Blog - Page 30 of 41 - Ahead of Thyme

Tomato Cucumber Avocado Salad

Simple tomato cucumber avocado salad is a light and refreshing salad that you need in your back pocket. This quick and easy recipe comes together in literally 5 minutes. It's loaded with tomato, cucumber, and avocado, with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, and tossed in a delicious lemon dressing. It's the perfect salad to throw together when you are craving something healthy and delicious quick.

Why You'll Love Tomato Cucumber Avocado Salad

It's so easy to make. Tomato cucumber avocado salad is one of the easiest recipes you'll come across (if not the easiest). Simply chop your three veggies and toss them together. It's perfect for newbies in the kitchen, families who want to get kids involved in the kitchen, and those who just don't have a lot of time on their hands.
Enjoy it all year round. I love salads. I could eat salad all day and all night. And the best part of this salad is that it is not limited to seasonal ingredients. It's packed with ingredients that you can find at your grocery store all year long. So whenever your salad craving hits (and trust me, it will happen often with this one!), you can enjoy a plate of delicious fresh tomato cucumber avocado salad, no matter what time of the year it is.
Simple dressing. The lemon dressing is also very easy to make and requires only 4 simple ingredients -- lemon juice, olive oil, salt and pepper. Plus, you likely have most of these ingredients in your house right now.

Ingredients and Substitutions

To make this easy and simple tomato avocado cucumber salad, you will need the following ingredients (full quantities in recipe card below):

grape tomatoes - You can also use cherry tomatoes sliced in half. If you only have regular tomatoes on hand, cut them into 1-inch pieces.
cucumber - You will need about 1 cup of cucumbers (about ½ large English cucumber). Feel free to replace with a different kind of cucumber that you have on hand. I often use 1-2 Persian cucumbers and just slice them instead of quartering them.
avocado
cilantro - Or you can substitute with fresh parsley or dill, if you prefer.
lemon juice
extra virgin olive oil
salt and pepper

This salad is extremely versatile and you can customize it however you please. For instance, some of my favorite ingredients to add in are red onions, feta cheese, sunflower seeds, or minced garlic.

How to Make the Best Tomato Avocado Cucumber Salad

First, combine tomatoes, cucumber, avocado, and cilantro in a large mixing bowl. Then, in a small mixing bowl, mix together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt and pepper until smooth and combined. Pour dressing the salad and toss gently to combine.

Storing Instructions

Make ahead instructions: The great thing about this salad is that you can make a big batch at once and store it in airtight container or divide and store in meal prep containers for lunches throughout the week. I would recommend keeping the dressing separate and only add it to the salad that you are consuming that day. This will keep the veggies super crisp.
How to store: Store tomato cucumber avocado salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Double up: This recipe makes a salad that can serve one very hungry person, or 2-3 side salads. Easily double the quantities to feed a larger crowd.

More Salad Recipes with Cucumber

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I'd love to hear what you think! Leave a comment and rating below to share your feedback. Your reviews help others discover this recipe and help me keep creating more free recipes for you. Snap a photo and tag me on social media @aheadofthyme too.

This post was original published in 2016. It has been completely updated with new content and photographs.

Glazed Lemon Blueberry Scones

Glazed lemon blueberry scones are crunchy and golden on the outside, soft and moist in the middle, with a drizzle of lemon glaze on top. They are packed with fresh blueberries. Seriously, if you love blueberry season as much as I do, then take advantage of it and pick up a batch at the farmer's market and make freshly baked, homemade, glazed lemon blueberry scones. The best part? They are ready to serve in about half an hour. Perfect for your next brunch this summer.

Why You'll Love Glazed Lemon Blueberry Scones

Lemon and blueberries = the perfect pairing. I mean, if you don't already know, lemon and blueberry are an absolute match made in heaven. Here they're partnering in a light, tender and flakey scone, drizzled with a sweet lemon glaze that is nothing short of impressive. Total breakfast goals... or lunch goals!
They are quick and easy to make. If you haven't made scones before, you will be pleasantly surprised to find out that scone batter is so easy to come together. You can even make the decision to bake these on morning of, then quickly pull together the ingredients, and be enjoying them with a cup of coffee or tea within the hour! That alone should be reason to whip these up.
The perfect summer brunch. They are the perfect treat while fresh blueberries are in season (or any time, really, since you could even use frozen blueberries if you must!), and totally worth making for friends or family if you're hosting an upcoming brunch or breakfast. You need these in your life.

Ingredients and Substitutions

To make these delicious glazed lemon blueberry scones, you will need the following ingredients:

all-purpose flour
sugar
baking powder
salt
ground cinnamon
butter
blueberries - I recommend using fresh blueberries, but you can use frozen blueberries if you must.
buttermilk - most scone recipes only use heavy cream, but the addition of buttercream in the dough gives these the most pleasant tangy flavour.
heavy cream
egg
lemon glaze - made with confectioners' sugar and lemon juice.

You will also need measuring cups and spoons, mixing bowls, and a half sheet baking pan.

How to Make the Best Glazed Lemon Blueberry Scones

Make the dough. In a large bowl, sift together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Add butter and using your hands or a pastry cutter, cut the butter into the flour until the size of peas, working quickly so the butter stays cold. Carefully fold in blueberries so they don't burst. In a small bowl, combine buttermilk and ½ cup heavy cream.
Combine wet ingredients with dry ingredients. Make a well in the center of the flour mixture, then pour in the liquid mixture. Use a rubber spatula to carefully fold the ingredients until the liquid is just incorporated.

Shape the dough. Roll the dough out onto a lightly floured surface, adding more flour as needed if too sticky to work with. Press down into a small rectangle, about 6-inches by 8-inches. Cut the dough in half once horizontally and twice vertically to create 6 equal rectangles. Slice each rectangle in half diagonally to form 12 triangle-shaped scones. Carefully transfer scones to a large half sheet baking pan lined with a silpat baking mat or parchment paper.
Bake. In a small bowl, whisk together egg and 1 tablespoon heavy cream. Brush the tops of the scones with egg wash, then bake in a 400 F preheated oven for 16-18 minutes, or until scones are lightly golden brown. Let cool 5 minutes in pan, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Make lemon glaze. While scones are cooling, combine confectioner's sugar and half the lemon juice in in a small bowl. Whisk until combined, adding more lemon juice as needed to reach desired glaze consistency. When scones are cool, drizzle lemon glaze on top.

Storing and Reheating Instructions

How to store: Store leftover blueberry scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
How to freeze: Let the blueberry scones cool completely, then freeze in single layers between sheets of parchment for up to 3 months. To thaw, place in the refrigerator overnight or on the kitchen counter.
How to reheat: You can enjoy scones warm or at room temperature. To heat, you can place in a 300F preheated oven or air fryer until warmed through, about 5-10 minutes.

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Tandoori Chicken Drumsticks

Tandoori chicken drumsticks are crispy on the outside, juicy and tender inside, and packed with delicious flavor. This easy dinner is a traditional Indian meal that is typically made in a tandoor oven, but we have adapted it to an easy-to-make at home dinner that you can cook in the oven, stovetop, or on the grill. With quick prep and just a few dishes, this will become a staple on busy weeknights. Plus, if you marinate the chicken in advance, it will absorb more delicious flavor and will just require a simple pop into the oven. So simple and tasty.

Why You'll Love Tandoori Chicken Drumsticks

Easy to make. Tandoori chicken drumsticks are easy to make. It takes just a couple minutes to throw the marinade together and coat the chicken. Once marinated, you just pop them into the oven. It's a serious low-maintenance meal that even first time cooks can succeed at well.
Packed with flavor. The delicious marinade is what gives these drumsticks its iconic flavor. It's loaded with spices like turmeric, cumin, ginger, and garam masala. Plus, we recommend making a few shallow cuts in the meat to allow the flavor to infuse even better.
Great on their own or with sides. These easy tandoori chicken drumsticks are a delicious meal on their own, or can be paired well with so many sides. Some of my favorites to pair this with are Garlic Naan Bread, Basmati Rice, or roasted vegetables such as Roasted Cauliflower, Honey Roasted Carrots, Roasted Garlic Green Beans, or Garlic Parmesan Baby Potatoes.

Ingredients

To make these easy and delicious tandoori chicken drumsticks, you need the following ingredients:

chicken drumsticks - You need about 3 lbs. or 10 drumsticks. I keep the skin on because crispy skin is everything. You can remove the skin if you prefer, but the texture may be slightly drier.
salt and pepper
garlic powder
ginger root powder
ground turmeric
ground cumin
garam masala
paprika - People often add red food coloring to get a deep red color in the tandoori chicken. We use some paprika to help add that coloring instead. For a deeper red color, feel free to add some red food coloring.
olive oil
lemon juice
plain Greek yogurt
fresh cilantro - optional, for garnish.

You also need measuring cups and spoons, mixing bowl, and half sheet baking pan.

How to Make the Best Tandoori Chicken Drumsticks

Prep the chicken. Use a paper towel to pat dry the chicken drumsticks completely before adding seasoning. Score each drumstick with a knife to make 2-3 shallow cuts, about ¼-inch deep. This helps the chicken soak in all the flavors.
Marinate the chicken. In a small mixing bowl, combine salt, pepper, garlic powder, ginger root powder, turmeric, cumin, garam masala, and paprika. Mix well with a spoon until evenly distributed. Rub the seasoning all over the chicken to coat evenly including in between the cuts.
Refrigerate. Place chicken drumsticks into a zip-loc bag. Add in all the wet ingredients including oil, lemon juice, and yogurt and stir well to combine. Press the air out of the bag and seal tightly. Press the marinade around the chicken drumsticks to coat. Place bag in the refrigerator and marinate for at least 1 hour, up to overnight.
Cook the chicken. You can cook the chicken in the oven, on the stovetop, or on the grill.
1. To cook in the oven: Preheat the oven to 400F. Arrange the marinated chicken drumsticks on a large half sheet baking pan and bake for 40-45 minutes until the skin is crispy and the internal temperature for the chicken reaches 165 F. Turn over once halfway through baking. Turn the broiler on high and and cook until nicely charred, about 5 more minutes.
2. To pan fry: Heat 1 tablespoon cooking oil in a large cast-iron skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat for 2 minutes until the hot oil sizzles and shimmers. Sear the drumsticks in batches for 6-8 minutes on each side until cooked through and nicely charred. The internal temperature for the chicken should reach 165 F.
3. To grill: Preheat the grill to high heat for at least 5 minutes. Place the chicken drumsticks on the grill and cook over medium heat for 3-4 minutes on each side until nicely charred and the internal temperature for the chicken reaches 165 F. Flip occasionally to avoid overcooking.
Serve. Let the drumsticks rest for 5 minutes. Drizzle with extra lemon juice and garnish with cilantro.

Storing Instructions

How to store: Allow the chicken drumsticks to cool to room temperature, then transfer to a shallow airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
How to reheat: Reheat uncovered in a 325 F preheated oven for about 20 minutes until warmed through. You can brush or spray them with oil for extra crispy skin. You can also reheat them in the microwave (in increments of 20 seconds until heated all the way through), but they retain their taste and texture better when reheated in the oven.
How to freeze: Allow the cooked chicken drumsticks to cool to room temperature, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. Eliminate as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn, and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

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Asian Chopped Salad

Asian chopped salad is a delicious and colorful salad that you need in your life. Loaded with refreshing crisp vegetables, plant-based protein, and a homemade creamy sesame dressing, this vegan salad is packed with flavor in every bite. The best part? All you need is 10 minutes to throw this powerhouse dish of essential nutrients and vitamins together. It's the perfect salad to serve as a main course or as a side.

Why You'll Love Asian Chopped Salad

Get more cabbage in your diet! Cabbage is good for more than just Classic Coleslaw. It's a secret superfood packed with antioxidants and vitamins C and K! Research also suggests that cabbage has properties that protect the body against cancer and radiation. So, whether you prefer red, white, or purple cabbage, more of this leafy green will be good for you.
It's so easy to make. Asian chopped salad is one of the easiest recipes you'll come across. Simply chop your veggies and toss them together. This makes it an ideal recipe for amateur cooks, people who want to get kids involved in the kitchen, and those who don't have a lot of time on their hands.
Fresh and delicious flavor. With all the fresh vegetables and savory Creamy Sesame Dressing, this Asian chopped salad is yummy, crunchy, fresh, and satisfying. It checks all the right boxes.

Ingredients and Substitutions

To make this quick and easy Asian chopped salad, you will need the following ingredients:

romaine lettuce
purple cabbage
bell pepper - use any bell pepper that you have on hand. I used yellow, but will oftentimes use red or green as well, or a combination of the three.
carrot
extra firm tofu
shelled edamame - be sure to use shelled edamame, which is edamame without their pods.
fresh cilantro - optional, for garnish on top.
white sesame seeds - extra sesame seeds on top for garnish.
creamy sesame dressing - I recommend homemade Creamy Sesame Dressing. It's super easy to make in just 5 minutes. You can also use a store-bought sesame dressing if you prefer -- whatever is easier.

Asian chopped salad is super versatile. You can literally throw in any vegetables that you like. I would keep the lettuce and cabbage, but consider adding or substituting with ingredients such as water chestnuts, cashews, peanuts, broccoli, baby corn, bok choy, and kale.

How to Make the Best Asian Chopped Salad

This Asian chopped salad is one the easiest salads you could ever make. Simply combine the salad ingredients into a large mixing bowl or serving dish. Then pour creamy sesame dressing on top, and toss to combine. Serve immediately with cilantro and sesame seeds on top.

Storing Instructions

Make ahead instructions: If you need meals on the go, divide the salad into smaller portions in meal prep containers that you can easily take with you. Otherwise, store it in a large container. If you like your veggies crisp, wait to dress the salad until it's time to eat. They'll get progressively soggier the longer they sit in the dressing.
How to store: Store Asian chopped salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

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Creamy Sesame Dressing

Creamy sesame dressing is a quick and easy dressing that will elevate your favorite meals. It's delicious, savory, and nutty, and pairs amazingly on top of salads, used as a marinade for fish and chicken, or drizzled as a sauce on top of vegetables and rice bowls. The best part? You can make this creamy Asian dressing in just 5 minutes with a 6 simple ingredients. Make a big batch and use it up to elevate your meals over the next couple of weeks.

Why You'll Love Creamy Sesame Dressing

A vegan dressing that is ultra creamy. This creamy sesame dressing is primarily made of tahini, which is a sesame paste that adds creaminess to this sauce. Which means that you get all the creaminess without the added dairy -making it ideal for families with dietary restrictions.
Packed with sesame flavor. This creamy sesame dressing is made with sesame oil, tahini (sesame paste), and sesame seeds, which means it's packed with delicious sesame flavor in every form!
Simple, quick and easy. You only need 5 minutes and 6 simples ingredients to whip up this creamy sesame dressing. There really is no reason to go for store-bought when it's this easy to make homemade dressing.

Ingredients and Substitutions

To make this easy and delicious homemade creamy sesame salad dressing, you will need the following ingredients:

soy sauce
balsamic vinegar - or substitute with white vinegar.
olive oil
sesame oil
tahini - you can also substitute with peanut butter if you don't have tahini on hand. It will change the taste slightly but it is still quite delicious
white sesame seeds

This Asian sesame dressing is completely customizable. If you like prefer a sweeter sesame dressing, feel free to add up to 1 tablespoon honey. You can also add ingredients like chili, red pepper, sriracha, basil, cilantro, or thyme.

How to Make the Best Creamy Sesame Dressing

Add all ingredients into a medium mixing bowl and stir well with a spoon until combined. Or place in a mason jar and seal with the lid. Shake until well combined.

Use immediately or store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Shake or stir well before using to prevent separation.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

How to roast sesame seeds: You can also use roasted sesame seeds for more depth of flavor. If you only have raw, feel free to use it or easily pop them into the oven or heat on the stovetop for a few minutes for a quick roast.
How to serve creamy sesame salad dressing. You can serve this dressing over any salad, especially an Asian-style salad such as Vegan Soba Noodle Salad, Asian Cold Noodle Salad, or Asian Chopped Salad. It's also delicious in a Coleslaw. You can also drizzle it over a Rice Bowl.
Use it as a marinade. You can also use this dressing as a marinade for chicken, beef, pork, or seafood, or drizzle it over grilled vegetables.

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Creamy Mushroom Pasta

Creamy mushroom pasta is packed with buttery garlicky mushrooms swimming in a delicious creamy Parmesan sauce. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, but fancy enough for dinner on date night or any special occasion. Seriously, it takes just 20 minutes to make this vegetarian pasta (including prep!).

Why You'll Love Creamy Mushroom Pasta

Creamy parmesan sauce. Made with the natural juices from the mushrooms, lots of garlic, fresh parsley, butter and cream, this delicious and comforting creamy sauce is just meant to be soaked up with pasta.
Mushrooms are a superfood. You might be thinking that some veggies are missing in this recipe-but this pasta is packed with mushrooms, which are doing all the heavy lifting for your health here. Full of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, mushrooms help promote brain, bone, and immune health. They're also low-calorie, cholesterol-free, and fat-free!
You only need 20 minutes. Creamy mushroom pasta is an essential recipe to keep in your quick weekday cookbook. It takes less than 20 minutes to make and contains a lot of non-perishable food items. It's an easy pasta that the whole family will love.

Ingredients and Substitutions

To make this delicious creamy mushroom pasta, you will need the following ingredients:

pasta - you can use any shape of pasta that you would like. I prefer a long noodle such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or linguine, for soaking up all that sauce.
olive oil
brown mushrooms - I prefer brown mushrooms (also known as cremini mushrooms) but you can use other types of small mushrooms as well such as white mushrooms or shiitake mushrooms.
salt and pepper
butter
garlic
all-purpose flour - helps to thicken up the sauce.
heavy cream - for the creamiest results, use heavy cream. But if you are looking for a healthier version, feel free to substitute with half and half cream.
Parmesan cheese
fresh parsley

How to Make the Best Creamy Mushroom Pasta

Make the pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over medium-high heat. Add pasta and cook until al dente (fully cooked but still firm), or according to package directions, about 10 minutes. Drain well and set aside in the pot. Drizzle a little olive oil and toss together to keep the pasta from sticking together.
Sauté mushrooms. In a large skillet or shallow saucepan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat for 2 minutes until the hot oil sizzles. Add mushrooms and season with salt and pepper. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until nicely browned on all sides.
Make sauce. Add butter, garlic and flour. Stir well for 1 minute until fragrant and well-combined. Add heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Stir well and bring the sauce to a simmer. Reduce heat to medium and keep stirring until thickened to a desired consistency.
Toss with pasta. Add cooked spaghetti into creamy mushroom sauce and toss well to combine. Sprinkle with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley on top, and serve immediately.

Storing Instructions

How to store: Allow any leftover creamy mushroom pasta to cool to room temperature before placing it in the refrigerator. Store in an airtight container and refrigerate for 3-4 days. Freezing pasta is not recommended.
How to reheat: For best results, reheat creamy mushroom pasta on the stovetop in a covered pan on low heat. Add a dash of water or chicken broth to thin out the sauce, which will naturally thicken as it heats. If the sauce becomes too thin, heat uncovered until it thickens.
Make it vegan: To make this creamy mushroom pasta recipe vegan, you only need to omit the dairy. Substitute dairy-free butter or use oil instead of butter, omit the Parmesan cheese and substitute full-fat coconut milk for heavy cream.

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Shrimp Scampi with Zucchini Noodles

Shrimp scampi with zucchini noodles is a low-carb, keto, and gluten-free version of a classic pasta dish. It is garlicky, flavorful, and delicious. We replace traditional pasta with zoodles (aka. zucchini noodles) in this classic Italian-American dish for a meal that is healthier and lighter, yet quite filling. The best part? It's quick and easy, taking just 25-minutes to prep and cook. Perfect for busy summer weeknights.

Why You'll Love Shrimp Scampi with Zucchini Noodles

Quick and easy. This entire meal takes just 25 minutes to prep and cook. It's a super simple recipe with a few steps. First, cook the zoodles, then make the sauce and add shrimp, and lastly toss everything together. Serve it as is or with an extra crusty piece of bread to sop up the delicious sauce.
Packed with flavor. This recipe is not for people who are afraid of garlic. The insanely fragrant sauce is made up of oil, butter, red pepper flakes, and a ton of minced garlic. It compliments the shrimp beautifully, and honestly you will be surprised by how delicious this is with zucchini noodles!
Healthy and nutritious. The zucchini noodles cook up quickly in a large non-stick skillet, but then completely mirror the texture of al dente pasta. You're left with lots of vegetables, no carbs, and a perfect vessel for eating up that flavour-packed sauce. This is one recipe you will be making over and over again during the summer months!

Ingredients and Substitutions

To make this delicious low carb shrimp scampi with zoodles, you will need the following ingredients:

zucchini
shrimp
extra virgin olive oil
butter
garlic
broth - you can use seafood, chicken or vegetable broth -- whatever you have on hand.
salt and pepper
red pepper flakes
lemon
fresh parsley - optional, for garnish.

You will also need a measuring cups and spoons, a spiralizer, and a large non-stick skillet or shallow saucepan

How to Make the Best Shrimp Scampi with Zucchini Noodles

Cook the zucchini noodles. Cut the ends off of each zucchini and cut into noodles using a spiralizer. In a large non-stick skillet (this is important!), heat 3 tablespoons olive oil over medium-high heat. Add zucchini noodles and sauté, tossing gently, until tender, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
Make the sauce. In the same skillet, heat remaining 3 tablespoons olive oil and butter until butter is melted. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add broth, then season with salt, red pepper flakes, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Let sauce reduce until thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
Add shrimp. Return heat to medium-high, then add shrimp and cook until pink, about 1-2 minutes per side. Squeeze half a lemon over the shrimp, then toss with zoodles.
Serve. Serve scampi with fresh parsley and additional lemon wedges.

Storing Instructions

Make ahead instructions: You can prep your ihe best way to prep things ahead for zucchini shrimp scampi is to spiralize the noodles, but wait to cook them until right before serving. The noodles can get soggy or watery as they sit, so best to cook them and eat immediately.
How to store: Shrimp scampi with zucchini noodles are best served fresh. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 1-2 days. Reheat over the stove on medium-low heat until just hot.

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Tofu and Mushroom Stir Fry

Quick, easy, and simple, vegan tofu and mushroom stir fry is a delicious meal that is ready in under 15 minutes. Versatile tofu soaks up all the earthy flavors of mushrooms and fresh bok choy, coated with salty soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, and fragrant garlic to create a well-rounded meal for busy weeknights when you don't have a lot of time for dinner. Serve it over a bowl of steamed rice with extra sesame seeds on top.

Why You'll Love Tofu and Mushroom Stir Fry

Stir fry is easy to make. Tofu and mushroom stir fry is a vegan meal that is ready in less than 15 minutes (so you should get your rice cooking before you start!). Plus, everything is cooked in one wok, so there are few dishes to clean up. It's a great option for those busy weeknights when you're low on energy and short on time.
Packed with plant-based protein. There's a reason people love tofu. It's a great meat substitute and is one of the best sources of plant-based protein. It also contains so many other vitamins and nutrients including iron, zinc, copper, calcium, magnesium, manganese, phosphorous, and vitamin B1.
Sautéed mushrooms. You might not know this, but mushrooms are a superfood that can combat many health conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and even cancer. They contain fiber, protein, and antioxidants-which are essential in a healthy diet. This a meal you can feel very good about feeding to your family.

