Author: Emily Gautreaux

Ten Savory Recipes Ideal for the Backyard Grill

This summer, more and more families are relishing in the outdoor environment for entertainment, community, and of course, utilizing the backyard grill. Chef John, an acclaimed grill master shares over a dozen delicious grill-ready recipes as a part of an AllReceipes.com series. The recipes included in this series are ideal for a family and friends grilling event.

Grilled Five Spice Chicken

Chef John’s take on a popular Southeast Asian grilled chicken dish is composed of a marinade with five-spice seasoning, lime juice, ginger, garlic, chile sauce, fish sauce, rice vinegar, and soy sauce. One look at the simple, yet brightly colored sauce will have you salivating at this classic, flavorful chicken.

Grilled Swordfish Bruschetta

Two simple, yet essential keys to this receipt are revealed by Chef John to unlock this dish’s optimal flavor. “First, add enough oil and vinegar to your tomatoes to make a good amount of ‘sauce’ with which to douse the grilled fish and bread. Second, grill the bread very well over the coals. It should be golden brown with distinctive charred grill marks. The bitter hit from these stripes of charred bread actually makes the tomatoes even sweeter and more delicious.” This swordfish is perfect for mixing things up when cooking on your backyard grill. 

Grilled Mongolian Pork Chops

These mongolian pork chops are made possible with a flavorful marinade that combines sweet, spicy, and sour ingredients, including three types of vinegar, hot sauce, and sugar. This marinade is ideal for thicker pork chops.

Grilled Korean-Style Beef Short Ribs

Great Korean short ribs really rely on thinly-sliced beef. These cuts will only be on the grill for a few hot minutes preside, and the key to succulent beef short ribs is the Asian pear marinade with rice vinegar, sherry wine, poison sauce, samba hot sauce, and sesame oil.

Grilled Garlic and Herb Shrimp

For this backyard grill recipe’s best flavor, it’s recommended that you obtain extra-large shrimp, so that, as Chef john says, “they can grill longer and get maximum caramelization.” This recipe includes a quickly-prepared, fresh herb sauce to drizzle over your grilled shrimp.

Grilled Game Hens

This receives simple marinade is made with jalapeño and habanero peppers, which bring real heat to this summer treat. If unable to find Cornish Hens, chicken drumsticks are substitute-friendly.

Grilled Lamb with Mint Orange Sauce

These story lamb chops are flavored with Mediterranean herbs and spices, inviting you to finish them off with orange marmalade, chili flakes, rice vinegar, and fresh mint for impeccable taste.  Perfect for the backyard grill and your family will think you are a 5 star chef. 

Grilled Greek Chicken

Simple grilled chicken isn’t bland, if prepared the right way, by maximizing flavor when incorporating a very powerful marinade and roasting the chicken over semi-indirect heat from the grill.

Laotian Grilled Chicken (Ping Gai)

This asian-inspired recipe for chicken marinade is composed of cilantro, soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, and pepper to produce a sweet, garlicky dipping sauce for unforgettable, flavorful backyard grilled chicken.

Grilled Mahi-Mahi with Spicy Mango Sauce

Top off this grilled mahi-mahi with a summer favorite, mango with with spicy has-inspired mango sauce. This sauce is quick to prepare and is perfectly spicy, brightly flavored, and versatile, as it’s just as delicious when paired with swordfish, salmon, tuna, or other fish and grilled meat.

For more delicious recipes and backyard grilling ideas, click here.

Five Must-Visit Botanical Gardens

The United States holds such interesting landscapes, foliage, and wildlife, but hidden away in bustling cities, lake regions, and dry deserts are botanical gardens begging to be visited. For those in tune and in love with mother nature,look no further than Scenic States’s recommendations of must-visit US Botanical gardens. Here are just five of the most historic, iconic, and picturesque botanical escapes.

Brooklyn Botanic Garden

“A 52-acre horticultural gaven located in the heart of Brooklyn, New York. This is a favorite among locals and tourists alike, being home to over 14,000 groups of plants. When planning a tip, try and schedule the unforgettable Cherry Blossom festival, as the falling petals are truly a sight to behold, though the garden is impressive with each of the changing seasons. “Aside from the Cherry Blossoms that receive over a million visitors each year, make sure to check out the Steinhardt Conservatory, Japanese hill and pond garden, and Shakespeare garden.”

 Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden

“This 66-acre botanical garden is located along Garland Road in Dallas Texas. It’s optimal to visit this site in the spring to witness thousands of blossoming tulips during an annual event known as “Dallas Blooms.” If visiting in the summer, be sure to watch out for water displays and outdoor concerts. Anytime of year, though, be sure to check out the scenic, picturesque White Rock Lake. “This attraction is considered one of the best South Botanical Gardens.””

 Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden

“This 83-acre botanic garden is home to many, many rare tropical plants such as vines, cycads, and palms. In fact, be sure to see the 1,000- pam Montgomery Palmetum when visiting the garden in Coral Gables, Florida. It’s suggested that visitors stop by when the Night Garden and its light shot illuminated the Gairchild tropical gardens during November- January. “Probably one of the best botanical gardens in the US with such rich trees, lakes and gardens, the Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden was built to preserve the tropical plants and two-acre rainforest exhibition.”

United States Botanical Garden

“This is the oldest botanical garden in the United States, located in Washington D.C, directly across from the US Capitol. It’s been open to the public since 1850, housing over 65,000 plants. “This garden is small compared to some of the best botanical gardens in the US on this list, so expect to finish the tour within an hour or two. However, the garden still has must-see elements like the edible plant exhibit, rose and butterfly gardens, and a mix of tropical and desert environments, so your visit could extend over two hours.”

 Missouri Botanical Gardens

“This 79-acre garden opened in 1859 in St. Louis, Missouri, and its home to thousands of trees and plants. Here you’ll find the biggest Japanese garden in the United States and an impressive futuristic-looking Climatron, which is a large geometric glass dome, housing a tropical rainforest. “Don’t miss the English Woodland Garden, which houses 100 dogwoods, 300 azaleas and rhododendrons, and other preserved plants.”

New Orleans Botanical Gardens

While one of our favorite spots did not make the list, we thought it was worth sharing anyway.  Only a short drive for most, it’s something most visitors and some Louisianans may not even know exists and is definitely worth a visit.  Located in the beautiful New Orleans City Park, the gardens offer plenty of room to explore and are currently offering brunch picnics on Sunday’s and dinner on Wednesdays.  It’s worth a visit from locals and tourists alike.  There is also plenty to explore while visiting the park, including a large sculpture garden with more beautiful scenery right across the street.

For more travel related news and information, click here.

University Of Louisiana at Lafayette Praised for Educational Opportunities

In a press release by The University of Louisiana at Lafayette, the school is praised for providing “programs that level the playing field for educational opportunities,” according to INSIGHT into Diversity, the largest diversity magazine and website in higher education.

 INSIGHT into Diversity assessed colleges and universities in the United States and Canada for their contributions in advancing diversity and inclusion across their campuses. In the publication’s “Courageous Conversations workshop series” in its May/June issue, The University of Louisiana at Lafayette’s “Learning is for Everyone,” or LIFE program was featured and praised.

The University of Louisiana at Lafayette’s LIFE program aims to give students with mild to moderate intellectual disabilities and academic foundation, work experience, and social opportunities as they enroll in classes designed specifically for them and audit regularly schedules classes with other University students, who help with assignments.

The publication’s workshop series, Courageous Conversations, focuses on increating diversity and including in the classroom, across campus, and in the community as faculty, staff members, and students father monthly to share experiences, ideas, and resources.

Dr. Taniecea Arceneaux Mallery, the University’s executive director of Strategic Initiatives and chief diversity officer stated, “Recognition for these two programs that are integral to the University’s diversity and inclusion efforts are indicative of a campus-wide commitment to providing equal access for underrepresented groups.”

In 2014,  The University of Louisiana at Lafayette became the state’s first four year institution to offer a postsecondary program for people with intellectual disabilities with the LIFE Program.

Students who are enrolled in the program have curriculums tailored to their interests and career goals. They learn life skills such as how to manage finances, and hold internships in campus offices or departments. They also participate in student organizations, clubs and extracurricular activities.

“The blend of academic, social and career development is designed to help LIFE students develop skills and confidence that will enable them to find meaningful jobs, and live independently,” Mallery said.

INSIGHT into Diversity’s acknowledgement of the Courageous Conversations series was centered on a recent virtual session where a group of panelists addressed a range of topics related to the COVID-19 pandemic such as physical and mental wellness, and challenges faced by minority students who lack access to technology.

“The idea of the webinar was to be intentional and think about certain experiences many of our students are having, because not everyone is experiencing this crisis in the same way or dealing with the same circumstances,” Mallery said.

