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  • Easy Shrimp Tacos

    These easy shrimp tacos are the perfect simple dinner for busy weeknights! Plump, juicy shrimp are cooked in a flavorful spice blend then wrapped in warm flour tortillas and piled high with your favorite toppings.

    If you’re as much of a taco fiend as I am, you may also like these baja fish tacos, spicy blackened salmon tacos, or carne asada tacos if you’re feeling something meaty!

    Easy Shrimp Tacos Recipe

    Happy Friday! I’m here to bring you another easy and delicious dinner that’s a great timesaver for busy families! I love tacos. You just can’t go wrong with them! Everyone will be happy because they can choose their own toppings, they’re fun to eat as well. Serve them up with some Mexican rice and refried beans for an unrivaled Taco Tuesday! Let’s talk about these shrimp tacos, though.

    This is the BEST taco recipe for all of the seafood lovers in your family. Plump shrimp is cooked with onion, garlic, and warm spices. The flavor just gets seared right in! From there, you just have to add it to a warm flour or corn tortilla, add your favorite toppings, and voila! A dinner worthy of a chef’s kiss. Sorry for the newfound shrimp taco addiction you’re about to have.

    Ingredients You Will Need

    As long as you’ve got the shrimp on hand, chances are you will have all the seasonings and spices needed to cook up these tasty tacos. As simple as these ingredients may be, the flavor is anything but! You may want to make extras, seconds and thirds are a common occurrence with my family. Check out the recipe card below for exact measurements!

    Shrimp: I used peeled, medium-sized shrimp. If using frozen shrimp, make sure it’s thawed before cooking.Olive Oil: This is for cooking the shrimp in. Feel free to use your favorite cooking oil here!Seasonings and Spices: I toss the shrimp in a mix of garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, and chili powder. This is one of my favorite blends because the flavor is warm and savory with the best hint of spice!Flour Tortillas: I like using medium-sized tortillas because they’re big enough to hold all of the shrimp and toppings while also being easy to hold. You can use premade tortillas or also make your own using my easy recipe here! Toppings: (Optional) Use your favorite! I usually go for a mix of sliced avocado, sour cream, salsa, and shredded cabbage, as well as pico de gallo, red onions, and fresh cilantro. For a little extra flavor, drizzle this homemade cilantro ranch sauce on top!

    What Size Shrimp Do I Need?

    I typically use 31- 40/pound count frozen raw shrimp. You can use smaller or larger shrimp if you wish, you may just need to adjust the cooking time as needed.

    How to Make the Best Shrimp Tacos

    Because these shrimp tacos are so easy to make, you’ll want to skip the takeout! They only take 30 minutes to whip up! This easy shrimp tacos recipe is the best for busy weeknights. This Instant Pot salsa verde chicken tacos recipe is another great meal to make in a pinch.

    Thaw and Peel Shrimp: Prep your shrimp. If frozen, run them under cool water until thawed. Then peel them and remove the tails. Prepare Toppings: Meanwhile, prep your toppings. Toss in Seasonings, Cook Shrimp: Add the shrimp to a skillet along with the olive oil and spices. Then cook over medium-high heat until the shrimp are no longer pink, flipping/stirring them occasionally (about 5-6 minutes). Assemble and Serve: Assemble tacos as desired and serve immediately. 

    Tips for Making the Best Shrimp Tacos

    These are just a few extra ways to customize and perfect your shrimp tacos. You’re going to love them! This is one of my go-to dinner recipes. It will make even the pickiest eaters into seafood lovers.

    Add Spice: Want to make spicy shrimp tacos? Add a ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper!Use Taco Seasoning: If you’re in a rush, feel free to use pre-made taco seasoning instead of the spices in the recipe card. Homemade taco seasoning is even better! I have a great recipe to make your own blend here.Swap Out Tortillas: I used flour tortillas in this recipe, but you can also use corn tortillas if you prefer.Warm Your Tortillas: To heat flour tortillas all at once, I like to wrap them in foil and place them in a 375F oven while I’m getting everything ready. It’s also easy to warm tortillas individually in the microwave (just put one on a plate) by heating it for 10-15 seconds.

    Delicious Topping Ideas

    Toppings are what make a good taco great! You really can’t go wrong. This is a great place to use leftovers in your fridge! Here are some ideas to get you started.

    Shredded iceberg lettuce
    Tomatoes
    Your favorite salsa (mango salsa is one of my new favorites!)
    Sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
    Tex-Mex or Mexican cheese blend
    Red onions or scallions
    Avocado
    Fresh lime juice
    Chopped cilantro

    Cafe Rio {Copycat} Cilantro Ranch Dressing

    Pico de Gallo

    Pineapple Salsa

    5 Minute Mango Salsa

    Storing Leftovers

    These amazing shrimp tacos are best eaten fresh, but can be stored in the fridge and enjoyed later as well. You’ll want to store shrimp, toppings, and tortillas separately.

    Leftover Shrimp: Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 days.Storing Flour Tortillas: You can keep any leftover tortillas in a Ziploc bag for 2-3 days.

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    Easy Shrimp Tacos

    These easy shrimp tacos are the perfect simple dinner for busy weeknights! Plump, juicy shrimp are cooked in a flavorful spice blend then wrapped in warm flour tortillas and piled high with your favorite toppings. 
    Course Dinner, Main Course
    Cuisine American, Mexican
    Keyword Easy Shrimp Tacos, shrimp tacos recipe
    Prep Time 20 minutes
    Cook Time 10 minutes
    Total Time 30 minutes
    Servings 4
    Calories 219kcal
    Author Alyssa Rivers

    Ingredients

    1 pound medium shrimp (thawed & peeled)1 tablespoon olive oil1/2 teaspoon garlic powder1/2 teaspoon onion powder1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika1/2 teaspoon ground cumin1/2 teaspoon chili powder8-10 medium flour tortillasToppings (optional, to taste): sour cream, salsa, iceberg lettuce, tomatoes, cilantro, etc.

    Instructions

    Prep your shrimp. If frozen, run them under cool water until thawed. Peel them and remove the tails. 
    Meanwhile, prep your toppings. 
    Add the shrimp to a skillet along with the olive oil and spices. Cook over medium-high heat until the shrimp are no longer pink, flipping/stirring them occasionally (about 5-6 minutes). 
    Assemble tacos as desired and serve immediately. 

    Notes

    Originally posted April 8, 2019

    Updated January 6, 2023

    Nutrition

    Calories: 219kcal | Carbohydrates: 30g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Sodium: 447mg | Potassium: 97mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 200IU | Vitamin C: 0.1mg | Calcium: 93mg | Iron: 2mg
  • Roasted Red Pepper Hummus

    Roasted red pepper hummus is full of vibrant and bold flavors. It’s a creamy chickpea-based dip that is perfect served with fresh vegetables or pita chips. It’s always a party guest favorite!

    I can’t resist a good dip! I seriously love making them for every party because everyone always huddles around them and people get to know each other really quickly. It’s a great way to break the ice and get people enjoying themselves, and keeping them from getting too hungry. For your next get-together, you have to try this simple Poolside Dip, this crowd favorite Rotel Dip, or this warm and satisfying Spinach Dip.

    Hummus with Roasted Red Pepper

    Ok, if you haven’t joined the crowd of hummus lovers, this roasted red pepper hummus is going to change your mind! It’s SO good, I made it for my family last week and the bowl was scraped clean. I’m not kidding. I have never seen my kids eat vegetables so quickly, it was instantly my favorite dip for that reason alone!

    I am not new to making hummus. I’ve got lots of other good hummus recipes up my sleeve, like this gorgeous colored Beet Hummus, this classic hummus recipe that also happens to be the (now second) best hummus I’ve ever had, and this satisfying avocado hummus. They have all been hits, but this red pepper hummus takes the pita chip. It’s one you just have to try!

    Ingredients

    This roasted red pepper hummus is made up of a few simple ingredients that will really blow you away. You won’t believe how much flavor you have in the dip with just these ingredients. You can always add other flavors to the dip to switch it up, but this is my classic recipe that people always ask me for. Find the full measurements listed below in the recipe card.

