicken breast comes out irresistibly seasoned with a golden brown crust and a juicy, tender interior! Here are all our tips and tricks to this family favorite—serve it with a few sides, or add to salads, tacos rice bowls, and more.

Pan Seared Chicken Breast

Why we love this recipe

What Alex and I turn to most often for dinners, we find, are the most basic go-to methods. Yes, we love a good Tuscan chicken or chicken piccata. But we’ve made this pan seared chicken breast more times than we can count!

It comes out golden seared and juicy on the inside, seasoned with our favorite blend of spices. We use it for everything and our family inhales it! (Really.) We like adding rice or orzo, or slicing it and adding it to Caesar salad, chicken pasta salad, or power bowls! It’s so versatile and you can make it in 15 minutes.

Ingredients for pan seared chicken breast

You’ll need just a handful of ingredients for this recipe, and outside of the chicken, you likely have them on hand in your pantry:

  • Chicken breast: Buy organic chicken if at all possible. Look for boneless skinless chicken breasts, or cutlets if possible. If you can’t find cutlets, you can butterfly them by slicing them in half horizontally.
  • Olive oil: Olive oil is our cooking oil of choice, and it infuses delicious flavor into the seared chicken.
  • Spices: A custom blend of equal parts garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and dried oregano add big savory flavor to the chicken breasts.
Pan seared chicken breast ingredients

Steps for pan seared chicken breast

The basic steps for pan seared chicken breast are simple. Butterflying the chicken breast before you cook it is essential for even cooking and getting a juicy, tender texture (or you can buy it in cutlets). If you’re ready, jump to the recipe below for exact quantities.

Step 1: Butterfly and season the chicken.

Step 1: Butterfly the chicken (if not in cutlets) by slicing in half horizontally, then opening it up and cutting along the fold to separate the two halves. Pat it dry and season with salt. In a small bowl, mix the seasonings and sprinkle on both sides of the chicken.

Step 2: Pan sear the chicken.

Step 2: Add olive oil to a large skillet and heat over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on both sides, 3 to 5 minutes per side. When the internal temperature is 165°F, remove to a plate and rest for 5 minutes.

Step 3: Slice into strips and serve.

Step 3: Slice into strips if desired, then serve.

Tip

This is our favorite chicken recipe because it comes together in just 15 minutes and you don’t need to fire up a grill! Substitute it for grilled chicken in recipes like a Chicken Pesto Sandwich or a Grilled Chicken Salad.

Ways to serve pan seared chicken breast

This seared chicken is so versatile. You can eat it as a main with a few simple side dishes, or in salads, bowl meals, tacos, sandwiches, etc. One of my favorite things to order at a restaurant is a salad and adding chicken to make it a main dish: this is your way to do that at home!

Storing leftovers

Leftover cooked chicken stores for 3 to 4 days refrigerated. It’s best eaten immediately after cooking, but it works made ahead too. Reheat it in a skillet on the stovetop for a minute or two over medium heat before serving.

Pan Seared Chicken Breast on plate.

Dietary notes

This pan seared chicken breast recipe is gluten-free and dairy-free.

Frequently asked questions

What type of pan is best for searing chicken?

A heavy-bottomed skillet, such as cast iron or stainless steel, is ideal for pan-searing chicken. These pans retain heat well, allowing for a consistent sear and preventing the chicken from sticking.

Do I need to use oil when pan-searing chicken?

Yes, using oil is essential for pan-searing chicken. It helps prevent the chicken from sticking to the pan, promotes even browning, and contributes to a crispy, flavorful crust.

Should I cover the chicken while searing it?

Never cover chicken while pan-searing! Covering the pan will trap steam, preventing the chicken from developing a crispy crust.

How do I keep my chicken juicy and prevent it from drying out?

A few things: make sure to butterfly it before cooking or buy cutlets! This ensures even cooking. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches the proper internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), and don’t cook it beyond that. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute.

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Pan Seared Chicken Breast

Pan Seared Chicken Breast


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No reviews

  • Author: Sonja Overhiser
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4
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Ingredients

  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts or 4 cutlets (about 1 pound, organic if possible)
  • 1 to 1 ¼ teaspoons kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon each garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, and smoked paprika
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

  1. If you buy the chicken as breasts that are not already butterflied or in cutlets, butterfly the chicken by placing your hand over the top of each chicken breast and using a sharp knife to carefully slice the breast horizontally, leaving the edge intact so it can open up like a book. Unfold the breast like a book, then cut along the fold to separate the two halves.
  2. Pat the chicken dry with a paper towel and sprinkle on both sides with the kosher salt (use 1 ¼ teaspoons if the chicken is closer to 1 ½ pounds).  In a small bowl, mix the garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, smoked paprika, and a few grinds of black pepper, then sprinkle over the chicken.
  3. Add the olive oil to a large stainless steel or cast iron skillet and heat over medium high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 3 to 5 minutes per side, until browned on both sides. When the internal temperature is 165°F or the center is no longer pink, remove to a plate. Rest 5 minutes before slicing (if desired) and serving. Leftovers last up to 3 days refrigerated.
  • Category: Main dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Chicken
  • Diet: Gluten Free
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Tomato Confit https://www.acouplecooks.com/tomato-confit/ https://www.acouplecooks.com/tomato-confit/#comments Mon, 08 Jul 2024 12:45:00 +0000 https://www.acouplecooks.com/?p=162123 Turn tomatoes into gold with our tomato confit recipe, which tastes like a burst of summer sunshine! Slow roasting cherry tomatoes in olive oil turns them rich and concentrated, with a jammy, melt-in-your-mouth texture and sweet caramelized flavor.