This isn’t the first time University of Louisiana at Lafayette has earned praise from INSIGHT into Diversity magazine. Last year, the University was among 93 institutions that received the magazine’s Higher Education Excellence in Diversity Award. It also was recognized with the HEED award in 2018.

Mallery said the recognition is, in large part, the result of a Strategic Plan for Inclusive Excellence created by the University of Louisiana at Lafayette’s Office for Campus Diversity. It outlines a comprehensive plan for expanding initiatives and professional development resources that advance equity and inclusion.

“We want to continue to develop policies, resources and initiatives that engage all segments of campus and the community in the University’s ongoing mission to increase opportunities for underrepresented students,” Mallery said.

For more education related information, click here.

Easy Breakfast Recipes for Your Camping Trip

Maybe it’s the fresh air, or maybe it’s all the physical activity that often goes along with a camping trip like swimming, hiking, setting up tents, etc, but it’s undeniable that food just seems to taste better on a camping trip, and as Country Living points out, Breakfast food is at the top of the class. Make sure you’re starting the day off the right way, whether camping in the backyard, roughing it deep in the woods, or in your RV. From granola and breakfasts bars to pancakes, sandwiches, and skillet breakfasts, you never need worry about what you’re going to eat for breakfast while camping again! Be sure to also check out these easy campfire recipes before you head on your trip.

Make-Ahead Whole-Grain Pancake Mix

Pre-make and pack these dry and wet ingredients separately before embarking on your camping trip.  These will have you scarfing down the hearty, practically-perfect pancakes whenever you need them.

Grab-and-Go Cranberry Granola Bars

Crunchy homemade granola bars are one of the easiest ways to ensure that you and your loved ones have a hearty breakfast, whether or not you remembered to pack the camping stove.

Toasted Many-Seed Granola

In need of protein and flavor during your camping trip? You can’t go wrong with this seed-packed recipe, and for an extra treat, pack a thick yogurt and poached rhubarb to make this granola into an unforgettable dish.

Pear and Orange Muffins

Pack this treat and be pleasantly surprised when you remember these muffins which are full of sweet fruit and healthy grains, sure to give you plenty of energy throughout the day, no matter the plans.

Honey Nut Cheerio Turnovers

If you’re more into a dessert-breakfast mood, then look no further than packing this sweet, Pop-Tart alternative into your trip bag.

Cheddar, Bacon, and Chive Quick Bread

If you find yourself with enough time to plan ahead the night before, and if you’re a camper, that’s likely, then wrap up this savory breakfast treat that’s served best cold or roasted on a fire during your next camping trip.

Easy Make-Ahead Parfaits

These colorful fruit-filled parfaits aren’t just a treat to look at, but pull one of these mason jars out from the cooler to enjoy sweet start to your day.

Peanut Butter and Jelly Muffins

Turn a kid-friendly classic into a tasty takeaway breakfast item that will have the entire family ready to take on the day.

Strawberry Cream Cheese Campfire Crepes

Crepes aren’t just for the tableside of a restaurant; they’re cooked just as easily over a campfire while camping and enjoyed fireside.

Hot Ham and Pineapple Campfire Sandwiches

Pack these savory, yet sweet sandwiches in tinfoil to make campsite cleaning a nonissue, but be sure to pack multiple, since you’ll be tempted into seconds.

Skillet Oreo Cinnamon Buns

Camping is such hard work that can often go unrewarded, so treat yourself with this sweet twist on cinnamon rolls that will have you smiling.

Campfire French Toast

A delicious breakfast staple for any camping trip can be yours outdoors just by combining a loaf of bread with egg whites, strawberries, and sugar.

For more delicious recipes, click here.

Thousands Help Community Grocery

Burnell’s Market is a community grocery store located in New Orleans’ Lower 9th Ward; in fact it’s the 9th Ward’s only grocery store, and as told in a profile in The Louisiana Weekly, thousands have donated over $350,000 for its owner’s hardships.

The market’s owner, Burnell Colton, had told his story of his neighborhood’s struggles due to the COVID-19 pandemic on NPR, which inspired James Carder from Colorado, who had never lived in New Orleans, to set up a GoFundMe fundraiser so that he could donate to Colton. Word spread quickly among friends, communities, and media outlets such as the Washington Post, allowing hundreds of thousands of dollars to be donated to this small community grocery store.

When asked about the reason for his donation, Carder stated, “what touched me was he made this place (Burnell’s Market) a focal point for his community. I think his story touched the soul of America. We want to help in times of trouble.”

