Recipes

Potato Wedges made in the Air Fryer!

  • 4 medium potatoes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and paprika.
  3. Mix all ingredients until well combined.
  4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
  5. Wash the potatoes and cut them into wedges.
  6. In a large bowl, toss the potato wedges with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
  7. Arrange the potato wedges in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
  8. Air fry for 15-20 minutes or until the potato wedges are golden brown and crispy, flipping them halfway through the cooking time.
  9. Once the potato wedges are done, remove them from the air fryer and transfer them to a serving dish.
  10. Remove the aioli sauce from the refrigerator and give it a good stir.
  11. Garnish with chopped parsley (optional) and serve with the aioli sauce on the side.

I do LOVE Potato Wedges

Potato wedges are my absolute favorite kind of fries. There’s just something about their crispy exterior and soft, fluffy interior that I can’t resist. And when they’re coated in garlic and served with a creamy aioli sauce? It’s a match made in heaven.

To make my garlic potato wedges, I start by slicing my potatoes into thick wedges. Then, I toss them with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Once they’re coated evenly, I place them in my air fryer and cook them until they’re golden brown and crispy.

While the wedges cook, I whip up a quick aioli sauce to serve on the side. I combine mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt, stirring until everything is well combined. The result is a creamy, garlicky sauce that perfectly complements the crispy potato wedges.

Whenever I make these garlic potato wedges with aioli sauce, they’re always a hit. They’re the perfect side dish for burgers, hot dogs, or anything else you might be grilling up. Plus, they’re a healthier alternative to traditional fried potatoes, since they’re made in the air fryer with minimal oil.

~Denny

Some homework for anyone who loves potato wedges as much as I do (or their air fryer):

  1. How to make crispy diner-style potato wedges at home – https://www.bonappetit.com/story/crispy-potato-wedges
  2. Classic diner-style potato wedges recipe – https://www.food.com/recipe/classic-diner-style-potato-wedges-116085
  3. Diner-style potato wedges with garlic and herbs – https://www.simplyscratch.com/2015/10/diner-style-potato-wedges-with-garlic-and-herbs.html
  4. Air fryer tips and tricks for beginners – https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/appliances/a30412901/air-fryer-tips/

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10 April 2023 by Recipes 0

Rosemary Lamb Chops with Mint Sauce

Ingredients:

  • 6 lamb chops
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp. fresh rosemary leaves, chopped
  • Salt and pepper
  • 2 tbsp. olive oil

For the Mint Sauce:

  • 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) for conventional ovens or 350°F (175°C) for convection ovens.
  2. Season the lamb chops with minced garlic, chopped rosemary leaves, salt, and pepper on both sides.
  3. Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the lamb chops to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned.
  4. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes for medium-rare or 12-15 minutes for medium.
  5. While the lamb chops are cooking, make the mint sauce by whisking together the mint leaves, red wine vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
  6. Once the lamb chops are done, remove them from the oven and let them rest for 5-10 minutes before serving with the mint sauce.

Enjoy your delicious Baked Lamb Chops with Rosemary and Mint Sauce!

Cook Time:

  • Conventional Oven: 10-15 minutes
  • Convection Oven: 8-12 minutes

Note: Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the lamb chops. It’s always best to use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the lamb reaches 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare or 160°F (71°C) for medium.

A Little Background on my Easter Lambchops:

Easter has always been a time for family and good food, and this recipe for baked lamb chops has become a new tradition in our household. Three years ago, my mother came to visit for the holiday and we decided to try our hand at making lamb chops for dinner. It was a bit of an experiment, but with some trial and error, we came up with a recipe that was not only delicious but also easy to make.

One thing that I love about this dish is how it highlights the natural flavors of the lamb. It’s not overwhelmed by heavy seasonings or sauces, but instead, is paired with a light and refreshing mint jelly. Mint is a classic pairing with lamb, and for good reason – the cool, refreshing taste of the mint perfectly complements the rich, savory flavor of the meat.

I also appreciate the history and tradition behind lamb as an Easter dish. While ham is often the go-to for Easter, lamb has been enjoyed during this holiday for centuries. It’s a nod to the religious significance of the holiday, as well as a reminder of the importance of gathering with loved ones to share a special meal.

Overall, this recipe for baked lamb chops with mint jelly is a perfect addition to any Easter dinner menu. It’s a delicious and easy way to enjoy this classic holiday dish, and it’s sure to become a new tradition in your household, just as it has in mine.

