Cuisine: Cheese

Cheez-It® Cracker Chicken Caesar Salad

My friend Chef Sara Tane (I hope she remembers me when she has her own Food Network show!) is responsible for this out of this world recipe. She has developed several recipes for Cheez-It crackers. This Cheez-It® Cracker Chicken Caesar Salad is crazy good. I think I will throw all bread crumbs out and use Cheez-Its from now on. I have merged her Caesar salad with her Cheez-It Cobb salad. I have been an enormous fan of these crackers since college. I used to dip them in Kraft Pimento spread. My culinary tastes were born in Indiana in the early '60s.

By Leslie Blythe

Parmesan Zucchini Rings

Get ready for a snack revelation! These Parmesan Zucchini Rings offers crunch and savory flavor. Each slice of fresh zucchini is generously coated in Parmesan cheese, baking up into a wonderfully crispy, golden crust. They're not just delicious, they're also gluten-free and low-carb, making them the perfect smart snack solution.

There is zero waste here because the zucchini centers become a dip. They are sautéed until tender, then blended with bright lemon, milk, and spices and pulsed until smooth.

By Leslie Blythe

Zucchini Orzo Salad with Pepperoncini Dressing

Zucchini Orzo Salad with toasted walnuts, herbs, and a zesty Pepperoncini Dressing is refreshing and flavorful. Pepperoncini peppers are mild, yellow-green chili peppers that are typically pickled. They are tangy, slightly sour, and subtly spicy. It’s a great side dish for a summer barbecue.

By Leslie Blythe

Divorce Salad

I have made several Marry Me recipes. My husband was a little upset by the title of this salad. One bite and he was raving and would probably marry me again. It's that good!

"Divorce Salad" refers to a specific type of salad, and its name often comes with a story. The most widely referenced "Divorce Salad" is a recipe that gained popularity for its meal-prep friendly qualities and was created by Emily Farris after her divorce as a way to prioritize self-care through food.

The idea behind this "Divorce Salad" is that it's easy to make, nourishing, and designed to be something you can enjoy when you need a simple, comforting meal, especially during a challenging time. It combines marinated cannellini beans, Romaine lettuce, Parmesan cheese and crispy fried onions.

By Leslie Blythe

Mexican Street Corn Brats

These Mexican Street Corn Brats are a must-have for your next summer barbecue!  It brings the vibrant flavors of elote (Mexican street corn) to the classic American bratwurst. Each brat is generously slathered with a tangy mayo sauce and piled high with fresh corn, crumbled cotija cheese, and a sprinkle of green onions. They're bursting with flavor and sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

By Leslie Blythe

Danish Puff Pork Chops

I'd never heard of this dish, but it sounded so interesting that I simply had to make it. Danish Puff Pork Chops use boneless pork chops and topped with a thick sauce made of butter, flour, milk, egg, sharp cheddar cheese and finely minced onion. It’s then spooned over seared pork chops and then baked. As it bakes, it sets and creates a slightly puffed, flavorful crust. Despite their name, Danish Puff Pork Chops are not a traditional Danish recipe. They are considered a comfort food classic that originated in the midwest of the United States. It's unique and absolutely delicious!

By Leslie Blythe

Dump and Bake French Onion Meatballs and Rice

Taking the timeless appeal of classic French onion soup, this casserole is an incredibly easy, weeknight-friendly dish. All the delicious flavors you love are here: buttery caramelized onions, rich beef broth, and savory Gruyère cheese. It's the perfect way to enjoy this iconic 18th-century Parisian creation as a comforting and quick meal on even your busiest evenings.

By Leslie Blythe

Cheese Slaw

In the United States, the story of Cheese Slaw largely begins in Roanoke, Virginia. The recipe is attributed to caterer Lib Wilhelm, whose famous cheese slaw appeared in the Roanoke Junior League cookbook "Oh My Stars!Recipes That Shine," published in 2000. Lib Wilhelm was a well-known figure in Roanoke's social scene, and her cheese slaw was a signature dish, even mentioned in her obituary. This version of cheese slaw often features Swiss cheese, banana peppers, jalapeño, and green onions, bound with mayonnaise. It's often described as the of cousin of pimento cheese.

By Leslie Blythe

Classic Patty Melt

The Classic Patty Melt…
When a grilled cheese meets a hamburger.
The Bread should be sliced rye (seeded or seedless, depending on preference) is traditional and provides a subtle tang that balances the richness of the other ingredients. Some might opt for sourdough or even Texas toast, but classic rye offers a unique and essential flavor profile.
The Beef patty should be made from freshly ground chuck, ideally an 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio. This ensures juiciness and flavor. They should be seasoned simply with salt and pepper, cooked on a hot griddle or cast-iron skillet to develop a beautiful sear and crust, while remaining juicy on the inside.
The Onions should be deeply caramelized. This is where the magic truly happens.
The Cheese must be melty and flavorful. The classic choice for a patty melt is Swiss cheese. I prefer a sharp cheddar. And then there are those people that like American cheese… Well, they are not invited to this party!
The Classic Patty Melt is stacked with meat, onions and cheese and then cooked until golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is fully melted and oozy.

By Leslie Blythe

Slow Roasted Feta-Dill Pistachio Crusted Salmon with Creamy Tzatziki

Slow-Roasted Feta, Dill, and Pistachio-Crusted Salmon is an easy weeknight upgrade that boasts incredible flavor and texture. Experience perfectly moist salmon topped with a crispy, salty, and tangy crust, beautifully nestled on a bed of arugula and creamy tzatziki. It's truly the most delicious way to enjoy salmon! Truth be told, I bought ready-made tzatziki!

By Leslie Blythe