Author: John Dough

  • Teriyaki Salmon Zoodle Bowl

    Teriyaki Salmon Zoodle Bowl

    If you’re looking for a meal that is both nutritious and full of flavor, our Teriyaki Salmon Zoodle Bowl is the perfect dish to whip up in no time. With zucchini noodles as a low-carb alternative to pasta, and the rich, umami flavor of teriyaki glazed salmon, this recipe not only caters to health-conscious individuals but also to anyone who loves a burst of Asian flavors in their meal.

    Ingredients:

    • 2 medium-sized zucchinis
    • 2 (6 oz) salmon fillets
    • 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
    • Salt and pepper, to taste
    • 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
    • 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
    • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
    • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
    • 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
    • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
    • 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
    • 1 carrot, julienned or spiralized
    • 1/4 cup edamame, shelled and cooked

    Instructions:

    1. Start by preparing the zucchini noodles (zoodles) using a spiralizer or a julienne peeler. Set aside on paper towels to absorb any excess moisture.
    2. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper. In a pan over medium-high heat, warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the salmon fillets skin-side down and cook for about 4-6 minutes or until the skin is crispy. Flip the salmon and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
    3. In a small bowl, mix together the teriyaki sauce, honey if desired, grated ginger, and minced garlic. Brush this mixture over the cooked salmon fillets and allow to glaze over the heat for another minute. Remove the salmon from the pan and set aside.
    4. Using the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil along with the sesame oil. Sauté the red bell pepper and carrot until slightly softened.
    5. Add in the zoodles and edamame, and toss for about 2 minutes or until the zoodles are heated through but still firm.
    6. Divide the zoodle mixture between two bowls. Top with the teriyaki glazed salmon fillets, sprinkle with sesame seeds, and garnish with green onions.

    This Teriyaki Salmon Zoodle Bowl is not only a feast for your taste buds but also for your eyes, with the vibrant colors of the vegetables and the rich glaze on the salmon. It’s an excellent choice for anyone looking for a meal that is satisfying yet health-conscious.

    Nutrition Information:

    Per serving: Calories: 540; Total Fat: 28g; Saturated Fat: 4g; Cholesterol: 95mg; Sodium: 780mg; Total Carbohydrates: 23g; Dietary Fiber: 4g; Sugars: 12g; Protein: 46g.

  • Chicken Fajita Zoodle Bowl

    Chicken Fajita Zoodle Bowl

    Get ready to embrace the bold flavors and healthy twist on a classic dish! This Chicken Fajita Zoodle Bowl is perfect for those looking for a lighter alternative to traditional fajitas. By substituting zucchini noodles (zoodles) for regular tortillas, you’ll enjoy a low-carb meal packed with vegetables and lean protein. Let’s get started!

    Ingredients:

    • 2 medium zucchinis, spiralized into noodles
    • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
    • 1 tbsp olive oil
    • 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
    • 1 medium onion, sliced
    • 1 tsp chili powder
    • 1 tsp ground cumin
    • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
    • 1/2 tsp paprika
    • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
    • Salt and pepper to taste
    • Fresh cilantro, for garnish
    • Lime wedges, for serving
    • Your choice of toppings (avocado, sour cream, cheese, salsa)

    Instructions:

    1. In a small bowl, mix together chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle half of the spice mixture over the sliced chicken.
    2. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken slices and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
    3. In the same pan, add a little more oil if necessary, and sauté the bell peppers and onion until tender and slightly charred, around 5 minutes.
    4. Return the chicken to the pan with the vegetables and sprinkle the remaining spice mixture. Toss everything together and cook for another 2 minutes.
    5. Meanwhile, prepare the zucchini noodles by cooking them in a separate pan for about 1-2 minutes, just until heated through but still crisp-tender. You can also serve them raw if you prefer a crunchier texture.
    6. Divide the zoodles between bowls and top with the chicken fajita mixture. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges and your choice of toppings.

