Saturday, January 31, 2015
Refreshing Chicken Berry Pasta Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette Featuring Con Olio Gourmet Olive Oils Balsamic Vinegars
I received three olive oils and three balsamic vinegars. The oils I received were blood orange, Milanese gremolata, and Cobrancosa from Portugal. All of them are flavorful, with complex flavors. The gremolata is flavored with lemon, parsley, garlic, and a bit of mint. Its perfect for adding flavor to grilled chicken breast or fish. I love it! But? I knew that the blood orange would be my featured flavor. The citrus flavor is perfectly balanced...but not the least bit assertive. The three flavored balsamic vinegars I received were fig, lavender, and grapefruit. The fig is pretty addictive...its perfect drizzled over figs that are stuffed with goat cheese for simple gourmet appetizer. The lavender has a nice floral finish, and the grapefruit? Its downright addictive, and it pairs perfectly with the blood orange olive oil to make a citrus vinaigrette.
I used the vinaigrette to flavor a light, yet filling pasta salad: Refreshing Chicken-Berry Pasta Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette. The evenings are still quite warm here in Texas, so light dinners like this are perfect when you dont want to eat something heavy. With a double shot of protein from chicken and feta cheese, this pasta salad isnt heavy, but it is filling. The berries add a pop of color and flavor, and a few nuts provide a bit of crunch. This would be perfect for any end-of-summer potlucks that you might have planned. It makes a large amount, so youre likely to have leftovers. Luckily, it tastes even better the next day!
Refreshing Chicken-Berry Pasta Salad
with Citrus Vinaigrette
a Weekend Gourmet original
Step 1: Cook 8 ounces penne pasta in well-salted water. While the pasta cooks, make the vinaigrette. Add the following ingredients to a measuring cup: 1/4 cup Con Olio blood orange olive oil, 1/3 cup Con Olio grapefruit balsamic, 1 tsp. honey, 2 tbs. finely diced shallot, and salt & cracked black pepper to taste. Whisk well to combine and set aside.
Step 2: Season 1 lb. boneless chicken breasts with salt and pepper to taste. Sear in 1 tbs. olive oil in a non-stick skillet over med-high heat. After they cool, cut into bite-sized pieces. Combine the following ingredients in a large mixing bowl: the cooked pasta, cooled chicken, 1 cup blueberries, 1 cup chopped strawberries, 1/2 cup crumbled feta, and 1/2 cup pecans.
Step 3: Add the citrus vinaigrette and toss well to evenly coat all the ingredients. You can serve the pasta salad immediately at room temperature, or you can chill for 1-2 hours to allow the flavors to develop.
This pasta salad is so good...the fruit combines perfectly with the sweet-tart citrus vinaigrette! The salty feta and crunchy nuts provide the perfect contrast of flavor and texture, and the chicken provides protein to keep you full. Put it all together, and you have a fabulous weekend lunch or summertime dinner.
If you live in the San Antonio-Austin area, make sure to go visit one of Con Olios two locations. They allow patrons to sample all of their flavors of olive oil and balsamic, so youll know if you love it before you ever walk out the store! I have my eye on two other flavors that I want to try ASAP: Meyer lemon olive oil and dark chocolate balsamic. Both sound insanely delicious!
Disclaimer: Con Olio sent me complimentary bottles of their olive oil and balsamic in order to facilitate this post. The opinions expressed are solely mine.
Disclaimer: Con Olio sent me complimentary bottles of their olive oil and balsamic in order to facilitate this post. The opinions expressed are solely mine.
Review Keurig Vue Brewing System
Simply set your favorite mug on the pedestal, directly under where the beverage will brew out. Add a Vue cup to the machine and close the lid. Use the touchscreen to select the Cocoa setting, and decide how big you want your drink to be -- 8 ounces was suggested for cocoa. Finally, press the Brew button...within a few seconds, the cocoa is brewing and into your cup. How you choose to top it is up to you...I added bit of peppermint extract and topped my cocoa with whipped cream and chopped peppermint for a fabulous holiday treat!
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| Step 1: Set your mug on the base of the machine...and decide what you want to brew. |
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| Step 2: Add the Vue cup to the machine and close the lid. Select the Cocoa setting and your desired drink size. |
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| Step 3: Press the Brew button...and your cocoa starts brewing immediately. About a minute later? Cocoa time! |
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| Step 4: Add your own personal touch: peppermint extract, whipped cream, and crushed peppermint works for me! |
Within the first few days, we enjoyed cocoa, tea, and latte with our Vue. I’ve already purchased full-size packages of Milk Chocolate Cocoa and Vanilla Latte. I especially love the vanilla latte, because I can doctor it up with extracts and flavorings depending on my mood. One of my favorites is a bit of hazelnut syrup! I have a few coffee Vue cups on hand for when the mood hits…or for we have company. Now that I have the Vue brewing system, our guests who drink coffee won’t have to run out in the mornings to get a cup of coffee. It’s a win-win: my guests will be happy, and I’ll feel like the hostess with the mostest!
