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Frozen Paloma Cocktail

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This Frozen Paloma is a delicious blended version of a Classic Paloma. Just add all the ingredients to a blender; ice, fresh grapefruit, silver tequila, simple syrup and a little lemon juice. Blend it up smooth and enjoy. Cheers!

tall glass with a frozen paloma. tequila, grapefruit and lemon in the background

Ingredients

I actually tested this recipe live on Instagram. It was a Friday afternoon and I wanted a cocktail and a little company so I hopped on a live. It took a few tries but we finally nailed the right flavor for this Frozen Paloma.

One hint on making it delicious… don’t salt the rim. I found that the salt enhanced the bitterness of the grapefruit and DID NOT work together.

Since a regular Paloma is made with sugary grapefruit soda, you need more sweet than salty for this frozen version… remember this is not a Margarita, it’s a Paloma. If anything add a sugar rim!

Ingredients for a Frozen Paloma on a table; tequila, grapefruit juice, grapefruit, ice, lemon and agave

Ice: Since this is a frozen cocktail, it is important to start with ice. In this Frozen Strawberry Margarita or this Frozen Pineapple Margarita we only use the frozen fruit, no ice. But since there isn’t really a frozen grapefruit readily available, we make this one with ice!

Fresh Grapefruit: A quarter of a fresh grapefruit with the rind removed adds a little body and a lot of flavor to this Frozen Paloma!

Silver Tequila: We LOOOOVVVEEEEE a good tequila cocktail! The bar is always stocked with a bottle or two of silver tequila and Aรฑejo tequila. Here are some of the brands we love:

Tequila Brands We Love

Believe it or not the Costco Kirkland Tequila pictured above is SO good! Highly recommend. Some call it "Costco-migos" because it is peculated to be Casamigos under a Costco label.

Casamigos is also amazing

Cazadores

Espolon

Patron

Don Julio

For really flavored cocktails we also love a Jose Cuervo Tradicional

Grapefruit Juice: You can squeeze your own grapefruit juice or buy a refrigerated 100% grapefruit juice at the store.

A frozen paloma in a blender before it is pureed

Simple Syrup or Agave: This Frozen Paloma definitely needs a little sweetness. A Simple Syrup is really easy to make with sugar and water, or a light agave syrup works great too!

Lemon Juice: When I tested this drink live on Instagram. One of the flavor changers in this cocktail is just a little lemon juice. It brightens up the grapefruit and counterbalances the bitterness.

Step by Step

It is pretty simple to make this Frozen Paloma Cocktail. Measure all the ingredients into a blender and puree until it is smooth, about 20-30 seconds.

Spoon or pour it into a glass. Since this is an ice based cocktail it will melt faster than a frozen fruit cocktail, like this Frozen Mango Margarita. So drink it up right away!

scooping a frozen paloma into a glass

More Grapefruit Cocktails

Frozen Grapefruit Paloma with a fresh grapefruit on top

Frozen Paloma Cocktail Recipe

A frozen take on a classic Paloma Cocktail. Fresh grapefruit is mixed with ice, grapefruit juice, silver tequila, simple syrup (or agave) and a little lemon juice to brighten it up.
5 from 1 vote
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Servings: 1 drink
Author: Susie Weinrich

Equipment

  • Blender

Ingredients

  • 1 cup ice
  • ยผ of a fresh grapefruit - rind removed
  • 1.5 oz silver tequila
  • 2 oz grapefruit juice
  • 1.5 oz simple syrup - or light agave
  • .5 oz lemon juice

Instructions
 

  • Add all the ingredients to a blender and puree until it is completely smooth. About 20-30 seconds.
    1 cup ice, ยผ of a fresh grapefruit, 1.5 oz silver tequila, 2 oz grapefruit juice, 1.5 oz simple syrup , .5 oz lemon juice
    A frozen paloma in a blender before it is pureed
  • Pour into a glass. You may need to use a spoon to scoop it, it will be slightly thick.
    scooping a frozen paloma into a glass
  • Enjoy right away! Cheers!
Did you make this recipe?Connect with me and let me know by commenting below!
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Tequila Lemon Drop

