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Mexican Street Corn Dip

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This easy appetizer is ready in under 30 minutes and is full of flavor. Not too spicy, not too sweet, and absolutely delicious, this Mexican Street Corn Dip is a crowd-pleaser!

Mexican Street Corn Dip


Elote, commonly called Mexican street corn, is bursting with flavor and spice. It’s simple yet delicious combination of boiled or grilled corn on the cob covered in chili powder, cotija cheese, lime juice, and mayonnaise has made it a favorite among families who enjoy its unique taste.

Since I love traditional Elote, I decided I should make a few spins on the classic. You all love my Mexican Street Corn Soup, so I thought you would also enjoy a simple appetizer. Plus, you serve it with tortilla chips…and who can resist an appetizer with chips?! I know I can’t….after making his I had to put the chips away and a handful of carrots!

Easy Mexican Street Corn Dip

What is the history of Mexican Street Corn?

Mexican street corn is a classic dish that packs a flavorful punch. It’s a favorite among foodies, and you can find it at festivals, restaurants, and street corners across Mexico and the United States.

The traditional Mexican Street Corn Elote recipe was developed in Mexico in the 1950s as a way of making use of leftover corn from the harvest season. Cooks would mix sweet corn with mayonnaise or cream cheese as well as spices like chili powder and cotija cheese for a unique flavor combination. The result: A savory-sweet combo that everyone loves!

Mexican street food favorite is a delicious snack that can be eaten any time of day as a snack, side dish or appetizer. It’s also delicious as a dip 😉

Tasty Mexican Street Corn Dip

Mexican Street Corn Dip Key Ingredients

  • Corn
  • Jalapeno
  • Cotija cheese
  • Mayo
  • Sour cream
  • Seasonings
  • Hot sauce
  • Lime
Best Mexican Street Corn Dip

To make Mexican Street Corn Dip you simply mix together all those amazing ingredients and enjoy. Using roasted corn will enhance the flavor, but if you don’t have the time or if fresh corn isn’t in season, you can use frozen or canned corn as a substitute…Just add some extra salt 😉

Elote Mexican Street Corn Dip

Do you serve Mexican Street Corn Dip hot or cold?

Either! It’s delicious either way.

Elote Dip

Is there a substitute for cojita cheese?

It is the best option, but if you can’t find it (I had a hard time!) you can use queso fresco or a fresh Parmesan cheese.

How to make Mexican Street Corn Dip

What do you serve with Mexican Street Corn Dip?

Tortillas chips are my favorite, but fresh vegetables are yummy as well.

Alright, let’s make some dip shall we? Oh wait! Before we do that, be sure to check out my Mexican Street Corn Soup – equally as delicious!

Mexican Street Corn Soup

Ok, now let’s make that appetizer!

Mexican Street Corn Dip
Print Recipe

Mexican Street Corn Dip

Gotta love a deliciously easy appetizer that is ready to feed a crowd in under 30 minutes! This Mexican Street Corn Dip can be served cold or hot.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Course: Appetizer, Appetizer | Condiment, Snack
Cuisine: Mexican, Tex-Mex
Keyword: appetizers, corn, easy appetizer, easy recipes, elote
Servings: 8
Author: Tracy

Ingredients

  • 6 ears of corn
  • 1 jalapeno diced
  • 1 cup low fat mayonnaise
  • ½ cup light sour cream
  • ¼ cup cotija cheese plus more for garnish (optional)
  • 2 tbsp hot sauce I used Cholula
  • ½ tsp chili powder
  • ½ tsp ground cumin
  • ¼ tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • Juice from 1 lime
  • Cilantro for garnish optional

Instructions

  • Roast or grill the corn. GRILLING DIRECTIONS: Roast the corn, still in the husks, over medium high heat, until the husks are well-charred, about 5 minutes. OVEN DIRECTIONS: Roast the corn, still in the husks, in a 350°F oven for 30 minutes.
  • In a medium bowl mix together; mayonnaise, sour cream, hot sauce, seasonings, lime juice, and cotija cheese.
  • Once the corn to roasted and cooled, cut the corn off the cob.
  • Add the corn kernels and dices jalapeno to the mayo/sour cream mixture.
  • Garnish with extra cotija cheese and chopped cilantro (optional).
  • Serve with chips or veggies.
  • Enjoy!

Notes

You can use frozen or canned corn, but roasted fresh corn will give you the best flavor.

I hope you enjoy this easy Mexican Street Corn Dip as much as we do!

Check out all the recipes on Food Wine Sunshine and follow me on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram for more FOOD WINE AND SUNSHINE.

Leftover Halloween Candy Apple Salad

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Grab some leftover Halloween Candy and let’s add some apples to it to make a delicious Candy Bar Apple Salad. This easy dessert is ready in under 10 minutes. While this post is sponsored by Florida Dairy Farmers, all opinions and the recipe are my own.

Leftover Halloween Candy Apple Salad

Leftover Halloween Candy Apple Salad

So in a few short weeks we are going to have a bunch of candy in the house. And while my kids are in their teens, I still try to get them to eat more fruit…hello, grab that apple instead of that handful of chocolate…PLEASE? Yeah right. It’s not happening. So, I decided why not put the candy with the fruit, then they have to eat them both?! I mean, they are going to eat the candy anyway, might as well get some fruit in there with it, right??

Leftover Halloween Candy Bar Apple Salad

The beauty of this “salad” is that you can put in just about any fruit you have on hand…Pears would be a lovely addition, those little mandarins, even pineapple…whatever you got and you want the kids to eat…put it in there! Because, let’s be honest just about every fruit I can think of pairs perfectly with chocolate.

Halloween is all about balance! Having fun, making memories, and yes, enjoying a little candy along the way. Instead of letting that candy stash linger in the pantry until Christmas, this Candy Bar Apple Salad is a creative (and delicious!) way to enjoy it. Juicy apples add crunch and freshness, while the creamy pudding base ties it all together for a treat that feels indulgent but still sneaks in fruit and nutrients. It’s a win for parents, a win for kids, and the perfect way to keep the Halloween spirit alive a little longer.

Easy Leftover Halloween Candy Apple Salad

You have the added nutrients from the fruit, then you are making this candy bar salad with milk, so you are also getting vitamins and nutrients from milk. Look at that…this may become my new favorite salad 😉

Tasty Leftover Halloween Candy Apple Salad

Normally I would have used Sugar Free pudding mix when making something sweet, because honestly I can’t usually tell the difference, but I went to two stores and they were both out, so regular won. Next time I make it, I will use the sugar free option…and if you use sugar free to make this leftover Halloween candy apple salad, let me know which brand you use and how it was! My friend said she saw some at Aldi the other day, so I’ll grab some the next time I’m there.

Best Leftover Halloween Candy Apple Salad

This Candy and Fruit Salad is a great way to use leftover Halloween candy, you can also make it any time of the year! Any time you want to increase fruit consumption in the house and you think you need the help of a little chocolate, this Candy Bar Apple Salad is an excellent option.

Candy Bar Apple Salad

Leftover Halloween Candy Bar Fruit Salad Key Ingredients

  • Florida Milk
  • Instant pudding mix
  • Whipped topping
  • Chocolate candy
  • Apples – or your fruit of choice
Easy Candy Bar Apple Salad

How to make Leftover Candy Apple Salad

It’s super simple! All you have to do is mix the Florida Milk, pudding mix and the whipped topping. Then toss in the diced chocolate candy and diced apples. Stir and refrigerate until ready to enjoy. Serve with a tall glass of Florida Milk.