Ingredients and Substitutions

To make this easy vegan tofu and mushroom stir fry, you will need the following ingredients:

olive oil - or any vegetable oil that you have such as coconut oil or grape seed oil.
garlic
mushrooms - most mushrooms will work, my personal favorites are shiitake mushrooms or brown mushrooms.
extra firm tofu - extra firm tofu is best because it will hold its shape.
baby bok choy - or substitute with sui choy. Spinach could also work.
soy sauce
balsamic vinegar or black rice vinegar
ground black pepper
sesame oil - sesame oil has incredible depth of flavor that really elevates this stir fry. But if you don't have any on hand, you can leave this out.
sesame seeds

How to Make the Best Tofu and Mushroom Stir Fry

Sauté garlic. In a large wok or skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat for 2 minutes until the hot oil sizzles. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Stir fry vegetables. Add mushrooms and tofu and stir to cook until nicely browned, about 3-4 minutes. Add bok choy and stir fry for 2 minutes, allowing it to soften.
Add in sauce. Stir in soy sauce, vinegar and pepper. Mix well until evenly distributed. Drizzle with sesame oil and sprinkle sesame seeds on top.
Serve. Serve immediately with steamed rice. You could also serve over a plate of fried noodles.

Storing and Reheating Instructions

How to store: Tofu and mushroom stir fry tastes best fresh, but you can certainly store leftovers for another day. Once cooled, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.
How to reheat: You can reheat leftovers on the stovetop or in the microwave:
- To reheat on the stove: Reheat in a wok or skillet over medium-low heat until thoroughly warmed, about 5-10 minutes. You can reheat leftover rice at the the same time too if you want everything mixed together.
- To reheat in the microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover the entire bowl with a damp paper towel and reheat in 15-second increments until hot. This will steam the leftovers and prevent them from drying out.

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Air Fryer Mexican Shrimp

Air fryer Mexican shrimp is juicy, tender, fresh, and delicious. It's coated in classic Mexican flavors which packs on the flavor in every bite. The best part? It takes just 5 minutes to prep and 10 minutes to cook. It's so quick and easy -- the best way to enjoy a delicious meal on a busy weeknight. Serve it as is, over a plate of rice, or as a topping on your favorite tacos, salads, and more.

Why You'll Love Air Fryer Mexican Shrimp

Quick and easy to make. This is one of the easiest air fryer recipes ever. You literally toss all your ingredients together, pop them into the air fryer, and enjoy in about 10 minutes.
Healthy and nutritious. Shrimp is something you will feel good about feeding to your family. It's a type of seafood that is packed with nutrients, minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids, provided lots of health benefits.
So many ways to serve. You can serve this shrimp on its own with fresh cilantro sprinkled on top or with a side of Cilantro Lime Rice. You can also used it for Shrimp Tacos with Lime Cilantro Slaw, Shrimp Taco Salad, or Shrimp Avocado Tostadas. The options are endless!

Ingredients and Substitutions

To make this delicious and easy shrimp taco salad, you will need an air fryer and the following ingredients:

shrimp - You will need one pound of white shrimp. To prepare them, use scissors to cut through the shell along the back of the prawns, and remove the shells and tails. Rinse to remove the veins and pat dry with paper towel.
olive oil
ground cumin
chili powder - optional for a spicy kick
paprika
garlic powder
dried oregano - or substitute this with Italian seasoning
salt and pepper

How to Make the Best Air Fryer Shrimp

Prepare the shrimp. In a medium bowl, add shrimp, olive oil, cumin, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, oregano, salt and pepper. Toss well to coat and set aside to marinate for 15 minutes (if you have the time).
Cook the shrimp. Transfer the shrimp into the air fryer basket. Cook at 350 F for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket once halfway through.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

How to store: Leftover shrimp will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container. Allow it to cool to room temperature before placing in the refrigerator.
How to reheat shrimp: Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat until warmed through, about 5 minutes, or in the microwave for about 1 minute. You can also reheat in a preheated oven or air fryer at 300F for about 5 minutes until warmed through. Reheating can cause the shrimp to be a little drier than when served fresh. You can also eat leftovers cold on a salad.
Alternate cooking methods: You can cook this shrimp in the oven by spreading it evenly on a parchment-lined quarter sheet baking pan and baking in a 400 F preheated oven for 8-10 minutes until the shrimp turns pink. You can also cook over the stovetop by sautéing over medium-high heat for 5 minutes until shrimp turns pink and nicely browned.

More Air Fryer Recipes

For more Mexican-inspired recipes, check out these 30 Best Mexican Recipes.

For more shrimp recipes, check out the 30 Best Shrimp Recipes.

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40 Best Pasta Recipes

Craving pasta for dinner tonight but are wondering what to make? Well, you have come to the right place. We are sharing this compilation of our 40 best and most popular pasta recipes so that you don't have to look any further when you are looking for a comforting plate of pasta. You will find everything from meaty pastas, lasagnas, chicken pastas, seafood pastas, vegetarian pastas, pasta bakes, pasta salad and soup, and more! Plus, these delicious recipes are EASY and most of them are quite quick (I am talking about 15-20 minutes quick), making most of them perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that the whole family will love.

Easy and Popular Pasta Recipes

Pasta Bake with Sausage (Baked Ziti)

Pasta bake with sausage (baked ziti) is a lazy day lasagna with layers of pasta tossed in a rich meat sauce, layered with mozzarella, and baked.

Pesto Penne Pasta

Quick and easy pesto penne pasta is a simple and light Italian pasta dish made with just five ingredients in under 15 minutes. The easiest dinner.

Creamy White Chicken and Spinach Lasagna

Creamy white chicken and spinach lasagna with tender shredded chicken is the most comforting creamiest cheesiest white lasagna. Easy to make ahead & freeze.

Stovetop Mac and Cheese with White Cheddar

Quick and easy, creamy stovetop mac and cheese with white cheddar is a delicious and comforting one pot 20-minute meal packed with three types of cheese.

Creamy Tomato Pasta

This Creamy Tomato Pasta is a simple and delicious meal made from scratch in 25 minutes with a cream and tomato based sauce that is rich and silky smooth.

Spaghetti Carbonara

Creamy spaghetti carbonara (Spaghetti a la Carbonara) is a simple classic Italian pasta with pancetta that's quick and easy to make in minutes.

Shrimp Alfredo

Shrimp Alfredo is creamy, garlicky, and delicious! This quick and easy, under 30-minute recipe is a go-to for busy nights and a year-round family favorite.

Cheesy Tortellini and Sausage Bake

Quick and easy, cheesy tortellini and sausage bake is a delicious 30-minute dinner packed with flavour. A family-favourite comfort food for busy weeknights.

Mascarpone Pesto Pasta

Quick and easy mascarpone pesto pasta is the tastiest creamy pasta dish you'll ever make in under 15 minutes. It's the best weeknight dinner.

Easy Meat Lasagna

Classic easy meat lasagna is the ultimate Italian comfort food with layers of tender lasagna, meaty tomato sauce, cheese filling and melted cheese on top.

Fettuccine Alfredo

Fettuccine alfredo is a classic Italian pasta dish that is rich, creamy, and delicious. Plus, it comes together in less than 15 minutes!

Spaghetti Bolognese

Quick easy spaghetti bolognese with a rich, thick, delicious and flavourful meat sauce is a family favourite ready in 30 minutes. Best weeknight dinner.

Beef Stroganoff

Beef stroganoff is a delicious, flavorful, and comforting Russian pasta dish that is ready in under 25 minutes. The perfect weeknight dinner.

Chicken Penne Pasta

Chicken penne pasta is a quick and easy dinner that is delicious, rich, creamy, and flavorful. It's a family favorite that's ready in under 30 minutes.

Ground Turkey Pasta Bake

Ground turkey pasta bake is an easy yet impressive meal that is cozy, comforting, and satisfying. A family-friendly casserole dinner ready in 45 minutes.

Creamy Shrimp Pasta with Sun-dried Tomatoes

Creamy shrimp pasta with sun-dried tomatoes is a delicious, quick and easy meal that takes just 20 minutes to prep and make. The perfect weeknight dinner. | aheadofthyme.com

Turkey Tetrazzini with Spinach

Creamy turkey tetrazzini with spinach is a simple, easy and delicious pasta recipe that is comforting, creamy and cheesy. The recipe used turkey, but you can easily substitute it with leftover chicken or a storebought rotisserie chicken instead.

Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Pasta Bake

Creamy shrimp fettuccine alfredo pasta bake is garlicky, buttery, cheesy, loaded with shrimp + parsley and topped with mozzarella. Easy comfort food goals.

Farfalle Pasta with Mushroom Rose Sauce

Farfalle pasta with mushroom rose sauce is creamy yet light, delicious and flavorful, and quick and easy to make in 20 minutes. Best comfort food dinner!

Lemon Butter Pasta

Lemon butter pasta is quick and easy to make, light yet filling, and loaded with flavor. A delicious twist on classic buttered noodles ready in 15 minutes.

Homemade Hamburger Helper

Homemade hamburger helper is a family favorite but you can make a cheaper, healthier, and way tastier version at home, ready in just 30 minutes.

Tagliatelle Pasta

Creamy Mushroom Tagliatelle Pasta is a quick and easy, restaurant-worthy vegetarian dinner that is ready in just 30 minutes! Elevated comfort food at home.

Baked Ravioli

Baked Ravioli is simple delicious comfort food that is perfect for a weeknight family dinner or for entertaining. It's hearty, comforting, and kid-friendly.

Vegetarian Bolognese

This Vegetarian Bolognese is a quick and easy vegetable-packed pasta with the flavor, texture, and goodness of a traditional Bolognese without the meat.

Stuffed Shells

Ricotta stuffed shells are an easy, hearty, and classic Italian comfort food that can feed the whole family. Easy to make ahead and freeze for another day.

Baked Mac and Cheese

Classic baked mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food - creamy, cheesy, and cozy, topped with a crunchy breadcrumb topping. It's quick and easy too.

Spaghetti and Meatballs

Quick and easy spaghetti and meatballs is delicious, rich, comforting with tender beef meatballs simmered in a savoury tomato sauce. Make it in 30 minutes.

Lasagna Roll Ups

Lasagna roll ups are a twist on traditional lasagna. Lasagna noodles are filled with cheese and meat sauce and rolled up. Make ahead and freezer-friendly!

Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta

Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is a delicious 30 minute recipe that is packed with flavor, quick and easy to make, and will satisfy the whole family.

Baked Feta Pasta

Baked Feta Pasta is a quick and easy weeknight dinner recipe that is creamy, delicious, and flavorful - the whole family will love this Tiktok pasta!

Brie Mac and Cheese

Brie mac and cheese takes traditional macaroni and cheese to the next level. It's creamy, comforting, delicious, and easy to make in about 30 minutes.

Creamy Mushroom Pasta

Creamy mushroom pasta is packed with buttery garlicky mushrooms swimming in a delicious creamy Parmesan sauce. Quick and easy make in 20 minutes.

Spring Pesto Pasta with Asparagus

Spring pesto pasta with asparagus and chives is light and made with simple ingredients in under 20 minutes. Serve it hot for dinner or cold as pasta salad.

Cacio e Pepe

Cacio e pepe is a simple, authentic Italian pasta dish made with just four ingredients in 20 minutes. It's delicious, flavourful and easy to make.

Baked Gnocchi

Cheesy Baked Gnocchi is quick and easy comfort food made all in one pot with chewy bites of gnocchi, a simple tomato-based sauce, and gooey melty cheese.

Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese

Butternut squash mac and cheese is a flavorful and delicious fall twist on a classic, with a rich and creamy sauce that is secretly loaded with veggies.

Creamy Salmon Pasta

This simple creamy salmon pasta is quick and easy to make, delicious and flavorful, and loaded with salmon. A weeknight dinner in under 30 minutes.

Mediterranean Baked Shrimp Orzo

Mediterranean baked shrimp orzo is a complete wholesome one pot meal with delicious sautéed vegetables, juicy shrimp, and orzo pasta. Make it in 30 minutes.

Spinach Artichoke Pasta

If you're a fan of spinach artichoke dip, you need to try this spinach artichoke pasta. It's quick and easy comfort food is ready in under 30 minutes.

Toasted Ravioli

Toasted Ravioli is a classic Italian appetizer that is crispy and golden on the outside, and tender and gooey on the inside. Ready in less than 30 minutes!

Butternut Squash Lasagna

Butternut squash lasagna is a delicious, warm and cozy vegetarian lasagna to make this fall when the your family is craving major comfort food this fall.

Mussels Pasta in Tomato Sauce

Mussels pasta in tomato sauce is a simple, light and fresh, seafood pasta dinner that you can make at home in 30 minutes. Easiest weeknight dinner.

Vegetarian Lasagna with Spinach

This Vegetarian Lasagna with Spinach is creamy, cheesy, and delicious. This classic Italian dish gets a meatless upgrade in this vegetarian version.

Avocado Basil Pesto Spaghetti

This easy 10-minute vegan light and creamy avocado basil pesto spaghetti is loaded with avocado, basil, walnuts, garlic, olive oil and lemon juice.

Baked Mediterranean Pasta

Baked Mediterranean pasta is simple, flavorful, and vibrant, loaded with fresh tomatoes, artichoke hearts, and olives, and topped with mozzarella cheese.

Pumpkin Pasta

Pumpkin Pasta is one of the quickest and easiest pasta dishes you can make this fall! It's flavorful, creamy, cheesy, and made with real pumpkin!

Spaghetti Alfredo with Spinach and Mushrooms

10-minute creamy spaghetti alfredo with spinach, mushrooms and tomatoes is tossed in a smooth buttery and garlicky alfredo sauce with fresh parsley.

Orecchiette Pasta with Sausage, Broccoli Rabe, and Roasted Red Peppers

Orecchiette pasta with sausage, broccoli rabe, and roasted red peppers is a mix of spicy, sweet, and crunchy, and is on the table in less than 30 minutes!

Butternut Squash Carbonara Pasta

If you like traditional carbonara, you are going to love creamy butternut squash carbonara pasta with Parmesan, bacon and sage. The best fall comfort food.

Skillet Lasagna

This one pan Skillet Lasagna has all the same ingredients and flavors as a traditional meat lasagna but with minimal prep and is ready in just 40 minutes.

Fried Mac and Cheese Balls

Fried mac and cheese balls are crispy on the outside, creamy and cheesy on the inside, and have the perfect crunch. Best way to use leftover mac and cheese.

Pasta Soup

Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

Smooth, hearty and light, one pot lemon chicken orzo soup is pure comfort in a bowl. This family favourite is like chicken noodle soup with a major upgrade. Serve it with some crispy sourdough discard crackers with sesame seeds.

Creamy Tortellini Soup with Sausage

Hearty and creamy tortellini soup with sausage, spinach and kale is total comfort food in a bowl. Make this flavourful one pot meal in under 30 minutes.

Lasagna Soup

Lasagna soup is a twist on a classic Italian recipe with all the same delicious comforting flavors in the form of a hearty one pot soup.

Creamy Turkey Orzo Soup

Warm and cozy, creamy turkey orzo soup is wholesome, hearty, filling, and flavourful. Make this delicious one pot meal with leftover turkey in 30 minutes.

White Chicken Lasagna Soup

White chicken lasagna soup is a thick and creamy soup version of this classic Italian dish. It's quick and easy to make in just 30 minutes.

Pasta Salads

Italian Pasta Salad

Italian pasta salad is delicious, wholesome, and easy to make. Make it up to three days ahead for your summer picnics and cookouts. You can't get more classic than Italian Salad on Memorial Day!

Mediterranean Orzo Pasta Salad

Quick and easy Mediterranean orzo pasta salad packed with fresh vegetables and herbs is tossed in a Greek lemon vinaigrette. Healthy, light and delicious.

Macaroni Salad

Classic macaroni salad is a creamy and delicious pasta salad that is easy to throw together. It's the perfect side to bring to a summer potluck or BBQ.

Greek Pasta Salad

Greek Pasta Salad is quick and easy, loaded with Mediterranean flavors, and delicious. Serve it at a summer cookout or potluck, or meal prep weekly lunches.

How to Store and Reheat Pasta

Store any of these easy pasta recipes in an airtight container (once cooled to room temperature) and place in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Most of these are also freezer-friendly so you can store them for up to 3 months in the freezer!

For any stovetop pasta, you can reheat again over the stove on medium-low heat until warmed through. You may have to add a splash of water as the sauce will have likely thickened up when stored in the refrigerator. For casserole-type pastas like lasagna and pasta bakes, you can also reheat over the stove, or you can reheat in the oven at 300F for 10-15 minutes, or air fryer for 5-10 minutes, until fully warmed through. Refer to the specific recipe post for full storing and reheating instructions.

Did You Make Any of These Pasta Recipes?

Please leave a comment and rating below, and let me know what you thought of this round up of the best pasta recipes. Be sure to snap a picture and tag me on Instagram @aheadofthyme or share it on the Pinterest pin so that I can follow along.

HUNGRY FOR MORE? Don't forget to sign up for my email newsletter so that you don't miss any recipes. You can also follow along on Instagram and Pinterest for more recipe updates.

Watermelon Feta Salad

Watermelon feta salad is a simple and delicious refreshing summer salad that you need in your life this season. Fresh, juicy watermelon is tossed with crunchy cucumbers, tangy feta cheese, and refreshing mint. It's the perfect side dish to bring to your next BBQ or potluck, or to serve at home on a hot sunny day. The best part is that you can toss everything together in about 5 minutes. You can't go wrong with a salad this easy and delicious.

Why You'll Love Watermelon Feta Salad

Quick and easy. Watermelon feta salad may be one of the fastest salads you'll ever throw together. With a few simple ingredients, you can prep and toss everything together in about 5 minutes.
Best pairing of ingredients. You get everything with this watermelon feta salad when it comes to flavor. The sweet, crisp, and refreshing watermelon and cucumber pair perfectly with the savory taste of feta cheese. Fresh mint and lemon juice add a special kick that you don't want to miss.
Pairs with all summer dishes. Watermelon feta salad pairs well with almost anything. It's the best side dish for a barbecue this summer, and it tastes great on the same plate as macaroni salad, juicy hamburgers, BBQ ribs, chicken skewers, and other classic summer grilling dishes.

Ingredients and Substitutions

To make this simple and delicious watermelon feta salad with cucumbers, you will need the following ingredients:

watermelon - you will need 4 cups of watermelon, which is about ½ of a medium sized watermelon.
English cucumber - you will need one long English cucumber, or about 1-2 cups cubed cucumber.
fresh mint - you can substitute mint with fresh basil as well.
feta cheese - you can substitute this with goat cheese if desired, or leave it out for a vegan salad.
olive oil - I would recommend using a high-quality olive oil.
lemon juice - you can substitute with lime juice as well.
salt and pepper

The great thing about having a cold watermelon feta salad is that you can customize it with your favorite flavors. You can consider adding: balsamic vinegar, sliced red onions, fresh spinach, and sliced almonds.

How to Make the Best Watermelon Feta Salad

Combine salad ingredients. In a large mixing bowl or serving platter, add watermelon, cucumber, mint, and feta cheese.
Make dressing. In a small mixing bowl, whisk to combine olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Toss together. Pour dressing over the salad and toss to combine. Season with additional salt and pepper if desired, to taste. Sprinkle with extra feta cheese if desired and serve immediately.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

How to cut a watermelon: The easiest way to cut your melon (if you don't have a melon baller) is to slice it in half. Then, cut the halves into thirds or quarters lengthwise (depending on the side of your melon). Then, slice off the rind from the meat with a large knife. Now, you can simply slice the soft melon into squares instead of cutting through the rind each time you slice the watermelon.
Make ahead instructions: To make ahead, you can prep the ingredients (cube the watermelon and cucumbers), and make the dressing. Store the salad ingredients in a separate airtight container from the dressing. When ready to serve, toss everything together. I would not recommend tossing together and storing before serving.
How to store: Watermelon feta salad tastes best fresh, within the first 1-2 hours of preparing it. If you do have leftovers, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Note that the longer you store, the soggier the salad can get.

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Baked Queso Chicken

Baked queso chicken is the easy, cheesy, delicious chicken dinner you've been looking for. Seared chicken breast is topped with sautéed onions and tomatoes and a generous amount of creamy queso. The best part? This flavorful tender chicken takes just 30 minutes to cook, which make it the perfect dish to make when you are short on time or energy. Hello new favorite weeknight dinner! Plus, it's seriously the best way to use up any leftover queso.

Why You'll Love Baked Queso Chicken

It's so easy to make. This chicken recipe is so easy to make, and one that is great for beginners to try too. a perfect one to try for beginners too. perfect for novice cooks. Whether you're feeding a whole family or just cooking for one or two, baked queso chicken will save you time and energy.
Simple ingredients. Not only is this an easy to dish to make, but you only need some simple ingredients including chicken, olive oil, tomatoes, onion, and queso. And if you have your spice rack stocked, then you likely won't have to run out to by any extra spices for the chicken marinade.
Seared and baked. For baked queso chicken, you'll need to sear your chicken in a cast-iron skillet before popping it in the oven. The combination of searing and baking adds deep flavor, gives the chicken a slightly charred texture, and ensures they are cooked through but not overcooked or dry. It's the perfect combo.

Ingredients

To make easy and delicious baked queso chicken, you will need the following ingredients (full measurements in recipe card below):

chicken breasts
chicken marinade - made with olive oil cumin, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, dried oregano (or Italian seasoning), salt, and pepper.
olive oil
onion
tomato
jalapeño - optional for extra spiciness.
queso - you can use homemade Mexican queso or store-bought, whichever is easier! I love making homemade queso and using leftovers for this dish.
fresh cilantro - for garnish.

How to Make the Best Baked Queso Chicken

Marinate the chicken. In a large ziploc bag, combine chicken breasts with 1 tablespoon olive oil and all seasoning including cumin, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, oregano, salt and pepper. Press air out of the bag and seal tightly. Press the seasoning around the chicken to coat. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes, up to overnight in the fridge.
Sear the chicken. When ready to cook, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon oil in a large cast-iron skillet for 2 minutes over medium-high heat until the hot oil sizzles. Sear the chicken breasts until nicely browned on both sides, about 4-5 minutes on each side. Once done, transfer onto a plate.
Sauté aromatics. In the same skillet, add onion and tomato and sauté until soft, about 2-3 minutes.
Assemble. Return the chicken to the skillet and top with sautéed onion and tomato. Spread queso sauce evenly over each chicken breast. (If you don't have a cast-iron skillet, use a 9x13-inch casserole pan).

Bake. Bake on the top rack of a 400F preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until fully cooked through and queso turns golden brown. The internal temperature for the chicken should reach 165F as read on a meat thermometer.
Serve. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with cilantro lime rice, crusty bread, or over pasta if desired.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

How to serve: Some people might be happy eating this baked queso chicken on its own, but others will want to pair it with something. You can serve this dish over cilantro lime rice, pasta, salad, potatoes, or your favorite vegetable side dish. You can also eat it with toasted bread or tortillas for major dunking into that delicious sauce. Another option is to shred the chicken after baking for an easy-to-spread chicken queso that you can eat with tortilla chips. So good!
How to store: Allow the chicken to cool to room temperature. Then, transfer into an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

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Macaroni Salad

Classic macaroni salad is a creamy and delicious pasta salad that is so easy to throw together. It's packed with fresh crunchy vegetables and is all tossed in a creamy sauce that holds it all together. It's the perfect side salad to bring to a summer potluck or BBQ, and it makes a great make-ahead lunch, too. In fact, prepare this macaroni salad a day or two ahead of time and let the flavors infuse together int he refrigerator (it actually tastes better the next day!).