Tomato Confit on plate with fresh herbs

If you’ve got tomatoes, we’ve got two words for you: tomato confit. As cookbook authors, Alex and I are constantly on the lookout for new flavors and this one has us absolutely drooling—we created it inspired by dish we had on our recent trip to France.

Slow roasting cherry tomatoes in olive oil with garlic and fresh herbs concentrates their flavor, making them jammy and sweet. It really does taste like pure sunshine! You can serve tomato confit in so many ways: on crostini, pizza, sandwiches, pasta, or over creamy yogurt tahini sauce as a summer appetizer. So. darn. good. It’s like a love letter to summer (consider it ours).

“This confit and sauce is SO good! I love bursty tomatoes, and paired with the garlic and that tahini yogurt? Heaven.” -Tanvee

Ingredients in confit tomatoes

Tomato confit is a dish where tomatoes are cooked slowly in olive oil at a low temperature. Confit is a French word that comes from the root word “to preserve,” so you can make confit with many ingredients like garlic confit or duck confit (the well-known version). You can add garlic, herbs and other seasonings to the olive oil in tomato confit to add dimension to the flavor. Here are the ingredients you’ll need:

  • Cherry tomatoes: You can use any type of grape or cherry tomatoes: using a multi-colored mix looks especially stunning. Ripe, local in-season tomatoes are best. Cherry tomato confit is the most common, since the small round shape help them hold together.
  • Extra virgin olive oil: Olive oil is ideal for confit.
  • Garlic: Using garlic adds a depth to the flavor here, and it’s absolutely delicious. Feel free to use more garlic if you like!
  • Fresh thyme: Thyme sprigs infuse just the right flavor. You could try other hardy herbs like rosemary or sage. If you like the flavor of tender herbs like basil, use them when serving.

How to make tomato confit (basic steps)

Making a confit is simple: all you need is time. You’ll need about 1 hour and 15 minutes to make tomato confit, but it’s well worth it! Here are the basic steps (or jump to the recipe):

Tomato confit step 1: Mix the tomatoes and garlic with olive oil.

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 300°F. In a small baking dish, add the tomatoes, garlic, salt, thyme, and olive oil. Mix to combine.

Tomato confit step 2: Roast for 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Step 2: Transfer to the oven to bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes, until tender with a fork (if not tender, cook 5 to 10 minutes more). Allow to cool for 5 to 10 minutes.

Tomato confit step 3: Serve. If desired, serve over tahini yogurt sauce.

Step 3: If serving with tahini yogurt sauce, stir together the ingredients for the sauce, then spread it in a layer onto a plate and top with fresh herbs. Or, serve over burrata, on pizza, in a sandwich, and more. 

Storing tomato confit

While something like garlic confit lasts for a few weeks refrigerated, we’ve found tomato confit is best served the day you make it. The tomatoes become fairly fragile and it doesn’t have quite the same look after refrigeration.

You can spoon the cooled mixture into a clean jar, seal, and store for up to 3 days. However, keep in mind the olive oil does solidify and the tomatoes tend to break apart. Allow to stand at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes until the olive oil is liquid again before serving. 

Tomato confit in pan with fresh herbs and bread.

Ways to serve tomato confit

Tomato confit is extremely versatile and can be used in so many ways! We love it best served over this creamy tahini yogurt sauce as an appetizer, using bread or crostini to dip. It’s inspired by an appetizer we had at this restaurant in France, and it is heart-meltingly good! Here are a few more ideas for how to serve it:

🍅 How do you plan to serve your tomato confit? Are you as obsessed as we are? Let us know in the comments below: we’d love to hear from you.

Tomato Confit recipe

More cherry tomato recipes

When it’s the season, we go tomato crazy! Here are a few more cherry tomato recipes you might enjoy:

Dietary notes

This tomato confit recipe is vegetarian, vegan, plant-based, dairy-free and gluten-free.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between tomato confit and roasted tomatoes?

Tomato confit requires the tomatoes to be fully submerged in oil, while roasted tomatoes are usually only lightly coated. In addition, tomato confit is cooked at a much lower temperature (around 300°F). This slow and gentle cooking process results in a softer, more jammy texture and a more concentrated flavor compared to roasted tomatoes, which are typically cooked at higher temperatures for a shorter duration.

Can I use any type of tomato for confit?