Easy Candy Bar Fruit Salad

This Leftover Halloween Candy Apple Salad makes a bunch, but exactly how many servings really depends on how big your servings are! We got about 15 small bowls out of ours, but you may get less…or more! It will stay in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. My guess is that it won’t last that long though 😉

Best Candy Bar Fruit Salad

So while this Candy Bar Apple Salad is the ultimate way to use up leftover Halloween candy, don’t feel like you have to wait for October to make it. Have a birthday party with extra sweets? Picked up too much chocolate on sale after a holiday? This salad is the perfect “use what you have” dessert. The combination of creamy pudding, fresh fruit, and candy pieces works in any season, making it a fun and easy treat whenever you’re craving something sweet with a little extra crunch. Trust me, your family will happily help you make sure there are no leftovers 😉

Ok, let’s make some Candy Bar Apple Salad shall we?

Leftover Halloween Candy Apple Salad
Print Recipe

Leftover Halloween Candy Fruit Salad

Ready in just 10 minutes, this is an easy dessert the whole family will love! Plus it's a great way to enjoy fresh fruit and use up that leftover Halloween candy.
Prep Time10 minutes
Course: Dessert, Dessert/Snack, Snack
Keyword: apple, dessert, dessert recipe, desserts, halloween
Servings: 12
Author: Tracy

Ingredients

  • Leftover Halloween Candy I used 4 fun size kit kats and 4 reese's from the same bag – feel free to use whatever halloween candy you have leftover! – cut into small pieces
  • 1 1/2 cups Florida Milk I used 2%
  • 1 3.4 oz vanilla instant pudding mix feel free to get creative and try other flavors or the Sugar Free option
  • 8 oz whipped topping thawed, I used the lite variety.
  • 3-4 apples cut into bite size pieces you can also use pears, mandarins, pineapple…any fruit you have on hand! You just want about 4 cups of diced fruit…feel free to add more if desired.

Instructions

  • In a large bowl, mix the Florida milk and pudding mix.
  • Allow it to sit for 1 – 2 minutes, the mixture will start to thicken.
  • Fold in whipped topping.
  • Add in apples and leftover Halloween candy pieces.
  • Refrigerate until ready to enjoy!

Notes

*mixture will continue to thicken as it sets

What do you usually do with leftover Halloween candy? Donate it? Use it in lunches? What fruit will you use to make this Candy Bar Fruit Salad?

Be sure to check out Florida Milk for more dairy-licious recipes and follow on Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest.

And while you are at it, check out all the recipes on Food Wine Sunshine and follow me on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram for more FOOD WINE AND SUNSHINE.

Chicken and Vegetable Biscuit Cups

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These Chicken and Vegetable Biscuit Cups are ready in under 30 minutes, making them an easy and delicious weeknight meal idea! While this post is sponsored by Healthy Family Project, all opinions and my love for supporting the brands that are supporting my local food banks…are my own!

Chicken and Vegetable Biscuit Cups

Chicken and Vegetable Biscuit Cups

Deciding what to make for dinner can be a challenge. You may think that since I actually make and photograph food for a living, I always know what to make for dinner. Nope. Most nights I have no clue. So, when a little creativity strikes and I come up with something that’s new (for us), easy to make, and I know the kids will like it I consider that a win. Toss in the fact that by purchasing some of the ingredients from Publix I am actually supporting my local food bank, I consider that a huge win.

I have told you guys before that Healthy Family Project teams up with Publix a few times throughout the year in Produce For Kids campaigns. These campaigns are designed to help encourage families to purchase more fruits and vegetables to help create a healthier generation. The sponsors of each campaign actually donate money to Feeding America, which in turn helps support your local food banks!

So, by supporting the sponsors, you are showing them that you not only love their products, but you appreciate that they are helping the community.

Like in my chicken and vegetable biscuits cups, I used Ayco asparagus and Sunset tomatoes. And while I was at Publix, I also grabbed suja Immunity shots (I have a lot of travel in the next few weeks), Mucci Farms mini cucumber poppers (they are the easiest snack throughout the day!), some Fresh Express bagged salads (my hubby takes one for lunch everyday), and I restocked up on my favorite GT’s (Gingerade, Lemon Berry and Sacred Life are my current faves). By making those purchases during the campaign, I am supporting the brands that are supporting Feeding America.

Here are the all sponsors to look for when shopping at Publix:

Produce for Kids Publix sponsors

But, if your memory is like mine, you won’t remember this list….I know I have a hard time remembering what I did this morning, let alone a list! Well, good news is that as you walk around your produce department at Publix you will see signs in front of the supporting partners. Each sign will have the brand name, a beautiful picture and a QR code. You can scan that QR code and it will take you to a FREE ecookbook filled with lots of healthy, family-friendly recipes.

You can also grab the free eCookbook here.

Easy Chicken and Vegetable Biscuit Cups

Ok, now that you know where to shop and how to decide which brands to support while shopping, let’s get to my Chicken and Vegetable Biscuit Cups shall we??

There is just something comforting about biscuits, and then when you add your dinner right into the biscuit, now you got yourself a fun meal 😉

Tasty Chicken and Vegetable Biscuit Cups

Chicken and Vegetable Biscuit Cups Key Ingredients

  • Chicken – I went for easy and got the pre-cooked chicken in the refrigerated section.
  • Refrigerated biscuits
  • Asparagus
  • Tomatoes
  • Cream of Chicken soup
  • Milk – I used Florida Milk, of course
  • Onions, garlic, and seasonings

Now, out of all the veggies out there, I will openly admit that asparagus and tomatoes aren’t in my kiddos Top 5 Favorites, so the fact that they ate these up without a question made me pretty happy. My son described them as mini chicken pot pies…I’ll take that 🙂

Best Chicken and Vegetable Biscuit Cups

Now this recipe is for 10 biscuit cups, which was plenty for my family of four…in fact, I had two leftover (which my son had for lunch the next day) and I still had a little bit of the chicken and vegetable “filling” left. So, I made some pasta and added the leftover chicken and vegetable mix to the pasta…it made a creamy chicken and vegetable pasta that my daughter enjoyed for dinner the next night. I love double-duty meals, don’t you?!

How to make Chicken and Vegetable Biscuit Cups

What exactly are Biscuit Cups?

They are a fun way to eat dinner with your hands! You simply take the refrigerated biscuit, smash it with your hands and shove them into a muffin tin. Then you fill each biscuit “cup” with your favorite toppings! I have made breakfast biscuit cups and sloppy joe biscuit cups and my family always appreciates it when they can eat dinner with their hands 🙂

Chicken Veggies Biscuit Cups

Chicken and Vegetable Biscuit Cups Simple Substitutions

  • Use whatever veggies you have on hand! Feel free to get creative.
  • Don’t have cream of chicken soup? Use cream of mushroom or even cream of celery! I try to use the Healthy Request options when possible.
Chicken and Veggie Biscuit Cups

Ok, are you ready to get cooking? My Chicken and Vegetable Biscuit Cups are ready in under 30 minutes, so they are perfect for an easy weeknight meal!

