Tag: Summer Cooking

Smoky Shrimp-and-Sausage Skewers for Your BBQ

Imagine transforming your backyard into a bustling Louisiana bayou with the tantalizing aroma of smoky andouille sausage and succulent shrimp wafting through the air. Grilled Shrimp-and-Sausage Skewers are a simple yet flavorful way to bring a slice of the South to your summer cookouts. This dish, courtesy of Louisiana Cookin, combines the robust flavors of andouille sausage with the delicate sweetness of shrimp, all complemented by the savory kick of Creole seasoning. Perfect for a casual family gathering or a festive outdoor party, these skewers are sure to impress.

Ingredients:

Directions:

  1. Begin by threading the andouille sausage, shrimp, and onion onto your chosen skewers. If you are using wooden skewers, it is crucial to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill.
  2. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, Creole seasoning, and chopped parsley. This mixture will infuse the shrimp and onions with a burst of flavor. Brush the seasoned oil generously onto the skewers, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
  3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, aiming for a temperature range between 350°F to 400°F. This heat level is ideal for cooking the skewers to perfection, ensuring the sausage browns nicely and the onions become tender.
  4. Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Cook them for about 7 to 10 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking. You’ll know they’re ready when the andouille is browned and slightly crisp, and the onions are tender with a hint of char. For an extra touch of freshness, garnish the skewers with a sprinkle of chopped parsley before serving.

Suggested Side Dishes

To complement the robust flavors of the Grilled Shrimp-and-Sausage Skewers, consider pairing them with a variety of delicious side dishes:

  • Cajun Rice Pilaf: This side dish, packed with spices and vegetables, echoes the vibrant flavors of the skewers and adds a hearty component to the meal.
  • Grilled Corn on the Cob: Brushed with butter and sprinkled with a bit of Creole seasoning, grilled corn is a perfect match for the skewers, offering a sweet and smoky contrast.
  • Classic Coleslaw: The creamy, tangy flavors of coleslaw provide a refreshing balance to the rich, spicy notes of the andouille sausage and shrimp.
  • Garlic Bread: Toasted to perfection and lightly brushed with garlic butter, this side is great for soaking up any juices from the skewers.
  • Red Beans and Rice: A traditional Southern dish that complements the skewers well, adding depth and additional layers of flavor to the meal.

Grilled Shrimp-and-Sausage Skewers are a delightful addition to any grilling repertoire. Not only do they bring a taste of Louisiana to your backyard, but they also offer a harmonious blend of spicy, savory, and fresh flavors. Whether you’re an experienced griller or a novice cook, this recipe is straightforward and quick, making it perfect for any summer gathering. Serve these skewers with a selection of complementary sides, and you’ll have a feast that’s sure to impress your family and friends. These skewers are not just a meal but an experience, capturing the vibrant culinary spirit of the Louisiana bayou. Embrace the ease and enjoyment of grilling these flavorful skewers, and watch as they become a favorite at all your future cookouts.

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Elevate Your Palate: Peach-and-Brie Flatbread Recipe

Elevate your culinary experience with a delightful dish that marries the sweetness of fresh peaches with the richness of Brie cheese, all atop a perfectly baked naan flatbread. This Peach-and-Brie Flatbread recipe from Louisiana Cookinis not only a feast for the senses but also a testament to the harmony of contrasting flavors. With a drizzle of spicy cane syrup to kick up the excitement, each bite promises an explosion of taste. Whether you’re planning a casual lunch, a sophisticated appetizer, or a unique dinner, these flatbreads are an excellent choice that will leave your guests craving for more.