While you can technically use any type of tomato, smaller varieties like cherry or grape tomatoes are often preferred for confit as they have a higher ratio of flesh to seeds and tend to hold their shape better during the long cooking process.

What type of oil should I use for tomato confit?

A good quality extra virgin olive oil is typically recommended for tomato confit as it adds a rich flavor and helps preserve the tomatoes. However, you can also use other oils like avocado oil or grapeseed oil if you prefer.

Can I add other ingredients to my tomato confit?

Yes, you can enhance the flavor of your tomato confit by adding various herbs and spices. Common additions include garlic, thyme, rosemary, oregano, chili flakes, or even a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity.

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Tomato Confit

Tomato Confit


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

5 from 1 review

  • Author: Sonja Overhiser
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Yield: 2 cups
Save Recipe

Description

Turn tomatoes into gold with our cherry tomato confit recipe, which tastes like a burst of summer sunshine! Slow roasting cherry tomatoes in olive oil turns them rich and concentrated, with a jammy, melt-in-your-mouth texture and sweet caramelized flavor.


Ingredients

For the tomato confit 

  • 3 cups cherry tomatoes (whole)
  • ¾ cup extra virgin olive oil 
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 4 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 10 garlic cloves, smashed and peeled

For serving (optional)

  • Bread or crostini, for serving
  • ½ cup full-fat Greek yogurt
  • ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 tablespoon tahini

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 300°F. Wash and dry the tomatoes.
  2. In a small baking dish, add the cherry tomatoes, garlic, salt, thyme, and olive oil. Mix to combine. Transfer to the oven to bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes, until tender with a fork (if not tender, cook 5 to 10 minutes more). Allow to cool for 5 to 10 minutes.
  3. If serving with tahini yogurt sauce, stir together the ingredients for the sauce, then spread it in a layer onto a plate and top with fresh herbs, serving with bread or crostini for dipping. The confit is also great served over burrata as an appetizer, as a pizza topping, in a sandwich, and more. 

Notes

Storage info: Tomato confit is best served the day of making. You can also spoon the cooled mixture into a clean jar, seal, and store for up to 3 days. However, keep in mind the olive oil does solidify and the tomatoes tend to break apart. Allow to stand at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes until the olive oil is liquid again before serving. 

  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean
  • Diet: Vegan
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Tahini Yogurt Sauce https://www.acouplecooks.com/tahini-yogurt-sauce/ https://www.acouplecooks.com/tahini-yogurt-sauce/#comments Wed, 03 Jul 2024 13:30:00 +0000 https://www.acouplecooks.com/?p=162073 This tahini yogurt sauce is our go-to sauce and dip! It’s irresistibly creamy and takes just 2 minutes to whip up. We like using it as a sauce for grilled vegetables, chicken, or seafood, or topping it with tomato confit as a tasty appetizer.

Yogurt tahini sauce

Why we love this recipe

Hello and welcome to our new favorite multi-purpose condiment: Tahini Yogurt Sauce! This sauce is inspired by a sauce we had in a few different restaurants on our recent trip to France, served as a sauce with grilled meat or as an appetizer topped with vegetables.

It’s so intensely creamy and flavorful, and it comes together in just 2 minutes! We have been making it non-stop, for serving with grilled vegetables, as a dip recipe with raw vegetables, or with this tomato confit as a fun appetizer recipe. Jump to the recipe now, or hear a little more about it!

Ingredients in tahini yogurt sauce

You can make this tahini yogurt sauce with 3 ingredients in 2 minutes. Because of this, we’ve been whipping it up at every chance we get! Often it can feel like it takes forever to whip up a sauce and you end up dirtying blenders, cutting boards, and so forth. This one is so simple it’s become our go-to for everything! Here’s what you’ll need, plus salt and water:

  • Greek yogurt: Use full fat Greek yogurt for the best flavor. You can also use plain yogurt, just use less water when you dilute the sauce.
  • Tahini: This Mediterranean sesame paste is easy to find in most grocery stores.
  • Grated garlic (optional): We love it with a little grated garlic to make a punchy sauce. If you are garlic averse, leave it out and it still tastes great. We often omit the garlic if we’re serving with something that’s also garlicky (like tomato confit).
Tomato Confit with Tahini Yogurt Sauce

Ways to serve tahini yogurt sauce

This sauce is so simple and can be used in so many ways! We made it with grilled chicken the other night and it was stellar. Our favorite way is topped with tomato confit as an appetizer (see above). Here are some ideas for how to serve tahini yogurt sauce:

Leftovers and make ahead info

Yogurt tahini sauce is very simple to make ahead. Just whip it up and it stores at least 1 week refrigerated (or up to 2 weeks, depending on the expiration date on the yogurt).

Tahini Yogurt Sauce in bowl with vegetables.

