Simple and Delicious Home Cooking

Home cooking doesn’t need to be complicated to be delightful. Here, you’ll find straightforward recipes and tips that make preparing meals enjoyable and efficient. These dishes highlight the pleasures of fresh ingredients and easy techniques.

Classic Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

Start by heating a generous amount of olive oil in a large pan. Add sliced garlic and gently sauté until golden. Be cautious not to burn the garlic as it can become bitter. Toss in red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. Cook your spaghetti until al dente, then transfer it directly into the pan with the garlic oil. Mix well, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated. Finish with some fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors.

Roasted Chicken Thighs

Preheat your oven to 425°F. Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs. Lay the thighs skin side up on a baking sheet. Roast for about 35-40 minutes until the skin is crispy and the meat is cooked through. The juices should run clear when the meat is pierced with a knife. Let the thighs rest for a few minutes before serving.

Simple Tomato Basil Soup

Begin by sautéing diced onions in olive oil until soft. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute. Pour in canned whole tomatoes, including their juice. Break them up with a spoon as they cook. Add in some chicken or vegetable broth to achieve your desired consistency. Let the soup simmer for 20 minutes. Stir in fresh basil leaves just before serving. Puree the soup with an immersion blender for a smoother texture.

Vegetable Stir-fry

Prep your vegetables by cutting them into uniform pieces. Heat a bit of oil in a large skillet or wok. Start by cooking tougher vegetables like carrots and broccoli. Once they begin to soften, add in quicker-cooking veggies such as bell peppers and snap peas. Stir frequently to ensure even cooking. For the sauce, combine soy sauce, a splash of rice vinegar, and a little honey. Pour over the vegetables and toss to coat. Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles.

Oven-Baked Salmon

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Place salmon fillets on a lined baking sheet. Brush with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of fresh dill. Bake for about 12-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. The fish should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. Serve with a wedge of lemon and a side of your favorite green vegetable.

Mashed Potatoes

Peel and cut potatoes into even chunks. Boil in salted water until fork-tender. Drain and return them to the hot pot to evaporate any remaining water. Mash with a potato masher or ricer. Add butter and warmed milk, stirring until smooth. Season with salt and pepper. For an extra touch, mix in roasted garlic or grated cheese.

Crispy Tofu

Start by pressing the tofu to remove excess water. Cut into cubes and toss with a little cornstarch. Heat oil in a pan and add the tofu pieces. Cook on all sides until crisp and golden. Remove from the pan and drain on a paper towel. Serve with a dipping sauce made of soy sauce, sesame oil, and green onions.

Garlic Bread

Slice a baguette in half lengthwise. In a small bowl, mix softened butter with minced garlic, chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt. Spread generously onto the bread halves. Bake at 375°F for about 10 minutes until the edges are slightly golden. For an added touch, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and broil for an additional minute.

Fresh Fruit Salad

Gather a mix of your favorite fruits. Some good options are berries, grapes, melon, and citrus. Cut into bite-sized pieces. In a small bowl, combine a little honey with lime juice and zest. Toss the fruit with the dressing right before serving to keep it fresh and vibrant.

Basic Omelette

Beat eggs in a bowl and season with salt and pepper. Heat butter in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Pour in the eggs and let them sit for a few seconds. Using a spatula, gently push the eggs from the edges toward the center. Once the eggs are mostly set, add in your choice of fillings such as cheese, ham, or veggies. Fold one half over the other and slide onto a plate.

Herbed Rice Pilaf

In a pot, sauté finely chopped onions in butter until soft. Add rice and stir until coated with the butter. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Lower the heat, cover, and simmer until the rice is cooked through. Stir in freshly chopped herbs like parsley, dill, or chives before serving.

Homemade Granola

Preheat your oven to 300°F. In a large bowl, mix rolled oats with nuts, seeds, and a pinch of salt. In a small saucepan, warm honey and oil until combined. Pour over the oat mixture and stir to coat. Spread onto a baking sheet and bake for about 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through. Let cool completely before breaking into clusters and storing.

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