Chicken Veggies Biscuit Cups
Print Recipe

Chicken and Vegetable Biscuit Cups

These easy Chicken and Vegetable Biscuit Cups are ready in under 30 minutes, making them a delicious weeknight meal idea.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time12 minutes
Course: Dinner, Lunch/Dinner
Cuisine: American
Keyword: biscuits, chicken, dinner
Servings: 10
Calories: 159kcal
Author: Tracy

Equipment

  • Muffin Tin

Ingredients

  • 12 stalks asparagus diced
  • 1 tomato diced
  • 1 onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 9 oz chicken breast boneless, skinless. Cooked and cut into bite size pieces. I used the pre-cooked from the refrigerated section.
  • 10 refrigerated biscuits
  • 10.5 oz cream of chicken soup 1 can
  • ½ cup milk – I used 2% I used Florida Milk
  • 1 tsp your favorite all purpose seasoning I used DUST by VooDoo Chef
  • salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350°
  • Spray muffin tin with cooking spray and set aside.
  • In a medium skillet, saute the onions until translucent.
  • Add in the garlic and asparagus, cook for 1-2 minutes.
  • Add the chicken, stir well.
  • Pour in the cream of chicken soup, milk and seasonings. Stir well.
  • Add the tomatoes.
  • Remove pan from the heat.
  • Open the can of biscuits and one by one flatten each biscuit and firmly press each one into the muffin/cupcake pan.
  • Using a spoon, scoop the chicken and vegetable mixture into each biscuit cup. Approximately 2 tablespoons will fit in each "cup".
  • Bake for 12-15 minutes until the biscuit is golden brown.
  • Enjoy!

Notes

Use any leftover chicken and vegetable mixture on pasta…it’s delish!

Nutrition

Calories: 159kcal | Carbohydrates: 18g | Protein: 9g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 0.01g | Cholesterol: 19mg | Sodium: 406mg | Potassium: 362mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 263IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 37mg | Iron: 1mg

I hope you enjoy these Chicken and Vegetable Biscuit Cups as much as we do!

Be sure to check out HealthyFamilyProject.com for more than 600 registered dietitian-approved and family-tested recipes, meal planning tools, grocery store specific campaign details, and healthy tips from real parents and on Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest for even more!

Be sure to look out for those sponsors I mentioned above, YOU can be a part of the reason why 825,000 meals were donated! Do good, feel good, eat good 🙂

And don’t forget to check out all the delicious recipes on Food Wine Sunshine and follow on me Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram.

Easy Asian Glazed Salmon

This post may contain affiliate links, please read our disclosure policy.

Thank you Karo® Syrup for sponsoring this post. Celebrate sweet moments together with Karo®! This easy salmon recipe is ready in 20 minutes and only has a few ingredients. The whole family will love it!

Asian Glazed Salmon Recipe

Easy Asian Glazed Salmon

I am pretty excited about this salmon recipe you all….If you have been following me for awhile, you know I love salmon. My husband loves salmon. My daughter loves salmon. My son, not so much…but I’ll get him one day 😉

I almost always serve salmon blackened or make a glaze, and while I always love it, I was pretty excited when Karo Syrup challenged me to come up with a new salmon glaze recipe. You may think of sweet treats like fudges, caramels or pies when you think of using Karo Syrup, but it’s actually a very versatile ingredient that is perfect in my salmon glaze. Karo Syrup is smooth and has a balanced sweetness that really let the other flavors of my glaze shine through. In fact, I mixed the Karo Syrup with red pepper flakes, I love adding a touch of heat to most of my recipes and the Karo Syrup was the perfect balance. Karo makes recipes OH SO Delicious.

Healthy Asian Glazed Salmon

Speaking of recipes, let me tell you why I love this Asian Glazed Salmon

  • It’s ready in under 20 minutes.
  • You can serve it with rice or on a salad, it’s really delicious either way!
  • It’s under 10 ingredients, all of which I actually had in my house besides the fresh salmon.
  • Salmon is actually very good for you, making this easy salmon recipe a healthy dinner.

Best Asian Glazed Salmon

Asian Glazed Salmon Key Ingredients

  • Salmon – Yep, you guessed it 😉 I used fresh Atlantic salmon, I recommend using skin-on fillets.
  • Karo Syrup
  • Soy Sauce
  • Rice Vinegar
  • Garlic
  • Ginger
  • Red Pepper Flakes

Tasty Asian Glazed Salmon

Asian Glazed Salmon Simple Substitutions

If you don’t have fresh garlic and ginger you can use powdered or the jarred minced garlic, you may just have to adjustment the amount as sometimes those don’t offer the same flavor potency.

Salmon is not only a delicious fish, but it is also packed with nutrients that can have impressive health benefits.

Easy Asian Glazed Salmon

Health Benefits of Salmon

  • Salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids have been shown to reduce inflammation throughout the body, lower blood pressure, and potentially help decrease the risk of heart disease and stroke.
  • Salmon is also a good source of protein and provides a variety of other important nutrients like vitamin D and selenium.
  • Eating salmon can help improve brain function and cognitive performance. The omega-3 fatty acids in salmon are especially beneficial for brain health, they can even improve your mood.
  • The protein and vitamin D content of salmon also make it an excellent choice for bone health.
Asian Glazed Salmon

Alright, are we ready to get cooking? I don’t know about you, but I am officially hungry!

Asian Glazed Salmon
Print Recipe

Easy Asian Glazed Salmon

Ready in under 20 minutes, this easy salmon recipe is sure to impress. Flavorful and perfect for a weeknight meal, enjoy this Asian Glazed Salmon recipe tonight.
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Course: Dinner, Easy Weeknight Meal or Lunch
Cuisine: Asian
Keyword: dinner, easy recipe, easy recipes, salmon, seafood
Servings: 3 people
Calories: 274kcal
Author: Tracy

Ingredients

  • 1 lb skin-on salmon fillet cut into 3–4 portions
  • 1 tbsp Karo Syrup
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 2 cloves garlic minced. approx 2 teaspoons
  • 2 tsp fresh ginger grated
  • 2 tsp extra-virgin olive oil
  • Chopped green onions for serving if desired
  • Toasted sesame seeds for serving if desired
  • Prepared rice for serving if desired

Instructions

  • In a small bowl, mix the Karo Syrup and red pepper flakes.
  • In a small saucepan, add the soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger.
  • Bring the soy sauce mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
  • Remove from heat and stir in the Karo Syrup and red pepper flakes mixture.
  • Set aside.
  • Warm a large skillet over medium-to-high heat. You want the pan HOT.
  • Drizzle the 1 – 2 teaspoons of olive oil into the pan, be careful of splatter!
  • Place the salmon skin-side up on the hot skillet.
  • Let cook for about 3 minutes.
  • When the salmon turns opaque on the sides flip the salmon so that it is skin-side down. *I have a stainless steel pan which holds it heat, at this point I was able to reduce the heat to low and the salmon continued to cook.
  • Cook until the salmon is cooked throughout. It will be pink instead of the deep red color and will easy break apart with a fork. Learn more here.
  • Brush or spoon the Asian glaze over the top of the salmon. Save a little for serving if desired.
  • Serve with fresh veggies or a salad and rice if desired. Top with green onion and toasted sesame seeds if desired.
  • Enjoy!

Notes

I served mine with rose wine, it was the perfect pairing for the fresh ginger and the heat of the red pepper flakes.

Nutrition

Calories: 274kcal | Carbohydrates: 8g | Protein: 32g | Fat: 12g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Cholesterol: 83mg | Sodium: 650mg | Potassium: 814mg | Fiber: 0.2g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 110IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 29mg | Iron: 2mg

I hope you enjoy this Asian Glazed Salmon as much as we do!

How to Make Asian Glazed Salmon

What is one of your favorite ways to cook salmon?

Check out all the recipes on Food Wine Sunshine and follow on me Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram for more FOOD WINE AND SUNSHINE.

An Introduction To The French Wine Regions

This post may contain affiliate links, please read our disclosure policy.

There are 17 wine-making regions in France. Each one producing exquisite wines. Here is an introduction to the French Wine Regions. Read on to learn more!