Why You'll Love Macaroni Salad

It's perfect to meal prep. This might be the best make-ahead meal you'll have this week! It's an easy-to-follow recipe that is nearly impossible to mess up. Plus, you can completely customize it with other ingredients that you have on hand. No matter what, you'll end up with a delicious macaroni salad.
Beat the heat with a cold dish. Warm and sunny days are ahead, and cold dishes are the best to eat when it's hot out. This chilled macaroni salad will help you enjoy the warmth and fill up with healthy energy. It's what your summer cookouts have been missing.
Keeps you full. While some diets might shun carbs, glucose (aka carbs) is your brain's preferred source of energy. Combined with the healthy veggies in this macaroni salad, this pasta is wholesome, filling, and also packed with nutrients. Meaning, you don't need to go searching for something else to keep you full.

Ingredients and Substitutions

To make this delicious and easy classic macaroni salad, you will need the following ingredients:

elbow macaroni - you can substitute this with any short pasta.
red onion
red bell pepper
carrot
celery
pickle - try making your own homemade pickles in just 1-2 days, with NO canning!
mayonnaise
sour cream - or substitute with Greek yogurt.
white vinegar - or you can substitute this with apple cider vinegar.
sugar
Dijon mustard
garlic powder
salt and pepper

The best part is that this salad is completely customizable. If you prefer one ingredient over another, add more of it in. Some popular add-ins include: boiled eggs, ham, bacon, cherry tomtoes, and green peas.

How to Make the Best Macaroni Salad

Boil the pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente, about 8 minutes or according to package instructions. Drain and rinse pasta under cold water to stop the cooking process and to cool the pasta down.
Assemble the salad. In a large mixing bowl or serving, combine cooked pasta, red onion, bell pepper, carrot, celery, and pickle.
Add dressing. In a small mixing bowl, stir together mayonnaise, sour cream, vinegar, sugar, mustard, garlic powder, salt and pepper. Add dressing to salad and toss to combine.
Serve or chill. Serve immediately, or cover the bowl tightly with plastic cling wrap and refrigerator for at least 2 hours (or overnight for the best results). This will allow the flavors to really infuse into each other.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

How to serve: Serve classic macaroni salad as a side along your favorite summer grilled meats and corn on the cob. You can also serve it as a macaroni salad sandwich in between two slices of bread.
Make ahead instructions: Macaroni salad is great for meal prep. To prepare an easy meal on the go, pre-portion the macaroni salad into smaller meal prep containers that you can grab on your way out of the house.
How to store: Store macaroni salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
How to freeze: Store macaroni salad in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

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30 Best Shrimp Recipes

Are you wondering what to make for dinner tonight using shrimp or prawns? Then you have come to the right place. We are here to inspire you to cook something delicious using shrimp, with a round up of 30 of the best and most popular shrimp recipes that we have shared over the years including creamy shrimp, summery grilled shrimp, comforting shrimp pastas, better than takeout Asian dishes with shrimp, Mexican shrimp dishes, and more!

Garlic Shrimp Stir Fry

Garlic Shrimp Stir Fry

Better than takeout garlic shrimp stir fry is saucy, sticky, flavorful, and delicious. It's quick and easy to make in 15 minutes and great for meal prep.

More Shrimp Recipes

Creamy Garlic Shrimp

Creamy garlic shrimp is a delicious, quick and easy 15-minute meal (including prep!) that you need to include in your weeknight dinner meal plan.

Garlic Butter Shrimp

Garlic butter shrimp is a quick and easy dinner ready in just 10 minutes! It's loaded with flavor and perfect for busy weeknights and special occasions.

Easy Grilled Shrimp Boil

Easy, garlicky and buttery grilled shrimp boil with prawns, corn, baby potatoes and sausage, seasoned and tossed with parsley takes just 20 minutes to cook. Throw some whole potatoes on the grill too and serve this with some BBQ chicken stuffed baked potatoes.

Shrimp Taco Salad

Shrimp taco salad with cilantro lime dressing is flavourful, delicious, and easy to make. It has all the fixings and of shrimp tacos, but without the mess.

Grilled Cajun Shrimp Skewers

Juicy and tender grilled cajun shrimp skewers are garlicky, lemony, and packed with flavour with a cajun marinade. Ready in under 30 minutes including prep. Serve it with a fresh Mediterranean chickpea wedge salad on the side.

Shrimp Alfredo

Shrimp Alfredo is creamy, garlicky, and delicious! This quick and easy, under 30-minute recipe is a go-to for busy nights and a year-round family favorite.

Seafood Fried Rice

Quick and easy, one-pan, 10-minute seafood fried rice with tiger prawns is so much healthier, tastier and better than takeout. It's the easiest weeknight meal.

Shrimp Tacos with Lime Crema Slaw

Quick and easy shrimp tacos with lime crema slaw are ready in less than 30 minutes and are packed with flavourful crispy shrimp and creamy cabbage slaw.

Grilled Shrimp Salad

Grilled shrimp salad is a quick and easy, healthy summer meal that is loaded with fresh, flavorful ingredients, all tossed in an easy homemade dressing.

Creamy Shrimp Pasta with Sun-dried Tomatoes

Creamy shrimp pasta with sun-dried tomatoes is a delicious, quick and easy meal that takes just 20 minutes to prep and make. The perfect weeknight dinner.

Shrimp Fajitas

Shrimp fajitas are healthy, flavorful, and delicious. This one skillet recipe is loaded with shrimp and vegetables and is ready in just 20 minutes.

Tigers Prawns in Garlic Ginger Soy Sauce

10-minute tiger prawns in garlic ginger soy sauce is juicy, tender and immersed in incredible Asian flavours. It's the perfect weeknight meal.

Creamy Tuscan Shrimp

Creamy Tuscan shrimp packed with sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and garlic, is creamy, rich, and delicious. Make it in just 15 minutes, including prep!

Shrimp Egg Rolls

Better than takeout, shrimp egg rolls are a delicious, flavourful and easy appetizer to make. They can be deep fried, baked or air fried.

Air Fryer Mexican Shrimp

Air fryer Mexican shrimp is juicy, tender, fresh, and delicious. It's packed with classic Mexican flavors and ready in just 10 minutes. So quick and easy.

Garlic Shrimp Skewers

Garlic shrimp skewers are delicious and full of fresh flavor. These quick and easy kabobs can be grilled, baked or air fried for an easy summer dinner.

Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Pasta Bake

Creamy shrimp fettuccine alfredo pasta bake is garlicky, buttery, cheesy, loaded with shrimp + parsley and topped with mozzarella. Easy comfort food goals.

Baked Coconut Shrimp

Crispy baked coconut shrimp is a delicious appetizer that is easy to make in 30 minutes. They are more flavourful, tastier and healthier than takeout.

Shrimp Scampi with Zucchini Noodles

Shrimp scampi with zucchini noodles is filling, yet surprisingly light! Since we are using fresh zucchini noodles, you will feel no guilt in sopping up the sauce with an extra crusty piece of bread!

Vietnamese Salad Rolls with Peanut Dipping Sauce

Fresh, light and healthy Vietnamese salad rolls are packed with vermicelli noodles, shrimp, fresh vegetables and herbs and dipped in homemade peanut sauce.

Shrimp Cakes

Quick and easy shrimp cakes are juicy, tender, delicious, and flavorful. They're made simple with a food processor and your choice of three cooking methods.

Mediterranean Baked Shrimp Orzo

Mediterranean baked shrimp orzo is a complete wholesome one pot meal with delicious sautéed vegetables, juicy shrimp, and orzo pasta. Make it in 30 minutes.

Thai Red Curry Noodle Soup

This gluten-free, one pot Thai red curry noodle soup is so flavourful and packed with shrimp, vermicelli rice noodles, fresh herbs, lime juice, and fish sauce.

Shrimp Avocado Tostadas

Shrimp avocado tostadas are a delicious, crunchy, quick and easy Mexican dish you can make in just 15 minutes, loaded with the best combination of toppings.

Air Fryer Jumbo Shrimp

10-minute air fryer jumbo shrimp is juicy and tender on the inside, and crispy on the outside. It's so flavourful and garlicky with Asian seasonings.

Pan-Fried Pork and Shrimp Wontons

Better than takeout pan-fried pork and shrimp wontons are so crispy outside and tender and juicy inside with a savoury pork, shrimp and vegetable filling.

Stir-Fried Rice Cakes with Shrimp

Better than takeout, stir-fried rice cakes with shrimp, bok choy, and bean sprouts in a delicious peanut butter sauce is a quick 10-minute one pan meal.

Thai Coconut Red Curry with Prawns

Better than takeout, Thai coconut red curry with prawns is easy, quick, and full of so much flavour! Cook this perfect weeknight dinner in just 15 minutes!

Pan-fried Garlic Prawns with Soy Sauce

Quick and easy, pan-fried garlic prawns with soy sauce, garlic, and green onions is a simple but flavourful Chinese stir-fry made in under 15 minutes.

Chicken and Shrimp Dumplings

Easy to make chicken and shrimp dumplings can be steamed, boiled or fried and served with a side of soy sauce for dipping.

Easy to make chicken and shrimp dumpings can be steamed, boiled or fried and served with a side of soy sauce for dipping! | aheadofthyme.com

How to Store Cooked Shrimp

Store any of these easy shrimp recipes in an airtight container and place in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Some of these recipes are also freezer-friendly and can also be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Depending on the recipe, you can reheat in the air fryer at 300F for 5-10 minutes, in the oven at 300F for 10 minutes, or on the stove over medium heat until fully warmed through. Refer to the specific recipe post for full storing and reheating instructions.

Did You Make Any of These Shrimp Recipes?

Please leave a comment and rating below, and let me know what you thought of this round up of the best shrimp recipes. Be sure to snap a picture and tag me on Instagram @aheadofthyme or share it on the Pinterest pin so that I can follow along.

HUNGRY FOR MORE? Don't forget to sign up for my email newsletter so that you don't miss any recipes. You can also follow along on Instagram and Pinterest for more recipe updates.

Homemade Pickles

Homemade pickles are easy to make at home in just 5 minutes with no canning required. Plus, they are ready to eat in just 1 to 2 days! Making homemade pickles is easier than you might think, and the best part is that you can adjust the ingredients to make pickles that are perfect for you. Add them to your favorite burgers, sandwiches, salads, or any meal that needs that extra crunch.

Why You'll Love Homemade Pickles

Sweet, savory, and delicious. There are so many phenomenal flavors in homemade pickles that come from just a few simple ingredients. The combination of vinegar, sugar, salt, and unique seasonings brings out the best in these pickled cucumbers.
Homemade pickles are customizable. Pickles from the grocery store will do the job, but there are limitations. Is there something you don't love about this recipe? Then change it! Experimenting with homemade pickles is one of the most exciting parts of pickling your own vegetables. Add more sugar for a sweeter taste, or add more red pepper flakes for a stronger kick of heat. Don't be afraid to get creative!
They taste fresh. You may not associate the word fresh with pickled vegetables, but these homemade pickles have something no store-bought pickle has. Freshness. You'll have to try them to know what I mean.

Ingredients

To make easy homemade pickles, you will need the following ingredients.

Persian cucumbers - I like to use Persian cucumbers but any small pickling cucumber will work.
garlic
dill
red onion
white vinegar
peppercorns
crushed red pepper flakes - optional, for a spicy kick.
yellow mustard seeds - optional.
granulated sugar
salt - any kind of salt will work. I prefer kosher or canning salt for the best results. You could also use table salt, but it can make the brine appear more cloudy or discolored.

You will also need jar with a tight fitting lid such as a mason jar.

How to Make the Best Homemade Pickles

Prepare the cucumbers. In a clean mason jar, add cucumbers, garlic, dill, and red onion. You can pack the cucumbers up to the top of the jar.
Make the brine. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk to combine vinegar, spices and seasoning until dissolved. You can also boil the brine (vinegar mixture) and cool it down to help the seasoning dissolve better.
Ferment. Carefully fill the jar with the brine (vinegar mixture), leaving about ½-inch from the top. Close the lid tightly and refrigerate for 1-2 days for fermentation.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

How to get crispy and crunchy pickles: You can prepare these pickles either sliced or whole. When sliced, the pickles will have a stronger flavour because they will absorb more of the brine. If using whole pickles, you will get a stronger and satisfying crunch that pickle-lovers seek out. Use cucumbers that are small, firm, and fresh.
How long homemade pickles last: Homemade pickles will keep in the mason jar in the refrigerator for up to two months. If you want to extend their lifespan, avoid contaminating the jar with dirty cutlery or avoid dipping your fingers into the jar.

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Creamy Shrimp Pasta with Sun-dried Tomatoes

Creamy shrimp pasta with sun-dried tomatoes is a delicious, quick and easy meal that takes just 20 minutes to prep and make. Spaghetti noodles are tossed in a thick and creamy sauce packed with shrimp and sun-dried tomatoes. It's rich, silky, and so so good. Seafood pasta has seriously never tasted so good. It's the perfect meal to serve for lunch on the patio, on busy weeknights, or a fancy dinner to impress your guests.

Why You'll Love Creamy Shrimp Pasta with Sun-dried Tomatoes

Simple and delicious. The natural flavors of the shrimp combined with fresh spinach, fragrant basil and garlic, nutty Parmesan, and sun-dried tomatoes yields a decadent restaurant-quality plate of seafood pasta.
Quick and easy. Who knew something that tastes so good could be created in less than 15 minutes? This creamy shrimp pasta with sun-dried tomatoes is nearly effortless, and anyone can make it (espeically beginner cookes)
Total comfort food goals. Each bite of spaghetti noodles is coated with the thickest and creamiest sauce for major comfort all around.

Ingredients

To make this delicious and creamy shrimp pasta with sun-dried tomatoes, you will need the following ingredients (full quantities in recipe card below):

pasta - I like to use a thin long noodle for this creamy pasta dish such as spaghetti, linguine, and fettuccine, but any type of pasta will work.
olive oil
shrimp, peeled and deveined
salt and pepper
butter
garlic
sun-dried tomatoes - In contrast to fresh tomatoes, the sun-dried version provides an intense taste of sweetness and tartness.
all-purpose flour - helps to thicken the sauce.
heavy cream
Parmesan cheese, grated
baby spinach
fresh basil

You will also need a large pot and a skillet (I used my cast-iron skillet).

How to Make the Best Creamy Shrimp Pasta with Sun-dried Tomatoes

Boil the pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over medium-high heat. Add spaghetti noodles and cook until al dente (fully cooked but still firm) according to package directions, about 10 minutes. Drain well in a colander and set aside. Toss in some olive oil to keep the pasta from sticking together.
Sear the shrimp. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium high heat for 2 minutes until the hot oil is sizzling hot. Add shrimp and season with salt and pepper. Sauté for 5 minutes until the shrimp becomes nicely browned on both sides. Set aside on a plate.
Sauté aromatics. In the same skillet, add butter, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in flour and mix until well combined.
Make the creamy sauce. Add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Stir well and bring the sauce to a simmer. Reduce the heat to medium and keep stirring until thickened to a desired consistency. Stir in spinach and cook until softened, about 1 minute.
Toss and serve. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss well to coat. Add in cooked spaghetti and toss well to combine. Sprinkle fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese on top and drizzle with olive oil if desired.

Storing and Reheating Instructions

How to store: Allow the pasta to cool completely before storing. Then, transfer to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
How to reheat on the stovetop: Reheat leftover pasta on the stovetop in a shallow saucepan over low heat until warmed through, about 5 or so minutes. You may need to add additional water if the sauce gets too thick while reheating.
How to reheat on the microwave: You can also reheat creamy shrimp pasta covered in a microwave-safe container in the microwave. Heat in 20-second intervals, frequently stirring until heated all the way through.

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Moist Vanilla Cupcakes

Vanilla cupcakes with buttercream frosting are a classic treat that never gets old, but once you've tried soft and fluffy, moist vanilla cupcakes, you really can't go back. These decadent treats are simple, sweet, and delicious. The easy batter takes just 10 minutes to whip up and has a secret ingredient (yogurt!) to keep them super fluffy and moist for days! Perfect for holidays, birthday celebrations, or just whenever you are craving something sweet.

Why You'll Love Moist Vanilla Cupcakes

Moist, cakey texture. With a carefully balanced texture, these moist vanilla cupcakes will melt in your mouth. They are the perfect combination of fluffy, soft, and moist. They are filling but not too dense-which is exactly how you want your cupcakes.
Simple ingredients. This recipe requires a few basic pantry and refrigerator staples. We are talking flour, baking powder, butter, and eggs, just to name a few. So if you like to bake, you will likely already have most (if not all) of these ingredients at home.
Easy Buttercream. The delicious icing on the cake (vanilla buttercream) takes literally 5 minutes to whip up. You could also frost these with Chocolate Buttercream or Nutella Buttercream instead, or leave them unfrosted.
Easy cleanup, now and later. Cupcakes are the perfect celebratory treat because they make for easy cleanup. There are only so many dishes required when prepping and baking, and once it's time to eat, you don't need to cut a thing. How convenient!

Ingredients

To make these delicious moist vanilla cupcakes, you will need the following ingredients:

all-purpose flour
baking powder
cornstarch
salt
butter
sugar
eggs
vanilla extract - Be sure to use high-quality vanilla extract since that's the star of the show.
plain yogurt - this is secret ingredient that makes these vanilla cupcakes moist and soft. I used whole fat plain yogurt but Greek yogurt or sour cream also works well as a substitute.
whole milk

You will also need measuring cups and spoons, mixing bowls, stand mixer or hand mixer, 12-tin muffin pan, piping bags, and a no. 2D decorating tip.

How to Make the Best Moist Vanilla Cupcakes

Combine dry ingredients. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder and salt. Set aside.
Combine wet ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer with the paddle attachment to cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Add eggs, one at a time, and beat until incorporated. Add vanilla and yogurt, beating until combined.
Incorporate ingredients together. Add one-third of the dry ingredients and beat until just combined. Then, add half of the milk, and beat until just combined. Repeat, until you end with the dry ingredients. Scrape down the bowl as needed and beat until just combined and smooth. Do not overmix. The batter will be thick.
Divide the batter. Use a medium cookie scoop to scoop up the batter and divide in into a 12-tin muffin pan lined with cupcake liners, filling the liners ⅔ full with batter.
Bake. Bake in a 350 F preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cupcake comes out clean. Allow the cupcakes to cool in the muffin pan for 5 minutes, then transfer into a wire cooling rack to cool completely before icing.

How to Make Vanilla Buttercream and Decorate

Homemade vanilla buttercream is so quick and easy to make, taking just 5 minutes. First, in a large mixing bowl, beat the butter in a large mixing bowl using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed until creamy, about 2 minutes. Then, add vanilla and beat until light and fluffy. Add in confectioners' sugar (one cup at a time), and beat until incorporated. Add milk and beat until light and fluffy. Add more milk if the buttercream is too thick, add more confectioners' sugar if the buttercream is too thin. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth until you are ready to use the icing to prevent it from drying out.

To frost the cupcakes, use a couplers to secure a no. 2D decorating tip onto a piping bag. Fill the bag with icing and pipe the icing onto each cupcake starting at the edges and move in an overlapping circular motion until you reach the center and gently lift up. You could also add some sprinkles on top, if desired.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Room temperature ingredients will result in a room temperature batter and ensure even baking. If your batter is too cold, the cupcakes may not bake evenly.
Substitutions: Missing something? Get creative-but not too creative. When baking, the ingredients work together. Some things you can substitute and adjust for are:
- using salted butter and reducing the amount of salt slightly,
- using flavored or sweetened yogurt and reducing the amount of sugar.
How to store: Allow the vanilla cupcakes to cool completely, then store them at room temperature inside an airtight container unfrosted. This will give the best results with the best texture because because cooler temperatures will dry out your cupcakes. If you've already frosted them, they'll need to go in the fridge. Eat them up within four days.
How to freeze. You can freeze these cupcakes either before or after icing.
- Before frosting: You can freeze unfrosted chocolate cupcakes by wrapping them tightly with plastic cling wrap, and then placing them in an airtight container and freezing for up to 3 months.
- After frosting: Place frosted cupcakes on a baking tray and freeze until hard, about 1 hour. Then wrap them tightly in plastic cling wrap, and then place in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.
- To serve: Allow them to completely thaw overnight in the refrigerator, or for a few hours at room temperature, before icing or serving.

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Classic Coleslaw

This classic coleslaw salad is a must-have recipe for your summer plans. Whether you need a side dish to bring to a family barbecue or picnic, or an easy make ahead lunch to pack for work or for a potluck, classic coleslaw brings a fresh, crisp, and creamy game-changer to the table. Thrown together in less than 10 minutes, this classic coleslaw consists of only three simple ingredients plus a creamy and delicious dressing that ties it all together. Pair with meats, throw it on tacos, or eat it on its own: classic coleslaw is as versatile as it is delicious.

Why You'll Love Classic Coleslaw

Crisp, fresh vegetables. Purple cabbage, green cabbage, and carrots bring a healthy crunch to your coleslaw. The vinegar in the dressing helps soften the veggies just enough to create the perfect texture. It's a match made in food heaven.
The blend of bright colors. Colesaw is not only delicious, but it is pretty to look at. Vibrant purple, green, and orange colors are typical in classic coleslaw, making it just as tasty as it is attractive.
Quick and easy last-minute recipe. This salad takes just 10 minutes to make (most of the time goes into prep to shred those veggies). Which means it's the ideal starter to munch on when dinner (or you) is running late!

Ingredients

To make easy and delicious classic coleslaw, you will need the following ingredients:

green cabbage - you could also substitute this with broccoli stems.
purple cabbage
carrot
mayonnaise
vinegar - I used white vinegar and apple cider vinegar for the best results. You would substitute the apple cider vinegar with a squeeze of lemon juice for a similar acidity.
sugar - a little sugar to balance out the acidity in the vinegars. You could choose to leave this out if you please.
celery seeds - celery seeds are small seeds that look similar in size to poppy seeds. They are a classic ingredient in coleslaw that gives it that slightly bitter taste that is so distinct in coleslaw.
salt and pepper - to taste.

You will also need a cheese grater or mandoline slicer with cut resistant gloves to shred the vegetables. Or, to make things even easier and faster, you can use a 14 ounce coleslaw mix instead of shredding the vegetables yourself.

How to Make the Best Classic Coleslaw

Combine salad ingredients. In a large serving bowl, combine cabbage, purple cabbage, and carrot.
Toss with dressing. In a small mixing bowl, mix together mayonnaise, vinegars, sugar, celery seeds, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine. Add dressing to the salad and toss to combine.
Serve. Serve immediately, or refrigerator for one hour to allow the flavors to infuse into each other more. Add more salt and pepper if desired, to taste.

Coleslaw for Pulled Pork

We love serving this coleslaw with Pulled Pork in a sandwich. Coleslaw is one of those salads that goes well with anything. Some of our favorite classic BBQ dishes to serve this with all summer long are:

Recipe Tips and Tricks

How to store: Homemade coleslaw is best eaten fresh within a day or two, and here's why. Over time, the vinegar will continue to soften the veggies, and the dressing can become watery. So, although it will last in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-5 days, it tastes best the day of or day after it's made.
How to shred cabbage and carrots for coleslaw: To easily shred cabbage, simply cut the head of the cabbage in half, then finely slice each side with a chef's knife. The best way to shred your carrots is with a cheese grater.
How to customize: Everyone has different preferences when it comes to their coleslaw. You might like yours a bit sweeter (or spicier!), so don't be afraid to adjust the dressing to your taste.

