Start Up the Grill - It's BBQ Time

As the tantalizing aroma of grilling wafts through the air, ignite your taste buds and embark on a culinary adventure where sizzling meats and smoky flavors reign supreme. 

The summer is heating up, and it's time to fire up the grill to celebrate the summer with BBQ! 

Whether you're a seasoned griller or a novice looking to impress, it's the perfect opportunity to elevate your grilling game and create unforgettable culinary experiences.

**Choosing the Right Grill**

The first step to grilling success is selecting the right grill. There are two main types of grills: gas and charcoal.

Gas grills: offer convenience and quick ignition, making them ideal for quick and easy grilling sessions. I have the Monument grill with rotisserie kit and I love it!

Monument Grills 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill with Rotisserie Kit, Side Burner, Stainless Steel 

Charcoal grills: impart a smoky flavor to food and provide a more authentic grilling experience. 

Consider the size of your grilling area, the frequency of use, and your budget when choosing a grill.

**Selecting the Best Meats**
The heart of any BBQ is the meat. Choose high-quality cuts that are full of flavor and well-marbled. Some popular BBQ meats include:

Beef: Ribeye, strip steak, brisket
Pork: Ribs, pulled pork, pork chops
Chicken:  Whole chicken, breasts, thighs
Seafood:  Salmon, tuna, shrimp

**Preparing the Grill**

Before grilling, it's essential to prepare your grill properly.

Clean the grill grates:  Use a grill brush to remove any residue from previous grilling sessions.
Heat the grill:  Preheat the grill to the desired temperature. For most meats, a medium-high heat of 350-450°F (177-232°C) is suitable.
Oil the grill grates:  To prevent food from sticking, lightly oil the grill grates with vegetable oil.

**Grilling Techniques**

There are several grilling techniques that can enhance the flavor and texture of your food.

Direct grilling: Place the meat directly over the heat source for a quick and intense sear.
Indirect grilling: Cook the meat over indirect heat, away from the heat source, for a more even and slower cook.
Two-zone grilling: Divide the grill into two zones, one hot and one cool. Grill the meat over the hot zone to sear, then move it to the cool zone for indirect cooking.

**Marinades and Rubs**

Marinades and rubs add flavor and moisture to grilled meats.

Marinades: Soak the meat in a flavorful liquid for several hours or overnight. Marinades tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor.
Rubs:  A dry spice mixture that's applied to the meat before grilling. Rubs enhance the natural flavors of the meat and create a crispy crust.

**Sauces**

No BBQ is complete without a delicious sauce. Here are some popular BBQ sauce styles:

Kansas City: (my personal favorite) A sweet and tangy sauce made with molasses, ketchup, and vinegar.
Carolina:  A vinegar-based sauce with a mustardy flavor.
Texas: A spicy sauce made with chili peppers and brown sugar.

**Sides and Accompaniments**

Complete your BBQ feast with delectable sides and accompaniments. Some popular options include:

Potato salad: A classic BBQ side dish made with boiled potatoes, mayonnaise, and other ingredients. Click here photo for a delicious potato salad recipe. 

Coleslaw:  A crunchy salad made with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a creamy dressing. Click here photo for a delicious potato salad recipe. 

Baked beans: A sweet and savory dish made with beans, bacon, and brown sugar. Click here photo for a delicious potato salad recipe.  

**BBQ Safety Tips**

• Always prioritize safety when grilling.
• Keep the grill away from flammable materials: Place the grill on a stable, non-combustible surface.
• Never leave the grill unattended: Stay close to the grill while it's in use.
• Use long-handled grilling tools:  Keep your hands away from the heat.
• Clean the grill regularly: Remove grease and food residue to prevent flare-ups.

BBQ Week is a celebration of the art of grilling. By following these tips, you can create a mouthwatering BBQ that will impress your friends and family. So, fire up the grill, gather your loved ones, and enjoy the ultimate grilling experience!

Do you have some helpful grilling tips? We'd love to hear from you in the comments below.

Keep it sassy,

Kelly

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Thank you so much for taking the time to read our blog! We really appreciate it. We believe that our blog is a great way to share valuable information, such as tips, tricks, and advice, to help our readers improve their lives. We strive to create content that is interesting, informative, and entertaining so that our readers can always find something valuable to read. We do our best to provide content that is timely and relevant, so our readers can stay up to date with the latest trends. We also aim to provide content that is unique and engaging, so our readers can learn something new and be inspired. We hope that our blog provides you with the necessary information and resources to make your life easier and more enjoyable. Thank you again for taking the time to read our blog!