Introduction to Wine Regions In France

An Introduction To The French Wine Regions

I still dream about our trip to France. The wine. The country-side. The people. The history. Everything was just incredible. I am really hoping that one day we can go back. Until then, I will share my love of French wine with you all! I shared with you the Best Wine Regions in France, now I will share a bit more about the French Wine Regions. So, go grab a glass of wine and let’s dream of France together!

Like dividing the United States into states, France can be divided into wine regions. Because wine is such a big part of the culture, native French people may even give directions through their country by these regions, instead of by cities. Each region has it’s a different environment that gives the wine its own unique taste. Knowing these regions is a great conversation topic over a nice dinner with friends, or even more appropriately, at a wine tasting. This is an overview of each region to get you started.

There are 17 wine regions in France. The most famous of which is the Bordeaux region. Known for its rich, red wines, the Bordeaux region is located in southwestern France, near the Atlantic Ocean. There are twenty-one different types of wines produced in this region, the most popular being Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot. Merlot, a sweet red wine, is so popular that fifty percent of the grapes planted in the Bordeaux region are for this wine. Each year, this region produces over 850 million bottles of wine.

Intro to French Wine Regions

Moving just south of Bordeaux, next to the Pyrenees Mountains, in the South West region, these wines are often confused with Bordeaux wines because they are so close, but the soil in this region provides a different taste to the grapes. In fact, there are over 15 wines produced in the South West that can’t be made anywhere else in the world, including Tannic and Merille. The most popular wines here, however, are red wines. Producing over 200 million bottles a year, vineyards in this region focus on Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc.

On the other side of the Pyrenees Mountains, bordered by the Mediterranean Sea and Spain, is the Languedoc-Roussillon region. Another popular region for red wines, this area produces Carignan, Grenache, Mourvedre, Cinsault, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon, but it also produces a variety of sweet white wines. The most popular grape in the region is the white wine grape, Chardonnay. This area is very warm and has a lot of coastal property. Because of this, the soil is made mostly of limestone, sandstone, pebbles, and granite. The soil gives the South West region its own flavor, which is obviously loved, as the region produces over two billion bottles of wine each year.

Best French Wine Regions

To the east of the Languedoc-Roussillon region is the region of Provence. This area is known for its fruity rose wine, producing almost half of the French’s rose wine inventory. It also produces white wines, as well as full-body red wines. The vineyards in this region go back to ancient times. Even Caesar wrote about them in his memoirs. They produce about 240 thousand bottles of wine each year, and 75% of that wine is rose wine.

The fifth wine region in France is Cotes du Rhone. It is the most diverse wine region in the country, producing a variety of both red and white wines. The northern area of the region is known for its full-body red and white wines, while the south has gained popularity for its light, fruity red wines. Cotes du Rhone produces almost half a billion bottles of wine each year, which is about 15% of the total French wine production.

Learn about French Wine Regions

North of Cotes du Rhone is the region of Burgundy. Burgundy is divided into six separate districts within its region, which stretches 225 miles across France. This region produces both red and white wines and is famous for making the two most popular wines in France: Beaujolais and Chablis. Pinot Noir is the common red grape in the area, while Chardonnay is the predominant white grape. Total, the region produces 180 million bottles of wine each year.

A region popular for its white wines is the Loire wine region. Sauvignon Blanc and Chenin Blanc are the most popular grapes, and although some red wines are made, 75% of the area’s wine production is white. White wines in this region include everything from dry to sweet to sparkling. The region is based around the Loire River and is known in France as one of the most beautiful areas. Each year, the Loire region produces over 400 million bottles of wine.

What are the wine regoins in France?

The region of Champagne is famous for producing the most popular sparkling wine in the world. Can you guess what it is? Champagne! This region is located east of Paris and is the northernmost wine-making region in France. The soil in this area is chalky, which allows the grapes to grow and have the special flavor it holds. Champagne was created by a monk named Dom Perignon during the 17th century and now has a popular champagne named after him. He even invented the cork to allow the champagne to stay preserved.

Alsace is in eastern France and produces both dry and sweet white wines. Some of the grapes grown in Alsace are so unique that this is the only place in the world they are able to grow. Riesling is the most popular wine made here, followed by Pinot Blanc, Gewurztraminer, Tokay Pinot Gris, and Sylvaner. Although the area is relatively small, 165 million bottles of wine are made in the Alsace region each year.

How many wine regions in France

The Corsica region is located on the small island of Corsica off the coast of France. The island grapes produce rose wine, as well as dry white wines, and mainly come from vineyards on the coast of the island. Patrimonio is the most well-known wine from this region. The grapes for this wine grow in clay and limestone soil on the island, and almost two million bottles of this wine are grown each year.

There is so much to know about the French wine regions and the varieties they produce. Websites and books are devoted to the subject and are a great read for any wine aficionado! I have given you just a sip of the French wine regions and everything they pour 😉

Cheers!

French Wine Regions

Have you been to France? What is one of your favorite French wines?

An Introduction To The French Wine Regions

Make sure to visit Food Wine Sunshine for more travel and wine tips and stay up to date with me Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram.

7 Of The Best Cocktail & Food Pairings for Your Next Gathering

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Cocktails and food…two of my favorite things! Find your next favorite cocktail and food pairing by checking out these 7 of the best cocktail and food pairings brought to you by Cora Gold of the magazine, Revivalist.

Best Cocktail and Food Pairings for Your Next Gathering

7 Of The Best Cocktail and Food Pairings for Your Next Gathering

Family gatherings can be a special occasion to spend time with loved ones, reminisce about old times and look ahead to the future. One of the best parts of a great get-together is the food. If you have good cooks in your family, this party is an excellent opportunity to pair any meal with some delicious drinks. Try these seven cocktail and dinner pairings at your next family gathering.

Serving the Right Combination of Food and Drink

Family gatherings are a fun time to share dishes with your family and an opportunity to display your knowledge of complementary foods and drinks. If you find the right combinations, your whole family can enjoy your cocktail and dinner pairings at your next big get-together.

1. Steak and Whiskey Sour

Steak and whiskey is a favorite of whiskey lovers everywhere because the flavors complement each other well. Steak is a fatty, flavorful piece of red meat, so try a whiskey sour if you want contrasting flavors that still pair together.

A whiskey sour tastes light and bright with lemon juice and egg whites. These ingredients come together for a rich enough taste to match the steak. If you want a drink with a more intense flavor, try rye whiskey and your favorite steak cut.

Best Cocktail and Food Pairings

2. Fajitas and Margaritas

Imagine you’ve ordered fajitas in a Mexican restaurant. The sizzling skillet comes to you with hot tortillas stuffed with meat, peppers, cheese and more. What could go better with your meal than a tall margarita?

For fajitas, you can incorporate a variety of proteins, such as chicken or skirt steak. This dish can be spicy if you use jalapeños, cayenne seasoning or other forms of heat. Using lime juice and a sweet liqueur in your margarita will counteract the spiciness and create beautiful flavors.

3. Shrimp Masala and Moscow Mule

Contrary to its name, the Moscow Mule originates in New York City, not Russia. Nonetheless, it’s a flavorful cocktail for which you only need three ingredients — vodka, ginger beer and lime juice. For a good food pairing, try a light dish to accompany the flavors.

One dish you can try is shrimp masala. This Indian dish bursts with flavor and is light enough not to overpower the drink. One of the key ingredients in a Moscow Mule and this dish is ginger. The spice has a sweet flavor and particular aroma that goes well in many recipes.

4. Sashimi and Kyoto Sour

If you want a Japan-inspired flavor, try sashimi if you’re a fan of raw seafood. This dish has been a part of Japanese culture for centuries and will be a delicious delicacy for anyone at your party.