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60 Easy Vegetarian Dinner Recipes

Wondering what to make for dinner when you are craving something vegetarian? Whether you are a vegetarian looking for an easy weeknight dinner idea, or a meat-lover looking for a plant-based recipe to make for Meatless Monday, you have come to the right place. We have rounded up over 60 of the most popular and best easy vegetarian dinner recipes including vegetarian pastas, high protein vegetarian dinners, wholesome stuffed vegetables, hearty vegetarian soups, better than takeout Chinese vegetarian dinner ideas, vegan dinners, and more!

Best Vegetarian Dinners

Eggplant Parmesan

Eggplant Parmesan is a vegetarian Italian dish made featuring tender eggplant slices coated in crispy breadcrumbs, melty cheese, and baked in tomato sauce.

Falafel

Homemade falafel are delicious, golden brown and crispy on the outside, fluffy tender and soft inside. Plus, they're vegan, loaded with plant-based protein. One of my favorite vegetarian meals.

Pesto Penne Pasta

Quick and easy pesto penne pasta is a simple and light Italian pasta dish made with just five ingredients in under 15 minutes but with maximum flavor. The easiest dinner perfect for busy weeknights.

20-Minute One Pot Lentils

Easy 20-minute one pot lentils is vegan, gluten-free, and packed with protein. It's immune boosting properties makes it the perfect comfort food. It's one of the best vegan dinners.

Vegan Stuffed Peppers

Easy vegan stuffed bell peppers are filled with brown rice, mushrooms, veggies, and seasonings, then baked for 40 minutes. It's a perfect weeknight dinner.

Minestrone Soup

Minestrone soup is a hearty, healthy, nourishing, and delicious classic Italian soup, packed with vegetables and pasta simmered in a rich tomato broth.

Tofu and Mushroom Stir Fry

Quick, easy, and simple, vegan tofu and mushroom stir fry is a delicious meal that is ready in under 15 minutes. Serve it over a bowl of steamed rice.

Potato and Cheese Perogies

Homemade Potato and Cheese Perogies are comforting, delicious, and satisfying. These cheddar pierogi from scratch as easier to make than you think!

Cauliflower Tacos

Vegetarian cauliflower tacos are loaded with air-fried or baked cauliflower, a delicious seasoning blend, and creamy lime cilantro slaw inside a tortilla.

Vegetarian Bolognese

This Vegetarian Bolognese is a quick and easy vegetable-packed pasta with the flavor, texture, and goodness of a traditional Bolognese without the meat.

Stuffed Eggplant

This Mediterranean Stuffed Eggplant is delicious, filling, and healthy. This vegetarian dinner is loaded with veggies and topped with bubbly cheese.

Thai Sweet Potato Yellow Curry

Sweet Potato Yellow Curry is a flavorful and delicious vegetarian dish that is quick and easy to make any day of the week in under 30 minutes.

Skillet Neapolitan Margherita Pizza

Quick and easy skillet Neapolitan margherita pizza has an iconic thin and soft crust with a perfectly crisp exterior, and simple and fresh toppings.

Baked Gnocchi

Cheesy Baked Gnocchi is quick and easy comfort food made all in one pot with chewy bites of gnocchi, a simple tomato-based sauce, and gooey melty cheese.

Lo Mein Noodles

Say goodbye to takeout and make easy Lo Mein Noodles at home, packed with fresh veggies and healthy ingredients, in less than 15 minutes!

Creamy Parmesan (No Wine) Risotto

Creamy Parmesan (No Wine) Risotto is a rich, creamy, and comforting classic Italian dish that may be intimidating but is actually quick and easy to make.

Sheet Pan Quesadillas

These Sheet Pan Quesadillas are loaded with veggies and gooey cheese, baked in the oven until crispy, and made to feed a crowd in just 30 minutes.

High Protein Vegetarian Recipes

Black Bean Burgers

Homemade vegetarian black bean burgers are thick, hearty, flavorful, and delicious. They are easy to make with the best texture (no mushy burgers here!).

Lentil Stew

Lentil Stew is a hearty and filling vegan meal loaded with vegetables like carrots and potatoes. This well seasoned vegetarian stew is ready in 45 minutes.

Vegan Chickpea Tacos

When it comes to vegetarian tacos, these vegan chickpea tacos are some of the best. They are delicious, filling, easy to make, and loved by all.

Butternut Squash Curry with Chickpeas

Butternut squash curry with chickpeas is a rich hearty one pot meal that will satisfy your fall comfort food cravings. Great for weeknight family dinners.

Vegetarian Quesadillas

Vegetarian quesadillas are quick and easy, completely customizable, loaded with veggies and beans. Serve this kid-friendly Mexican meal for lunch or dinner.

Chickpea Greek Salad

Chickpea Greek salad is a fresh, healthy, vibrant, and colorful salad, packed with traditional Mediterranean ingredients, superfoods, and nutrients.

Vegetarian Chili

Easy one pot vegetarian chili is the perfect warm and cozy comfort meal - it's hearty, filling, wholesome, flavorful, delicious, and loaded with protein.

Lentil Meatballs

Homemade Lentil Meatballs are made with a satisfying mixture of simple ingredients for a perfect vegetarian dinner. Ready in just over 30 minutes!

Quinoa Spinach Salad

Quinoa Spinach Power Salad is made with tender quinoa, tomatoes, cucumbers, and raisins dressed in a homemade lemon vinaigrette. Gluten-free and vegan too.

Curried Chickpea Stuffed Acorn Squash

Wholesome, hearty, curried chickpea stuffed acorn squash with curry flavours is the perfect vegan and gluten-free fall comfort food for your holiday dinner.

One Pot Red Kidney Beans

One Pot Red Kidney Beans are vegan, healthy, hearty, nourishing, and packed with plant-based protein. The perfect recipe for your dried kidney bean stash!

Stuffed Vegetables for Dinner

Stuffed Butternut Squash with Wild Rice

Healthy hearty and wholesome stuffed butternut squash with wild rice and mushrooms is an easy cozy vegetarian fall dinner or side. The best comfort food.

Vegetarian Stuffed Mushrooms

Vegetarian stuffed mushrooms are a delicious, flavorful, healthy, and nutritious appetizer. Plus, quick and easy to make in under 30 minutes including prep!

Baked Zucchini Boats with Marinara and Cheese

Baked zucchini with marinara and melted cheese is so quick and easy to make. It's vegetarian, gluten free, and packed with flavour. It's basically pizza but on a zucchini.

Cheesy Baked Zucchini with Marinara will save your weeknight dinner routine (and the kids love it too!). It's low carb, vegetarian, gluten-free, and keto. | aheadofthyme.com

Vegetarian Pasta Dinner Ideas

Tagliatelle Pasta

Creamy Mushroom Tagliatelle Pasta is a quick and easy, restaurant-worthy vegetarian dinner that is ready in just 30 minutes! Elevated comfort food at home.

Farfalle Pasta with Mushroom Rose Sauce

Farfalle pasta with mushroom rose sauce is creamy yet light, delicious and flavorful, and quick and easy to make in 20 minutes. Best comfort food dinner!

Stovetop Mac and Cheese with White Cheddar

Quick and easy, creamy stovetop mac and cheese with white cheddar is a delicious and comforting one pot 20-minute meal packed with three types of cheese.

Mediterranean Orzo Pasta Salad

Quick and easy Mediterranean orzo pasta salad packed with fresh vegetables and herbs is tossed in a Greek lemon vinaigrette. Healthy, light and delicious.

Mascarpone Pesto Pasta

Quick and easy mascarpone pesto pasta is the tastiest creamy pasta dish you'll ever make in under 15 minutes. It's the best weeknight dinner.

Spring Pesto Pasta with Asparagus

Spring pesto pasta with asparagus and chives is light and made with simple ingredients in under 20 minutes. Serve it hot for dinner or cold as pasta salad.

Cacio e Pepe

Cacio e pepe is a simple, authentic Italian pasta dish made with just four ingredients in 20 minutes. It's delicious, flavourful and easy to make.

Vegetarian Lasagna with Spinach

This Vegetarian Lasagna with Spinach is creamy, cheesy, and delicious. This classic Italian dish gets a meatless upgrade in this vegetarian version.

Creamy Tomato Pasta

This Creamy Tomato Pasta is a simple and delicious meal made from scratch in 25 minutes with a cream and tomato based sauce that is rich and silky smooth.

Baked Mac and Cheese

Classic baked mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food - creamy, cheesy, and cozy, topped with a crunchy breadcrumb topping. It's quick and easy too.

Avocado Basil Pesto Spaghetti

This easy 10-minute vegan light and creamy avocado basil pesto spaghetti is loaded with avocado, basil, walnuts, garlic, olive oil and lemon juice.

Spaghetti Alfredo with Spinach and Mushrooms

10-minute creamy spaghetti alfredo with spinach, mushrooms and tomatoes is tossed in a smooth buttery and garlicky alfredo sauce with fresh parsley.

Hearty Vegetarian Soups for Dinner

Vegetarian Mushroom Barley Soup

Wholesome hearty vegetarian mushroom barley soup is healthy, filling, and so delicious. This one pot meal is easy to make with just 10 minutes of prep.

Creamy Mexican Corn Soup

This vegetarian, hearty and filling, creamy Mexican corn soup is dense, bright, and full of flavour! It has all the warm and cozy vibes written all over it. Serve it with some butternut squash quesadillas.

Light Cream of Broccoli Soup

Delicious and flavourful, light cream of broccoli soup is a silky smooth, creamy, and thick soup made healthier with no cream. Make it in under 25 minutes.

Coconut Curry Lentil Soup

Indian-inspired, vegan, creamy coconut curry lentil soup is an easy and simple 30-minute pantry meal that is packed with spices for maximum flavour. Serve it as a soup or as a curry over some coconut rice.

Quick and Easy Vegetarian Ramen

Put down that cup of instant noodles and make fresh, quick and easy Vegetarian Ramen in minutes with fresh vegetables, noodles and authentic umami flavours.

Sweet Potato Soup

One pot sweet potato soup is super silky, creamy and vegan, and packed with fall flavours. Make this quick and easy fall and winter soup in 30 minutes. Serve with some rosemary cornbread or pumpkin dinner rolls on the side.

Roasted Butternut and Cauliflower Soup

Creamy roasted butternut squash and cauliflower soup has all the fall soup feels and is vegan and gluten-free. Plus, it's super easy to make the roasted cauliflower and butternut squash in a sheet pan and then puree. Serve it with some quick and easy green onion dinner rolls or skillet dinner rolls.

Creamy roasted butternut squash and cauliflower soup has all the fall feels and is vegan and gluten-free. Plus, it's super easy to make in a sheet pan. | aheadofthyme.com

Vegetarian Peanut Miso Ramen

Vegetarian peanut miso ramen with a creamy vegan soup base, is topped with noodles, vegetables, and a perfect soft-boiled egg. Make it in just 20 minutes.

Instant Pot Butternut Squash Soup

Instant pot butternut squash soup is the perfect fall dish to cook in your pressure cooker - warm, cozy, comforting, and creamy. Make in 15 minutes.

Better than Takeout Vegetarian Recipes

Vegan Soba Noodle Salad

There's nothing better on a hot day than a cold and refreshing vegan soba noodle salad, tossed with fresh vegetables and a delicious saucy dressing.

Vegetarian Fried Rice

Say goodbye to takeout and make flavourful, Chinese restaurant-style vegetarian fried rice at home in 10 minutes, with fully customizable ingredients.

Vegetarian Chow Mein

Better than takeout, quick easy stir-fried vegetarian chow mein is packed with vegetables and coated in a delicious savoury soy sauce. Make it in 15 minutes.

Vegetable Stir Fry

Quick and easy spring vegetable stir fry is made with delicious seasonal vegetables, packed with savoury and salty flavour, and takes 10 minutes to cook.

Stir-fried Rice Noodle Rolls with Peanut Butter Sauce

Better than takeout, quick and easy one pan stir-fried rice noodle rolls with peanut butter sauce is the best weeknight stir fry, ready in under 10 minutes.

Scallion Oil Noodles

Shanghai scallion oil noodles (葱油拌面) is a flavourful, simple noodle dish that is easy to make homemade with 6 ingredients in under 10 minutes.

Air Fryer Vegetable Stir Fry with Tofu

Simple air fryer spring vegetable "stir-fry" with tofu is the ultimate easy dinner ready in less than 10 minutes. It's healthy, vegan and gluten-free.

Cold Noodles with Peanut Butter Sauce

Easy vegan Shanghai style cold noodles tossed in peanut butter sauce with fresh vegetables and Asian seasonings, are flavourful and ready in 10 minutes.

Crispy Fried Vegetarian Spring Rolls

Better than takeout, light and crispy fried vegetarian spring rolls are packed with a tender mushroom and cabbage vegetarian filling in a crunchy skin.

Shanghai Style Vegetarian Steamed Buns

Homemade Shanghai style vegetarian steamed buns is spongy with a juicy, flavourful bok choy and mushroom filling inside bursting with Asian flavours.

Vegetarian Pizza and Sandwiches

Roasted Broccoli Grilled Cheese

Take your grilled cheese game to the next level with Roasted Broccoli Grilled Cheese Sandwich made with broccoli, red peppers, cheddar, and mozzarella.

Garlic Mushroom Focaccia Pizza

Sheet pan garlic mushroom focaccia pizza with a thick pillowy and crispy crust is topped with sautéed garlic mushrooms, melty mozzarella and lots of basil.

Egg Salad Sandwich

The best egg salad sandwich is a quick and easy picnic classic loaded with perfect hard-boiled eggs, mayonnaise, a touch of dijon mustard and green onions.

Mushroom and Arugula Skillet Pizza

Easy and delicious homemade mushroom and arugula skillet pizza with a perfectly crispy pizza crust is topped with mushrooms, arugula, and mozzarella cheese.

Easy Tomato Bruschetta with Balsamic Glaze

Tomato bruschetta with balsamic glaze is an easy Italian appetizer topped with tomatoes, onions, garlic, basil and olive oil. Delicious, fresh and simple. The perfect light Super Bowl recipe.

Greek Salad Hummus Flatbread

This bright and colourful Greek salad hummus flatbread is perfect as an appetizer or a healthy lunch or snack.

Classic Roman Herbed Potato Pizza

Easy and simple yet flavourful classic Roman herbed potato pizza has a crispy thin crust with layers of tender potato tossed in olive oil and herbs.

Vegetarian Breakfast for Dinner

Spinach and Feta Quiche with Cauliflower Crust

Spinach and feta quiche is healthy and gluten-free with a keto cauliflower crust and savoury vegetarian filling. Serve for breakfast, lunch or dinner.

Potato Galette with Arugula and Crème Fraîche

Potato galette with arugula and crème fraîche is a rich, light, and delicious savoury tart to serve for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. A total crowd-pleaser.

Vegetable Frittata

Vegetable frittata is a delicious breakfast or served at any time of the day. It's a one-pan meal that starts on the stove and moves to the oven. Totally customizable with your favourite veggies.

Shakshuka

Shakshuka is a quick and easy, one-pan Middle Eastern classic with a savory saucy tomato-vegetable base and perfectly poached eggs on top.

Caprese Frittata

Caprese Frittata is light and fluffy, laced with fresh basil and topped with melted mozzarella cheese and blistered balsamic tomatoes. Ready in 10 minutes!

Egg and Potato Casserole

Whether you are feeding your own family or entertaining a large number of guests, this vegetarian egg and potato breakfast casserole is a huge hit at brunch.

Tomato and Mozzarella Tart

Looking for the perfect appetizer or light lunch? Try a tomato and mozzarella tart topped with basil and a drizzle of pomegranate molasses!

Make Ahead Tips for Vegetarian Dinners

Make ahead instructions. You can make many of these vegetarian dinners ahead of time and store in the refrigerator for a few days or even in the freezer for up to 3 months. You can also prep the ingredients in advance and store in the refrigerator until ready to use.
How to store: Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator or possible even in the freezer. Check the individual recipe for complete storing instructions and to see if the recipe is freezer-friendly.
How to reheat: Most of the leftovers can be reheated on the stovetop over medium to low heat for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through, in the air fryer or the oven at 300F for 10-15 minutes until warmed through, or in the microwave in 20-second increments until warmed through. If heating from frozen, let it thaw first and then reheat.

Did You Make Any of These Easy Vegetarian Dinner Recipes?

Please leave a comment and rating below, and let me know what you thought of this round up of these easy vegetarian dinner ideas. Be sure to snap a picture and tag me on Instagram @aheadofthyme or share it on the Pinterest pin so that I can follow along.

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Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry

Beef and broccoli stir fry is a classic Chinese-American dish that is delicious, savory, and saucy. Tender and juicy beef is stir-fried with broccoli, smothered in a delicious velvety signature sauce packed with Asian flavors, and seasoned with fresh garlic and ginger. This hearty meal is total comfort food that is so much better and faster than ordering takeout. It's an easy weeknight family dinner that you can make in just 25 minutes.

Why You'll Love Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry

Super quick and easy. This stir-fry takes just 10 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook. It takes faster to make this than to order takeout and wait for your delivery to arrive. Plus, with a recipe this easy, it's perfect for beginner home cooks and advanced cooks alike.
Better than takeout. With a home cooked recipe, you can feel good about knowing exactly what ingredients are going into your meals. Most Chinese beef and broccoli dishes that you order from a restaurant will contain MSG and sugar. Here, there is no MSG or sugar, plus you can opt for high-quality ingredients if you desire.
Packed with nutrients. Broccoli is an excellent source of fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals (like iron, potassium, magnesium, and calcium). And the beef ensures you're getting all your meat-based protein too. This is a meal you will feel good about feeding to your family.

Ingredients

To make this easy and delicious beef and broccoli stir fry, you will need the following ingredients:

beef - the beef is thinly sliced into 1-inch slices. I would recommend using beef flank steak or top sirloin steak.
beef marinade - marinade the beef with a rub made out of ground black pepper, soy sauce, Shaoxing cooking wine (or mirin), cornstarch (or all-purpose flour), and olive oil.
garlic
ginger
soy sauce
vinegar
sugar
cornstarch - this thickens up the sauce. You can also replace it with all-purpose flour if you don't have any cornstarch on hand.
sesame oil - this is optional but really takes the sauce to another level in terms of flavor. I highly recommend using sesame oil.
olive oil - for the stir fry. You can replace this with any vegetable oil as well.
broccoli florets
white sesame seeds - to garnish on top when serving.

You will also need mixing bowls, measuring spoons, and a large wok or skillet (I used my cast-iron skillet).

How to Make the Best Chinese Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry

Marinate the beef. In a medium mixing bowl, combine beef with pepper, soy sauce, cooking wine, cornstarch and oil until evenly coated. Set the beef aside, allowing it to marinate for at least 10 minutes.
Stir fry the beef. Heat oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat for 2 minutes until the hot oil sizzles. Add in the marinated beef and stir fry until nicely browned on all sides, about 3-4 minutes. Add garlic and ginger. Sauté together until fragrant, about 1 minute. Transfer the beef mixture to a plate.
Make the sauce. In another bowl, whisk together all the sauce ingredients until the sugar and cornstarch is fully dissolved. Set aside.
Cook the broccoli. In the same skillet over medium-high heat, add the remaining 1 tablespoon oil, broccoli and the sauce mixture. Cover the lid and let the broccoli simmer in the sauce until tender, about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. The broccoli should be crunchy tender but still green.
Assemble the stir fry. Return the beef to the skillet and stir well to combine. Cook for another minute until evenly coated with thickened sauce. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top and serve immediately with steamed rice or fried rice.

Storing Instructions

How to store: Beef and broccoli stir-fry can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in a covered pot or airtight container. It can also be frozen in an airtight container or freezer bag to extend its shelf life by 3 months.
How to reheat: Reheat any leftovers by heating some oil into a large wok or skillet on medium heat, and stir-frying for about 5 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat the dish in the microwave in 20-second increments until warmed through.

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Mexican Pulled Pork Tacos (Carnitas)

If you're looking for an easy and delicious slow cooker recipe, you've found the one: Mexican pulled pork tacos. Juicy and tender traditional Mexican carnitas are wrapped in corn tortillas, and topped with fresh onions, cilantro, and jalapeños. They are flavorful, savory, and a little spicy. Host a fiesta with a self-serve taco bar for friends and family to make their own tacos, and you'll see just how popular these slow cooker pulled pork tacos are. They are a total crowd pleaser that will disappear fast!

Why You'll Love Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Tacos (Carnitas)

Carnitas are a Mexican favorite. Carnitas, or slow cooker pulled pork, are a classic Mexican recipe that are often used in tacos, but they are also great to enjoy in other ways. If you have any leftover carnitas, you can eat it alone with Cilantro Lime Rice and beans, or use it as a filling in Burritos or a topping for Tostadas. great in tacos.
The perfect combination of ingredients. The savory, tender pulled pork finds balance inside a tortilla when it meets fresh ingredients like onions, cilantro, and sour cream. Fresh jalapeños add a spicy kick if you can handle it, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice just finishes off these tacos so well.
The slow cooker adds incredible depth of flavor. Mexican Ground Beef Tacos are a simple classic which can be whipped up in no time, but if you have some time to let your crockpot do its thing with this slow cooked pulled pork, you will upgrade your homemade taco game. As the carnitas slowly roasts in your slow cooker, the robust flavor is amplified-and the result is some amazing tacos. Check out our other Slow Cooker Recipes.

Ingredients

To make these delicious Mexican pulled pork tacos, you will need the following ingredients:

pork - I would recommend boneless pork shoulder or baby back ribs for the most tender and juicy carnitas.
vegetable oil
salt and pepper
onion
seasoning - dried oregano, paprika, and garlic powder.
water

To assemble the tacos, you will need:

small tortillas - I used corn tortillas, but any type works especially wheat tortillas. I often make my own homemade flour tortillas - they are a lot easier to make than you think!
white onion
cilantro
sour cream - optional
jalapeño - optional for a spicy kick.
lime wedges - for an extra squeeze of tang.

Tacos are extremely versatile and you can add in whatever toppings that you please. Try topping these with some Pico de Gallo or Guacamole for even more flavor.

How to Make the Best Mexican Pulled Pork Tacos (Slow Cooker Carnitas)

Prepare the pork. Pat dry pork shoulder or ribs with paper towel completely and set aside. In a small bowl, stir well to combine oil with all the dry rub ingredients until smooth. Rub and spread onto pork until evenly coated. Spread chopped onions evenly inside a 6-quart slow cooker (or crockpot) and add water. Place pork on top of onions. If using ribs, you can stack them on top of each other.
Slow cook and shred the pork. Cover and cook on 8-10 hours on the LOW setting or 4-6 hours on the HIGH setting until fork tender. Shred the pork by using two forks to pull the meat apart into small bite size and discard the bones (if using ribs).
Crisp the shredded pork (optional). Add shredded pork along with some drippings from the slow cooker into a large skillet or frying pan. Spread evenly and heat over medium-high heat for 6-8 minutes until the juices evaporate and pork turns nicely brown and crispy.
Heat the tortillas. Heat the tortillas according to the package instructions, or heat in an ungreased skillet over medium-high heat for 30 seconds per side. You can also heat it directly on a gas burner for a few seconds to get char marks on the edges.
Assemble the tacos. Add 2-3 tablespoons shredded pork on each tortilla, topped with pan juices if desired, diced onion, cilantro, and jalapeño. Add a dollop of sour cream (optional) and a squeeze of fresh lime juice, to taste.