Keurig sells a nice variety of Vue Cups from well-known brands, including: Green Mountain Coffee, Celestial Seasonings, Gloria Jean’s, Newman’s Own, and Emeril’s. If you already own a standard Keurig, keep in mind that K-cups are too small to be used in a Vue machine. Vue Cups dont currently come in as many flavor options as K-cups, but a Keurig representative tells me that more flavor options will be added in the coming months. After using this machine for just a few weeks, I’m a huge fan! Keurig Vue would be a fabulous holiday gift for anybody on your shopping list who enjoys convenience and quality beverages. To learn more about Keurig Vue and find out where they can be purchased, visit the Store Locator at the Keurig webpage. You can also Like Keurig on Facebook to be among the first to know about their latest news and special offers!
Disclosure: Keurig provided me with a free Vue brewing system and a sample pack of Vue Cups to facilitate this review and resulting post. The opinions expressed in this post are mine.
Gallo Grilling SundaySupper Featuring Grilled Chicken with Blueberry Merlot Sauce
Grilled Chicken with Blueberry-Merlot Sauce
Sauce inspired by Food and Wine
Ingredients:
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves (approx 2.5 lbs.)
- 1 cup Italian salad dressing of your choice
- 1 tbs. olive oil
For the sauce:
- 1.5 cups fresh blueberries
- 1/2 cup Gallo Merlot
- 1 tbs. balsamic vinegar
- 2 tbs. honey
- 1 tbs. rosemary, finely chopped
- 1 shallot, finely minced
- 1 tsp. grated fresh ginger
- 1 tsp. chile paste
- Salt & pepper to taste
Directions:
Step 1: Add the chicken breast and Italian dressing to a large bowl. Toss to combine and marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, but up to overnight is fine.
Step 2: Make the sauce by adding the blueberries, Gallo Merlot, balsamic, honey, rosemary, shallot, ginger, and chile paste to a medium saucepan. Give the sauce ingredients a stir to combine, then place the heat on med-high. Once the sauce
begins to bubble, reduce the heat to medium. Cook for approximately 10 minutes, until the berries begin to pop and the sauce thickens. Cool to room temperature, and add salt & pepper to taste. Set aside.
Step 3: Grill the marinated chicken breasts on an outdoor grill or indoor cast iron grill pan. [NOTE: If using a grill pan, brush the pan with olive oil and preheat on med-high for 5 minutes to ensure the best sear.] As the chicken grills, brush some of the blueberry-Merlot sauce on top. Arrange the cooked chicken on a serving platter and pour the remaining sauce on top before serving.
Wowza...this flavorful chicken is a great take on traditional grilled chicken! Even the pickiest eaters in my family gave the savory-sweet blueberry-Merlot sauce a big thumbs up. The sauce is a little sweet from the blueberries and honey, and it has a slight kick from the ginger and chile sauce. The Merlot and rosemary provide an earthy depth of flavor. I served my chicken with sweet in-season corn and a pasta salad. What a keeper! I can’t wait to make this again while blueberries are in season and inexpensive.
Make sure to go visit Gallo to learn more about their wine and how well it pairs with BBQ, as well as some great grilling recipes. e you’re at it, make sure to check out Gallos convenient Store Locator and print a coupon for $1 off a bottle of Gallo wine! To learn more about Gallo wines and find out why #SundaySupper is such great fans of their products, be sure to visit Gallo’s social media sites:
Make sure to go visit Gallo to learn more about their wine and how well it pairs with BBQ, as well as some great grilling recipes. e you’re at it, make sure to check out Gallos convenient Store Locator and print a coupon for $1 off a bottle of Gallo wine! To learn more about Gallo wines and find out why #SundaySupper is such great fans of their products, be sure to visit Gallo’s social media sites:
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GalloFamilyVineyards
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/GalloFamily
- Instagram: http://instagram.com/gallofamily
- YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/gallofamilyvineyards
While youre at it, go check out all of the other great wine-inspired grilling dishes that my fellow #SundaySupper contributors are sharing today. Weve got everything from appetizers to desserts, and all of them feature Gallo Merlot or Sweet White Blend wines as an ingredient or a pairing.
