### About the Author: Holly Nilsson

Holly Nilsson is the inventive mind behind Spend With Pennies, a site devoted to sharing simple and comforting recipes designed for daily life. With a profound enthusiasm for nostalgic tastes and easy cooking methods, Holly enables busy home cooks to craft delectable meals that are both fulfilling and dependable.

Her culinary adventure is not solely centered on cooking; it’s about crafting unforgettable moments around the dining table. Holly’s recipes frequently draw from classic comfort foods, reinterpreted to meet the demands of contemporary families. She holds the belief that cooking should be both accessible and enjoyable, which is evident in her clear-cut approach to developing recipes.

Alongside her efforts on Spend With Pennies, Holly is the author of “Everyday Comfort.” This cookbook aims to motivate readers with hearty, homemade meals that invoke warmth and reminiscence. Each recipe is crafted to be user-friendly, ensuring that even beginner cooks can whip up delightful dishes that bring happiness to their families.

For those interested in exploring more of Holly’s culinary designs, you can find her posts and recipes on her website: [See more posts by Holly](https://www.spendwithpennies.com/author/holly/).

### Follow Holly on Social Media

Stay linked with Holly and explore more of her delicious recipes by following her on social media:

– [Pinterest](https://www.pinterest.com/spendpennies/)
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– [Twitter](http://spendpennies)
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### Chicken Satay with Creamy Coconut Curry Sauce

Tender chicken pieces marinated in a rich coconut curry sauce, skewered and grilled, paired with a zesty peanut sauce create a delicious meal that is both appetizing and fulfilling. This recipe merges the deep, fragrant flavors of coconut and curry with the crunch of peanuts, making it an ideal option for a substantial meal or a starter for social events.

#### Flavor Profile
This delectable dish showcases succulent chicken imbued with a mixture of coconut milk, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and curry powder. The side peanut sauce, crafted with peanut butter, lime juice, and a touch of ginger, brings a tangy twist that complements the marinated chicken wonderfully.

#### Preparation Notes
– **Make Ahead**: You can prep the chicken satay a day before and grill it when needed, making it an efficient choice for meal preparation.
– **Time-Saving Tips**: The peanut sauce can be made up to two days in advance and kept in the fridge. For faster prep, consider using pre-cut chicken.

#### Recommended Tools
A meat thermometer is crucial to confirm the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.

### Ingredient Tips for Chicken Satay
– **Chicken**: Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts sliced into strips for even cooking.
– **Marinade**: Select full-fat coconut milk for a richer taste. Discard any leftover marinade to prevent contamination.
– **Peanut Sauce**: Opt for smooth or chunky peanut butter, and modify the heat level with Sambal or sriracha to suit your palate.

### Variations
– Incorporate vegetables like red bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms onto the skewers for a vibrant and healthy meal.
– Swap chicken thighs for pork or shrimp for a different protein alternative.
– Utilize honey or maple syrup in place of brown sugar for a natural sweetener.

### Cooking Tips
– Cut chicken pieces evenly to ensure consistent cooking.
– Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill.
– Strive for a slight char on the chicken to enhance flavor.

### Serving Suggestions
Present the chicken satay warm, accompanied by the spicy peanut dipping sauce. Garnish with chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro for extra flavor and visual appeal.

### Leftovers
Store any remaining chicken in a covered container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat briefly in the microwave or air fryer. The peanut sauce can be stored for up to a week in a tightly sealed jar.

### Freezing Instructions
To freeze, remove the chicken from the skewers and place in zippered bags. It can be frozen for up to four months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

### Nutritional Information (per serving)
– **Calories**: 524
– **Protein**: 46g
– **Carbohydrates**: 22g
– **Fat**: 29g
– **Sodium**: 1473mg

This chicken satay recipe is not only tasty but also adaptable, allowing for different variations to fit your flavor preferences. Savor this Asian-inspired dish as a main meal or an enticing appetizer at your next event!

Here’s a method to prepare invigorating sparkling lemonade at home using just three easy ingredients! This fizzy summer beverage is ideal for gatherings and requires only 5 minutes to whip up.

As the heat rises, I often find myself longing for something chilled, sparkling, and pleasantly tangy. That’s when I reach for this sparkling lemonade recipe! Alex and I have been refining this straightforward three-ingredient drink for years, and I can truly say it has become a family favorite during the summer.

There’s a bit of enchantment in the vibrant citrus taste paired with those charming bubbles—the ultimate combination of sweetness and tartness! I appreciate that there are no artificial flavors or high fructose corn syrup: only pure, refreshing taste.

Ingredients for sparkling lemonade

The components for homemade sparkling lemonade are straightforward: you only require 3 items to prepare a zesty glass! Here’s everything you’ll need:

– Lemons: You’ll want lemon juice squeezed from fresh lemons: skip the bottled lemon juice! For one serving, use 1 large or 2 small lemons.