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This Tequila Lemon Drop is a delicious lemon drink for all tequila lovers. We have taken the traditional Lemon Drop Cocktail and made it with silver tequila. The flavors of the crisp, clean silver tequila pairs perfectly with the tart lemon and the sweetness of the simple syrup. We zest a little fresh lemon over top of the drink just to amp up the flavors.

pouring a tequila lemon drop into a coupe glass

There is one more tequila lemon drop style cocktail we highly recommend you check out next time you need a really amazing tequila cocktail; this Tequila Cinnamon Lemon Drop.

Ingredients

Silver Tequila: a clean and crisp good quality silver or blanco tequila is what you want for this Tequila Lemon Drop. The crisp flavor pairs perfectly with the tart lemon.

Tequila Brands We Love

Believe it or not the Costco Kirkland Tequila pictured above is SO good! Highly recommend. Some call it “Costco-migos” because it is peculated to be Casamigos under a Costco label.

Casamigos is also amazing

Cazadores

Patron

Don Julio

Simple Syrup: making simple syrup is so… simple. Just two ingredients, sugar and water, is all you need. You can even make simple syrup in the microwave!

Ingredients for Tequila Lemon Drop Cocktail

Fresh Lemon: you will use the juice and the zest of the fresh lemon. A citrus press makes quick work of getting the juice out of the lemon.

After you make the cocktail, zest a little lemon over top. It really ramps up the fresh lemon flavor.

Sugar: a sugar rim is classic for a lemon drop cocktail. It mellows our the tart lemon in the cocktial. You will also need sugar to make the simple syrup.

More Lemon Drinks

Tequila lemon drop in a coupe glass with lemons to the side

Tequila Lemon Drop Recipe

A perfect cocktail for tequila lovers, mimicked after the classic Lemon Drop. Silver tequila is mixed with simple syrup and lemon juice.
5 from 1 vote
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Servings: 1 drink
Author: Susie Weinrich

Equipment

Ingredients

Sugar Rim & Garnish

  • sugar
  • lemon wedge
  • lemon zest

Instructions
 

  • Run a lemon around the rim of a stemmed glass… a coupe glass works great for this drink.
    lemon wedge
  • Dip the rim in sugar so it adheres. Set aside.
    sugar
  • In a cocktail shaker add a few cubes of ice.
  • Measure in the tequila, simple syrup and lemon juice. Shake vigorously for 20-30 seconds.
    2 oz Silver Tequila , 1 oz simple syrup, 1 oz fresh squeezed lemon juice
  • Strain into the prepared glass.
  • Lightly zest a fresh lemon over top.
    lemon zest
  • Enjoy!

Recipe Tips and Notes:

ย 
FLAVORED LEMON DROP: add a little cinnamon to the simple syrup and make this Tequila Cinnamon Lemon Drop.ย 
Did you make this recipe?Connect with me and let me know by commenting below!
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more recipes you will love

Thick and Hearty White Chicken Chili

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This is a thick and creamy White Chicken Chili recipe filled with tender chicken, white beans, corn and plenty of spices. The broth is thickened with a mixture of yellow corn tortillas and cream cheese which both melt into the broth and add amazing layers of flavor. Top bowls of the white chili with fresh diced avocado, cilantro and jalapenos.

a bowl and a pot full of white chicken chili. Tortilla chips and lime wedges to the side.

Also highly recommend using scoops tortilla chips in place of a spoon to devour a bowl. Delicious!! Also serve a side of Buttermilk Cornbread drizzled with Hot Honey or schmeared with Honey Butter.

If you are an Instant Pot lover you can also check out this Instant Pot Chicken Chili recipe which is full of very similar flavors.

Ingredients

The recipe card makes it look like there are A LOT of ingredients in this Chicken Chili… but if you take a closer look most of the ingredients come out of your spice cabinet!