Ingredients for Flatbread: 

Directions for preparing Flatbread: 

  1. Begin by heating the cane syrup in a microwave-safe bowl using 10-second intervals until it becomes pleasantly warm. To this, add the bold Creole seasoning, hot sauce, ½ teaspoon of crushed red pepper, and paprika. Mix these flavors together and let the mixture cool down completely.
  2. As your spicy cane syrup infusion cools, preheat your oven to a toasty 450°F. For an even bake, ensure you have a wire rack resting atop a rimmed baking sheet.
  3. Now, take your prepared wire rack and artfully lay out the naan flatbreads. On this canvas, let the star ingredients shine: layer the Brie cheese and delicate peach slices atop the naan. To awaken your taste buds, give them a gentle dusting with the remaining ¼ teaspoon of crushed red pepper. Finally, add a poetic drizzle of olive oil.
  4. Slide your masterpiece into the preheated oven, and let the magic unfold. In just 12 to 15 minutes, you’ll witness the cheese transform into a molten, golden masterpiece. It’s at this point that your kitchen will be filled with the aroma of anticipation.
  5. As the flatbreads emerge, the final touches transform them into culinary art. Drizzle the cooled spicy cane syrup mixture over the golden flatbreads, infusing them with a harmonious blend of flavors. A delicate sprinkle of flaked sea salt not only enhances the taste but also adds an elegant texture contrast. For a visual flourish, garnish the flatbreads with freshly chopped basil and a whisper of crushed red pepper.

Side Dish Suggestions:

Pair your Peach-and-Brie Flatbreads with some delightful side dishes to create a well-rounded meal. Consider serving a crisp arugula salad with a light lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness of the flatbreads. Roasted garlic hummus with fresh vegetables and pita chips would also make for a fantastic side that complements the flavors and adds a touch of Mediterranean flair. You could additionally enhance your meal’s earthy flavors with a medley of herbed roasted vegetables. Roast carrots, bell peppers, zucchini, and red onions with a sprinkle of your favorite herbs, and let their natural sweetness shine through. Lastly, add a touch of indulgence with sweet potato fries as a side. These crispy delights, seasoned with a hint of smoky paprika and served with a creamy dipping sauce, create a delightful contrast to the soft flatbreads.

Indulge in the art of culinary creativity with these Peach-and-Brie Flatbreads. The harmonious blend of fresh peaches, creamy Brie cheese, and zesty Creole seasoning will captivate your taste buds in every bite. The zing of spicy cane syrup adds an unexpected twist, elevating the dish to a new level of flavor. Whether shared as an appetizer or enjoyed as a main course, these flatbreads are bound to become a cherished favorite in your recipe repertoire.

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Recipe for Toasted Tomato-Paneer Sandwiches

Craving a delicious yet easy-to-make sandwich for lunch? Look no further than this toasted tomato-paneer sandwich recipe from Epicurious. With its unique blend of spices and the creamy texture of paneer cheese, this sandwich is sure to satisfy your taste buds. When it comes to toasted sandwiches, there are few things more delicious than a classic tomato-paneer sandwich. Paneer is a type of cheese that is firm and easy to slice, making it the perfect addition to any sandwich while leaving a smoky taste.

Ingredients for Toasted Tomato-Paneer Sandwiches

  • 12 slices of your preferred bread
  • 2 (6-oz.) packages of paneer
  • 1½ cups of coarsely-grated sharp cheddar or low-moisture mozzarella
  • 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter
  • 1 (15-oz.) can of crushed tomatoes
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 1 small red onion, finely chopped
  • 6 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
  • 1 (1″) piece of peeled ginger, finely chopped
  • ½ a jalapeño with the seeds removed, finely chopped
  • ½ cup of chopped cilantro
  • 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds
  • ½ teaspoon of mustard seeds
  • 2 teaspoons of ground coriander
  • ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper
  • ½ teaspoon of ground turmeric
  • 2 teaspoons of Diamond Crystal or 1¼ teaspoons of Morton kosher salt
  • 3 Tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil
  • Ketchup (for serving)