– Simple syrup: Simple syrup is a breeze to create at home using sugar and water. Prepare a batch and keep it in the fridge for your lemonade or cocktail needs.

– Soda water: You can purchase your own sparkling water or club soda, or create your own using a Soda Stream (my preferred choice!).

Make it by the glass or in a pitcher

Once your ingredients are ready, simply combine them! The main way I enjoy making it is by the glass, as you get fresh fizziness directly in your cup. However, if you’re hosting and wish to serve a group, going with a pitcher is also an option!

– By the glass: The recipe below yields 10 ounces or 1 ½ cups of sparkling lemonade—perfect for on-demand enjoyment.

– Pitcher: For gatherings, prepare a pitcher that provides 8 servings of 1 cup each. Note that leftovers won’t last well due to the sparkling water.

My favorite techniques for juicing lemons

After crafting hundreds of lemonade glasses, I’ve discovered the most effective ways to extract maximum juice:

– Best tool: A press juicer is my first choice. It yields more juice than any other method I’ve encountered and keeps seeds contained.

– Second choice: A handheld citrus reamer with ridges functions effectively and requires no special tools.

If you plan to hand squeeze, a helpful tip is to slice lemons in half crosswise (not lengthwise) and squeeze over a fine-mesh strainer to catch seeds. This is certainly more labor-intensive, so opt for a press juicer if possible!

Elevate it with clear ice

Want a stylish glass of sparkling lemonade that resembles the one in the pictures? Prepare a batch of clear ice! Clear ice is homemade ice that’s crystal clear, unlike the typical cloudy ice.

You can cut it into large, naturally shaped cubes, resembling ice from an upscale bar or restaurant. We utilize clear ice in many of our cocktail recipes: and it works well for sparkling lemonade too.

Cocktails that incorporate sparkling lemonade

You can blend this homemade sparkling lemonade into cocktail recipes, offering a wonderfully bright citrus flavor. In fact, Alex and I initially created this recipe while crafting a Summer Shandy.

– Summer Shandy: A shandy is a British beer cocktail that combines beer and sparkling lemonade or ginger ale. Also consider a Classic Shandy.

– Pimm’s Cup: This British cocktail is refreshing and bubbly, featuring Pimm’s No. 1 and sparkling lemonade. It’s ideal for summer (and often enjoyed at Wimbledon, if you’re a tennis enthusiast like I am.)

Additional refreshing summer beverages

If this sparkling lemonade tantalizes your taste buds, give these other refreshing drinks a try:

You can also incorporate soda water into these beverages to convert them into sparkling lemonade! There’s something incredibly satisfying about crafting a simple, delightful drink from scratch that brings people together: share your thoughts in the comments below.

Dietary notes

This sparkling lemonade recipe is vegetarian, vegan, plant-based, dairy-free and gluten-free.

Homemade Sparkling Lemonade

Here’s a method to prepare invigorating sparkling lemonade at home using just three easy ingredients! This fizzy summer beverage is ideal for gatherings and requires only 5 minutes to whip up.

Author: Sonja Overhiser
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Yield: 1 drink
Category: Drink
Method: Stirred
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

– 2 ounces (¼ cup) simple syrup
– 2 ounces (¼ cup) fresh lemon juice (1 large or 2 small lemons)
– 8 ounces (1 cup) soda water

Instructions

1. Single glass: In the serving glass, stir the simple syrup and lemon juice. Add ice and top with

**Protein-Packed Cacio e Pepe Recipe: A Healthy Take on a Timeless Dish**

Cacio e Pepe, the iconic Roman pasta creation, is celebrated for its straightforwardness and robust flavors. Typically crafted using only three components—pasta, Pecorino Romano cheese, and black pepper—this dish exemplifies the elegance of straightforward Italian cuisine. However, for those wanting to increase their protein level, a few tweaks can turn this classic into a protein-packed delight without compromising its genuine flavor.

**Ingredients:**

– 200g whole wheat spaghetti or protein-fortified pasta
– 100g Pecorino Romano cheese, finely shredded
– 1 tablespoon freshly crushed black pepper
– 100g grilled chicken breast, cubed
– 50g chickpea flour
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt, to taste

**Instructions:**

1. **Cook the Pasta:**
– Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Add the whole wheat or protein-fortified pasta and cook until al dente, according to the package directions. Set aside about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

2. **Boost the Protein:**
– While the pasta is boiling, warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Incorporate the chickpea flour and stir continuously for approximately 2-3 minutes until it turns a golden hue. This process not only elevates the protein content but adds a pleasant nuttiness to the dish.

3. **Prepare the Sauce:**
– Slowly pour the reserved pasta water into the skillet with chickpea flour, stirring constantly to develop a smooth, creamy sauce. Add more water if needed to reach the preferred texture.