Sashimi pairs well with sake, a liquor made from fermented rice. Fish with a sweeter taste — such as salmon — go well with fruity-flavored sake. Try a Kyoto sour, which brings bright flavors from lemon juice, grapefruit and agave nectar.

Cocktails and Food Pairings

5. Lobster and Bloody Mary

Usually, you pair a cocktail with a dish separate from the glass. What if you combined the two and had part of the food inside the drink? With a lobster Bloody Mary, you can achieve this tasty combination.

This Bloody Mary has typical ingredients like tomato juice, vodka, celery salt, hot sauce and the works. Put two tablespoons of liquid from the cooked lobster meat into the drink to get the East Coast flare. Then, garnish the glass with a lobster claw to wow your family. This drink will taste like the shores of Maine’s Atlantic coast. Of course, if you don’t want to combine the two, they will still make a delicious pairing.

6. Ribs and Rye Manhattan

If you want to grill, what will make mouths water more than a delectable rack of ribs? Cook the ribs low and slow in a smoker or your preferred method, then pair it with a high-rye bourbon because of its robust flavors. As the name suggests, this bourbon contains a higher rye amount, creating a drier and spicier kick. Try making a Manhattan out of your bottle of high-rye.

The potent drink calls for an equal amount of flavor from the food to balance it. Use a dry rub incorporating a blend of spices like cayenne, garlic, black pepper and brown sugar. The sweet and savory taste of the ribs will give you similar flavor elements as the cocktail.

How to pair cocktails with food

7. Ceviche and Mojitos

On a hot summer day, your family will want something cool and refreshing in what they eat and drink — an excellent time to serve ceviche with mojitos. Ceviche is a South American dish using raw fish or shrimp that marinates in lemon and lime juices. You can pair the seafood with onions, tomatoes, cucumbers, cilantro and avocado for a refreshing meal that almost tastes like a salad.

The acidity of the ceviche will pair well with a mojito. This Cuban drink — typically made from white rum — is sweet and complements the savory flavors of the ceviche. Mojitos typically contain rum, syrup, mint and lime juice, making them an ideal cocktail for a summer gathering.

Cocktails Food Pairings

Author bio: Cora Gold is the Editor-in-Chief of women’s lifestyle magazine, Revivalist. She loves writing about food, party planning and family fun. Follow Cora on Twitter and LinkedIn. 

What is one of your favorite cocktail and food pairings?

Blackberry Beauty Smoothie For Beautiful Skin

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Foods can contain many healthy and beauty benefits, try this Blackberry Beauty Smoothie and see how it can hep your skin to look beautiful and radiant! While this post is sponsored by Florida Dairy Farmers, all opinions and the recipe are my own.

Best Blackberry Beauty Smoothie

How To Make A Blackberry Beauty Smoothie For Beautiful Skin

Hello new smoothie recipe! I think I have about 52 smoothie recipes here on the site, so it’s no secret that I love smoothies. Smoothies are incredibly easy to make and so versatile. But, my favorite thing about smoothies is that they are a great way to get a healthy dose of nutrition in one meal.

While it’s no secret that I love smoothies, it’s also no secret that I’m not getting any younger. I will openly admit that I spend money on fancy creams and lotions that will help me keep those pesky fine lines and wrinkles away. I workout regularly in hopes to keep in shape and help keep my skin firm. And I add ingredients to my smoothies that will help me with all of the above!

Tasty Blackberry Beautiful Skin Smoothie

Did you now that the best way to get nutrients into your body is by the food and drinks you consume? It’s not by fancy vitamins.

So, let’s explore the ingredients in my new smoothie recipe, shall we? As a reminder, I found this information on the internet, I am not a doctor or a dermatologist, if you have specific questions about your skin or your health, always consult your physician. I can only share my findings and my experiences.

Healthy Blackberry Beautiful Skin Smoothie

Health Benefits Of Blackberries

Blackberries not only make your smoothie that beautiful rich purple color, but they contain high levels of antioxidants and collagen. Both of those can help your skin! Those antioxidants can help affect the aging process, smooth your skin, and give you that natural glow we all love.

Blackberries are loaded with vitamin C, which also may help improve skin tone, texture, and your complexion.

Blackberries are also a great source of vitamin A, which has been said to help with those fine lines, wrinkles, age spots and all those other fun things that start showing up as we get a little older 😉 Consuming vitamin A is essential for healthy skin….so add those blackberries to your smoothie!

Vitamin K, yep…blackberries have that too! Vitamin K has been said to help reduce the appearance of scars, sun spots and even stretch marks! I wonder if I can just place blackberries on my pregnancy stretch marks….may be worth a try 😉

Blackberry Beautiful Skin Smoothie

Health Benefits Of Milk

I mentioned these in my other skincare smoothie recipe, but as a refresher…Milk contains retinol. You know that expensive lotion I admitted to buying, retinol is in that too! Retinol is said help to promote skin health and have anti-aging properties. Milk also contains antioxidants, which can help keep our skin healthy and glowing. Milk promotes bone growth but vitamin D is also said to having anti-aging benefits, and milk is an excellent source of vitamin D…probably the best!

Milk has anti-inflammatory properties that is said to help our skin to fight the damages caused by UV rays, and since I live in Florida, this one is very important to me.

Easy Blackberry Beauty Smoothie

Health Benefits of Kale

Kale was in my other beauty smoothie as well, and that’s because it’s loaded with vitamins and nutrients that help to make our skin look healthier. Kale is rich in vitamins C, vitamin E and vitamin K. Kale also has anti-inflammatory benefits.

Health Benefits of Brazil Nuts

So, Brazil nuts are a new addition to my daily routine. My sister-in-law told me about them and all the benefits they have a few months ago and my husband and I have been including them in our day ever since. They are small, but they are packed full of lots of good stuff! Brazil nuts are very nutritious and one of the most concentrated dietary sources of selenium.

Brazil nuts are also a good source of healthy fats, vitamin E, and antioxidants.

Tasty Blackberry Beauty Smoothie

Health Benefits of Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is one of those things that can be used for so many things! From hair masks, beauty treatments, to oral care, to cooking! Coconut oil is a good source of antioxidants, which can help to protect your cells from damage. Adding coconut oil to your smoothie may also help you feel fuller longer…score! Check out some more health benefits of coconut oil.

Health Benefits of Carrots

Hello vitamin C! Yes, another fabulous ingredients in our beauty smoothie has vitamin C. And, of course, carrots are an excellent source of beta carotene, and beta carotene can brighten your skin and make it glow. The beta carotene in carrots is converted into vitamin A when you eat carrots, and that helps promotes healthy skin. So, adding carrots to your smoothie will help your skin from the inside out. Plus, they are kinda sweet, so adding them to your smoothie is not only a healthy option, but a delicious one.

While this smoothie is packed with skin-loving ingredients, it’s also crucial to remember the importance of hydration for skin health. Make sure to drink an adequate amount of water throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated and supple.

Incorporating these ingredients into your diet regularly can yield the best results for your skin. Consider making this smoothie a part of your weekly routine to experience long-term benefits.

Healthy Blackberry Beauty Smoothie

Ok, that covers it! That’s all the ingredients in my Blackberry Beauty Smoothie! Sounds good doesn’t it? So let’s make it!

By incorporating this Blackberry Beauty Smoothie into your lifestyle along with a holistic approach to skincare, you can nurture your skin from the inside out and enjoy a radiant, healthy complexion.