    Nutritional Information:

    This Chicken Fajita Zoodle Bowl is not only delicious but also nutritious. Zucchini noodles offer a low-carb alternative to grains and are high in vitamins A and C, as well as fiber. Combined with lean chicken and colorful bell peppers, this meal is a nutritional powerhouse that’s satisfying and guilt-free.

    Optional Variations:

    For those wanting to mix things up, feel free to add other vegetables such as mushrooms or spinach. To make this dish vegetarian, substitute the chicken with tofu or portobello mushrooms and adjust the cooking time as necessary.

    With flavors that pop and a recipe that keeps you coming back for more, this Chicken Fajita Zoodle Bowl is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Enjoy your homemade, healthful spin on a Tex-Mex favorite!

  • Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Chicken

    Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Chicken

    If you’re looking for a meal that’s both delicious and healthy, you can’t go wrong with Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Chicken. It’s a dish that’s packed with flavor, protein, and nutrients, making it a perfect choice for a satisfying weeknight dinner. Follow this easy recipe to create a meal that’s sure to impress your family and friends!

    Ingredients:

    • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
    • 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
    • Salt and pepper, to taste
    • 1 tablespoon of olive oil
    • 1 cup of chopped spinach
    • 1/2 cup of canned artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
    • 1/2 cup of cream cheese, softened
    • 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
    • 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional)
    • 1/2 teaspoon of dried Italian herbs

    Instructions:

    1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius).
    2. Using a sharp knife, cut a pocket into the side of each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through.
    3. Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
    4. In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped spinach, artichoke hearts, cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes (if using), and dried Italian herbs.
    5. Stuff each chicken breast pocket with the spinach and artichoke mixture, and secure them with toothpicks if necessary.
    6. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they develop a golden crust.
    7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake the chicken for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius).
    8. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to distribute evenly throughout the meat.

    Serving Suggestions:

    Serve your Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Chicken with a side of roasted vegetables, a fresh garden salad, or over a bed of fluffy quinoa for a complete and balanced meal. Enjoy the creamy and savory flavors that this dish has to offer!

    Nutritional Information:

    Approximate per serving (1 stuffed chicken breast): Calories: 320, Fat: 16g, Saturated Fat: 7g, Cholesterol: 100mg, Sodium: 500mg, Carbohydrates: 5g, Fiber: 1g, Sugar: 1g, Protein: 38g.

  • Delicious Homemade Chicken Parmesan Sub

    Ingredients:

    • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded to 1/2 inch thickness
    • Salt and black pepper to taste
    • 1 cup all-purpose flour
    • 2 large eggs, beaten
    • 1 cup breadcrumbs
    • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
    • 1 cup marinara sauce
    • 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
    • 2 tablespoons olive oil
    • 4 sub rolls, split and toasted
    • Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

    Instructions:

    1. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Set aside.
    2. Place flour in a shallow dish. In a second dish, whisk the beaten eggs. In a third dish, mix breadcrumbs with half a cup of Parmesan cheese.
    3. Dip each chicken breast first in flour, shaking off the excess. Next, dip into the egg mixture, then dredge in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing to coat.
    4. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side. Transfer to a paper towel lined plate to drain.
    5. Preheat the broiler on high. Place the cooked chicken breasts onto a baking sheet.
    6. Spoon marinara sauce over each piece of chicken. Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese and the remaining Parmesan cheese.
    7. Broil in the oven until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, about 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
    8. Place each chicken breast on a toasted sub roll. If desired, garnish with fresh basil leaves.
    9. Serve hot and enjoy your homemade Chicken Parmesan Sub!

    Cook’s Tips:

    For a crispier chicken crust, you can double bread the chicken by repeating the egg and breadcrumb coating steps. Also, ensure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken to get that perfect golden color. Lastly, use high-quality marinara sauce and fresh mozzarella for the best flavor experience.

    There you have it—a simple yet satisfying Chicken Parmesan Sub that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Perfect for a weekend lunch or a weeknight dinner, this sandwich is a delightful twist on classic chicken parmesan. Buon appetito!