Flavor variations

Wondering ways to customize this yogurt tahini sauce? Here are a few ideas:

  • Add a hint of lemon zest
  • Throw in a handful of chopped fresh herbs: dill, basil, or parsley
  • Make it spicy with a few dashes of hot sauce
  • Add a hint of sweetness with some honey

More tahini recipes

There are so many fun recipes to make with tahini, from cookies to X! Here are some of our favorite recipes with tahini:

Dietary notes

This tahini yogurt sauce is vegetarian, vegan, plant-based, dairy-free and gluten-free.

Frequently asked questions

What does tahini yogurt sauce taste like?

Tahini yogurt sauce is a creamy, tangy, and savory condiment made by combining tahini (a paste made from sesame seeds), yogurt, lemon juice, and often garlic and other spices.

What can I use tahini yogurt sauce for?

Tahini yogurt sauce is incredibly versatile. It can be used as a dip for vegetables or pita bread, a dressing for salads, a sauce for grilled meats or fish, a topping for falafel or shawarma, or even a drizzle for roasted vegetables.

Can I make tahini yogurt sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make tahini yogurt sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors will meld and develop over time, making it even more delicious.

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Yogurt tahini sauce

Tahini Yogurt Sauce (3 Ingredients!)


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No reviews

  • Author: Sonja Overhiser
  • Prep Time: 2 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 minutes
  • Yield: 4 to 6
Save Recipe

Description

This tahini yogurt sauce is our go-to sauce and dip! It’s irresistibly creamy and takes just 2 minutes to whip up. We like using it as a sauce for grilled vegetables, chicken, or seafood, or topping it with tomato confit as a tasty appetizer.


Ingredients

  • 1 cup full-fat Greek yogurt
  • ¼ teaspoon grated garlic (optional)
  • ¼ teaspoon kosher salt, plus 2 pinches
  • 2 tablespoons tahini
  • 2 teaspoons water

Instructions

  1. Stir together all ingredients in a bowl, using just enough water so that the texture comes together into a creamy sauce (all yogurts vary). Adjust flavors as necessary.
  2. Store leftovers up to 1 week refrigerated. Enjoy with fresh veggies, as a sauce for grilled vegetables or grilled chicken, or as an appetizer topped with marinated tomatoes or tomato confit.

Notes

*Alternative: we often make this without the garlic and it still tastes great! Feel free to omit if desired.

  • Category: Sauce or Dip
  • Method: No Cook
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean Inspired
  • Diet: Vegetarian
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Mediterranean Salad https://www.acouplecooks.com/mediterranean-salad/ https://www.acouplecooks.com/mediterranean-salad/#respond Tue, 02 Jul 2024 13:30:00 +0000 https://www.acouplecooks.com/?p=162040 Here’s one of our very favorite green salad recipes: this Mediterranean salad! It’s packed with crunchy fresh vegetables like cucumber and onion, juicy tomatoes, briny olives, and topped with a sprinkle of salty feta, fresh herbs, and a zingy lemony vinaigrette.

Mediterranean Salad on plate with dressing.

Why we love this recipe

If there was a green salad we make all the time, it’s this one! After over a decade of writing this food blog, I’m not sure how we haven’t shared this until now. Meet our perfect Mediterranean salad!

This salad is so satisfying, starring crunchy veggies like cucumber and onion, salty pops of feta cheese and Kalamata olives, and handfuls of fresh herbs. We are dill fiends, so we love it with herbaceous fresh dill. Top it off with our Greek Salad Dressing and it’s the perfect side dish. Or, you can top it with chicken, salmon, shrimp, or tofu for a satisfying dinner idea!

Mediterreanean Salad Ingredients.

Ingredients in Mediterranean salad

There are many ways to make a Mediterranean salad, and here’s our spin! It’s designed as a side salad, but as I mentioned above there are loads of ways to add protein to make it a main dish (my favorite thing to order when I’m out to eat). It’s one of our favorite Mediterranean diet recipes that pairs with almost any meal. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Romaine lettuce: We like the crunch of romaine. If you have to substitute, use butter lettuce.
  • Cucumber, onion, and tomato: These vegetables also star in the famous Greek salad.
  • Kalamata olives: Kalamata olives are key, but you can swap in other varieties like Castelvetrano.
  • Feta cheese: Feta is key here for the briny salty flavor, and it’s evocative of a Greek salad. You can omit it for vegan diets (or use vegan feta, purchased or homemade).
  • Dressing: We love this salad with our Greek salad dressing, but you can also use Italian dressing or tahini sauce.

How to make Mediterranean salad: basic steps

This Mediterranean salad recipe uses our favorite homemade Greek salad recipe, but it still only takes about 20 minutes to make. Here are the basic steps (or jump to the recipe):

Step 1: Chop the fresh ingredients.

Step 1: Chop the fresh ingredients.

Step 2: Add the olive oil gradually.

Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk the red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, oregano, optional garlic, and salt in a medium sized bowl. Gradually whisk in the olive oil.

3: Assemble the salad ingredients and serve.

Step 3: Add the fresh ingredients to a plate or bowl, topping with feta cheese and fresh herbs. Top with dressing and serve.

