Showing posts with label grilling. Show all posts
Showing posts with label grilling. Show all posts

Tuesday, September 16, 2025

20 Recipes for the Perfect Summer-to-Fall Transition

Celebrate the change of seasons with 20 easy summer-to-fall transition recipes! From fresh salads and grilled favorites to cozy slow cooker dinners, these meals make weeknight cooking simple and delicious as the weather cools.



20 Recipes for the Perfect Summer-to-Fall Transition


Do you find that as the days grow shorter and evenings begin to cool, our cravings shift?  I still love the bright flavors of summer produce, but all of a sudden warm, cozy dishes are starting to sound irresistible. This round-up brings you the best of both worlds — easy dinners, quick meals, and comforting bites that make the seasonal shift seamless.


   Fresh & Bright (Still Summer at Heart)   



Sweet figs and crisp cucumbers tossed with salty feta — fresh, simple, and seasonal perfection.




2.  Summer Entertaining: Corn and Stone Fruit Salad

Sweet corn and juicy peaches/plums keep things light, but it pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for dinner.


Vibrant, juicy fruit that can be dressed light for warm days or richer as evenings cool.


A mezze-style plate that’s fresh and elegant — serve with flatbread and salad for an effortless dinner.


A hearty salad that can hold its own as a meal — great warm or chilled, so it fits whatever the weather brings.



No-cook, crisp, and refreshing, but hearty enough when paired with soup or roasted veggies.




   Quick & Easy Dinners   




7. Garlic Chicken Stir Fry

A 20-minute skillet dinner that adapts to whatever veggies are in your crisper — light or hearty, your choice.


Crunchy, herby chicken baked on a sheet pan — with salad for freshness and potatoes for comfort.



Sandwich night done right! Perfect when you want something satisfying without a lot of cooking.





10.  Mojito Chicken Bowls
A tropical twist that still feels filling and balanced — rice, greens, and fruit all in one easy bowl.





       Grilled but Cozy        




11.  Grilled London Broil with Grilled Nectarine, Corn, Tomato, & Burrata Salad


Summer’s last grilling hurrah, paired with fruit and cheese for a sweet-savory balance.





12.  Grilled Balsamic Chicken with Mediterranean Rice

Juicy grilled chicken with a tangy glaze, served with a hearty rice dish — light enough for warm days but warming enough for cooler nights.



A filling steak salad that doesn’t weigh you down — greens, protein, and a creamy avocado kick.



Mezze spreads are perfect transition meals — keep them light with veggies or heartier with grilled meats.



   Cozy & Comforting (Hello Fall)   




15.  Leftovers Transformed: Pearl Couscous Risotto with Chicken & Greens

Creamy, cozy, but lighter than traditional risotto — great for using up what’s on hand.



When tomatoes are still plentiful but you’re craving a warm bake, this rustic galette is the answer.



Effortless comfort — just set it and forget it. Perfect for busy back-to-school nights. 



Bold flavor, simple prep, and it can be served over rice or noodles — warm yet fresh.



Hearty enough for cool nights but tomato-bright enough to still feel summery.



Brunch meets comfort — indulgent, cozy, but still bright with fruit. A lovely weekend transition treat.





No matter the weather, these recipes have you covered—bright for warm days, cozy for cool nights.


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Tuesday, September 9, 2025

Late-Summer Arugula Salad with Spiced Chicken & Creamy Cilantro Dressing


This Late-Summer Arugula Salad with Spiced Chicken & Creamy Cilantro Dressing is a 30-minute dinner wonder—fresh, healthy, and perfect for easy outdoor dining.




Late-Summer Arugula Salad with Spiced Chicken & Creamy Cilantro Dressing


There are certain meals that just feel like summer, and this one has been on repeat in my kitchen for the past few weeks.  Bright, bold, and bursting with color, this Late-Summer Arugula Salad with Spiced Chicken & Creamy Cilantro Dressing is the definition of a warm-weather dinner. It’s quick enough for weeknights, refreshingly light for warm evenings, and bursting with fresh flavors that practically beg you to dine alfresco and linger until the last golden rays of sunset fade away.


“Fresh, vibrant, and on the table in just 30 minutes—my go-to late-summer dinner.”


What I love most about this dish is how it balances ease with elegance. In just 30 minutes, you get juicy spiced chicken, a crisp bed of peppery arugula, sweet cherry tomatoes, crunchy bell peppers, and hearty chickpeas—all tied together with a silky, tangy cilantro dressing. It’s a healthy meal that never feels like you're eating "healthy".  This meal will satisfy every time.  

Enjoy!





What Ingredients Do I Need?