-Denny

Some more resources for other Lamb lovers

  1. “Why do we eat lamb at Easter?” by BBC Good Food: https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/howto/guide/why-do-we-eat-lamb-easter
  2. “9 Different Ways to Cook Lamb” by Bon Appétit: https://www.bonappetit.com/recipes/slideshow/9-different-ways-to-cook-lamb
  3. “How to Cook the Perfect Lamb Chop” by Food & Wine: https://www.foodandwine.com/recipes/perfect-lamb-chops
  4. “Lamb: The Forgotten Meat in North America?” by The Culture Trip: https://theculturetrip.com/north-america/usa/articles/lamb-the-forgotten-meat-in-north-america/
  5. “How to Cook a Leg of Lamb” by Serious Eats: https://www.seriouseats.com/how-to-roast-a-leg-of-lamb-recipe

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9 April 2023 by Recipes 0

Guilty Pleasure Mac and Cheese

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 2 cups shredded gouda cheese
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs or crushed cracker crumbs

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F for conventional ovens or 350°F for convection ovens.
  2. Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until smooth. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
  4. Gradually add the milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue cooking and whisking until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
  5. Add the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, and dried oregano. Stir well to combine.
  6. Add the shredded gouda cheese to the sauce and stir until melted and smooth.
  7. Add the cooked macaroni to the sauce and stir until well coated.
  8. Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  9. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs or crushed cracker crumbs over the top of the macaroni and cheese.
  10. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
  11. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Church Mac and Cheese is the best!

Growing up, church picnics were a staple of my summers, and the one thing I always looked forward to was the mac and cheese. It was creamy, cheesy, and always had a crispy breadcrumb topping. It was like nothing I had ever tasted before, and to this day, I still crave it. That’s why I decided to create my own version of this classic dish.

This mac and cheese recipe is a labor of love. It’s not health food, and it’s not meant to be. It’s meant for friends and family gathered around a table, enjoying each other’s company and indulging in something extra tasty. It’s the perfect dish for a holiday dinner like Easter, or any special occasion where you want to treat your loved ones to something truly special.

The key to this recipe is the combination of cheeses. Gouda gives the mac and cheese a rich, smoky flavor, while cheddar adds a sharpness that balances out the creaminess of the sauce. I also like to add some herbs to the mix, like thyme and parsley, to give it an extra pop of flavor.

When it comes to the topping, I use a combination of breadcrumbs and cracker crumbs. The crumbs get toasted and crunchy in the oven, adding a nice texture to the dish. And of course, I always finish it off with a generous layer of melted gouda on top.

This recipe is my way of paying homage to those church picnics of my childhood. It’s a dish that brings people together and creates memories that last a lifetime. So the next time you’re looking for a comforting, indulgent meal to share with your loved ones, give this church mac and cheese a try. I promise it won’t disappoint.

~Denny

Some homework for those who truly love Mac and Cheese!

  1. “The Best Macaroni and Cheese Recipe Ever” from Southern Living: https://www.southernliving.com/recipes/best-macaroni-cheese-recipe-ever
  2. “New York-Style Macaroni and Cheese” from Food Network: https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/new-york-style-macaroni-and-cheese-recipe-2043359
  3. “Jalapeño Popper Mac and Cheese” from Delish: https://www.delish.com/uk/cooking/recipes/a31001811/jalapeno-popper-mac-and-cheese-recipe/
  4. “Baked Mac and Cheese with Breadcrumbs” from Martha Stewart: https://www.marthastewart.com/318808/baked-macaroni-and-cheese-with-breadcrumbs

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8 April 2023 by Recipes 0

Oven Roasted Asparagus: A great Easter side!

Ingredients:

  • 1 bunch of asparagus, trimmed
  • 4-5 slices of bacon, chopped into small pieces
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (conventional) or 375°F (convection).
  2. Arrange the trimmed asparagus in a single layer on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Toss the asparagus gently to coat them evenly with the seasoning.
  4. Add the chopped bacon to the baking sheet, scattering it over the asparagus.
  5. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, until the asparagus is tender and the bacon is crispy.
  6. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and transfer the asparagus and bacon to a serving dish.
  7. Serve hot as a side dish or as a tasty appetizer.

Cooking time and temperature for conventional oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F and bake for 12-15 minutes.

Cooking time and temperature for convection oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F and bake for 12-15 minutes.

A little Easter Treat!

I love asparagus and always look forward to the spring when it’s in season. One of my favorite recipes is oven roasted asparagus with crispy bacon bits. This dish is perfect for any occasion, especially Easter. As a child, my mom used to make this dish as a side for our Easter dinner, and it quickly became my favorite. I continue to make this dish every year as a tribute to my mom’s cooking and the memories we shared.