Variations and additions

How to mix up this Mediterranean salad recipe? First, you can add different vegetables or swap in different dressings. Here are a few ideas:

  • Chickpeas or white beans: To add vegan protein, add drained and rinsed chickpeas or white beans
  • Bell peppers: Add fresh chopped red or green bell pepper or even sliced roasted bell peppers.
  • Canned artichoke hearts: Chopped artichokes add a tangy flair.
  • Broccoli: Mix in a bit of raw broccoli florets, or even steamed cauliflower.
  • Quinoa: A bit of cooked quinoa also makes a heartier salad.
  • Dressing: Try Tahini Sauce, Italian Dressing, our basic Vinaigrette Recipe, or Lemon Vinaigrette instead.

Protein adders

Our other favorite thing to do with Mediterranean salad is to make it into a healthy dinner idea! Often we’ll do this when we’re ordering at a restaurant, since many have this option. It’s a great way to make this salad into a gluten free dinner. Some ideas for adding protein are:

Mediterranean Salad Recipe on plate with vinaigrette dressing.

Storing leftovers and make ahead notes

If you want to make this Mediterranean salad ahead, you can chop the vegetables in advance and make the dressing, storing both in separate containers. It’s best to chop the tomato as close to serving as possible. When serving, allow the dressing to come to room temperature, then assemble the salad.

For storing leftover salad, leftovers with dressing last for up to 1 day refrigerated (salads do become soggy over time).

More salad recipes

Before you get to the recipe, here area a few more favorite green salad recipes we love! Hope you enjoy this one and let us know in the comments below what you think.

Dietary notes

This Mediterranean salad is vegetarian and gluten-free. For plant-based, vegan and dairy-free, omit the feta cheese.

Frequently asked questions

What kind of olives should I use?

Kalamata olives are a classic choice for Mediterranean salad, but you can also use other varieties like black olives, green olives, or a mix.

Can I make the salad dressing ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the vinaigrette in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just bring it to room temperature shake it well before using to re-emulsify the dressing.

What other fresh herbs can I use besides dill?

Dill is a common herb in Mediterranean cuisine, but you can also try parsley, mint, oregano, or a combination of your favorite herbs.

How do I prevent my salad from getting soggy?

To avoid a soggy salad, wait to dress the salad until right before serving. You can also pat the vegetables dry after washing them to remove excess moisture.

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Mediterranean Salad

Mediterranean Salad


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Sonja Overhiser
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4
Save Recipe

Description

Here’s one of our very favorite green salad recipes: this Mediterranean salad! It’s packed with crunchy fresh vegetables like cucumber and onion, juicy tomatoes, briny olives, and topped with a sprinkle of salty feta, fresh herbs, and a zingy lemony vinaigrette. It’s a hit every time we serve it!


Ingredients

  • 8 cups lettuce, chopped into bite sized pieces
  • ⅓ cup olives, sliced in half
  • 1/2 English cucumber, chopped
  • 2 small tomatoes or 1 cup cherry tomatoes 
  • ½ cup feta cheese
  • ¼ cup sliced red onion
  • 1 handful chopped or torn fresh herbs (dill, basil, cilantro or parsley)
  • 1 recipe Greek Salad Dressing:
    • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
    • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
    • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
    • 1 teaspoon dried oregano or za’atar
    • ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
    • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
    • 6 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

  1. Chop the fresh vegetables as noted above.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, oregano, kosher salt and black pepper. Gradually whisk in the olive oil, adding 1 tablespoon at a time and whisking until it incorporates, until an emulsion forms. Serve immediately. Store refrigerated and bring to room temperature before serving (keeps at least 2 weeks). The dressing may separate after sitting which is okay; simply whisk again before serving.
  3. To serve, place the greens on a plate. Top with the vegetables, then feta crumbles and herbs. Drizzle with the desired amount of dressing and serve.

Notes

As an alterative, substitute Tahini Sauce for the Greek Salad Dressing.

Variations: Add drained rinsed chickpeas or chopped red or green bell pepper.

Protein adders: Consider topping with grilled chicken, pan seared chicken, baked salmon, seared salmon, sauteed shrimp, grilled shrimp kabobs, or baked tofu.

If you want to make this Mediterranean salad ahead, you can chop the vegetables in advance and make the dressing, storing both in separate containers. It’s best to chop the tomato as close to serving as possible. When serving, allow the dressing to come to room temperature, then assemble the salad.

For storing leftover salad, leftovers with dressing last for up to 1 day refrigerated (salads do become soggy over time).

  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Raw
  • Cuisine: Salad
  • Diet: Vegetarian
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Chicken Pesto Sandwich https://www.acouplecooks.com/chicken-pesto-sandwich/ https://www.acouplecooks.com/chicken-pesto-sandwich/#comments Mon, 01 Jul 2024 13:30:00 +0000 https://www.acouplecooks.com/?p=146217 One of our ultimate sandwiches is this chicken pesto sandwich! It stars grilled chicken breast topped with herby basil pesto, fresh mozzarella, and ripe tomatoes, all nestled between two slices of crusty bread.

