Taste of Home

Balsamic Vinaigrette

Kim Bussing — Fri, 07 Jun 2024 15:58:47 +0000

With five ingredients, this simple balsamic vinaigrette will dress up your salads. This quick dressing can even be used as a marinade for meat, fish and veggies. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Total Time

Prep/Total Time: 5 min.

Makes

1-1/2 cups

Ingredients

1 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 garlic cloves, minced
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper

Text Ingredients

Directions

Place all ingredients in a jar with a tight-fitting lid; shake well.

Nutrition Facts

2 tablespoons: 178 calories, 18g fat (2g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 178mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein.

The Best Ooni Pizza Ovens, Based on Our Expert Testing

Molly Allen — Fri, 07 Jun 2024 15:32:36 +0000

MOLLY ALLEN FOR TASTE OF HOME

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Best Overall

Ooni Koda 16

Pros:

Gas-powered for convenient use
Simple to set up
Reaches 950 degrees
Spacious 16-inch cooking area
Carbon steel exterior with folding legs

Cons:

Tools such as pizza peel and turner sold separately
L-shaped flame requires careful watch and turning

The Ooni Koda 16 is awarded the top spot for best Ooni pizza oven because of its versatility, durability and ease of use.

The sleek oven is constructed from carbon-coated steel, which plays a role in heat retention while the oven is on. That black powder coating on the exterior helps to protect the pizza oven from a variety of elements, making it very durable for years of outdoor use. It weighs just under 40 pounds, so it’s not the most portable of the Ooni ovens, but that extra weight is all worth it for the extra cooking space that comes with it. With 16 inches of cordierite pizza stone space and a wide opening, it’s easier to turn pizzas. It also means you can put larger cast iron pans in the oven, allowing you to cook everything from grilled veggies to meatballs or even nachos.

Once the oven is hooked up to a propane tank and the ignition switch on the side is turned on, it takes 20 minutes to preheat. That time brings the pizza stone and oven to about 800 degrees, though the oven can reach 950 degrees. I find that cooking pizzas between 750 to 850 degrees is my preferred temperature, which means I can cook pizzas in under two minutes. The oven has an L-shaped flame on the left side. It’s important to keep an eye and turn pizzas frequently in this oven to achieve even browning of the crust.

Thanks to its roomy design, I’ve found it simple to clean this oven. You can keep the oven on high to help cook off any burnt-on food remnants or use a pizza oven brush to help scrape things off. The stone is removable, so you can allow it to cool, take it out and easily clean out the back of the oven. While the Ooni Koda 16 is my top overall pick, the brand also makes the same oven in a smaller size. Our team also tested the Ooni Koda 12. It has all of the same features but comes with a smaller 12-inch cooking area at a lower price point.

The post The Best Ooni Pizza Ovens, Based on Our Expert Testing appeared first on Taste of Home.

The Best Hammocks for Backyard Lounging [Tested and Reviewed]

Katie Bandurski — Tue, 04 Jun 2024 20:26:21 +0000

KATIE BANDURSKI/TASTE OF HOME

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Best Overall

Suncreat Double Hammock with Stand

Pros:

Extra-large size is incredibly comfortable
Sturdy stand
Easy to assemble
Supports two people and a range of body shapes
Wide variety of patterns and styles

Cons:

Tricky to clean

There’s a lot to love about the Suncreat double hammock. It checks nearly all the boxes for what the best hammock should look like: It’s easy to assemble; there are over 18 prints, colors and patterns for any backyard style; and, perhaps most importantly, it’s incredibly relaxing.

As a self-proclaimed hammock connoisseur, this is the most comfortable hammock I’ve ever used. Its extra-large double capacity means I’m cradled in every directionwith room to spare! That added room makes shifting around on the hammock easy without fear of tipping over. Think of it like lying on a twin bed vs. a queen. The latter has way more space to spread out.

When this hammock arrived on my doorstep, it came in a large box. I could lift it fairly easily, but it would be seamless with two people. To assemble, you simply slide the stand pieces together until they snap into place, then hang the hammock net from the attached carabiner hooks. I find my hammock only fits on the first few rungs of the chain, which means as the net stretches with time, I’ll be able to pull it tighter and prolong its use.

Like most hammocks, we suggest taking your time getting into it; otherwise, you might slip or flip out. Ensure the hammock is on a completely flat surface, too. Once you’re in, it provides ample support and feels secure. I’ve laid in this hammock multiple times by myself and with my husband. While we don’t meet the advertised 475-pound capacity, I’m confident this hammock can hold diverse body types. (My husband is 6-foot and has no issues!)

The only downside? There’s no great way to clean the hammock bed. Since the rope is interwoven with the netting, you can’t separate the two to run the cover through the wash. I’ve had no issues so far, but I also bring the net into my garage after each use.

The post The Best Hammocks for Backyard Lounging [Tested and Reviewed] appeared first on Taste of Home.

Challah French Toast

Val Goodrich — Tue, 04 Jun 2024 19:33:28 +0000

Honey, vanilla extract, cinnamon, orange zest and cardamom come together for a warm and sweet blend of flavors in this French toast. Day-old Challah creates a crunchy exterior, while the bread stays soft and fluffy inside. It's a must-try spin on the classic breakfast meal. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Total Time

Prep/Total Time: 15 min.

Makes

4 servings

Ingredients

1-1/2 cups half-and-half cream or 2% milk
3 large eggs
2 tablespoons honey
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon grated orange zest
1/8 teaspoon ground cardamom
8 slices day-old challah bread (1 inch thick)
Optional toppings: Butter, maple syrup, fresh berries, whipped cream and confectioners' sugar

Text Ingredients

Directions

In a shallow dish, whisk together the first 8 ingredients. Preheat a greased griddle over medium heat.

Dip bread into egg mixture, letting it soak 5 seconds on each side. Cook on griddle until golden brown on both sides. Serve with toppings as desired.

Nutrition Facts

2 pieces: 499 calories, 21g fat (13g saturated fat), 218mg cholesterol, 806mg sodium, 59g carbohydrate (21g sugars, 2g fiber), 14g protein.

Stuffed French Toast

Val Goodrich — Tue, 04 Jun 2024 19:26:52 +0000

Cream cheese, confectioners’ sugar and vanilla extract get mixed together to create this French toast stuffing that's melt-in-your-mouth good. Placed between two soft pieces of challah, it’s a decadent breakfast that’s ready in a snap. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Total Time

Prep: 20 min. Cook: 10 min./batch

Makes

6 servings

Ingredients

1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup confectioners' sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 loaf (1 pound) challah or egg bread, cut into 12 slices
1-1/2 cups 2% milk
4 large eggs
2 teaspoons sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
4 tablespoons butter
Optional toppings: Butter, maple syrup, strawberries, whipped cream

Text Ingredients

Directions

In a small bowl, beat cream cheese, confectioners' sugar and vanilla until smooth. Spread over 6 slices bread to within 1/2 in. of edges. Top with remaining bread. In a shallow bowl, whisk milk, eggs, sugar, cinnamon and salt.

