### Mini Beef Wellington: The Ultimate Holiday Starter

These enchanting mini beef wellingtons offer a delightful variation on the traditional dish, rendering them a fantastic starter for festive gatherings. With their golden, flaky pastry shell and succulent, juicy beef core, they are bound to captivate your guests.

#### A Bite-Sized Delight

Mini beef wellingtons embody the spirit of the classic recipe but in a more digestible form. Each morsel showcases exquisitely cooked medium-rare beef, enhanced by layers of flavor from thinly sliced prosciutto, thyme-infused mushrooms, and a touch of Dijon mustard. They are not just visually striking but also bursting with flavor, making them a remarkable selection for celebratory occasions.

#### Ingredients

To craft these mini treats, gather the following components:

– 1 tbsp butter
– 1 lb mushrooms, finely chopped
– 2-3 sprigs fresh thyme
– 1 lb beef tenderloin or filet, cubed (1.5 inches)
– 1 tbsp neutral oil
– Salt and freshly cracked pepper
– 1-2 tbsp Dijon mustard (to taste)
– 6 slices Prosciutto di Parma
– 2 sheets puff pastry (thawed)
– 1 egg yolk (lightly beaten with 1 tsp water)

#### Preparation Steps

1. **Mushroom Mixture**: Heat butter over medium-low heat. Introduce mushrooms and thyme, allowing them to cook without stirring for 5 minutes. Stir and keep cooking until moisture evaporates, forming a smooth paste. Season with salt and pepper, then let cool to room temperature.

2. **Sear the Beef**: Dry the beef cubes with a paper towel and season with salt and pepper. Heat the oil in a cast iron skillet over high heat and sear the beef on all sides for around 1 minute. Remove from the heat and allow to rest.

3. **Assemble the Filling**: Generously brush Dijon mustard on all sides of the beef. On a piece of plastic wrap, place a slice of prosciutto, spread a thin layer of the mushroom mixture, and position the beef cube in the center. Wrap tightly and chill in the freezer for 10-15 minutes.

4. **Prepare the Pastry**: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Cut the puff pastry into strips that match the width of the beef packages. Unwrap the beef and lay it on a strip of pastry, wrapping it snugly. Use water to seal the edges.

5. **Bake**: Arrange the wellingtons seam side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush with the egg wash, score gently with a knife, and sprinkle with coarse salt. Bake for 10 minutes, rotate the pan, raise the temperature to 450°F, and bake for an extra 10 minutes or until golden brown.

6. **Serve**: Let the wellingtons rest before serving. They can be relished on their own or paired with garlic mashed potatoes for a complete experience.

#### Nutritional Information

Each serving of mini beef wellington provides approximately:

– **Calories**: 591
– **Fat**: 34.9g
– **Saturated Fat**: 15.1g
– **Cholesterol**: 100mg
– **Sodium**: 1019mg
– **Carbohydrates**: 34.6g
– **Protein**: 38.4g

#### Conclusion

These mini beef wellingtons are not just visually appealing but also a delightful way to enjoy the holiday season. Their complex flavors and sophisticated presentation make them an ideal addition to any festive spread. Dedicate time to prepare these wonderful treats, and you will undoubtedly impress your loved ones. Enjoy the culinary adventure!

After years of preparing salmon dishes, I can truthfully say: I have gained some knowledge about how to cook this beloved fish! I used to get annoyed with salmon that turned out “fishy” tasting and mushy (has this happened to you?).

Thus, I embarked on a journey to perfect baked salmon, then explored various cooking techniques and flavor pairings. Thankfully, along the way, my family enjoyed these dishes as well. Here’s a compilation of my most dependable salmon recipes that always succeed: all tested on a real family (mine!). There’s a variety ranging from baked, grilled, burgers, tacos, salads, and more.

My Preferred Salmon Recipes

Numerous recipes boast about being the best baked salmon, yet this one truly lives up to its promise. The delicate fillet is seasoned just right with brown sugar, my “magic” salmon seasoning, and a crispy topping. After extensive testing, I’ve combined all my favorite techniques into this master recipe that yields tender, flavorful outcomes.