Chicken pesto sandwich

There’s nothing we love more than an over-the-top sandwich: and even better, one that’s pretty simple to put together. So here’s a new favorite for me and Alex: this chicken pesto sandwich!

Why we love this recipe: This sammie masterpiece combines our favorite juicy grilled chicken with grilled ciabatta bread, baby arugula, soft fresh mozzarella cheese, and juicy tomato slices. The best part, of course, is our herbaceous basil pesto. You know when you sink your teeth into a great sandwich and can’t help but exclaim “yum“? That’s this sandwich.

Tip: Want to serve a vegetarian version of this sandwich at the same time? Replace the grilled chicken with grilled portobello mushrooms or grilled eggplant.

Ingredients for a chicken pesto sandwich

A chicken pesto sandwich can be made in many ways: simply combine basil pesto with chicken on bread in any number of combinations! But we like it best as a variation on a Caprese sandwich: with fresh mozzarella and tomato to optimize the color, texture and flavor contrasts. It’s best if you can make this sandwich with homemade basil pesto, but purchased works in a pinch. Here are the ingredients you’ll need:

  • Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Look for organic chicken if possible, in cutlets or breasts (and you can butterfly them before cooking).
  • Spices & olive oil: A blend of garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt and pepper is ideal for grilling for the chicken.
  • Ciabatta bread: Ciabatta is a type of Italian bread that is soft and perfect for sandwiches! Avoid a French baguette, which can be tough to bite through. Any other type of artisan bread works: focaccia is especially good.
  • Baby arugula: Arugula adds a crunch and peppery flavor. Look for baby arugula (sold in a box or bag): standard arugula sold in bunches is much too spicy.
  • Tomato slices: Use only the best, juicy in season tomatoes.
  • Basil pesto: Homemade pesto is key to the flavor. In our opinion, the best purchased option is refrigerated fresh pesto, found in the produce section. 

💡Why buy organic chicken? We recommend buying organic since it’s the high-quality meat that is raised sustainably without chemicals. Organic standards require that the chickens have access to the outdoors and cannot be given antibiotics or growth hormones (happy chickens!).

Grilled Chicken on a plate

Tips for cooking the chicken

The best chicken pesto sandwich uses grilled chicken, which infuses irresistible smoky notes into the flavor. But if you don’t have a grill, you can also pan fry the chicken! Here are a few notes:

  • Butterfly the chicken first. Butterflying chicken is simply cutting it in half horizontally, which helps it to cook more evenly and results in a more juicy, well-seasoned breast.
  • For best results, grill the chicken. Make our Grilled Chicken for the best flavor. This involves a 30 minute marinade time and 2 to 4 minutes per side on a grill preheated to high heat.
  • Or, pan sear the chicken! You can do the same recipe in a skillet! Go to Pan Seared Chicken Breast.
Pesto chicken sandwich

Homemade vs purchased pesto

This chicken pesto sandwich looks and tastes best with homemade basil pesto. But of course, this isn’t always possible. Here are a few pesto tips:

  • Homemade pesto has the best flavor and color. Make a batch of basil pesto if you can. Other options are arugula pesto or kale pesto, which have a slightly spicier flavor, or even sun dried tomato pesto.
  • Or try refrigerated fresh pesto, found in the produce section. In our taste tests, we’ve found this type of pesto tends has better flavor than pesto in jars. It’s often sold in tubes.
  • Jarred pesto brands can taste bitter; consider adding lemon. Each brand has a different salt and acid level, and some taste very bitter and acidic. Adding a spritz of fresh lemon juice can help to improve the flavor.
Basil Pesto Recipe

Storing leftovers and make ahead tips

This chicken pesto sandwich is great for anytime, from cookouts to picnics to easy dinners. Alex and I were happy to find this sandwich one does hold up well over time, too! But here are a few tips:

  • The tomato and mozzarella can make the bread soggy. If you layer the arugula under the mozzarella, it helps so this ingredient doesn’t come in contact with the bread. If you can, add the sliced tomato just before serving, or place the tomato between the chicken and cheese.
  • If serving within 2 hours, refrigeration is not needed. Cooked chicken can sit up to 2 hours at room temperature.
  • Otherwise, wrap and refrigerate or keep in a cooler until serving. The bread can become tough when refrigerated, so allow the sandwich to come to room temperature before serving.

More sandwich recipes

This chicken pesto sandwich is one of our favorite summer dinner recipes! It works for either lunch or dinner, making it super versatile for meals throughout the week. Here are a few more sandwich recipes you might enjoy:

Dietary notes

This chicken pesto sandwich is gluten-free with gluten-free bread. For dairy free, use vegan pesto and omit the cheese.

For vegetarian, replace the grilled chicken with grilled portobello mushrooms or grilled eggplant.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of mozzarella?

Absolutely! While mozzarella complements the flavors of the pesto and grilled chicken well, you can substitute it with provolone, fontina, or even burrata for a creamier texture.