    Canned Chickpeas: You will want to use canned chickpeas since they are all ready to go. You will drain them off before using them, but make sure to save some of the liquid for blending. It’s full of flavor!Jarred Roasted Red Peppers: I prefer getting the jarred roasted red bell peppers because they are full of lots of flavor and they blend up really nicely. Make sure to drain them before adding them.Lemon Juice: This recipe really tastes great with the added acid. Lemon juice brightens up the whole dish and also makes all of the other flavors pop.Garlic: I used minced garlic and it was perfect. It’s got a great savory flavor with a hint of sweetness.Extra Virgin Olive Oil: It’s important to use good quality olive oil because you will actually be able to taste it in the dip. Aquafaba: This is just a fancy term for the water that is in the can with the chickpeas. This is to help the hummus come together nice and smoothly, and it has lots of flavor. You will want to reserve some for later when you are blending.Kosher Salt: The quality of salt will make a difference in the dip. I love using Kosher, but a great sea salt or Himalayan salt would be perfect.

    Roasted Red Pepper Hummus Recipe

    If you have a food processor, this roasted red pepper hummus comes together in literally 5 minutes! I’ve also made it in my blender and it turned out perfectly. There is really nothing like a homemade hummus, and after trying this recipe you won’t want to go back to store bought!

    Save Liquid: Before you drain and rinse the chickpeas, save some of the liquid from the can. This is called aquafaba and will help give a creamy texture to the hummus.Add Ingredients: To the bowl of a food processor or blender, add the drained chickpeas, drained roasted red peppers, lemon juice, tahini, garlic, olive oil, aquafaba, and salt.Blend and Scrape: Blend until smooth making sure to scrape the sides throughout the blending process. Add more aquafaba if the hummus is too thick.Blend Again: Blend for about 30 seconds to get a smooth and creamy consistency. If you prefer your hummus thicker, leave this step out.Enjoy: Serve with veggies, crackers, or pita bread.

    Tips for Making Hummus

    Making roasted red pepper hummus is a total breeze! You are going to love how quick and easy this recipe is. You can always change a recipe to fit your family’s taste. Here I’ll share a few tips that will help you make your hummus like a pro.

    Ramp Up Flavor By Adding Other Spices: Smoked paprika, sesame seeds, ground cumin, and cayenne pepper are all things I have added before and loved it! I just love a little extra heat, so adding more spicy flavors really ramps up the flavor in my opinion. I love using smoked spicy for extra smoky flavor.What to Eat Hummus With: Hummus is a dip that goes perfectly with celery, carrots, tortilla chips, and of course pita chips! I really do love hummus with just about any vegetable, especially cucumbers. Any way you serve it, hummus dip makes the perfect appetizer!Type of Legume to Use: If you are still wondering, yes, a chickpea is the SAME THING as a garbanzo bean! That is just the Spanish name for it. So if you can only find one or the other at the store, they are both right. Don’t overthink it!

    Storing Leftovers

    Roasted red pepper hummus makes great leftovers! Here is how you can store your leftover hummus to get the most out of this delicious recipe.

    In the Refrigerator: It is best to store leftover beet hummus in an airtight container for 5 to 7 days in the refrigerator. Hummus will thicken as it chills, so stir in 1-2 tablespoons of cold water. It will add moisture and make it nice and creamy again.

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    Roasted Red Pepper Hummus

    Roasted red pepper hummus is full of vibrant and bold flavors. It’s a creamy chickpea-based dip that is perfect served with fresh vegetables or pita chips. It’s always a party guest favorite!
    Course dip
    Cuisine Middle East
    Keyword hummus, roasted red pepper hummus
    Prep Time 5 minutes
    Cook Time 0 minutes
    Total Time 5 minutes
    Servings 6
    Calories 138kcal
    Author Alyssa Rivers

    Ingredients

    1 15- ounce can chickpeas drained and rinsed (save some liquid for blending)7 ounces jarred roasted red peppers drained1/4 cup lemon juice2 teaspoons garlic minced3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil plus more for serving3 tablespoons aquafaba (reserved liquid from canned chickpeas)1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt plus more for taste

    Instructions

    Before you drain and rinse the chickpeas, save some of the liquid from the can. This is called aquafaba and will help give a creamy texture to the hummus.
    To a food processor or blender, add the drained chickpeas, drained roasted red peppers, lemon juice, tahini, garlic, olive oil, aquafaba, and salt.
    Blend until smooth making sure to scrape the sides throughout the blending process. Add more aquafaba if the hummus is too thick.
    Blend for about 30 seconds to get a smooth and creamy consistency. If you prefer your hummus thicker, leave this step out.
    Serve with veggies, crackers, or pita bread.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 138kcal | Carbohydrates: 13g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Sodium: 857mg | Potassium: 172mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 0.3g | Vitamin A: 184IU | Vitamin C: 20mg | Calcium: 43mg | Iron: 1mg
  • Charcuterie Cups

    Impress your guests with these quick and easy charcuterie cups! They’re packed with an assortment of meats, cheeses, fruit and nuts; it’s the ultimate finger food!

    I’m a sucker for good charcuterie. The beauty of charcuterie boards is that you can make so many different kinds! If you’re craving something meaty, this Italian charcuterie is the way to go. If you’re wanting something sweet, a chocolate charcuterie board is a great choice! You can also make one entirely with vegetables. The options are endless!

    Charcuterie in a Cup

    This recipe takes everything good about a charcuterie board but makes it into individual servings. What could be better? No more fighting over that last cube of cheese! Charcuterie cups are super easy to make and will have your guests raving. They’re also sometimes known as “jarcuteries” when served in a glass jar. Not only do they look good, but they taste even better! No matter the occasion, these charcuterie cups are the perfect appetizer choice.

    Like any charcuterie board, this version in a cup can easily be customized. I used a variety of nuts, olives, meats, cheeses, and fruit, but feel free to mix and match to personal preference! I like to add in a bunch of different flavors and textures to these charcuterie cups. This way, there’s something for everyone, no matter what you’re craving! You’re going to LOVE having these on hand to munch on before dinner. They’re the perfect option for dinners throughout the holiday season as well as game days and potlucks!

    Start With the Cups

    Any plastic cups will work, but I like to use crystal party cups because they have a nice presentation. I used 14 ounce cups to make sure they fit all of the tasty ingredients. If you want smaller portions, you can go for something like a 9 ounce cup. Additionally, you’ll need toothpicks or wooden skewers to put these charcuterie cups together.

    The Recipe Critic Recommendation

    The Perfect Serving Cups

    Chinet Crystal Cup – 36ct/14oz

    These cups are super affordable and make for great presentation! They’re also big enough to fit all of your favorite charcuterie goodies in.

    Everything You’ll Need to Make Charcuterie Cups

    I like to have a good mix of sweet, salty, crunchy, and soft in my charcuterie cups. Feel free to leave out anything you don’t like or add in some of your other favorite snacks! The beauty of charcuterie cups is that you can easily customize them to personal preference.

    Nuts: I put these in the bottom of my charcuterie cups. They have the best crunch! I used regular salted pistachios and almonds here, but you can try out different flavors if you’d like! In addition to pistachios and almonds, pecans, walnuts, macadamia nuts, and cashews are all great things to try!Bread: No charcuterie is complete without some tasty crackers! For these charcuterie cups I went for long, narrow crackers so they poke out of the top of the cup. Bread and crackers is a great way to play around with flavors and textures! Here, I used sesame breadsticks and tall baked crackers.Olives: Skewer some olives onto a serving stick with some meat and cheese for a little extra flair! I use both black and green olives here for some variety in flavor and color.Meats: Sliced meats are the best way to pack flavor into your charcuterie cups. I added salami, prosciutto di parma, and peppered red wine salame to my skewers for the best mix of salty, sweet, and peppery flavor. Pepperoni also works as an inexpensive option!Cheeses: I like to have a sharp, flavorful cheese as well as a mild, creamy cheese in my charcuterie cups. I used cheddar cheese and mozzarella, respectively.Berries: I used strawberries, blackberries, and blueberries!

    Extra Add-Ins

    Here are a few extra things you can add to your charcuterie cups! Feel free to mix and match. You can also create a charcuterie cup bar so your guests can make their own!

    Veggies: They may not be for everyone, but me and my kids love adding mini pickles to our skewers! Cherry or grape tomatoes are more great things to add to your skewers.

    How to Make Charcuterie Cups

    It’s SO easy. They only take a few minutes to whip up! These bad boys will impress your guests with minimal effort.

    Add Pistachios and Almonds: To start, add the nuts to the bottom of your clear plastic cup. Then add the olives.Prepare Meat Skewer: On a toothpick thread 3-4 pieces of meat and top with cheese cubes. Add to the cup.Prepare Fruit Skewer: On another toothpick thread the fruit.Add On Remaining Toppings: Alternate on remaining toothpicks the cheese cherry tomatoes and pickles.Top With Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh rosemary.