Onion, Bell Peppers, Celery: this is considered the holy trinity, very popular in Cajun cuisine like this Cajun Rice. It is a perfect flavor base for this White Chicken Chili. Use any color bell pepper you prefer.

Diced Green Chilies: we love the flavor that diced green chilies add to just about any chili recipe.

Seasonings and Spices: like I said before there is a long list of seasonings and spices that are added to this chicken chili recipe. They all work together to make the chili super flavorful! You probably have most of them on hand:

  • cumin
  • chili powder
  • onion powder
  • smoked paprika
  • kosher salt
  • oregano

Chicken Stock and Chicken Base: if you ever make a soup recipe from Mom’s Dinner the chances of it calling for a chicken base or beef base are about 99.99%. You can find chicken base in the soup aisle at the grocery store. It comes in a jar or tub and is in a paste form. Better Than Bouillon is our favorite brand.

Chicken base, Better Than Bouillon brand

Cooked Chicken: this is a great time to use a rotisserie chicken from the grocery store. Costco has is a great place to get rotisserie chicken. You can also poach chicken and shred it up for the soup. Or if you have leftover cooked chicken that will work too!

Easily Shred Warm Cooked Chicken

Place WARM or HOT cooked chicken breasts in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Turn the mixer on to low speed and let it run for 20-30 seconds, or until the chicken is shredded to your desired consistency.

Shredded chicken meat in a bowl

Yellow Corn Tortillas: I recommend using yellow corn tortillas as they will have more flavor than a white corn tortilla. They melt perfectly into the broth and add a really delicious flavor, plus it slightly thickens the broth, making the white chili nice and hearty!

yellow corn tortillas chopped up in a pile

Northern Beans: make sure you drain the beans before adding then to the chili. If you don’t have Northern Beans you can also use cannellini beans.

Frozen Corn: stays nice and tender crisp in the soup. Add it right in frozen and the heat of the soup “cooks” the corn.

Cream Cheese: make sure you get full fat cream cheese so it will melt nice and smooth and creamy into your chicken chili. I like to cube it into 8 pieces so it melts easier in the soup.

Step by Step

  1. Sautรฉ Veggies

    2. Add the oil to a large pot or Dutch Oven, sautรฉ the onions, peppers, garlic and celery until softened.

  2. Add Seasonings and Spices

    3. Measure in all the seasonings and spices, plus the chicken base and green chilies. Stir so the spices coat all the veggies and the chicken base melts into the veggies.

    onions, peppers, celery and spices in a large pot. the start of white chicken chili
  3. Sautรฉ Yellow Corn Tortillas

    4. Chop the tortillas into small dice and add to the pot. Sautรฉ while stirring for 2 minutes

    yellow corn tortillas mixed with onions, peppers, celery and spices
  4. Pour in the chicken broth and water

    5. Pour in the chicken broth and water and simmer over medium-low heat for about 15 minutes. Stir occasionally breaking up the tortillas.

  5. Add Beans, Chicken, Corn and Cream Cheese

    6. Stir in the beans, chicken, corn and cubed cream cheese. Stir once in a while for about 5 minutes, giving the cream cheese time to completely melt into the soup.

    white chicken chili in a pot with cream cheese melting in
  6. Finish with Fresh Lime Juice.

    7. Pour in the lime juice and stir to combine. Time to eat!

    a pot of chicken chili with a napkin to the side

Topping Ideas for White Chicken Chili

Serve up this chili with lots of topping options, or just pick your favorites:

  • diced avocado
  • shredded pepper jack cheese
  • plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
  • tortilla chips or Fritos
  • diced tomatoes
  • fresh or pickled jalapenos
  • green onions or chopped cilantro
  • diced white onions
  • hot sauce
a bowl of white chicken chili topped with avocado, lime wedges and cilantro

More Chili Recipes To Love

Susie leaning on the kitchen counter

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a bowl of white chicken chili topped with avocado, lime wedges and cilantro

White Chicken Chili Recipe

A thick and creamy White Chicken Chili recipe filled with tender chicken, white beans, corn and plenty of spices. The broth is thickened with a mixture of corn tortillas and cream cheese.
5 from 5 votes
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Author: Susie Weinrich

Ingredients

Optional Toppings

  • fresh diced avocado, cilantro, sour cream, plain greek yogurt, shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, green onions, diced red onion, tortilla chips, and jalapenos.

