Wednesday, February 25, 2015

Salmon Pasta

Salmon-Pasta
Salmon Pasta
 
 

     While in Tuscany this past summer I had really wanted to try a salmon pasta dish that I kept seeing on menu boards. However I was unlucky in doing so as I had so many other options for dishes that I wanted to try as well. Back home I decided to try this dish and see if it was any good. I would have preferred to utilize smoked salmon, however was unable to find some. Actually funny story, the next week I went to the store, right there they were. Anyways, back to this dish. Even though I hoped to use a better salmon I did use the canned kind and it was still very good. I was surprised how much I liked this dish. I know there is a stigma against using cheese and seafood, but until you try it, don't knock it. Please enjoy my Salmon Pasta.



Ingredients:
  • 1 small filet smoked salmon, (or you can use canned salmon)
  • 1 small diced shallot
  • 1 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup shredded pecorino Romano
  • 1/2 cup white wine
  • 1 tsp dill seed or weed
  • 1 tbs fresh parsley
  • 1 large diced clove garlic
  • 1/2 juiced lemon
  • Olive oil
  • Pasta of choice


1. In a medium skillet over high heat drizzle a bit of olive oil and toss in the shallots and sauté.



2. Next mix in the garlic and sauté until fragrant.



3. Add in the salmon and sauté just for a minute before adding in the dill and then the white wine. Simmer until the wine has reduced.



4. Stir in the cream and lemon juice and bring to a simmer.



5. Mix in the cheese. Once incorporated toss with your favorite pasta and sprinkle with some fresh parsley.



If you are like me you will love this dish. I surprisingly love fresh pasta in a cream sauce. I don't know what it is but it is one of my favorite.



Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15-20 minutes
Serves: 2-4 people

 




Tuesday, February 3, 2015

Burrito Casserole

Burrito Casserole
Burrito Casserole
 
 
     This dish was inspired by one of those nights where you are just craving one thing and decide to turn it into a completely other thing. This "casserole" was fantastic. All the great flavors of a delicious wonderful burrito. The beans, the meat, the corn, onion, and don’t forget the cheese. This is so easy and quick that it makes for a perfect meal during a busy weeknight. Or if you want you can make it before hand and stick it in the fridge to bake when in a pinch. I will definitely be making this dish again sometime soon. Very good. Burrito Casserole.

 Ingredients:
  • Flour tortilla
  • 12 oz can refried beans
  • 1/2 jar salsa, (your favorite)
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 packet taco seasoning
  • Frozen corn
  • Green onion
  • Cheddar cheese


1. In a large skillet brown the ground beef over medium high heat. Drain off excess fat if needed.

2. Mix in a 1/3 cup water and taco seasoning. Boil and simmer until the liquid has evaporated and all the taco seasoning has been absorbed by the beef. Set aside.

3. Meanwhile in a microwave bowel combine the refried beans and salsa and microwave for about 30-60 minutes just until you are able to mix the two together and able to spread easily.

4.  Dice up your green onion. In a medium greased baking dish layer some flour tortillas. Spread some of the bean salsa mixture on top. Sprinkle some of the beef mixture. Then add some frozen corn and green onion. Repeat layers until you reach the top of the baking dish.

5. Top off with some cheddar cheese and bake covered for 20-30 minutes. Remove the cover and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese starts to brown.

    Who doesn't love some browned cheese cooked on top?  That's it. A simple and delicious Burrito Casserole. Hope you enjoy.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30-40 minutes
Serves: 4-5