Appetizers:
Join the #SundaySupper conversation on twitter tonight! We tweet throughout the day and share recipes from all over the world. Our weekly chat starts at 7:00 pm EST/600 CST. Follow the #SundaySupper hashtag and remember to include it in your tweets to join in the chat. To get more great Sunday Supper Recipes, visit our website or check out our Pinterest board. Would you like to join the Sunday Supper Movement? It’s easy. You can sign up by clicking here: Sunday Supper Movement.
Appetizers:
- Grilled Brie with Tropical Fruit Compote by girlichef
- Grilled Peach Bruschetta by Peanut Butter and Peppers
- Grilled Caesar Salad by Shockingly Delicious
- Grilled Mushrooms with Merlot Reduction by The Messy Baker
- Asian Pork Lettuce Cups by Magnolia Days
- BBQ Hawaiian Chicken Sandwiches by Mommas Meals
- Cheddar Merlot Burgers by Curious Cuisiniere
- Grilled Chicken with Blueberry-Merlot Sauce by The Weekend Gourmet
- Grilled Hawaiian Sea Salt Tuna Nuggets by Family Foodie
- Grilled Honey Lime Chicken by Alidas Kitchen
- Grilled Pork Chops with a Strawberry Jam Glaze by Savvy Eats
- Grilled Ribeye with Mushroom Merlot Sauce by Hezzi-Ds Books and Cooks
- Grilled Shrimp Skewers with a Sweet White Blend Marinade by Country Girl in the Village
- Merlot Marinated Flank Steak with Spicy Chimichurri by Bobbis Kozy Kitchen
- Pimento Cheese Stuffed Merlot Burger by Yours And Mine Are Ours
- Shish Kabobs in Red Wine Rosemary Marinade by The Dinner-Mom
- Tandoori-style Lamb Chops by kimchi MOM
- Grilled Apple Crisp by That Skinny Chick Can Bake
- Grilled Peaches with Mascarpone by Desserts Required
- Vanilla Ice Cream with Grilled Peaches by Hip Foodie Mom
Join the #SundaySupper conversation on twitter tonight! We tweet throughout the day and share recipes from all over the world. Our weekly chat starts at 7:00 pm EST/600 CST. Follow the #SundaySupper hashtag and remember to include it in your tweets to join in the chat. To get more great Sunday Supper Recipes, visit our website or check out our Pinterest board. Would you like to join the Sunday Supper Movement? It’s easy. You can sign up by clicking here: Sunday Supper Movement.Disclosure: Compensation was provided by Gallo Family Vineyards via Sunday Supper, LLC. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author, and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of Gallo Family Vineyards.
Wendys Best Bites
Its time for another edition of Wendys Best Bites. This recurring column lets me share some of my favorite casual dining menu items with you. Todays pics are from recent restaurant visits Ive made, and these items all pass my Big-Flavor test. Be aware that many of these are limited-time, seasonal items -- so where noted, youll have to act quickly to try them before theyre gone.
(1) Avocado Chicken Soft Tacos from El Pollo Loco.
El Pollo Loco is near my office, so I go there once a week for lunch. All it took was one bite of their amazing Avocado Chicken Soft Tacos for them to become one of my favorite lunches! They are full of amazing flavor thanks to a generous serving of marinated fire-grilled chicken, sliced creamy avocado, jack cheese, spicy pico de gallo, crisp cabbage, and flavorful poblano cream. Then everything is carefully wrapped in one of El Pollo Locos soft artisan tortillas. The tortillas are really unique -- theyre soft like a flour tortilla, but they have the earthy flavor of corn tortilla. The chicken has a char-grilled flavor, and the poblano cream reminds me of a spicy ranch dressing. They dont skimp on the avocado either.
(2) Pollo Tropicals 1/4 Chicken Platter. Pollo Tropical just opened its first location here in San Antonio last month, and I predict its going to become a very popular dining destination. Pollo Tropical was founded in Miami in 1988 and has since expanded to locations in Texas, Georgia, and Tennessee -- along with several international locations. Pollo Tropicals menu has a definite Caribbean accent, focusing on grilled chicken, slow-roasted mojo pork, and unique sides. I attended the Grand Opening of the first San Antonio location, and I loved the food! I tried the 1/4 chicken platter, which came with Yucca with Garlic Sauce and Caribbean Corn Soufflé The yucca was starchy and reminded me a bit of potato, and the corn soufflé was like a soft cornbread pudding. The chicken was juicy and flavored all the way to the bone...so good! One of the signature experiences at Pollo Tropical is visiting the sauce bar, which features 10 different sauces. My two favorites were the fruity Pineapple Rum and the creamy Cilantro Garlic.
