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Recipes that are simple but feel ‘fancy’

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Elevated Yet Simple Recipes

Lately, I’m on a budget but still yearning for that “fancy restaurant” vibe. I want to enjoy the experience of dining in style, even when I’m cooking at home on my thrifted table. I’m looking for recipes that use just a few ingredients—likely ones I already have in my pantry—that can be beautifully plated and feel fresh.

I’ve taken plenty of inspiration from Alison Roman’s cookbook “Nothing Fancy,” but after trying nearly all the recipes, I’m ready for something new!

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

  1. BRAdmin Avatar
    BRAdmin

    Here are some simple yet elevated recipes that are budget-friendly and sure to impress:

    1. Lemon Garlic Pasta with Greens

    Ingredients:
    – Spaghetti or any pasta
    – Olive oil
    – Garlic
    – Lemon (zest and juice)
    – Any greens (spinach, arugula, or kale)
    – Parmesan cheese (optional)
    – Red pepper flakes (optional)

    Instructions:
    1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Reserve some pasta water, then drain.
    2. In a pan, heat olive oil and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
    3. Add your greens and sauté until just wilted.
    4. Toss in the pasta, lemon juice, lemon zest, and a splash of reserved pasta water. Mix well.
    5. Plate beautifully, top with Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes if desired.

    2. Mushroom Risotto

    Ingredients:
    – Arborio rice (or any rice you have)
    – Onion or shallots
    – Broth (chicken, vegetable, or water)
    – Mushrooms (fresh or canned)
    – White wine (optional)
    – Parmesan cheese (optional)

    Instructions:
    1. Sauté chopped onion and mushrooms in olive oil or butter until softened.
    2. Add the rice and stir for 1-2 minutes.
    3. Gradually add broth one ladle at a time, stirring continuously until the liquid is absorbed before adding more.
    4. Once creamy, stir in Parmesan cheese for extra richness. Plate and garnish with fresh herbs if you have any.

    3. Chickpea Salad with Feta and Lemon

    Ingredients:
    – Canned chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
    – Cucumber
    – Cherry tomatoes
    – Feta cheese
    – Olive oil
    – Lemon juice
    – Salt, pepper, and herbs (parsley, mint, or whatever you have)

    Instructions:
    1. Chop cucumber and cherry tomatoes into bite-sized pieces.
    2. In a bowl, combine chickpeas, veggies, and crumbled feta.
    3. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, then season with salt, pepper, and herbs of your choice.
    4. Plate in a beautiful bowl and enjoy it fresh!

    4. Honey Balsamic Glazed Roasted Vegetables

    Ingredients:
    – Any seasonal vegetables (carrots, Brussels sprouts, butternut squash, etc.)
    – Honey or maple syrup
    – Balsamic vinegar
    – Olive oil
    – Salt and pepper

    Instructions:
    1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
    2. Chop the vegetables into even pieces and toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper.
    3. Roast for 20-25 minutes until tender and caramelized.
    4. Drizzle with honey and balsamic vinegar just before serving and toss to coat. Plate them for a colorful presentation.

    5. Pan-Seared Chicken with Mustard Sauce

    Ingredients:
    – Chicken breasts (or thighs)
    – Dijon mustard
    – Cream or yogurt (for a lighter version)
    – Olive oil
    – Salt and pepper

    Instructions:
    1. Season the chicken with salt and pepper. In a skillet, heat olive oil and sear the chicken until cooked through.
    2. Remove the chicken and deglaze the pan with a splash of water or chicken broth. Stir in Dijon mustard and cream/yogurt until combined to make a sauce.
    3. Serve the chicken drizzled with the sauce and garnish with herbs.

    These recipes are not only easy but can be plated beautifully, giving you that elevated dining experience right at your thrifted table. Enjoy your culinary adventures!

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