Only One Recipe

Author: John Dough

  • Classic Chicken Caesar Salad Recipe

    Classic Chicken Caesar Salad Recipe

    There’s nothing quite like a classic Chicken Caesar Salad — it’s a simple yet deliciously satisfying dish that combines tender grilled chicken with the crisp freshness of romaine lettuce, all tossed with a creamy and tangy Caesar dressing. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe will guide you through each step for making this beloved salad at home.

    Ingredients:

    • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
    • Salt and freshly ground black pepper
    • 2 tablespoons olive oil
    • 1 large romaine lettuce heart, chopped
    • 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
    • 1 cup croutons
    • For the Caesar dressing:
    • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 teaspoon anchovy paste (optional)
    • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
    • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
    • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
    • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
    • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
    • Salt and pepper to taste
    • 2 tablespoons olive oil

    Instructions:

    1. Prepare the chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a grill pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side or until fully cooked through. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then slice it into thin strips.
    2. Make the Caesar dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the garlic, anchovy paste, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously until the dressing is well emulsified.
    3. Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce with half of the dressing, tossing to coat the leaves evenly. Add more dressing as needed, according to your preference. Sprinkle the shredded Parmesan cheese and croutons over the lettuce, and add the grilled chicken strips on top.
    4. Serve: Divide the salad into serving bowls, and drizzle with the remaining Caesar dressing if desired. Serve immediately, with extra Parmesan cheese and croutons on the side if you like.

    Note:

    If you prefer extra crunch, feel free to add more croutons or even some bacon bits. For a lighter version, you can substitute the mayonnaise in the dressing with Greek yogurt. Enjoy your perfectly balanced Chicken Caesar Salad!

  • Creamy Dreamy Mashed Potatoes

    Creamy Dreamy Mashed Potatoes

    Mashed potatoes are a classic comfort food that can be enjoyed as a delightful side dish to a multitude of main courses. Making the perfect mashed potatoes is an art, but with this easy-to-follow recipe, you can create a creamy and dreamy dish that’s sure to impress your guests or satisfy your family’s cravings.

    Ingredients:

    • 2 lbs of Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and quartered
    • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
    • 1/2 cup heavy cream
    • Salt to taste
    • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
    • Optional garnishes: chopped fresh chives, parsley, or additional butter

    Instructions:

    1. Begin by placing your peeled and quartered potatoes in a large pot. Cover them with cold water and add a pinch of salt. Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium and simmer until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
    2. While the potatoes are cooking, gently heat the butter and heavy cream in a small saucepan over low heat. You want the mixture to be warm when you add it to the potatoes.
    3. Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them well in a colander. Transfer them back to the pot or to a large mixing bowl. Mash the potatoes using a potato masher or pass them through a potato ricer for an even creamier texture.
    4. Slowly add the warm butter and cream mixture to the mashed potatoes, stirring or mashing until well incorporated. Be careful not to overmix to avoid your mashed potatoes becoming gluey.
    5. Season your creamy mashed potatoes with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If desired, mix in your chosen garnishes like chopped chives or parsley.
    6. Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving dish, top with a pat of butter if desired, and serve warm.

    This simple mashed potatoes recipe will yield a side dish that’s perfectly creamy and velvety in texture. For variations, consider adding roasted garlic, grated cheese, or cooked and crumbled bacon to add a unique twist to your mashed potatoes. Enjoy!

  • Margherita Zoodle Casserole

    Love the classic Margherita flavors but looking for a low-carb alternative? This Margherita Zoodle Casserole recipe is a perfect choice. Combining fresh zucchini noodles with the beloved trio of tomato, basil, and mozzarella, this dish brings a healthy and refreshing twist to your dinner table.

