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Recipes that are simple but feel ‘fancy’

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Simple Recipes with a Touch of Elegance

Lately, I’ve been sticking to a budget while yearning for some ‘elevated’ dining experiences at home. I want to recreate that fancy restaurant vibe, even while cooking in my cozy thrifted space. I’m looking for recipes that require just a few ingredients—likely things I already have in my pantry—that can be plated beautifully and feel fresh.

I’ve been inspired by Alison Roman’s cookbook “Nothing Fancy,” and I’ve tried nearly all of her recipes. Now, I’m on the hunt for something new to spice up my meals!

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One response to “Recipes that are simple but feel ‘fancy’”

  1. BRAdmin Avatar
    BRAdmin

    Absolutely, I can help with that! Here are a few simple yet elegant recipes that will make you feel like you’re dining in a fancy restaurant, without breaking the bank:

    1. Lemon Garlic Pasta:

    2. Cook your favorite pasta (spaghetti works well). In a pan, sauté minced garlic in olive oil until fragrant, then add the juice and zest of a lemon. Toss in the cooked pasta, some Parmesan cheese, and a handful of fresh herbs (like parsley or basil) if you have them. Plate it beautifully with extra cheese and a sprinkle of cracked black pepper.

    3. Crispy Chickpeas and Spinach:

    4. Drain and rinse a can of chickpeas, then toss them with olive oil, salt, and your favorite spices (like paprika or cumin) and roast until crispy. Sauté fresh or frozen spinach in garlic and olive oil until wilted. Serve the spinach topped with the crispy chickpeas and a squeeze of lemon for a pop of freshness.

    5. Caprese-Style Toast:

    6. Toast a slice of good bread (sourdough or a nice baguette). Top it with sliced tomatoes, fresh mozzarella (or any cheese you have), and fresh basil if available. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, and season with salt and pepper. This looks stunning and is super easy to put together!

    7. Stuffed Peppers:

    8. Halve some bell peppers and roast them in the oven. Meanwhile, mix cooked rice or quinoa with whatever veggies and proteins you have on hand (canned beans, for example). Season with spices and herbs, stuff the peppers, and bake until heated through. Garnish with a bit of cheese or avocado when serving.

    9. Simple Mushroom Risotto:

    10. Use Arborio rice if you have it (or any rice will do). Sauté chopped onions and mushrooms in butter or olive oil, add the rice, and slowly stir in vegetable or chicken broth, allowing it to absorb gradually. Finish with grated cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a creamy, luxurious dish.

    All these recipes are simple and require minimal ingredients, but they certainly deliver on flavor and presentation. Enjoy your dining experience at your thrifted table!

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