Mandalay Bay Wraps

Turkey, Bacon, Avocado wraps (fondly known by my family as "The Mandalay Bay Wrap") were re-created from a vacation, poolside lunch. I can't even remember the year, but its been several (possibly 2005), my family and I were on our usual summer getaway vacation at the Mandalay Bay resort in Las Vegas. Before you know it, we're down by the pool and its lunchtime. The call of the delicious smelling burgers filled the air from the poolside grill,...

Sunset's Burritos Grandes

Whenever we think "burritos" in our household, these babies are a classic favorite. Huge, hearty and delicious. Ingredients 2 ounces (4 to 6) dried ancho, new Mexico, or California chiles (see Quick Tip below)1/3 cup tequila 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice3 garlic cloves, peeled1 tablespoon olive oil 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano1 teaspoon salt, divided1 1/4 pounds pork shoulder (butt), fat trimmed 1/2 cup long-grain white rice1/4 cup canned tomato...

White Chocolate Cranberry Cheesecake

Easily one of the BEST cheesecakes I've ever had. The recipe was easy and straight forward. I need to work on making more attractive looking chocolate curls in the future, but the taste of the final product is where it really counts. Makes 8-10 servings Total Time: 3 hr 40 min Prep 2 hr 20 min Cook 1 hr 20 min *Inactive time: 8 hours (cake resting) Ingredients For the crust: 18 whole graham crackers, finely crushed (about...

Lemon-Pepper Roast Chicken

I've tried a lot or recipes and even some basic non-recipes seasonings for roast chickens-- this recipe, by far, results in some of the best roast chicken I've ever had. The kicker here? Butter. (I think so anyway). I feel like it must be the butter, both underneath and on top of the skin, that makes it taste like a perfectly brined bird without actually having to brine it and with the wine to help flavor and steam-- Perfection. Makes 6-8 servings ...

Tequila Turkey Fettuccine

Another quick, simple and delicious classic recipe from Guy Fieri's cookbook. We've made this recipe several times and it has nice spicy hints and tasty influences. It also doesn't feel like you're eating a heavy meal which is a plus for me! Guy's cookbook is chuck full of delicious recipes. Check it out-- you'll love it! *Makes 2 servings Ingredients 2 tablespoons olive oil1/4 red onion, cut into 1/8-inch strips3 teaspoons minced jalapeno 5...

Fresh Salmon-Cilantro Burgers

I love seafood. Cilantro and salmon? Yes. These salmon burgers are quick, delicious and easy to make (and made with fresh salmon). An added bonus?-- they don't break the calorie bank! Found this gem a couple years back in an issue of Cooking Light magazine. Better, lighter and fresher than any fish sandwich. A personal fave. Makes 4 Servings Ingredients 1/4 cup reduced-fat mayonnaise  1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro 1...

Texas Beef Chili

Another good one for hot or cold weather. I've had a hankering lately for some hearty, spicy, Texas beef chili. Now I know its the Texan way to eat the classic chili as beef-only with just the chili seasoning, but there are certain things you just can't give up. In my household cilantro is a must along with any of the other common chili toppings (sometime's I'll even add a dash of buht jolokia chili powder for that 'it-burns-so-good' experience')....

Creamy Chicken Soup

Cold weather have you wanting something warm and comforting? Well here's the perfect remedy. Possibly one of the best and most tasty, simple, delicious soups I've ever had and perfect for any time you desire. Whether its summer scorcher or a wild winter, if you're craving a hearty, delicious soup, this will surely do the trick. Seriously good! *The only thing we changed were steps 5-6. We made the flour/butter into a roux, separate from...

Strawberry Agua Fresca

Summer may have ended but there are still a few warm days left and some things never get old. When looking for some light, delicious refreshments, a fruity, thirst quenching agua fresca is the way to go. We make this every summer in our household and it never fails to help beat the heat. Makes: 6 servings  Serving size: 8 ounce Start to Finish 20 mins Ingredients 6 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and...

Spiced Salmon Kebabs

Who doesn't love kebabs or any kind of food on a stick? I love seafood and salmon is up there as one of my favorites! This awesome recipe from Bon Appétit magazine was light, delicious and easy to prepare. Definitely will making these again soon! Makes 4 servings INGREDIENTS 2 tablespoons chopped fresh oregano 2 teaspoons sesame seeds 1 teaspoon ground...

Red Rocker Chicken Sandwich

Guy Fieri never ceases to amaze. My mother and I cook from his book Guy Fieri Food at least a few times a month and the Red Rocker chicken margarita sandwich happens to be a classic for us. Simple and absolutely bursting with delicious flavors. The marinade is perfect and the the fried peppers are unbelievably delicious. *I also like to take the jalapenos from the marinade and coat/deep fry them along with the bell peppers for extra delicious...