(3) Cheese Enchilada Platter at Taco Cabana. Taco Cabana is one of our favorite casual Tex-Mex restaurants. Their prices are easy on the wallet, and the food tastes homemade. I cant believe that until recently, I had never tried their cheese enchiladas! In my defense, I love their soft tacos and chicken flautas so much that I dont visit the rest of the menu very often. My mistake, because the cheese enchiladas are fantastic! Theyre filled with gooey melted cheese and topped with flavorful chili gravy. Paired with refried beans and rice, its a filling dinner. This month, Taco Cabana is bringing back its popular Taco Treat fundraiser to benefit the Warrior and Family Support Center (WFSC) at Brooke Army Medical Center here in San Antonio. All Taco Cabana locations in Texas, Oklahoma, and New Mexico are selling $1 coupon books good for five free bean and cheese tacos. Thats a great bargain..and 100% of the proceeds are going to WFSC. The WFSC is dedicated to providing coordinated services to patients, next-of-kin, and extended family members with a primary focus on wounded Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom veterans. The center provides a relaxing entertainment environment for veterans receiving treatment at the Brooke Army Medical Center and their families.
(4) Quattro Formaggio Pizza at Grimaldis. Grimaldis originated in Brooklyn, where the lines go out the door and down the street. In recent years, theyve expanded throughout the country, offering up authentic New York-style pizza. Grimaldis is a great place to go with family or friends and order their amazing coal-fired brick ovens. In addition to our regular favorite -- pepperoni and sausage + pesto -- we sometimes like to try their seasonal specials. This Fall, Grimaldis seasonal pizza is the veg-friendly Quattro Formaggio. This pizza is so good that even avowed carnivores will go nuts for it! The pizza is flavored with Romano, gorgonzola, parmesan, asiago -- in addition to fresh mozzarella. This is a white pizza, meaning it doesnt have tomato sauce. This combination of cheeses is very flavorful -- and the proportions used ensure that the robust gorgonzola doesnt overpower the other cheeses. Paired with a seasonal beer or wine from their extensive wine list and one of their market-fresh salads, youve got a perfect meal.
(5) Create-Your-Own Salad Wrap from Salata Next Generation Salad Bar. Salata is one of our favorite new restaurant finds of last year. We love going in, stepping up to their amazing salad bar, and having one of the friendly servers help us create a custom salad. Every time we go, we create a completely new creation. One time, we might have a Mexican-inspired chicken salad...the next, we might create a Tropical-inspired seafood salad. On our last visit, Michael decided to try a Salad Wrap. Rather than tossing the ingredients in a bowl, they add them to a large wrap and create a hand-held sandwich-salad hybrid. The creation pictured has chicken, corn, pico de gallo, cheddar, and a spicy ranch. If youve never tried Salata, now is the perfect time to visit one of their locations in Texas, California, or Illinois. From now until October 20th, Salata is celebrating their Eat Light at Night campaign. The purpose is to encourage people to enjoy healthy, well-proportioned dinners. Salata mobile club members will receive a variety of discounts -- including a buy one, get one free offer. To sign up for Salatas mobile club, simply text "Salata" to 777111.
(6) Chesters Tasting appetizer platter at East Coast Wings & Grill. North Carolina-based East Coast Wings & Grill has two locations in the San Antonio area, and I recently visited to check out their food. The menu boasts 75 flavors of wings -- as well as burgers, salads, and sandwiches. The best way to try some of the best items on the restaurants 6-page menu is to try the signature Chesters Tasting appetizer platter. This platter is a perfect starter for larger groups -- but a girlfriend and I basically made an entire meal out of it during our visit! The platter features wings (mild, medium, hot, or x-hot), Chicken Pot Stickers, fried mozzarella sticks, fried pickle spears, Bean Stalks (crispy green beans), and slices of Chesters Pub Pretzels. This is all served with a variety of dipping sauces, including: marinara, Bourbon Honey Mustard, and a choice of ranch or Lava Ranch. Everything on this platter was well prepared. The wings were plump and flavorful, and the fried food wasnt the least bit greasy. My two favorite items on the platter were the Bean Stalks and the slightly crispy pretzel bites. This Chesters Tasting truly offers something for everyone!
Disclosure: The restaurants featured hosted The Weekend Gourmet to try these items to facilitate inclusion in Wendys Best Bites. All opinions expressed are my own, and I only share items with you that I tried and personally enjoyed.