I pan-sear the salmon for a browned, crusty exterior, and then finish it in the oven until it’s perfectly tender. The sticky honey garlic sauce glaze infuses a sweet and savory depth that elevates simple fillets into something extraordinary.

This Parmesan-crusted salmon is a scrumptious and quick dinner option. The crunchy, flavorful topping pairs perfectly with the tender salmon! It’s always a favorite among my family and friends.

One of my personal favorites is this bowl of salmon and rice! The bites of tender fish are enveloped in an alluring savory, garlicky, and slightly sweet salmon marinade. When combined with fluffy rice and fresh vegetables, topped with a spicy mayo, the flavor truly stands out.

This Tuscan-style salmon (also known as “Marry Me Salmon” for good reason) cooks the fish in a rich cream sauce featuring garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and capers. The blend is so captivating; it’s one of my top choices for impressing guests.

This lemon dill salmon is quick, simple, and even sophisticated enough for hosting. Just place it on a baking sheet, season with salt and pepper, and bake while preparing a creamy lemon dill sauce.

My straightforward grilled salmon method yields tender fish with a lightly crispy crust consistently. I season it with my “magic” seasoning blend, or you can prepare the grilled marinated salmon with a juicy, tasty marinade.

If there’s one salmon recipe that consistently goes over well in my home, it’s tacos. These salmon tacos are full of fresh, vibrant flavor, pairing blackened salmon with pineapple pico and a creamy green avocado sauce.

This chimichurri salmon combines moist, flaky salmon with the tangy, garlicky kick of this herby sauce—these flavors were made for each other! It’s so quick and simple to make broiled, or you can experiment with baking or grilling.

This baked salmon pasta is bursting with flavor from tender salmon flakes, zesty lemon and capers, and a blend of Mediterranean vegetables. It’s an uncomplicated recipe that guarantees a delicious dinner. (a reader favorite!).

Pecan-crusted salmon has a touch of gourmet flair but is quick and easy to prepare on a weeknight. The crunchy topping of nuts, seasoned breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese elevates basic salmon to new heights.

Pan-seared salmon is a fundamental technique every cook should master because it’s quick, easy, and results in amazing flavor. This method provides a delightful seared crust with tender, moist fish.

This dinner recipe includes a creamy, savory filling reminiscent of everyone’s favorite dip, cleverly stuffed into a salmon fillet. It’s become one of my favorite special occasion salmon preparations that still come together effortlessly.

Salmon is pleasant as a fillet, but have you ever tried cutting it into pieces before cooking? It creates perfectly seasoned morsels that are easy to eat and ideal for serving over salads or in a bowl meal. They’re fantastic for kids, making it a dish the entire family will enjoy!

Miso works wonders in the kitchen: it imparts a savory umami flavor to anything it touches. This glossy miso glaze is so flavorful, you’ll want to apply a swipe to nearly everything you cook.

One of the finest methods to prepare salmon? Under the broiler, so you don’t even need to preheat the oven! Allow it to reach room temperature, then broil it for 7 to 10 minutes until fully cooked. As it broils, I highly suggest making my lemon caper sauce.

These delectable salmon burgers are hearty and juicy, topped with a creamy remoulade sauce that elevates them to rockstar status. They provide a fun twist to classic burgers while still feeling satisfying.

This Cajun salmon features a crispy blackened layer seasoned with homemade Cajun spices for an abundance of savory flavor. The tender fish beneath contrasts beautifully with the bold, spiced crust.

Picture this: tender, perfectly seasoned chunks

Alex & Sonja: The Culinary Team Behind A Couple Cooks

Alex and Sonja Overhiser are the energetic pair behind the well-known food blog, A Couple Cooks. As authors of two successful cookbooks and busy parents, they have successfully carved out a niche in the culinary realm by conveying their enthusiasm for simple, seasonal cooking. Their adventure started in 2010 when they unveiled their website to document their culinary explorations and spread their love for cooking to a larger audience.

The couple’s cooking philosophy is grounded in the idea that meal preparation should be a joyful and uncomplicated experience. They concentrate on crafting recipes that are not only tasty but also attainable for home cooks of varying skill levels. By highlighting the importance of seasonal ingredients, Alex and Sonja motivate their readers to flavor each season’s bounty and take full advantage of fresh produce.