Storing Instructions

How to store: When storing tacos, you should always keep your tortillas and your meat separate-or else the tortillas can get soggy. Keep the pulled pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
How to reheat: You can reheat leftover carnitas in a pan on the stovetop over medium heat. Add a splash of water if you want to keep the meat more saucy or leave the pan uncovered if you want to crisp up the pork. Reheat tortillas on a clean dry (unoiled) skillet over medium-high heat for a few minutes. If they were stiff from being in the fridge, the heat will soften them.

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Fig Crostini with Goat Cheese and Pistachios

Fig crostini with goat cheese and pistachios is a delicious and easy summer appetizer that you can make in just 10 minutes. It's fancy, sophisticated, and looks like a work of art. Toasted slices of French baguettes are topped with creamy tangy goat cheese, fresh juicy figs, a sprinkle of pistachios, and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar or honey (depending on what flavor you are craving!). Perfect for snacking on or entertaining.

Why You'll Love Fig Crostini with Goat Cheese and Pistachios

Fresh figs are the best. There is nothing that beats fresh figs, so if you see them pop up in your local market GRAB THEM. Actually, grab two boxes, because just as fast as they appear, they will quickly be out of season, leaving you longing for their return. They are fresh in season in the early summer and also in later summer or early fall. So make sure to get your fix before they are gone. We are getting our fix over here with a serving (or two) of fig crostini with goat cheese and pistachios.
The perfect combination of toppings. Figs are sweet, juicy, and perfect for snacking on as is, but I absolutely love pairing them with goat cheese. Something about the tangy and sweet flavours together never disappoints. Topped with pistachios for extra flavor, crunch, and color.

Fig crostini topped sweet, juicy figs, tangy goat cheese and crunchy pistachios is flavourful, delicious, and perfect for snacking on or entertaining. | aheadofthyme.com

Ingredients and Substitutions

To make this delicious and easy fig crostini with goat cheese and pistachios, you will need the following ingredients:

French baguette - you need one baguette sliced into ¼-inch pieces (which should give you about 15-20 slices). Use store-bought to make life easier, or try your hand at making your own Homemade French Baguettes.
figs - you will need fresh figs.
goat cheese - you could substitute this with feta cheese, ricotta, or a vegan cheese that is easy to spread.
pistachios - you could top these crostini with any nuts you have on hand (toasted to bring out the flavour!), but honestly I love the pop of colour the pistachios bring to this dish.
olive oil
salt and pepper
balsamic vinegar or honey - If you have a sweet tooth, drizzle a bit of honey on the finished crostini. If, however, you're more like me and prefer a bit of contrast, balsamic vinegar is the way to go! OR better yet, a balsamic glaze -- try making your own (grab the super easy recipe here!). You can't imagine how good these taste, and I guarantee they will disappear quickly!

How to Make the Best Fig Crostini with Goat Cheese and Pistachios

Toast the baguette. Place as many pieces of sliced baguette on a rimmed quarter sheet baking pan as you can fit. Drizzle with olive oil and salt. Bake in a 375 F preheated oven until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Let cool for 10 minutes.
Assemble the crostini. Using a small spatula, spread about 1 tablespoon goat cheese on each crostini, covering most of the bread. Layer quartered figs on top of goat cheese. Sprinkle with toasted pistachios and season with a little sea salt and black pepper on each crostini.
Serve. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar or honey (or both!). Serve immediately.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

How to pick the best figs: When selecting figs at your local grocery store or farmer's market, make sure to pick ones that are plump and soft, with smooth skin (no cracks) and their stems still on.
How to store fresh figs: Store fresh figs in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Make ahead? I would not recommend making these ahead as the creamy cheese will cause the toasted baguettes to start getting soggy if assembled and stored too long.

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Greek Meatballs

Baked Greek meatballs are juicy and tender, flavorful and delicious, and quick and easy to make. They are packed with fresh dill, garlic, lemon, and feta for the best Mediterranean flavors. Plus, they make the perfect weeknight dinner taking just 30 minutes to make, including prep! Serve with a drizzle of tzatziki sauce and side of pita bread, or over rice and potatoes. The best part? You can make a big batch and freeze any leftovers for an easy freezer meal on a busy day.

Why You'll Love Greek Meatballs

They are quick and easy. Meatballs are generally a go to weeknight meal over here because they are so easy to make. They typically take less than half an hour, and most times can be prepped ahead. Some of my other favorite meatballs for busy weeknights include: Swedish Meatballs, Italian Meatballs, and Sticky Honey Garlic Meatballs.
They are packed with flavor. A twist on classic meatballs, these Greek-style meatballs (known as Keftedes) have added dill, garlic, lemon zest, cumin, and oregano, which incorporates amazing flavor into these meatballs. Plus, the feta adds a delicious and rich salty tang. These are a total crowd pleaser.
They are oven-baked. Oven-baked meatballs are easier to cook and clean up after than pan-fried meatballs. You literally just roll them up and place then into the oven on a sheet pan. No flipping or turning required.

Ingredients and Substitutions

To make these delicious baked Greek meatballs, you will need the following ingredients:

ground beef - I recommend lean ground beef for these meatballs.
breadcrumbs
fresh dill
garlic
lemon - you will need some lemon zest and freshly squeezed lemon juice.
ground cumin
dried oregano - you can also use fresh oregano. Use double the amount if substituting with fresh.
ground black pepper
feta cheese
egg
tzatziki sauce - for drizzling on top when serving. Either homemade tzatziki sauce or store-bought works well. It's really easy to make your own tzatziki, and the flavor is unmatched with store-bought.

You will also need a mixing bowl and large half sheet baking pan.

How to Make the Best Greek Meatballs

Prepare the beef. In a large mixing bowl, combine beef with breadcrumbs, dill, garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, cumin, oregano, pepper, feta cheese, and egg. Mix well to form into a uniform consistency. Set aside for 15 minutes or refrigerate overnight.
Shape the meatballs. Take 2 spoonfuls of the beef mixture at a time and roll into meatballs. Transfer meatballs onto a parchment-lined half sheet baking pan and lightly coat with some cooking oil spray to keep them from sticking, if needed.
Bake. Bake in a 400 F preheated oven for 15 minutes until fully cooked. The internal temperature should reach 160F as read on a meat thermometer.

How to Cook Greek Meatballs in the Air Fryer

Preheat the air fryer to 375 F, about 3 minutes. Place meatballs in a single layer in the air fryer basket and lightly spray with cooking oil to coat evenly. Air fry the meatballs for 12-14 minutes until browned and the center of the meatball reaches 160 F as read on a meat thermometer. Shake the basket halfway during cooking to brown evenly.

How to Serve Greek Meatballs

Serve these delicious meatballs with a drizzle of Tzitaziki Sauce and a side of Pita Bread. You could even make a Greek Gyro Wrap using meatballs. Some other ways that you can serve Greek meatballs are over rice and Greek Lemon Potatoes, or with a Greek Salad and roasted vegetables.

Storing and Freezing Instructions

How to store: Store any leftover Greek meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Allow the meatballs to cool to room temperate before storing.
How to freeze: Meatballs freeze well both before and after baking.
- To freeze uncooked meatballs: Place the shaped meatballs on a large half sheet baking pan lined with parchment paper. Transfer the pan to the freezer and freeze until hard, about 1 hour. Then, transfer the meatballs into a freezer bag or freezer-safe airtight container and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. To cook, allow the meatballs to thaw overnight in the refrigerator first, then cook as per recipe instructions on the stove.
- To freeze cooked meatballs: Once cooled, store the meatballs in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
How to Reheat: You can reheat Greek meatballs in the microwave, oven, air fryer or on the stovetop. For the best results, reheat at 350 F in the oven for 10 minutes, or in the air fryer for 5-10 minutes.

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60 Best Memorial Day Recipes

Memorial Day long weekend means that it's the official kick off to summer. And like most celebrations, it's all about the food. So if you are wondering what to make for a Memorial Day summer cookout or BBQ, then you have come to the right place. I am sharing over 60 of the best and most popular Memorial Day recipes including all the classics as well as some new fun summer recipes to try. From burgers and fries, smokey grill recipes, fresh summer salads, delicious dips, cool refreshing desserts, and more, I have got you covered.

The top 60 popular best Memorial Day recipes for a summer cookout BBQ including burgers and fries, grill recipes, summer salads, dips, desserts, and more. | aheadofthyme.com

Classic Juicy Hamburgers

Better than the steakhouse, these classic juicy hamburgers are perfectly seasoned, so flavourful and delicious. A go to Memorial Day recipe. You can also try your hand at homemade hamburger buns to serve these patties in.

Italian Pasta Salad

Italian pasta salad is delicious, wholesome, and easy to make. Make it up to three days ahead for your summer picnics and cookouts. You can't get more classic than Italian Salad on Memorial Day!

Greek Chicken Souvlaki Skewers

Easy Greek chicken souvlaki skewers marinated in garlic, fresh herbs, lemon and bay leaves for that classic Mediterranean flavour. Grill in under 15 minutes. Serve alongside some easy homemade tzatziki sauce or turn them into Greek chicken gyros wrapped in pita bread. One of my favorite Memorial Day recipes!

Grilled Corn on the Cob

Buttery and salty grilled corn on the cob with beautiful char marks, delicious flavor, and the best texture is the easiest recipe to throw on the grill.

Lobster Rolls

New England Lobster Rolls are a classic sandwich loaded with fresh lobster meat. Make them in just 10 minutes and serve them all summer long.

Strawberry Lemonade

Homemade strawberry lemonade is refreshing, flavorful, and easy to make. This sparkling summer drink is loaded with fresh strawberries and lemon.

Classic Coleslaw

Fresh, crisp, classic coleslaw salad is a must-have recipe for a summer barbecue or picnic, or as an easy make-ahead lunch. Make it in less than 10 minutes.

Mediterranean Turkey Burgers

Mediterranean turkey burgers are tender, juicy, and delicious, loaded with garlic, fresh dill, and lemon juice. The perfect summer weeknight meal.

Slow Cooker BBQ Ribs

Slow cooker BBQ ribs are juicy, saucy, and tender -- the meat literally falls right off the bone. Add this easy recipe to your list of crockpot recipes.

Banana Pudding

No bake banana pudding parfaits are creamy, delicious, and sweet, with layers of homemade vanilla pudding, freshly sliced bananas, and wafer cookies.

Burgers and Fries

Salmon Burgers

These Salmon Burgers made with real fresh salmon, are crispy on the outside and flaky inside, juicy and thick, and healthy and packed with protein.

Black Bean Burgers

Homemade vegetarian black bean burgers are thick, hearty, flavorful, and delicious. They are easy to make with the best texture (no mushy burgers here!).

Mediterranean Chicken Patties

Delicious, moist and juicy Mediterranean chicken patties have everything you want in one bite: protein, veggies, herbs, and they're quick and easy to make.

Herby Beef Burgers

Super juicy and flavourful rosemary thyme quarter pound burgers made with fresh herbs add such an incredible depth of flavour. Just 10 minutes of prep work.

Thai Turkey Burgers

These Thai Turkey Burgers topped with a crisp and creamy slaw are loaded with fresh and bright flavors, healthy and delicious, and quick and easy to make.

Fish Burgers with Creamy Slaw

These 15-minute fish burgers with creamy slaw are juicy, flakey, and packed with flavour. So easy that it's the perfect summer weeknight meal!

Spinach and Feta Turkey Burgers

Greek-style spinach and feta turkey burgers are tender, juicy, and flavourful, loaded with spinach, feta and fresh Mediterranean herbs and is so easy to prep. Serve it with tzatziki sauce.

Veggie Burgers with Lima Beans

You don't need to be vegetarian to enjoy protein-packed, juicy and flavourful homemade veggie burgers with lima beans.

You don't need to be vegetarian to enjoy a protein-packed, juicy and flavourful homemade veggie burger with lima beans. | aheadofthyme.com

Air Fryer French Fries

Super crispy air fryer french fries are tender and fluffy on the inside and crunchy on the outside. Make this healthier french fry in just 12 minutes!

Baked Sweet Potato Wedges

Baked Sweet Potato Wedges are crispy, delicious, flavorful. Serve as an appetizer or side dish. They are salty, savory, and sweet, with a hint of spice.

Baked Potato Wedges

Baked Potato Wedges are crispy outside and soft inside - exactly what you want from a potato wedge but without frying! Cook in the oven or air fryer.

Grilled Skewers and Kebabs

Balsamic Chicken Kabobs

Grilled Balsamic Chicken Kabobs are a delicious flavorful summer grill staple marinated in a balsamic sauce, skewered with vegetables, and grilled or baked.

Garlic Shrimp Skewers

Garlic shrimp skewers are delicious and full of fresh flavor. These quick and easy kabobs can be grilled, baked or air fried for an easy summer dinner.

Souvlaki Beef Shish Kebabs

Easy Greek souvlaki beef shish kebabs are marinated in a garlicky lemony olive oil marinade and threaded with fresh vegetables. Cook on the grill or oven. Serve them wrapped inside some quick and easy pita bread.

Teriyaki Chicken Skewers with Pineapple

Juicy and tender teriyaki chicken skewers with pineapple, bell peppers and red onions are sticky, sweet, savoury, and tangy. So flavourful and delicious. Serve over some steamed rice or easy coconut rice.

Grilled Cajun Shrimp Skewers

Spicy Cumin Lamb Skewers

Juicy and tender, Xinjiang spicy cumin lamb skewers with a bold cumin and cayenne marinade, are so flavourful and easy to make on the grill or air fryer. Serve it with a fresh Chinese garlic cucumber salad on the side.

Grilled Orange Chicken Skewers

Flame-kissed, sticky and saucy, grilled orange chicken skewers with a rich, citrus-based marinade are delicious, juicy and so tender. Best summer weeknight dinner ever. Serve with a side of 10-minute vegetarian fried rice or noodles.

Korean Chicken Skewers

Juicy and tender Korean chicken skewers are packed with bold flavors bringing sweet, savory, and spicy your dinner table. The best summer weeknight dinner.

Chicken Satay Skewers with Peanut Sauce

Better than takeout, easy to make tender chicken satay skewers with coconut marinade and homemade peanut dipping sauce is savoury, sweet, tangy, and nutty. Serve it over some delicious easy coconut rice.

Greek Souvlaki Lamb Skewers

Quick and easy, grilled Greek lamb souvlaki skewers are marinated in a simple Mediterranean marinade for just 30 minutes. Serve with some tzatziki sauce. Serve over top of some rice pilaf with carrots and Greek salad on the side. So delicious.

Persian Saffron Chicken Kebabs (Joojeh Kabob)

Quick and easy, classic Persian saffron chicken kebabs (joojeh kabob) is marinated in a simple saffron and lemon marinade for that classic Iranian flavour. Make it a full on Persian dinner with Basmati rice with saffron and Persian Shirazi salad with cucumber and tomato.

Easy Grilled Shrimp Boil

Summer Salads

Greek Pasta Salad

Greek Pasta Salad is quick and easy, loaded with Mediterranean flavors, and delicious. Serve it at a summer cookout or potluck, or meal prep weekly lunches.

Creamy Cucumber Salad

This creamy cucumber salad is the easy, refreshing snack and side dish your summer cookouts have been missing. Make it ahead with just 5 minutes prep. Another one of the classic Memorial Day recipes.

Macaroni Salad

Classic macaroni salad is a creamy and delicious pasta salad that is easy to throw together. It's the perfect side to bring to a summer potluck or BBQ.

Summer Corn Salad

Take fresh-off-the-grill corn on the cob and turn it into a light, flavourful summer corn salad, topped with cherry tomatoes, fresh basil and cheese.

Potato Salad

Easy homemade potato salad is loaded with baby potatoes, eggs, and green onions and tossed in a mayo sauce and is a go-to for summer barbecues and picnics.

Mediterranean Orzo Pasta Salad

Quick and easy Mediterranean orzo pasta salad packed with fresh vegetables and herbs is tossed in a Greek lemon vinaigrette. Healthy, light and delicious.

Watermelon Feta Salad

Watermelon feta salad with cucumbers and mint is a simple and delicious refreshing summer salad that you can toss together in 5 minutes.

Strawberry Avocado Salad

Loaded with fresh ingredients, strawberry avocado salad with poppy seed dressing is the ultimate summer salad -- light, vibrant, fresh, sweet, and tangy.

Summer Citrus Salad

This Summer Citrus Salad is delicious, tangy, and colorful. It's loaded with fresh fruit including oranges and grapefruit tossed in a citrus dressing.

Chickpea Greek Salad

Chickpea Greek salad is a fresh, healthy, vibrant, and colorful salad, packed with traditional Mediterranean ingredients, superfoods, and nutrients.

Creamy Broccoli Slaw Salad

Creamy broccoli slaw salad is healthy, delicious, and flavourful. It's packed with crunchy vegetables, salty feta, sweet raisins, and a creamy dressing.

Quinoa Spinach Salad

Take a bite into this refreshing, gluten-free quinoa and spinach salad bursting with colourful tomatoes, cucumbers and raisins.

Mediterranean Chickpea Wedge Salad

Mediterranean chickpea wedge salad combines chickpeas, crunchy vegetable toppings, and hummus dressing for a delicious deconstructed falafel flavour.

Shrimp Taco Salad

Shrimp taco salad with cilantro lime dressing is flavourful, delicious, and easy to make. It has all the fixings and of shrimp tacos, but without the mess.

Summer Fruit Salad

This Summer Fruit Salad is colorful, delicious, and naturally sweet (no processed sugar!). It's easy to make with fresh fruit tossed in a homemade dressing.

Meaty Dishes

Honey Garlic Chicken Wings

These sweet and sticky honey garlic chicken wings are baked or air fried until crispy and tossed in a honey garlic sauce. So crave-worthy and so easy to make.

The Best Ribeye Steak

Better than the steakhouse, the best tender and juicy ribeye steak with a perfect seared crust is garlicky, buttery and packed with so much flavour. Serve with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and easy air fryer asparagus. Or, why not make your meal a full on surf and turf with lobster tails... um yes please!

Baked BBQ Chicken Wings

Sweet and sticky, baked BBQ chicken wings are perfectly crispy, so delicious, and smothered in barbecue sauce. They are the perfect summer appetizer. Plus, you can easily adapt them for the grill.

Air Fryer Short Ribs

Air fryer short ribs are crispy, flavorful, and delicious. The easy marinade ensures they're tender and juicy inside, while the air fryer makes them crispy.

Miso Garlic Chicken Wings

Baked miso garlic chicken wings are crispy, delicious, and easy to make. They're marinated in a savoury Asian marinade, and cooked in the oven or air fryer.

Summer Side Dishes and Snacks

Easy Tomato Bruschetta with Balsamic Glaze

Tomato bruschetta with balsamic glaze is an easy Italian appetizer topped with tomatoes, onions, garlic, basil and olive oil. Delicious, fresh and simple. It's one of my favourite Easter appetizers of all time.

Stovetop Mac and Cheese with White Cheddar

Quick and easy, creamy stovetop mac and cheese with white cheddar is a delicious and comforting one pot 20-minute meal packed with three types of cheese.

Mexican Street Corn (Elote)

Mexican street corn (elote) is a delicious corn on the cob loaded with a cheesy sauce elevated with cilantro and lime. Creamy, cheesy, spicy, and flavorful.

Deviled Eggs

Classic deviled eggs are a simple, easy, and healthy appetizer to make when you need something quick for brunch, picnics, barbecues, potlucks, or Easter.

Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus and Melon

Prosciutto wrapped asparagus and melon are salty, sweet, and juicy. They are easy to make with a handful of simple ingredients, then cooked on the grill.

Oven-Roasted Corn on the Cob

Oven-roasted corn on the cob with homemade garlic butter is buttery, juicy, crunchy, and perfectly charred on the outside - without a grill. You could also adapt this recipe for the grill.

Chicken Nachos

Chicken nachos are an easy to make when you're craving something filling, crunchy, cheesy, and satisfying. Perfect game day appetizer or late-night snack.

Savoury Dips

Baked Spinach Dip

Warm, rich, creamy baked spinach dip is a delicious and easy appetizer that is baked until warm and melty. Easy to make ahead and a total crowd pleaser. It's one of my favourite Memorial Day recipes.

7 Layer Dip

This easy and delicious 7 layer dip is the perfect dip to serve at your next party, made with layers of beans, guacamole, salsa, cheese, and more.

Easy Basic Guacamole

Incredibly tasty, this easy and basic guacamole takes less than 5 minutes to make. It is the perfect dip for a Mexican-inspired Super Bowl party.

Delicious and easy guacamole is simple to make with just a few fresh ingredients in 5 minutes. This popular authentic Mexican dip is a total crowd-pleaser. | aheadofthyme.com

Roasted Red Pepper Hummus

Smooth creamy roasted red pepper hummus is a delicious, flavourful, vegan + gluten-free dip. This healthy appetizer is easy to make with a few ingredients.

Caramelized Onion Dip

Caramelized onion dip is creamy, flavorful, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. This easy appetizer is perfect for entertaining, on game day, or for a snack.

Pico de Gallo Chunky Salsa

Easy 5-minute pico de gallo chunky salsa is packed with fresh tomatoes, onion, cilantro, and lime juice (and optional jalapeños for a spicy kick).

Whipped Ricotta Dip

Light and airy, whipped ricotta dip is so easy to make in just 5 minutes with a few fresh ingredients including fresh herbs, olive oil, garlic, and honey.

Smooth and Creamy Hummus

Whip up classic smooth and creamy hummus dip at home in just 5 minutes, by combining chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice and garlic in the blender. Serve it with veggies or crackers, or use it in a vegan hummus wrap.

Whip up smooth and creamy classic hummus dip at home in just 5 minutes, by combining chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice and garlic in the blender. | aheadofthyme.com

Queso Mexican Cheese Dip

Homemade queso Mexican cheese dip is smooth, creamy, delicious, flavorful, and so easy to make. It's so much better than store-bought in every way. One of the most satisfying Memorial Day recipes.

Baba Ganoush Eggplant Dip

Baba ganoush is a creamy, roasted eggplant dip mixed with garlic and tahini for an explosion of flavour! It is perfect served with pita chips or veggies.

Baba ganoush is a creamy, roasted eggplant dip mixed with garlic and tahini for an explosion of flavor! It is perfect served with pita chips or veggies. | aheadofthyme.com

Easy Tzatziki Sauce (Cucumber Yogurt Dip)

Light and fresh, easy tzatziki sauce is a creamy yogurt cucumber dip packed with fresh cucumbers, garlic, dill, lemon juice and olive oil. So easy to make.

Pesto Hummus

Smooth and creamy pesto hummus is a healthy, delicious and flavourful dip that is easy to make in just 5 minutes. It's vegan and gluten-free.

Memorial Day Desserts and Drinks

Strawberries and Cream Popsicles

It is time to say good-bye to the store-bought stuff and make strawberries and cream popsicles at home using fresh fruit and Greek yogurt! You can't have a collection of Memorial Day recipes without cool and refreshing popsicles.