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Dip both sides of sandwiches in egg mixture, allowing each side to soak. Place three sandwiches in skillet; toast 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Repeat with remaining butter and sandwiches. Serve with toppings as desired.

Nutrition Facts

1 serving: 524 calories, 29g fat (15g saturated fat), 194mg cholesterol, 549mg sodium, 52g carbohydrate (16g sugars, 2g fiber), 14g protein.

Blackened Shrimp

Lindsay D. Mattison — Mon, 03 Jun 2024 13:07:24 +0000

With a nice amount of spice, this blackened shrimp makes for a great quick dinner. It's perfect served over rice. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Total Time

Prep/Total Time: 25 min.

Makes

4 servings

Ingredients

2 teaspoons paprika
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1-1/2 pounds uncooked shrimp (26-30 per pound), peeled and deveined
3 tablespoons butter
Lemon wedges

Text Ingredients

Directions

In a large bowl, combine the first 8 ingredients. Add shrimp; toss to coat.

In a large cast iron or heavy-duty skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add shrimp; cook and stir until shrimp turn pink and edges are browned. Serve with lemon wedges.

Nutrition Facts

about 10 shrimp: 230 calories, 11g fat (6g saturated fat), 230mg cholesterol, 567mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 1g fiber), 28g protein.

The 8 Best Kitchen and Dining Room Tables of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Emily Way — Thu, 30 May 2024 17:10:29 +0000

MARY HENN/TASTE OF HOME

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Best Overall Dining Table

Serif Extendable Dining Table

Pros:

Appealing mid-century design
Easy-to-follow directions
Sturdy, heavy materials
Extendable to 79 inches
Hidden tray for storing leaves when not in use
Scratch- and stain-resistant tabletop

Cons:

Pricey
Not 100% wood

Sturdy materials and a pleasant, simplistic design make the Serif extendable dining table our top pick for the best dining room tables overall. Apart from the clean, neutral lines, we appreciate the simple assembly and low-maintenance materials that make it a shoo-in for families. A choice of oak or walnut offers an extra layer of customization.

The table provides a smooth, flat surface thats stain- and scratch-resistant, so its great for a variety of family activities like cooking and crafting, says EditorMary Henn, who owns a Serif table. Despite the tabletop not boasting 100% wood, it’s still simple to maintain and doesn’t scratch easily. While you should only use wood-safe products for a deep clean, a wet rag should do the trick for cleaning up daily messes, notes Mary.

One of our favorite aspects of this unassuming wood table is that it truly works in almost any space. It looks just as at home with a spread of Pioneer Woman dishes as it does adorned with mid-century margarita glasses. Additionally, thanks to the extendable tabletop, it seats anywhere from four to eight people. Just install the hidden leaf for holidays and gatherings. We love that the leaves also nestle into a hidden tray beneath the tabletop when not in use, freeing up additional storage space.

Overall, we find it worth the slightly higher price point, especially if you’re looking for an option built to last through years of dinner parties and daily use.

Dimensions: 59 L x 34.5 W x 29.75 H | Seats: 4 to 8 | Material(s):Solid ash, ash veneer, engineered wood | Features:Extendable to 78.75, scratch- and stain-resistant top

The post The 8 Best Kitchen and Dining Room Tables of 2024, Tested and Reviewed appeared first on Taste of Home.

Oven-Fried Chicken Thighs

Lindsay D. Mattison — Tue, 28 May 2024 19:50:52 +0000

Taking a classic and making it oven-ready is what you'll love about this oven-fried chicken thighs recipe. Made with simple everyday ingredients and a crunchy seasoned panko blend, it's less messy and plenty flavorful. The perfect go-to meal! —Kizmet Byrd, Fort Wayne, Indiana

Total Time

Prep: 20 min. Bake: 1 hour.

Makes

6 servings

Ingredients

2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup panko bread crumbs
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cornstarch
2 tablespoons seafood seasoning
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
6 bone-in, skin on chicken thighs (2-1/4 pounds)
2 large eggs
1 tablespoon 2% milk

Text Ingredients

Directions

Preheat oven to 400°. Add butter and olive oil to 15x10x1-in. baking pan. Place in oven while preparing chicken.

In a shallow bowl, mix bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. In another shallow bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, seafood seasoning, garlic powder, salt and pepper. Whisk eggs and milk in a third shallow bowl. Dip chicken in flour to coat both sides; shake off excess. Dip in egg, then in crumb mixture, patting to help coating adhere.
Mix melted butter and olive oil in pan. Add chicken, skin side down. Bake 30 minutes. Turn and bake until a thermometer reads 170°-175°, 25-30 minutes. Remove to paper towels to drain before serving.

Nutrition Facts

1 piece: 360 calories, 23g fat (7g saturated fat), 154mg cholesterol, 312mg sodium, 11g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 27g protein.

Deep-Fried Chicken Legs

Lindsay D. Mattison — Tue, 28 May 2024 16:36:11 +0000

When you want the flavors of restaurant-worthy chicken but don't want a hassle making it, this easy deep-fried chicken legs recipe is the one for you. Perfectly seasoned with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic and onion powder, the chicken is dunked in a deep fryer, resulting in a crisp coating and juicy, tender chicken. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Total Time

Prep: 20 min. Cook: 15 min./batch

Makes

4 servings

Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons paprika
1-1/2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon pepper
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
1 cup 2% milk
8 chicken drumsticks
Oil for deep-fat frying

Text Ingredients

Directions

In a shallow bowl, combine the first 6 ingredients. In another shallow bowl, whisk eggs and milk. Place chicken in flour mixture, a few pieces at a time. Turn to coat, shaking off excess. Dip chicken in egg mixture. Coat again in flour mixture.

In an electric skillet or deep fryer, heat oil to 375°. Fry chicken, several pieces at a time, until chicken is golden brown and juices run clear, 7-8 minutes on each side. Drain on paper towels.

Nutrition Facts

2 chicken legs: 502 calories, 35g fat (5g saturated fat), 113mg cholesterol, 448mg sodium, 13g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 32g protein.

Presenting the Winners from Our Make-Ahead Magic Recipe Contest

Alyssa Asaro — Fri, 24 May 2024 13:32:59 +0000

Grand Prize: Sunrise Pancake Casserole

This unique sausage and pancake casserole combines the sweet and savory flavors of a traditional breakfast in a convenient, make-ahead dish. You can use homemade pancakes or thawed frozen pancakes for a quick and easy version. Shannon Buck, Woodinville, Alabama

Go to Recipe

Check out ourcontest pageto learn more about our contests and submit your own recipes for consideration.

The post Presenting the Winners from Our Make-Ahead Magic Recipe Contest appeared first on Taste of Home.