Over time, A Couple Cooks has evolved into an extensive resource for food enthusiasts, providing thousands of original recipes, cooking tricks, and meal planning suggestions. Each recipe is carefully developed and tested by Alex and Sonja, ensuring it complies with their elevated standards for flavor and simplicity. Their commitment to quality is reflected in the stunning visuals that accompany every dish, showcasing the vivid colors and appealing textures of their culinary artistry.

Beyond their digital presence, Alex and Sonja have authored two cookbooks that further highlight their culinary proficiency and imagination. These books are a testament to their dedication to making cooking a delightful and fulfilling experience for everyone. As parents, they also recognize the difficulties of juggling family life with a love for cooking, often sharing insights and advice on how to engage children in the kitchen.

Through their efforts, Alex and Sonja have motivated countless individuals to discover the pleasures of cooking and to value the beauty of simple, nutritious meals. Their journey stands as a testament to the strength of collaboration and the influence that a shared passion can bring on both personal and professional fronts. Whether you’re an experienced chef or a beginner, A Couple Cooks provides an abundance of inspiration and direction to assist you in creating delightful meals and cherished memories in the kitchen.

### Brussels Sprout Casserole: A Warm Holiday Accompaniment

This Brussels Sprout Casserole serves as a warm and soothing side dish that fits seamlessly on the holiday table. It comes out golden and bubbling with a wealth of flavor, making it an ideal make-ahead option when oven space is limited.

#### Flavor Profile
The casserole incorporates savory bacon and slightly caramelized Brussels sprouts, contributing layers of flavor, beautifully enhanced by a cheesy, creamy sauce. For a more economical choice, you can swap Gruyere for sharp cheddar without losing flavor.

#### Serving Suggestions
Whether you adore Brussels sprouts or can’t stand them, this casserole is an essential holiday side. It complements roast chicken or prime rib splendidly, adding versatility to any festive feast.

### Selecting the Finest Ingredients

– **Brussels Sprouts**: Cut them in half or quarters for consistent cooking, ensuring uniform sizes. Frozen sprouts are acceptable as long as they are thawed beforehand.
– **Bacon**: Standard bacon delivers the richest flavor. If you prefer turkey bacon or a leaner alternative, include a bit of butter to substitute for the saved bacon drippings.
– **Cheese**: Gruyère melts nicely, yet sharp or white cheddar, fontina, or smoked Gouda are also viable choices. Grate cheese fresh off the block for a creamier sauce.
– **Topping**: Ritz crackers offer an ideal buttery crunch. If needed, you can replace them with Panko or seasoned bread crumbs.
– **Preferred Variations**: Elevate the dish with a dollop of Dijon mustard for zest, fresh thyme or rosemary for an aromatic touch, or a dash of red pepper flakes for some spice.

### Assembling This Casserole

1. In a sizable skillet, sauté the Brussels sprouts and cook the bacon.
2. Create a cheese sauce using the rendered bacon fat.
3. Mix the ingredients in a baking dish, sprinkle on the cracker topping, and bake until hot and bubbly.

#### Tips for Success
– Sauté the sprouts until golden to preserve their texture during baking.
– Gradually incorporate the milk while whisking to ensure the sauce remains smooth and free of lumps.
– If the topping starts to brown too soon, loosely cover it with foil while baking.
– This dish can be made a day or two in advance. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature while the oven preheats, adding a few additional minutes to the baking time if it remains cool.
– Hosting a large gathering? This casserole can easily be doubled; simply use a 9×13 pan and adjust the baking time slightly.

### Storing Leftovers
Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat uncovered in the oven at 350°F until thoroughly heated, or microwave individual servings. Freezing prior to baking is not advised, but leftovers can be frozen for up to 1 month; thaw overnight and reheat uncovered in the oven until bubbling.

### Conclusion
This Brussels Sprout Casserole is a charming addition to any holiday meal, providing a comforting combination of flavors and textures that will satisfy both Brussels sprouts lovers and detractors. Relish the warmth and joy it brings to your festive celebrations!