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(1) Avocado Chicken Soft Tacos from El Pollo Loco.El Pollo Loco is near my office, so I go there once a week for lunch. All it took was one bite of their amazing Avocado Chicken Soft Tacos for them to become one of my favorite lunches! They are full of amazing flavor thanks to a generous serving of marinated fire-grilled chicken, sliced creamy avocado, jack cheese, spicy pico de gallo, crisp cabbage, and flavorful poblano cream. Then everything is carefully wrapped in one of El Pollo Locos soft artisan tortillas. The tortillas are really unique -- theyre soft like a flour tortilla, but they have the earthy flavor of corn tortilla. The chicken has a char-grilled flavor, and the poblano cream reminds me of a spicy ranch dressing. They dont skimp on the avocado either.
(2) Pollo Tropicals 1/4 Chicken Platter. Pollo Tropical just opened its first location here in San Antonio last month, and I predict its going to become a very popular dining destination. Pollo Tropical was founded in Miami in 1988 and has since expanded to locations in Texas, Georgia, and Tennessee -- along with several international locations. Pollo Tropicals menu has a definite Caribbean accent, focusing on grilled chicken, slow-roasted mojo pork, and unique sides. I attended the Grand Opening of the first San Antonio location, and I loved the food! I tried the 1/4 chicken platter, which came with Yucca with Garlic Sauce and Caribbean Corn Soufflé The yucca was starchy and reminded me a bit of potato, and the corn soufflé was like a soft cornbread pudding. The chicken was juicy and flavored all the way to the bone...so good! One of the signature experiences at Pollo Tropical is visiting the sauce bar, which features 10 different sauces. My two favorites were the fruity Pineapple Rum and the creamy Cilantro Garlic. (3) Cheese Enchilada Platter at Taco Cabana. Taco Cabana is one of our favorite casual Tex-Mex restaurants. Their prices are easy on the wallet, and the food tastes homemade. I cant believe that until recently, I had never tried their cheese enchiladas! In my defense, I love their soft tacos and chicken flautas so much that I dont visit the rest of the menu very often. My mistake, because the cheese enchiladas are fantastic! Theyre filled with gooey melted cheese and topped with flavorful chili gravy. Paired with refried beans and rice, its a filling dinner. This month, Taco Cabana is bringing back its popular Taco Treat fundraiser to benefit the Warrior and Family Support Center (WFSC) at Brooke Army Medical Center here in San Antonio. All Taco Cabana locations in Texas, Oklahoma, and New Mexico are selling $1 coupon books good for five free bean and cheese tacos. Thats a great bargain..and 100% of the proceeds are going to WFSC. The WFSC is dedicated to providing coordinated services to patients, next-of-kin, and extended family members with a primary focus on wounded Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom veterans. The center provides a relaxing entertainment environment for veterans receiving treatment at the Brooke Army Medical Center and their families.
(4) Quattro Formaggio Pizza at Grimaldis. Grimaldis originated in Brooklyn, where the lines go out the door and down the street. In recent years, theyve expanded throughout the country, offering up authentic New York-style pizza. Grimaldis is a great place to go with family or friends and order their amazing coal-fired brick ovens. In addition to our regular favorite -- pepperoni and sausage + pesto -- we sometimes like to try their seasonal specials. This Fall, Grimaldis seasonal pizza is the veg-friendly Quattro Formaggio. This pizza is so good that even avowed carnivores will go nuts for it! The pizza is flavored with Romano, gorgonzola, parmesan, asiago -- in addition to fresh mozzarella. This is a white pizza, meaning it doesnt have tomato sauce. This combination of cheeses is very flavorful -- and the proportions used ensure that the robust gorgonzola doesnt overpower the other cheeses. Paired with a seasonal beer or wine from their extensive wine list and one of their market-fresh salads, youve got a perfect meal.
(5) Create-Your-Own Salad Wrap from Salata Next Generation Salad Bar. Salata is one of our favorite new restaurant finds of last year. We love going in, stepping up to their amazing salad bar, and having one of the friendly servers help us create a custom salad. Every time we go, we create a completely new creation. One time, we might have a Mexican-inspired chicken salad...the next, we might create a Tropical-inspired seafood salad. On our last visit, Michael decided to try a Salad Wrap. Rather than tossing the ingredients in a bowl, they add them to a large wrap and create a hand-held sandwich-salad hybrid. The creation pictured has chicken, corn, pico de gallo, cheddar, and a spicy ranch. If youve never tried Salata, now is the perfect time to visit one of their locations in Texas, California, or Illinois. From now until October 20th, Salata is celebrating their Eat Light at Night campaign. The purpose is to encourage people to enjoy healthy, well-proportioned dinners. Salata mobile club members will receive a variety of discounts -- including a buy one, get one free offer. To sign up for Salatas mobile club, simply text "Salata" to 777111.
