During the week, I cook up a storm in the Test Kitchen. On the weekends, especially if we’re grilling, I don’t mind turning dinner over to my husband. He’s quite the grill-master.
With Father’s Day around the corner, I thought I’d put together a cookout honoring what great dads my husband and son are.
Steaks and burgers are favorites in our house and pretty much a necessity when cooking a “manly” meal.
“This is an inexpensive cut of meat that is tender, delicious and may surprise you,” shares Delores Ward. “My family and friends love this Grilled Flat Iron Steak and ask for it at dinner and cookouts.”
Steaks can be expensive, so I love how you can turn an inexpensive cut into something extraordinary. Take easily accessible prepared sauces, mix ’em together and you’ve got a unique and delicious marinade in a snap. This recipe is easy and oh-so-flavorful.
I’m a fan of big flavors, so I may serve Lora DiG’s Monterey Jack Stuffed Mexican Hamburgers with Guacamole Topping. “I made these flavorful burgers with just the right amount of bite last night,” explains Lora. “My husband couldn’t stop saying how great these were… and I agree.”
The cumin really makes these burgers special. Combining turkey and beef isn’t something I traditionally do, but it makes for one great burger. Plus, I’ve never met a guac I didn’t like so adding it on top of the burger is alright with me!
I can’t forget the side dishes!
Rebecca Trent’s Cheesy Oven Fried Potatoes have a slight crunch which I absolutely love. The seasoning in the oil, along with the Parmesan cheese sprinkled on top, just add to the great flavors. And really, how can adding cheese sauce to fries be bad?
On the other hand, I could serve Samantha Jolin’s Amazing Twice Baked Potatoes. “I took a variation of how my mother-in-law made these and made them my own,” says Samantha. “[My] husband loves them!”
These yummy little potatoes are savory and oh-so creamy. Peppers, bacon and ham combine with creamy mashed potatoes and cheese. It’s no wonder they’re always a hit!
Jamie Burris’ hubby wanted her to share her My Husband’s Favorite Zucchini Recipe with Just A Pinch. Well, I can tell you my hubby is glad she did!
He loved how Jamie reinvented a side dish. The cream sauce pairs perfectly with zucchini. Honestly, the sauce is so good it would probably be delicious on any fresh veggie!
The meal’s not complete without something sweet and Michelle Antonacci’s Pineapple Walnut Cake fits the menu. “This recipe comes from my brother-in-law’s dad,” shares Michelle. “The first time I made it I forgot to add the sugar – it came out horrible. We both had a good laugh from that!”
Pineapple and walnuts combine to create wonderful flavor and texture in this moist cake recipe. It’s really lovely. And, I also love how every time Michelle makes this recipe she can laugh at the sweet family memory.
I celebrate the wonderful things my husband and son do throughout the year, but I do make a bit more of an effort the third Sunday in June. To me, cookin’ up a family meal shows just how much I love them.
I’d like to wish a Happy (and tasty) Father’s Day to all the fathers, step-fathers, grandfathers and great-grandfather’s out there!