Instructions
 

  • In a large pot over medium heat add the oil.
    3 Tbsp olive oil
  • Add the onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic. Cook over medium heat until the onions become translucent and the peppers and celery begin to soften, about 10 minutes.
    1 white onion, 2 celery ribs, ยฝ bell pepper, 4 garlic cloves
  • Add the green chilies, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, oregano, and salt. Give it a good stir around the pot and let it warm through for a minute.
    4 oz can diced green chilies, 2 tsp cumin, 1 tsp chili powder, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp onion powder, 1 tsp oregano, 1 tsp kosher salt
  • Measure in the chicken base and stir it around to coat the veggies.
    Chop the tortillas into small dice and add to the pot. Sautรฉ while stirring for 2 minutes.
    1 Tbsp chicken base, 4 yellow corn tortillas
    yellow corn tortillas mixed with onions, peppers, celery and spices
  • Pour the chicken stock and water, simmer over medium – medium/low heat for about 15 minutes. Occasionally stirring and breaking up the tortillas.
    4 cups Chicken Stock, 1 cup water
  • Add the corn, chicken, beans and cream cheese. Let it warm through for about 5 minutes for the cream cheese to completely melt into the soup.
    2 ยฝ cups cooked chicken, 15 oz can Northern Beans, 1 cup frozen corn, 8 oz cream cheese
    white chicken chili in a pot with cream cheese melting in
  • Finish with the lime juice.
    1 Tbsp lime juice
  • Serve right away with toppings on the side: avocado, cilantro, sour cream or plain Greek yogurt, cheese, tomatoes, onion, tortilla chips, and jalapenos.

Storing and Reheating

  • Keep in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
    It will thicken as it sits in the fridge. You may have to add a little chicken broth to thin it when reheating.

Recipe Tips and Notes:

INSTANT POT: If you love your electric pressure cooker check out this Instant Pot Chicken Chili. It is a very similar recipe.ย 
CHICKEN: This is a great recipe for leftover cooked chicken or a rotisserie chicken from the grocery store. Or you can poach chicken breast for the chili.
Did you make this recipe?Connect with me and let me know by commenting below!
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15 Minute Blackened Tilapia

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Blackened Tilapia is a great fish recipe that is easy-to-make and can be ready for dinner in about 15 minutes, making it a quick weeknight meal. A homemade blackened seasoning with Cajun flavors is sprinkled all over fresh tilapia filets. They are pan fried for about 2-3 minutes per side over medium-high heat. They turn out beautifully “blackened” on the outside and flaky and tender on the inside.

blackened tilapia on a platter with rice underneath

This recipe for Blackened Tilapia is very similar to this Cajun Salmon if you prefer to eat or already have salmon!

We LOVE all the Cajun flavors here at Mom’s Dinner. Some of our favorites to try are Cajun Rice, Red Beans and Rice, Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta, and Skillet Dirty Rice and Beans.

Ingredients

If you have a well stocked spice cabinet you can probably make these Blackened Tilapia Filets for dinner. Pictured are the things you need:

Ingredients for Blackened Tilapia

Tilapia: Even if you don’t like fish you might like tilapia! It is a very mild-tasting fish that I sometimes say tastes like really tender chicken! It is a nice flaky fish when it is cooked to 145 degrees internal temp. If you love tilapia definitely also check out this Parmesan Tilapia Recipe.

Smoked Paprika: There are quite a few different varieties of paprika. For this recipe, and to keep with those Cajun flavors, I HIGHLY recommend using smoked paprika! It is also a key ingredient in our Homemade Cajun Seasoning.

Oregano and Thyme: add notes of fresh herbs to a very savory seasoning mix.