Mocha Shortbread Sandwich Cookies

Taste of Home Editors — Thu, 23 May 2024 16:09:21 +0000

This easy make-ahead recipe makes a deliciously tender mocha shortbread cookie with a rich chocolate buttercream filling. They require only four ingredients and can be frozen months in advance. —Adelaide Miller, Mill Hall, Pennsylvania

Total Time

Prep: 25 min. Bake: 10 min./batch

Makes

3 dozen

Updated: May. 24, 2024

Ingredients

2 teaspoons instant coffee granules
2 tablespoons hot water
1 cup butter, softened
2/3 cup confectioners' sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour
CHOCOLATE BUTTERCREAM FILLING:
1/2 cup butter, softened
1 cup confectioners' sugar
3 tablespoons baking cocoa
Dash salt
1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips, melted and cooled slightly

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°. In a small bowl, dissolve coffee granules in hot water. Cool to room temperature.

In a large bowl, cream butter and confectioners' sugar until light and fluffy, 5-7 minutes. Beat in coffee mixture. Gradually beat in flour.
Using a cookie press fitted with a disk of your choice, press dough 1 in. apart onto ungreased baking sheets. Bake until set (do not brown), 10-12 minutes. Remove from pans to wire racks to cool.
In a small bowl, beat butter, confectioners' sugar, cocoa and salt until light and fluffy, 3-5 minutes. Gradually beat in melted chocolate. Spread on bottoms of half the cookies; cover with remaining cookies.

Nutrition Facts

1 cookie: 127 calories, 8g fat (5g saturated fat), 20mg cholesterol, 66mg sodium, 13g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.

Can You Eat Peach Skin?

Jenna Urben — Mon, 20 May 2024 18:00:55 +0000

Peach season typically lasts from May through August. While there are different types of peaches, they’re allknown for their soft flesh, sweet flavor and juiciness. They can be enjoyed raw, cooked or baked. Most people peel peaches before baking, but good news: You don’t have to!

Psst: Here’s how to freeze peaches, so you can enjoy ripe, juicy peaches all year.

Is peach skin safe to eat?

Peach skin is perfectly safe to eat. When shopping for peaches, look for ones that are bright and vibrant in color. They should feel slightly soft and already have that incredible peachy aroma.

Like other fruits and vegetables, be sure to wash peaches before eating them due to trace amounts of pesticides that could be present on the skin. I suggest running water over the peaches and gently rubbing the skin. It’s best to use your hands when washing peaches since their skin is so delicate. Another option is to spritz with homemade produce wash before rinsing.

Pros and Cons of Eating Peach Skin

According to the American Heart Association, peach skin is a source of many antioxidants and vitamins. Peaches are a rich source of fiber, which improves digestion and helps you feel fuller for longer. Vitamin A is good for your eyesight and immune system. Vitamin C is great for improving skin and can also fight free radicals that cause cancer. Learn more about the health benefits of peaches.

The downside of eating peach skin is that it could contain pesticide residue, so it’s important to wash peaches before eating. Additionally, avoid eating peach skins if you have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or other digestive issues.

Ways to Eat Peach Skin

If you want to save time baking, don’t worry about peeling the peaches for popular desserts like peach cobbler or peach pie. For more unique ideas, toss skin-on peaches in a blender with peach nectar, yogurt and ice cubes for a creamy peach smoothie or infuse homemade simple syrup with peeled peach skins. Just remember to wash the fruit first!

Up Next: Here are the fruits and vegetables you shouldn’t peel.

The post Can You Eat Peach Skin? appeared first on Taste of Home.

Napoleon Grills vs. Weber: Who Makes the Better Grill?

Molly Allen — Mon, 20 May 2024 17:48:45 +0000

Shopping for a new grill for the backyard can be tricky with so many choices on the market. Two top options? Napoleon Grills vs. Weber Grills. But is one better than the other?

Weber and Napoleon Grills offer a wide range of gas and charcoal grills across various styles, designs and price points. Each is constructed from durable stainless steel, making for a long-lasting investment. If the competition feels a little too hot, we’re here to help explain the differences between Napoleon Grills and Weber Grills. Our insights are based on two weeks of firsthand testing from the Taste of Home Test Kitchen.

What’s the difference between Weber and Napoleon Grills?

Weber and Napoleon are at the top of my mind when shopping for the best grills, either charcoal or gas. Weber debuted the initial charcoal kettle grill in the 1950s and has continued to be known for its iconic shape and performance. Napoleon offers a similar kettle-style design for charcoal, but you can get started with grilling on their charcoal grill at a lower price point. The gas grills offered by both brands are constructed from stainless steel for sturdiness and durability, with each model offering a different number of burners and specific features. When it comes to warranty, Napoleon Grills has a longer warranty with 10-year and 15-year coverage, or even a lifetime warranty, depending on the grill type. Weber offers 5-year, 10-year and 12-year options for some models, depending on which type of grill you’re purchasing.

All About Napoleon Grills

Napoleon Grills makes a wide range of styles and designs across multiple fuel types. The brand has gas grills ranging in price and size, along with multiple charcoal grills and electric and portable grills. Both the charcoal grill and gas grill models are constructed from stainless steel, which helps with durability, sturdiness and heat retention.

In testing a Charcoal Pro grill from Napoleon, our test kitchen found it to be a top performer. The grill performed well and maintained temperature, but some additional coals needed to be added to keep up to the proper temperature on longer cooking sessions. Many of the Napoleon charcoal grills are designed with four legs and two wheels, so they can be moved if needed. The gas grills receive similar high marks thanks to their sturdy construction, handy shelves and storage elements and even heat performance. It is important to note, however, that the grill grates in many Napoleon Grill models were found to be incredibly heavy during testing, making them difficult to move.

Napoleon Grills range in price, with the baseline charcoal kettle grills starting at $199 and working up to $1700 for the larger gas grills with additional burners and accessories. Napoleon is well-known for its long-lasting build and a lifetime warranty on some grill models.

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Best Charcoal

Napoleon Pro

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Best Gas

Napoleon Rogue 425

All About Weber Grills

Weber Grills makes charcoal grills, gas grills and a wood pellet grill. The original Weber Kettle Grill, one of our top picks for the best charcoal grills, has been in production since the 1950s, continuing with its iconic dome shape. The Weber charcoal grills are constructed from steel with a porcelain coating to prevent rusting. Weber gas grills are built from steel and come in various models and sizes. Our test kitchen loves the Weber Genesis for its steakhouse-quality cook on steaks and chicken. The test kitchen has also tested multiple 22-inch Weber kettle grills, each offering excellent heat retention and ease of use paired with tasty char-grilled flavor on foods pulled off the grill.

Weber Grills range in pricing, with the original kettle grill being the most-approachable at just over $200 and other models going up in price with added features such as side arm tables, additional legs and wheels, color customizations and more. Weber gas grills range widely from the test kitchen-approved three-burner Spirit II E-210 gas grill at $449 all the way up to much larger gas grills with all the bells and whistles at $5000. Weber grills continuously receive top reviews thanks to their long-lasting construction, high heat performance and extensive warranties.

Our Favorite Weber Grills

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Best Charcoal

Weber Performer Charcoal Grill

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Best Gas

Weber Genesis E-325 Gas Grill

FAQ

Is Napoleon better than Weber?