    Tips and Serving Suggestions

    These are just a few extra ways to jazz up your delicious charcuterie cups. Don’t be surprised if this becomes one of your new favorite appetizers! It’s the best!

    Add Fresh Herbs: Not only do fresh herbs look great, but they add extra flavor and aromatics to each charcuterie cup. I love adding rosemary sprigs but herbs like basil will work great, too!Other Fruits: Green grapes and red grapes are great for adding to the skewers as well as sugared cranberries for some (delicious) winter flair! Sliced apples are also one of my kids’ favorites to add to their skewers. Fruit and cheese is a heavenly combo.

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    Charcuterie Cups

    Impress your guests with these quick and easy charcuterie cups! They’re packed with an assortment of meats, cheeses, fruit and nuts; it’s the ultimate finger food!
    Course Appetizer, Side Dish
    Cuisine American
    Keyword charcuterie cups, charcuterie in a cup
    Prep Time 15 minutes
    Total Time 15 minutes
    Servings 4
    Author Alyssa Rivers

    Ingredients

    Nuts:

    PistachiosAlmonds

    Bread:

    Sesame BreadstickTall Crackers

    Olives:

    Green OlivesBlack Olives

    Meats:

    SalamiProsciutto di Parma peppered red wine Salame

    Cheeses:

    Cheddar CheeseMozzarella Cheese Pearls

    Fruits:

    StrawberriesBlueberriesBlackberries

    Other:

    Mini PicklesCherry TomatoesRosemary for GarnishToothpicks

    Instructions

    To start, add the nuts to the bottom of your clear plastic cup. Then add the olives.
    On a toothpick thread 3-4 pieces of meat and top with cheese. Add to the cup.
    On another toothpick thread the fruit.
    Alternate on remaining toothpicks the cheese cherry tomatoes and pickles.
    Garnish with fresh rosemary.
  • Salami Pizza

    Salami Pizza is a quick and easy recipe that is sure to satisfy the whole family! A homemade pizza with all the flavor of your favorite pizzeria that is ready in just under 30 minutes, this salami pizza is definitely going to be one you come back to again and again.

    It’s no secret I love pizza! It’s such a perfect combination of delicious and soft bread, a sweet and flavorful sauce, and then you get to add whatever toppings you like best. My family has always loved pizza. Which is why you will find us eating Skillet Pizza, or this super tasty BBQ Chicken Pizza, or the controversial classic Hawaiian (Pineapple) Pizza all the time.

    Pizza with Salami

    Salami pizza is just what it sounds like! It’s an incredible and simple twist on the classic pepperoni pizza, but instead you top it with salami. Salami is a lot like pepperoni because it is a cured meat. But salami is less peppery and more herby. It still has tons of flavor, but it has less of that heat afterwards and in my opinion it has more flavor. I love it so much!

    Not that I have anything against a classic pepperoni pizza, I just feel like pepperoni is better in a pizza slider or a stromboli. And honestly, in a pinch, I’ve added it to a charcuterie board and people loved it! Pepperoni has long reigned queen of the pizza topping, but I think it’s time to switch it up and give something new a try. This recipe is better than Domino’s Salami pizza, I promise you won’t regret trying this recipe!

    Ingredients

    Like most pizza, this salami pizza is as good as your ingredients are! I always say that the better quality of the ingredients, the better the food. The sauce for the pizza is really easy to make at home, and I love making it because I feel like it always tastes better that way. The crust is another great thing to make at home. You can find the full ingredients listed in the recipe card.

    Pizza Dough: Pizza dough is so easy to make at home! I totally recommend it, and there are so many great recipes online. It’s a simple dough made of flour, water, salt, yeast, and olive oil. A lot of the time I will make whole wheat pizza dough which is really full of flavor.Marinara Sauce: Marinara sauce is something you can absolutely make at home. The best part about that is you can choose the quality of tomatoes, and add whatever herbs you like. Try it out, you will be amazed at how much you love it!Mozzarella Cheese: You will want to buy shredded cheese because it is going on top of the sauce.Salami: This is key to the pizza! It is so flavorful and those of you who don’t like pepperoni pizza, I think you are going to love salami! It’s usually made out of pork and so yummy.Dried Italian Seasoning: I like to make a fresh blend of Italian seasoning every couple months because the herbs are so much more fresh and they really do taste better. You can use a store bought blend, or blend your own!Parmesan Cheese: I really love to top my pizza with parmesan at the end, but that’s optional.Parsley: This fresh herb adds a lot of flavor and freshness to the pizza.

    Salami Pizza Recipe

    Ok, get ready for a super delicious dinner ready in under 30 minutes! If you have never made pizza at home, you are going to love the process! You don’t even have to have a pizza stone or a fancy oven to cook this salami pizza. You can use what you already have on hand.

    Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 425 degrees.Roll Out Dough: On a lightly-floured surface, roll the dough into a large circle.Add Cornmeal: Lightly sprinkle the cornmeal onto the bottom of your pizza pan and lay the dough on the pan.Top Pizza: Spread pizza sauce evenly. Add the cheese and sliced salami.Season and Bake: Sprinkle with Italian seasoning and bake for 12-14 minutes or until cheese is melted.Garnish and Enjoy: Garnish with grated Parmesan and fresh parsley. Slice and enjoy!

    Other Topping to Add

    A pizza is just a blank canvas, and this Salami pizza is laying down a perfect foundation for you to spice it up however you like! I’m sure you’ve ordered pizza online before, and can see how many topping combinations you can add. Think of this recipe like that! Here are some suggestions if you can’t figure out what you would love on top of this pizza.

    Additional Seasonings: Plain old salt and pepper can add a little extra flavor to the pizza. If you are making your own sauce, it’s best to add it in there. I love adding garlic, fresh basil, and fennel. Add Veggies: I absolutely love a veggie loaded pizza. My favorites are mushrooms and red onions. You could also do artichoke hearts, olives, or pepperoncini (those count as a veggie right?!).Add Meats: I don’t know about you, but my family loves a meat lovers pizza. They get full on less pizza, and they just ask for it more often than not. Great additions to this pizza are ham and sausage. They all taste great together and always satisfy a crowd.

    Storing Leftovers

    Storing leftover pizza is easy, and honestly who doesn’t love a good cold pizza the next day? Not everyone? Ok, well my family and I eat it warm or cold! Here’s how to store your leftovers.

    In the Refrigerator: Store your leftover salami pizza in the refrigerator wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for about 4 days.

    Print

    Salami Pizza

    Salami Pizza is a quick and easy recipe that is sure to satisfy the whole family! A homemade pizza with all the flavor of your favorite pizzeria that is ready in just under 30 minutes, this salami pizza is definitely going to be one you come back to again and again.
    Course Dinner
    Cuisine American
    Keyword pizza, salami pizza
    Prep Time 10 minutes
    Cook Time 14 minutes
    Total Time 24 minutes
    Servings 8
    Calories 301kcal
    Author Alyssa Rivers

    Ingredients

    1 pizza dough1/2 cup marinara2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded20 slices salami 1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoningParmesan cheese, grated (for garnish)fresh parsley (for garnish)cornmeal, for dusting

    Instructions

    Preheat oven to 425 degrees.
    On a lightly-floured surface, roll the dough into a large circle.
    Lightly sprinkle the cornmeal onto the bottom of your pizza pan and lay the dough on the pan.
    Spread pizza sauce evenly. Add the cheese and sliced salami.
    Sprinkle with Italian seasoning and bake for 12-14 minutes or until cheese is melted.
    Garnish with grated Parmesan and fresh parsley. Slice and enjoy!

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1slice | Calories: 301kcal | Carbohydrates: 26g | Protein: 15g | Fat: 15g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Cholesterol: 40mg | Sodium: 1110mg | Potassium: 160mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 266IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 156mg | Iron: 2mg
  • Award-Winning Banana Bread

    Treat yourself with a slice of thick, rich, and moist banana bread. This is the easiest way to make it! It’s full of flavor and always a hit with the family.

    Banana bread is a must-make quick bread that’s so simple but SO delicious! You can also easily tweak it to create things like strawberry banana bread, blueberry banana bread, or chocolate chip banana bread!

    Banana Nut Bread Recipe

    This recipe was submitted to me by one of my readers, Penny. She told me that I had to give it a try. It’s my go-to banana bread recipe now! It’s light, moist, and amazingly soft. Penny told me that this recipe has been in her family for 30 years. She sent me a picture of the recipe card and it looked used and like it was 30 years old! This recipe is definitely a keeper. It’s the best banana bread recipe that I’ve tried! I am so glad that I have it for those over-ripe bananas.