Brown Sugar: adds a little sweetness as well as balances the salty/savory flavor of the blackened spice mix.

Cumin: is a very warm spice that is used in a lot of southern style and Mexican cuisine. It blends perfectly in this recipe.

Cayenne Pepper: add a little or a lot for extra spice.

Thawing Frozen Tilapia Filets

If you purchased frozen tilapia there are two options for thawing:

Overnight: Remove them from any packaging they were purchased in and place them in a pan in the fridge and let them thaw overnight.

Quick Thaw: Place the frozen tilapia filets in their packaging or in Ziploc baggies in a bowl of room temp water, leave for 10-15 minutes. Replace the water and let sit an additional 10-15 minutes. Repeat until they are thawed.

tilapia filets with cajun seasoning

Serving

This blackened fish is great served with Cajun Rice and Roasted Broccoli or if you are short on time you can always get an easy store-bought box of dirty rice or red beans & rice.

Also serve some Cajun Aioli, Homemade Tartar Sauce or Jalapeno Tartar Sauce on the side and a few lime or lemon wedges. Add a green veggie and your dinner plate is complete.

blackened tilapia filets with lime wedges and dirty rice

Recipe Tips

Follow these tips to make sure this Blackened Tilapia recipe turns out perfectly!

  • Use quality tilapia that has a nice firm white flesh with little to no odor.
  • Don’t skimp on the seasonings! You want those big bold Cajun flavors!
  • Wait until your vegetable oil is nice and preheated before adding the fish.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan, or you will risk steaming the fish instead of “frying”. Cook in two batches if you need to.
  • For best results don’t overcook the tilapia. It is a quick cooking fish that will be cooked through to 145 degrees internal temp in short time.

More EASY Fish Recipes

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WATCH SUSIE ON FOOD NETWORK!

โญโญโญโญโญ

The new gameshow, 100 Cooks, premieres on Food Network June 7th, 2026 at 9est/8cst. I hope you will tune in!

blackened tilapia recipe on a platter

15 Minute Blackened Tilapia Recipe

A delicious mild tasting white fish that is coated in Cajun seasonings and quickly pan fried until the outside is slightly "blackened" and the inside is nice and flaky.
5 from 2 votes
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 7 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Author: Susie Weinrich

Equipment

Ingredients

Sauce for Serving

Instructions
 

  • Pat the tilapia filets dry, then divide 1 tablespoon oil across the tilapia and rub on all sides.
    (4) 6 oz fresh Tilapia Filets
  • In a small bowl mix the seasonings. Stir to make sure no clumps of brown sugar remain.
    2 tsp smoked paprika, 1 ยฝ tsp brown sugar, 1 ยฝ tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp dried thyme, 1 tsp kosher salt, ยพ tsp onion powder , ยฝ tsp black pepper, optional for heat – ยผ teaspoon cayenne pepper, ยพ tsp garlic powder
  • Sprinkle the seasoning on all sides of the tilapia and lightly press to adhere to the fish.
  • Heat a couple tablespoons of oil in a non-stick skillet. Once hot carefully lay the tilapia filets in the pan. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side.
    Take care not to overcrowd the pan or the fish will steam instead of blacken. You will be better off cooking in two batches then trying to fit them all in a smaller pan.
    3 Tbsp oil
  • Remove from the pan and squeeze lime wedges (or lemon) over the fish filets.
    Let cool for a few minutes and then serve!

Serving

Recipe Tips and Notes:

ย 
SALMON: To try a similar recipe made with salmon you can check out this Cajun Salmon!ย 
Did you make this recipe?Connect with me and let me know by commenting below!
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The Best Black Bean Salsa

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A really fresh and delicious Black Bean Salsa recipe made with canned black beans, frozen corn, tomatoes, white onion, cilantro and avocado. It is seasoned with lime juice, garlic and olive oil. Serve it up with margaritas and tortilla chips.

a white bowl filled with black bean salsa and tortilla chips

This Black Bean Salsa makes a great appetizer or snack, or a side dish for a Mexican Cuisine Dinner, like Beef Enchilada Casserole, Fish Tacos, or Smothered Burritos !

