lemons Archives - Cooking Classy with a sprinkle of fancy Sat, 30 Sep 2023 18:14:53 +0000 en-US hourly 1 44235149 Chicken Schnitzel https://www.cookingclassy.com/chicken-schnitzel/ https://www.cookingclassy.com/chicken-schnitzel/#comments Sat, 30 Sep 2023 18:12:03 +0000 https://www.cookingclassy.com/?p=68766 Pan fried Chicken Schnitzel - made with thinly flattened, tender chicken breasts, a light seasoning, a simple breading and cooked in a hot skillet to achieve a beautifully golden brown, super crisp finish.

From there you can serve it with simply fresh herbs and tart lemon wedges for spritzing, or your favorite dipping sauce (honey mustard, bbq sauce, ranch etc), chicken gravy or other creamy pan sauce.

Chicken schnitzel shown served with lemons and a spring salad.

What is Chicken Schnitzel?

Schnitzel is a German and Austrian dish made with meat that is pounded very thin then it's coated in a standard three layer breading including flour, eggs and some type of bread crumb (such as bread crumbs, matzo meal or in this case panko), after that it's fried in a bit of oil until browned and cooked through.

To me chicken schnitzel is like a grown up, fancier version of chicken nuggets with a similar taste and texture. Just simple but delicious, with an excellent texture.

It's a straightforward process to follow and easier to make than you'd think. And I'd say yes it is definitely worth the extra dishes it takes to bread the chicken.

It is a dinner item my family has requested be added to a regular rotation, and I have the feeling yours may agree with that too!

Wondering what to serve with chicken schnitzel?

I recommend serving with:

Tray with four servings of flattened and breaded golden brown chicken schnitzel.

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Cucumber Sandwiches https://www.cookingclassy.com/cucumber-sandwiches/ https://www.cookingclassy.com/cucumber-sandwiches/#comments Wed, 19 Jul 2023 04:11:22 +0000 https://www.cookingclassy.com/?p=67945 Classic Cucumber Sandwiches! Light, refreshing, and unbelievably easy to make, they’re a staple finger food for afternoon tea, baby showers, bridal showers, picnics, and every occasion in between! 

Close up photo of stack of cucumber sandwiches on a cake stand.

Where Did Cucumber Sandwiches Originate? 

Cucumber sandwiches are often thought of as an English tradition. So, you might be surprised to learn that they were originally created in India. From there, they spread to China, the Middle East, and Europe. 

It is said that the sandwiches were created by British colonists in India who were trying to find foods that would fill their bellies and relieve them from the intense heat. The sandwiches then made their way back to England and became a staple component of Victorian-era high teas. 

Today, they remain a popular recipe and are enjoyed all over the world. Quick, easy, and delicious, it’s not hard to see why they have been enjoyed for thousands of years. I’ll show you how to make them in minutes for the perfect snack, appetizer, or light lunch! 

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Beef Shawarma https://www.cookingclassy.com/beef-shawarma/ https://www.cookingclassy.com/beef-shawarma/#comments Mon, 19 Jun 2023 17:11:15 +0000 https://www.cookingclassy.com/?p=67813 This Beef Shawarma recipe is a delicious homemade take on a classic Middle Eastern street food! Steak pieces are marinated with some bright acidity and warm spices, then seared to tender perfection on a sizzling hot pan. It’s a remarkably flavorful, easy beef recipe that’s sure to satisfy! 

Close up photo of beef shawarma steak strips.

What is Beef Shawarma?

If you’ve never had beef shawarma, you’re in for a treat.! A famous Middle Eastern street food, shawarma is made with chicken or beef that is heavily marinated in oil, lemon juice, and warm spices. Then, it is placed on a vertical rotisserie or spit and slow-roasted for days until it is unbelievably tender. 

Most commonly, it is shaved off and served stuffed into bread with fresh toppings and a drizzle of tahini or tzatziki. However, you can also find it presented as part of a platter along with sides like tabbouleh and hummus. No matter how it’s plated, it’s always incredible and is guaranteed to leave you coming back for more. 

Don’t worry, though. You don’t need a fancy spit to make your own beef shawarma at home. I’ll show you how to create the same bold flavor and tender texture by searing on the stovetop instead! 

Seared beef shawarma strips shown on a platter with serving suggestions.

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Chicken Shish Tawook https://www.cookingclassy.com/shish-tawook/ https://www.cookingclassy.com/shish-tawook/#comments Sat, 17 Jun 2023 05:47:31 +0000 https://www.cookingclassy.com/?p=67600 This Chicken Shish Tawook is one of my favorite Middle Eastern recipes! Chicken pieces are marinated in a warmly spiced, brightly flavorful lemon and yogurt sauce then grilled to tender, juicy perfection. It’s easy to make and pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. 

Grilled shish tawook skewers on a platter with parsley and hummus.

What Is Shish Tawook?

In the Turkish language, “shish” means skewer, and “tawook,” also sometimes spelled tauk, means chicken. Put together, the two translate to mean chicken skewer or chicken kebab. 