(6) Chesters Tasting appetizer platter at East Coast Wings & Grill. North Carolina-based East Coast Wings & Grill has two locations in the San Antonio area, and I recently visited to check out their food. The menu boasts 75 flavors of wings -- as well as burgers, salads, and sandwiches. The best way to try some of the best items on the restaurants 6-page menu is to try the signature Chesters Tasting appetizer platter. This platter is a perfect starter for larger groups -- but a girlfriend and I basically made an entire meal out of it during our visit! The platter features wings (mild, medium, hot, or x-hot), Chicken Pot Stickers, fried mozzarella sticks, fried pickle spears, Bean Stalks (crispy green beans), and slices of Chesters Pub Pretzels. This is all served with a variety of dipping sauces, including: marinara, Bourbon Honey Mustard, and a choice of ranch or Lava Ranch. Everything on this platter was well prepared. The wings were plump and flavorful, and the fried food wasnt the least bit greasy. My two favorite items on the platter were the Bean Stalks and the slightly crispy pretzel bites. This Chesters Tasting truly offers something for everyone!
Disclosure: The restaurants featured hosted The Weekend Gourmet to try these items to facilitate inclusion in Wendys Best Bites. All opinions expressed are my own, and I only share items with you that I tried and personally enjoyed.
Putting the Sizzle in Summer Zesty Margarita Chicken Tacos with Creamy Chipotle Lime Drizzle
I dont know about you, but pretty much the last thing that I want to do when it’s so hot outside is fire up my oven to cook dinner. For me, that means lots of grilling on the stove using my beloved Le Creuset cast-iron grill pan. I was in the mood for tacos this week, so I pulled out one of my favorite cookbook discoveries of last year: 300 Best Taco Recipes. I had flagged a recipe for margarita-flavored chicken soft tacos to try, so that was my springboard for today’s recipe: Zesty Margarita Chicken Tacos with Creamy Chipotle-Lime Drizzle.
I tweaked the recipe, adding a few extra goodies to the flavorful marinade. I also included a spicy-tangy cream drizzle, caramelized Maui onions, crumbled queso fresca, and tangy tomato. These tacos are flavored with non-alcoholic margarita mix in the marinade, which you can find in the mixer aisle of most grocery stores. Make sure to allow at least two hours for the chicken to marinate in the fridge. It can marinate up to overnight, so you could do that prep the evening before or even the morning of the day you plan to serve these yummy tacos.
Zesty Margarita Chicken Tacos
I tweaked the recipe, adding a few extra goodies to the flavorful marinade. I also included a spicy-tangy cream drizzle, caramelized Maui onions, crumbled queso fresca, and tangy tomato. These tacos are flavored with non-alcoholic margarita mix in the marinade, which you can find in the mixer aisle of most grocery stores. Make sure to allow at least two hours for the chicken to marinate in the fridge. It can marinate up to overnight, so you could do that prep the evening before or even the morning of the day you plan to serve these yummy tacos.
Zesty Margarita Chicken Tacos
with Spicy Chipotle-Lime Drizzle
adapted from 300 Best Taco Recipes
Step 1: Make the marinade by combining the following ingredients in a large bowl: the juice of one navel orange, the juice of one lime, 1/4 cup olive oil, 1/2 cup bottled margarita mix (I used Jose Cuervo brand), 1 tbs. honey, 1 tbs. finely chopped shallot, 1 tsp. salt, 1 tsp. lemon pepper, 1 tsp. dried cilantro, and a generous pinch of red pepper flakes. Whisk to combine and add 1.5 lb. boneless chicken breast. Marinate in the fridge at least 2 hours before grilling.
Step 2: Make the creamy drizzle sauce by combining the following ingredients in a bowl: 1 container nonfat Greek yogurt, 1/2 cup mayo, the juice of one lime, 1-2 tbs. chipotle puree from a can of chipotle peppers, and 1 tsp. dried cilantro. Whisk to combine, and refrigerate until youre ready to assemble the tacos.
Step 3: After the chicken has marinated, add 2 tbs. olive oil to a cast-iron grill pan over med-high heat...or fire up your outdoor grill. When the pan is hot, add the chicken breast and cook thoroughly. Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips. While the chicken grills, slice a sweet Maui onion into rounds and caramelize in a skillet with 1 tbs. olive oil.
Step 4: To assemble the tacos, layer the following ingredients onto warmed flour tortillas: sliced avocado, slices of the grilled chicken, some of the caramelized onions, chopped tomato, queso fresca, and some of the creamy drizzle sauce. Roll up...and eat!