    Ever since Penny gave me the recipe card for this banana bread I haven’t been able to stop making it. My friends and family are always raving about it! It is so moist every time and seriously the easiest quick bread I have ever made. Make this for a quick snack, breakfast or a side dish to any meal. Just know, it won’t last long!

    Ingredients You’ll Need

    The best thing about banana bread is the ingredient list is short and sweet. Nothing complicated here, just some over-ripe bananas and a handful of pantry staples! Check out the recipe card below for exact measurements.

    Ripe Bananas: Make sure the bananas are at least spotted or a dark brown color. Mash them up with a fork or hand mixer.Baking Soda: This helps the bread rise as it is baking.Vegetable Oil: Keeps the bread moist.Sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness.Eggs: Eggs give the banana bread stability and structure.Salt: Just a pinch is all you need to enhance the flavor of this bread!All-Purpose Flour: This acts as the base of the dough. All-purpose flour works great! Avoid using flour with a high protein content to keep your bread from turning out hard and dense.Walnuts: I LOVE adding chopped walnuts to my banana bread, but this is totally optional!

    How Ripe Should My Bananas Be?

    Once bananas start turning brown with small and large spots on them they become softer. After another day or two the bananas will turn to a dark brown or black coloring. This is the perfect banana bread banana! If you are not ready to make banana bread quite yet with the ripe bananas, simply peel the bananas and place in a ziplock bag and freeze them. Then they can stay frozen for a month at a time. Now, you will always be ready to make delicious homemade banana bread.

    Mashing Your Bananas

    Mashing bananas is simple as using a hand mixer and beating on low then increasing to medium-high speed once the bananas are mashed down enough.

    How to Make the BEST Banana Bread

    Mix it all together and place in a loaf pan for baking. It is literally that simple. This is the best dessert bread to make in a pinch!

    Combine: Mix together with a spatula or wooden spoon (all ingredients) mashed bananas, baking soda, oil, sugar, eggs, salt and flour in a large mixing bowl.Add Nuts: If you’re using walnuts, fold them into your banana mixture.Bake: Pour in a greased 9×5 loaf pan. Then bake in preheated oven at 350 degrees for 35 to 40 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean.

    Tips, Substitutions, and Extra Add-Ins

    Here are a few simple substitutions so you can make this bread with whatever you have on hand!

    Butter: Salted butter will also work for this. Just leave out the pinch of salt.Sugar: If you love a little more sweetness, substitute white sugar for brown sugar, or for a healthier option try coconut sugar or monk fruit sweetener.Frozen Bananas: Use frozen bananas by thawing them overnight at room temperature. If there is any liquid from the bananas, simply discard that before mashing.

    What Can You Add to Banana Bread?

    This is the fun part! You can mix in dried fruit, nuts, or even top your banana bread with a layer of frosting. The options are endless and have so much flavor to each of them. Making this bread over and over again just create more ideas for enhancing flavor in each loaf.

    Chocolate Chips: Who can resist chocolate? Chocolate chips can be sprinkled on top, in the batter or both!Nuts or Seeds: I do love walnuts but pecans, sunflower seeds or pecans make for an added soft crunch.Dried Fruit: Cranberries, blueberries, raisins or apricots change this banana bread into something fresh and fruity!Toppings: Cream cheese frosting, maple syrup or just a simple slice of butter spread over top makes for a delicious snack.

    How to Keep Banana Bread Moist

    You guessed it! This bread freezes SO well! It is meant to be a freezer bread for sure. There are a few options on how to store it. Pick which one is best for your family, that is, if you have any leftover bread! I tend to triple this recipe just so I have one loaf I am able to place in the freezer for later.

    At Room Temperature: This is an easy way of storing the bread that will be eaten quickly. Place the cooled bread in a ziplock bag or airtight container. Then store in the pantry or counter at room temperature. Always keep the bread wrapped or stored when not eating. This will lock in the flavor and keep it moist.In the Freezer: Allow the bread to cool completely. Then wrap the entire loaf tightly using plastic wrap or aluminum foil. I recommend going around about 2 to 3 times. Place the wrapped bread in a large freezer ziplock bag and lay in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature.

    Print

    Award Winning Banana Bread

    Treat yourself with a slice of thick, rich, and moist banana bread. This is the easiest way to make it! It’s full of flavor and always a hit with the family.
    Course Bread, Dessert, Snack
    Cuisine American
    Keyword banana bread, banana bread recipe, bread recipe
    Prep Time 15 minutes
    Cook Time 35 minutes
    Total Time 50 minutes
    Servings 10 slices
    Calories 229kcal
    Author Alyssa Rivers

    Ingredients

    3 ripe bananas mashed about 1 cup1 teaspoon baking soda1/3 cup oil2/3 cup sugar2 large eggs beatenpinch of salt1 and 1/3 cup all purpose flour1/2 cup chopped walnuts optional

    Instructions

    Mix together with a spatula or wooden spoon (all ingredients) banana, baking soda, oil, sugar, eggs, salt and flour in a large mixing bowl.
    Fold in the chopped walnuts if using.
    Pour in a greased 9×5 loaf pan. Bake in preheated oven at 350 degrees for 35 to 40 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean.

    Video

    Notes

    Updated on January 4, 2023

    Originally Posted on October 24, 2012

    Nutrition

    Calories: 229kcal | Carbohydrates: 27g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 12g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 33mg | Sodium: 123mg | Potassium: 56mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 14g | Vitamin A: 48IU | Calcium: 13mg | Iron: 1mg
  • Steak Fajita Roll Ups

    Steak fajita roll ups are fun and festive for the whole family and look extra special sautéed with bright colored bell peppers and fresh asparagus seasoned with my homemade fajita seasoning then rolled up in the flank steak. This makes for a light and delicious dinner!

    Steak fajitas are the perfect combination for a fun Mexican meal. These Amazing Steak Fajitas or these Grilled Steak Fajita Skewers with Avocado Chimichurri have the same homemade fajita seasoning that is mouth-watering, good! I also love this quick air fryer version of my Chicken Fajitas, it’s so quick and full of amazing flavor!

    Steak Fajitas Roll Ups

    Sizzle your way into this steak fajita recipe! These roll ups are just perfect for a light meal or a quick. I love how easily these are made and come together so quickly on a busy night. They seriously take less than 20 minutes! The best part is, you get SO much flavor packed in this meal without tortillas or even guacamole (although you can totally add those, they are amazing with this too!)

    This recipe is so simple I wouldn’t be surprised if it became your new favorite! I added my favorite homemade fajita seasoning, which is super easy to whip up and is made from spices you probably already have in your pantry. You will use a flank steak, which is already thin but pounding it to be a bit thinner helps it cook evenly in the skillet. These fajita roll ups are the perfect dinner completing it with some white or Mexican Rice! Your family will absolutely love these and beg for more.

    Ingredients

    Steak fajita roll ups are so simple to make! With just a few ingredients, you can make a delicious, filling, and flavorful dish. This is a complete meal that your family is going to love! I would also recommend squeezing fresh lime juice over the top for the perfect finish! You can find the exact measurements below in the recipe card.

    Olive Oil: Heat the olive oil for the bell peppers, onions and asparagus to cook in.Red, Green and Yellow Bell Peppers: Slice the bell peppers thinly, then sauté and roll up in the flank steak.Onion: Thinly slice the onions to be sautéed with the bell peppers and added to the roll ups.Asparagus: Cut in half and use the top part of the asparagus when sautéing and putting them in the flank steak.Fajita Seasoning: My homemade fajita seasoning is the BEST and adds such a pop of flavor to these roll ups.Flank Steak: Pound the flank steak until it is thin, then cut into long thin strips for wrapping the vegetables in.

    How to Make Steak Fajita Roll Ups

    First, prepare and slice the vegetables then sauté them in a some oil. While they are sautéing prepare the flank steak by pounding and cutting in sections for the roll ups. Now stuff the flank steaks with the fajita vegetables and cook until the steak is cooked through. It is that simple and a light, easy dinner is on the table within minutes.

    Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet on medium-high heat add the olive oil and place bell pepper strips, onion and asparagus inside. Add 1 tablespoon of fajita seasoning to the veggies. Sauté until almost tender. Remove from heat and set aside.Prepare the Flank Steak: Pound the flank steak until ¼ inch thick. Slice in half lengthwise and divide equally. Add the vegetables into the center and roll up and secure with a toothpick.Cook the Steak Roll Ups: Heat the skillet to medium-high heat. Season the steak roll ups with fajita seasoning mix. Add them into the skillet. Cook on each side for 2-3 minutes or until steak is cooked throughout.