In 2014, Colton spent his life savings to open Burnell’s Market, a local community grocery store, where it’s stood as a neighborhood oasis. Colton, a U.S. Army veteran understands the struggles of his neighbordhood’s residents, many of whom have been economically struck by the national pandemic. Making it easier for his community, the owner now lets customers buy necessities on credit and even gives away food for those in need.

“Before I opened, this part of the city was a food desert. The easiest way to get fresh produce was to take three buses to the Walmart in Chalmette,” Cotlon told The Washington Post. “I’m running out of some things now because it’s getting so tight. I’m low on rice and sugar, but I hustle to fill this store. I say to my customers, ‘Tell me what you want and I’ll stock it’.”

In another interview with PBS News Hour, Colton elaborated on his outpour of love and duty for his neighborhood. He described a scene of him hugging a grandmother who was brought to tears when her credit card was declined as she was purchasing food for her grandchildren. Colton simply record her amount owed and send her on her way with the groceries, no questions asked.

“This is my community…I can’t turn them down because there’s nowhere else for them to go,” Cotlon said. “I found my purpose and my purpose is service.”

Obviously this positive, supportive message struck a chord with Americans nationwide, as over 4,000 people have donated to the cause and shared the GoFundMe page on social media. SCrolling through the page, many positive, supportive messages from donors can be found.

One suporter, Claudia Santino wrote, Mr. Burnell is a living example of how this country and world will be a better place if we just cared a little more for one another.”

Another, Jerry Wilkes wrote, “Burnell’s selfless devotion to his community, his bravery in taking on this daunting task, and his never back down attitude made me proud to be an American – something I haven’t felt very often since 2016.”

 For more Louisiana related articles, click here.

Enjoy Gulf Shores and Orange Beach

Down along the Gulf Coast is a 32 mile stretch of white, sugary sand that attracts locals and tourists alike for fun in and out of the sun. In an article posted by Southern Living, Alabama’s Gulf Shores and Orange Beach get a long-deserved profile to highlight the sights, seafood, and sounds that the south’s best kept secret has to offer.

Once along that Alabama shoreline, there are plenty of outdoor riches to explore, such as the picturesque beachfront, bountiful bayours, winding rivers, and luxurious lakes. Interested in paddling? The new Coastal Alabama Back Bay Blueway offers at least four different trails for paddling so that you can take in the scenery at your own, measured pace.

Apart from the waters, visitors can delight in exploring the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge, the name of which comes from the French words meaning “safe harbor,” very appropriate considering the sanctuary for native flora and fauna found within.

Travel closer inland, and visitors can take in 28 miles of paved nature trails within Gulf State Park, where there’s something for every member of the family to enjoy. The beach pavilion provides picnic tables as an escape from the beach, the nature center is a great place for the kids to learn, the swimming pool provides refreshment for guests and the Lake Shelby day use area offers kayaking and canoeing. For a change of pace while visiting check out the fishing and education pier, miles of biking on the Backcountry trail, beautiful flowers in the butterfly garden, and additional education at the  learning campus, interpretive center in the near future.

Want more exotic sights, visit the new 25 acre Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, a non-profit zoological park that is far and away from a little community zoo; it’s home to over 199 species, 31 subspecies, and haven to 8 endangered species.

On the cuisine side of its summer offerings, it’s hard to imagine the Orange Beach and Gulf Shores coast without its synonymous dining establishments. Back in the 1970’s, Alabama’s Gulf Coast offered little else beyond its campgrounds and the occasional ma-and-pop motel, with its now-famous dining scene practically nonexistent. Since Hurricane Fredric struck in 1979, the coast rebuilt, developed, and accelerated, and now there’s every kind of lodging and restaurant a  family can fathom. Alternatively, the Hangout Music Festival and attractions like The Wharf are drawing a new generation down south annually.

Once hungry, it’s easy to spot the locals and follow these repeat visitors to enjoy breakfast at places like Ruby Slipper Cafe, Brick & Spoon, and Duck’s Diner. The same crowd will likely recommend lunching at decades-old Sea-N-Suds, located right on the beach, Doc’s Seafood Shack & Oyster Bar, Tacky Jacks, Mikee’s Seafood, Original Oyster House, The Gulf, or Lucy Buffett’s Lulu’s. For dinner? Don’t miss Cobalt, The Restaurant or Fisher’s at Orange Beach Marinafor stunning views of the water and you plan your return next summer.

For more travel related news and information, click here.