What type of bread works best for this sandwich?

Choose a bread that can hold up to the juicy chicken and pesto. Ciabatta, focaccia, or a crusty sourdough bread are all good options. You can also try a gluten-free bread if desired.

What are some other toppings I can add to this sandwich?

Get creative with your toppings! Here are some ideas:

Roasted red peppers
Caramelized onions
Arugula or spinach
Sliced avocado
Balsamic glaze

Can I make this sandwich vegetarian?

Yes! Simply replace the grilled chicken with grilled portobello mushrooms or grilled eggplant slices for a delicious vegetarian option.

Print
Chicken Pesto Sandwich

Chicken Pesto Sandwich


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

5 from 1 review

  • Author: Sonja Overhiser
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Marinating Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 4 to 8 minutes
  • Total Time: 0 hours
  • Yield: 2
Save Recipe

Description

One of our ultimate sandwiches is this chicken pesto sandwich! It stars grilled chicken breast topped with herby basil pesto, fresh mozzarella, and ripe tomatoes, all nestled between two slices of crusty bread.


Ingredients

  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound, organic if possible), butterflied or cutlets
  • ½ tablespoon olive oil, plus more for drizzling
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • 4 slices ciabatta bread (or focaccia bread, or another artisan style bread)
  • 1 cup baby arugula
  • 2 tomato slices
  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil pesto
  • 4 oz fresh mozzarella, thinly sliced

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken dry with a paper towel. If not already butterflied, place your hand over the top of each chicken breast. Use a sharp knife to carefully slice the breast horizontally, leaving the edge intact so it can open up like a book (or butterfly!). Unfold the breast like a book, then cut along the fold to separate the two halves.
  2. Add the chicken to a container and add the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, kosher salt, and a few grinds of black pepper. Mix with your hands until evenly coated. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for 30 minutes (or up to 24 hours).
  3. Preheat a grill to high heat (450 to 550°F)*. Drizzle a bit of olive oil on the ciabatta bread.
  4. Grill the chicken breasts until grill marks appear and it releases from the grates, 2 to 4 minutes. Flip and cook until no longer pink in the center and the internal temperature is 165°F, 2 to 4 minutes. Remove to a platter and cover with foil. Allow to rest for 5 minutes for maximum juiciness.
  5. Grill the ciabatta until lightly browned, 1 to 2 minutes per side.
  6. Place the arugula in a bowl and mix with a small drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of kosher salt. To make the sandwich, on one slice of bread layer arugula, fresh mozzarella cheese, grilled chicken, pesto, and sliced tomato (seasoned with 2 pinches of salt). Top with the remaining bread slice and enjoy.

Notes

*You can also pan fry the chicken by cooking it in a skillet with olive oil over medium high heat for 2 to 4 minutes per side (skip the marinading time).

  • Category: Main dish
  • Method: Grilled
  • Cuisine: Chicken
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Mediterranean Bowl https://www.acouplecooks.com/mediterranean-bowl/ https://www.acouplecooks.com/mediterranean-bowl/#comments Sun, 30 Jun 2024 13:30:00 +0000 https://www.acouplecooks.com/?p=139256 This Mediterranean bowl is bursting with fresh ingredients! Roasted vegetables, couscous and lemon tahini sauce make a satisfying meal.

Mediterranean Bowl

Why we love this recipe

Looking for fresh and healthy dinner ideas? Try this Mediterranean bowl, bursting with colorful veggies! It’s a simple “meal in a bowl” that stars spiced roasted vegetables, seasoned with an irresistible mix of cumin, coriander, garlic and a hint of cinnamon.

Add to that quinoa or couscous, fresh cucumber and tomato, and top it all off with a creamy lemon tahini sauce. The flavor and texture contrasts make it so satisfying, and it’s a tried and true easy dinner idea in our house!

Ingredients in this Mediterranean bowl

A Mediterranean bowl can be made in a variety of ways: this one is simply a bowl meal inspired by flavors of the Mediterranean. It features four main components: roasted vegetables, fresh vegetables, whole grain, and a tahini dressing.

It’s so full of flavor, you’ll forget it’s a pile of good-for-you ingredients (plus, it’s vegan and fits the Daniel Fast with one modification). Of course, there are endless variations here and you can riff on the ideas easily. Here’s what you’ll need to make the recipe as written:

  • Canned chickpeas: Chickpeas provide plant-based protein for this colorful bowl.
  • Sweet potatoes, red bell pepper, red onion, and olive oil: Mix up these veggies and make them into a mix of roasted vegetables.
  • Cumin, paprika, garlic powder, coriander, cinnamon, and salt: This Mediterranean-inspired spice mix adds depth to the roasted vegetables.
  • Quinoa or couscous (or other grain): Add any whole grain you like to this hearty bowl.
  • Cherry tomatoes and English cucumber: These fresh vegetables add tang and crunch.
  • Salad greens: We used a mix of spring greens, but baby arugula or other greens also work.
  • Lemon tahini dressing: Top it off with this creamy, zingy dressing.
Mediterranean Bowl

Making the lemon tahini dressing

You can put almost anything you like in this Mediterranean bowl: just make sure you make the lemon tahini dressing! Tahini is a Middle Eastern condiment that’s a paste made of toasted sesame seeds. It’s an extremely versatile ingredient you can use to make hummus, sauces and even desserts. For the lemon tahini sauce, you’ll simply combine it with fresh lemon juice, olive oil, honey or sugar (to balance the acidity), and garlic.