Believed to have first been served during the Ottoman Empire, shish tawook quickly became popular throughout the entire Middle East, spreading into Egypt and Levant during the Ottoman’s rule. 

It features pieces of chicken that are soaked in a yogurt marinade infused with garlic, lemon juice, and lots of warm spices. It is then grilled or baked until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. 

Thanks to the marinade, chicken shish tawook always turns out juicy and is virtually fail proof. It’s one of my all-time favorite recipes and is always what I order when we dine at Middle Eastern restaurants. Luckily, it’s simple to make at home, too! 

What’s the difference between chicken shish tawook and chicken shawarma? 

Both dishes are made with boneless skinless chicken and Middle Eastern spices, but they are not the same. There are key differences in how the two recipes are created and prepared. 

  • Shish tawook is created with a creamy, yogurt-based marinade that features garlic, warm seasonings, and tomato paste. As a result, it has a rich, bold flavor and a distinct hue. 
  • Alternatively, shawarma does not use yogurt or tomato paste. Instead, an olive oil-based marinade creates a stronger citrus flavor with warmer seasonings and a slightly spicier flavor. 
  • Traditionally, shish tawook is grilled on skewers, and shawarma roasts long and slow on a spit. Although, you can also make oven baked chicken shawarma at home.
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Tabbouleh https://www.cookingclassy.com/tabbouleh/ https://www.cookingclassy.com/tabbouleh/#comments Tue, 13 Jun 2023 22:35:45 +0000 https://www.cookingclassy.com/?p=67499 This Easy Tabbouleh Recipe is a vibrant, filling side dish! Soft yet chewy bulgur wheat combines with fresh veggies, bright herbs, and a rich olive oil dressing. Simple to make, it’s the perfect pairing for all your favorite main courses. 

Herb tabbouleh shown in a white ceramic bowl over a yellow cloth.

What Is Tabbouleh? 

Tabbouleh, also known as tabouli or tabbouleh salad, is a popular Middle Eastern side dish. No matter how it is spelled, the root of the word comes from the Arabic word ‘taabil’ which means to season or spice. The dish is believed to be more than 4,000 years old, having first been eaten by people in the mountains of Lebanon and Syria. 

Today, there are many variations of the dish, but it always consists of fresh produce and contains a few staple ingredients such as bulgur, parsley, tomatoes, olive oil, and lemon juice.

With its satisfying texture and a bright, savory flavor, it’s not hard to see why tabbouleh has quickly grown in popularity throughout the world. In fact, it’s won over the heart of so many that the first Saturday of July is known as National Tabbouleh Day in Lebanon. 

If you’ve never had it, tabbouleh is sure to become a fast favorite in your home.  

Is It Healthy? 

Generally speaking, tabbouleh is an extremely healthy dish. Naturally nut-free, dairy-free, vegan, and vegetarian, it’s full of fiber, vitamins, and nutrients, making it a nutritious option. 

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Sun Dried Tomato Pasta https://www.cookingclassy.com/sun-dried-tomato-pasta/ https://www.cookingclassy.com/sun-dried-tomato-pasta/#comments Mon, 05 Jun 2023 02:37:18 +0000 https://www.cookingclassy.com/?p=67607 Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta - It’s a comforting dish made with tender pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, herbaceous flavor, and plenty of cheese. Ready in just over 30 minutes, it’s practically guaranteed to become a family favorite! 

Sun dried tomato pasta with spinach and basil.

Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta 

This tomato pasta recipe is one of my go-to options for busy weeknights. Made with just one pot and a saucepan, it’s ready in just a little over 30 minutes. You really can’t go wrong. 

If you’ve never had sun-dried tomatoes in pasta, prepare to be amazed. They’re one of my favorite ways to spruce up a simple dish with a pop of color and a rich, savory, slightly smokey flavor. 

I love to include them in recipes like my sun dried tomato basil and Parmesan orzo with chicken and this spaghetti with sun dried tomatoes and spinach. However, this tomato pasta might be my favorite sun-dried tomato recipe yet. 

Made with al dente pasta tossed in a vibrant tomato sauce, it’s rich, creamy, and unbelievably satisfying. Plus, it features fresh spinach for a boost of nutrients and fiber. 

Basically, this sun dried tomato pasta has everything you could want in a homemade dinner and more. Quick to make, it’s easy enough for weeknights yet elegant enough for special occasions. It’s sure to have all of your guests coming back for more!  

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Summery Chicken Pasta Salad https://www.cookingclassy.com/chicken-pasta-salad/ https://www.cookingclassy.com/chicken-pasta-salad/#comments Sat, 20 May 2023 14:23:37 +0000 https://www.cookingclassy.com/?p=67543 Summery Chicken Pasta Salad - Made with fun mini bowtie pasta, a lemony herb flecked dressing, sharp cheddar, crisp veggies, flavor rich bacon, and tender rotisserie chicken. This is an absolute crowd pleaser!