  • Classic Homemade Guacamole

    Classic Homemade Guacamole

    Guacamole is a staple of Mexican cuisine that has gained international fame for its creamy texture, fresh taste, and versatility. Whether you’re gearing up for a taco night, hosting a party, or just craving a healthy snack, this classic homemade guacamole recipe is the perfect addition to your culinary repertoire. In just a few simple steps, you can enjoy the freshest and most flavorful guacamole you’ve ever tasted.

    Ingredients:

    • 3 ripe avocados, peeled, pitted, and mashed
    • 1 lime, juiced
    • 1 teaspoon salt
    • 1/2 cup diced onion
    • 3 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
    • 2 diced roma tomatoes
    • 1 teaspoon minced garlic
    • 1 pinch of ground cayenne pepper (optional)

    Instructions:

    1. In a medium bowl, mash together the avocados, lime juice, and salt using a fork or potato masher until you reach your desired consistency.
    2. Mix in the onion, cilantro, tomatoes, and garlic, stirring well to combine evenly.
    3. Add the cayenne pepper if you prefer an extra kick to your guacamole.
    4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap placed directly on the surface of the guacamole to prevent oxidation and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.

    Tips for the Best Guacamole:

    • Choose the right avocados. Look for avocados that are ripe and slightly soft to the touch. Avoid avocados that have dark blemishes or are overly mushy.
    • Always use fresh lime juice as it significantly enhances the flavor and helps prevent the avocados from browning quickly.
    • Customize your guacamole by adding other ingredients, such as diced jalapeños, corn, or black beans, to suit your taste.
    • Serve with tortilla chips, on toast, with tacos, or as a topping for burgers and sandwiches.

    Nutritional Information:

    A typical serving of homemade guacamole contains healthy fats from avocados, fiber, vitamin C, potassium, and other essential nutrients. It is naturally gluten-free, vegan, and can be a part of a healthy diet.

    Now go ahead and take the plunge—create this easy, delicious, and healthy guacamole to impress your guests or simply treat yourself!

  • Chicken Fajita Zoodle Stir-Fry

    Chicken Fajita Zoodle Stir-Fry

    Are you looking for a tasty way to keep your meals healthy and satisfying? This Chicken Fajita Zoodle Stir-Fry combines the zesty flavors of classic fajitas with the nutritional benefits of zucchini noodles, making it a perfect meal for anyone looking to reduce carbs without sacrificing taste.

    Ingredients:

    • 2 medium zucchini, spiralized into noodles
    • 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
    • 1 pound chicken breast, thinly sliced
    • 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
    • 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
    • 1 onion, thinly sliced
    • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 teaspoon chili powder
    • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
    • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
    • salt and pepper, to taste
    • 1 lime, juiced
    • Fresh cilantro, for garnish

    Directions:

    1. Using a spiralizer, turn the zucchini into noodles (zoodles) and set aside.
    2. Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken slices and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.
    3. In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the onion and bell peppers until they begin to soften, about 3-4 minutes.
    4. Add the garlic, chili powder, smoked paprika, and cumin to the pan and stir to combine, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant.
    5. Add the zoodles to the pan, tossing with the spice mixture and vegetables. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the zoodles are tender but still firm.
    6. Return the chicken to the pan and squeeze the lime juice over the stir-fry. Toss everything to combine and heat through.
    7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
    8. Remove from heat and serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

    Tips and Variations:

    • To make it even healthier, use an extra zucchini and skip the chicken to make it vegetarian-friendly.
    • Add a splash of soy sauce or tamari for an umami flavor boost.
    • Top with sliced avocado or a dollop of Greek yogurt for added creaminess.
    • If you don’t have a spiralizer, you can use a julienne peeler or purchase pre-made zucchini noodles from your local grocery store.

    This Chicken Fajita Zoodle Stir-Fry is not only delicious and simple to make but also aligns perfectly with a healthy lifestyle. Enjoy the familiar fajita flavors in a novel and nourishing way!