Directions for Toasted Tomato-Paneer Sandwiches

  1. In order to start this wonderful recipe for a delicious toasted sandwich, you’ll want to begin by heating your extra-virgin olive oil in a large Dutch oven or another heavy pot over medium heat. Once the oil is spread throughout the bottom of the pot and properly heated, you’ll cook your paneer cheese in a single layer, undisturbed, until it’s golden brown underneath. This should take approximately 2 minutes. Then, you’ll transfer this to a medium bowl, allow the paneer to cool slightly, and then crumble the paneer cheese into bite-size pieces. Set this aside for later.
  2. Next, add your jalapeño, onion, garlic, cumin seeds, peeled ginger, and mustard seeds to the same pot. Cook these ingredients over medium heat while stirring often, until the onion is softened and translucent, which should take about 5 minutes. At this point, add in your cayenne pepper, turmeric, and coriander into the pot and cook it until it’s fragrant while stirring occasionally. After about 3 minutes, stir in your tomatoes, salt, and 1 cup of water. Bring the pot to a simmer and then reduce the heat to low and stir in your reserved paneer from earlier. Cover the pot and cook the contents while stirring occasionally until the sauce is slightly thickened, which should take about 15-20 minutes.
  3. In order to start assembling your six sandwiches, you’ll spread a slice of bread with ½ cup of sauce, top it with some of the red onion, cheddar cheese, and cilantro, and close up the sandwich with another slice of bread. Because you’re assembling all six sandwiches in this step, you’ll want to use about ⅙ of each of your sandwich ingredients, so that they’re all assembled evenly. Repeat the process of this step for the remaining five sandwiches.
  4. Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a small nonstick skillet over medium heat for the toasting of the sandwiches. Place two sandwiches into your pan and press down on them occasionally with a spatula in order to ensure good contact with the pan, making the underside of the sandwiches golden brown and crisp, for about 3 minutes. After 3 minutes, turn your sandwiches over and cool for another 3 minutes until the other side is golden brown and the cheese is melted. Transfer your sandwiches to a plate and repeat the process two more times with your remaining butter and sandwiches.
  5. Slice the sandwiches in half and serve them alongside ketchup. Enjoy!

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Cajun-Brined Fried Chicken Recipe

If you’re looking for a delicious, easy-to-make recipe that’s guaranteed to get you in the summertime mood, then look no further than this impressive recipe for cajun-brined fried chicken from Louisiana Cookin’.

Fried chicken is a staple of American cooking, and it’s sound reasoning to expect that every  Cajun chef should have a recipe for a spicy fried chicken dinner in their back pocket. Now, while frying chicken might appear to be deceptively easy to make, it can also be extremely easy to screw up, as using the wrong brine can leave your fried chicken found wanting.

Luckily, this recipe’s reliance on cajun-brining your chicken for at least 8 hours but preferably overnight is a sure-fire way to assure that your fried chicken dinner is delicious, delectable, and always on the menu.

Ingredients

  • 1 gallon of tap water
  • 1¼ cups of kosher salt, divided
  • 1⅓ cups of Cajun seasoning, divided
  • 2 3-4 pound chickens, each cut into 8 pieces
  • 12 cups of all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons of fresh ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon of cayenne pepper
  • 2 quarts of whole buttermilk
  • ½ cup of hot sauce
  • 1 gallon of peanut oil