    How to Eat Steak Fajita Roll Ups

    If this is your first time eating steak fajita roll ups, I have some tips! Honestly, I was a little hesitant at first trying to figure out the best way to eat them. I finally just grabbed one a took a bite out of it, oh my goodness amazing! I do have some tips for how to enjoy them in different ways that everyone loved!

    Taco Style: Looking for something to hold onto while eating? Grab a corn tortilla and warm it up on a skillet with some oil. Then pop one of these roll ups in there with some fresh pico de gallo and you have the ultimate street food.Grab a Fork and Knife: Keep it classy (and low carb) by eating it with a fork and knife! It’s really great and lower in carbs when eaten this way. You could also make a great cilantro ranch dressing to pour over the top to add more flavor to the mix.Stuff a Burrito: One of my kids really wanted to make a burrito, so we grabbed our flour tortillas and made a few. Let me tell you, they were incredible! We added some rice and refried beans to make it official. It was such a hit!

    Storing Leftovers

    These steak fajita roll ups make really great leftovers! They are so flavorful the next day, I might even like them better. Here is how to store your leftover roll ups.

    In the Refrigerator: You can store your roll ups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

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    Steak Fajita Roll Ups

    Steak fajita roll ups are fun and festive for the whole family and look extra special sautéed with bright colored bell peppers and fresh asparagus seasoned with my homemade fajita seasoning then rolled up in the flank steak. This makes for a light and delicious dinner!
    Course Dinner, Main Course
    Cuisine Mexican
    Keyword fajita, Fajita roll up
    Prep Time 10 minutes
    Cook Time 10 minutes
    Total Time 20 minutes
    Servings 8 Roll Ups
    Calories 84kcal
    Author Alyssa Rivers

    Ingredients

    2 tablespoons olive oil1 red bell pepper cut into strips1 green bell pepper cut into strips1 yellow bell pepper cut into strips1/2 onion cut into strips1 bunch asparagus cut in half1 fajita seasoning recipe1 flank steak sliced in half

    Instructions

    In a large skillet on medium high heat add the olive oil and place bell peppers, onion and asparagus inside. Add 1 tablespoon fajita seasoning into the veggies. Sauté until almost tender. Remove from heat and set aside.
    Pound the flank steak until ¼ inch thick. Slice in half lengthwise and divide equally. Add the vegetables into the center and roll up and secure with a toothpick.
    Heat the skillet to medium high heat. Season the steak roll ups with fajita seasoning. Add them into the skillet. Cook on each side for 2-3 minutes or until steak is cooked throughout.

    Notes

    Originally posted March 8, 2020

    Updated Jan 4, 2022

    Nutrition

    Calories: 84kcal | Carbohydrates: 3g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 5g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 17mg | Sodium: 17mg | Potassium: 195mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 566IU | Vitamin C: 59mg | Calcium: 11mg | Iron: 1mg
  • Greek Yogurt Dip

    Creamy, tangy, and packed with fresh herbs, this Greek yogurt dip is the best addition to any veggie platter! Serve it up with fresh vegetables and your favorite crackers for a snack that’s both healthy and delicious.

    Is there anything better than homemade dip? Not only does homemade dip taste better, but you can usually throw it together with just a few pantry staples. Whipped feta dip, dill pickle dip, and smoked salmon dip are a few more great recipes to try. They’re packed with tasty flavor and elevate fresh vegetables so well! Check out my full list of dips here for more mid-day snack inspiration.

    Greek Yogurt Veggie Dip

    If you couldn’t already tell by the million different recipes on the blog, homemade dips are my love. My kids love dips just as much as I do so I make them all the time at our house! The only downside is that dips can be pretty fatty and high in calories. (NOT the best for my New Year’s resolution of eating healthier!) Good news! With this Greek yogurt dip, you get the best of both worlds. A creamy, flavorful dip that’s also filled with protein and probiotics! This dip is totally macro-friendly and the BEST way to add a pop of flavor to your favorite vegetables. You’re going to love it.

    If you’re not already convinced, this Greek yogurt dip is super easy to make too! Also, as long as you’ve got some plain Greek yogurt on hand, chances are you have everything else needed to whip it up. You only need a handful of seasonings from your spice rack! Flavors like dill, garlic, onion, and Italian seasoning are what make this dip so good. Once you get a taste, you won’t be able to stop. If you’re making this dip for a crowd, you may want to double it! It goes fast. My advice? Be sure to snag some for yourself!

    Ingredients for Greek Yogurt Dip

    Greek yogurt, milk, and a handful of seasonings are all you need here. Because this dip uses such simple ingredients, you’ll want to make it all the time! Grab some sliced veggies and your favorite chips or crackers for a tasty, healthy snack! Note: all measurements can be found below in the recipe card.

    Greek Yogurt: I used plain, non-fat Greek yogurt here to keep things healthy!Italian Seasoning: Italian seasoning is so versatile, I love using it in homemade sauces and dips! You can buy it prepackaged or make your own blend using dried basil, oregano, rosemary, marjoram, and thyme. Find my full recipe here! I always like to make my own seasoning blends at home because they taste better and are free of additives and preservatives.Dried Dill: Dill is a must-add for this dip. It adds that classic Greek flavor!Onion Powder: Gives this dip a pop of sharp flavor.Garlic Salt and Powder: Makes each bite perfectly savory!Cracked Black Pepper: Add to taste.Milk: Adjusts the consistency of the Greek yogurt dip. Any kind of milk works!

    Ready to Make This Healthy Dip?

    Let’s get started! This Greek yogurt dip only takes 5 minutes to make and will have the whole family hooked. I’ve been trying to wean my kids off of ranch dressing and this yogurt dip is the perfect solution. It has incredible flavor but is also filled with protein and probiotics for guilt-free snacking!

    Combine Ingredients: To a medium bowl, add the Greek yogurt, Italian seasonings, dried dill, onion powder, garlic powder, garlic salt, and pepper.Mix: Whisk well until combined and creamy.Add Milk: You can also whisk in milk if the dip is too thick. Continue to add more until you reach your desired consistency.Serve and Enjoy: Serve with fresh veggies or crackers.

    Tips, Tricks, and Serving Suggestions

    This Greek yogurt dip is super straightforward to make, but a few simple fixes can really kick the flavor up a notch.

    Add Lemon: A squeeze of lemon or dash of lemon pepper will give your dip a pop of tasty Mediterranean flavor!Let it Chill: I always like to let my dip sit in the fridge for an hour or two so the flavors have time to meld. Similarly, you may want to go easy on the seasonings at first since it takes time for them to infuse in the yogurt.Use Fresh Herbs: Dried herbs are usually what I use since I have them on hand, but if you really want to take this dip to the next level, use fresh chopped herbs! They make everything taste better.Add Vinegar: If you’re a lover of tangy dips, try adding a couple tablespoons of white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar!

    What to Serve With Your Greek Yogurt Dip

    The creamy, savory flavor of this Greek yogurt dip works well with so many different things. Baby carrots, peppers, sliced cucumber, and celery are a must! This dip is also great with crackers, flatbread, and pita chips. You can use this dip as a spread in gyros, wraps, and over buddha bowls as well! It’s a healthy way to add extra flavor to all of your favorite dishes.

    How Long Does Greek Yogurt Dip Last?

    Greek yogurt dip will last for about 5 days in the fridge. Make sure it’s stored in an airtight container for best results!

    Can You Freeze Greek Yogurt Dip?

    Yes! Just make sure it’s in an airtight container or freezer bag. It will keep for 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and give it a good mix before you serve it.