Blackberry Beauty Smoothie
Print Recipe

Blackberry Beauty Smoothie

Help get beautiful skin from the inside out by making this Blackberry Beauty Smoothie. Ready in 5 minutes and loaded with vitamins and nutrients!
Prep Time5 minutes
Course: Beauty, Breakfast, Breakfast or Snack, Breakfast/Snack
Keyword: protein shake, protein smoothie, smoothie, smoothies
Servings: 2
Calories: 185kcal
Author: Tracy

Ingredients

  • 1 cup Florida Milk I used 2%
  • 1 cup Kale
  • 1 cup blackberries
  • 2 Brazil Nuts
  • 1/2 tbsp coconut oil
  • 1/2 cup carrots approx 8 baby carrots
  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon if desired
  • ice if desired

Instructions

  • Place all ingredients into your favorite blending device and blend until smooth.
  • Enjoy!

Notes

*Note you may need to increase blending time due to the kale and nuts.

Nutrition

Calories: 185kcal | Carbohydrates: 18g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 15mg | Sodium: 87mg | Potassium: 540mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 11g | Vitamin A: 9044IU | Vitamin C: 48mg | Calcium: 272mg | Iron: 1mg
Blackberry Beauty Smoothie

I hope you all enjoy this Blackberry Beauty Smoothie as much as I do!

How To Make a Blackberry Beauty Smoothie

What is one of your favorite smoothie combinations?

Be sure to check out Florida Milk for more dairy-licious recipes and follow on Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest.

And while you are at it, check out all the recipes on Food Wine Sunshine and follow on me Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram for more FOOD WINE AND SUNSHINE.

Witches Brew Cocktail

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Celebrate Halloween with your favorite witches this year with a wickedly delicious Witches Brew Cocktail! Ready in just minutes, this spooky vodka cocktail is perfect for Halloween parties, girls’ night, or a festive evening at home. With its deep purple color, playful sprinkles, and easy preparation, it’s sure to impress your guests or just give you a little Halloween cheer for yourself.

Witches Brew Cocktail

Celebrate Halloween with all your favorite witches! Make this wickedly delicious Halloween cocktail, my Witches Brew Cocktail. Ready in just minutes, say Cheers this Halloween with this vodka cocktail.

How To Make The Best Witches Brew Cocktail

Halloween is coming and no matter how you celebrate, it’s always fun to make a celebratory cocktail! Each year we have our friends come over, we eat and chat while the kids go out trick-or-treating…..Well, actually this year they have decided that they may be too old for trick-or-treating so they may find a haunted house or two to check out. But, that still gives us the excuse to hang out with our friends.  Everyone usually brings a dish to share and we play game and enjoy our adult beverages.

Best Witches Brew Cocktail

Now, you all know that I love a good glass of wine, but I decided that this year, a special Halloween cocktail was needed for me and my witches….errrrr….I mean friends 😉

Easy Witches Brew Cocktail

To get that deep, spooky color, I used blueberry juice, but cranberry juice works too if you can’t find it, just note the flavor will be slightly different. I also used light apple juice to keep the cocktail from being too sweet, but regular apple juice works fine if you prefer a sweeter drink. It will still look cool…promise!

Witches Brew Vodka Cocktail

I also used light apple juice, you can use regular apple juice if you prefer, but I don’t like my cocktails super sweet, so using the light variety cut that sweetness a tad.

Witches Brew Halloween Cocktail

To get your favorite sprinkles to stick to the rim, I made a sugar/water mixture, you could make a flavored simple syrup if you wanted to get super fancy, but I didn’t feel like it would give that much flavor to it, so I kept it simple. I actually used confectioners’ sugar, you simply mix a little confectioners’ sugar and water are together to coat the glass’s rim. I do this in a shallow bowl and then dip the glass in upside down to coat the rim. Have sprinkles ready to go in another shallow bowl or plate and dip the glass in… the sprinkles will stick!

You can also do a simple sugar rim…Use colored sugar if you have it for that extra Halloween-effect!

Witches Brew Cocktail made with vodka

Witches Brew Vodka Cocktail Key Ingredients

Blueberry Juice
Apple Juice
Vodka

I used vodka in the Halloween cocktail because I honestly think that vodka is one of the easiest mixers, but if you are not a vodka fan, feel free to use your favorite liquor. You can also make this drink a mocktail by leaving out the alcohol.

How to make a Witches Brew Cocktail

This Witches Brew Cocktail is the perfect way to celebrate Halloween with friends or family. Whether you’re hosting a party, watching spooky movies, or just enjoying a quiet Halloween night at home, it’s fun, easy, and delicious.

Wickedly easy, right? I know it! Ok, so let’s make a few cocktails shall we? My Witches Brow Cocktail recipe makes 4 cocktails, so it’s perfect for parties! If you want to double the recipe, just change the quantity of the recipe, it will adjust everything for you!

For more fall cocktail ideas, check out my Apple Cider Mules or Boozy Pumpkin Milkshake recipes! And don’t forget to share your creations on social media—tag me so I can see your spooky cocktails!

Witches Brew Cocktail
Print Recipe

Witches Brew Cocktail

Celebrate Halloween with your favorite witches this year by serving this wickely good Witches Brew Halloween Cocktail.
Prep Time10 minutes
Course: Cocktail, Drinks
Keyword: cocktails, drinks, halloween, holiday cocktails, vodka
Servings: 4
Calories: 186kcal
Author: Tracy

Ingredients

  • 2 cups blueberry juice chilled
  • 1 cup light apple juice chilled. I use the light variety to cut down of the sweetness of the cocktail.
  • 3/4 cup vodka chilled

Rim Decoration

  • 4 tbsp confections sugar
  • 1 tbsp water
  • Sprinkles use Halloween-themed ones!

Instructions

  • Mix the blueberry juice and the apple juice. It will be the base of your Halloween cocktail, and you will get the bloody color you are looking for.
  • Add the chilled vodka and stir well.
  • Now you are going to decorate the glasses. Take two dishes bigger in diameter than the rim of the glasses you are using for the cocktails.
  • Add sprinkles to one dish.
  • Mix the confectioners sugar and water in the other dish.
  • Place the glass over the dish with sugar water mixture and rotate it until the sugar mixture completely covers the rim. Repeat the action immediately in the sprinkles dish, so the sprinkles sticks to the rim.
  • Pour your witchy creations into the prepared glasses and enjoy with friends.
  • Cheers!

Notes

Don’t like vodka?  Feel free to experiment with your favorite liquor! Or leave it out completely for a fun Halloween mocktail.

Nutrition

Calories: 186kcal | Carbohydrates: 26g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 36mg | Potassium: 179mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 18g | Vitamin A: 8IU | Vitamin C: 49mg | Calcium: 6mg | Iron: 1mg

I hope you enjoy this Witches Brew Cocktail as much as we do!

halloween witches brew cocktail

Happy Halloween!

Be sure to check out all the recipes on Food Wine Sunshine and follow on me Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram for more FOOD WINE AND SUNSHINE.

Deliciously Tender Sous Vide Pepper Steak

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Better than take out and prepped in under 30 minutes this Sous Vide Pepper Steak is tender, flavorful and 100% delicious. Grab the easy dinner recipe and enjoy!

Sous Vide Pepper Steak

Deliciously Tender Sous Vide Pepper Steak

Michael sent me that Guest Post awhile ago about Sous Vide cooking….and would you believe that I had one in my garage that I never opened. Truth be told, new kitchen appliances intimidate me. I mean, when oven, Blackstone and smoker work fine…why try to learn something new?! Well, sometimes amazing things…aka food…come from learning new things. Like sous vide cooking. And this Sous Vide Pepper Steak.

You will need the wok to fry up the rice and saute the veggies.