This recipe is a keeper! The chicken cooks up very moist, and the marinade gives it a fantastic citrusy flavor. The other components in the taco work very nicely together and provide a nice color contrast too. That chipotle-lime drizzle is really good, and it adds just enough spicy heat to compliment, without overwhelming, the other ingredients! This amount of meat is enough to make 7-8 tacos, so adjust accordingly...depending on how many hungry people you need to feed.
This recipe is a keeper! The chicken cooks up very moist, and the marinade gives it a fantastic citrusy flavor. The other components in the taco work very nicely together and provide a nice color contrast too. That chipotle-lime drizzle is really good, and it adds just enough spicy heat to compliment, without overwhelming, the other ingredients! This amount of meat is enough to make 7-8 tacos, so adjust accordingly...depending on how many hungry people you need to feed.
A Night On the Town San Antonio Bloggers Event with La Madeleine
One of my favorite places to grab lunch with friends or a delicious French pastry to go is La Madeleine...the food is homey and delicious, but the prices are reasonable. I was surprised and very excited when I received an e-mail last week inviting me to attend a VIP blogger event at a local La Madeleine that had recently undergone an extensive remodel. The event was last night, and I had a fantastic time!! I had a chance to see my friend Stephanie from The Chickpea Chickadee...and I met another local food blogger named Lauren from Oh My Puddin. Go check out their blogs if you haven’t...they’re great reads with lots of fun recipes.
I met Stephanie outside the restaurant, and we walked in together. As soon as we entered the restaurant, we were welcomed warmly by a friendly staff member and escorted to a lovely private dining room in the back. We were served wine and had a chance to mingle with some of the other bloggers in attendance. It was really fun to meet some fellow San Antonio bloggers and get to know them and hear a bit about their blogs! I also met Patrick Esquerre, the founder of La Madeleine.
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| Me with La Madeleines founder, Patrick Esquerre. |
Mr. Esquerre is originally from the Loire Valley in France, and he opened the first La Madeleine in Dallas in 1982. As we chatted, he told me one important lesson that he had learned: when you don’t know to do something? Just listen. He opened the first La Madeleine as a restaurant geared toward women. He listened to what his customers liked most about the food, decor, and overall experience. He must have listened very well, because his company quickly grew and has become very successful. Over the past 30 years, he has expanded to 60 locations. Most of his restaurants are in Texas and neighboring states like Oklahoma and Lousiana...but there are also locations in Virginia and Washington, DC.
We had a chance to visit with La Madeleine President and COO Philip Costner as well. He told us about the company’s commitment to providing quality food that is served by friendly employees in a pleasant, welcoming environment. Both he and Mr. Esquerre were so friendly and down-to-earth themselves...which makes me even happier to be a La Madeleine customer. Much like my experience with the Reichert family when I visited Red Gold Tomatoes in Indianapolis earlier this year, it makes me feel a strong personal bond with a company when the very top-level executives treat me so kindly!
We were treated to a buffet featuring some of La Madeleine’s delicious signature items: Casesar salad and tomato-basil soup, Chicken La Madeleine, seasoned green beans, rice pilaf, and quiche. While we ate, we had a chance to learn more about the history of this Texas-based company from both Mr. Esquerre and Mr. Costner.
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| Two of my favorite items at La Madeleine: their famous tomato-basil soup and Caesar salad! |
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| Chicken la Madeleine with a creamy mushroom sauce, seasoned green beans, rice pilaf, and two kinds of quiche. |
After dinner, it was time for a personal tour of the remodeled location to learn about the modifications that were made...and the reasons behind them. This location now features large high-def screens behind the counter at the ordering area. The menu items are easy to read, which helps speed your time in line...and the cook area is open so you can actually see your food being prepared.
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| The addition of large monitors with the menu make ordering faster and easier! |
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| The pastry case...could you pick just one? My favorite are the little mini fruit and cream tarts! |
The restaurant has been designed to have the look and feel of dining in a cozy French country home...and it now feels more open, with high ceilings and wood floors. One of the things that Mr. Costner mentioned that I was happy to hear is that the restaurant has done away with trays. Rather than carry your food to the table when its cooked, you simply take a seat after ordering...and your food is served to you.
Before we knew it, it was time for dessert...my favorite part of any meal! We were treated to an assortment of mini pastries and mini parfaits, along with their classic Strawberries Romanoff. I correctly guessed the three ingredients in the delicious Romanoff sauce, so I was given a $10 gift card to use the next time I eat at La Madeleine!