Directions

  1. You’ll want to begin this recipe by brining your chicken in a large nonreactive container. To begin brining chicken, combine 1 cup salt, 1 cup Cajun seasoning, and 1 gallon of water. Stir the contents of the container until your salt dissolves and then add your 8 pieces of your 3-4 pound chickens to the water mixture. Cover it, and refrigerate your container for a minimum of 8 hours, but it’s usually best to leave it brining overnight.
  2. The next step is to preheat your oven to 350°F. Take a broiler pan and spray it with nonstick cooking spray and then place this rack in a pan. Set this aside for later.
  3. Then, you’ll begin whisking your remaining ingredients in a large bowl. Whisk together your remaining 1/4 cup of salt and 1/3 cup of Cajun seasoning with your black pepper, flour, and cayenne pepper. Then, In another large bowl, combine your buttermilk and hot sauce.
  4. When ready to dredge and begin cooking, remove your chicken from the brine and pat it dry. Then, using one of your 8 chicken pieces at a time, dredge your chicken in the flour mixture while shaking off any excess flour, dip the floured piece into the buttermilk mixture, allowing for the excess to drip off into the pan, and then dredge it in the flour mixture once more. Shake off any excess, and place the pieces onto your prepared pan.
  5. Once finished dredging your 8 pieces, take a large Dutch oven and heat a gallon of peanut oil over medium-high heat until either a candy thermometer or a deep-fry thermometer reads a temperature of 350 °F.
  6. Cook the chicken in batches, turning it occasionally, until each piece is golden brown on all sides. This takes about 5 to 8 minutes in total. Throughout the frying process, you might need to adjust the Dutch oven’s heat as necessary to maintain 350 °F.
  7. After frying each piece of chicken, place it onto your prepared pan. Then, bake all pieces for about 10-12 minutes, just until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest portion of the pieces reads at a temperature of 165 °F.

Consider serving your Cajun-Brined Fried Chicken with some delicious Apple Slaw and creamy Four-Potato Salad.These dishes will make for the perfect accompaniments, as all three feature flavorful new takes on basic, but reliable recipes.

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Ideal 2021 Summer Barbecue Menu

The ideal weather conditions found in the summertime often bring along a tendency to attend or host social outings involving the great culinary staple that is the summer barbecue. Whether you find yourself hosting your own backyard BBQ buffet or simply bringing a dish to your local block party, these recipes from Olive Magazine for easy-to-make BBQ dishes are sure to put you at ease this summer.

Preparing the Grill

Before getting into specific recipes for main, side, and dessert dishes, Olive’s article begins with a refresher course on how to best cook your BBQ meats atop the versatile cooking instrument that is a gas or charcoal-based barbecue grill.

  1. Begin preparing your grill early by lighting the coals early (use the contents of a charcoal bag 1/3rd at a time) or getting your gas grill’s temperature up before rushing to get the seasoned meats atop a premature grill. Preparing the barbecue is a game of patience and restraint, as it’s integral to the grilling process to always have your meats heated by an even, unwavering temperature setting.
  2. While you’ll diversify the preparation of your BBQ meat products across your individual recipes, it’s always a good idea to take an account of the cuts of your meats (particularly brisket), as you’ll want to keep any fat attached to your cuts. The fat portions contribute to the moisture of your meat throughout the grilling  process, and they can always be removed later.
  3. Lastly, you should “prepare your battle stations” by ensuring you have your supply of spatulas, grill scrapers, and meat thermometers handy near the grill. The internal temperature of cooked meat is something that should never be left up to guessing, so play it safe and check the temperature of your meats be they brisket, beef, pork, or chicken.

The following are several easy-to-prepare recipes that are sure to please the appetites of any BBQ you’re attending or hosting.

Entrees:

Spicy BBQ Chicken Kebabs w/ Grilled Pineapple

One recipe that’s “out-of-the-ordinary” when it comes to a BBQ menu is this spicy kebab that combines the flavor profiles of spicy, grilled chicken with grilled pineapple. Depending on your situation, these can be played on a serving platter and used as a knockout appetizer, or they can be placed alongside some noodles or rice to be a celebrated main dish. Seriously, the red chilies and hot smoked paprika make this grilled chicken incredibly flavorful and spicy, and once it’s skewered alongside the caramelized, grilled pineapple and topped with mint, you’ll be the talk of the grill.

Whole Chilli and Lemongrass Sea Bream

Try something new and forgo the chicken, beef, and pork that get all the attention and try out this tenderedbarbecue sea bream that packs a powerful punch. This recipe’s marinade has a lemongrass base that is accompanied by ginger, lime, fish sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, shallots, and red chilies; the combination of sweet and sour flavors in the marinade make for an excellently delicious flavor profile. Take a chance by grilling this fish from the Vietnam cooking tradition and truly impress the audience at your next barbecue.