Best Sous Vide Pepper Steak

But the steak…..oh, that will melt in your mouth. It’s incredible.

Easy Sous Vide Pepper Steak

I know the recipe looks like it has a few more steps than I usually do, but I promise you it’s not hard! The sous vide cooker does all the hard work…making the steak AH-MAZING.

Tasty Sous Vide Pepper Steak

What Is Sous Vide?

Sous Vide is a method of cooking that involves vacuum-sealing the food and immersing it in warm water.

This technique guarantees perfectly tender, flavorful steak every time, with minimal effort. Whether you’re a seasoned sous vide pro or trying it for the first time, this recipe delivers mouth-watering results. Plus, it’s a healthier alternative to takeout and an impressive meal to share with family and friends.

How to make Sous Vide Pepper Steak

Why use sous vide style cooking?

It allows you to cook food (steak, chicken, fish…you may it!) at a consistent temperature, which means your food is perfectly tender and cooked thoroughly.

How to make the best Sous Vide Pepper Steak

Is sous vide different from boiling?

YES! Boiling often removes flavor and nutrients from food. When you use the sous vide style cooking method the food is cooked in an airtight environment (typically a vacuum-sealed bag or ziplock bag), you need less seasonings to get the flavor you desire and food retains a higher vitamin and mineral content.

Pepper Steak Sous Vide

So, why do you need the wok in this sous vide pepper steak? Well, you will saute the vegetables (peppers!) and you want to fry the rice a little.

Best Pepper Steak Sous Vide

Can you use a different than New York Strip to make Pepper Steak?

Sure! But it may affect your sous vide cooking times and temperatures, so just be sure to adjust that as needed.

Easy Pepper Steak Sous Vide

Sous Vide Pepper Steak Key Ingredients

  • Steak
  • Peppers
  • That’s it! Na, just kidding, but you obviously need peppers and steak in to make pepper steak 😉
  • Additional veggies – onions, mushrooms
  • Seasonings and spices
  • Beef broth
  • Soy sauce
  • Sesame oil
  • Rice
Tasty Pepper Steak Sous Vide

Are we ready to get cooking? I know I’m hungry 😉 Be sure to Print and Pin the recipe so you have it for later.

Sous Vide Pepper Steak
Print Recipe

Pepper Steak Sous Vide Wok

Skip takeout and make this popular dish at home. Trust me, it tastes a million times better! Prep is under 15 minutes and the steak is cooked via sous vide so it's extra flavorful and tender.
Prep Time30 minutes
Cook Time6 hours 10 minutes
Total Time6 hours 40 minutes
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Asian, Chinese
Keyword: sous vide, steak
Servings: 5
Calories: 666kcal
Author: Tracy

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 4 New York Strip Steaks
  • 16 oz Button Mushrooms
  • 3 large Bell Peppers
  • 1 bunch Green Onions
  • 2 medium Yellow Onions
  • 2 Garlic Cloves
  • 3 tbsp Olive Oil 2 tbsp for wok and 1 tbsp for rice
  • ¼ tsp Five-Spice Powder
  • 1 ¼ cup Beef Broth ¼ for wok recipe and 1 cup for rice
  • 1 tbsp Soy Sauce
  • 1 tsp Cornstarch
  • 1 tsp Sesame Oil
  • 2 in chunk fresh Ginger ½ tsp ground ginger can be used
  • 1 tbsp Spice Rub for steak Korean BBQ, Chili Lime, Salt/Pepper for example
  • 1 cup rice Jasmine Rice is great!
  • 1 tbsp butter

Instructions

Sous Vide Instructions

  • Rub steaks with spices of choice and place in seal-able bags. Squeeze out as much air as possible from the bags and seal.
    Pepper Steak Sous Vide Wok Process
  • Fill Sous Vide Tub with water per instructions.
  • Immerse steaks in the tub. I highly recommend buying the tub that comes with a rack. If you don’t have the rack, just pin the top of the bag between the tub and the cover.
  • Place Sous Vide Machine in tub, plug in, and turn on.
    Pepper Steak Sous Vide Wok Process
  • Download the Anova App to your phone. The App has a lot of recipes to try and you can just select the one you like and click to start the Anova. For this recipe, I set the temp and time manually by just clicking “Set Temp” and type in 130. I set the “Edit Timer” to 6 hours. Click “Start Anova”. Your phone does not need to stay near the machine and you can actually leave the house and run errands and it will still cook once it’s set.
    Pepper Steak Sous Vide Wok Process

Wok Prep Instructions

  • Prep ingredients while the steaks cook and set aside in covered bowls.
    Pepper Steak Sous Vide Wok Process
  • Wash and slice mushrooms.
  • Peel and cut onions in half, slice onions into thin strips
  • Slice Peppers into long strips.
  • Zest the ginger if you are using fresh.
    Pepper Steak Sous Vide Wok Process

Sous Vide Complete

  • The Sous Vide will beep when the meat is finished. Just press the button to turn it off. Pull the meat out and thinly slice, removing any fat.

Rice Instructions

  • In a medium size saucepan, on medium high heat, heat 1 tbsp olive oil and 1 tbsp butter.
    Pepper Steak Sous Vide Wok Process
  • Rinse 1 cup rice and add to saucepan. Heat rice, stirring occasionally, until most rice grains become a light golden brown.
    Pepper Steak Sous Vide Wok Process
  • Pour in 1 cup beef broth and let it bubble and sizzle. Stir. Add in 1 cup water. Reduce heat to low and cover for 10 minutes. Check rice to see if all the liquid has been absorbed and rice is tender. Turn off heat and set aside.
    Pepper Steak Sous Vide Wok Process

Putting it all together

  • Turn wok to saute setting per instructions. Add 2 tbsp olive oil and sliced mushrooms. Saute mushrooms, stirring occasionally, until they turn golden brown.
    Pepper Steak Sous Vide Wok Process
  • Add onions, minced garlic, five-spice powder, and ginger. Stir together and saute 2 minutes.
    Pepper Steak Sous Vide Wok Process
  • Add pepper strips. Stir together and saute 1 minute.
  • Add beef slices and any juice from the bag. Stir together and saute 2 minutes.
    Pepper Steak Sous Vide Wok Process
  • In a small dish, whisk ¼ cup beef broth, 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp cornstarch, and 1 tsp sesame oil and add to wok. Stir together and turn off wok.
    Pepper Steak Sous Vide Wok Process
  • Serve with rice.
    Pepper Steak Sous Vide Wok Process
  • Enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 666kcal | Carbohydrates: 43g | Protein: 44g | Fat: 36g | Saturated Fat: 13g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 19g | Cholesterol: 111mg | Sodium: 534mg | Potassium: 1106mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 7g | Vitamin A: 2314IU | Vitamin C: 98mg | Calcium: 62mg | Iron: 5mg
How to make Pepper Steak Sous Vide

I hope you enjoy this Sous Vide Pepper Steak recipe as much as we do!

Sous Vide Pepper Steak Recipe

Have you ever cooked anything sous vide? What’s your favorite?

Be sure to check out all my recipes on Food Wine Sunshine and follow along on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram.

20 Delicious & Easy Ways to Use Rotisserie Chicken

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Rotisserie chicken is a lifesaver for busy weeknights! Discover 20 easy and delicious ways to use rotisserie chicken for dinners, lunches, snacks, and meal prep. While this post is sponsored by Healthy Family Project, my love of making meal time easier is my own.

