Tag: dinner

Salmon cakes (With a homemade lemon aioli)

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There’s something magical about turning a simple piece of fresh salmon into these crispy, golden cakes. With each bite, you get the perfect balance of tender, flaky fish and bright, zesty flavors that feel like a celebration of summer on your plate. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with friends, these salmon cakes are the kind of dish that makes you feel like you’ve pulled off something impressive, without any fuss. Crispy, flavorful, and utterly satisfying, they’re sure to be a new favorite!

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 pound fresh salmon fillet (skinless, bones removed)
  • 1/2 small onion
  • 1 small red bell pepper (I used a small red and orange)
  • 1 small clove of garlic (pressed)
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (you can use panko)
  • 2 tbs. mayonnaise
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (finely chopped)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper (to taste)
  • 1-2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)

Aioli Ingredients: Mix all together (SIMPLE!)

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbs. lemon juice (I used a real lemon)
  • 2 tsps. Lemon zest (Or more if you love lemon like me)
  • Salt & Pepper (to taste)

Instructions:

  1. Cook the salmon & onion mixture:
    • Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat with a little olive oil.
    • Season the salmon with a pinch of salt and pepper, and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until the salmon is opaque and easily flakes with a fork. Alternatively, you can bake the salmon at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes.
    • Let the salmon cool for a few minutes, then flake it with a fork into small pieces. Make sure to remove any remaining bones or skin.
    • Once the salmon is done (using the same pan) sauté the onions, pepper, and garlic until soft, let cool.
  2. Prepare the mixture: (Once everything is cooled down a bit)
    • In a large bowl, combine the flaked salmon, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, egg, onion mixture, salt, pepper, and any seasonings you’re using.
    • Stir everything together until well mixed. The mixture should be firm but slightly sticky. If it feels too wet, add a little more breadcrumbs.
  3. Form the cakes:
    • Shape the salmon mixture into 4 even patties, pressing gently so they hold together.
  4. Cook the cakes:
    • Heat 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
    • Once the oil is hot, add the salmon cakes and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. Don’t crowd the pan—cook them in batches if necessary.

These salmon cakes are a perfect mix of crispy and tender, bringing a little sunshine to any meal. Simple to make but full of flavor, they’re the kind of dish that leaves everyone asking for seconds. Serve them up, sit back, and enjoy the smiles they bring!

Creamy Tuscan Salmon

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If you’re looking for a restaurant-quality dinner that’s quick, comforting, and packed with flavor, this Creamy Tuscan Salmon is just the dish. Pan-seared salmon fillets are nestled in a rich, garlicky cream sauce with sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and Parmesan—bringing bold Tuscan-inspired flavors to your table in under 30 minutes. It’s perfect for a cozy night in, but elegant enough to impress guests.

Ingredients

  • 4 salmon fillets (skinless or skin-on, about 6 oz each)
  • Salt & pepper, to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (with oil) Or cherry tomatoes (I used both)
  • 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 3 cups baby spinach
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 2 tsp fresh basil
  • Red pepper flakes (optional, to taste)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Season the Salmon:
    • Pat salmon dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.
  2. Sear the Salmon:
    • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
    • Sear salmon fillets for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  3. Make the Sauce Base:
    • In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and sauté onion until soft (about 3 minutes).
    • Add garlic and cook until fragrant (30 seconds).
  4. Build the Sauce:
    • Stir in sun-dried tomatoes / tomatoes, Italian seasoning and basil. Cook 1 minute.
    • Pour in the broth and simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.
    • Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Simmer gently until the sauce thickens (about 3–4 minutes).
  5. Add Spinach:
    • Add spinach and let it wilt into the sauce.
  6. Serve:
    • Garnish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon if desired.
    • Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta. I used pasta.

Optional Add-ins:

  • Mushrooms or chopped zucchini for extra veggies
  • A splash of white wine in place of part of the broth
  • Fresh thyme for extra herb flavor

This Creamy Tuscan Salmon is an easy, flavorful dish that comes together quickly and feels a little extra special. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, it’s a satisfying meal that’s sure to please. Enjoy!

Zucchini Fries (Air-fryer)

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Let’s be honest—zucchini isn’t exactly the Beyoncé of the vegetable world. It’s that quiet overachiever in the fridge, just waiting for its moment. Well, friends, this is it. These zucchini fries are crispy, golden, and so delicious they’ll have you questioning every life decision that led you to regular French fries (though I’m not giving those up either). Whether you’re trying to impress your taste buds or just sneak veggies past your family (or yourself), this recipe is here to save the day—one crunchy bite at a time. I went for the air-fryer option (my oven has that setting)

Ingredients:
2 medium zucchini
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
1 tablespoon water
1 cup breadcrumbs (or panko)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, but adds flavor)
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp paprika
Salt & black pepper to taste
Cooking spray or oil (for air fryer or baking)

Instructions:

  1. Prep Zucchini
    • Wash and dry the zucchini.
    • Cut into fry-sized sticks (around 3 inches long and 1/2 inch thick).
  2. Set Up Dredging Station
    • Bowl 1: Flour, seasoned with a pinch of salt and pepper.
    • Bowl 2: Whisk eggs with 1 tbsp water.
    • Bowl 3: Mix panko, Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. Coat the Fries
    • Dredge each zucchini stick in flour, then egg, then breadcrumb mixture.
    • Press crumbs on firmly so they stick.

Cooking Options:

Option 1: Baked

  • Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
  • Place fries on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Spray lightly with oil.
  • Bake 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp.

Option 2: Air Fryer

  • Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
  • Place fries in a single layer (work in batches if needed).
  • Air fry for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway.

Option 3: Fried

  • Heat 1–2 inches of oil in a pan to 350°F (175°C).
  • Fry in small batches for 2–3 minutes until golden.

Drain on paper towels and season with salt.

These crunchy, golden sticks are everything you never knew zucchini could be. Snack, side, or star of the show—they’re here to steal the plate. Serve with ranch or your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy!

Happy New Year

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As we turn the page on a brand new year, I want to take a moment to send my warmest wishes to all my friends—thank you for the support that made last year so special to me. Here’s to a year filled with new adventures, unexpected joys, and, of course, lots of love and good food!

Speaking of food, I’m setting a delicious intention for the year ahead—trying more recipes! Whether it’s experimenting with ingredients I’ve never worked with, exploring new cuisines, or just perfecting those comfort food classics, I’m excited to dive deeper into the kitchen this year. I’d love to challenge myself to cook more, bake more, and share the process with all of you.

If you’ve been thinking about trying something new in the kitchen, I encourage you to join me! The new year is the perfect time to explore, whether it’s making a fancy dinner for yourself, testing out homemade bread, or attempting your first soufflé. Don’t worry if it doesn’t come out perfect; it’s all part of the fun and learning. Plus, the best memories are often made around a table with friends, sharing the food you’ve made with your own hands.

Here’s to a year of bold flavors, delicious experiments, and plenty of happy meals shared with those we love. Let’s make 2025 a year to savor, one recipe at a time. Happy New Year to all of you! 🎉✨

What recipes are you looking forward to trying this year? Let’s inspire each other in the kitchen!