FTC DISCLAIMER:  This page informs you of our disclosure statement regarding the advertisements we use and disclosure of our Service and the choices we have associated with it. The compensation received will never influence the content, topics, or posts made in this blog. All advertising is in the form of advertisements generated by a third-party ad network or affiliates. Those advertisements will be identified as paid advertisements. The owner(s) of this website is not compensated to provide opinions on products, services, websites, and various other topics. The views and opinions expressed on this website are purely the owners. If we claim or appear to be experts on a certain topic or product or service area, we will only endorse products or services that we believe, based on our expertise, are worthy of such endorsement. Any product claim, statistic, quote, or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. This website does not contain any content which might present a conflict of interest.

Delicious and Crowd-Pleasing Memorial Day Recipes

Memorial Day weekend holds a special significance, marking the unofficial commencement of summer and a time for reflection and remembrance. As the weather warms and the days grow longer, we eagerly anticipate this long weekend as an opportunity to bask in the spirit of the season. Whether it's firing up the grill for a backyard barbecue, planning a day trip to the beach, or simply enjoying the company of loved ones, Memorial Day weekend offers a respite from the daily grind. 

However, amidst the festivities, we also pause to honor the brave men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation. Memorial Day serves as a poignant reminder of their service and sacrifice, and we pay tribute to their memory with solemn ceremonies and heartfelt expressions of gratitude. 

As we celebrate this special day, it's essential to have a variety of crowd-pleasing recipes that will satisfy everyone's taste buds. Here are some mouthwatering ideas to make your Memorial Day feast a memorable one.

Grilled Chicken Skewers

A classic crowd-pleaser, these grilled chicken skewers are easy to prepare and can be customized with your favorite marinade or seasoning. Simply cut boneless, skinless chicken breasts & veggies into bite-sized pieces, thread them onto skewers, and grill until cooked through. Serve with a side of your favorite dipping sauce, such as barbecue sauce.

Grilled Chicken Kabobs with Vegetables 

Classic Potato Salad

A staple at any Memorial Day gathering, a classic potato salad is a must-have side dish. Boil potatoes until tender, then mix with mayonnaise, mustard, diced onions, and chopped hard-boiled eggs. Season with salt, pepper, and a dash of paprika for a pop of color.

Best Classic Potato Salad Recipe

Coleslaw

Another popular side dish, coleslaw is a refreshing and crunchy addition to your Memorial Day feast. Shred cabbage and carrots, then mix with a creamy dressing made from mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, and a touch of celery seed. For a twist, try adding shredded apples or pineapple for a sweet and tangy flavor.

Easy Cole Slaw Recipe 

Baked Beans

A hearty and comforting dish, baked beans are a perfect accompaniment to grilled meats. Combine canned beans with diced onions, ketchup, brown sugar, and a touch of mustard, then bake in the oven until bubbly and caramelized.

Baked Beans Recipe

Watermelon Feta Salad

For a light and refreshing salad, try a watermelon feta salad. Combine cubed watermelon with crumbled feta cheese, chopped fresh basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. 

Watermelon and Feta Salad Recipe

Easy Strawberry Shortcake

A classic dessert, strawberry shortcake is a perfect way to end your Memorial Day feast. Layer fresh strawberries, sweetened whipped cream, and fluffy biscuits for a delicious and satisfying treat.

Easy Strawberry Shortcake Recipe 

Lemonade

No Memorial Day gathering is complete without a refreshing beverage. Make a large pitcher of homemade lemonade by combining freshly squeezed lemon juice, sugar, and water. For an adult twist, add a splash of vodka or gin for a spiked lemonade.

Old-Fashioned Lemonade Recipe 

These delicious and crowd-pleasing recipes are sure to make your Memorial Day gathering a hit. With a variety of options to choose from, there's something for everyone to enjoy. So, gather your friends and family, fire up the grill, and celebrate this special day with great food and even better company.

Are you doing anything special for Memorial Day? Do you have a recipe that you use every year? We'd love to hear from you in the comments below.