To make this dish, I start by preheating the oven to 400°F (200°C) for a conventional oven or 375°F (190°C) for a convection oven. I then toss the asparagus in olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast them in the oven for 10-15 minutes until they are tender and slightly browned. Meanwhile, I fry bacon until it’s crispy and chop it into small pieces.

Once the asparagus is done, I sprinkle the bacon bits over the top and gently toss them. The salty and smoky flavors of the bacon perfectly complement the natural sweetness of the asparagus, making it a crowd-pleasing side dish for any occasion.

This recipe is not only delicious but also very easy to make. It’s a great way to incorporate asparagus into your menu and is perfect for Easter dinner or any springtime gathering. So, if you’re looking for a simple and tasty side dish to add to your menu, I highly recommend trying this recipe.

-Denny

Here’s some reading homework for other asparagus lovers:

  1. “Traditional Easter Foods From Around the World” by Reader’s Digest: https://www.readersdigest.ca/food/cooking-tips/traditional-easter-foods-around-the-world/
  2. “5 Health Benefits of Asparagus” by Healthline: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/asparagus-benefits
  3. “Easter Recipes From Around the World” by Food & Wine: https://www.foodandwine.com/holidays-events/easter/easter-recipes-around-world
  4. “All About Asparagus: Health Benefits, Risks, Nutrition Facts, and More” by Everyday Health: https://www.everydayhealth.com/diet-nutrition/diet/asparagus-health-benefits-nutrition-facts-recipes-more/
  5. “Asparagus Plant: A Growing Guide” by The Old Farmer’s Almanac: https://www.almanac.com/plant/asparagus

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7 April 2023 by Recipes 0

Lentil Soup: Healthy and Hearty

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups dried lentils, rinsed and drained
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
  2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
  3. Add the lentils, broth, cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
  4. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 35-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
  5. Remove the bay leaf from the soup and discard. Add the red wine vinegar and stir well.
  6. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until it is mostly smooth. (Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender and blend until smooth, then return the soup to the pot.)
  7. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. If the soup is too thick, add a little more broth or water to thin it out.
  8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.

My thoughts on this dish:

Lentil soup is one of my favorite dishes. I enjoy experimenting with the different spices and seasonings involved, as it turns the cooking process into a bit of a mad scientist experiment. It’s also vegetarian-friendly and good for all seasons.

To start, I sauté diced onions, carrots, and celery in olive oil until they’re soft and fragrant. Then I add in garlic and spices like cumin, coriander, and smoked paprika, which add depth and complexity to the soup’s flavor profile.

Next, I add in dried lentils, vegetable broth, and a can of diced tomatoes. I let the soup simmer for about 30-40 minutes, until the lentils are tender and the flavors have melded together.

Just before serving, I add in chopped fresh spinach, which adds a pop of color and nutrition to the dish. I also like to top my soup with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley, which adds a creamy texture and bright herbaceousness to the dish.

When I serve the lentil soup, I like to pair it with a crusty baguette or some warm naan bread for dipping. The dish is comforting, hearty, and incredibly satisfying, making it the perfect choice for an easy weeknight dinner.

-Denny

Further resources on Lentils and what a cool ingredient they are:

  1. “10 Health Benefits of Lentils” by Healthline: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/lentils-benefits
  2. “7 Surprising Benefits of Lentils” by EatingWell: https://www.eatingwell.com/article/15509/7-surprising-benefits-of-lentils/
  3. “Why Lentils Are One of the World’s Healthiest Foods” by One Green Planet: https://www.onegreenplanet.org/natural-health/why-lentils-are-one-of-the-worlds-healthiest-foods/
  4. “Lentils: Nutrition, Benefits, Side Effects, and More” by WebMD: https://www.webmd.com/diet/lentils-health-benefits
  5. “Lentils: The little legume that could” by BBC Good Food: https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/howto/guide/lentils-little-legume-could

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6 April 2023 by Recipes 0

Maple Glazed Salmon: Light and easy!

Ingredients:

  • 4 salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless, about 6 ounces each)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) for a conventional oven, or 375°F (190°C) for a convection oven. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
  2. Season the salmon fillets with salt and black pepper on both sides.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, chopped rosemary, and minced garlic until well combined.
  4. Brush the maple glaze generously over the salmon fillets, making sure to coat them evenly.
  5. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, skin-side down if using skin-on fillets.
  6. Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. If you prefer your salmon medium-rare, you can reduce the cooking time by a few minutes.
  7. Remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
  8. Serve the maple glazed salmon with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the fish.

My thoughts on this recipe:

My goal with this Maple Glazed Salmon recipe is to create a dish that is both light and flavorful, without overcooking the salmon. Many restaurants tend to overcook their salmon, resulting in a tasteless and dry dish. That’s why I’m careful when cooking mine and take a lot of care to find just the right cooking time.

