Author Archives: Laura Youngquist
August 18, 2024
Taco Pasta
Transform your dinner routine with a dish that blends the vibrant flavors of tacos into a comforting pasta creation. This Taco Pasta recipe brings together tender pasta shells, savory ground beef, and a rich, cheesy sauce that will delight your taste buds. It’s a perfect fusion of Mexican-inspired spices and classic pasta comfort, all in one skillet. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or hosting a casual gathering with friends, this Taco Pasta is sure to be a hit. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how easy it is to bring a touch of Tex-Mex flair to your table tonight! The recipe can be found here. Start by preparing all the ingredients; chop the onion and cilantro, mince the garlic, drain the olives, and set everything aside. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the noodles according to package instructions, until al dente. … Continue reading
August 13, 2024
Jolly Rancher Infused Vodka
Are you ready to add a burst of fruity fun to your next party? Look no further than Jolly Rancher Infused Vodka! This vibrant and flavorful twist on a classic spirit is sure to be a hit with your friends and family. With just a handful of ingredients and a little patience, you can create a delicious, candy-infused vodka that’s perfect for mixing into refreshing cocktails. The recipe can be found here. Start by unwrapping 15 Jolly Ranchers of the same flavor and place in a mason jar. Add 2 cups of vodka, seal the lid, and shake. Set on the counter for about 24-48 hours to infuse the vodka. Shake every few hours (or as frequently as you remember) until the Jolly Ranchers are dissolved, and the vodka is very flavorful. You should have enough of a few flavors to make more than just one flavor if you want … Continue reading
August 7, 2024
Smoked Cheesy Potatoes
Experience the perfect harmony of smoky flavors and creamy indulgence with our Smoked Cheesy Potatoes recipe. This dish combines thawed hash browns with shredded cheddar, diced white onions, Dean’s French Onion Dip, and creamy chicken soup. Seasoned with paprika, salt, and black pepper, these potatoes are smoked to perfection, infusing every bite with a tantalizing smokiness. Whether as a hearty side or main attraction, these potatoes promise to elevate any meal with their irresistible blend of comfort and outdoor-cooked flavor. The recipe can be found here. Start by preheating your smoker to 225 degrees F using any flavor wood chips you prefer. Combine the hashbrowns, cheddar cheese, onion, french onion dip, and cream of chicken soup in a large mixing bowl. Season with salt and pepper, to taste, and stir to combine. Pour the mixture into a 9×13 foil pan and spread into an even layer. Sprinkle paprika over the … Continue reading
August 2, 2024
Smashburger Tacos
Tacos are a beloved staple, but have you ever tried them with a twist? Get ready to elevate your taco game with our tantalizing Smashburger Tacos! This innovative recipe takes classic taco elements and merges them with the irresistible flavors of a Smashburger. Picture this: perfectly seasoned ground beef, seared to caramelized perfection with hints of salt, black pepper, and Lawry’s Seasoned Salt. Nestled inside soft flour tortillas, each taco is adorned with gooey American cheese slices that melt into the savory meat, creating a symphony of flavors in every bite. But that’s not all! We top off these culinary creations with crisp pickle chips for a refreshing crunch, and a drizzle of ketchup and mustard for that iconic burger-inspired finish. Whether you’re planning a weekend fiesta or a cozy dinner at home, these Smashburger Tacos are guaranteed to steal the show. Let’s dive into this recipe that promises to … Continue reading
July 28, 2024
Smoked Shrimp
Few dishes capture the essence of summer quite like smoked shrimp, where tender seafood meets the rich, smoky flavors imparted by pecan or cherry wood chips. This recipe elevates the classic shrimp with a blend of Old Bay Seasoning, zesty lemon juice, and a luxurious garlic butter sauce infused with aromatic rosemary. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply craving a taste of coastal indulgence, join us as we explore how to transform simple ingredients into a sensational seafood delight. The recipe can be found here. Start by preheating the smoker to 275 degrees F with pecan or cherry wood chips. These are great wood chip flavors when working with shrimp but any wood chip flavor you prefer is fine. Rinse, de-vein, and de-shell the shrimp, as needed. Place the shrimp in rows in an 8×8 foil pan. Sprinkle Old Bay Seasoning over the top. Melt the butter in … Continue reading
July 23, 2024
Rhubarb Elderflower Summer Cocktail