Keep it sassy,

Kelly

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Thank you so much for taking the time to read our blog! We really appreciate it. We believe that our blog is a great way to share valuable information, such as tips, tricks, and advice, to help our readers improve their lives. We strive to create content that is interesting, informative, and entertaining so that our readers can always find something valuable to read. We do our best to provide content that is timely and relevant, so our readers can stay up to date with the latest trends. We also aim to provide content that is unique and engaging, so our readers can learn something new and be inspired. We hope that our blog provides you with the necessary information and resources to make your life easier and more enjoyable. Thank you again for taking the time to read our blog!

FTC DISCLAIMER:  This page informs you of our disclosure statement regarding the advertisements we use and disclosure of our Service and the choices we have associated with it. The compensation received will never influence the content, topics, or posts made in this blog. All advertising is in the form of advertisements generated by a third-party ad network or affiliates. Those advertisements will be identified as paid advertisements. The owner(s) of this website is not compensated to provide opinions on products, services, websites, and various other topics. The views and opinions expressed on this website are purely the owners. If we claim or appear to be experts on a certain topic or product or service area, we will only endorse products or services that we believe, based on our expertise, are worthy of such endorsement. Any product claim, statistic, quote, or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. This website does not contain any content which might present a conflict of interest.

5 Ingredient Recipes Featuring Chicken

Looking for a quick and easy meal idea? Look no further than these delicious 5 ingredient recipes featuring chicken as the star ingredient. From simple sheet pan dinners to skillet meals, these recipes will save you time in the kitchen without sacrificing taste. Whether you're a busy parent or just want to simplify your cooking, these chicken recipes are sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. 

5 ingredient recipes are a popular concept in the culinary world, and for good reason. These recipes use only five simple ingredients to create delicious and flavorful meals in a fraction of the time and cost of traditional recipes. By limiting the number of ingredients, the focus is on using high-quality, essential ingredients that pack a punch in terms of flavor. This not only saves time in the kitchen but also saves money on groceries. With 5 ingredient recipes, anyone can whip up a tasty and budget-friendly meal in no time. 

So grab your ingredients and get ready to whip up some delicious and budget-friendly meals in no time!

5 Ingredient BBQ Chicken Sheetpan meal

5-Ingredient BBQ Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner Recipe — Eat This Not That

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken legs, or thighs
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 sweet potato
• Barbecue sauce, your choice
• Olive oil

Steps

1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the sweet potato cubes with olive oil, and sprinkle some salt and pepper. Add it to one side of the sheet pan.
3. Add the broccoli to the middle and coat them with olive oil.
4. Add the chicken legs to the remaining side of the pan and brush on that barbecue sauce.
5. Roast in the oven for 30 minutes, or until the chicken is officially done.
6. Before serving, brush on a second layer of barbecue sauce to the chicken.

5-Ingredient Chicken Lazone

5-Ingredient Chicken Lazone Recipe - Pillsbury.com

Ingredients

• 2 teaspoons kosher (coarse) salt
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 lb uncooked chicken breast tenders (not breaded)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 cup whipping cream

Steps

1.   In small bowl, stir together 2 teaspoons kosher salt, 2 teaspoons garlic powder and 2 teaspoons chili powder. Sprinkle over 1 lb uncooked chicken breast tenders (not breaded) to completely coat.

2.   In 10-inch skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of the unsalted butter over medium-low or medium heat. Add coated chicken tenders; cook 3 to 4 minutes on each side or until browned and no longer pink in center. Transfer chicken to plate; set aside.

3.  In same skillet, heat 1 cup whipping cream, scraping up any brown bits from bottom of skillet. Increase heat to simmer or until cream comes to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer until cream is reduced by half. Stir in remaining 2 tablespoons unsalted butter. Season to taste with salt. Return chicken to skillet.