  • Classic Sausage and Peppers Recipe

    Classic Sausage and Peppers Recipe

    Nothing says comfort food quite like the classic combination of savory sausage and sweet, yet slightly charred peppers. Perfect as a standalone dish or as a tasty sandwich filling, this recipe is sure to please your palate. With a prep time that’s as minimal as its ingredient list, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time. Let’s dive into this traditional, home-cooked favorite.

    Ingredients:

    • 1 pound Italian sausages (sweet or spicy)
    • 2 bell peppers, sliced (choose a mix of colors for variety)
    • 1 large onion, sliced
    • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    • 2 tablespoons olive oil
    • Salt and pepper to taste
    • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
    • 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable stock (optional)
    • Your favorite bread or hoagie rolls (if making sandwiches)

    Instructions:

    1. Preheat a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and sausages to the pan, browning them evenly on all sides. Once browned, remove the sausages from the pan and set aside.
    2. In the same pan, add the sliced peppers and onion, seasoning them with salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Cook over medium heat until they are soft and slightly caramelized, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
    3. Add the minced garlic to the mixture and cook for another minute until fragrant.
    4. If using the stock, pour it into the pan now to deglaze, scraping up the flavorful bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes to reduce slightly.
    5. Reduce heat to low and return the sausages to the pan. Cover and let everything simmer together for about 10 minutes. If you prefer a crispier sausage, skip covering the pan.
    6. Once the sausages are cooked through and the vegetables have softened to your liking, remove from heat.
    7. If making sandwiches, slice the sausages if desired and load them along with the peppers and onions into the bread or rolls.
    8. Serve hot as is or with your choice of sides, like a simple salad or roasted potatoes.

    This sausage and peppers recipe can be easily adapted to accommodate personal preferences or dietary restrictions. Use gluten-free bread for a celiac-friendly version, or veggie sausages if you’re catering to vegetarians. It’s a versatile dish that’s just as ideal for a weeknight dinner as it is for entertaining friends and family on weekends.

    Enjoy the hearty flavors and let this meal bring a touch of rustic, homestyle cooking to your table.

    Tips:

    • For added flavor, consider using a mix of sweet and spicy sausages.
    • If you like a bit of tang, splash some balsamic vinegar over the peppers and onions as they cook.
    • Leftovers can make a delicious next-day omelet filling.
  • Avocado and Black Bean Quesadilla

    Looking for a quick and tasty meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious? Quesadillas are a fantastic option that can be filled with a variety of ingredients, catering to vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. This recipe for avocado and black bean quesadillas is a crowd-pleaser, packed with the creamy goodness of avocado and the protein-rich punch of black beans, spiced to perfection.

    Ingredients

    • 2 large flour tortillas
    • 1 ripe avocado, pitted and mashed
    • 1/2 cup black beans, cooked and drained
    • 1/2 cup shredded cheese of your choice (cheddar, Monterey Jack, etc.)
    • 1/4 cup diced tomatoes
    • 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
    • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
    • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
    • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
    • Salt and pepper to taste
    • 1 tablespoon olive oil

    Instructions

    1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add olive oil, swirling to coat the bottom.
    2. In a bowl, combine mashed avocado, black beans, diced tomatoes, chopped red onion, cilantro, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to evenly distribute the spices.
    3. Lay a tortilla flat and spread half of the avocado-bean mixture over one half of the tortilla. Sprinkle with cheese, then fold the tortilla over the filling, creating a half-moon shape.
    4. Place the tortilla in the hot skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the quesadilla is golden brown and the cheese has melted. Repeat with the second tortilla and remaining filling.
    5. Transfer the cooked quesadillas to a cutting board and let them cool for a minute before cutting into wedges.
    6. Serve warm, with your favorite salsa, sour cream, or guacamole on the side for dipping.

    Tips & Variations

    • Add protein: For a non-vegetarian version, include cooked, diced chicken or beef.
    • Go vegan: Use dairy-free cheese and a touch of lime juice in the avocado mix to keep this dish vegan.
    • Spice it up: Include jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce in the mixture for an extra kick.
    • Serve with sides: Pair these quesadillas with a side of rice, corn salad, or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.