Chicken Pasta Salad with bacon, cheddar and corn.

Club Chicken Pasta Salad

This is a family favorite pasta salad! It's similar to the taste of a club chicken sandwich meets a ranch salad. In other words it's completely irresistible!

It has all the best flavors including the unmistakable taste of dill, sweet corn, vibrant tomatoes, crave-able cheese, meaty bacon, bone-in cooked chicken, and a rich tangy dressing. And if you want one more summery mix-in you can also include in a buttery avocado.

It makes an extra large batch which is perfectly fitting for a summer cook out of about 12 people, but the recipe can easily be halved as well for a smaller family lunch or dinner (amounts are included at the bottom of the recipe).

Though you'll find it also keeps well in the fridge so you may opt to just make the full batch and have the extra for lunch that's ready to go the following few days.

This chicken pasta salad is chilled and refreshing and perfect for a hot summer day. Plus it's such a tasty upgrade from traditional pasta salad. So much delicious goodness in every serving!

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Ranch Dip https://www.cookingclassy.com/ranch-dip/ https://www.cookingclassy.com/ranch-dip/#respond Mon, 24 Apr 2023 02:58:45 +0000 https://www.cookingclassy.com/?p=67180 Homemade Ranch Dip - this is rich and creamy, lively herbaceous, and it's an easy refreshing way to upgrade fresh vegetables. It's excellent for lunches, parties, outdoor cookouts or just to have on hand to snack on with nutritious veggies.

Ranch vegetable dip on a serving tray with a rainbow of chopped fresh vegetables.

Easy Sour Cream Ranch Dip Recipe

A cool veggie ranch dip that's better than packet mixes but nearly just as easy to make!

It's brimming with fresh flavor, it's supremely creamy, and the added fat in the dip may help better absorb the nutrients of fresh vegetables.

It only requires a handful of ingredients and there are several variations to switch the flavor profile up.

Ways to Use It

And it isn't limited to just use as just a condiment for vegetables. You can use this ranch dip to dunk chicken nuggets or chicken tenders, pizza, baked fries, chips, or crackers.

You could also use it as a spread for a sandwich or over a turkey burger. So many possibilities with this deliciously tasty, abundantly herby dip!

Close up photo of ranch dip in a wooden bowl.

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Banana Pudding https://www.cookingclassy.com/banana-pudding/ https://www.cookingclassy.com/banana-pudding/#comments Tue, 11 Apr 2023 03:18:23 +0000 https://www.cookingclassy.com/?p=67262 This is our idea of the best Homemade Banana Pudding recipe! A dreamy dessert that's made with a rich homemade vanilla pudding, and abundance of fresh bananas, and two layers vanilla wafer cookies that soak up some of the pudding as they soften to the perfect texture.

Banana pudding in glass square dish with scoop removed to show layers of the dessert.

Homemade Banana Pudding

This banana pudding recipe has it all. The pudding is made with half and half for richness, egg yolks and cornstarch for a sure thickening, just the right amount of sweetness, and to fancy it up we add a vanilla bean and fresh grated nutmeg for flavor.

Then it includes a generous amount of just ripened bananas, and of course those simple but ever so nostalgic store-bought vanilla wafers. And no baking required.

It's as good as it gets!

This is a year round dessert that's perfect for a holiday celebration, a welcome addition to a weekend dinner, or just because you want a treat yourself kind of indulgence today.

Serve it up laid back casserole style in a baking dish or make it more elegant and serve in individual tumblers or dessert cups.

Have family or friends help with this fun layered cooking project that once complete is amazingly refreshing and satisfying with each and every bite!

Glass cups of layered banana pudding.

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Green Beans Almondine https://www.cookingclassy.com/green-beans-almondine/ https://www.cookingclassy.com/green-beans-almondine/#comments Sun, 02 Apr 2023 02:30:28 +0000 https://www.cookingclassy.com/?p=66547 The BEST Green Beans Almondine - it is a French side dish recipe made with fresh green beans that are skillet steamed and finished with sliced toasted almonds. Here we've customized it a few upgrades including smoky bacon, bright lemon and flavorful parmesan to elevate it to a sensational side dish.

Beautiful Green Bean Almondine. Sauteed green beans are shown lined up in a row on a platter with toasted almonds, crumbled fried bacon and grated parmesan are sprinkled over the top.

Fresh Green Beans Almondine

Traditional Green Bean Almondine is good but we like to go beyond simply good and upgrade that to exceptional around here.

In this vegetable side dish you get a delicious fusion of flavors and textures with tender crisp green beans, lively garlic, salty bacon, crunchy almonds, sharp parmesan, and tart lemon.

It turns an ordinary vegetable into something with crowd-pleasing flavor that will be the talk of the meal.

People may very well be saying "I never knew green beans could be so delicious!"

And you'll be happy with the fact that it really is quite easy to make. Try this at your next holiday get together or for a fancy Sunday supper.

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