Kale Salad with Quinoa & Chicken

Kale Salad with Quinoa & Chicken (eatingwell.com)

Ingredients

• 4 cups chopped kale
• 1 ½ cups shredded cooked chicken
• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• ¼ cup sliced jarred roasted red peppers
• ¼ cup Greek salad dressing (see Tip)
• 1 ounce Crumbled feta cheese

Steps

 

1.      Place kale, chicken, quinoa and roasted peppers in a large bowl. 

2.     Add dressing and toss to coat. 

3.     Top with feta, if desired.

5-Ingredient Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs

5-Ingredient Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs - Healthy Seasonal Recipes

 Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons brown deli mustard2 tablespoons honey
• 2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 6 boneless skinless chicken thighs, about 2 pounds

Steps

1. Preheat oven to 375ºF. Line a large-rimmed baking sheet with parchment.
2. Whisk honey, mustard, thyme, and salt in a medium bowl. Add chicken thighs and turn to coat. Arrange chicken on the parchment-lined baking sheet, tucking them into neat thigh shapes.
3. Roast chicken until cooked through and browned in spots, 30 to 40 minutes.
4. Let rest 4 to 6 minutes before serving

 5-Ingredient Slow Cooker Fajita Salsa Chicken

5-Ingredient Slow Cooker Fajita Salsa Chicken - Real Food Whole Life

Ingredients

• 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1-2 medium yellow onions thinly sliced
• 1-2 medium bell peppers red, yellow, orange or green, thinly sliced
• 1 16-oz jar salsa divided
• ½ teaspoon salt
•  Juice of 1 lime about 2 tablespoons

Optional Toppings

• Fresh Tomato Salsa
• Easy Guacamole

Steps

1. Add the chicken, onions, peppers, about ⅔ of the salsa, and salt to a 6-quart slow cooker, stirring to combine.
2. Cover and cook on high for 4 hours or low for 6, or until the chicken and vegetables are very tender.
3. Uncover and remove the chicken to a cutting board. Shred with two forks or cut into pieces.
4. If there is a lot of liquid in the slow cooker you can drain some off or leave it all in, depending on whether you want a drier or saucier consistency.
5. Add back the chicken, the remaining salsa, and lime juice, stirring everything together. Taste and add additional salt, lime juice or salsa if you like.

Trader Joe’s Crispy Sweet Potato Gnocchi

Sweet Potato Gnocchi Recipe (Roasted, With Chicken Sausage) | The Kitchn

INGREDIENTS

• 1 

  (12-ounce) package fully cooked Trader Joe's Sweet Italian Chicken Sausage, sliced

• 1 

  (14-ounce) bag frozen Trader Joe's Sweet Potato Gnocchi

• 2 tablespoons 

  olive oil

• 1/2 cup 

  Trader Joe's Kale, Cashew & Basil Pesto

• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

STEPS

1. Arrange a rack in the middle of the oven and heat to 450°F.
2. Place chicken sausage on a rimmed baking sheet with the sweet potato gnocchi. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and toss to coat.
3. Spread in an even later and roast until the gnocchi is plump and lightly browned and the sausage is warmed, about 15 minutes. Drizzle with pesto and toss to coat.

In conclusion, making 5 ingredient recipes is a win-win situation. They save you time, money, and stress, while also promoting a healthier lifestyle and reducing food waste. So why not give them a try? With just a few simple ingredients, you can create delicious and nutritious meals that will impress your family and friends. So let's simplify our lives and go back to basics with these easy and delicious 5 ingredient recipes.

Do you have a 5 ingredient recipe you'd like to share? We'd love to hear from you in the comments below.

Keep it sassy,

Kelly

🐔🐔🐔🐔🐔🐔🐔🐔🐔🐔🐔🐔🐔🐔🐔🐔🐔🐔🐔🐔🐔🐔

Thank you so much for taking the time to read our blog! We really appreciate it. We believe that our blog is a great way to share valuable information, such as tips, tricks, and advice, to help our readers improve their lives. We strive to create content that is interesting, informative, and entertaining so that our readers can always find something valuable to read. We do our best to provide content that is timely and relevant, so our readers can stay up to date with the latest trends. We also aim to provide content that is unique and engaging, so our readers can learn something new and be inspired. We hope that our blog provides you with the necessary information and resources to make your life easier and more enjoyable. Thank you again for taking the time to read our blog!

FTC DISCLAIMER:  This page informs you of our disclosure statement regarding the advertisements we use and disclosure of our Service and the choices we have associated with it. The compensation received will never influence the content, topics, or posts made in this blog. All advertising is in the form of advertisements generated by a third-party ad network or affiliates. Those advertisements will be identified as paid advertisements. The owner(s) of this website is not compensated to provide opinions on products, services, websites, and various other topics. The views and opinions expressed on this website are purely the owners. If we claim or appear to be experts on a certain topic or product or service area, we will only endorse products or services that we believe, based on our expertise, are worthy of such endorsement. Any product claim, statistic, quote, or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. This website does not contain any content which might present a conflict of interest.