Funnel Cake

There's truly nothing like a homemade Funnel Cake: a crispy jumble of crispy vanilla-tinged batter fried and topped with a powdered sugar, and served warm.

Braided Lattice Apple Pie

This braided lattice apple pie is packed with cinnamon apples tossed in a caramel sauce and sealed in a buttery, flaky pie crust with a braided lattice top. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

3-Ingredient Peach Sorbet

Smooth, sweet and refreshing 3-ingredient peach sorbet can be made with just a few minutes prep and without an ice cream maker! It's dairy-free and vegan.

Homemade Lemonade

Homemade Lemonade is a fresh summer drink with the perfect balance of tart and sweet. It is easy to make from scratch with only 3 simple ingredients!

Classic New York Cheesecake

Classic New York Cheesecake is stunning, delicious, rich, and creamy. Plus, it's surprisingly easy to make from scratch - even for beginners!

S'mores Cookies

S'mores Cookies are chewy, gooey, and nostalgic, loaded with marshmallows, chocolate, and Graham crackers - and no campfire required. Quick and easy too!

Individual Apple Crisp

Individual apple crisp are served in ramekins so that you and your guests can enjoy single-sized servings meaning you will get the crunchy corners of crumble all to yourself. Add a big scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for maximum happiness.

Watermelon Sorbet

This 2-ingredient Watermelon Sorbet is easy to make, healthy, all-natural and vegan. Make this homemade frozen treat with no ice cream maker required!

No Churn Vanilla Ice Cream

Smooth and creamy no churn vanilla ice cream with strawberry jam + toasted peanuts is easy to make, no ice cream maker required and better than storebought.

Peach Iced Tea

Homemade peach iced tea is healthy summer drink - refreshing, peachy, sweet, and perfect. It's loaded with real fruit and vitamins and easy to make.

Lemon Sweet Rolls

Soft and fluffy lemon sweet rolls are filled with a lemon vanilla sugar and topped with homemade lemon cream cheese icing. They're sweet, citrusy, and tart.

Strawberry Sorbet

This 3-ingredient Strawberry Sorbet is a refreshing, healthy, vegan, and gluten-free frozen treat to enjoy on a hot day. Plus, no ice cream maker required!

Easy Homemade Apple Hand Pies

Easy homemade apple hand pies/turnovers are the perfect fall treat -- stuffed with tender apples and cinnamon and wrapped in crispy, flakey, buttery crust.

Easy homemade apple turnovers are the perfect fall treat -- stuffed with tender apples and cinnamon and wrapped in crispy, flakey, buttery crust. | aheadofthyme.com

Rice Krispies Treats

Rice Krispies Treats are a classic dessert loved by all. These chewy, crunchy, sticky-sweet treats are easy to make from scratch using just 3 ingredients!

Blackberry Milkshake

This blackberry milkshake is thick, creamy, and smooth. You won't believe how quick and easy it is to make at home with 3 ingredients in under 5 minutes.

Memorial Day Summer Kick Off Party Tips

Plan your menu ahead of time. You can prepare many of these grilling recipes and summer recipes ahead of time. Some actually do need to be marinated in advance, some can stored in an airtight container for a few days at room temperature or in the refrigerator, and some can even be frozen, according to recipe directions.
Prep your ingredients as much as possible. Once you have decided on what you are going to serve on Memorial Day, you can try and prepare as much as you can ahead of time. For instance, chop up ingredients, prepare salads and store the dressing separately in the refrigerator until ready to assemble.
Set the table the night before. Planning a fun summer backyard party? Get out all your summer plates from the storage and set your table in advance, or have it all ready to set on Memorial Day. It's one less thing to worry about.

Did You Make Any of These Memorial Day Recipes?

Please leave a comment and rating below, and let me know what you thought of this round up of Memorial Day recipes. Be sure to snap a picture and tag me on Instagram @aheadofthyme or share it on the Pinterest pin so that I can follow along.

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Fudgy Brownies

Fudgy brownies are rich, sweet, moist, and decadent. Whether you're looking for a dessert to bring to the potluck or a late-night chocolate snack to indulge in, these brownies will do the trick. They're easy to make in one bowl and ready in about 30 minutes. You can prepare them ahead of time, wrap them individually, or eat them hot out of the oven with a scoop of vanilla ice cream (my favorite!). However you enjoy them, you will love them.

Why You'll Love Fudgy Brownies

Gooey, fudgy texture. These fudgy brownies get their texture from the perfect ratio of ingredients. By adding in a little less flour and cocoa powder than my classic brownies, it will keep them super fudgy. Plus, the bake time also plays a role. If you bake the brownies for 25 minute, you will get extra fudginess, or bake for 30 minutes for a more cakey texture.
Rich and chocolatey. These brownies are packed with real chocolate and cocoa powder, giving you double the richness and flavor. You can also add in a handful of chocolate chips on top at the end for extra chocolate because why not?
Minimal clean up. One of my favorite parts of this recipe is that it is a one bowl brownie recipe, which means that there are less dishes to clean. I mean, why clean more dishes if you don't have to?

Ingredients

To make these easy one bowl fudgy brownies, you will need the following ingredients:

semi-sweet chocolate - use coarsely chopped chocolate or chocolate chips.
butter
sugar - both granulated sugar and brown sugar.
eggs
vanilla extract
all-purpose flour
cocoa powder
salt

You will also need measuring cups and spoons, mixing bowl, hand mixer, silicone spatula, and 9-inch square baking pan.

How to Make the Best Fudgy Brownies

Prep the pan. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease a 9-inch square baking pan and line it with parchment paper so that it hangs over two sides to make it easy to life the brownies out of the pan when baked.
Melt the chocolate. Melt the chocolate with butter in a medium heatproof bowl over a pan of simmering water. Make sure the bottom of the bowl does not touch the water, or you will burn the chocolate. Whisk until melted and smooth.
Add remaining ingredients. Remove from heat and add sugars into the chocolate mixture and whisk until completely combined. Let the chocolate mixture cool for a few minutes. Add in eggs and vanilla, and beat with a hand mixer on medium speed for 2 minutes. This will ensure that the brownies have a classic crinkly top. Add in flour, cocoa powder, and salt and fold together using a large spatula until just combined. Transfer the thick batter into the prepared baking pan.
Bake. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until a toothpick inserted comes out clean with moist a few moist crumbs attached. For a super fudgy brownies, bake for 25 minutes. For a cakey brownies, bake for 30 minutes.
Serve. Once the brownies are done, remove the baking pan from the oven and place it on a wire cooling rack. Once cooled completely, lift it out of the pan and cut into squares. Or grab a spoon and enjoy it hot out of the pan with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!

Recipe Tips and Tricks

How to make a larger batch: To make a larger batch, double the recipe and pour the batter into a 9x13-inch casserole pan, and bake for 30-35 minutes.
How to customize: You can add in extra chocolate chips or nuts on top before baking. After baking, you can add a drizzle of Salted Caramel Sauce on top.
How to store: Fresh brownies keep the best at room temperature for up to two days in an airtight container. You can extend their lifespan by putting them in the refrigerator for up to one week, but you may lose some of the delicious fudgy texture. Reheat in the microwave for 10-20 seconds for best results.
How to freeze: Free cooled brownies in a freezer bag or airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Allow it to thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours or at room temperature before serving.

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Strawberry Banana Smoothie

Quick and easy strawberry banana smoothie is the perfect breakfast on the go or refreshing snack to get you through the day. It's fruity, delicious, and packed with nutrients. The best part? You can literally whip up in just a minute or two. Talk about convenient!

Why You'll Love Strawberry Banana Smoothie

It's quick and easy. This recipe literally takes a minute or two to make. You require just 4 simple ingredients and a blender. You could even prep the ingredients in advance and store them into individual portions in the freezer. Then just take your portioned amount and blend it up in seconds.
Provides a healthy energy boost. This perfect combination of strawberry and banana will leave you feeling refreshed and sustained with that extra energy boost you need to get through the rest of the day. Plus, it's packed with vitamins (hello Vitamin C!) and minerals making it pretty good for you.
No added sugar. This homemade smoothie contains just fruit and milk. It has no added sugar or sweeteners, unlike many store-bought smoothies which typically contains quite a bit of sugar and possibly artificial flavors.

Ingredients and Substitutions

To make this easy and delicious strawberry banana smoothie, you will need the following ingredients:

banana - use a ripe banana for the best flavour and sweetness.
strawberries - I like to use fresh strawberries when they are season. You can also substitute with frozen strawberries.
almond milk - You can substitute this with any kind of milk Keep it vegan by using oat milk or cashew milk, or if not sticking to a vegan diet, feel free to use dairy milk.
ice

If you prefer a sweeter smoothie, you can also add in a little honey to taste, or some fruit juice.

How to Make the Best Strawberry Banana Smoothie

Like most smoothies, this strawberry banana smoothie is so easy to make. You literally throw all 4 ingredients into the blender, blend together for less than a minute, and pour yourself a refreshing glass of homemade smoothie (with no added sugar or artificial flavors!).

How to Serve Smoothies

Enjoy a glass of this smoothie on its own or add some toppings for a bit more bulk. I love adding in granola, seeds, or sliced fruit.

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Slow Cooker BBQ Ribs

Slow cooker BBQ ribs are juicy, saucy, and so tender -- that the meat literally falls right off the bone. This simple and delicious recipe is one you need to add to your collection of crockpot recipes if you are looking for restaurant-quality ribs from the comfort of your own home. With just a handful of simple ingredients, they come together seamlessly. Once cooked in the slow cooker, throw them into the oven and broil them until perfectly golden and charred. So so good.

Why You'll Love Slow Cooker BBQ Ribs

Sweet, spicy, and saucy. The base of this sauce will come from your favorite barbecue sauce. But the flavors of regular BBQ sauce are elevated with extra brown sugar, cayenne pepper, and garlic, adding a sweet and spicy profile that everyone will love.
Simple recipe with stellar results. This is the perfect ribs recipe for novice cooks since it's so simple and easy to make, yet absolutely delicious. Just throw everything into the crockpot and let it do its thing. It's impossible to go wrong with saucy, tender ribs in your slow cooker.
Enough for the whole family. While you can cut this recipe down if you prefer, following it as it will give 4 pounds of baby back ribs-enough for everyone to enjoy, plus some!

Ingredients

To make juicy and tender slow cooker BBQ ribs, you will need the following ingredients:

baby back ribs - be sure to use baby back ribs. They are leaner and smaller than spareribs-but most importantly, they're more tender.
BBQ sauce - feel free to use homemade or store bought barbecue sauce.
brown sugar
seasoning - paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and mustard powder (optional).
onion
water

You will also need measuring cups and spoons, mixing bowl, and a slow cooker (crockpot).

How to Make the Best Slow Cooker BBQ Short Ribs

Prepare the ribs. Pat dry ribs with paper towel completely and set aside. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together all the dry rub ingredients including brown sugar, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika and mustard powder until evenly distributed. Rub and spread onto ribs using your hands until evenly coated. You can use disposable gloves for easier clean up.
Add ingredients to the slow cooker. Spread chopped onions evenly inside a 6-quart slow cooker (crockpot) and add water. Place the ribs in the slow cooker and generously brush half of the barbecue sauce on top of each rib. You can stack the ribs on top of each other into 2 layers.
Cook. Cover and cook on the LOW setting for 8-10 hours or on the HIGH setting for 4-6 hours. When time is up, the slow cooker will automatically switch to WARM setting. Serve immediately with the remaining BBQ sauce.

Broil (optional). To achieve crispy and nicely charred ribs, gently remove the ribs and place them on a large half sheet baking pan lined with parchment paper. Baste with additional BBQ sauce, if desired. Broil the ribs on top rack of the oven on high for 5-7 minutes until nicely browned.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Remove the silverskin: When preparing the ribs, remove the membrane from the ribs if it hasn't already been done by the butcher. If you don't remove it, the ribs will likely be stuck together with tough skin. To remove the membrane, slide a small kitchen knife under the membrane (and over the bone) at one end of the rack. Gently lift the membrane with the knife until it tears away from the rack. Then, grab the membrane with a paper towel and pull it away from the rack-it may come off in one large piece, or you may need to take it off in several pieces.
How to store: Keep leftover ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can store the sauce separately or with ribs.
How to reheat: BBQ ribs taste best when reheated in the oven, wrapped in foil, at 350F for 15 minutes, or until hot. You can also heat them in the microwave.

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Italian Pasta Salad

Italian pasta salad is an essential summer dish that is delicious, wholesome, and easy to make. Made with pasta, vibrant vegetables, salami, mozzarella balls, olives, and fresh herbs, this pasta salad is nutritious, flavorful, and provides the energy you need to get through the day. It's what your summer picnics and cookouts need this year. The best part? It's ridiculously easy to make ahead (and actually tastes better the next day!).

Why You'll Love Italian Pasta Salad

It's quick and easy to make. When you make Italian pasta salad, most of the work comes down to prepping and chopping ingredients. Boil the pasta, chop up those veggies, and toss everything together. Easy peasy.
It's perfect for meal prep. If you love to meal prep, you'll adore this Italian pasta salad! Italian pasta salad is a one-and-done meal. Prepare it at the beginning of the week for a few days of easy and enjoyable meals with no effort.
Mediterranean ingredients. If you enjoy a good Italian or Greek salad and healthy carbs, then you'll love this Italian pasta salad which features salami, fresh mozzarella, and kalamata olives. With fresh and light ingredients, it's the perfect summer dish to bring to your next potluck,

Ingredients and Substitutions

To make delicious Italian pasta salad, you will need the following ingredients:

pasta - use your favorite shape of pasta. I like to rotini or fusili because of how it holds on to the delicious Italian dressing in every crevice, bringing all the flavors in each bite.
salami - or you can substitute with pepperoni.
grape tomatoes
bell peppers - you can use any combination of bell peppers that you want. I like including red peppers because of the pop of color it adds.
red onion
kalamata black olives - you can also substitute with regular black olives, if you prefer.
bocconcini mozzarella balls
fresh parsley
Italian dressing - feel free to use store-bought dressing or make your own Homemade Italian Salad Dressing in minutes.
Parmesan cheese

You will also need measuring cups and spoons and a mixing bowl or serving bowl.

How to Make the Best Italian Pasta Salad

Make the pasta. Bring a medium pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes or according to package instructions. Drain and rinse pasta under cold water to stop the cooking process and to cool the pasta down.
Toss ingredients. Transfer the pasta to a large mixing bowl or serving bowl. If not assembling the salad immediately, add some olive oil and toss together to prevent the pasta from sticking together. Otherwise, add remaining ingredients. Pour Italian salad dressing on top, and toss to combine.
Serve or chill. You can serve immediately with Parmesan on top, or cover the bowl tightly with plastic cling wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. This will allow all the flavours to infuse into each other. When ready to serve, give the salad a good toss and add a little more dressing, if desired.

Storing Instructions

How to store: Store Italian pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you need meals on the go, divide Italian pasta salad into smaller portions in meal prep containers that you can easily take with you. Otherwise, store it in a large container.
A low-carb option: If you want to cut out carbs, but still craving delicious pasta salad, try substituting quinoa, chickpeas, iceberg lettuce, or all of the above for a faux Italian "pasta" salad.

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Homemade Italian Dressing

Homemade Italian dressing is easy to make, delicious, and tastes way better than store-bought salad dressing. It's an olive oil and vinegar based dressing that packs on the flavor with lemon juice, garlic, and fresh herbs. The best part? You can make it in a matter of minutes and drizzle it over your favorite salads, vegetables, and more. What are you waiting for?

Why You'll Love Italian Salad Dressing

Real and simple ingredients. For this recipe, you'll need some simple ingredients including olive oil, vinegar, lemon juice, garlic, and fresh herbs. Shake it all up and you have a delicious Italian dressing that is fresh and zesty made with real ingredients. Unlike its store-bought counterpart which contains additives and sugar.
It is easy to make. All it takes is combining the ingredients and shaking them together. You can make a big batch and store it in the refrigerator and use it for the next 2 weeks. There really is no reason to buy store-bought dressing when it's this easy to make it at home.
Pour it over everything. Pour Italian dressing over any salad that would go well with a vinaigrette-style dressing, especially Italian Pasta Salad. You can also use it in pasta, as a marinade for meat and fish, or drizzle it over grilled veggies.

Ingredients

To make this easy and delicious homemade Italian dressing, you will need the following ingredients:

olive oil
white wine vinegar
lemon juice
garlic
parsley - you can also substitute with half the amount of dried parsley.
Italian seasoning - you can substitute this with just dried oregano.
salt and pepper

You could also add about ¼ teaspoon of sugar to balance out the acidity in the dressing if you feel that it needs it. I typically don't add sugar because I like the way it tastes without it.

For a spicier kick, add in ¼ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes (or more!).

How to Make the Best Homemade Italian Dressing

Add all ingredients into a mason jar and seal it with the lid. Shake until well combined. You can also transfer all ingredients into a blender or food processor and pulse until blended.

Use immediately or store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Shake or stir well before using to prevent separation.

How to Serve Italian Dressing

Salad. Try it with Italian Pasta Salad or a Mixed Green Salad.
Meat. Use it as a marinade for chicken, beef, pork, or seafood.
Vegetables. Drizzle it over grilled vegetables for extra flavour.

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Queso Mexican Cheese Dip

Homemade queso Mexican cheese dip is smooth, creamy, delicious, flavorful, and so easy to make. It's so much better than store-bought in every way -- made with real cheese and ingredients (and no artificial flavors), cheaper since you cut out the middleman, and the flavor is just unmatched. Throw in some fresh tomatoes and jalapeños to add the best flavour to this cheesy spread. Whether you are serving queso with tortilla chips for major dunking, or on the side of your favorite Mexican recipes, this is a must-have recipe for your back pocket.

Why You'll Love Queso Dip

Spread the cheesy goodness. This recipe is perfect for dunking tortilla chips into, or for spreading on your favorite Tex-Mex recipes. Pour it over Sheet Pan Nachos, add it to Ground Beef Tacos, add a dollop to Chicken Tortilla Soup or Beef Chili, drizzle it over veggies, and so much more.
Save money and have better queso. Those jars of queso in the store are overpriced and full of preservatives and artificial flavors. When you make this Mexican cheese dip at home, you can save money and eat way better queso without the additives and preservatives in the store-bought kind.

Ingredients and Substitutions

To make this easy and delicious queso cheese dip, you will need the following ingredients:

butter
onion
garlic
tomato
jalapeño pepper
cornstarch - helps to thicken the dip.
heavy cream - you could also use evaporated milk.
cheese - You can use cheddar cheese (yellow or white), Monterey Jack cheese, or a Mexican cheese blend.
salt and pepper
cilantro - optional for garnish.

How to Make the Best Queso Mexican Cheese Dip

Sauté aromatics. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Sauté onion and garlic until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
Add remaining ingredients. Add tomato and jalapeño and sauté until soft, about 1 minute. Add cornstarch and stir well to combine. Stir in heavy cream and cheese. Stir constantly and bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat until smooth and thickened to a desired consistency, about 4-5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve. Garnish with cilantro, extra jalapeño and chopped tomatoes. Serve warm with tortilla chips or alongside your favorite Mexican dishes.

Storing Instructions

How to store: Allow the queso dip to cool to room temperature before storing in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
How to freeze: Queso also freezes really well. Once cooled, store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. When freezing, you should portion the queso so that you don't need to thaw all of it if you only want some. To thaw, transfer the cheese dip into the refrigerator overnight (or at room temperature for a few hours).
How to reheat: When stored, the consistency becomes very spreadable. To get it back a dip consistency, reheat in the microwave in 20 second increments until warmed and desired consistency is reached.
Storing tip: Always label your refrigerated and frozen foods if you're prone to forgetting when you made it. Your queso dip will last longer if there are no germs, bits of chips, or other pieces of food inside it.

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Miso Black Cod (Sablefish)

Flaky, oily, and tender, miso black cod (or sablefish) is an indulgent meal that's as healthy as it is delicious. It's packed with so much delicious Asian flavours like miso, soy sauce, and sesame. Serve it with a side of rice for a restaurant-quality meal at home. It's perfect for busy weeknights, or any night of the week when you are feeling fancy.

Why You'll Love Miso Black Cod Sablefish

A restaurant-quality meal without the effort. Miso black cod is the best meal to make if you want to impress guests without putting in the extra effort. Simply marinade the fish, bake, drizzle on the glaze, and garnish with sesame seeds. This is how we do fine dining around here on busy weeknights.
Delicious and healthy. Known for its high density of omega-3 fatty acids, black cod delivers the perfect flaky, buttery cut of meat that boasts a unique flavor all to its own. It is also high in other nutrients and vitamins, including vitamin D and B12. Whether you're looking at it on paper or tasting it in your mouth, black cod is better than salmon.
Packed with classic Asian flavours. The flavourful miso marinade and soy-sesame glaze compliments the natural flavors of the sablefish so well. Pair it with a bowl or steamed rice to soak it up all and you have a complete meal that is filling and delicious. If you love this, you will also love our Miso Salmon.

Ingredients and Substitutions

To make this delicious miso black cod (sablefish), you will need the following ingredients:

black cod fillets - you will need about 1.5 pounds of black cod cut into fillets. I made 5 fillets.
miso paste
soy sauce
rice wine vinegar (mirin) - you can substitute this with balsamic vinegar.
olive oil - or use any vegetable oil that you have on hand.
ground black pepper
soy-sesame glaze - a simple sauce made with soy sauce and sesame oil.
sesame seeds - optional, for garnish.
steamed rice - for serving.

You will also need mixing bowls and a large half sheet baking pan.

How to Make the Best Miso Black Cod (Sablefish)

Marinate the fish. In a small mixing bowl, combine miso paste, soy sauce, vinegar, olive oil, and black pepper and mix well with a spoon until smooth. In a large ziploc bag, add black cod and miso marinade. Press air out of the bag and seal tightly. Press the marinade around the fillets to coat. Place bag in the refrigerator and marinate for at least 30 minutes, up to overnight.
Bake. Remove the black cod fillets out of the bag and place them on a large half sheet baking pan lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated 375 F oven for 18-20 minutes until nicely browned. Let it rest at room temperature for 5 minutes. When the cod is cooked, the flesh will flake easily when inserting a fork.
Serve. In another small mixing bowl, mix together soy sauce and sesame oil and drizzle over the cod fillets. Garnish with sesame seeds and cilantro, and serve with steamed rice, fried rice or noodles.

Storing and Reheating Instructions

How to store: Store miso black cod or sablefish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If serving with rice, store the rice separately.
How to reheat: Place leftover fish on a lightly greased baking sheet or casserole dish. Add a splash of water and cover the fish with foil. Reheat in a preheated oven at 275F for 10-15 minutes or until the fish's internal temperature reaches 130F. You can also reheat in the air fryer at 300 F for about 5 minutes, until warmed through.
How to reheat rice: Place the desired amount of rice in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover the rice entirely with a damp paper towel, ensuring there are no gaps for air to escape. Microwave rice in 15-20 increments until steam rises from the paper towel. Wait 1-2 minutes to allow the rice to finish steaming and cool down.

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Creamy Broccoli Slaw Salad

Creamy broccoli slaw salad is healthy, delicious, and flavourful. It's packed with crunchy vegetables, salty feta, sweet raisins, and a creamy dressing so tasty, you will be shocked that it's actually good for you! This quick and easy dish is perfect to serve at your next BBQ as an alternative to a leafy green salad, or even as a light dinner next to a piece of grilled chicken or fish. Either way, it will easily become your new favourite way to get in your daily dose of veggies.