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    Greek Yogurt Dip

    Creamy, tangy, and packed with fresh herbs, this Greek yogurt dip is the best addition to any veggie platter! Serve it up with fresh vegetables and your favorite crackers for a snack that’s both healthy and delicious.
    Course Appetizer, dip
    Cuisine Greek
    Keyword greek yogurt dip, greek yogurt dip recipe
    Prep Time 5 minutes
    Total Time 5 minutes
    Servings 6
    Calories 36kcal
    Author Alyssa Rivers

    Ingredients

    1 1/2 cups non-fat, plain Greek yogurt1 teaspoon dried Italian seasonings1 teaspoon dried dill1 teaspoon onion powder1 teaspoon garlic powder1/2 teaspoon garlic salt1/4 teaspoon cracked black pepper1-2 tablespoons milk for desired consistency

    Instructions

    To a medium bowl, add the Greek yogurt, Italian seasonings, dried dill, onion powder, garlic powder, garlic salt, and pepper.
    Whisk well until combined and creamy.
    If you like a runnier dip, whisk in milk if the dip is too thick. Continue to add more until you reach desired consistency.
    Serve with fresh veggies or crackers.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 36kcal | Carbohydrates: 3g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 0.3g | Saturated Fat: 0.1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.02g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.04g | Trans Fat: 0.003g | Cholesterol: 3mg | Sodium: 214mg | Potassium: 94mg | Fiber: 0.3g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 22IU | Vitamin C: 0.2mg | Calcium: 69mg | Iron: 0.3mg
  • Hot Cocoa Cookies

    These hot cocoa cookies are the perfect treat for the winter season! These soft and delicious cookies have a marshmallow on top and some ooey, gooey chocolate in the middle. You will be won’t be able to stop at just one!

    Cookies, especially holiday cookies, are some of the best things that we make all season long. There are SO many different varieties to choose from but the long standing favorites in our household are these Grinch Cookies, these yummy Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies or, my very favorite… Italian Christmas Cookies!

    What are Hot Cocoa Cookies?

    These little hot cocoa cookies are packed with chocolate and cocoa. These cookies are topped with a gooey marshmallow and baked to perfection. Just when you think they are just about perfect, you hit the melted chocolate in the center of the cookie. It really represents a cup of hot cocoa perfectly! Needless to say…These were an instant family hit at our house!

    Not only are these cookies insanely delicious, but they are simple as well! you probably already have all of the ingredients at home, and trust me… Once you start making them, you will always have the ingredients to make hot chocolate cookies at home because they are SO good! These are perfect for any occasion and are always a hit at a holiday cookie exchange. For more delicious holiday cookies, check out this roundup here.

    Ingredients For the Best Hot Cocoa Cookies

    These easy hot cocoa cookies are deliciously sweet and so fun to make!  You will be very familiar with the ingredients and have most of them on hand.  The marshmallows and melted chocolate take these cookies to the next level! Check out the recipe card at the bottom of the post for exact measurements.

    Unsalted Butter: Butter helps the melting of the chocolate.Semisweet Chocolate Bars: Semisweet chocolate is the best in these cookies. Chocolate chips can be used as well.Flour: I used all purpose flour in this recipe. Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: Adds richness and more delicious chocolate flavor.Baking Powder: This helps your cookies rise (no one wants flat cookies)!Salt: The salt balances out the sweetness of the cookie and also enhances all of the flavors of the other ingredients. Light Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds richness to these cookies.Eggs: Room-temperature eggs are best.Vanilla Extract: Vanilla is a must in cookies and enhances chocolate flavors.Marshmallows: Cut the marshmallows in half… They will get nice and fluffy in the oven.Semisweet Chocolate Bars: The melted chocolate on top is so yummy!

    How to Make Hot Cocoa Cookies

    Grab your kiddos and make these fun hot cocoa cookies for the holidays or any time of year! This recipe is easy to follow and comes together quickly. Follow my easy instructions below for how to make hot cocoa cookies.

    Make Dough

    Melt the Butter and Chocolate: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter and chopped chocolate over medium-low heat, stirring frequently. Once melted, then remove the saucepan from the burner and allow it to cool for 15 minutes.Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Set aside.Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, mix together the eggs, brown sugar, and vanilla until smooth using an electric hand mixer.Add Melted Chocolate Into the Wet Mixture: Add the cooled melted chocolate and mix to combine.Add the Dry Ingredients: Add the dry flour ingredients in two batches into the dough. The dough will be almost like a thick cake batter consistency.Cover and Chill: Cover with plastic wrap and chill the dough in the fridge for at least 1 hour.

    Bake

    Form Balls: Once the dough is chilled then you can line the baking sheets with parchment paper. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place 2 inches apart on the parchment paper. Flatten the tops slightly.Bake: Bake at 325 degrees Fahrenheit for about 12 minutes or until the cookie edges start to crack.Cut Marshmallows and Chocolate: While they are baking, cut the marshmallows in half. Stick one square of chocolate onto each cut side of the marshmallows. It will be on the sticky side, so the chocolate piece will stay in place.Place Marshmallows and Chocolate onto Hot Cookies: Remove the hot cocoa cookies from the oven. While still on the baking sheet then stick a marshmallow with the chocolate piece side down on top of each cookie. Then, place the cookies back into the oven for about four additional minutes until the marshmallows are soft.Cool and Enjoy: Remove from the oven and transfer to cooling racks to cool. Grate additional chocolate over the top for garnish if you would like!

    Variations

    When I find something that I love (and I love these hot cocoa cookies), then I always want to figure out different ways to switch it up so that I can make it all the time! Here are a few ideas for keeping this recipe unique each time.

    Toppings: I love drizzling on white chocolate sauce, yummy caramel sauce, or chocolate sauce. You can also top it with festive sprinkles or grated chocolate to make them perfect for the holiday season! Mix-Ins: If you want these hot cocoa cookies to be extra rich, then go ahead and add some mini white chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, or some toffee bits to the dough. You will taste them in every single bite!

    How to Store Leftover Cookies

    These hot cocoa cookies are easy to make ahead of time and make fantastic leftovers. Once your cookies have cooled, then you can place them in an airtight container and store them on your counter at room temperature. They should last about 3-4 days!

    Print

    Hot Cocoa Cookies

    These hot cocoa cookies are the perfect treat for the winter season! These soft and delicious cookies have a marshmallow on top and some ooey, gooey chocolate in the middle. You will be won’t be able to stop at just one! 
    Course Dessert
    Cuisine American
    Keyword cookie recipes, cookies, hot chocolate cookies, hot cocoa cookies
    Prep Time 20 minutes
    Cook Time 12 minutes
    Total Time 32 minutes
    Servings 24 cookies
    Calories 261kcal
    Author Alyssa Rivers

    Ingredients

    ½ cup unsalted butter12 ounces semisweet chocolate bars chopped (or semisweet chocolate chips)1 1/2 cups flour1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder1/4 teaspoon salt1 1/4 cups light brown sugar packed3 eggs at room temperature2 teaspoons vanilla extract12 marshmallows cut in half7.5 ounce semisweet chocolate bars cut into ½ inch squares

    Instructions

    In a medium saucepan, melt the butter and chopped chocolate over medium-low heat, stirring frequently. Once melted, remove the saucepan from the burner and allow it to cool for 15 minutes.
    In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Set aside.
    In a large mixing bowl, mix together the eggs, brown sugar, and vanilla until smooth using an electric hand mixer.
    Add the cooled melted chocolate and mix to combine.
    Add the dry flour ingredients in two batches into the dough. The dough will be almost like a thick cake batter consistency.
    Cover with plastic wrap and chill the dough in the fridge for at least 1 hour.
    Once the dough is chilled, line baking sheets with parchment paper. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place 2 inches apart on the parchment paper. Flatten the tops slightly.
    Bake at 325 degrees Fahrenheit for about 12 minutes or until the cookie edges start to crack.
    While they are baking, cut the marshmallows in half. Stick one square of chocolate onto each cut side of the marshmallows. It will be on the sticky side so that the chocolate piece will stay in place.
    Remove the cookies from the oven. While still on the baking sheet, stick a marshmallow with the chocolate piece side down on top of each cookie. Place the cookies back into the oven for about four additional minutes until the marshmallows are soft.
    Remove from the oven and transfer to cooling racks to cool. Grate additional chocolate over the top for garnish if would like!

    Notes

    Originally Posted on December 29, 2013

    Updated on December 1, 2022

    Nutrition

    Calories: 261kcal | Carbohydrates: 33g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 13g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 32mg | Sodium: 41mg | Potassium: 202mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 22g | Vitamin A: 159IU | Calcium: 41mg | Iron: 2mg
  • Protein Pancakes

    Healthy and delicious pancakes are a great start to your morning routine! These protein pancakes are packed with ingredients that are sure to keep you satisfied and give you the energy you need to tackle the day!

    Healthy and hearty breakfast solutions are all the rage, especially at the beginning of the year! If you are looking for more recipes like this, try out these homemade protein bars, these delicious Keto pancakes, or this creamy detox smoothie.

    What Are Protein Pancakes?

    If you love pancakes but want a healthier option, then this recipe is coming to your rescue! Protein pancakes are filled with macro-friendly ingredients! You would never know that these were “healthy” based on taste alone because they are absolutely divine! These ingredients will elevate your favorite breakfast food in not only health but taste!