It can be whipped up in no time, or you can make it ahead and have it marinating in the fridge. Just remember to wait to add the avocado right before serving so they don’t brown or break down.

RELATED: Restaurant Style Salsa & Corn Salsa

Ingredients

Canned Black Beans: Use a good canned black bean. Open the can and pour it into a fine mesh sieve, run some water over the beans to remove the sauce on the beans.

Frozen Corn: We prefer to use frozen corn for this recipe because it is a little more crisp tender than canned corn. To thaw simply place the corn in a fine mesh sieve and run warm water over the corn until it is thawed, just a minute or 2.

ingredients for black bean salsa on a table

White Onion: It is the classic onion used in Mexican style cuisine. It adds a crisp, clean sharpness that pairs perfectly with the black beans, corn, and tomatoes.

Tomatoes: A Roma tomato or a vine ripe tomato will work here. You want to lightly de-seed the tomatoes before using them in the black bean salsa. Then dice then about the size of the corn and black beans

De-seeding Tomatoes

Cut the tomatoes in halves or quarters. Very lightly squeeze the tomatoes over the sink so that they release some or all of the seeds and juice surrounding the seeds. Take care not to over-squeeze and bruise the tomatoes. You can also use your fingers to rake the seeds out of the tomatoes.

See photo below:

lightly seeded tomatoes

Avocado: You want to look for a ripe avocado (see below for tips). If you have smaller avocados, use 2. Add the avocado last so that it doesn’t break down when you stir the salsa.

Finding Ripe Avocados

Look for dark, dark green, almost black avocados. They should be slightly soft to the touch. If you remove the little brown stem from the end of the avocado the flesh under should be a nice bright green. Not yellowish and not brown.

Cilantro: You want to use fresh cilantro and chop up the leaves and the tender stems. Add as much or as little cilantro as you like.

Lime: The juice of about 2 limes adds a really nice bright note to the salsa.

Garlic: One fresh minced garlic clove is all you need to add a perfect garlic flavor to the black bean salsa.

Olive Oil: This is kind of the delivery system for the flavor of garlic, kosher salt and lime. You can also use a canola oil in it’s place.

White Vinegar: Adds a punch of vinegar tang to the black bean salsa.

Step By Step

  1. Prep Veggies and Ingredients

    2. Grab a large bowl and add the drained and rinsed black beans, thawed corn, chopped onions, chopped and de-seeded tomatoes, chopped cilantro and optional jalapeno.

    black beans, corn, tomatoes, cilantro and onion in a bowl
  2. Make Lime Marinade

    3. In a small bowl or glass measuring cup whisk together the garlic, lime juice, olive oil and vinegar.

    lime and olive oil in a glass measuring cup
  3. Combine Marinade and Salsa

    4. Pour the marinade over the salsa and toss to combine.

  4. Add Avocado

    5. Add the diced avocado right before serving, carefully stir it into the Black Bean Salsa.

  5. Serve with Tortilla Chips

    6. Serve the Black Bean Salsa right away or pop in the fridge to marinate.

    If you are serving later, wait to put in the avocado until right before you serve. That way it won’t brown or break down in the salsa.

    A tortilla chip scooping black bean salsa

Salsa Bar and Taco Parties

I could 100% make a full dinner out of chips and dip! If you want to put together a Salsa Bar or Taco party I have two great resources to help you plan these:

4 salsa photos on a grid

Salsa Bar at Home

Make an amazing salsa bar at home with really great salsa recipes and tortilla chips.

Get the recipe โ†’

a sign that says tacos and palm trees to the side

Taco Dinner Party

Hosting a Taco Bar Party is one of the best ways to host a dinner or celebration, especially for a larger group. Everyone pretty much loves tacos, right?