    Ingredients:

    • 4 medium-sized zucchini, spiralized into noodles
    • 1 tablespoon olive oil
    • 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
    • 1 cup marinara sauce
    • 1/2 teaspoon salt
    • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
    • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
    • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
    • Fresh basil leaves, chopped for garnish
    • Non-stick cooking spray

    Instructions:

    1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Spray a casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray.
    2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and cherry tomatoes, sautéing until the tomatoes are soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
    3. Stir in the marinara sauce, salt, and black pepper, and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
    4. Place the spiralized zucchini noodles (zoodles) into the casserole dish. Pour the tomato mixture over the zoodles and toss gently to combine.
    5. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the zoodle mixture.
    6. Bake in the preheated oven until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, about 20-25 minutes.
    7. Remove from oven and let it sit for 5 minutes to allow the juices to be absorbed and the casserole to set.
    8. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

    This healthy and satisfying Margherita Zoodle Casserole is not only a feast for your eyes but a treat for your taste buds. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s ready in under an hour, perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a leisurely weekend meal. Serve it up, and watch as everyone asks for seconds!

  • Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Risotto

    Introduction

    Risotto is a classic Italian dish known for its creamy texture and rich flavors. This chicken and mushroom risotto combines tender chicken, flavorful mushrooms, and Arborio rice into a hearty and satisfying meal. Perfect for a cozy night in or a dinner party with friends!

    Ingredients

    • 2 tablespoons olive oil
    • 1 pound chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
    • Salt and pepper to taste
    • 1 small onion, finely chopped
    • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 cup Arborio rice
    • 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
    • 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
    • 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
    • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
    • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
    • Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

    Instructions

    1. Heat one tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat in a large pan or skillet. Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.
    2. In the same pan, add another tablespoon of olive oil and sauté the onions until translucent. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
    3. Stir in the Arborio rice and toast it for a minute or two until the edges become slightly translucent.
    4. If using wine, pour it into the pan and let it cook off until the liquid is nearly absorbed. Otherwise, proceed to the next step.
    5. Start adding the warm chicken broth one ladle at a time, stirring gently and waiting for the rice to absorb the liquid before adding more. This process should take about 15-20 minutes.
    6. While the risotto is cooking, sauté the mushrooms in a separate pan until they’re browned and set them aside.
    7. Once the rice is al dente and creamy, lower the heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese and butter until melted and incorporated.
    8. Add the cooked chicken and mushrooms to the risotto, stir to combine everything evenly.
    9. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
    10. Garnish with fresh parsley, serve immediately, and enjoy!

    Tips and Variations

    • For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
    • Add other vegetables like peas or spinach for additional color and nutrition.
    • If you don’t have white wine, you can simply use more chicken broth.
    • To make this dish even creamier, stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end.

    Whether it’s a special occasion or just a regular weekday meal, this chicken and mushroom risotto makes for a delightful and comforting dish that’ll please everyone at the table. Buon Appetito!

  • Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry

    Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry

    If you’re in the mood for a light yet satisfying meal, this Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry is exactly what you need. It is a simple and flavorful dish that combines tender shrimp with fresh broccoli, all tossed in a savory sauce. Not only is this dish quick to prepare, but it’s also packed with protein and vitamins. Let’s dive into the recipe and get cooking!

    Ingredients

    • 500g large shrimp, peeled and deveined
    • 2 cups broccoli florets
    • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
    • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
    • 3 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1/4 cup soy sauce
    • 2 tablespoons water
    • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
    • 1 tablespoon honey
    • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
    • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
    • Salt and pepper to taste
    • Sesame seeds for garnish
    • Sliced green onions for garnish

    Instructions

    1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, water, cornstarch, honey, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. Set the sauce aside.
    2. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add broccoli florets and a splash of water, then stir-fry until they are bright green and tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
    3. In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, typically 2-3 minutes on each side. Add the minced ginger and garlic during the last 30 seconds of cooking to avoid burning. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside with the broccoli.
    4. Reduce the heat to low and pour the prepared sauce into the skillet. Allow it to simmer and thicken for about 1 minute, stirring constantly.
    5. Return the cooked shrimp and broccoli to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the sauce. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, until everything is heated through.
    6. Transfer to a serving plate, garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions, and serve immediately. Enjoy your delicious Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry!

    Conclusion

    This Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry is not only quick and easy to make, but it’s also incredibly versatile. Feel free to add other vegetables you like, such as bell peppers or carrots, to customize the dish to your taste. It’s a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet without sacrificing flavor. Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete meal that the whole family will love!

  • Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells

    Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells

    Looking for a cozy and satisfying meal to share with your family? These Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells are a delightful blend of creamy cheese, vitamin-rich spinach, and hearty pasta shells, all covered in a savory tomato sauce. Perfect for a comforting dinner any night of the week or as a star dish at your next gathering, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table.

