Mexican and Southwestern Food Recipes

Main Dishes

Slow Cooker Cilantro Lime Chicken

We all experience times when motivation is lacking.  I love cooking for its creative outlet, but the nightly ritual of getting dinner on the table can be a chore.  Sometimes, feeding one’s family feels like a monumental effort.  Even for me. Of course, we still get hungry and, sadly, there is no Dinner Fairy.  Pouring…

Soups and Stews

Apple Cider Chili

Today, I have the great privilege of sharing with you a guest recipe by Phoebe Canakis. Phoebe and I became acquainted through Fig magazine for which we are both contributors. With memories of dinner around the table that were created on a budget and not from a box and with roots in a Greek heritage,…

Condiments, Tacos

Homemade Taco Seasoning

You likely have all the spices needed to make this classic seasoning blend, and it’ll taste fresher–and be more economical–than the store-bought packet.   Early in our marriage, I discovered my husband’s fondness for taco salad. When I first served tacos, he piled all the filling ingredients on his plate and crumbled the shell over…

Salads, Snacks, Tacos

Walking Tacos

Walking Tacos offer a fun, portable way to enjoy the traditional taco salad and are perfect for kids’ parties and casual dinners. Those who prefer a plated taco salad may absolutely eat the meal that way. Both of my sons are swimmers and, like so many sports activities, the summer swim meets are always over…

Soups and Stews

Chicken Tortilla Soup

A brimming pot of this wholesome soup is a filling favorite in our house. Topped with grated cheese and a few crushed tortilla chips, it’s extra special! Last year, as I was pondering what to give to several of my friends for Christmas, I struggled to think of something they would really need or want.…

Side Dishes, Snacks

Whole Wheat Cheddar Chicken (or Turkey) Quesadillas

It’s always fun to strike upon a new way of using something. In my kitchen, this often happens out of desperation, like when I lack the right ingredient and the time (or desire) to go to the store! A favorite twist I stumbled upon a few months ago was using pita bread instead of tortillas…

Salads

Southwestern Chicken (or Turkey) Quesadilla Salad

Hearty quesadillas transform this flavorful salad into a satisfying meal – and the quesadillas require just three basic ingredients!    My make-at-home version of one of my all-time favorite restaurant salad dates back to my early twenties. Suffice it to say, this salad has stood the test of time! I usually make it when I…

Appetizers, Snacks

Salted Lime Baked Corn Tortillas Chips

The salted, lime-infused crunch of a favorite store-bought tortilla chip is easy to recreate at home with a short list of ingredients and in minimal time.   My family adores the store-bought “hint of lime” tortilla chips. As I was making my Tex-Mex Chopped Salad one evening, which includes a crunchy element on top, I realized…

Condiments, Dressings, Salads

Tex-Mex Dressing

This is a super simple dressing I created for my Tex-Mex Chopped Salad.  While you can use your favorite store-bought ranch, I like this easy-to-make and healthier version.  It is delicious and, combined with the salsa, offers a bit of a kick and just the right flavor to enhance a variety of southwestern dishes. Use…

Main Dishes, Salads, Tacos

Tex-Mex Chopped Salad

With the right ingredients, a salad can be a hearty, delicious, and wholesome meal. Good proteins, healthy fats, and different textures help.  So does a homemade dressing. The simple mixture of salsa and ranch dressing lends great flavor and a little kick to this dish. While you could substitute your favorite store-bought dressing, I really…

Main Dishes, Tacos

Root Beer Pulled Pork Tacos with Vinegar Sauce

This pulled pork is a slight variation on my Lean and Mean Pulled Pork which has really become a favorite in our house.  While I have always been a fan of tomato-based barbecue sauce, my Southern friend, Lisa, is partial to a vinegar sauce.  She shared here recipe with me and it just might win…

Appetizers, Condiments, Dips

Speedy Guacamole

Homemade guacamole can be made in a flash using your favorite salsa.  If you just need a little, cut the recipe in half; double it if you are feeding a crowd.  Either way, you can whip this up in no time! Try this on Mexican Pizzas for a real slice of heaven!

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