4. **Mix in Cheese and Pepper:**
– Lower the heat and mix in the grated Pecorino Romano cheese and freshly ground black pepper into the sauce. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes velvety. Season with salt if necessary.

5. **Mix and Serve:**
– Add the cooked pasta and cubed grilled chicken breast into the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is thoroughly coated with the sauce and the chicken is evenly mixed in.

6. **Garnish and Enjoy:**
– Serve right away, topped with extra Pecorino Romano and a dash of black pepper for an added punch.

**Nutritional Advantages:**

This protein-packed rendition of Cacio e Pepe provides numerous nutritional benefits. Whole wheat or protein-fortified pasta delivers increased fiber and protein compared to standard pasta, enhancing digestion and muscle recovery. Chickpea flour is a wonderful source of plant-based protein that contributes a delicate nuttiness. Grilled chicken breast is a lean protein that complements the dish’s flavors without overshadowing its traditional essence. Collectively, these ingredients form a balanced meal that promotes muscle growth and overall wellness.

**Final Thoughts:**

By incorporating protein-rich components into the classic Cacio e Pepe, you can savor a delightful, healthful meal that fulfills both your cravings and nutritional requirements. This recipe preserves the core of the original dish while presenting a contemporary twist that appeals to those in search of more protein. Whether you’re an athlete, a fitness lover, or simply an admirer of Italian fare, this protein-packed Cacio e Pepe is bound to become a cherished addition to your cooking collection.

# A Definitive Manual for Summer Getaway Extended Weekend Dishes

The initial summer break is nearly upon us, and what better way to rejoice than with an abundance of delectable cuisine! When the climate is pleasant, resisting the call to the outdoors is a challenge. Whether you’re barbecuing, enjoying a picnic, or simply relishing a meal in your garden, you’ll desire some scrumptious recipes. Here’s a manual for quick, simple, hassle-free, and flavorful summer dishes that will ensure your extended weekend is unforgettable.

## Grilled Main Courses

### 1. Traditional Burgers
– **Ingredients**: Ground beef, salt, pepper, cheese slices, burger buns, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles.
– **Instructions**: Shape patties, season with salt and pepper, grill to preferred doneness, add cheese, and serve on buns with toppings.

### 2. BBQ Chicken
– **Ingredients**: Chicken pieces, BBQ sauce, salt, pepper.
– **Instructions**: Season chicken, grill until fully cooked, brush with BBQ sauce, and grill for a few additional minutes.

### 3. Fish Tacos on the Grill
– **Ingredients**: White fish fillets, taco seasoning, corn tortillas, cabbage slaw, lime wedges.
– **Instructions**: Season fish, grill until flaky, serve in tortillas with slaw and lime.

### 4. Smoked Ribs
– **Ingredients**: Pork ribs, dry rub, BBQ sauce.
– **Instructions**: Apply dry rub, smoke ribs until tender, finish with BBQ sauce.

## Accompaniments

### 1. Coleslaw
– **Ingredients**: Cabbage, carrots, mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, salt, pepper.
– **Instructions**: Shred cabbage and carrots, combine with remaining ingredients, chill before serving.

### 2. Grilled Corn on the Cob
– **Ingredients**: Corn, butter, salt, pepper.
– **Instructions**: Grill corn until charred, coat with butter, season with salt and pepper.

### 3. Caprese Salad
– **Ingredients**: Tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, olive oil, balsamic glaze.
– **Instructions**: Layer tomatoes and mozzarella, sprinkle with basil, drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze.

### 4. Potato Salad
– **Ingredients**: Potatoes, mayonnaise, mustard, celery, onion, salt, pepper.
– **Instructions**: Boil potatoes, combine with remaining ingredients, chill before serving.

## Sweets

### 1. Berry Parfait
– **Ingredients**: Mixed berries, yogurt, granola.
– **Instructions**: Layer berries, yogurt, and granola in a glass.

### 2. Grilled Peaches
– **Ingredients**: Peaches, honey, cinnamon.
– **Instructions**: Halve peaches, grill until soft, drizzle with honey and sprinkle with cinnamon.

### 3. Ice Cream Sandwiches
– **Ingredients**: Cookies, ice cream.
– **Instructions**: Put a scoop of ice cream between two cookies, freeze until solid.

## Refreshments

### 1. Lemonade
– **Ingredients**: Lemons, sugar, water.
– **Instructions**: Squeeze lemons, combine with sugar and water, chill before serving.

### 2. Iced Tea
– **Ingredients**: Tea bags, sugar, lemon slices.
– **Instructions**: Brew tea, add sugar, chill, serve with lemon slices.

### 3. Fruit Punch
– **Ingredients**: Mixed fruit juices, soda water, fresh fruit slices.
– **Instructions**: Combine juices, add soda water, garnish with fruit slices.

No matter your plans for the holiday, ensure it is abundant with delectable food! Savor the sunshine and delightful tastes of summer with these simple and hassle-free recipes.