Chicken Skewers

Chicken Skewers

Chicken Skewers

If you’re looking for a dish that combines flavor, simplicity, and a touch of exotic flair, these Chicken Satay Skewers are exactly what you need. Inspired by the beloved Indonesian street food, this recipe transforms tender chicken breast into a culinary delight with the help of a rich marinade made from aromatic spices. Grilled to perfection, these skewers are not just a feast for the eyes but also a delight for the taste buds.

Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, making it a great choice for those looking to maintain or build muscle while keeping fat intake in check. This recipe, combined with the creamy peanut butter sauce, offers a balanced meal that’s both filling and nutritious. The peanut butter sauce adds a unique combination of sweet, salty, and spicy flavors that elevate the dish to another level, making it a must-try for any home cook. Perfect as an appetizer, main course, or even as a fun addition to a barbecue, these Chicken Satay Skewers are sure to impress. Including chicken in your regular diet provides high-quality protein and essential vitamins and minerals, such as B6 and B12, which are vital for maintaining energy levels and overall health.

Let’s get started on making this delicious dish!

Ingredients

For Chicken Skewers:

  • 400 g chicken breast
  • 2 large garlic cloves
  • 8 g fresh ginger
  • 1 tbsp. sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp. maple syrup or other sweetener
  • 1 tbsp. soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp. white vinegar
  • ½ tsp. salt
  • Black pepper to taste

For Peanut Butter Sauce:

  • ⅓ cup unsweetened peanut butter
  • 2 tbsp. sesame oil
  • 2 tbsp. soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp. maple syrup or other sweetener
  • 2 tbsp. lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp. Tabasco sauce (or sriracha sauce)
  • 1 garlic clove
  • 5 g fresh ginger
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Directions

  1. Marinate chicken strips in a mixture of minced garlic, minced ginger, sesame oil, maple syrup, soy sauce, white vinegar, salt, and black pepper for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Thread marinated chicken strips onto wooden skewers.
  3. Grill chicken skewers on a preheated grill pan over medium-high heat for 8-10 minutes, until golden brown and fragrant.
  4. Prepare peanut butter sauce by combining peanut butter, sesame oil, soy sauce, maple syrup, lemon juice, Tabasco sauce, minced garlic, minced ginger, salt, and black pepper.
  5. Serve grilled chicken skewers with peanut butter sauce for dipping or drizzling.

Nutritional Information

Per 1 Serving of chicken skewers:

  • Energy: 307 calories
  • Protein: 28.36 g
  • Fat: 17.86 g
  • Carbohydrates: 6.93 g
  • Fiber: 0.2 g

Notes:

  • The peanut butter sauce is a must-try with these chicken satay skewers.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 3 days.

Prep Time and Servings

  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 15 minutes (Skillet cooking)
  • Servings: 3 servings

Storage and Recommendations:

  • Storage: Store any leftover chicken skewers and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Recommendations: These skewers are perfect for serving at a party as an appetizer or as a main dish paired with jasmine rice or a fresh salad.
Creamy Cauliflower Casserole

Creamy Cauliflower Casserole

Creamy Cauliflower Casserole

Cauliflower is truly having its moment, and this Creamy Cauliflower Casserole is a perfect example of why this versatile vegetable deserves a spot in your regular meal rotation. Packed with antioxidants, choline, sulforaphane, and other essential nutrients, cauliflower is much more than just a low-carb alternative. It plays a significant role in supporting overall health, aiding in detoxification, and providing anti-inflammatory benefits.

This dish brings together the creamy richness of béchamel sauce with the delicate flavor of cauliflower, making it a comforting and satisfying choice for any meal.

Whether you’re looking to sneak more vegetables into your diet or simply want a cozy side dish to complement your main course, this casserole is a delicious and nutritious option. The blend of cheeses adds a delightful savory touch, while the cauliflower provides a light, yet hearty texture that makes this dish both indulgent and healthful. Make this Creamy Cauliflower Casserole part of your weekly meal plan, and enjoy the benefits of this nutrient-rich vegetable in the most delicious way possible.

Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

For the Cauliflower part:

  • 1 medium-sized head of cauliflower (700 g)
  • ½ tsp. salt
  • Ground black pepper to taste
  • ½ tsp. dried onion
  • ½ tsp. dried garlic
  • 3 tbsp. olive oil

For the Béchamel Sauce:

  • 45 g butter
  • 3 tbsp. all-purpose flour
  • 600 ml milk (1% fat)
  • ½ tsp. salt
  • Black pepper to taste
  • ⅛ tsp. nutmeg
  • 30 g Grana Padano cheese or Parmesan cheese
  • 70 g Gouda cheese

Directions

  1. Prepare cauliflower florets with salt, pepper, dried onion, dried garlic, and olive oil.
  2. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes.
  3. In a pan, melt butter, add flour, and cook until golden. While stirring continuously, gradually add milk, salt, pepper, and nutmeg to create the béchamel sauce. Set aside.
  4. Pour béchamel sauce over baked cauliflower.
  5. Top with Grana Padano or Parmesan cheese and Gouda cheese.
  6. Bake for an additional 20 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and the flavors to meld.
  7. Serve and enjoy your creamy cauliflower casserole as a comforting lunch or dinner!

Nutritional Information

Per 1 Serving:

  • Energy: 345 calories
  • Protein: 12.44 g
  • Fat: 25.9 g
  • Carbohydrates: 18.02 g
  • Fiber: 2.9 g

Notes:

  • If you prefer skipping the initial baking of the cauliflower, you can simply boil the cauliflower for 5-7 minutes.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and in the freezer for up to 1 month.

Prep Time and Servings

  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Baking Time: 45 minutes + 20 minutes
  • Servings: 5 servings

Storage and Recommendations

  • Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 1 month.
  • Recommendations: Serve this casserole alongside a light salad for a balanced meal, or pair it with roasted meats for a heartier dish.
Spinach Mushroom Gravy

Spinach Mushroom Gravy

Spinach Mushroom Gravy

Spinach, often celebrated as a superfood, is a nutrient-packed green that should definitely be a staple in your diet. Not only is it incredibly versatile in the kitchen, but it also comes with a host of health benefits. Whether you’re dealing with low iron levels or just looking to boost your intake of essential vitamins and minerals, spinach is here to help. This leafy green is a rich source of iron, which is vital for maintaining healthy blood cells and overall energy levels. But that’s not all—spinach is also loaded with vitamins A, C, and K, along with folate, calcium, and magnesium, all of which support various bodily functions, from bone health to immune support.

The pairing of spinach with mushrooms in this recipe not only enhances the flavor profile but also boosts the nutritional value, making it an ideal dish for anyone looking to eat healthier without sacrificing taste. Spinach is also low in calories and high in antioxidants, which makes it an excellent choice for those who want to maintain a balanced diet. By avoiding dairy and egg yolks in this recipe, we ensure that the iron in spinach is absorbed more efficiently by your body. This dish is not just a side; it’s a flavorful, nutritious meal that you’ll want to make a regular part of your cooking routine.

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Let’s get started on this delicious Spinach & Mushroom Sauté!

Ingredients

  • 450 g frozen spinach
  • 80 g onion
  • 80 g mushrooms
  • 2 large garlic cloves
  • 30 g butter
  • 2 tbsp. all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup (or more, if needed) chicken broth or any broth of your choice
  • ½ tsp. salt
  • Black pepper to taste
  • ⅛ tsp. nutmeg powder

Directions

  1. Cook frozen or fresh spinach in a saucepan until water evaporates and set aside.
  2. In another pan, sauté garlic, onion, and mushrooms until tender.
  3. Mix flour and broth until smooth. While stirring continuously, gradually add the mixture to the mushrooms to create a gravy.
  4. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg to taste.
  5. Add spinach to the mixture and simmer for another 5 minutes.
  6. Serve and enjoy!

Nutritional Information

Per 1 Serving:

  • Energy: 212 calories
  • Protein: 18.51 g
  • Fat: 11.01 g
  • Carbohydrates: 11.52 g
  • Fiber: 4 g

Notes:

  • If you’re consuming spinach to help with iron deficiency, avoid pairing it with dairy products or egg yolks, as they can inhibit iron absorption.
  • Store any leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Prep Time and Servings

  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Servings: 4 servings

Storage and Recommendations:

  • Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Recommendations: This sauté pairs well with a variety of dishes—serve it as a side with grilled meats or enjoy it on its own as a light, nutritious meal.
Zucchini Pie

Zucchini Pie

Zucchini Pie

Let me introduce you to one of my favorite comfort foods—Zucchini Egg Pie. This pie is everything you need when you’re looking for something both savory and satisfying. It’s a dish that brings together the best of seasonal ingredients in a way that’s simple yet flavorful. The lightness of zucchini paired with the richness of cheese and eggs creates a balance that’s just perfect for any meal, whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Zucchini is not just a versatile vegetable; it’s also packed with nutrients that can boost your health in many ways. Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, zucchini helps support a healthy immune system, promotes good vision, and plays a role in blood clotting. It’s also high in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties, making it great for overall wellness. Plus, zucchini is low in calories and high in water content, making it a fantastic ingredient for those looking to manage their weight while still enjoying hearty and delicious meals. This pie is a great way to incorporate more zucchini into your diet, offering both taste and nutrition in every bite.