    Ingredients:

    • 24 jumbo pasta shells
    • 15 oz ricotta cheese
    • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
    • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
    • 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
    • 1 egg
    • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 tbsp olive oil
    • 1 tsp salt
    • 1/2 tsp black pepper
    • 1/4 tsp nutmeg
    • 2 cups marinara sauce
    • Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

    Instructions:

    1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
    2. In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until they are al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.
    3. While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
    4. Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until it wilts, about 3-4 minutes. Set aside to cool.
    5. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of mozzarella, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Stir in the cooled spinach and garlic mixture until well blended.
    6. Spoon about 1 to 1 1/2 tablespoons of the spinach-ricotta filling into each pasta shell.
    7. Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
    8. Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer on top of the sauce.
    9. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells, making sure to cover them entirely.
    10. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese over the top.
    11. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
    12. Remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and starting to brown.
    13. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and extra grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
    14. Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving.

    This recipe for Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells is not only a joy to make but also to serve and enjoy. Each shell is packed with a mouthwatering mixture that perfectly balances creamy and indulgent with fresh and nutritious, providing a harmonious dish that will be remembered and requested time and time again.

  • Spinach and Mushroom Quesadilla

    Spinach and Mushroom Quesadilla

    For those who love the earthy flavors of mushrooms combined with the nutritional benefits of spinach, this Spinach and Mushroom Quesadilla recipe is the perfect quick and easy meal to enjoy any time of the day. With melted cheese and a crispy tortilla, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.

    Ingredients:

    • 4 large flour tortillas
    • 1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped
    • 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
    • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a mix)
    • 1/2 onion, diced
    • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    • 2 tablespoons olive oil
    • Salt and pepper to taste
    • Optional for serving: salsa, sour cream, or guacamole

    Instructions:

    1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic and sauté until translucent.
    2. Add mushrooms to the skillet, and cook until they are soft and have released their moisture.
    3. Stir in the spinach and cook until just wilted. Season with salt and pepper, then remove from heat to a separate plate.
    4. Clean the skillet and return it to the stove, increasing heat to medium-high. Drizzle with remaining olive oil.
    5. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle cheese evenly over one half of the tortilla. Then add a generous amount of the spinach-mushroom mixture on top of the cheese.
    6. Fold the empty half of the tortilla over the filling and press down gently with a spatula. Cook until the bottom of the quesadilla is golden brown.
    7. Carefully flip the quesadilla over and cook until the second side is crispy and the cheese inside is melted.
    8. Transfer the quesadilla to a cutting board and let it sit for a minute before cutting into wedges. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
    9. Serve the quesadillas hot with your choice of salsa, sour cream, or guacamole on the side.

    Tips:

    • For a heartier meal, add some cooked chicken or black beans to the filling.
    • Use a mix of different cheeses to get a more complex flavor.
    • To make it extra crispy, you can brush the outside of your tortilla with a bit of oil before cooking.

    Enjoy your savory and cheesy Spinach and Mushroom Quesadilla, perfect for a quick lunch, dinner, or a satisfying snack!

  • Chicken Alfredo Zoodle Stir-Fry

    Ingredients:

    • 2 large zucchinis
    • 1 tablespoon olive oil
    • 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
    • Salt and pepper, to taste
    • 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
    • 1/2 cup onions, diced
    • 1 cup Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
    • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
    • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

    Instructions:

    1. Start by spiralizing the zucchinis into noodles using a spiralizer. If you don’t have a spiralizer, you can use a julienne peeler to create long, noodle-like strips. Place the zoodle on paper towels to remove excess moisture.
    2. In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the pan. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
    3. In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed, and then add the minced garlic and diced onions. Sauté until the onions become translucent and garlic is fragrant, about 2 minutes.
    4. Add the zoodles to the pan with the onions and garlic, and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes or until the zoodles are tender but still have some crunch.
    5. Lower the heat and add the cooked chicken back into the pan, then pour the Alfredo sauce over the top. Stir well to combine, allowing all the ingredients to be coated with the sauce. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until everything is heated through.
    6. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the stir-fry and toss until the cheese is melted and evenly distributed.
    7. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Remove from heat.
    8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

    Serving Suggestions:

    For an even more filling meal, serve your Chicken Alfredo Zoodle Stir-Fry alongside a crisp green salad or some garlic bread. Enjoy your healthier version of a classic dish without sacrificing flavor!