# The Ultimate Thanksgiving Side Dishes

If there’s one thing we can all agree on about Thanksgiving, it’s this: while the turkey may take center stage, the sides are where the true delight lies. Creamy, savory, crispy-topped, buttery vegetables and carbs heaped high on a plate – that’s the Thanksgiving vibe we’re all really craving.

This compilation offers a blend of comforting favorites and a few exciting twists — because sometimes Thanksgiving demands tradition, and other times it craves a dash of flair. And the highlight? Many of these recipes are naturally vegetarian, ensuring that those at your table who skip the turkey can still relish the full Thanksgiving experience. Picture fluffy potatoes, flavorful green beans, soft gnocchi, warm breads, and salads that are genuinely thrilling.

These are the sides that elevate the feast to something extraordinary. Let’s get them on the table!

## The Ultimate Thanksgiving Side Dishes

1. **[Green Bean Casserole](https://pinchofyum.com/green-bean-casserole)**
This Green Bean Casserole is a Thanksgiving staple! Fresh green beans enveloped in a smooth, rich sauce dotted with gruyere and shallots – topped with crispy onions, naturally!
*12 reviews / 5 average*

2. **[Sweet Potato Casserole with Brown Sugar Topping](https://pinchofyum.com/sweet-potato-casserole)**
That crunchy brown sugar topping will invigorate your spirit! An essential addition to my Thanksgiving spread!
*64 reviews / 4.8 average*

3. **[7-Layer Beet Salad](https://pinchofyum.com/7-layer-beet-salad)**
This 7-Layer Beet Salad is a fall marvel! Laden with cooked beets, supremed oranges, chopped pistachios, creamy truffle ricotta, and a hint of fresh mint. So refreshing, so tasty!
*23 reviews / 4.9 average*

4. **[Bacon and Brussels Sprout Salad](https://pinchofyum.com/bacon-brussels-sprout-salad)**
Without a doubt, my top salad choice for Thanksgiving! Finely shredded brussels sprouts, chopped bacon, and a light citrus dressing.
*32 reviews / 4.7 average*

5. **[Everyone’s Favorite Corn Casserole](https://pinchofyum.com/corn-casserole)**
Juicy bites of cream-style corn and sweet corn, complemented by garlic, bacon, and cheese throughout – trust me, it’s absolutely delicious!
*37 reviews / 4.7 average*

6. **[House Favorite Roasted Brussels Sprouts](https://pinchofyum.com/house-favorite-brussels-sprouts)**
We enjoy these frequently, but they’re particularly delightful at Thanksgiving! Adorned with vibrant bursts of cranberries and nutty walnuts.
*42 reviews / 5 average*

7. **[The Best Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes](https://pinchofyum.com/instant-pot-mashed-potatoes)**
The ideal solution for freeing up stove space! Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes! So creamy, so fluffy, and incredibly DELICIOUS.
*77 reviews / 4.7 average*

8. **[Roasted Carrots with Honey and Garlic Yogurt Sauce](https://pinchofyum.com/roasted-carrots-with-honey-and-garlic-yogurt-sauce)**
These gorgeous carrots deserve a spot on your table! Intensely roasted rainbow carrots, drizzled with tangy garlic yogurt sauce, a golden honey drizzle, and festive pistachio sprinkles on top.
*17 reviews / 4.9 average*

9. **[Avocado Kale Caesar Salad](https://pinchofyum.com/avocado-kale-caesar-salad-sweet-potato-fries)**
Kale, avocado, and crunchy seeds bathed in a quick creamy avocado caesar dressing that can easily be made vegan as well.
*73 reviews / 4.9 average*

10. **[Liz’s Roasted Broccoli Salad](https://pinchofyum.com/roasted-broccoli-salad)**
Another triumph of roasted veggies! Bright lemon, crispy bacon, tangy feta, and crunchy roasted broccoli.
*56 reviews / 5 average*

11. **[Pumpkin Gnocchi with Sage Butter Sauce](https://pinchofyum.com/pumpkin-gnocchi)**
Incredibly soft and delectable, feels just perfect for a holiday. Finished with a 5-ingredient sage garlic butter sauce that will amaze you!