More Dates!
Dates are quickly becoming a must-have ingredient for cooks and foodies alike. As a natural and nutrient-dense alternative to refined sugars, dates are the perfect sweetener for health-conscious and plant-based diets. With their unique flavor and versatility, it's no wonder that dates are experiencing a resurgence in popularity. In 2023, we predict that this trend will only continue to grow as more and more people discover the delicious potential of dates. Try our Date and Honey Glazed Chicken recipe, and see for yourself why dates are the next big thing in healthy and delicious cooking.
Date and Honey Glazed Chicken Recipe
In a small saucepan, combine 1/2 cup pitted dates, 1/4 cup honey, 1/4 cup orange juice, 1 tablespoon dijon mustard, and 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the dates are softened and the sauce is thick and sticky. Brush the sauce over grilled or baked chicken and serve. This glazed chicken is a tasty and flavorful dish that is sweetened naturally with dates instead of refined sugar.
Smashed Potatoes
Smashed potatoes are a simple and tasty way to prepare potatoes by boiling or steaming them until they are tender, then smashing them with a fork or potato masher and roasting them in the oven until crispy and golden. This method of cooking potatoes produces a delicious and crispy texture, and it is a great way to add flavor and variety to your potato dishes.
Smashed and Roasted Garlic Potatoes
In a large pot, boil or steam small potatoes until they are tender. Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly. Use a fork or potato masher to smash the potatoes, leaving some larger pieces intact. In a large baking dish, toss the smashed potatoes with olive oil, minced garlic, chopped fresh rosemary, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper to taste and roast in the oven at 400°F until the potatoes are crispy and golden. This dish is a delicious and flavorful side that pairs well with grilled meats or roasted vegetables.
Produce Pasta
Looking to add a little extra zest to your menu? Consider incorporating produce pastas! There are many different types of produce that can be used as pasta substitutes, including vegetables like zucchini, squash, and eggplant, as well as legumes like lentils and chickpeas. These delicious and nutrient-packed options can be a tasty and creative alternative to a traditional pasta dish, perfect for diners seeking healthier selections. Whatever way you choose to try out this trend these flavor-packed dishes are a sure way to elevate your menus to the next level.
Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry
To make the zucchini noodles, start by trimming the ends off of the zucchini and then spiralize the zucchini using a spiralizer. If you don't have a spiralizer, you can also use a julienne peeler or a mandoline slicer to create thin, noodle-like strips. In a large skillet, heat some vegetable oil over high heat. Add your choice of protein (such as chicken, beef, or shrimp) and cook until it is browned on all sides. Remove the protein from the skillet and set it aside. Add the zucchini noodles to the skillet and stir-fry them until they are tender. Add the cooked protein back to the skillet along with your choice of vegetables (such as bell peppers, onions, and carrots). Stir-fry until the vegetables are tender. Season with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and other seasonings to taste.