    Made with oats, cottage cheese, and egg whites along with a bit of vanilla flavoring and cinnamon. These pancakes are going to surprise you! They taste amazing on their own, or you can top them with some delicious syrup, fruit, or homemade jam. Plus, they are not only delicious to the taste, but they are so easy to make! They store easily, and you can pop them in the microwave or toaster to warm them right up. In fact, I suggest that you double the recipe when you make them and save some in your fridge for breakfast all week!

    Healthy Ingredients For Protein Pancakes

    Ok, now that I have convinced you to try out these amazing pancakes, let’s talk ingredients. These pancakes don’t require protein powder. The protein comes from egg whites and cottage cheese. I love this option because not everyone likes protein powder. These pancakes are made with only six simple ingredients! See the recipe card at the bottom of the post for exact measurements.

    Egg Whites: Loaded with protein without all the fat. The egg whites bind together the batter and make it smooth. Rolled Oats: The oats are going to be what gives these that hearty depth. They will make it so that these waffles fill you up! Make sure to use gluten-free oats for gluten-free pancakes.Cottage Cheese: The cottage cheese is where you are going to get the bulk of the protein in these pancakes. No protein powder is needed! Baking Powder: Baking powder gives these pancakes a little “lift.” Add some fluff to them since there is a lack of flour and gluten.Vanilla Extract: This ingredient adds the perfect amount of sweetness to the pancakes.Cinnamon: Added flavor of cinnamon make these pancakes delicious!

    Protein Pancakes Recipe

    This protein pancake recipe is so easy to make at home! Get ready to be amazed when they’re ready to eat in less than 10 minutes! How can you resist a healthy meal option that’s quick, easy, and delicious? 

    Blend and Rest Batter: Add all of the ingredients to a blender and blend until smooth. Allow the batter to sit for a couple of minutes while you heat the skillet. It allows the batter to thicken a little.Preheat: Preheat your griddle according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Or use a skillet over the stove on medium heat.Spray: Lightly spray the griddle with non-stick cooking spray.Cook: Pour ¼ cup batter onto the griddle or skillet and cook until bubbles begin to appear on the surface. Carefully flip and cook the opposite side until golden brown. Adjust and lower the heat if pancakes begin to burn.Serve: Serve with fresh berries and pure maple syrup!

    Toppings and Mix-Ins

    I have many ideas on how you can change these protein pancakes up so that you can make them all the time! It’s easy to add a few mix-ins or top them with different things. I always try to choose healthier options, but my kids have no problem eating these if I have yummy toppings. Here are some ideas! 

    Toppings: It’s no secret that waffles taste delicious with fresh ingredients piled on top! I love to use fresh fruits such as bananas, raspberries, strawberries, blueberries, or blackberries. Spreads: I love to offer some sort of spread or syrup. It may not add to the healthiness of the pancake, but it sure does taste good! Try some buttermilk syrup, any kind of nut butter, or some cinnamon honey butter on top! Mix-in options: Take these pancakes to the next level with some delicious add-ins to the batter. Try mini chocolate chips or blueberries. If you want to make these for a special birthday breakfast then put in some rainbow sprinkles. My kids love it when I mix things in! Then it’s fun AND healthy.

    How to Store Leftovers

    These protein pancakes make fantastic leftovers! My husband loves when I double the batch for him to eat them all week long. It’s a great grab-and-go breakfast for those busy mornings. Here is how you can store (or freeze) them.

    In the Refrigerator: When your pancakes have cooled then place them in an airtight container and put them in your fridge. They will last for about 3 days. When you are ready to eat them again then just pop them in the microwave for 45 seconds and you are good to go! In the Freezer: Place the leftover pancakes in an airtight ziplock bag and label it with the date. They will last 1 to 3 months in the freezer. Take them out and pop them into the microwave when you are ready to eat them, no need to thaw them first!

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    Protein Pancakes

    Healthy and delicious pancakes are a great start to your morning routine! These protein pancakes are packed with ingredients that are sure to keep you satisfied and give you the energy you need to tackle the day!
    Course Breakfast
    Keyword 15 minute, easy, Healthy, protein pancakes
    Prep Time 5 minutes
    Cook Time 10 minutes
    Total Time 15 minutes
    Servings 5
    Calories 132kcal
    Author Alyssa Rivers

    Ingredients

    1 cup egg whites1 cup rolled oats1 cup cottage cheese1 teaspoon ground cinnamon1 teaspoon baking powder1 teaspoon vanilla extract

    Instructions

    Add all of the ingredients to a blender and blend until smooth. Allow the batter to sit for a couple of minutes while you heat the skillet. It allows the batter to thicken a little.
    Preheat a large skillet to medium-high heat. Or heat a griddle according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
    Lightly spray the skillet or griddle with non-stick cooking spray.
    Pour ¼ cup batter onto the griddle or skillet and cook until bubbles begin to appear on the surface. Carefully flip and cook the opposite side until golden brown. Adjust and lower the heat if pancakes begin to burn.
    Serve with fresh berries and pure maple syrup!

    Nutrition

    Serving: 2pancakes | Calories: 132kcal | Carbohydrates: 14g | Protein: 12g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 7mg | Sodium: 215mg | Potassium: 265mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 60IU | Vitamin C: 0.02mg | Calcium: 85mg | Iron: 1mg
  • Charcuterie Board Roundup

    This charcuterie board roundup has the BEST snack boards! Ranging from simple to seasonal to ones you can use for any occasion, I have a board for your gatherings all year long!

    I love a delicious charcuterie board! The creativity that you see in them, not to mention the wide array of different kinds of food, make these perfect for everyone! I especially love the seasonal ones like this Valentine’s Charcuterie Board, this spooky Halloween Charcuterie Board, or this winter-themed Hot Chocolate Charcuterie!

    The BEST Charcuterie Board Roundup

    Charcuterie (pronounced shar-koo-tuh-ree) boards used to only feature meat and cheese (the definition of charcuterie means a collection of cooked meats)… Charcuterie boards have come a long way and are now just fancy, themed snack trays! While lots of my charcuterie boards feature the classic meats and cheeses, some highlight other delicious food such as fruit, candy, veggies, and everything in between!

    A charcuterie board is the perfect snack tray for any occasion because you can not only add seasonal foods but you can shape things to be seasonal as well! I used pepperoni to make a football in this football charcuterie, and I love making holidays festive with a wreath-shaped charcuterie or this Christmas tree board! Trust me when I say that this charcuterie board roundup is the best of the best!

    How to Make the Perfect Charcuterie Board

    To make the perfect snack tray, you need a variety of food! Here are some suggestions that you can use when making your snack tray.

    Meats and Cheeses: The meat and cheese bring that savory taste and texture to the board. The cheeses can be cubed, sliced, or cut into shapes and placed anywhere on your board. The meat looks perfect when it is all rolled up or sliced. Or, you can go the extra mile and make some salami roses. Instructions for that are here: How to Make a Salami Rose (2 ways!). If you do this and have a variety of shapes and sizes, then you will have a professional-looking board!Fruits and Veggies: I tend to use seasonal fruits and veggies for my board. This makes them fresh and easy to find. You want to pick out fruit and vegetables that are different in color and texture. Then they will really pop on this board!Crackers and Bread: I love adding these neutral yet flavorful items to the charcuterie board. They will go with anything! Dip: Whether you use savory dip like hummus or ranch or you want to use some delicious sweet dip, your need some dip on your board! Candy and Cookies: These don’t go on every board but I love mixing them in whenever I can. This Halloween board is a great example of how to add in the sweets with the savory!

    The Recipe Critic Recommendation

    Large Round Charcuterie Board

    18″ Round Acacia Wooden Serving Board with Handle

    This wooden board is perfect for adding fruits, candy, cheese, and chocolate to make your favorite charcuterie board.

    How to Assemble

    Assembly of your charcuterie board is the fun part! This is such a great (and delicious) way to make any season or holiday special! Change it up to make it just what you need.

    Dips First: Because Dips are typically in small bowls, I like to set these on the board first and then work around them. Add the Cheese: Start assembling your board by adding the cheese.Pile on the Meats: You can roll the meat up, make some salami roses, or just stack it. Whatever adds some texture to your board works! Next, Add the Fruit and Vegetables: The fruit and vegetables add some brilliant colors that make any board stand out. Cookies, Bread, and Crackers: Because these are more neutral, I like to add these in last as a filler because they will look great wherever you place them!