Some Napoleon grills may be better for some shopper’s needs than Weber’s, but it all depends on the specific desired size, style and features. Many Napoleon gas grill designs may offer more power. Napoleon also offers a more generous warranty program.

Are Napoleon grills high quality?

Napoleon grills are high-quality thanks to their stainless steel construction, stability, durability and clever design components. They also come with a generous 10-year, 15-year or lifetime warranty depending on the grill type.

What is the life expectancy of a Weber gas grill?

Weber grills have been known to last for years, many up to 10 to 15 years and beyond. The life expectancy of the grill is based on how well it is stored, kept and cleaned. A grill brush will be your best friend in keeping your Weber grill in tip-top shape.

The Bottom Line

It’s difficult to name a tried and true winner of Napoleon Grills vs. Weber because each has their strengths. Weber has long been known for its iconic design of the original charcoal kettle grill, and you can upgrade your kettle grill by choosing from various colors and accessories. Napoleon is known for excellent heat output and longevity, which can be most helpful for those looking for gas grills. Weber’s Genesis gas grill is one of our Test Kitchen’s top picks. Ultimately, it all boils down to the design, style and features you like best.

Looking for more grilling information? Find the best gifts for the griller in your life.

The post Napoleon Grills vs. Weber: Who Makes the Better Grill? appeared first on Taste of Home.

The Best Weber Grills [Tested and Reviewed]

Molly Allen — Mon, 20 May 2024 17:24:23 +0000

TASTE OF HOME

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Best Charcoal

Weber Performer Charcoal Grill

Pros:

Easy to assemble and use
Four-wheeled sturdy design
Sturdy folding side table for prep and holding
Lid cradle for easy grill grate access
Excellent heat performance and retention

Cons:

A char basket for indirect cooking would be a helpful addition

While the Original Kettle Grill from Weber is a tried and true classic, the Performer Charcoal Grill is the ultimate upgrade, making charcoal grilling that much better. Assembly on this grill is quick and simple without too many parts to put together. It has the classic kettle shape with a twist, giving you very large, sturdy wheels on four legs, along with a folding side table for prepping or holding food, an attached side lid holder and three hooks for hanging cooking tools and grilling accessories within easy reach.

This charcoal grill has a built-in thermometer with simple temperature adjustments made possible by opening and closing the top and lower vents. While additional coals didn’t need to be added during the Test Kitchen’s cooking tests making a whole chicken, cooking a steak and cooking baby back ribs, it can be easily done thanks to the hinged grates and removable center grate. The grill produced a nice sear on both sides of a steak, beautiful grill marks on a golden brown chicken and excellent tender baby back ribs.

After cooking, the grill grates can easily be cleaned with a grill brush and won’t be scratched by the bristles.

The post The Best Weber Grills [Tested and Reviewed] appeared first on Taste of Home.

Overnight Butternut & Bacon Strata

Taste of Home Editors — Fri, 17 May 2024 19:24:35 +0000

I created this overnight strata for a bridal brunch and even the hairdressers and make-up artists were begging me for the recipe! It's the perfect blend of savory, sweet and salty. You could use another variety of winter squash like acorn or delicata. —Pamela Gelsomini, Wrentham, Massachusetts

Total Time

Prep: 1 hour + chilling Bake: 50 min.

Makes

12 servings

Updated: May. 17, 2024

Ingredients

3/4 pound maple-flavored bacon strips
1 loaf (16 ounces) ciabatta bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
1/4 cup butter
1 large onion, chopped
6 garlic cloves, minced
3 cups cubed peeled butternut squash (1/2-inch cubes)
1-1/2 teaspoons salt, divided
1 teaspoon pepper, divided
1/2 cup water
1/4 cup chopped fresh sage
1-1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup (4 ounces) crumbled Gorgonzola cheese
9 large eggs, lightly beaten
1-1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
1 cup 2% milk
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
FRIED SAGE LEAVES:
1/4 cup butter
1/2 cup fresh sage leaves
Maple syrup

Directions

Preheat oven to 400°. Arrange bacon strips in a single layer in a 15x10x1-in. baking pan. Bake until crisp, 15-18 minutes. Remove bacon to paper towels to drain, reserving drippings in pan. Add bread cubes to dripping; toss to coat. Bake until lightly browned, 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally.

In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add onion; cook and stir until softened, 3-5 minutes. Add garlic; cook and stir 1 minute longer. Stir in squash, 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Cook and stir until squash starts to soften, 6-8 minutes. Add 1/2 cup of water; cover and cook until squash is tender, 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in sage.
Arrange bread cubes in a greased 13x9-in. baking dish. Top with bacon and squash mixture; toss gently to combine. Sprinkle with cheddar and Gorgonzola. Whisk eggs, cream, milk, Italian seasoning, remaining 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper; slowly pour over bread mixture. Cover and refrigerate overnight.
Remove from the refrigerator 30 minutes before baking. Preheat oven to 350°. Bake, uncovered, until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean, 50-55 minutes.
Meanwhile, in a small skillet melt butter over medium-high heat. Stir until butter turns light brown, skim off foam. Add sage leaves, fry until just crispy, 1-2 minutes. Remove sage to paper towels to drain. Serve strata with fried sage and maple syrup.

Nutrition Facts

1 piece: 547 calories, 39g fat (19g saturated fat), 226mg cholesterol, 988mg sodium, 34g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 3g fiber), 19g protein.

Breakfast Empanadas

Taste of Home Editors — Fri, 17 May 2024 19:51:00 +0000

These breakfast empanadas are one of my family's favorites. I freeze them to enjoy at a later date. If you prefer a spicy filling, you can add chopped jalapeños when cooking the eggs. —Marina Castle Kelley, Canyon Country, California

Total Time

Prep: 45 min. + chilling Cook: 5 min./batch

Makes

2-1/2 dozen

Updated: May. 17, 2024

Ingredients

1/2 pound fresh chorizo or bulk pork sausage
9 large eggs, divided
2 cups frozen shredded hash brown potatoes
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
3 packages (14 ounces each) frozen empanada dough discs, thawed
Oil for deep-fat frying
Optional: Salsa verde, sour cream and sliced avocado

Directions

In a large skillet, cook chorizo over medium heat until cooked through, 6-8 minutes, breaking into crumbles; drain. Set aside. Return pan to stove.

In a large bowl, whisk 8 eggs. Add to skillet; cook and stir over medium heat until eggs are thickened and no liquid egg remains. Transfer to a large bowl. Stir in chorizo, hash browns, cheeses, salt, pepper and garlic powder.
Beat remaining egg, brush over edges of dough discs. Place 3 tablespoons filling on 1 side of each disc. Fold dough over filling. Pinch edges and press to seal. Refrigerate for 30 minutes.
In an electric skillet or deep-fat fryer, heat oil to 375°. Fry empanadas, a few at a time, until golden brown, 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally. Drain on paper towels. If desired sprinkle with additional salt. If desired, serve with salsa verde, sour cream and avocado.