    Note: If you prefer a thinner sauce, you can add a little bit of milk or pasta water to reach your desired consistency. Also, feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the stir-fry for added nutrition and color.

    This Chicken Alfredo Zoodle Stir-Fry recipe makes for a deliciously satisfying yet light dinner that won’t leave you feeling weighed down. It’s also an excellent way to include more vegetables in your diet in a creative and tasty manner. Enjoy!

  • Greek Chicken and Spinach Zoodle Casserole

    Embark on a culinary journey to the Mediterranean with this delicious Greek Chicken and Spinach Zoodle Casserole. This recipe is not only packed with flavors but also offers a healthy twist with zucchini noodles, also known as ‘zoodles’, taking the place of traditional pasta. It’s a perfect balance of protein, greens, and aromatic herbs that will surely become a favorite in your meal rotation.

    Ingredients:

    • 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
    • 1 pound chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
    • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
    • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
    • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
    • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
    • 1/4 teaspoon salt
    • 4 medium zucchini, spiralized
    • 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
    • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
    • 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
    • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
    • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
    • 1 lemon, zest and juice

    Instructions:

    1. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken with oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until it’s no longer pink inside and slightly golden on the outside. Remove the chicken and set aside.
    2. In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the spiralized zucchini (zoodles) and cook for about 2-3 minutes, just until slightly tender. Be careful not to overcook them as they will become mushy.
    3. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
    4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, zoodles, spinach, cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and half of the feta cheese. Add lemon zest and half of the lemon juice, tossing gently to mix.
    5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining feta cheese on top.
    6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the casserole is heated through and the cheese melts beautifully.
    7. Finish the casserole with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a drizzle of the remaining lemon juice.
    8. Serve hot and enjoy a taste of Greece!

    Tips:

    • To prevent soggy zoodles, make sure to pat them dry with a paper towel before cooking.
    • You can personalize this casserole by adding other Greek-inspired ingredients such as artichoke hearts or red onion.
    • For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with chickpeas or white beans.

    This Greek Chicken and Spinach Zoodle Casserole not only satisfies your cravings for a rich and flavorful meal but also keeps things light and nutritious. Whether you’re looking for a new weeknight dinner option or a way to impress guests, this casserole is sure to delight everyone at the table.

  • Exploring the Traditional Bruneian Ambuyat

    Bruneian Ambuyat: A Cultural Culinary Experience

    Bruneian Ambuyat is the national dish of Brunei, a unique culinary dish that provides a true taste of the country’s tradition and culture. Made from the interior trunk of the sago palm, it’s a dish that is both simple and complex in its significance and preparation. Ambuyat is more than just food; it’s a communal experience that brings people together.

    Ingredients:

    • Sago starch (you can find this at Asian specialty stores or online)
    • Water
    • A bamboo fork called ‘candas’ (traditional tool for eating Ambuyat, but chopsticks or two skewers can be used as a substitute)

    Instructions:

    1. Place the sago starch in a large bowl.
    2. Bring water to a boil in a kettle or pot.
    3. Gradually pour the hot water into the bowl with the sago starch while stirring continuously with the candas or your substitute tool.
    4. Continue to add water and stir until the mixture becomes sticky and thickens into a glue-like consistency.
    5. Once ready, roll a small amount of ambuyat around the candas and dip into a flavorful sauce, traditionally a sour fruit-based sauce or a savory fish sauce.

    Accompaniments:

    Ambuyat is never eaten alone. It’s typically served with an array of side dishes that can include:

    • Grilled fish or meat
    • Vegetables like okra or eggplant
    • Various savory sauces, such as tempoyak (fermented durian sauce) or cacah (made with binjai or mango)

    Conclusion:

    Making Ambuyat at home can be a delightful way to immerse yourself in Bruneian culture. It’s often eaten with fingers, which makes it a fun and interactive meal to share with family and friends. Try this simple recipe to partake in a dining experience that is a staple in Bruneian households and capture the essence of a nation’s culinary spirit.