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| A tray of delicious mini tarts and mini parfaits. I love the mini fruit tarts, but tried something new this time: the strawberry cheese mini parfait! It was the perfect little after-dinner sweet bite! |
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| One of La Madeleines signature desserts: Strawberries Romanoff...fresh strawberries topped with a delicious, creamy sauce. The sauce is the perfect consistency...not too thick, not too thin! |
Heavy thunderstorms were in the forecast, so it was time to say adieu after dessert and head home. There was still one last surprise waiting for us: La Madeleine logo tote bags filled with gifts for us to take home! Each blogger was given a package of fresh-baked oatmeal-raisin mini cookies, a baguette, a jar of their new low-fat tomato-basil soup, and a $10 gift card for a future visit. Our hosts were so generous...I can’t thank them enough for inviting me to their lovely location last night. I love eating delicious food like whats served at La Madeleine...but knowing how genuinely nice the people who run the company are? That makes it even better!
The Weekend Gourmet Dines Out at Salatas Next Generation Salad Bar
The variety of ingredients offered on Salatas salad bar is amazing! Starting with several types of salad greens, your personalized creation is assembled in front of your eyes by a friendly server in a large metal bowl. You can choose from a variety of chopped veggies, beans, nuts, fresh and dried fruits, cheeses and a variety of proteins. The prices cant be beat: a large salad is $8, and a wrap is $7. For $2 extra, you can add one of several flavors of diced chicken breast...and for $3 extra, you can add flavored shrimp or grilled salmon. I had a great time creating my salad. They also offer several varieties of soup daily to pair with your salad or wrap.
If you live in a city where Salata is currently located, I hope youll stop in and check them out soon! Their new salad bar concept is really fun...and the food is fresh and delicious. Were already planning a repeat visit very soon. Salata offers so many ingredients that you can create a variety of salad combinations. In the mood for Mexican? Stick with spicy and savory ingredients and the Chipotle Ranch dressing. Feeling like something sweet? Go with fruit, nuts, shrimp and Fat Free Mango dressing. The possibilities are endless...and healthy!
Disclosure: Salata provided us with a gift card to purchase two entrees to facilitate this feature. I receive no further compensation, and all opinions expressed are my own.
A MovieNight4Less with Orville Redenbachers and M Ms� Featuring PB Chocolate Popcorn Wolf Pack Snack Mix CollectiveBias
This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone.
PB-Chocolate Popcorn "Wolf Pack" Snack Mix
a Weekend Gourmet Original
Ingredients:
- 1 package Orville Redenbachers microwave popcorn
- 2 cups bite-sized pretzels
- 1 cup M&Ms® milk chocolate candies
- 1 cup M&Ms® peanut butter candies
- 3/4 cup honey-roasted peanuts
For the glaze:
- 1 stick butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup corn syrup or honey
- 1 tsp. dark cocoa powder
- 2 tbs. peanut butter
- 1 tsp. baking soda
Directions:
Step 1: Preheat oven to 350 and place parchment or foil on top of a large rimmed baking sheet; set aside. Pop the popcorn in the microwave per package directions. Add the popped corn and the bite-size pretzels to a large mixing bowl. Stir well to combine.
Step 2: Make the glaze by adding the butter, sugar, brown sugar, corn syrup or honey, cocoa powder, and peanut butter to a 4-cup measuring cup or large microwave-safe bowl. Microwave until the mixture begins to boil -- about 3 minutes. Give the glaze a stir and microwave for one minute longer -- the mixture to be a full rolling boil. Immediately add the baking soda. The mixture will begin to foam, so dont panic!
Step 3: Pour the glaze evenly over the popcorn and pretzels in the mixing bowl. Work quickly to evenly coat the popcorn and pretzels with the glaze. Place the popcorn-pretzel mixture onto the reserved rimmed baking sheet in an even layer. Bake for 25-30 minutes, giving the mixture a stir every 10 minutes. Let the mixture cool completely on the baking sheet -- about 1 hour.
Step 4: Add the cooled popcorn-pretzel mixture to a large mixing bowl. Add the milk chocolate and peanut butter M&Ms® and honey-roasted peanuts. Toss well to combine and add to a towel-lined basket for easy serving.
For peanut butter and chocolate lovers, this snack mix is the ultimate movie munchie! The Orville Redenbachers popcorn pops up light and fluffy, the M&Ms® provide a punch of chocolate, and the pretzels and peanuts add just the right amount of salt! The glaze is a cross between caramel and fudge, with a nice amount of chocolate and peanut butter flavors. Add it up, and youve got one addictive little snack mix.
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