Nutrition Facts

1 empanada: 218 calories, 12g fat (4g saturated fat), 67mg cholesterol, 304mg sodium, 21g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 1g fiber), 9g protein.

Cold Weather Braised Beef

Taste of Home Editors — Fri, 17 May 2024 19:41:59 +0000

This make-ahead braised beef recipe is so convenient. I prepare the ingredients, and just before baking, I pop them in the fridge overnight. The next day, I let it bake while spending time with my family. The aroma of the beef while it's cooking will make your mouth water. —Vicki Christiansen, Elkhorn, Wisconsin

Total Time

Prep: 35 min. Bake: 2-1/2 hours

Makes

8 servings

Updated: May. 24, 2024

Ingredients

3 tablespoons butter
1 pound sliced fresh mushrooms
3 medium onions, halved and thinly sliced
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 pounds boneless beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
2-1/2 cups water, divided
2 cups beef broth
1/2 cup dry red wine
3 tablespoons reduced-sodium soy sauce
3 tablespoons cornstarch
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon coarsely ground pepper
Hot cooked mashed potatoes or noodles

Directions

Preheat oven to 325°. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add mushrooms and onions; cook and stir until softened, 5-7 minutes. Add garlic; cook and stir 1 minute longer. Spoon mixture into a greased 13x9-in. baking dish, leaving drippings in skillet.

In the same skillet over medium heat, brown beef in batches, adding more butter if necessary. Spoon browned beef over mushroom mixture in baking dish.
Add 2 cups water, broth, wine and soy sauce to skillet; increase heat to medium-high. Cook 1 minute, stirring to loosen browned bits from pan. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and remaining 1/2 cup water until smooth. Gradually whisk into broth mixture. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly; cook and stir until slightly thickened, 1-2 minutes. Stir in salt and pepper. Pour over beef in baking dish.
Cover and bake until beef is almost tender, 2 hours. Uncover and bake until beef is tender, 30-35 minutes. Serve over mashed potatoes or noodles.

Nutrition Facts

1 cup: 284 calories, 15g fat (7g saturated fat), 85mg cholesterol, 656mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 1g fiber), 25g protein.

Grab-and-Go Freezer Cheesecakes

Taste of Home Editors — Fri, 17 May 2024 20:30:49 +0000

I love the elegant serving style of individual cheesecakes. I never have to worry if surprise guests stop by because these can be pulled from the freezer in a flash. They’re also a blue ribbon-winner at our local county fair! —Kristyne Mcdougle Walter, Lorain, Ohio

Total Time

Prep: 20 min. + freezing

Makes

2 dozen

Updated: May. 17, 2024

Ingredients

1 package (8.8 ounces) Biscoff cookies
6 tablespoons butter, melted
1 tablespoon sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
FILLING:
12 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup sour cream
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 carton (8 ounces) frozen whipped topping, thawed (3 cups)
Sweetened whipped cream, optional

Directions

Pulse cookies in a food processor until fine crumbs form. Add butter, sugar and salt; pulse just until combined. Press mixture gently onto bottoms of 24 foil-lined muffin cups.

For filling, beat cream cheese in a large bowl until smooth. Add sugar, sour cream, lemon juice and vanilla. Fold in whipped topping. Spoon over crusts; freeze until firm, at least 6 hours.
Transfer to freezer containers; return to freezer. To use, thaw in refrigerator for thirty minutes before serving. If desired, top with whipped cream and additional cookies.

Nutrition Facts

1 cheesecake: 181 calories, 12g fat (8g saturated fat), 25mg cholesterol, 132mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (12g sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.

Strawberry Lemonade Gelatin

Taste of Home Editors — Fri, 17 May 2024 20:40:44 +0000

Strawberry lemonade always reminds me of summer. This quick dessert is easy to put together and always a crowd-pleaser. —Shelly Bevington, Hermiston, Oregon

Total Time

Prep: 15 min. + chilling

Makes

12 servings

Updated: May. 17, 2024

Ingredients

1-1/2 cups boiling water
1 package (6 ounces) strawberry gelatin
1 can (12 ounces) frozen lemonade concentrate, thawed
1 can (21 ounces) strawberry pie filling
1 cup cold whole milk
1 package (3.4 ounces) instant lemon pudding mix
1 carton (8 ounces) frozen whipped topping, thawed (3 cups)

Directions

In a large bowl add boiling water to gelatin; stir 2 minutes to completely dissolve. Stir in lemonade concentrate and pie filling. Pour into greased 13x9-in. dish. Refrigerate until thickened, about 1 hour.

In a large bowl, whisk milk and pudding mix 2 minutes. Let stand until soft-set, about 2 minutes. Fold in whipped topping; spread over gelatin. Cover and refrigerate until firm.

Nutrition Facts

1 piece: 272 calories, 4g fat (4g saturated fat), 2mg cholesterol, 160mg sodium, 56g carbohydrate (49g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein.

Green Chile Butternut Squash Soup

Taste of Home Editors — Fri, 17 May 2024 20:34:32 +0000

This Mexican-inspired butternut squash soup is made in a slow cooker. I like to cook it overnight, blend it in the morning and store it in the refrigerator. All I have to do when I get home is heat it up. —Colleen Delawder, Herndon, Virginia

Total Time

Prep: 15 min. Cook: 6 hours

Makes

8 servings (2 quarts)

Updated: May. 24, 2024

Ingredients

6 cups cubed peeled butternut squash
3 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
1 can (10 ounces) green enchilada sauce
1 tablespoon chili powder
1-1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1 cup heavy whipping cream
Optional: crispy tortilla strips, sliced jalapeno pepper and fresh cilantro leaves

Directions

Combine the first 11 ingredients into a 6-qt. slow cooker. Cook, covered, on low until vegetables are soft, 6-7 hours.

Puree soup using an immersion blender. Or, cool slightly and puree soup in batches in a blender; return to slow cooker. Stir in heavy cream; heat through. If desired, top with crispy tortilla strips, sliced jalapeno, cilantro leaves and sprinkle with additional chili powder.

Nutrition Facts

1 cup: 185 calories, 12g fat (7g saturated fat), 34mg cholesterol, 539mg sodium, 19g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 3g fiber), 4g protein.

Merry Mint Christmas Cheesecake

Taste of Home Editors — Fri, 17 May 2024 20:27:28 +0000

Instead of baking cookies for Christmas gifts, I bake cheesecakes! I usually bake this mint cheesecake a few weeks in advance and store it in the freezer. It can also be baked a couple of days ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. —Sue Gronholz, Beaver Dam, Wisconsin

Total Time

Prep: 45 min. Bake: 1 hour 10 min. + chilling

Makes

16 servings

Updated: May. 24, 2024

Ingredients

15 Oreo cookies, finely crushed
1 tablespoon sugar
2 tablespoons butter, melted
FILLING:
1 cup white baking chips, divided
3/4 cup semisweet chocolate chips
4 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened
1-1/3 cups sugar
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons heavy whipping cream
4 large eggs, room temperature, lightly beaten
1 teaspoon mint extract, divided
2 to 3 drops red food coloring
2 to 3 drops green food coloring
GANACHE:
1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
Optional: Whipped cream and crushed red and green mint candies

Directions

Preheat oven to 325°. In a small bowl, combine cookie crumbs and sugar; stir in butter. Press onto the bottom of a greased 9-inch springform pan; set aside.

