Hanger Steak with Romesco Sauce
A simple but well constructed marinade produces a steak that is bursting with flavor, whether grilled or cooked on the stovetop. The vibrant sauce is optional but endlessly versatile. When I shared this simple, endlessly versatile recipe for Everyday Green Salad, I mentioned how much I enjoyed testing a variety of Alexis deBoschnek’s…
Everyday Shallot Vinaigrette
This versatile vinaigrette is punchy enough to make a winning salad out of greens alone yet welcoming to all sorts of mix-ins. Plus it’s quick to make with ingredients easily kept on hand. With its crisp crunch, vibrant color, and fresh appeal, the right salad has the power to complete virtually any meal. The…
Small Batch Ranch Dressing (or Dip)
This small batch recipe is endlessly versatile, fresher tasting than store-bought, and ideal for all those times you don’t need a whole bottle. (Although it’s so good you may end up doubling it!) When I buy a bottle of ranch dressing, much of it inevitably goes to waste. So I don’t often buy it…and…
Salsa Verde Chicken (Instant Pot or Slow Cooker)
Quick to prep and brimming with flavor, this endlessly versatile chicken can be served over rice, in tacos or enchiladas, and can be customized with a variety of toppings. This is on my list of easy meals that defy expectations—and we can never have too many of those! Looks can be deceiving. Case in…
Homemade Hot Honey
Hot honey is the buzz-worthy condiment that adds spicy-sweet appeal to all sorts of sweet and savory dishes. It’s easy to make at home—and cheaper than store-bought—and is a great gift! Traditionally used over fried chicken and biscuits in the south and more recently to flavor the likes of gourmet pizzas and fancy cocktails…
Smoky Roasted Red Pepper Hummus
A few key ingredients add vibrant color and flavor to this classically creamy, protein-rich dip. And while perfect as a filling snack or easy appetizer, hummus can be enjoyed in other unexpected ways as well! Traditional hummus pulls its weight as a filling snack and easy appetizer, but the creamy, protein-rich dip doesn’t stop there.…
Homemade Zesty Italian Dressing Mix
You control the ingredients with this copycat recipe that’s easy to make with everyday spices. Fast, fresh-tasting, economical, and endlessly versatile! A packet of Good Seasons Zesty Italian Dressing provided a convenient shortcut for me for years. I first discovered it when I was dating my husband and we were invited to a coworker’s…
Classic Homemade Barbecue Sauce
Sweet and tangy with a hint of heat, this easy sauce is the perfect complement to chicken, chops, ribs, brisket, and pulled pork sandwiches. Or stir some into mayo for a delicious sandwich spread! When I make this barbecue sauce, I still think of the day over 20 years–and a different career–ago when I…
The Essential Marinade (equal parts of 3 easy ingredients!)
This may be the easiest, tastiest, and most versatile marinade you’ve ever tried, and all you need is equal parts of three basic ingredients. (Video included!) This is perhaps the easiest marinade ever. Even better, this recipe demonstrates how three basic ingredients can be the foundation for a multitude of meals that are doable enough…
Taco Refrigerator Pickles
Cool, crisp refrigerator pickles get a new flavor twist in this easy recipe that’s perfect for snacking, adding to sandwiches, and serving alongside a variety of barbecue fare. No canning required! On his holiday shopping expedition last year, Christian stopped in a local store that makes a small but impressive variety of pickles. Along…
Salsa Simmered Halibut (or other white fish)
Your choice of fish simmers to tender perfection for a super speedy meal that’s bursting with flavor. The easy sauce can be customized in a surprisingly simple way, making this meal a favorite with adults and kids alike. A reader recently mentioned that he’d like to incorporate more fish into his weeknight repertoire but lacks creative, family friendly ways…
Spinach Pesto
Easy, accessible, and endlessly versatile, this flavorful pesto is especially ideal when fresh herbs aren’t available. Perfect for adding flavor to pasta, pizza and flatbread, sauces, sandwiches, and so much more, the simple recipe can be customized with a variety of nuts, seeds, and cheeses. Plus it maintains its vibrant green color and freezes well! …