  • Red onion
  • Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • Lime (zest and juice)
  • Fresh cilantro
  • Plain Greek yogurt
  • Baby arugula
  • Chickpeas (garbanzo beans)
  • Orange bell pepper
  • Cherry tomatoes

Pantry Items

  • White wine vinegar
  • Honey
  • Ground cumin
  • Garlic powder
  • Smoked paprika
  • Black pepper
  • Salt
  • Extra virgin olive oil




Substitutions and Variations

Substitutions

Want to switch things up or accommodate what you have on hand? These easy swaps let you keep the salad fresh and flavorful without missing a beat:

  • Chicken → shrimp, salmon, or steak
  • Greek yogurt → dairy-free yogurt or sour cream
  • Arugula → baby spinach, mixed greens, or kale
  • Chickpeas → white beans or black beans
  • Honey → sugar


Variations

Feeling adventurous? Try one of these tweaks to elevate the salad or give it a seasonal twist that keeps it exciting all summer long:

  • Add fruit → sliced peaches, nectarines, or avocado
  • Spice it up → chili flakes or cayenne in the spice rub
  • Add crunch → toasted almonds, pumpkin seeds, or pepitas
  • Make it a grain bowl → serve over quinoa, farro, or brown rice





Kitchen Tips & Notes

  • Prep Ahead: We are doing a quick pickling of the onion in this recipe.  You can do this a few hours in advance if you like.  The dressing may also be made in advance and refrigerated until serving.
  • Chicken Cooking: For evenly cooked cutlets, pound to ½-inch thickness before seasoning.
  • Dressing Consistency: Adjust water 1 tsp at a time to reach your ideal drizzle.
  • Serving Tip: Let the salad sit for 5 minutes after tossing to allow flavors to meld.





    "Set the Mood"    

Imagine a warm late-summer evening: the air tinged with the scent of fresh herbs and grilled chicken. A chilled glass of white wine in hand, soft sunlight dancing on the table, and the gentle hum of conversation. 

This salad is light yet hearty, colorful, and bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors that make outdoor dining feel effortless and indulgent. Perfect for a casual weeknight, a small gathering, or simply a moment to savor the season.






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Saturday, July 5, 2025

Italian Summer Chicken Bowls – Grilled Goodness Meets Garden-Fresh Flavor

This Italian Summer Chicken Bowl is a fresh, flavorful dinner featuring juicy grilled chicken, tender orzo, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and a zesty garlic-herb vinaigrette. A perfect Mediterranean-inspired meal for warm nights!





Italian Summer Chicken Bowls – Grilled Goodness Meets Garden-Fresh Flavor


When the summer sun is high and the last thing you want to do is turn on the oven, grilled chicken bowls become the hero of the season. We’ve long been fans of bowl meals in our house—there’s something comforting and effortless about piling fresh, flavorful ingredients into one dish. This Italian Summer Chicken Bowl is everything we love: juicy grilled chicken, tender orzo pasta, creamy mozzarella balls, sweet cherry tomatoes, and loads of fresh basil, all tied together with a zesty homemade vinaigrette. It’s vibrant, wholesome, and keeps the kitchen cool while still delivering that home-cooked magic.

What makes this dish a repeat favorite? It’s easy to pull together with pantry staples and a few garden-fresh ingredients, yet the flavors feel restaurant-worthy. The garlic-herb vinaigrette soaks into the warm orzo, the chicken picks up smoky char from the grill, and the mozzarella and tomatoes bring that bright Caprese-style balance. You’ll want to dive in fork-first—trust me.

If you’re looking for a simple, satisfying dinner that captures the essence of Mediterranean cooking, this Italian grilled chicken bowl is it. Whether you're serving it up for a weeknight meal or a backyard dinner with friends, it’s a bowl full of summer—and everyone always comes back for seconds.

Enjoy!





What You’ll Need for These Italian Summer Chicken Bowls

Fresh Produce:

  • Garlic
  • Lemon
  • Cherry tomatoes
  • Fresh basil
  • Fresh parsley

Protein:

  • Thin-sliced chicken breasts or cutlets

Dairy:

  • Mozzarella balls (look for ciliegine or bocconcini)

Pantry Staples:

  • Olive oil
  • Orzo pasta
  • Italian seasoning
  • Red pepper flakes
  • Salt & black pepper





Substitutions and Variations

Substitutions
  • Chicken breasts → Use chicken thighs, rotisserie chicken, or grilled shrimp for a different protein

  • Orzo pasta → Swap with couscous, quinoa, farro, or even short pasta like ditalini or small shells

  • Mozzarella balls → Use diced fresh mozzarella, crumbled feta, or goat cheese

  • Cherry tomatoes → Substitute with grape tomatoes, chopped heirloom tomatoes, or sun-dried tomatoes

  • Lemon juice → White wine vinegar or red wine vinegar make good substitutes in the vinaigrette

  • Red pepper flakes → Omit for less heat, or replace with a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne


Variations

  • Mediterranean Veggie Bowl: Skip the chicken and add grilled zucchini, roasted red peppers, and marinated artichoke hearts for a vegetarian twist.