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt 1/2 cup vanilla chips; set aside. In another microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate chips; set aside.
In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, flour and whipping cream until smooth. Add eggs; beat on low just until combined. Divide batter into three bowls. (About 2 cups batter per bowl.)
To the first bowl, stir in melted vanilla chips, 1/2 tsp. mint extract and red food coloring; pour over crust. Place pan on a double thickness of foil; securely wrap foil around pan. Place springform pan in a large baking pan. Fill larger pan with water to a depth of 1 inch. Bake 20 minutes.
Meanwhile, stir melted chocolate chips into second bowl of reserved batter. Carefully spoon chocolate layer over red layer. Bake 20 minutes longer.
Meanwhile, melt remaining 1/2 cup vanilla chips; cool slightly. Stir into third bowl of reserved batter. Stir in green food coloring and remaining 1/2 teaspoon mint extract. Carefully spoon green layer over chocolate layer. Bake until center is almost set, 30-40 minutes longer.
Remove springform pan from water bath. Cool on a wire rack 10 minutes. Carefully run a knife around edge of pan to loosen. Cool 1 hour longer. Refrigerate overnight; remove sides of pan.
In a small microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate chips and whipping cream. Let stand until slightly thickened. Spread over top of cheesecake. Refrigerate until ready to serve. If desired, garnish with whipped cream and crushed mint candies.

Nutrition Facts

1 piece: 491 calories, 34g fat (19g saturated fat), 116mg cholesterol, 262mg sodium, 44g carbohydrate (38g sugars, 1g fiber), 7g protein.

Overnight Apricot Pecan Coffee Cake

Taste of Home Editors — Fri, 17 May 2024 19:22:05 +0000

I whip up this delightful apricot and pecan coffee cake the night before and pop it in the oven when I get up. The house smells lovely and the cake rises perfectly. Use walnuts instead of pecans if you prefer. —Trisha Kruse, Eagle, Idaho

Total Time

Prep: 30 min. + chilling Bake: 35 min.

Makes

15 servings

Updated: May. 24, 2024

Ingredients

1 cup sugar
3/4 cup butter, softened
2 large eggs, room temperature
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup sour cream
3/4 cup chopped dried apricots
1 cup packed brown sugar
3/4 cup chopped pecans, toasted
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

Directions

In a large bowl, cream sugar and butter until light and fluffy, 5-7 minutes. Add eggs, 1 at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in vanilla. In another bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt; add to creamed mixture alternately with sour cream, beating well after each addition.

Spread half of batter into a greased and floured 13x9-in baking dish. Sprinkle with apricots. Combine brown sugar, pecans and ginger; sprinkle half over apricots. Drop remaining batter by tablespoonfuls over filling; spread gently with a spatula to cover filling. Sprinkle with remaining brown sugar mixture. Cover and refrigerate overnight.
Remove from refrigerator 30 minutes before baking. Preheat oven to 350°. Bake, uncovered, until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean, 35-40 minutes. Serve warm.

Nutrition Facts

1 piece: 347 calories, 17g fat (8g saturated fat), 60mg cholesterol, 292mg sodium, 46g carbohydrate (32g sugars, 1g fiber), 4g protein.

Baked Chorizo Corn Dip

Taste of Home Editors — Fri, 17 May 2024 19:32:41 +0000

This spicy chorizo corn dip recipe is a family favorite! It's a fresh side for any dinner, holiday party or ball game at home! You can keep it on hand in your freezer and then heat it just before serving. —Cindy Nerat, Menominee, Michigan

Total Time

Prep: 20 min. Bake: 30 min.

Makes

9 cups

Updated: May. 24, 2024

Ingredients

1 pound fresh chorizo or spicy bulk pork sausage
2 cans (15-1/4 ounces each) whole kernel corn, drained
1/2 cup finely chopped sweet red pepper
1 cup finely chopped seeded jalapeno pepper (about 4 peppers)
6 green onions, chopped
1 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1-1/2 teaspoons chili powder
1 garlic clove, minced
3 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Tortilla chips

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°. In a large skillet, cook chorizo over medium heat until cooked through, 6-8 minutes, breaking into crumbles; drain.

In a large bowl, combine cooked chorizo and the next 9 ingredients. Transfer to an ungreased 10-in. cast-iron skillet or 9x13-in. baking dish.
Bake until heated through, 30-35 minutes. Serve warm with tortilla chips.

Nutrition Facts

1/4 cup: 141 calories, 12g fat (4g saturated fat), 23mg cholesterol, 334mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 6g protein.

Sunrise Pancake Casserole

Taste of Home Editors — Fri, 17 May 2024 19:28:08 +0000

Total Time

Prep: 20 min. + chilling Bake: 35 min.

Makes

8 servings

Updated: May. 17, 2024

Ingredients

1 pound spicy bulk pork sausage
18 pancakes, cut into 1-inch pieces (about 8 cups)
8 large eggs
2 cups 2% milk
1/2 cup maple syrup
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Chopped green onions

Directions

In a large skillet, cook pork over medium heat until no longer pink, 6-8 minutes, breaking into crumbles; drain.

In a greased 13x9-in. baking dish, layer half the pancake pieces and sausage; repeat layers. In a large bowl, whisk eggs, milk, maple syrup, salt and pepper. Pour over pancakes. Sprinkle with cheese. Cover and refrigerate 8 hours or overnight.
Remove from refrigerator 30 minutes before baking. Preheat oven to 350°. Bake, uncovered, until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean, 35-40 minutes. Let stand 5 minutes serving. If desired, sprinkle with green onions and serve with additional maple syrup.

Nutrition Facts

1-3/4 cups: 559 calories, 29g fat (10g saturated fat), 252mg cholesterol, 1102mg sodium, 52g carbohydrate (23g sugars, 1g fiber), 22g protein.

Minty Chocolate Cream Puffs

Taste of Home Editors — Fri, 17 May 2024 20:36:26 +0000

These festive little treats are minty, chocolatey and convenient. The night before serving, move them from the freezer to the fridge to thaw. —Jolene Martinelli, Fremont, New Hampshire

Total Time

Prep: 45 min. + chilling Bake: 30 min.

Makes

3 dozen

Updated: May. 24, 2024

Ingredients

2 cups heavy whipping cream
1/4 cup ground mocha mint coffee
1 cup water
1/2 cup butter
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup baking cocoa
1 tablespoon sugar
4 large eggs, room temperature
1/4 cup confectioners' sugar
4 drops green food coloring, optional

Directions

Pour cream into a small saucepan. Place coffee on a double thickness of cheesecloth. Gather corners of cloth to enclose; tie securely with string. Add to cream. Warm mixture over medium-low heat (do not boil), about 5 minutes. Remove from the heat. Transfer cream and coffee to a large mixing bowl. Cover and refrigerate 8 hours or overnight.