Sides:

BBQ Corn on the Cob

This recipe slightly tweaks a barbecue classic in the best way with a specific combination of seasonings and a Korean gochujang sauce. Using only twenty total minutes of preparation and grilling time, you’ll prepare your sauce with a combination of mayonnaise, sour cream, feta cheese, lime, chili paste, smoked paprika, and coriander. Though the sauce is often the star of the show, feel free to separate it from your grilled corn or only dress half of the stalks with the sauce in order to give your guests choice in the matter.

Herb, Watermelon, and Rice Noodle Salad

This refreshing summer salad is the perfect “light” alternative to the heftiness of the summer BBQ, as it is centered around a delicious herbal medley. The salad itself combines the flavors of watermelon, mint, Thai basil, coriander, spring onions, and sesame seeds with the specific textures of both bean sprouts and rice vermicelli noodles for a truly pleasing summer side dish. The dressing, though simple, is also sure to please and not weigh down those who eat it like a BBQ brisket would, as it’s only made of rice wine vinegar, fish sauce, caster sugar, and bird’s-eye chili.

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Father’s Day Recipes To Wow Dad

It is summer, which means Father’s Day is approaching. What better way to thank dad than with a delicious home cooked meal. One that can fill his belly. Julie’s Eats and Treats has one of the best collections of over 40 recipes for Father’s Day. Here are two dad filling recipes; one for the oven and one for the grill.

Father’s Day Three Meat Pizza Ring

INGREDIENTS

  • ½ cup of chopped pepperoni
  • ½ cup of diced Canadian bacon
  • 1 pound of Italian Sausage
  • Two 8 ounce tubes of crescent rolls (refrigerated)
  • One 15 ounce can of pizza sauce, divided in half
  • One ½ cup of shredded pizza cheese
  • Two garlic cloves, crushed

INSTRUCTIONS

The oven will need to preheat to 375 degrees. Take a large skillet and place it on the stove on medium heat. Cook the garlic and the sausage until the sausage is fully cooked (no more pink). Once cooked, drain the grease out of the pan. Add ½ cup of pizza sauce, Canadian Bacon, 1 cup of pizza cheese, and pepperoni into the pan. This is what will be considered the filling in the ring.

Separate the crescent roll dough into the triangles and place them on a 14 inch ungreased pizza pan. Overlapping the wide ends with the points on the outside. There should be a 4 inch opening in the middle of the pan. Press down on the overlapping part of the dough to make sure it is sealed. You don’t want any of the filling falling out of the bottom.

Take the mixture from the pan and spoon it onto the wipe part of the dough. Take the points and fold them over to make the ring. Bake in the oven for 12-15 minutes. The cresent rolls should be golden brown. The remaining cheese can be used to sprinkle on the top. The extra pizza sauce should be served with the roll.

What dad wouldn’t feel appreciated on Father’s Day with a delicious twist on a classic favorite?

 Sriracha Chicken Bacon Ranch Skewers For Dad

INGREDIENTS

INSTRUCTIONS

Take the BBQ sauce, the bacon ranch dressing, Sriracha sauce, and chili powder and combine them together. Place the chicken strips in a resealable gallon bag, and pour the mixture in the bag. Make sure the mixture coats the chicken strips evenly. Let this sit in the refrigerator for two hours or more. This can be prepared in advance which will make it easier to just throw on the grill.

After the two hours, or when you are ready to cook the chicken, remove it from the bag and put the bacon strip on the chicken, at the top. Take a metal or wooden skewer and thread it through the chicken and bacon. Grill the skewers over medium heat for about 10 to 14 minutes, make sure they are covered. Once the chicken is no longer pink and fully cooked, remove it from the grill and serve. Make sure to flip the chicken while it is grilling so it cooks evenly.

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