    New Year’s Eve Charcuterie Board

    Throw a fun party and ring in the new year with this fantastic New Year’s charcuterie board! Endless options of sweet and savory finger foods will keep your guests awake until midnight.
    Ingredients: Italian Dry Salami, Garlic and Herb Bellavitano, Manchego, Garlic and Herb Brie, Fig and Grapefruit Goat Cheese, Havarti, Letter Cheese Cutter, Round Butter Crackers, Nut Thins, Rectangular Snack Crackers, Rolo Wrapped Chocolate, Chocolate Covered Almonds , Ferrero Rocher, Grapes, Strawberries, Blueberries, Raspberries , Dried Mango, Miniature snacking pickles, Almonds, Disco Balls, Mini Martinelli

    Hot Chocolate Charcuterie Board

    It doesn’t get more fun than a hot chocolate charcuterie board! Filled with all of the delicious toppings and mix-ins that any hot chocolate lover will go crazy for, this board is for everyone! 
    Ingredients: Hot chocolate mix, Large Marshmallows, Mini Marshmallows, Chocolate Chips, Chocolate Drops,, Chocolate covered pretzels, White Chocolate Pretzel Sticks, Peppermint Meringues, Cinnamon Sticks

    Valentine’s Charcuterie Board

    The holiday of love is just around the corner, and you need to try out this Valentine’s day charcuterie board! It’s packed with meat, cheeses and all sorts of festive red and pink fruits and candy to start the holiday off right.
    Ingredients: Italian Dry Salami , Grape Jam, Cherries, Blueberries, Strawberries, Raspberries, Red Grapes, Garlic and Herb Boursin, Wensleydale with cranberries, Sharp cheddar, Plain Goat Cheese with Pink Food Coloring, Lindor Chocolate Truffles, Conversation Hearts , Cinnamon Hearts,, Chocolate Hearts

    Simple Charcuterie Board

    A simple charcuterie board is all that you need for any holiday or event! Filled with all of your favorite things, it will for sure be the star of the show! 
    Ingredients: Italian Dry Salami, Double Cream Brie, cubed, English Cheddar, cubed, Soft Cheddar, cubed, Dried Apricot, Strawberries, Grapes, Pomegranate, Blueberries, Pistachios, Baked crackers, Honey, Jam

    Breakfast Charcuterie Board

    Wake up your family or guests to the world’s CUTEST breakfast charcuterie board! Filled with everyone’s favorite breakfast indulgences of waffles, pancakes, bagels, fruit, and all the decadent toppings your heart desires.
    Ingredients: Mini Pancakes,, Belgian Waffles,, Mini Bagels, White Chocolate Chips, Semi Sweet Chocolate Chips, Cookie Butter, Nutella, Whipped Cream, Maple Syrup, Bananas, Blackberries, Blueberries, Strawberries, Raspberries

    Fruit Charcuterie

    You will love the vibrant colors of all your favorite fruits beautifully displayed together on a fruit charcuterie board. Serve this as a perfect side dish or dessert at your next party alongside a creamy fruit dip! 
    Ingredients: Pineapple, Green and Red Grapes, Mango, Blueberries, Raspberries, Kiwi, Blackberries, Strawberries, Star Fruit, Kumquat, Pink Dragonfruit, Oranges, Fruit Dip

    Veggie Charcuterie Board

    Every get-together needs a nutritious veggie charcuterie board full of colorful vegetables beautifully displayed all together. Perfect as an appetizer or side dish, this healthy board of fresh veggies is a hit served with a side of hummus and ranch dressing.
    Ingredients: Hummus,, Beet Hummus, Veggie Dip,, Mini Sweet Peppers, Sugar Snap Peas, Radishes, Cherry Tomatoes, Celery, Broccoli, Cucumber, Cauliflower, Rainbow Baby Carrots, Whole Bell Pepper,

    Football Charcuterie Board

    This football charcuterie board is perfect for any of your game day or tailgate parties! It’s packed with all of the perfect finger food that everyone will love and you will be making this over and over during football season! 
    Ingredients: Cheese Ball , Pepperoni, Parmesan Cheese, Carrot Sticks, Sliced Cucumber, Celery, Hummus, Ranch Dip, Stone Bread, Crostini Bread, Triscuit triangles, Ruffles Chips, Pretzels, Cheddar Cheese, Salami

    Fall Charcuterie Board

    This fall charcuterie board is easy to make and is perfect for all of the parties this season! Packed with colorful and delicious food it is sure to be a hit with all of your guests! 
    Ingredients: Italian Dry Salami, Peppered Salami, Proscuitto, Cranberry Goat Cheese, Dutch Spicy Kaas, Creamy Toscano Cheese, Beemster Cheese, Pumpkin Cranberry Crisps, Pumpkin Flavored Sandwich Cookies, Pumpkin Spice Batons, Strawberries, Red Globe Grapes, Green Apples, Blueberries, Blackberries, Pumpkin dip

    Hocus Pocus Charcuterie Board

    A tribute to the Sanderson Sisters, this Hocus Pocus charcuterie board will have all of your guests dying at not only the delicious variety of food but the uncanny resemblance to some of Halloween’s most famous witches!
    Ingredients: 8 ounce wheels brie, wedges bellavitano merlot cheese, cheese sticks, uncured pepperoni, blackberries, grapes, blueberries, dried Mango, figs, strawberries, pumpkin seeds, pistachios, fall leaf cookies, Halloween Oreos, whole grain crackers, Orange chocolate dipped pretzels, chocolate candy eyeballs, pumpkin gummies, black licorice, pull apart strawberry Twizzlers, Lindor Truffles, Miniature Reeses Cups, Oreos, frosting , Rice Krispie Treats, food coloring, candy eyeballs

    Halloween Charcuterie Board

    This Halloween charcuterie board is a ghoulish treat for any party! A spooky twist on your classic cheese board, it’s filled with fruit, crackers, and meat and sure to be everyone’s favorite!
    Ingredients: Prosciutto di parma, Italian Dry Salami, Green Olives, Double Cream Brie, Green Goddess Gouda, Blueberry Vanilla Chèvre, Merlot Bellavitano, Smoked Gouda for “Boo”, pesto, apricot jam, honey, Strawberries, Black Grapes, Blackberries, Blueberries, Dried Apricots, Pistachios

    Christmas Wreath Charcuterie

    This Christmas wreath charcuterie board is the perfect festive touch to any holiday party! It’s stunning and delicious!
    Ingredients: Italian Dry Salami, Garlic Herb Brie, English Cheddar Cheese, Cranberry Cheese, Cranberry Cinnamon Goat’s Milk Cheese, Strawberries, Grapes, Pomegranate, Cranberries, Blueberries, Pistachios, Candied pecans , Ghiradelli Peppermint Bark Squares, Baked crackers (any kind), Rosemary sprigs

    Christmas Tree Charcuterie Board

    The cutest addition to any holiday party, this Christmas tree charcuterie board is both festive and delicious! It features a delicious mix of salami, prosciutto, cheese, fruits, and nuts, with rosemary sprigs as tree branches! It almost looks too good to eat.
    Ingredients: Italian Dry Salame, Prosciutto, Kiwis, Blueberries, Wensleydale with Cranberries, Small Mozzarella Cheese Pearls, Muenster Cheese Slices, Green olives, Almonds, Round Crackers, Pretzel Sticks, Rosemary for garnish

    Santa Veggie Tray

    Skip the store-bought platters and make this Santa veggie tray instead! It’s a healthy and delicious way to add a little extra holiday cheer to all of your Christmas get-togethers.
    Ingredients: recipe hummus, red bell pepper, Mozzarella Pearls, head cauliflower florets, cherry tomato, 15 ounce can large black olives, drained, cucumber, small mozzarella pearls, sugar snap peas, crackers of choice, celery stalks

    Christmas Dessert Charcuterie Board

    If you are looking for a Christmas dessert to impress your guests then this charcuterie board is it! Stunning and delicious, this board is full of candy, chocolate, cookies and fruit for the holiday season! 
    Ingredients: Pomegranate, Strawberries, Orange cranberry scones, Molasses cookies, Large dark chocolate candy cane pretzels, Waffle cookies, Biscotti cookies, Baton wafer cookies, Chocolate covered peppermint cookies, Christmas tree cookies, Mini present brownies, Gingerbread men, Mint chocolate squares, White chocolate peppermint kisses, Wrapped chocolate balls, Chocolate orange, Mini peppermint meringue, White chocolate peppermint bark, Red chocolate covered cherries, Wrapped Caramels, Chocolate nut clusters, Homemade chocolate sauce