Get the recipe โ†’

More Salsa Recipes

A tortilla chip scooping black bean salsa

The Best Black Bean Salsa Recipe + Video

A fresh Black Bean Salsa made with canned black beans, frozen corn, fresh tomatoes, white onion, and cilantro, flavored with a lime and garlic marinade. Just add tortilla chips!
5 from 1 vote
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Servings: 5 cups
Author: Susie Weinrich

Ingredients

  • 15 oz can black beans - drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup frozen corn - thawed * see notes
  • 3 roma tomatoes - lightly de-seeded, and chopped (about 1 ยฝ cups)
  • ยฝ cup white onion - finely diced
  • โ…“ cup fresh cilantro - chopped
  • optional – 1 jalapeno - chopped
  • 1 garlic clove - minced
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ยผ cup oil - -olive oil or canola
  • 3 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1 Tbsp white vinegar
  • 1 avocado - diced

Instructions
 

  • In a large bowl add the black beans, corn, tomatoes, onion, and cilantro.
    Optionally add a chopped jalapeno: only use the green flesh for little to no heat, use the green and white pith for medium heat, add the green, white pith and seeds for all the heat!
    15 oz can black beans , 1 cup frozen corn , 3 roma tomatoes , ยฝ cup white onion , โ…“ cup fresh cilantro , optional – 1 jalapeno
    lightly seeded tomatoes
  • In a separate bowl combine the garlic, kosher salt, oil, lime juice and vinegar. Whisk to combine.
    1 garlic clove , 1 tsp kosher salt, ยผ cup oil, 3 Tbsp lime juice , 1 Tbsp white vinegar
    lime and olive oil in a glass measuring cup
  • Pour the lime juice mixture over the black bean mixture.
  • Stir it all together to combine. Taste for additional seasoning; salt or lime juice.
  • Add the avocado right before serving and lightly toss one more time.
    1 avocado
    black beans, corn, tomatoes, cilantro and onion in a bowl
  • Serve with tortilla chips.

Make ahead and storing

  • This Black Bean Salsa can be made ahead and kept in the fridge for 24 hours.
    Just be sure to leave the avocado out until right before it is time to serve.

Recipe Tips and Notes:

ย 
THAWING FROZEN CORN: I like to place the frozen corn in a fine mesh sieve and run warm water over the corn until it is thawed. This happens very quickly, about 1-2 minutes.
DE-SEEDING TOMATOES: Cut the tomatoes in half or into quarters. Very lightly squeeze the tomatoes so that the seeds and liquid surrounding the seeds comes out. Take care not to over squeeze and bruise the tomatoes. You can also use your fingers to rake the seeds out of the tomatoes.ย 
JALAPENO HEAT: Choose your level of heat with the jalapeno.
  • None to very little heat- just use the green flesh of the jalapeno.
  • Medium heat- use the green and inner white pith of the jalapeno.
  • All the heat- use the whole jalapeno, including the seeds.
Did you make this recipe?Connect with me and let me know by commenting below!
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Tequila Cinnamon Lemon Drop

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If you love tequila and are looking for a super sophisticated and unbelievably delicious cocktail, this Tequila Cinnamon Lemon Drop is what you need! It is a take on a Vodka Lemon Drop… but this one is made with Aรฑejo Tequila mixed with cinnamon simple syrup and lemon juice. Served in a stemmed glass with a cinnamon sugar rim.

Coupe glass with a cinnamon sugar rim with a cinnamon stick and a cinnamon tequila lemon drop cocktail

The flavors of cinnamon and lemon go together SO WELL, just like in this Grilled Lemon and Reposado Tequila .

We also love a straight forward Tequila Lemon Drop with just silver tequila, lemon and simple syrup. So clean and crisp!

Cinnamon Simple Syrup

Cinnamon Simple Syrup imparts the most delicious warm flavor in this Lemon Drop. The sweet cinnamon is the perfect balance to the bright, tart lemon flavor.

Cinnamon Simple Syrup in a jar with cinnamon sticks to the side

Cinnamon Simple Syrup

A 3 ingredient sugar syrup that is flavored with cinnamon sticks. Goes great in this Lemon Drop Cocktail!