  • Pesto Chicken Bowl: Toss the grilled chicken with a couple spoonfuls of basil pesto for an extra layer of herb-packed flavor.

  • Caprese Grain Bowl: Swap orzo for farro or quinoa and add a balsamic glaze drizzle for a heartier, Caprese-inspired version.

  • Spicy Kick Bowl: Add sliced pepperoncini or a spoonful of Calabrian chili paste to the vinaigrette for a bold, spicy upgrade.





Kitchen Tips and Notes

  • Pound the chicken: If your chicken cutlets are uneven, give them a quick pound to ensure even cooking on the grill. This helps prevent dry spots and keeps them juicy.

  • Don’t overcook the orzo: Cook just until al dente—overcooked orzo can get mushy and won’t hold up well in the bowl.

  • Let the chicken rest: After grilling, rest the chicken for 5 minutes before slicing. This locks in the juices and keeps it tender.

  • Use warm orzo for best flavor: Tossing the vinaigrette into slightly warm orzo helps it soak up all that herby, garlicky goodness.

  • Prep ahead: The vinaigrette can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge. Just give it a good whisk or shake before using.

  • Double the vinaigrette: It’s that good! Use leftovers on salads, grilled veggies, or as a dipping sauce for bread.









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Saturday, June 28, 2025

Stars, Stripes & Smoky Bites: Bacon Cheddar Ranch Burgers

Celebrate the Fourth of July with Stars, Stripes & Smoky Bites: Bacon Cheddar Ranch Burgers! These juicy, ranch-seasoned burgers are loaded with melted cheddar and crispy bacon—perfect for your summer BBQ.




Stars, Stripes & Smoky Bites: Bacon Cheddar Ranch Burgers


There’s something magical about a sizzling grill, a backyard full of laughter, and the unmistakable scent of burgers in the summer air. And when the Fourth of July rolls around, it’s time to bring out the big flavor. These Bacon Cheddar Ranch Burgers are my go-to when I want something festive, satisfying, and guaranteed to please a crowd. I love a good burger—if you’ve been around the blog for a while, you know I’ve shared quite a few! But this one’s a true standout: juicy ground beef seasoned with tangy ranch and a dollop of sour cream for that rich, tender texture, topped with sharp cheddar and a sprinkle of crispy bacon. It’s bold, it’s smoky, and it tastes like summer.

Best of all, these burgers come together with almost no fuss, making them perfect for easy entertaining. Pair them with my crispy oven fries (pro tip: toss those with a little ranch seasoning too for a flavor match made in heaven) and you’ve got a kid-approved, guest-friendly meal that practically shouts “holiday weekend.” Whether you're gathering with friends for fireworks or just keeping things low-key with the family, this is a crowd-pleasing, all-American dinner you’ll want to bring back all season long.

Enjoy!




What Ingredients do I need?


Meat
  • Ground beef
  • Bacon

Dairy
  • Sharp cheddar cheese slices
  • Sour cream

Pantry & Seasonings
  • Ranch seasoning mix
  • Ketchup
  • Mustard
  • Mayonnaise

Produce (optional)
  • Lettuce 
  • Tomatoes

Bakery
  • Hamburger buns



Substitutions and Variations

Substitutions

  • Ground beefGround turkey, chicken, or plant-based ground meat
  • Sour cream → Plain Greek yogurt or mayo

  • Cheddar cheese slices → Colby Jack, American, pepper jack, or provolone

  • Bacon → Turkey bacon, pancetta, or crispy fried onions for a vegetarian crunch

  • Hamburger buns → Brioche buns, sandwich rolls, lettuce wraps, or gluten-free buns

  • Ketchup/Mustard/Mayo → BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, or chipotle aioli



Variations
  • Spicy Ranch Burgers – Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture. Swap cheddar for pepper jack for an extra kick.

  • BBQ Ranch Burgers – Mix a tablespoon of BBQ sauce into the beef and top with crispy onions instead of bacon. Serve with extra BBQ sauce on the bun.

  • Ranch Turkey Burgers – Use ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter option. Add a splash of Worcestershire or a bit of grated onion to keep them juicy.

  • Southwest Style – Add a pinch of cumin and smoked paprika to the burger mix. Top with avocado slices and a spoonful of salsa or chipotle mayo.

  • Blue Ranch Burgers – Skip the cheddar and add blue cheese crumbles after cooking. Serve with caramelized onions for a gourmet twist.

  • Slider Style – Form into smaller patties and serve on mini buns—great for parties, kids, or appetizer-style serving.





Kitchen Tips and Notes

  • Don’t Overwork the Meat: Gently mix the beef, sour cream, and ranch seasoning just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense, tough burgers.
  • Use an Indent for Even Cooking: Press a shallow thumbprint in the center of each patty before cooking—this prevents them from puffing up in the middle and ensures even grilling.
  • Toast Those Buns:  A quick toast on the grill or in a skillet keeps the buns from getting soggy and adds that satisfying crunch.





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