Why You'll Love Creamy Broccoli Slaw Salad

It's a super simple recipe. This vibrant colorful broccoli slaw is so easy, anyone can make it. You literally just throw all the ingredients together into one bowl and toss to combine. You have yourself a healthy and delicious meal that feels light, yet still fills you up.
Perfect for meal prep. One of the best things about this raw broccoli salad is that it's easy to make ahead. Although it is ready to eat after sitting tossed with the dressing for 30 minutes, you will definitely want to make it the day before if you have the time, as it gets better the longer it sits! Don't be surprised when this slaw disappears quickly, it's a total crowd pleaser.
Broccoli is a superfood. This popular vegetable is packed with nutrients and antioxidants, including iron, potassium, calcium, selenium, magnesium, folic acid, and vitamins A, C, E, K, and B! This salad is a delicious way to get in all those nutrients.

Ingredients and Substitutions

To make this delicious and healthy creamy broccoli slaw salad, you will need the following ingredients:

broccoli florets
purple cabbage
feta cheese - you can substitute this with goat cheese, if desired.
raisins - you can substitute this with cranberries or other dried fruit.
pine nuts - or substitute with your favorite toasted nuts. Try toasted walnuts, slivered almonds, or pumpkin seeds.
scallions
dressing - made with mayonnaise (or sour cream or Greek yogurt), dijon mustard, white wine vinegar, lemon juice, shallot, olive oil, salt, and pepper.

This salad is infinitely adaptable to whatever is in your fridge. Just leave the dressing as is because it's so good.

How to Make the Best Creamy Broccoli Slaw Salad

Prep the vegetables. Cut the bottoms off the heads of broccoli so you're left with small sized florets. Then, trim the bottoms so they're not longer than 1-inch, and roughly chop.
Combine the ingredients. In a large mixing bowl or serving bowl, combine broccoli, cabbage, feta, raisins, pine nuts, and scallions.
Make the dressing. In a small mixing bowl, add mayonnaise, dijon mustard, white wine vinegar, lemon juice, shallot, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine. Slowly drizzle in olive oil and whisk until all ingredients are incorporated. You can add additional 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil if you prefer a thinner dressing.
Toss to combine. Add dressing to the slaw, and toss all ingredients together. Let the slaw sit for 30 minutes, or up to overnight in the refrigerator. Serve cold or at room temperature.

Tips and Tricks

How to make ahead and store: Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Typically, I would recommend storing salads with the dressing on the side to avoid the veggies from getting too soggy. However, the raw broccoli really holds its shape even with dressing. In fact, the longer you store the salad, the better it gets as it allows all the flavors from the dressing to infuse into the broccoli.
How to make this vegan: You can easily make this a vegan salad by substituting the mayonnaise with a vegan mayonnaise, and leaving out the feta cheese.

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Lemon Sweet Rolls

Soft and fluffy lemon sweet rolls are filled with a lemon vanilla sugar and topped with homemade lemon cream cheese icing. Packed with lemon, these lemon sticky rolls are sweet, citrusy, and tart. If you love to bake sweet baked goods, you need to try these. And the aroma that will waft in your kitchen as you bake? Amazing. It will smell like spring and summer took over your home. Who doesn't want to start their day like that?

Why You'll Love Lemon Sweet Rolls

Soft and delicious dough. When you tear apart these lemon sweet rolls, you'll be indulging even before your first bite. Imagine the steam wafting out of your first roll, exposing the soft and yummy dough. It is pure perfection.
Easy to make ahead. One of the best parts about this dough is that you can prep everything, assemble your rolls on your baking pan, and let it do its final rise overnight in the refrigerator. Which means that all you have to do in the morning is pop the pan into the oven. But these are not just a morning treat, you can enjoy lemon sweet rolls any time of day. They are the perfect treat
Up your baking game. Whether you're an experienced baker or just trying your hand after watching The Great British (or Canadian) Baking Show, baking these lemon sweet rolls will prove your skill and impress your friends. Plus, they are actually easy to make, making them one of my favourite weekend baking projects to take on.

Ingredients

To make delicious lemon sweet rolls, you will need the following ingredients.

milk
butter
egg
all-purpose flour
instant yeast
sugar
salt
lemon sugar filling - made with butter, sugar, lemon zest, and vanilla extract.
cream cheese icing - made with cream cheese (you can also substitute with mascarpone cheese), confectioners' sugar, and lemon juice.
lemon zest - optional, to sprinkle on top.

You will also need a kitchen scale (or measuring cups and spoons), mixing bowls, rolling pin, and 9x13-inch casserole pan.

How to Make the Best Lemon Sweet Rolls

Prepare the dough. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together milk, butter and egg until smooth. In another large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, yeast, sugar and salt until evenly combined. Pour the wet mixture into flour mixture. Stir well with a spatula until no dry flour is visible. Make sure to scrape off any remaining flour on the sides of the bowl.
Knead the dough. Transfer the dough mixture onto a clean and dry surface. Knead the dough for 5 minutes until it turns into a soft and smooth dough ball. Because of the high fat content (butter and milk) in this recipe, the dough is much easier to knead by hand and does not require a stand mixer.
Proof the dough.Transfer the dough back into the mixing bowl, lightly grease the dough ball with a little vegetable oil and cover with a lid. Covering the dough with oil will help prevent the dough from losing moisture and drying out. Let it rise at room temperature for 1 hour (or overnight in the refrigerator) until it doubles in size.
Shape the dough. Pour the dough onto a floured surface and use a rolling pin to roll the dough to a rectangle approximately 20x14-inches in size. Gently spread softened butter evenly over the rolled dough. Whisk together sugar, 2 tablespoons lemon zest, and vanilla extract until evenly combined. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the butter. Roll up the dough tightly into a log and pinch the end edges to seal. Cut into 12 even pieces using a knife or bench scraper, each about 1.5-inches in width.

Arrange the rolls. Arrange the rolls into a greased 9x13-inch casserole pan. Cover the pan with plastic wrap or seal it in a large Ziploc bag. Let it rise (second rise) at a warmer place for 1 hour or until the rolls double in size.

Bake. Evenly sprinkle the remaining lemon zest over the rolls, and bake in a 375 F preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Cover the pan halfway with aluminium foil if is browning too much. Let the rolls cool in the pan for 10 minutes.

How to Make Lemon Cream Cheese Icing

To make the easy lemon cream cheese icing, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the softened cream cheese on medium speed until smooth. Add confectioners' sugar and lemon juice, and beat until creamy and smooth. You can also mix together using a whisk and spatula.

Then, spread the cream cheese icing over the lemon sweet rolls and serve hot. Sprinkle extra lemon zest on top, if desired.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Use room temperature ingredients. When it comes to baking, being precise will result in success. Be sure to use room temperature ingredients-not too hot or too cold. Allow your ingredients to sit out on the counter for about an hour before you get to work.
Swap with oranges. If you want to switch this up, easily substitute the lemon with equal amount of orange to make orange sweet rolls.
How to store: Lemon sweet rolls keep best when stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also store them in the refrigerator for up to one week.
How to reheat: You can eat lemon sticky rolls at room temperature, but they taste best reheated in the microwave for 30-60 seconds. Cover with a small pad of butter and heat on a microwave-safe plate.

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Beef and Bean Burritos

Craving something hearty, filling, and warm for dinner tonight? Try these beef and bean burritos stuffed with seasoned beef, black beans, corn, rice, and more! Veggies like lettuce, tomatoes, and onion lighten up the burritos, and gooey melted cheese brings these burritos to a whole new level. Wrapped in large and tasty flour tortillas, these beef and bean burritos bring restaurant-quality Mexican food to your kitchen table in under 30 minutes.

Why You'll Love Beef and Bean Burritos

Easy and delicious. These beef and bean burritos are easy to prep and make in under 30 minutes. To be even more efficient, prep your veggies as you cook the beef. Then, all you deo is assemble the burritos, and heat them up.
Perfectly seasoned beef. Whenever you cook beef, you run the risk of having bland meat-but not with this recipe. The beef inside these beef and bean burritos is generously seasoned with cumin, chili, paprika, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Plus, tomato paste brings out umami flavors in the beef, creating a delicious filling for your hearty burritos.
Warm burritos with a crunch. After assembling these beef and bean burritos, you wrap them in foil and pop them in the oven, or heat them up on the stove to toast the tortillas for an added crunch. Unwrap the foil, and enjoy warm, toasty burritos with melted cheese. What's not to love?

Ingredients and Substitutions

ground beef
beef seasoning - made with cumin, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, dried oregano (or dried Italian seasoing), tomato paste, salt and pepper.
avocado oil - for cooking the beef. You can use any vegetable oil you have on hand.
flour tortilla wraps - I often make my own homemade flour tortillas - they are easier to make than you think!
cilantro lime rice - or substitute with any cooked rice you have. You can use white or brown rice.
lettuce
corn - you can use canned corn or frozen corn (boiled in water for 5 minutes).
black beans - I used canned black beans. You can also prepare the beans fresh from dried beans. Allow yourself enough time to cook the dried beans, as they typically need to be soaked overnight.
tomatoes
red onion
fresh cilantro
Mexican cheese blend cheese - A Mexican blend (Tex-Mex) of cheese is ideal. You can also use any cheese that shreds and melts easily such as cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack cheese.
sour cream - optional. You can add this in the burritos before heating, or serve it on the side after heated.
lime - to squeeze on some lime juice, if desired.

These beef and bean burritos have all the goodies, but if you want to alter the ingredients, you certainly can. You can substitute the beef for any other protein such as chicken or pork, or substitute pinto beans, chickpeas, and tofu for a vegetarian burrito.

To make these burritos spicier, add in some hot sauce or jalapeños.

How to Make the Best Beef and Bean Burritos

Cook the beef. Heat oil in a large skillet for 2 minutes over medium-high heat until the hot oil sizzles. Add ground beef and stir well to cook evenly until nicely browned, about 6-8 minutes. Break up the beef into small pieces to help even cooking and browning.
Season the beef. Add all seasoning including cumin, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, oregano, salt, pepper, and tomato paste. Reduce the heat to medium and let the mixture simmer for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens a bit, stirring occasionally. Turn off heat and set aside.

Assemble the burritos. On each tortilla wrap, add 2-3 tablespoons beef, ¼ cup cooked rice, lettuce, corn, black beans, tomato, onion, cilantro and cheese in the centre. Drizzle on top with sour cream and lime juice, to taste.
Wrap the burritos. Fold up the bottom to cover the filling, fold the edges and roll up tightly to seal. Make sure all corners are tightly sealed. Then, wrap each burrito tightly in aluminum foil.

Warm the burritos. You can heat the burritos in a skillet over the stove, or baked in the oven.
- On the stovetop: Heat the burritos in foil on a skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes on each side.
- In the oven: Bake the burritos in foil in a preheated 350 F oven for 20-25 minutes until warmed through and the cheese is melted inside.

Make Ahead and Storing Instructions

Make ahead instructions: These burritos are great for meal prep as they store and freeze really well. Prepare them all the way until you reach the step where you warm them up. Once you have wrapped them in foil, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days and heat it up when ready to serve.
How to store: Store leftover beef and bean burritos in their aluminum foil wrapper. If the wrap is not tight, put it in an airtight container. Store the burritos in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
How to freeze: If freezing, don't include the tomato or lettuce as they won't freeze well. Then store the burritos tightly wrapped in foil in the freezer for up to 3 months. I often make a big batch of these burritos because they store easily for an easy dinner or lunch on a busy day. To reheat, first allow the burritos to thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
How to reheat: Reheat beef and bean burritos the same way you would when cooking. Place foil-wrapped burritos in a 350F oven for 25 minutes or until heated all the way through.

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Creamy Cucumber Salad

This creamy cucumber salad is the easy, refreshing snack and side dish your summer cookouts have been missing. Fresh cucumber slices and red onions come together tossed a creamy dressing of sour cream and mayo, and seasoned with fresh dill. This cool salad can easily be made ahead of time with just 5 minutes of prep. This might be the easiest salad recipe you'll ever make. Eat it on its own as a light and refreshing lunch, or pair it with some protein for a complete dinner.

Why You'll Love Creamy Cucumber Salad

Refreshing and creamy salad. Cucumbers are good for more than just cucumber water. This cool cucumber salad is extra refreshing with added onions and fresh dill, and the creamy dressing complements these flavors beautifully.
Packed with nutrients. Cucumbers are a naturally low-calorie food, but they are high in nutrients like vitamins C and K, magnesium, potassium, and manganese. They also have healthy carbs, antioxidants, and fiber that your body needs.
A healthy side for summer cookouts. A good meal is always made better when you know that it's healthy. Cucumbers can help keep you hydrated with their high water content, and they boast other health benefits such as heart health and lowered blood sugar. It's a great way to balance out other dishes at your next BBQ or summer cookout.

Ingredients and Substitutions

To make this delicious and easy creamy cucumber salad, you will need the following ingredients:

English cucumbers - cucumbers are the start of this salad, so you want to use fresh ones. Cucumbers will typically last in the fridge for up to 2 weeks, but this recipe tastes much better when you use the freshest cucumbers. If your cucumber is wrinkled, dented, or soft, it's time to throw it away.
red onion - if you are not a fan of raw onions, you can just leave these out.
sour cream - you can substitute this with Greek yogurt.
mayonnaise
fresh dill - I prefer this salad seasoned with just dill. If you want more seasoning, you could consider adding other fresh herbs such as basil, parsley, cilantro, or oregano.
white vinegar - you can use other kinds of vinegar here, but it will slightly alter the taste. You can try balsamic vinegar, apple cider vinegar, or white wine vinegar.
garlic powder
salt and pepper - you can also add a dash of sugar for added sweetness.

You will also need measuring cups and spoons and mixing bowls.

How to Make the Best Creamy Cucumber Salad

Combine vegetables. In a large serving plate, toss to combine cucumbers and red onion.
Make the creamy dressing. In a medium bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, dill, white vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth.
Assemble. Add dressing to the cucumber and red onions, and toss to combine.
Refrigerate. Refrigerate for one hour to help the flavours infuse, then serve.

Storing Instructions

Make ahead instructions: Easily prep the ingredients ahead of time (chop up the vegetables and make the dressing). You can store the salad and dressing in separate airtight containers, or store them together. In fact, this salad taste even better after it's been assembled and then stored in the refrigerator for at least one hour, up to overnight.
How to store: Creamy cucumber salad will last in the fridge for up to 3 days. While you can eat it after 3 days, the vinegar could cause the cucumbers to become a little limp. Eat it up while those veggies are crisp and delicious!

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40 Mother's Day Dessert Recipes

The best way to treat Mom this Mother's Day is by baking her something sweet, rich and decadent from scratch. So if you are looking for the best Mother's Day desserts, then you have come to the right place. We have rounded up over 40 of our best and most popular Mother's Day dessert recipes including spring cakes and cookies, feminine and pink treats, rich and decadent chocolate desserts, sweet brunch items such as scones and muffins, and so much more.

Best Mother's Day Dessert Recipes

Strawberry Shortcake

Classic Strawberry Shortcake is a small, layered cake featuring fluffy crumbly biscuits, a fresh strawberry filling, and homemade whipped cream.

Lemon Sweet Rolls

Soft and fluffy lemon sweet rolls are filled with a lemon vanilla sugar and topped with homemade lemon cream cheese icing. They're sweet, citrusy, and tart.

Madeleines

Classic Madeleines are soft spongy mini cakes with a signature shell shape and dusting of sugar on top. Making French butter cakes is easier than you think!

Strawberry Cupcakes

Strawberry Cupcakes are made with real strawberries in both the tender cake batter and the creamy strawberry buttercream frosting. A picture-perfect treat!

Glazed Lemon Blueberry Scones

Glazed lemon blueberry scones are total breakfast goals. Blueberries and lemon partner together in a light, tender and flakey scone, drizzled with a sweet lemon glaze that is nothing short of impressive.

Persian Love Cake

Persian Love Cake is a rich, moist, and nutty almond cake loaded with floral and citrus flavors, topped with a lemon glaze, pistachios, and rose petals.

Carrot Bundt Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze

Showstopping carrot bundt cake with cream cheese glaze is light, fluffy, and moist. It's loaded with sugar, spice, and everything nice -- including grated carrots.

Nutella Crepes

Nutella crepes with berries are sweet and indulgent. These French pancakes are an easy to make blender recipe that will have you craving breakfast all day.

Strawberry Muffins

Strawberry Muffins are tender, fluffy, and delicious! They are golden-brown and crisp outside while moist and cake-like inside and loaded with strawberries.

Raspberry and White Chocolate Shortbread Cookies

Cute raspberry and white chocolate heart-shaped shortbread cookies literally melt in your mouth. They are the perfect Mother's Day treat.

Cute raspberry and white chocolate heart-shaped shortbread cookies literally melt in your mouth. They are the perfect Valentine's Day treat. | aheadofthyme.com

French Macarons with Vanilla Buttercream Filling

Easy French macarons with vanilla buttercream filling are sweet, light, airy, and delicate cookies that melt in your mouth. Beginners can make them too!

Classic New York Cheesecake

Classic New York Cheesecake is stunning, delicious, rich, and creamy. Plus, it's surprisingly easy to make from scratch - even for beginners!

Mother's Day Vanilla Cupcakes with Rose Petal Buttercream

Light, airy and fluffy vanilla cupcakes with rose petal buttercream icing is the cutest treat for Easter. They are super quick and easy to make. One of my favorite Mother's Day recipes.

Light, airy and fluffy vanilla cupcakes with rose petal buttercream icing is the cutest treat for Mother’s Day. They are super quick and easy to make. | aheadofthyme.com

Sourdough Cinnamon Roll Twist Bread

Soft and fluffy sourdough cinnamon roll twist bread is buttery and layered with cinnamon sugar. Prep it the night before and freshly bake it for breakfast.

Moist Chocolate Cupcakes

Moist chocolate cupcakes topped with chocolate buttercream frosting and sprinkles, are a chocolate triple threat. They're rich, decadent, sweet, and easy to make.

Lemon Loaf with Lemon Glaze

Inspired by Starbucks lemon loaf, this moist, homemade lemon loaf with lemon glaze has the perfect balance between sweet and tangy, and so so flavourful.

Chocolate Covered Strawberries

Chocolate covered strawberries are fancy, decadent, bite-sized treats that are loved by all. They are so simple and easy to make at home.

Carrot Cake Muffins

Carrot cake muffins are moist, light, chewy and full of carrots which means breakfast this week is healthy! Carrot muffins are great for meal prep too.

Butter Cookies

Butter cookies are a classic cookie with a crisp, slightly crunchy texture that melts in your mouth on the first bite - and every bite after!

Nutella Mousse Cups

Nutella mousse cups are rich, creamy, airy, and delicious. No bake and whipped together in just minutes with a few ingredients before it's ready to chill.

Cinnamon Raisin Challah Bread with Almonds

Sweet cinnamon raisin challah bread is airy, soft and fluffy with a beautiful golden crust coated with almonds. It is braided and baked in a loaf pan.

Dark Chocolate Raspberry Truffles

Dark chocolate raspberry truffles are so much easier to make than you think. It's as simple as combining quality chocolate, cream, raspberry jam, and cocoa.

Carrot Cake Biscotti

Carrot cake biscotti is crunchy, crumbly, and satisfies all your carrot cake cravings. Enjoy these Italian cookies as is or with white chocolate.

Caramel Cheesecake Brownies

Caramel cheesecake brownies are totally indulgent and worth the effort, so toss that prepared brownie mix away and bake this with a few easy ingredients.

Baked Jelly Donuts with Strawberry Jam

These melt-in-your-mouth, homemade baked jelly donuts, coated in sugar and filled with sweet strawberry jam, are so soft, fluffy, spongy and airy.

Lemon Meringue Pie

Lemon Meringue Pie made with delicate peaks of golden-brown meringue, creamy and tart lemon curd filling, and flaky pie crust is the best homemade pie ever!

Vanilla Cake Pops

The cutest bite-sized treat to serve at any event are vanilla cake pops from scratch -- luckily, they are actually simple and easy to make. Add pink or red food colouring to the chocolate coating, or use red and pink sprinkles to make them festive and feminine for Mother's Day.

Oreo Brownies

Oreo Brownies are a fudgy, rich and decadent dessert that is quick and easy to make from scratch in about 30 minutes using simple ingredients.

Chocolate and Vanilla Marble Cake

Chocolate and vanilla marble cake is delicious, moist, fluffy with the perfect golden brown crust. With two classic cake flavors, this loaf cake has it all.

Carrot Cake Shortbread Cookies

Carrot cake shortbread cookies are sweet and buttery, packed with carrots and walnuts, and spiced like your favourite carrot cake. A total treat.

Glazed Brown Sugar Bundt Cake

No one will be able to resist this perfectly sweet and moist, glazed brown sugar bundt cake. Made with Greek yogurt for major decadence and richness.

Blueberry Yogurt Muffins

Blueberry yogurt muffins are buttery, moist, soft, and cakey and bursting with blueberries in every single bite. They are super quick and easy to make. Some other muffins to try are spiced carrot muffins or apple oatmeal muffins or banana chocolate chip muffins.

Slice and Bake Pecan Shortbread Cookies

Easy slice and bake pecan shortbread cookies are sweet, nutty and buttery shortbread cookies packed with finely chopped pecans that melt in your mouth.

Molten Chocolate Lava Cakes

Molten chocolate lava cakes are rich and fudgy with a classic gooey chocolate center that flows out like lava. So simple and easy to make.

Easy Small Batch Almond Biscotti

Small batch almond biscotti are crunchy, crumbly and packed with almonds, perfect for dunking into tea, coffee, or hot chocolate, and they are super easy to make. Plus, mom can take home any leftovers since they can be stored for weeks.

Small batch almond biscotti are crunchy, crumbly and packed with almonds, perfect for dunking into tea or coffee, and they are super easy to make. | aheadofthyme.com

Double Chocolate Loaf Cake

This fudgy double chocolate loaf cake is delicious, moist, and rich. It's easy to make with a quick one-bowl batter that's ready for the oven in 10 minutes.

Salted Caramel Sauce

Homemade salted caramel sauce is sweet, salty, and buttery. It's so simple and easy to make at home in just 10 minutes with 4 basic ingredients.

Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins

Fluffy soft and moist, these are the best banana chocolate chip muffins ever. Prep this easy one bowl recipe in less than 10 minutes with a few ingredients.

Easy Homemade Apple Hand Pies

Easy homemade apple turnovers are the perfect fall treat -- stuffed with tender apples and cinnamon and wrapped in crispy, flakey, buttery crust.

M&M Cookie Bars

M&M cookie bars are soft and chewy, have crisp edges with a gooey center, and are loaded with M&M's and chocolate chips. The easiest way to bake cookies!

Healthy Banana Bread

Healthy banana bread is delicious and moist and contains no refined sugar or butter. Quick and easy to make with 10 minutes prep and few pantry staples.

Burnt Basque Cheesecake

Easy no crust burnt Basque cheesecake is the easiest one bowl recipe. It is perfectly caramelized on the top and edges and creamy yet firm on the inside.

Heart Sugar Cookies

These heart sugar cookies are crisp on the outside, soft inside, and made festive with red and pink royal icing decorated on top. Use any cookie cutters to make different shapes.

Chocolate Chunk Peanut Butter Cookies

These perfectly soft, chewy and a little crumby chocolate chunk peanut butter cookies literally melts in your mouth. Make them in under 20 minutes.