Let’s dive into how you can make this delicious pie yourself.

Ingredients

  • 500 g zucchini (or 2 large ones)
  • 2 eggs
  • 25 g onion (if desired, you can add garlic too)
  • 50 g diced orange, red, or green pepper
  • 100 g feta cheese (or other cheese you prefer)
  • 60 g cheddar cheese (or other cheese you prefer)
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp. baking powder
  • 2 tbsp. olive oil
  • ½ tsp. salt
  • 1 tsp. oregano
  • Black pepper to taste

Directions

  1. Grate the seasonal zucchini of your choice.
  2. Mix the grated zucchini with beaten eggs, diced onion and pepper, crumbled feta and cheddar cheese, all-purpose flour, baking powder, olive oil, salt, oregano, and black pepper until well combined.
  3. Pour the zucchini mixture into a greased baking pan.
  4. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 50 minutes, or until the pie is golden brown and set.
  5. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Nutritional Information

Per 1 Serving:

  • Energy: 253 calories
  • Protein: 15.6 g
  • Fat: 13.48 g
  • Carbohydrates: 18.9 g
  • Fiber: 2.1 g

Notes:

  • This pie can be enjoyed warm or chilled, making it versatile for any occasion.
  • Store any leftover zucchini pie in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Prep Time and Servings

  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Baking Time: 50 minutes
  • Servings: 4 servings

Storage and Recommendations:

  • Storage: Leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Recommendations: This pie pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or a light soup, making it a perfect meal for any time of day.
Mackerel Garlic Sauce

Mackerel Garlic Sauce

Mackerel Garlic Sauce

Introducing a recipe that’s not just delicious but also packed with incredible health benefits—Mackerel Garlic Sauce. This dish is a game-changer for anyone looking to add more nutritious options to their meals without compromising on flavor. Mackerel, the star of this recipe, is a powerhouse of nutrients that everyone should consider incorporating into their diet regularly.

Mackerel is an excellent source of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. It’s rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to support heart health by reducing blood pressure and lowering cholesterol levels. These healthy fats are also beneficial for brain function and can help reduce inflammation in the body. Additionally, mackerel is packed with essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin D, B12, and selenium, making it a must-have in your diet. Including mackerel in your meals can provide significant health benefits, from boosting your immune system to improving your overall well-being. So, why not make this nutrient-dense fish a regular part of your weekly meal plan?

Now, let’s dive into how you can prepare this flavorful and healthy dish.

Ingredients

For the fish:

  • 1 large mackerel fish (500 g) or 2 large fillets (360 g)

For the Lemon Garlic Sauce:

  • 15 g butter
  • 2 large garlic cloves, grated
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt to taste
  • Pinch of chili pepper
  • ¼ tsp. dried dill

Directions

Mackerel Preparation:

1. Season mackerel fillets with salt and pepper.

2. Cook skin-side down in a hot pan for 5-7 minutes until golden.

3. Flip and cook for another 5-7 minutes until fully cooked on the second side.

4. Transfer the cooked fillets to a serving platter.

Lemon Garlic Sauce:

5. Melt butter in the same pan.

6. Fry grated garlic until golden and fragrant.

7. Season with salt, pepper, and chili pepper.

8. Add lemon juice and dried dill, simmer for 5 minutes until you reach a creamy sauce.

Serving:

9. Drizzle the creamy sauce over the mackerel fillets.

10. If desired, serve with a salad and rice.

Nutritional Information

Per 1 Serving:

  • Energy: 253 calories
  • Protein: 36.84 g
  • Fat: 9.76 g
  • Carbohydrates: 2.65 g
  • Fiber: 0.1 g

Notes:

  • This recipe is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, with a single serving providing over 5,000 mg—far exceeding daily recommendations.
  • Including mackerel in your diet can help meet the recommended intake of omega-3, which is often deficient in many diets.

Prep Time and Servings

  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 15 minutes + 10 minutes
  • Servings: 2 servings

Storage and Recommendations:

  • Storage: Store any leftover mackerel in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan or enjoy cold over a salad.
  • Recommendations: This dish pairs beautifully with a light salad or steamed vegetables, making it a perfect meal for any time of the day.