    Nutrition Information

    Each serving typically contains vitamins and minerals from the avocado, dietary fiber, and protein from the black beans, along with calcium from the cheese. Adjusting the cheese and using whole-grain tortillas can also increase the nutritional value.

  • Classic Caesar Wrap

    Classic Caesar Wrap

    If you love the classic flavors of a Caesar salad and want a portable and easy-to-make version, this Caesar Wrap recipe is just what you need. It retains all the deliciousness of the salad but comes in a handy wrap form, making it ideal for a quick lunch on the go, an outdoor picnic, or a simple dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Let’s get wrapping!

    Ingredients:

    • 2 large flour tortillas
    • 2 cups of romaine lettuce, chopped
    • 1/2 cup of cooked chicken breast, sliced or shredded
    • 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese, shaved or grated
    • 2 tablespoons of Caesar dressing
    • 1/4 cup of croutons, crushed
    • Salt and pepper to taste
    • Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)

    Instructions:

    1. Lay out the flour tortillas on a flat surface.
    2. Spread 1 tablespoon of Caesar dressing on each tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.
    3. Divide the chopped romaine lettuce between the two tortillas, placing it on top of the dressing.
    4. Add the cooked chicken breast on top of the lettuce.
    5. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the chicken and lettuce.
    6. Add the crushed croutons for an added crunch.
    7. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
    8. Carefully fold in the sides of the tortilla over the filling, then roll it up tightly from the bottom to enclose the filling. Cut in half diagonally, if desired.
    9. Serve immediately with a lemon wedge on the side for an extra zing if you like.

    Note: To make it healthier, opt for a whole wheat tortilla and a light Caesar dressing. You can also add more greens or other vegetables such as sliced cucumbers or bell peppers for additional nutrients and crunch.

    Additional Tips:

    • For a vegetarian option, skip the chicken and add more vegetables or tofu.
    • Prepare wraps in advance and store them in the fridge, wrapped in foil or plastic wrap for a convenient grab-and-go meal option.
    • For a hot wrap, after rolling, grill the wrap in a panini press or on a skillet until the tortilla is crisp and the inside is warm.

    This Caesar Wrap is a tasty and flexible recipe that can accommodate whatever you have on hand or suit your dietary preferences while providing the comforting flavors of a classic Caesar salad with the convenience of a wrap.

  • Chicken Fajita Pizza: A Fusion of Italian and Mexican Cuisine

    Ingredients:

    • 1 prebaked pizza crust (12-inch)
    • 1 tablespoon olive oil
    • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
    • 1 tablespoon fajita seasoning
    • 1/2 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
    • 1/2 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
    • 1/2 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
    • 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
    • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
    • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
    • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
    • Sour cream for serving (optional)

    Instructions:

    1. Preheat your oven according to the pizza crust package instructions, typically around 450°F (232°C). If you need a pizza stone review this page.
    2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken slices and sprinkle with fajita seasoning, cooking until no longer pink and slightly browned.
    3. Add the sliced bell peppers and onion to the skillet with the seasoned chicken. Sauté until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.
    4. Place the prebaked pizza crust on a pizza pan or baking sheet. Distribute the cooked chicken and vegetables evenly over the crust.
    5. Sprinkle both the mozzarella and cheddar cheese over the top of the chicken and vegetable mixture.
    6. Bake in the preheated oven for about 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the crust is golden brown.
    7. Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a couple of minutes.
    8. Optional: Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and serve with a dollop of sour cream on the side.
    9. Slice the pizza and serve immediately while it’s still hot.

    Cooking Tips:

    • To add an extra kick to your pizza, you can include sliced jalapeños or drizzle with hot sauce before serving.
    • If you have time, you can make your own pizza dough from scratch for an even fresher taste.
    • For a healthier version, use whole wheat pizza crust and low-fat cheese varieties.

    Conclusion:

    This Chicken Fajita Pizza is the perfect dish for those who love the heartiness of pizza and the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine. It’s easy to make, customizable to your taste preferences, and sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy this tasty fusion for your next dinner or casual gathering!