Easy Ways to Use Rotisserie Chicken

20 Delicious & Easy Ways to Use Rotisserie Chicken

Th kids have been back to school for a few weeks now. My son gets out at 11:00 because he has OJT (on-the-job training) and my daughter made the Cross Country team and practices everyday so she gets home everyday around 5:00 PM. I thought schedules would be easier as the kids got older, but I was wrong. While my son has a car and takes care of most of his stuff on his own, I swear the amount of things we all have to cram into a day has greatly increased.

And while I absolutely love to meal plan as it makes dinner time a heck of a lot easier, some weeks I just don’t have the leftover brain power to think about what to make for one night left alone 5.

That’s why rotisserie chickens are on my shopping list just about weekly.  There are so many meals you can make with them, plus you can eat them just as they are for an easy dinner too. I was watching the Healthy Family Project Back To School Facebook Live and Amanda and Charli were chatting about double duty meals. Like how you can make a big batch of ground beef on Sunday and you can use that to make empanadas, tacos, and taquitos for meals through the week. Which got me to thinking about all the ways I use a rotisserie chicken for easy meals. Seriously, picking up a rotisserie chicken really saves meal time in my house at least once a week, so I thought I would share some of my favorite ways to use rotisserie chicken in hopes to help ease your back to school craziness too.

Below I’m sharing 20 ideas for using rotisserie chicken that may surprise you. But before we get to that, let’s address some of the common questions people ask about using rotisserie chicken for quick and easy meals.

Easy Recipes that Use Rotisserie Chicken

Best Sides for Rotisserie Chicken

A rotisserie chicken from the grocery store is a delicious and easy way to feed your family. But what sides should you serve with it?

Mashed potatoes are a classic side dish that goes well with just about anything. They’re especially good with rotisserie chicken! If you’re looking for something a little lighter, a salad is always a good option. For something heartier, try roasted vegetables or rice and beans. Personally, I usually have a combination of mashed potatoes, a salad and some roasted veggies.

How Long is a Rotisserie Chicken Good For?

A rotisserie chicken will be safe to eat for 3-4 days after you buy it, as long as you store it properly. If you pull the meat off the bones, the meat will be good for about a week.

Can you Freeze a Cooked Rotisserie Chicken?

The answer is yes! You can absolutely freeze a cooked rotisserie chicken. In fact, it’s a great way to meal prep for the week ahead. Simply portion out the meat into individual containers and pop them in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw and reheat. I use frozen leftover rotisserie chicken meat in soups all the time!

Be sure to remove any skin or bones before freezing as they won’t reheat well. And don’t forget to label your containers with the date and contents! Tip: If you plan on freezing leftover cooked rotisserie chicken in a plastic container or bag, place a layer of parchment paper or wax paper between the meat and container to prevent freezer burn.

How do You Cook Rotisserie Chicken at Home?

If you have extra time and want to do so, you can cook a rotisserie chicken at home. I’ve cooked a chicken in the crockpot and it was delicious, but honestly – it’s a heck of a lot easier to grab one from the grocery store.

Nutrition Info

  • High-protein, low-fat (especially without skin).
  • Pairs well with vegetables, salads, and whole grains.
Best Ways to Use Rotisserie Chicken

Now let’s get to what you came for, 20 Easy Rotisserie Chicken Meals

  1. The Easiest Chicken Enchiladas – Low fat, prepped in minutes and on the table in less than 30 minutes. We love these…in fact, my daughter makes these for us most of the time! All you have to do is saute some onions, mini sweet peppers and add in the rotisserie chicken. Stuff the tortillas, roll em up, top with sauce and bake. Dinner (or lunch!) is served! Don’t forget the guac! Our favorite is YoQuiero! Spicy.
  2. Chicken Apple Enchiladas – Also super easy, but there a sweet addition of apple in these enchiladas that you just gotta try.
  3. Spicy Mustard Chicken Salad with Grapes – A spin on a classic. Use it to make an incredible sandwich or toss it on top of a salad.
  4. Loaded BBQ Chicken Fries – This one is a favorite of my kiddos. That cheese sauce is incredible, and really, can you ever go wrong with loaded french fries?!
  5. Healthy Honey Mustard Chicken Quesadillas – Another deliciously simple and low fat meal option that doesn’t lack in flavor.
  6. BBQ Chicken Bubble Up Bake – I have made this by cooking up chicken breasts and cutting em up, but it’s easier (and just as delicious) using rotisserie chicken.
  7. Berry Delicious Avocado Chicken Salad – My husband takes a salad to work for lunch everyday, it’s fun adding all sorts of topping, but adding the rotisserie chicken gives the salad a punch of protein so that you’re not hungry 1 hour later.
  8. Easy Asian Chicken Tacos – Because who doesn’t love taco night??
  9. Chicken Pot Pie – A classic made easier with rotisserie chicken.
  10. BBQ Chicken Sandwiches – Simply add your favorite BBQ sauce and a bun. Boom!
  11. Chicken Bacon Alfredo Pizza – I mean….here’s bacon and alfredo sauce on a pizza.
  12. BBQ Chicken Taquitos – Easy, delicious and they also make for a great lunch option.
  13. Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Celery – I love this idea! I loooove all things buffalo chicken and this is a healthy spin that doesn’t require a bunch of chips 🙂
  14. Fiesta BBQ Chicken Quesadilla – Because BBQ chicken tastes amazing in a variety of ways.
  15. Add the leftover rotisserie chicken to your scrambled eggs in the morning for an extra dose of protein.
  16. Buy premade salad kits and toss on rotisserie chicken to make it a hearty meal option.
  17. Add it to your favorite soups. I follow WW and my friend and I make Zero Point soups weekly, adding leftover rotisserie chicken gives us added protein without adding any fat or points.
  18. Make a wrap! Add in your favorite veggies, a sauce and chicken.
  19. Toss it on top of your pizza . I love this sweet and spicy chicken and tangerine pizza.
  20. Prep it and leave it on a plate in the refrigerator for an easy snack option. Come on, I can’t be the only one that is always looking for something healthy to eat at 3 PM.
Ways to Use Rotisserie Chicken

Rotisserie chicken is a healthy protein and when you remove the skin, you do indeed lose some of the flavor. That’s why I add mini sweet peppers and onions to just about every rotisserie chicken meal, they add in that flavor. What’s even better than adding flavor to my meals with onions and mini sweet peppers? Adding in that flavor and supporting companies that are giving back to the community.

Through the Healthy Family Project Back To School campaign, the partners are making a total of $14,000 donation back to the Foundation for Fresh Produce to increase accessibility to fruits and vegetables in schools. How incredible is that?!

Here are the brands to look out for while you are grocery shopping:

Healthy Family Project Back To School Partners

I had some fun in the kitchen with all these amazing sponsors, you gotta check em out:

  • Try this low-fat and 100% delicious Simple Orange Fluff Dessert. Made with Bee Sweet Citrus mandarins.
  • And if you like Jalapeno Poppers like our family does, this is the best (and easiest!) Jalapeno Popper recipe out there. YoQueiero! has a killer new line of cream cheese and avocado dips that make this recipe killer.
  • Fresh Corn Salad. Another completely fat free and 100% delicious dish. Made with fresh corn, RealSweet Vidalia Onions, Pero Family Farms Mini Sweet Peppers and Nature Fresh Farms mini cucumbers.

What is one of your favorite ways to use rotisserie chicken? How are you handling all the meal planning and prep that comes with the back to school season?

Be sure to follow Healthy Family Project on social media such as Instagram, Facebook and Twitter and use the hashtag #poweryourlunchbox to follow all the fun this month…and beyond!

While you are at it, be sure to follow Food Wine Sunshine on Facebook, Pinterest and Instagram for more tips, fabulous recipes and more!

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