Caramel Pecan Cheesecake Bars

Decadent caramel pecan cheesecake bars with a graham cracker crust, cheesecake filling, and caramel pecan topping is perfect for any special occasion.

Decadent caramel pecan pie cheesecake bars with a graham cracker crust, cheesecake filling, and caramel pecan topping is perfect for Thanksgiving this fall. | aheadofthyme.com

Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Cookies

Brown butter oatmeal chocolate chip banana bread cookie bites are thick, fluffy, pillowy, cake-like little bites of banana bread heaven.

Pecan Toffee Bars

These pecan toffee bars combine the flavours of shortbread topped with crunchy nuts to create magic. Prepped in under 10 minutes with only 6 ingredients.

Jam-Filled Thumbprint Cookies with Almond Glaze

Soft, buttery, melt-in-your mouth jam-filled thumbprint cookies with almond glaze are the cutest, festive treat to make.

The Best Chewy Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Cookies

Grab a tall glass of milk and start dipping the best homemade, soft-centered, chewy chocolate chip oatmeal cookies you will ever try.

How to Make Ahead and Store Mother's Day Treats

You can make or prepare most of these Mother's Day dessert recipes ahead of time. You can store the cookies at room temperature for a few days and the cakes for about 1-2 days (depending on the recipe). You can also store them in the refrigerator for up to one week or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Confirm storing instructions by checking each recipe.

To reheat any of these desserts and serve them warm as if they just came out of the oven, you can warm them up in a 300F preheated oven for about 5-15 minutes. I would check on it every 5 minutes until warmed through. If heating from frozen, let it thaw first and then reheat.

Did You Make Any of These Mother's Day Dessert Recipes?

Please leave a comment and rating below, and let me know what you thought of this round up of Mother's Day dessert recipes. Be sure to snap a picture and tag me on Instagram @aheadofthyme or share it on the Pinterest pin so that I can follow along.

HUNGRY FOR MORE? Don't forget to sign up for my email newsletter so that you don't miss any recipes. You can also follow along on Instagram and Pinterest for more recipe updates.

Salted Caramel Sauce

Homemade salted caramel sauce is sweet, salty, and buttery. It's so simple and easy to make at home in just 10 minutes with 4 basic ingredients. Once you try it at home, you will never go back to store-bought caramel sauce again. The best part? You can make a batch and enjoy it for weeks over your favourite desserts (or months if you freeze it!).

Why You'll Love Salted Caramel Sauce

It's quick and easy to make. Making salted caramel sauce at home takes just 10 minutes to make and you don't need any special kitchen gadgets like a candy thermometer. You only need a shallow saucepan and 4 simple ingredients that you likely already have at home (unlike its store-bought counterpart which are typically sweetened with fructose and artificial flavors).
It has the perfect texture. This caramel sauce is thick, smooth, buttery, and creamy. Unlike some of the store-bought sauces that can be quite runny, this caramel sauce can hold it's shape quite well as it cools and sets.
You can add it to any dessert. There are so many ways to use this homemade salted caramel sauce to take your desserts and baked goods to the next level, with its iconic sweet caramel taste. Drizzle it over cakes, brownies, cookies, cheesecake, and ice cream. Add it to ice cream or a milkshake. Use it as a dip or jam. The options are endless.

Ingredients

To make this delicious and indulgent homemade salted caramel sauce, you will need the following simple ingredients:

sugar
butter - use unsalted butter for this recipe. If you only have salted butter, you can use it but cut down the salt by half.
heavy cream
salt

You will also need measuring cups and spoons, a shallow saucepan, and an airtight container or mason jar for storing.

How to Make the Best Homemade Salted Caramel Sauce

Melt sugar. Heat sugar in a large shallow saucepan over medium-high heat. Whisk continuously as the sugar as it begins to melt. It will form clumps but will eventually melt completely. This can take 10-15 minutes. Continue to stir continuously until the sugar reaches a deep amber colour. Keep a close eye because the sugar will burn if you overcook.

Add butter. Add the butter (note that the butter will immediately begin bubbling and may splatter, so be careful). Whisk until the butter is completely melted, then cook for 1 minute without stirring.
Add cream and salt. Slowly pour in the heavy cream and whisk until combined in the mixture. Again, be careful as the mixture will bubble and may splatter. Whisk in the salt until combined.

Cool. Remove from heat and allow the sauce to cool in the saucepan for 10 minutes. The caramel will thicken as it cools.

How to Use Salted Caramel Sauce

This creamy and smooth salted caramel sauce can be used in so many ways. Here are some ways to use this sauce:

Use it as a sweet dip. Dip your favourite fruit into this caramel and taste heaven in your mouth. One of my favourite fruit to use are apples, especially Granny Smith apples. The flavours are so complementary.
Make caramel hot chocolate. Add a spoonful into your hot chocolate for a new take on a classic drink.
Drizzle it over baked goods. Drizzle salted caramel sauce over your favourite baked goods, such as apple pie, cinnamon rolls, scones, or crepes.
Add it over ice cream. Caramel sauce and ice cream are such a staple together. Try it with no churn homemade vanilla ice cream. Or add some sauce into a classic vanilla milkshake for a new flavor.
Use it in cheesecake. Swirl this sauce into caramel cheesecake brownies, or drizzle it over caramel pecan pie cheesecake bars.
Use it as a macaron filling. Add a dollop of salted caramel sauce in between your vanilla macaron shells to make salted caramel macarons.
Make salted caramel popcorn. Toss your popcorn with some of this sauce to create a delicious sweet and salty caramel popcorn.

Storing and Freezing Instructions

How to store: Store salted caramel sauce in an airtight container or mason jar at room temperature for a day or two, or in the refrigerator for up to one month. If stored in the refrigerator, it may have hardened up a little. You can warm up the caramel over the stovetop or in the microwave before using to make it easier to drizzle.
How to freeze: You can freeze salted caramel sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 months in the freezer. To use, allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator or for a few hours at room temperature.

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Air Fryer Broccoli

If you own an air fryer, you know that almost anything can be made faster and even more delicious with the power of air frying- especially broccoli! Crispy air fryer broccoli is a healthy side dish that complements any main course so well. It's seasoned with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and salt, which packs on so much flavor. The best part? This quick and easy side takes only takes six minutes to cook. When it comes to last-minute recipe ideas, air fryer broccoli is one you need in your back pocket.

Why You'll Love Air Fryer Broccoli

Broccoli is a superfood. This popular veggie is packed with nutrients and antioxidants, including iron, potassium, calcium, selenium, magnesium, folic acid, and vitamins A, C, E, K, and B! Air fryer broccoli is a side dish that you can feel good about eating.
The joy of fried food without the grease. Cooking in an air fryer creates food that tastes delicious (if not better than when made using other cooking methods), and it's much better for your health than traditional frying. Plus, it also takes the hassle out of cooking in the oven and cooks in a fraction of the time.
You only need about 10 minutes. Even if you wait until your main dish is ready to serve, before you start cooking air fryer broccoli, you won't hold up dinner. This side dish takes just 6 minutes in the air fryer-but it tastes like it took way longer!

Ingredients and Substitutions

To make quick and easy air fryer broccoli, you will need the following ingredients:

broccoli florets
olive oil
garlic powder
Italian seasoning - you can substitute with any dried herbs such as dried oregano or thyme.
salt
for serving - you can serve with grated Parmesan cheese on top and a squeeze of lemon juice, if desired.

You will also need measuring cups and spoons, a mixing bowl, and an air fryer.

How to Make the Best Air Fryer Broccoli

Combine ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, combine all ingredients. Toss to combine until well mixed.
Cook in the air fryer. Transfer the seasoned broccoli into the air fryer basket. Cook it at 400 F for 6-8 minutes, shaking the basket every 3 minutes, until browned and crispy on the edges.
Serve. Serve warm with grated Parmesan cheese on top, if desired.

Tips and Tricks

Quick clean-up tip: If you want to lighten your load when cleaning the air fryer, line the basket with a piece of aluminium foil.
How to store: First, allow the broccoli to cool to room temperature. Then, place any leftovers in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
How to reheat: You can reheat air fryer broccoli the same way you cooked it. Place in the air fryer at 350F for a few minutes until warmed through. Reheating time may vary depending on how much you try to reheat.

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Shrimp Taco Salad

Shrimp taco salad is flavourful, delicious, and so easy to make. It has all the fixings and flavors of your favorite shrimp tacos, but without the mess. This light meal is packed with seasoned shrimp, healthy fresh veggies, crushed tortilla chips, and homemade cilantro lime dressing. The best part? This delicious taco bowl comes together in about 20 minutes. It's the perfect, quick and easy meal to serve for lunch or dinner -- especially on busy summer weeknights.

Why You'll Love Shrimp Taco Salad

It is healthy and nutritious. Shrimp is seafood that is bursting with health benefits. It provides lots of nutrients, minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids. So, this shrimp taco salad is something you can feel good about eating!
Quick and easy to make. Just like Beef Taco Salad, you can prep all the vegetables while you cook the shrimp, to make the most efficient use of your time. Plus, you can cook the shrimp in the oven, air fryer, or on the stove. Whichever way is the most convenient for you!
Packed with the perfect blend of veggies. Romaine lettuce forms the bed of this salad, but a palette of color and flavor comes from purple cabbage, corn, avocado, cilantro, and tomatoes. While you can adjust the ingredients in this salad, you don't want to miss out on any of these flavors.
Fresh cilantro lime dressing. When paired with a fresh homemade Creamy Cilantro Lime Dressing, this shrimp taco salad gets even better! The creamy dressing compliments everything, especially the seasoned shrimp.

Ingredients and Substitutions

To make this delicious and easy shrimp taco salad, you will need the following ingredients:

shrimp - You will need one pound of white shrimp. To prepare them, use scissors to cut through the shell along the back of the prawns, and remove the shells and tails. Rinse to remove the veins and pat dry with paper towel.
shrimp taco seasoning - made with olive oil, ground cumin, chili powder (optional for a kick), paprika, garlic powder, dried oregano (or Italian seasoning), salt, and ground black pepper.
romaine lettuce
grape tomatoes
purple cabbage
avocado
corn - you can use canned corn or frozen corn (boiled in water for 5 minutes).
tortilla chips - I typically use plain unsalted tortilla chips, but you can also use seasoned tortilla chips such as Doritos. You can also use tortilla strips.
cilantro lime dressing - it's really easy to make homemade creamy cilantro lime dressing in about 5 minutes. You can also store-bought dressing or lime crema. Whatever is easier.
lime wedges - optional, for a squeeze of extra lime juice.

The best thing about shrimp taco salad is that it's completely customizable. Add in any of your favorite taco fixings such as pico de gallo salsa, black beans, jalapeños, onions, queso, or hot sauce.

How to Make the Best Shrimp Taco Salad

Prepare the shrimp. In a medium bowl, add shrimp, olive oil, cumin, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, oregano, salt and pepper. Toss well to coat and set aside to marinate for 15 minutes (if you have the time).
Cook the shrimp. You can cook the shrimp in one of 3 ways -- in the oven, air fryer, or over the stove.
- To cook in the oven: Spread the shrimp evenly on a parchment lined quarter sheet baking pan and bake in a 400 F preheated oven for 8-10 minutes until the shrimp turns pink.
- To cook in the air fryer: Cook the shrimp in the air fryer at 350 F for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket once halfway through.
- To cook on the stovetop: Sauté over medium-high heat for 5 minutes until shrimp turns pink and nicely browned.
Assemble. In a large serving bowl, add all salad ingredients including lettuce, tomatoes, purple cabbage, avocado, corn, tortilla chips (or tortilla strips), and cooked shrimp.
Serve. Drizzle cilantro lime dressing on top and toss to combine.

Tips and Tricks

How to store and make ahead: If you anticipate having leftovers, serve the tortilla chips and shrimp on the side, and add it to your individually portioned out salad. This will prevent your chips from getting soggy and your shrimp from spoiling the rest of the salad if they go bad first. Plus, when stored separately you can easily reheat the shrimp and add it to the leftover salad the next day. The salad base will last in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The shrimp will keep for 3-4 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
How to substitute with other protein: If you are craving this salad but are thinking of using other protein, you totally can. Consider using salmon, cod, scallops, or another one of your favorite kinds of seafood in its place. Keep in mind that this recipe is designed to let the flavor of the shrimp come through, so proteins like chicken or beef are not the best substitution.

More Shrimp Recipes

For more Mexican-inspired recipes, check out these 30 Best Mexican Recipes.

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Creamy Cilantro Lime Dressing

Nothing beats homemade creamy cilantro lime dressing. It's fresh, vibrant, easy to make, and tastes so much better than store-bought salad dressing. Packed with cilantro, lime juice, and Greek yogurt, this dressing is creamy, smooth, tangy, and flavourful. The best part? You can make it in just 5 minutes and drizzle it over everything including salads, tacos, vegetables, and more.

Why You'll Love Creamy Cilantro Lime Dressing

Fresh simple ingredients. For this recipe, you'll need some simple ingredients including two whole cups of fresh cilantro, freshly-squeezed lime juice, and fresh garlic. The result? A delicious creamy cilantro dressing that tastes fresh and tangy.
It's an easy blender recipe. Making this dressing is so quick and easy. You just throw all the ingredients into a blender or food processor, and puree to blend. Who needs store-bought when it's this easy and delicious to make homemade salad dressing?
It goes with everything. Use this dressing on salads, on tacos and tostadas, on fajitas, dip your quesadillas or enchiladas in it, or serve it with breakfast. It seriously pairs well with almost anything you can imagine: chicken, beef, fish, veggies, rice, grilled vegetables, and potatoes. Make one batch of this creamy cilantro lime dressing, and you'll be enjoying it all week!

Ingredients and Substitutions

To make this easy and delicious creamy cilantro lime dressing, you will need the following ingredients:

fresh cilantro - you need a heaping 2 cups of cilantro (approximately one bunch), and use both the leaves and the stems. When washing the cilantro, be sure to dry it very thoroughly. Otherwise the leftover water will significantly thin out the dressing and make it less flavorful. The cilantro bunches I use are about 2 cups packed, and weigh 3.5 ounces with the stems.
lime juice - this adds a tangy citrusy punch to the dressing. Use freshly-squeezed lime juice for the best results.
Greek yogurt - this adds the creaminess to the dressing. You can also substitute this with sour cream. If you are not sure whether to use Greek yogurt or sour cream for this recipe, choose whichever one you like to eat more. Note that sour cream has more calories and fat content, which makes it the more indulgent option, while Greek yogurt is generally healthier.
garlic
olive oil
honey - balances out all the flavours. You can also substitute this with maple syrup.
dried oregano - you can substitute this with Italian seasoning blend.
salt
jalapeño - I did not use any, but you can certainly add some if you prefer a spicier dressing. It's completely up to you.

You will also need measuring cups and spoons, a blender or food processor, and a mason jar or airtight container to store the dressing in if not using it all right away.

How to Make the Best Cilantro Lime Dressing

Blend the ingredients. Place ¼ cup Greek yogurt along with all remaining ingredients into a food processor or blender. Pulse mix to until combined and blended. You do not want to blend it until completely smooth as you want to keep the dressing slightly textured with bits of cilantro visible.
Stir in more yogurt. Transfer the dressing to a small bowl and add remaining ¼ cup of Greek yogurt. Stir with a spoon until combined. Adjust with more salt or honey to taste, if needed.
Serve. Use as desired over your favorite salads or meals.

How to Store

While this homemade creamy cilantro lime dressing is much tastier than store-bought dressing, it won't last as long since it doesn't contain preservatives. The shelf life of your dressing depends on the freshness of your cilantro. If you use the freshest ingredients, your dressing will stay good for up to 7-10 days in the refrigerator in an airtight container or mason jar.

How to Serve Cilantro Lime Dressing

Creamy cilantro lime dressing goes with everything! You can serve it on:

Salads. Try it with Shrimp Taco Salad or Beef Taco Salad.
Tacos. Try it in Fish Tacos, Shrimp Tacos, or Vegan Chickpea Tacos.
Fajitas. Try it over Skillet Chicken Fajitas or Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas.
Tostadas. Try it on Shrimp Avocado Tostadas
Rice. Try it over Cilantro Lime Rice.

It's also delicious drizzled over grilled meat or vegetables, or use it as a marinade for your meat. So make a batch or two to last you all week!

More Salad Recipes with Homemade Dressing

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Mascarpone Pesto Pasta

Mascarpone pesto pasta is the easiest and tastiest creamy pasta you'll ever make. It's made with simple ingredients including mascarpone cheese which brings a light and silky texture to the sauce, basil pesto which brings all the flavour, and tomatoes which add a burst of freshness. If you want to make an impressive Italian meal at home with little time and effort, this creamy pesto pasta is the recipe for you. Make it in under 15 minutes and revel at how amazing it tastes!

Why You'll Love Mascarpone Pesto Pasta

A quick and easy weeknight dinner. This recipe comes together seamlessly in under 15 minutes. Essentially, all you need to do is cook your pasta and combine all the ingredients in a bowl. Voila-you're ready to serve. This quick pasta dish is seriously a lifesaver on busy weeknights. You need to have this one in your back pocket.
It is packed with flavor. Basil pesto adds a fresh and vibrant flavor to this weeknight pasta dish. Whether you choose store-bought or homemade pesto for this mascarpone pesto pasta, you can't go wrong. Most commonly made from pine nuts, olive oil, fresh basil, parmesan cheese, and seasoning, basil pesto is a must-have ingredient in any kitchen. For more recipes using pesto, try Avocado Basil Pesto Spaghetti, Pesto Penne Pasta, Spring Pesto Pasta with Asparagus, and Pesto Hummus.
It is ultra creamy and smooth. The secret to the creaminess of this pasta is mascarpone cheese and reserved pasta water. And if you've never had mascarpone cheese, you've been missing out. Made from only two ingredients (heavy cream and citric acid), mascarpone cheese is the silkier and smoother cousin of cream cheese. The high fat content makes this cheese light yet indulgent-and it's the perfect ingredient to add to pasta.

Ingredients

To make quick and easy mascarpone pesto pasta, you need the following simple ingredients:

pasta - I used spaghetti noodles, but you can substitute with any kind of pasta that you like.
olive oil - I add this immediately after cooking the pasta to prevent the noodles from sticking to each other.
basil pesto - I used fresh homemade basil pesto which I made in just 5 minutes. You can also use store-bought pesto. Do whatever is easier for you!
mascarpone cheese - some people substitute mascarpone with cream cheese, but the fat content and flavor will alter this dish immensely. If you're having trouble finding mascarpone at your local grocery store, consider making your own! All you need is heavy cream and lemon juice.
lemon juice - adds a burst of flavor.
cherry tomatoes
salt and pepper
Parmesan cheese - optional, for serving on top.
fresh basil - optional, for garnish.

You will also need a large cooking pot and a mixing bowl.

How to Make the Best Mascarpone Pesto Pasta

Cook the pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package instructions or until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Do not overcook the pasta. Turn off the heat and reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta in a colander and let it cool for 1 minute.
Toss with remaining ingredients. Transfer pasta into a large mixing bowl and add pesto, mascarpone cheese, lemon juice and ½ cup reserved pasta water (add up to ½ cup more if desired). Stir in cherry tomatoes, and season with salt and pepper. Toss well to coat.

Serve. Top with fresh basil, Parmesan cheese, some dollops of pesto, and a drizzle of olive oil. Serve immediately.

Storing and Reheating Instructions

How to store: While the best practice for storing pasta is to keep it separate from the sauce, this mascarpone pesto pasta can be stored (sauce and all) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-5 days.
How to reheat: Heat in a skillet or shallow saucepan over low heat. You may need to add a splash of water if the sauce has thickened to much when stored in the refrigerator. You can also reheat in the microwave covered in a microwave-safe container in 20-second intervals until hot all the way through, mixing often to distribute the heat.

More Pasta Recipes

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Mexican Tuna Cakes (Tortitas de Atun)

Mexican tuna cakes, also known as tortitas de atun are quick, easy, and delicious. These tasty tuna patties are made with canned tuna, veggies, and flavourful spices, then breaded and pan-fried. They are warm and soft on the inside, with a crispy crunch on the outside. Dip them into a creamy aioli or just plain mayo, and you've got the perfect snack. The best part about these tuna croquettes? They come together in about 20 minutes. It's the perfect dish to make on busy weeknights or any day of the week.

Why You'll Love Mexican Tuna Cakes (Tortitas De Atun)

Canned tuna is a staple. Canned fish is a pantry staple, an easy ingredient to keep on hand, and it's even easier to cook with. If you're someone who avoids cooking fish because you've never done it before, this is the perfect recipe to introduce you to cooking with seafood.
The thick, crispy, Parmesan breading. Fried foods hit differently, and these Mexican tuna cakes deliver the decadent textures and flavors you want when eating fried food, but without the deep-frying. The breading on these tuna cakes are so crispy, thick, and delicious that you'll be craving tortitas de atun when you least expect it.
Packed with nutrient-rich flavor. As if using a lean protein like tuna wasn't enough, these Mexican tuna cakes also include fresh carrots, onions, and cilantro. These veggies add flavor and nutrients to your tortitas de atun.

Ingredients

To make these delicious Mexican tuna cakes, you will need the following ingredients:

canned tuna
breadcrumbs
eggs
onion
fresh cilantro
carrot
lemon juice
seasoning - garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
breading - made with breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese. You can also use an egg to make a thicker coating.
vegetable oil - for pan-frying.
for serving - you can serve with mayonnaise, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice.

You will also need measuring cups and spoons, mixing bowl, and a large skillet or frying pan (I used a cast-iron skillet).

How to Make the Best Mexican Tuna Cakes (Tortitas de Atun)

Make the tuna patties. In a large mixing bowl, add canned tuna, breadcrumbs, eggs, onions, cilantro, carrots, lemon juice, garlic powder, paprika, salt and pepper. Stir well until evenly combined. Take ¼ cup of the tuna mixture at a time and firmly roll into patties, about 8-9 patties. Set aside.

Coat the patties with breading. In a shallow plate, make the breading by whisking together breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese until combined. Dip both sides of each patty into the breadcrumb mixture to coat and gently press breadcrumbs into the patties to adhere as much as possible. (If you want a thicker breading, prepare a shallow plate for beaten egg and dip patties in the egg and evenly coat, and then coat completely with the breadcrumb mixture. Shake off any excess breadcrumbs).

Pan fry the tuna cakes. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat for 2 minutes until the hot oil sizzles. Gently add the breaded tuna cakes in the skillet and pan fry until nicely browned, about 4-5 minutes on each side. You can likely fit 4-5 tuna cakes at a time. Remove from pan and let rest for 5 minutes. Repeat with remaining tuna cakes.
Serve. Serve with a side of mayonnaise, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, and lime wedges, if desired.

Tips and Tricks

How to store: Tortitas de atun are best served hot and fresh. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Let them cool completely before placing them in the container to avoid condensation and soggy tuna cakes.
How to reheat: Mexican tuna cakes are best reheated in the oven at 350F for 8-10 minutes until warmed all the way through. You can also reheat them in the microwave in 20 second increments until warmed through.
How to make your own aioli: These Mexican tuna cakes taste best when served with mayonnaise or aioli (a mix of mayonnaise and other ingredients). You can easily make your own aioli by mixing in your favorite sauce, like barbecue, ketchup, or hot sauce, with some mayo!