Some of my favorite star spangled dishes to cook up for the Fourth, and all Summer long!
Read MoreIt has been SO HOT here in New Jersey, the thought of cooking anything at all is awful. This is the time of year when salads rein supreme in my house! But we don't sad, sorry salads. We do fun, delicious, this is totally a meal on its own salads! Including this delicious peach caprese! While most of the U.S. looks to Georgia for peaches, we grow some really nice ones here in Jersey too! And they've been gorgeous! So what better way to use 'em up than to add them to your favorite Summer side dish! Sliced tomatoes, peaches, fresh mozzarella cheese and fresh basil are all you need to make this perfect Summer plate.
Read MoreThis light and fresh Summer salad is quick and easy to make and can be tailored to any diet! Orzo, which are small pasta, cook up in just 4-5 minutes. Tossed with fresh Summer vegetables, extra virgin olive oil and a squeeze of lemon juice and you have lunch on the table! Top you salad with grilled shrimp or chicken (thanks to the folks at Traeger Grills for helping us out!), or swap in feta cheese for a vegetarian version. Vegan? Toss on some grilled tofu instead, or just add in beans like ceci. Gluten free? Swap the orzo for rice or quinoa! You get the idea.
Read MoreThis quick and easy parsley based sauce is the perfect Summer condiment! Enjoy it with chicken, steak, fish or veggies! I make mine with shallot, red wine vinegar, LOTS of parsley, some fresh chives (cause they grow in the garden!) and some capers - but feel free to switch things up and swap them out to suit your tastes! Try adding in mint for a lamb dish, or some tarragon with fish - whatever is fresh and easy will work here!
Read MoreThis simple summer dessert keeps everything outside on the grill! These are VERY easy to make and make a great presentation for guests! Serve them up with something sweet and cool - like whipped cream, ice cream or even some whipped ricotta!
Read MoreCheck out my super simple chicken marinade! This easy dish is PACKED with flavor, from anti-inflammatory spices, heart healthy tomato, and blood sugar regulating apple cider vinegar! Grilled to perfection this dish is sure to be a hit at your Memorial Day BBQ!
Read MoreWatch how to make a delicious salad using summer zucchini, fresh ricotta and pickled cherries with Chef Ed Crochet of Rat's Restaurant in Hamilton NJ! Set within Ground For Sculpture, this restaurant offers a beautiful dining experience. Try the salad at home or make a day trip to Rat's and check out the Grounds!
Read MoreTry this Jersey classic at your next BBQ or cookout! Hot dogs topped with onions, peppers and potatoes! Served on an Italian roll! This isn't your average dog, it's an Italian Hot Dog!
Read MoreTry something new! I invited Pope & Young Record Holding Hunter Rich Stollery to the Cucina to teach us a bit about hunting and show us his Buck Burger recipe! Seriously, give them a try!
Read MoreWe're celebrating the Red, White & Blue with this star spangled salad! Baby red, white and blue potatoes get roasted off with some fresh dill and rosemary. Then dressed in a light mixture of mustard, Greek yogurt, fresh herbs and olive oil! If heavy, milky potato salad is not your jam - this version definitely will be! The perfect side dish for ANY July 4th cook out or BBQ! Enjoy!
Read MoreChef Jesse Jones is back in the Cucina for Father's Day and showing us how to grill up the perfect strip steak for Dad! You'll never grill steaks the same way again!
Read MoreCheck out this fast, delicious way to cook your pizzas this summer! We're firing up the grill for Memorial Day. Join me in the Cucina as I show you how to make pizzas on the grill!
Read MoreCelebrate Fourth of July (or any BBQ) with these flavorful, juicy turkey burgers! Earthy spices and some healthy fats turn plain turkey meat into a serious cookout contender!
Read MoreWatch Cara & Chef Jesse Jones grill up a beautiful pork tenderloin for Dad! A simple way to impress, and feed, the whole family! Serve with your favorite side salad and dinner is ready! Happy Father's Day!
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