As the summer heat beckons for refreshing libations, nothing quite captures the essence of the season like a Rhubarb Elderflower Summer Cocktail. This vibrant drink combines the tartness of rhubarb with the delicate floral notes of elderflower, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. This cocktail isn’t just a drink; it’s a celebration of summer’s bounty, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess with every sip. Whether you’re lounging by the pool or hosting a backyard soirée, the Rhubarb Elderflower Summer Cocktail promises to elevate your summer gatherings to new heights of enjoyment. Cheers to the season’s finest flavors! The recipe can be found here. I’ll walk you through making the simple syrup and crafting the cocktail in the following steps. The first step is the simple syrup and the star of the cocktail. Add the rhubarb, water, lemon juice, and sugar to a large saucepan. … Continue reading
July 20, 2024
Raspberry Rhubarb Cosmopolitan
In the height of summer, when rhubarb blushes crimson and raspberries burst with sweetness, there’s no better time to savor the vibrant flavors in a Raspberry Rhubarb Cosmopolitan. This cocktail marries the tartness of rhubarb with the brightness of raspberries, creating a symphony of flavors perfect for warm evenings and lively gatherings. To craft this refreshing libation, start by preparing a delightful Raspberry Rhubarb Simple Syrup. This essence of summer will infuse your cocktail with a depth that lingers on the palate. The recipe can be found here. I’ll walk you through making the simple syrup and crafting the cocktail in the following steps. The first step is the simple syrup and the star of the cocktail. You want to add the rhubarb (fresh or frozen), raspberries, and water to a medium saucepan and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Lower the heat to medium-low once boiling, cover, and … Continue reading
July 17, 2024
Street Corn Chicken Salad
Imagine a vibrant salad that captures the essence of summer on every forkful. This Street Corn Chicken Salad does just that! It’s a celebration of fresh ingredients and bold spices, perfect for a light lunch or a satisfying dinner. In this recipe, tender chicken mingles with sweet corn, creating layers of flavor that are both comforting and refreshing. The addition of diced red bell pepper, red onion, and jalapeno adds a crunch and a hint of heat that complements the creamy dressing. Speaking of dressing, we’ve lightened things up with a mix of mayonnaise and nonfat Greek yogurt, brightened by the zest and juice of a lime. A blend of spices—cumin, paprika, and chili powder—adds depth and a subtle smokiness, while salt and pepper bring everything into perfect balance. To finish, fresh green onions, cilantro, and crumbled Cotija cheese are sprinkled over the top, adding a burst of freshness and … Continue reading
July 12, 2024
Himalayan Salt Block Shrimp
Looking to elevate your culinary skills with a simple yet elegant dish? Himalayan Salt Block Shrimp is the perfect recipe to impress your guests and tantalize your taste buds. This exquisite dish combines the succulent flavor of large shrimp with the subtle, mineral-rich essence of a Himalayan salt block. It’s a gourmet experience that’s surprisingly easy to create at home. Fresh shrimp, lightly marinated in a blend of olive oil, lemon juice, and minced garlic, are cooked to perfection on a heated Himalayan salt block. The salt block imparts a unique flavor profile that is both rich and delicate, enhancing the natural sweetness of the shrimp without overwhelming it. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet night in, this recipe will bring a touch of gourmet flair to your table. Stay tuned as we dive into the step-by-step process of creating this mouthwatering dish, ensuring you achieve … Continue reading
July 7, 2024
Chocolate Chip Potato Chip Cookies
Are you ready to take your cookie game to the next level? Introducing a cookie that perfectly balances the sweet richness of chocolate chips with the unexpected crunch and saltiness of potato chips. Our Chocolate Chip Potato Chip Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic chocolate chip cookie, guaranteed to satisfy both your sweet and salty cravings in every bite. Join us on this delicious adventure and discover the irresistible charm of sweet and salty in one unforgettable cookie. The recipe can be found here. Start by adding the butter, brown sugar, and sugar to the bowl of a stand mixer. Cream together until light and fluffy. Add the eggs and vanilla and mix until combined. Add the flour, baking soda, and salt, and mix until well incorporated. Add the chocolate chips and mix until well combined. Transfer the mixture to a mixing bowl (from the stand mixer bowl). … Continue reading
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