Salmon is a delicate fish that requires a gentle touch when cooking. Overcooking it can turn it into a dry and rubbery mess, so it’s important to keep a close eye on the cooking process. This recipe aims to keep things moist and tender, while bringing out its natural flavor.

To achieve this, I set the oven at 400°F (200°C) and bake for 12-15 minutes (adjust for convection oven), depending on how well done you like your salmon. This method allows for gentle and even heat distribution, which helps ensure the salmon cooks nicely and doesn’t dry out.

I flavor the salmon with a simple yet delicious glaze, made with pure maple syrup, dijon mustard, chopped fresh rosemary, and minced garlic. This glaze adds a sweet and savory flavor to the salmon without overpowering its natural taste. The rosemary and garlic brings in an herbaceous flavor, which complements the sweetness of the maple syrup.

In the end, this recipe is all about balance. By being careful with the cooking time and choosing the right flavors, I believe you can create a dish that is both light and flavorful, bringing out the best in this delicious fish. Give it a try and discover just how easy and delicious it can be to cook salmon at home!

-Denny

Further resources about Salmon (the fish) as well as some cool resources on cooking:

  1. “The Plight of Wild Salmon” – National Geographic – https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/2019/07/wild-salmon-conservation/
  2. “The Secret Life of Salmon” – Smithsonian Magazine – https://www.smithsonianmag.com/science-nature/secret-life-of-salmon-16206763/
  3. “Salmon and the Circle of Life” – Alaska Department of Fish and Game – https://www.adfg.alaska.gov/index.cfm?adfg=salmon.main
  4. “How to Cook Salmon: Everything You Need to Know” – Bon Appétit – https://www.bonappetit.com/story/how-to-cook-salmon-every-which-way

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5 April 2023 by Recipes 0

Tangy Buffalo Chicken Dip – a tailgate classic

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
  • 1/2 cup ranch dressing
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup buffalo sauce (I prefer Texas Pete, but choose the brand of your liking!)
  • 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions
  • Tortilla chips, for serving

Instructions:

  1. Preheat conventional oven to 350°F (180°C) or convection oven to 325°F (160°C).
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream cheese, buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, blue cheese, and green onions. Stir until well combined.
  3. Transfer the mixture to an oven-safe baking dish.
  4. For conventional oven: Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the dip is heated through and bubbly on top. For convection oven: Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the dip is heated through and bubbly on top.
  5. Remove the dip from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
  6. Serve warm with tortilla chips on the side. Enjoy!

The story of my famous Buffalo Chicken dip!

Let me tell you about my famous tangy buffalo chicken dip recipe! It started when I was experimenting with different ways to make buffalo chicken wings. I decided to create a dip that had all the flavors of the wings, but was easier to make and share with friends.

Now, every time I get together with neighbors or friends to watch a game or hang out, they always ask me to bring my buffalo chicken dip along. It’s become a staple of tailgates, get togethers, and parties, and I take pride in knowing that everyone enjoys it.

My secret to making the BEST buffalo chicken dip is using my favorite hot sauce, Texas Pete. It’s the perfect balance of heat and flavor that really brings the dip to life. While I’m a bit partial to Pete, I would encourage my readers to pick the sauce of their choosing to make this recipe their own. I also use a blend of shredded chicken, cream cheese, and sour cream to give it a creamy and tangy texture.

When I make this dip, I always serve it hot and bubbly straight out of the oven. It’s perfect for dipping chips, crackers, or even celery sticks. And if you’re really feeling indulgent, you can even spread it on a slice of bread for a delicious sandwich.

If you want to try making this dip for yourself, the recipe is really simple. Just mix together the chicken, cream cheese, sour cream, hot sauce, and spices, then bake it in the oven until it’s hot and bubbly. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress your friends and family.

-Denny

More Reading for great tailgate food ideas:

  1. “50 Tailgate Food Ideas That Will Score Big on Game Day” from Taste of Home: https://www.tasteofhome.com/collection/tailgate-food-ideas/
  2. “25 Easy Tailgate Food Ideas That Are Total Crowd-Pleasers” from Delish: https://www.delish.com/entertaining/g2173/tailgating-food-ideas/
  3. “101 Best Tailgate Food Ideas” from What’s Cooking America: https://whatscookingamerica.net/tailgate.htm
  4. “20 Tailgating Recipes to Make for Your Next Game Day” from Food Network: https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/photos/tailgating-recipes-to-make-for-your-next-game-day

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4 April 2023 by Recipes 0