When it comes to cooking, there’s nothing quite like having a repertoire of go-to recipes that can be relied upon for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, looking for a quick weeknight meal, or simply seeking inspiration for your next culinary adventure, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll be highlighting 18 mouth-watering dishes from our friends at SplendidTable.org, each one carefully curated to satisfy your cravings and impress your guests.
From comforting classics like Roasted Garlic and Herb Mashed Potatoes to bold international flavors like Spicy Thai Coconut Curry with Vegetables, these recipes showcase the diversity and creativity that defines modern cooking. And with a range of dishes suitable for everything from casual family meals to elegant dinner parties, you’re sure to find something that suits your taste and style.
So without further ado, let’s dive into this culinary smorgasbord and get cooking!
Roasted Garlic and Herb Mashed Potatoes
Elevate your mashed potatoes with the rich flavors of roasted garlic and herbs. This recipe is perfect for a comforting side dish or as a base for creative toppings.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 heads of garlic, separated into individual cloves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss the potato cubes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. Meanwhile, toss the garlic cloves with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper on a separate baking sheet. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and caramelized.
4. Drain the potatoes and add the roasted garlic, mashing everything together until smooth. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Spicy Thai Coconut Curry with Vegetables
This recipe combines the rich flavors of coconut milk with the bold spices of Thailand, perfectly balanced by a medley of colorful vegetables. A quick and easy curry that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon Thai red curry paste
– 1 can coconut milk
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon fish sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Stir in curry paste; cook 1 minute.
4. Add mixed vegetables, coconut milk, and vegetable broth; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low; let cook for 10-12 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
6. Season with fish sauce (if using) and salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Classic French Onion Soup with Gruyère Croutons
This recipe brings together the flavors of caramelized onions, rich beef broth, and crispy Gruyère croutons to create a quintessential French onion soup.
Ingredients:
– 4 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 6 cups beef broth
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 slices of baguette, toasted
– 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add olive oil and cook until melted.
2. Add sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 20-25 minutes or until caramelized.
3. Add garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add beef broth, whisking to combine. Bring to a simmer.
5. Preheat broiler.
6. Toast baguette slices and top each with a crouton of Gruyère cheese.
7. Ladle hot soup into oven-proof bowls. Top with toasted baguette and Gruyère croutons.
8. Broil until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Lemon Ricotta Pancakes with Blueberry Compote
Brighten up your breakfast or brunch with these light and fluffy lemon ricotta pancakes, topped with a sweet and tangy blueberry compote. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy weekend morning.
Ingredients:
For the pancakes:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 6 ounces ricotta cheese
– Butter, melted
For the blueberry compote:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons water
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat your griddle or skillet to medium heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, lemon juice, and ricotta cheese.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients; stir until just combined.
5. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the griddle.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until bubbles appear on surface.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
8. To make compote, combine blueberries, sugar, water, and lemon juice in a saucepan.
9. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until berries have broken down.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Slow-Cooked Moroccan Lamb Tagine
A rich and aromatic stew originating from Morocco, this slow-cooked lamb tagine is perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup lamb broth or beef broth
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Brown the lamb in batches, then set aside.
3. Add onions, garlic, ginger, cumin, smoked paprika, and saffron; cook until onions are translucent.
4. Add diced tomatoes, broth, browned lamb, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 2-3 hours or until the meat is tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Chicken Cutlets
Elevate your chicken game with this simple and flavorful recipe, where crispy parmesan breadcrumbs add a satisfying crunch to juicy cutlets.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each chicken cutlet into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Transfer chicken to a baking sheet and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until crispy and cooked to your liking.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Fresh Summer Corn and Tomato Salad
Perfect for warm weather gatherings, this refreshing salad combines the sweetness of corn with the tanginess of tomatoes, all tied together with a hint of citrus. It’s an easy and flavorful side dish that’s sure to be a hit at your next BBQ or potluck.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh corn kernels (from about 4 ears)
– 2 large ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine corn kernels, diced tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion.
2. Squeeze the lime juice over the mixture and toss to coat.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, garnish with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including chilling time)
Homemade Spinach and Ricotta Ravioli
Experience the simplicity of making homemade ravioli filled with a creamy spinach and ricotta mixture, perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe yields 12-15 ravioli, serving 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup warm water
– Filling ingredients (see below)
– Olive oil for frying
Filling:
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 8 ounces ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Make the pasta dough by combining flour, eggs, salt, and warm water. Knead for 5-7 minutes.