Preheat oven to 400°. In a small saucepan, bring water, butter and salt to a rolling boil. Combine flour, cocoa and sugar; add flour mixture all at once and beat until blended. Cook over medium heat, stirring vigorously until mixture pulls away from sides of pan and forms a ball. Remove from heat; let stand 5 minutes.
Add eggs, 1 at a time, beating well after each addition until smooth. Continue beating until mixture is smooth and shiny.
Drop dough by tablespoonfuls 1 in. apart onto parchment-lined baking sheets or pipe dough using a 1/2-inch round pastry tip. Bake until puffed and very firm, 30-35 minutes. Pierce side of each puff with tip of a knife. Cool on wire rack. Split puffs open. Pull out and discard soft dough from inside tops and bottoms.
Remove and discard coffee from cream. Beat cream until it begins to thicken. Add confectioners' sugar; beat until soft peaks form. If desired, beat in food coloring. Fill cream puffs with whipped cream just before serving; replace tops.

Nutrition Facts

1 cream puff: 95 calories, 8g fat (5g saturated fat), 43mg cholesterol, 65mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.

Popcorn Shrimp

Risa Lichtman — Fri, 17 May 2024 22:58:48 +0000

You'll really taste the herby, garlicky seasoning in the breading of these popcorn shrimps. Pair it with your favorite dipping sauce and a side of fries or salad for a complete meal. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Total Time

Prep: 25 min. Cook: 5 min./batch

Makes

4 servings

Ingredients

1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
2 large eggs
1/2 cup 2% milk
1 cup dry bread crumbs
1 tablespoon dried parsley flakes
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 pound uncooked shrimp (41-50 per pound), peeled and deveined
Oil for deep-fat frying

Text Ingredients

Directions

In a shallow bowl, mix flour, salt and pepper. In a separate shallow bowl, whisk eggs and milk. Combine bread crumbs, parsley and garlic powder in a third shallow bowl. Dip shrimp in flour to coat both sides; shake off excess. Dip in egg mixture, then in bread crumbs, patting to help adhere.

In an electric skillet or deep-fat fryer, heat oil to 375°. Fry shrimp in batches until golden brown, 2-3 minutes. Drain on paper towels.

Nutrition Facts

about 11 shrimp: 302 calories, 15g fat (2g saturated fat), 165mg cholesterol, 364mg sodium, 18g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 23g protein.

Steamed Shrimp

Lindsay D. Mattison — Tue, 04 Jun 2024 15:33:21 +0000

These simple steamed shrimp cook in just 20 minutes and retain a lemon garlic flavor. If you're serving the shrimp cold, drop them in an ice bath after steaming. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Total Time

Prep/Total Time: 20 min.

Makes

4 servings

Ingredients

1 small lemon, sliced
1 small onion, sliced
3 garlic cloves, smashed
2 bay leaves
1-1/2 pounds uncooked shell-on shrimp (26-30 per pound)
Optional: seafood cocktail sauce and lemon wedges

Text Ingredients

Directions

Place lemon, onion, garlic and bay leaves in pan; add 1-in. water. Place steamer basket over water, making sure water is not touching bottom of basket. Bring water to a boil.

Add shrimp. Reduce heat to maintain a simmer; steam, covered, until shrimp just turn pink, 3-5 minutes. Serve hot or, if desired, immediately drop shrimp into bowl of ice water; drain.

Nutrition Facts

4 ounces cooked shrimp: 144 calories, 2g fat (0 saturated fat), 207mg cholesterol, 201mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 28g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 4 lean meat.

Summer Guide to Grilling Beef

Adila Esbhani — Thu, 16 May 2024 13:35:21 +0000

The post Summer Guide to Grilling Beef appeared first on Taste of Home.

Harry & David Review: Are These Gourmet Gifts Worth the Hype?

Katie Bandurski — Wed, 15 May 2024 23:05:25 +0000

When it comes to ordering a food gifteither for yourself or a loved onethe choices are pretty overwhelming. From cheese and snacks to the classic fruit delivery or chocolate gift basket, there are hundreds of products to sift through. But when it comes to food care packages, there’s one retailer with a storied history: Harry & David.

At Taste of Home, we’ve spent countless hours testing gift baskets, and time after time, we’ve seen strong results from iconic food gift brand, Harry & David. Heres what you need to know before placing an order.

What Is Harry & David?

Harry & David is a mail-order gifting platform thats been sending fresh fruit and food gifts since 1934. While primarily based online, the brand has a flagship store in Medford, Oregon.

You can find about anything at Harry & Davidfrom sweet treats to dinner spreads. They also offer non-consumables, like flowers, plants and homewares. Some of the brands most iconic offerings are their Royal pears and Moose Munch popcorn.

In addition to the official Harry & David website, you can find select gifts on Amazon.

How We Tested Harry & David

To date, our team has tested over a dozen Harry & David products in nearly every category, including evergreen and seasonal items. We evaluated each gift on the delivery experience, packaging, quality and taste. Theres no denying these gifts are pricey, so we keep value top of mind, too.

Gift Baskets and Boxes

This is the crme de la crme of Harry & David, and we mean it when we say theres a food gift basket for every occasion. Heading to a retirement party? Send em off in style with an assortment of meats, cheese and munchies. Celebrating an engagement or housewarming? Dont forget the wine! The brand has plenty of pick-me-ups for more somber occasions that require a sympathy gift basket, too.

One of our favorite picks is the massive Chest of Chocolates with Wine. This behemoth of sweets showcases a little bit of everything, including Moose Munch popcorn, chocolate decadence cake, candies galore and a bottle of red blend wine.

The chest of chocolates and wine were packaged very carefullysome of the best packaging I’ve seen when it comes to keeping items safe and intact, shares Shopping Editor Mary Henn. Contents seem a bit smaller in person than what’s pictured online, but there’s a good variety of chocolates.

Speaking of Moose Munch, this stuff will keep you coming back for more. Product Testing Manager Annamarie Higley tried a holiday drum of Moose Munch and appreciated the deviation from the typical salty snack. The popcorn was fresh and not at all chewy or stale, despite shipping and intense toppings, Annamarie says. It was indulgent and rich, but still, I couldnt help myself from going back for handful after handful. Its easily the best popcorn Ive ever eaten.

Luckily, the flavors we testedmilk chocolate, dark chocolate and classic caramelare available year-round in a cheery Moose Munch Trio gift box.

MARY HENN/TASTE OF HOME (2)

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Chest of Chocolates with Wine

VIA MERCHANT

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Moose Munch Trio

Fruit

The pears that started it all! Harry & David are synonymous with their royal pears. Youll see different varieties available depending on what time of year youre shopping, but the most famous is the Royal Riviera variety available during the holiday season.

Culinary Producer Sarah Tramontewas impressed by her box of Royal Riviera Christmas pears. I was pleasantly surprised by the quality of these pears, they were delicious, and the packaging kept them in great condition, Sarah says. Pears can be hard to find in stores with little blemishes, but these were perfect.

