Weeknight Favorite Recipes

Quick Russian Dressing

Five minutes is all you need to prepare creamy, tangy Russian dressing that will elevate Reubens, Rachels, burgers, and more.    The first time I prepared this sauce, I was making Rachels and Reubens and realized as the meal was underway that I had no Russian dressing, a necessity in the classic deli fare. Thousand Island…

Smashed Green Peas

This speedy but special side dish reinvents a bag of frozen peas and can be enjoyed in place of regular peas, as a fancy base for salmon, or as an economical and always fresh alternative to avocado toast. Fresh peas in the summer are a treat. Happily, I have found that frozen peas can truly…

Perfectly Broiled Salmon

Perfectly cooked salmon with a golden crust is endlessly versatile and can be on your plate in less than 10 minutes, start to finish.   In my early days of cooking salmon, I always broiled it. As a young mom trying to get a good dinner on the table fast, I appreciated the speed and…

Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry

The simplest of ingredients meet a flavor-packed sauce for a prep-ahead meal that’s destined to become a weeknight favorite!    In the latest installment of Fountain Avenue Kids, high school senior Kenny Jackson-Kiefer is taking over the kitchen, demonstrating a dish that checks all his boxes โ€“ high in protein, easy to make in advance, and delicious!   Kenny is one…

Quinoa Taco “Meat”

Plant-based tacos and bowls are within easy reach thanks to this clever recipe. Taco Tuesday just got a whole lot more exciting!    In our latest installment of Fountain Avenue Kids, Abby and Ethan are back to share a dish that reinvented taco night in their house, where some people eat meat, and some donโ€™t.…

Brussels Sprouts Salad with Lemon Dijon Vinaigrette

Exceptional flavor and versatility are the hallmarks of this vibrant salad, which makes a meal out of virtually any protein, from chicken and pork to salmon, shrimp, steak, and burgers. Plus, the prep is nearly effortless when using a package of pre-shredded Brussels sprouts! I make a lot of salads. Their color adds visual appeal…

Lemonย Dijon Vinaigrette

Four basic ingredients create a bright, punchy vinaigrette that holds its emulsification beautifully and adds exceptional flavor to a wide range of salads.    When I first developed this dressing, I wanted to call it Sunshine Vinaigrette. The golden hue and beautifully emulsified consistency feels like a ray of light, while the flavor is bright…

Spanish-Style Chickpeas

Pantry staples come together lightening quick in this plant-based meal thatโ€™s equal parts flavorful, satisfying, and budget friendly!   Spanish-style chickpeas were inspired by a tapas dish I enjoyed while living in Spain many years ago, as well as a complimentary appetizer at Quahogs, a restaurant we’ve long enjoyed during summer visits to Stone Harbor,…

Everyday Kale Salad

A short list of fresh ingredients pairs with pantry staples to deliver a kaleidoscope of flavors, colors, and textural appeal while offering flexibility based on what you like and have on hand. A simple protein will create a complete meal. Don’t miss the linked suggestions for an endless supply of easy, mix-and-match meals.    If the thought…

Cold Pan Seared Pork Chops

No more tough, dry pork chops! A clever technique guarantees tender, juicy meat every time, and you won’t believe how easy it is.   When cooked properly, a thick, lean pork chop can be juicy and so full of flavor. All of us, however, have likely been served more than one pork chop thatโ€™s dry…

Pretzel Fish with Honey Mustard Sauce

With its crisp coating and flavorful sauce, Pretzel Fish with Honey Mustard Sauce offers a quick and easy meal the whole family will love!   Welcome to the latest edition of Fountain Avenue Kids! A flavorful, three-ingredient sauce pulls double duty as โ€œglueโ€ for the crispy, pretzel crumb coating in this family friendly meal, which was the first fish dish…

Honey Mustard Sauce (or Dressing)

A speedy way to elevate a simple weeknight meal, this versatile sauce pairs perfectly with chicken, pork, fish, veggies, and so much more!   Store-bought condiments have their place, but sometimes, a homemade version is easy to whip up at home with basic ingredients–and actually tastes better than a name brand bottle.  We don’t always…

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