Let's Celebrate National Bake Week

Get your aprons ready and preheat the oven, because it's time to celebrate National Bake Week in style! Baking has been an integral part of human history, with evidence of bread-making dating back to ancient civilizations. It is a skill that has been passed down through generations, with each culture adding its own unique flavors and techniques. From savory pies to decadent pastries, baking is a form of art that brings people together and creates delicious treats for all to enjoy.

To celebrate the love of baking, National Bake Week was established. This annual event takes place during the first full week of April (in the USA), and it is a time to honor the tradition of baking and all the joys it brings. In this article, we will delve into the history and significance of National Bake Week and why it is worth celebrating.

History of National Bake Week

National Bake Week was first celebrated in the United Kingdom in 2007, organized by the National Association of Master Bakers. The aim was to promote and celebrate the art of baking and to raise awareness of the bakers and confectioners who devote their lives to this craft. It was an instant hit, and soon other countries, including the United States, Canada, and Australia, adopted the tradition.

Why is it celebrated?

National Bake Week is not just about indulging in delicious treats but also about recognizing the important role that baking plays in our lives. It is a time to appreciate the hard work and dedication of bakers and to support local businesses and bakeries. It is also an opportunity to gather with friends and family, share recipes, and create new memories together.

Baking is a labor of love. It requires patience, precision, and a lot of trial and error. The end result is not just a delicious treat but also a sense of accomplishment and pride. National Bake Week celebrates this sense of achievement and encourages people to try their hand at baking, whether they are a seasoned pro or a novice.

Benefits of baking

Apart from the obvious joy of indulging in baked goods, baking also has numerous benefits for our mental and emotional well-being. The process of baking can be therapeutic, providing a sense of calm and focus. It also allows for creativity and self-expression, as bakers can experiment with different flavors and techniques. Baking can also be a wonderful way to bond with loved ones, as it brings people together and creates a sense of community.

Moreover, baking from scratch allows for control over the ingredients used, making it a healthier option than store-bought treats. It is also a great way to teach children about food, measurements, and following instructions.

How to celebrate National Bake Week

There are countless ways to celebrate National Bake Week, and it all depends on your personal preferences. You can try your hand at a new recipe, bake with friends or family, or visit your local bakery to support small businesses. You can also share your creations on social media using the hashtag #NationalBakeWeek or participate in baking competitions and events in your community.

Indulge your taste buds and satisfy your cravings with these irresistible baked goods recipes that will have you coming back for seconds.

Bread Machine Milk and Honey Bread Recipe

10 Spring Cupcake Recipes

Quick and Easy Pastry Recipes

Do you have a tried-and-true baked goods recipe that you consider your absolute favorite? We'd love to hear from you in the comments below.

Keep it Sassy,

Kelly

🍞🥖🍞🥖🍞🥖🍞🥖🍞🥖🍞🥖🍞🥖🍞🥖🍞🥖🍞🥖

Thank you so much for taking the time to read our blog! We really appreciate it. We believe that our blog is a great way to share valuable information, such as tips, tricks, and advice, to help our readers improve their lives. We strive to create content that is interesting, informative, and entertaining so that our readers can always find something valuable to read. We do our best to provide content that is timely and relevant, so our readers can stay up to date with the latest trends. We also aim to provide content that is unique and engaging, so our readers can learn something new and be inspired. We hope that our blog provides you with the necessary information and resources to make your life easier and more enjoyable. Thank you again for taking the time to read our blog!

FTC DISCLAIMER:  This page informs you of our disclosure statement regarding the advertisements we use and disclosure of our Service and the choices we have associated with it. The compensation received will never influence the content, topics, or posts made in this blog. All advertising is in the form of advertisements generated by a third-party ad network or affiliates. Those advertisements will be identified as paid advertisements. The owner(s) of this website is not compensated to provide opinions on products, services, websites, and various other topics. The views and opinions expressed on this website are purely the owners. If we claim or appear to be experts on a certain topic or product or service area, we will only endorse products or services that we believe, based on our expertise, are worthy of such endorsement. Any product claim, statistic, quote, or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. This website does not contain any content which might present a conflict of interest.