  • Where to find tahini? You can find it in your local grocery store, many times in the international aisle. It is sometimes also located near the peanut butter and other nut butters.
  • Try a squeeze bottle! Tahini is notoriously hard to measure out, but some brands have convenient squeeze bottles now that make thing easy.

Use quinoa, couscous, or another grain

This Mediterranean bowl works with any type of whole grain! Most often we like to pick a hearty, gluten-free whole grain like rice or quinoa. But when we have the need for speed, we like using couscous or orzo because they’re so quick. Keep in mind that these are both actually pasta (and not suitable for a gluten-free diet). Here are a few grains that would be perfect in this Mediterranean bowl:

Mediterranean Bowl

Mediterranean bowl variations and add-ins

The bowl meal concept is ripe for variations and add-ins, and this Mediterranean bowl is a very loose idea. Use it as a template for adding any Mediterranean-style ingredients you like! It’s similar to our Hummus Bowls, which you can use for more inspiration. Here are a few other ingredients that would fit perfectly into this tasty bowl:

  • Kalamata olives
  • Red onion
  • Roasted red peppers
  • Sundried tomatoes
  • Fresh dill or oregano
  • Feta cheese crumbles
  • Falafel (homemade or purchased)
  • Hummus
  • Pita chips

More Mediterranean recipes

This recipe fits the Mediterranean diet, a style of eating that features fresh vegetables, healthy fats and whole grains. It’s a vegan recipe and also Daniel Fast-approved, if you omit the honey from the lemon tahini dressing. Here are a few more Mediterranean-style recipes you might enjoy:

Dietary notes

This Mediterranean bowl recipe is vegetarian, vegan, plant-based, dairy-free and gluten-free.

Frequently asked questions

Can I prepare the roasted vegetables ahead of time?

Absolutely! Roasted vegetables can be made a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Simply reheat them in the oven or microwave before assembling your bowls.

Can I use a different type of grain in this recipe?

While this recipe calls for quinoa, you can easily substitute it with other grains or pasta like brown rice, farro, orzo, or couscous. You could even use brown lentils to make it a high protein vegetarian meal.

How long will leftovers keep?

Leftover roasted vegetables can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 days. Leftover lemon tahini sauce can be stored up to 2 weeks refrigerated.

Print
Mediterranean Bowl

Mediterranean Bowl


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

5 from 5 reviews

  • Author: Sonja Overhiser
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4
Save Recipe

Description

This Mediterranean bowl is bursting with fresh ingredients! Roasted vegetables, couscous and lemon tahini sauce make a satisfying meal.


Ingredients

  • 15-ounce can chickpeas, drained and rinsed (or 1 ½ cups cooked)
  • 2 medium sweet potatoes (1 ½ pounds), diced into half-inch cubes
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 red onion, sliced
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt, divided
  • 2 teaspoons cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon ground coriander
  • ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 cup quinoa (or 1 cup couscous)
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes, sliced in half
  • 1/2 English cucumber, sliced into half moons
  • Mixed salad greens, for serving
  • 1 recipe Lemon Tahini Dressing

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the chickpeas, sweet potatoes, red pepper and red onion. Toss with the olive oil and 1 ½ teaspoons of the kosher salt. Then toss with the cumin, paprika, garlic powder, coriander, and cinnamon. 
  3. Divide the vegetables evenly between the two baking sheets and spread in an even layer. Roast for 20 minutes, then remove from the oven and stir. Roast another 5 to 10 minutes until the sweet potatoes are tender.
  4. Meanwhile, cook the quinoa (or make Easy Couscous): Rinse the quinoa in cold water using a fine mesh strainer, then drain it and shake out the remaining water. Place it in a saucepan with 1 ¾ cups water and ¼ teaspoon kosher salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low where the water is just bubbling. Cover the pot and simmer where the water is just bubbling for about 15 to 18 minutes, until the water has been completely absorbed. Check by pulling back the quinoa with a fork to see if water remains. Turn off the heat and let sit with the lid on to steam for 5 minutes, then fluff the quinoa with a fork. 
  5. Make the Lemon Tahini Dressing (store leftovers refrigerated for up to 2 weeks or make in advance). 
  6. To serve, place the roasted vegetables over the couscous and salad greens in shallow bowls. Add piles of fresh cucumbers and tomatoes. Drizzle with the dressing and serve. Store leftover roasted vegetables for up to 3 days refrigerated. 
  • Category: Main dish
  • Method: Roasted
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean
  • Diet: Vegan
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