3. Roll out the pasta dough to a thickness of about 1/16 inch (1.5 mm).
4. Place a tablespoon of filling in the center of each pasta sheet, leaving a 1/2-inch border around.
5. Fold the pasta over the filling to form a triangle or square shape, pressing edges to seal.
6. Cook ravioli for 3-5 minutes in boiling salted water. Serve with your favorite sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Decadent Chocolate Espresso Layer Cake
Moist chocolate cake layers infused with the deep flavors of espresso and topped with a rich, velvety chocolate ganache – this decadent dessert is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1 shot of espresso (about 1 tablespoon)
For the ganache:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine milk, eggs, vanilla extract, and espresso. Whisk until smooth.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans and smooth tops.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Allow cakes to cool completely in pans before assembling and topping with ganache.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Smoky Chipotle Black Bean Burgers
Elevate your burger game with these bold and flavorful Smoky Chipotle Black Bean Burgers, perfect for a meatless meal or a twist on the classic.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup finely chopped yellow onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Buns and toppings (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or grill over medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, mash the black beans using a fork or a potato masher.
3. Add oats, bell pepper, onion, garlic, olive oil, smoked paprika, and chipotle peppers to the mashed black beans. Mix until well combined.
4. Form into 4-6 patties, depending on desired size.
5. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the patties are crispy and heated through.
6. Serve on a bun with your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 8-12 minutes
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi with Linguine
A classic Italian dish that’s quick, flavorful, and sure to please. This Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi with Linguine recipe is a great option for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12 oz linguine pasta
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. If using wine, add it to the skillet and simmer for 1 minute. Stir in lemon juice and mustard.
5. Add reserved pasta water to the skillet if needed to create a creamy sauce.
6. Serve scampi over linguine, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Warm Butternut Squash and Sage Risotto
Warm Butternut Squash and Sage Risotto: A comforting autumnal dish that combines the sweetness of roasted butternut squash with the earthiness of sage, all wrapped up in a creamy risotto.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup Arborio rice
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic and Arborio rice; cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. When rice is cooked, stir in roasted squash, butter, and chopped sage. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Tangy Mango and Avocado Salsa
This refreshing salsa combines the sweetness of mango with the creaminess of avocado, perfect for topping tacos or grilled meats.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
– Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine mango, avocado, red onion, and jalapeño.
2. Squeeze the lime juice over the mixture and toss gently to coat.
3. Stir in cilantro leaves and season with salt to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None!
Fluffy Buttermilk Biscuits with Honey Butter
Start your day off right with these tender and flavorful biscuits, perfectly paired with a sweet honey butter.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 4 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup buttermilk
– Honey for serving (about 2 tablespoons)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add cold butter to the dry ingredients and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Pour in buttermilk and stir until the dough comes together in a shaggy mass.
5. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead 2-3 times until it forms a cohesive ball.
6. Roll the dough out to about 1 inch (2.5 cm) thickness. Use a biscuit cutter or the rim of a glass to cut out biscuits.
7. Place biscuits on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) between each.
8. Brush tops with melted butter and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Honey Butter: Mix softened honey with a pinch of salt until smooth. Serve warm biscuits with honey butter and enjoy!
Spiced Carrot and Ginger Soup
Warm up with this aromatic and comforting soup that combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the spicy kick of ginger. Perfect for a chilly day or as a healthy snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 large carrots, chopped
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup coconut milk or heavy cream (optional)
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped carrots and grated ginger in a little bit of oil until tender, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the vegetable broth, cumin, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the carrots are very tender.
3. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender and puree until smooth.
4. If desired, stir in coconut milk or heavy cream to add creaminess.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Grilled Peach and Burrata Salad
This refreshing summer salad combines the sweetness of grilled peaches with the creaminess of burrata cheese, all tied together with a light vinaigrette.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe peaches, sliced into wedges
– 1 ball of burrata cheese
– 1/4 cup of extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Grill peach wedges for 2-3 minutes per side, or until caramelized and tender.
3. Meanwhile, cut the burrata cheese into small pieces.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
5. Add grilled peaches and burrata cheese to the bowl; season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Rich and Creamy Mushroom Stroganoff
This hearty and flavorful dish is a twist on the classic Russian recipe, featuring sautéed mushrooms, tender beef, and a rich cream sauce. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 oz sour cream (optional)
– Chopped fresh parsley or dill, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook beef strips in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add butter and sauté mushrooms and garlic until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add flour to coat the mushrooms, then gradually stir in heavy cream and mustard. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
4. Add cooked beef back into the skillet and stir to combine with the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or dill, and a dollop of sour cream if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Zesty Lemon and Herb Grilled Salmon
Add a burst of citrusy flavor to your grilled salmon with this refreshing recipe. Perfect for a summer evening or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp chopped fresh rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, thyme, and rosemary.
3. Place salmon fillets in a shallow dish and brush the lemon mixture evenly over both sides of the fish.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill salmon for 4-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your cooking game with these 18 mouthwatering recipes from SplendidTable.org! Whether you’re looking for a comforting side dish, a flavorful main course, or a decadent dessert, this collection has got you covered. From Roasted Garlic and Herb Mashed Potatoes to Decadent Chocolate Espresso Layer Cake, each recipe is carefully crafted to impress your family and friends. With a range of cuisines and cooking methods, there’s something for every taste and occasion. So go ahead, get cooking, and enjoy the culinary journey!