Beyond pears, youll find plenty of other fruit gift baskets and monthly fruit subscriptions. Shopping Editor Emily Way reviewed the Fruit and Cheese Club and was blown away by the variety.

My March shipment came with six huge HoneyBells accompanied by an eight-ounce slab of Wood River Creamery cheddar gruyere, Emily says. As someone notoriously picky about her oranges, I was super impressed with the quality of the produce. The HoneyBell citruses were big, juicy and offered just the right touch of sweetness. The cheddar gruyre was creamy and offered a pleasant sharpness that contrasted well with the HoneyBells mild flavor.

VIA MERCHANT

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Royal Verano Pears

EMILY WAY/TASTE OF HOME (2)

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Fruit and Cheese Club

Flowers and Plants

Harry & Davids parent company is 1-800 Flowers, so I had high expectations when testing the Bulb of the Month Club.

I received Aprils tulip and hyacinth garden. It arrived, quite literally, as a pot of dirt. But after watering and a few days in a sunny spot, shoots started to emerge. With a little TLC, this arrangement came to life (rather than wilting and decaying like fresh flowers do). Plus, after the blooms are mature, I can plant them in my garden for enjoyment next year.

Beyond the blub club, you can find a number of succulents and plant gifts, as well as fresh bouquets fulfilled by 1-800 Flowers.

KATIE BANDURSKI/TASTE OF HOME (2)

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Bulb of the Month Club

Bakery

It should come as no surprise that Harry & David offers tasty baked goods, too. After all, their sister company, Cheryl’s Cookies, is an editor favorite.

Emily sampled the Signature Bakery Assortment, which is overflowing with cakes, baklava, galettes, cookies and a cinnamon swirl. “Everything looks fresh, and upon opening the box it smelled absolutely lovely, like a local bakery,” Emily says of the delivery experience. “Excellent varietytheres a little something for everyone whether youre a fan of fruity cookies and cakes or prefer chocolate. My husband and I went through about half the treats after a week. The good thing is that everything freezes well, so thats an option if your giftee cant work their way through it quickly enough (though that shouldnt be a problemeverything is delicious!)”

Her favorite treat? The lemon poppyseed cake. “Absolutely beautiful! The cake was in pristine condition, and the icing on top looked great even after shipping. The poppy seeds were evenly distributed, too. The whole thing was lovely.”

During the holiday season, we also gave the brand’s Christmas cookie delivery high marks. Associate Product Tester Dylan Fischer gave the Christmas Cookie Collection a respectable rating, noting, “While it’s slightly on the pricier side, you are receiving a solid amount of (mostly) well-made cookies in a very slick, festive box. Makes for a great gift!”

EMILY WAY/TASTE OF HOME (2)

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Signature Bakery Assortment

Gourmet Food

If theres one category from Harry & David were not entirely sold on, its the Gourmet Foods section. While a solid option for ordering specialty holiday meals, our testing found their general meat delivery disappointing.

Reviewer Allison Robicelli, who is a former professional chef, found that the Classic Fine Meats Collection left a lot to be desired. Her package included teriyaki chicken breasts, bacon-wrapped pork chops, lamb porterhouses and top sirloin beef filets.

These were fine. That’s allfine, Allison says of the beef and pork. Not exceptionally dry nor juicy, neither bland nor flavorful. She found the chicken on par with grocery store qualitythat’s to say, not worth the elevated price point. The lamb, however, was a bright spot. I don’t eat lamb often, so it was nice to get these in a package. Was it the best lamb I’ve ever had? Not by a long shot. But it was still flavorful and cooked up nice.

While the meat was a miss, we also tested the Pick Four Relishes set and Pick Two Coffees bundle. Both gifts delivered.

The relishes arrived in a box containing what resembles a drink holder from a fast food place, and each was wrapped in bubble wrap for security. Really great packaging, zero breakage, says Emily. While a bit pricey, the relishes are yummy and the portions are generous. The Original Pepper & Onion Relish is delicious. Id honestly put this on everything: sandwiches, charcuterie, toast, crackers. Really nice, light, balanced flavor.

Mary had similar things to say about her coffee box, noting, Good flavored coffee. I like my coffee strong and flavorful and this coffee did the trick. Certainly not craft beans, but a step above grocery store brands. She tried the Moose Munch Milk Chocolate Caramel Ground Coffee and Vanilla Crme Brule Coffee Beans. These coffee flavors make me think of the holidays, and the price seems fairly cheap for gourmet coffee.

EMILY WAY/TASTE OF HOME (2)

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Pick Four Relishes

MARY HENN/TASTE OF HOME (2)

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Pick Two Coffees

FAQ

Do Harry & David make good wine?

In our experience, yes! Mary tried the 2020 Royal Crest Red blend while testing the chocolate chest. “It’s a versatile crowd-pleaser,” she says. “It pairs well with a variety of foods, especially heavier foods and meats.” While not the most expensive bottle you can buy, it’s on par (if not a step above) what you can find in the grocery stores.

Are Harry & David gift baskets worth it?

If the packaging and delivery experience is important to you, yes. From a value perspective, you could likely order similar items on DoorDash from a gourmet grocery store and send them to your recipient for cheaper. But Harry & David goes a step beyond and ensures a seamless packaging experience that makes these gifts stand out. Plus, many of our favorite food items, like Moose Munch and the Royal Riveria pears, are exclusive to the brand.

Why You Should Trust Us

As Senior Shopping Editor, it is quite literally my job to find the best gifts on the market. I have over eight years of experience in the home and food industry, with four of those years heavily focused on giftable products. From coffee subscriptions to soup care packages and famous Levain cookies, Ive reviewed hundreds of gifts for Taste of Home.

For this piece, I was joined by a crew of other Shopping Editors, expert writers and Test Kitchen pros. In total, seven staffers helped with this Harry & David review.

The Bottom Line

If youre looking to send a food gift, Harry & David cant be beaten. Across the board, they provide exemplary packaging, tasty eats and a professional touch. The only downside? Like most online food delivery brands, some of the picks are a bit pricey. You are paying for the expert packaging and overall gifting experience.

Harry & David food items start as low as $7 for a box of hors d’oeuvre crackers all the way up to a $1,000 year-long meat club subscription. There are many gifts in the $50-$100 price range. Shipping costs start at $6.99, but the total really depends on what you’re ordering and the shipping speed.

The post Harry & David Review: Are These Gourmet Gifts Worth the Hype? appeared first on Taste of Home.

30 Crockpot Dip Recipes for Your Next Party

Ivis Estrada — Wed, 15 May 2024 15:52:56 +0000

Nacho Dip

This zesty Crockpot nacho dip is great for any get-together and allows me to spend more time with my guests. I always have requests to bring it when my husband and I attend parties. Sally Hull, Homestead, Florida

Go to Recipe

The post 30 Crockpot Dip Recipes for Your Next Party appeared first on Taste of Home.