Get the recipe โ†’

It is super easy to make Cinnamon Simple Syrup. It is equal parts sugar and water mixed with cinnamon sticks.

  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 cup water
  • 3 cinnamon sticks, broken

Simmer together for a few minutes and let steep off the heat for about 2-4 hours. Strain out the cinnamon sticks and store in the fridge for 3 months.

Aรฑejo Tequila

Aรฑejo tequila is the aged version of tequila. It is caramel in color and has flavors of vanilla and caramel, is is the tequila version of a really good whiskey.

Some brands that we love are:

  • Believe it or not the Costco Kirkland Aรฑejo Tequila is AMAZING!!! Some call it Costco-migas because it is speculated that it is actually Casamigos.
  • Casamigos
  • Patron
ingredients for a tequila cinnamon lemon drop on a table

Aรฑejo is not a tequila you want to mix with too many ingredients. You still want to be able to taste the complex flavors. That is why it works so well in this Cinnamon Lemon Drop.

Glassware

A lemon drop is traditionally served in a stemmed glass like a coupe or martini glass. We LOVE a good coupe glass so that is usually what we choose.

Dipping a coupe glass rim in cinnamon sugar

More Aรฑejo Tequila Cocktails

Tequila Lemon Drop made with cinnamon Simple syrup in a stemmed glass with a cinnamon stick on the side

Tequila Cinnamon Lemon Drop

An unique take on a Vodka Lemon Drop… this one is made with Aรฑejo tequila mixed with cinnamon simple syrup and lemon juice.
5 from 1 vote
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 drink
Author: Susie Weinrich

Equipment

Ingredients

Garnish – all optional

Instructions
 

Glass Prep

  • Pour sugar and cinnamon on a flat plate or surface. Shimmy or stir to combine.
    1 Tbsp sugar, 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • Run a lemon wedge around the rim of your stemmed glass. Dip the rim of the glass in the cinnamon sugar.
  • Set aside.

Cinnamon Tequila Lemon Drop

  • In a cocktail shaker add a few cubes of ice.
  • Measure in the tequila, cinnamon simple syrup, and lemon juice. Shake vigorously for 20-30 seconds.
    2 oz Aรฑejo tequila, 1 oz cinnamon simple syrup, 1 oz lemon juice
  • Strain into the prepared glass.
  • Optionally zest a lemon over the glass and garnish with a lemon twist or cinnamon stick.

Recipe Tips and Notes:

ย 
INSPIRATION: This cocktail is based on this classic Tequila Lemon Drop. It is made with silver tequila, lemon juice and simple syrup. It is crisp and clean!
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Deliciosa Hot Honey Margarita

by 3 Comments

I set out to make the VERY BEST Hot Honey Margarita and nailed it…actually you can watch me perfect it since I did it live on Instagram– LOL! I wanted this Hot Honey Margarita to be super honey forward with a nice kick of heat, but still be recognizable as a margarita with a limey saltiness...and whoa did we get the flavors spot on!

a glass of hot honey margarita on a wooden board with red pepper flakes around the table

It is a honey forward margarita recipe that kisses your lips with a little heat, but still has the flavors of lime and tequila in the background. Absolute perfection.

RELATED: Pineapple Jalapeno Margarita

Two Secrets To Making Hot Honey Margaritas

The first secret to a really good hot honey margarita; you CANNOT shake it over ice. It needs to be shaken dry (without ice) or stirred vigorously so the hot honey can incorporate with the cocktail before it gets combined with ice.

The ice will slightly solidify the honey and not allow it to fully combine with the liquor and lime juice. By shaking/stirring it in first you get a beautiful blend of flavors.

a honey comb spoon drizzling hot honey into a cocktail jigger

The second secret is to use a couple extra red pepper flakes when you stir/shake the cocktail. The hot honey is nice, but I found that it didn’t produce the little kick of heat I expected from a HOT honey margarita!

Ingredients

Of course this cocktail includes usual suspects of a margarita; tequila, lime juice, Cointreau, and kosher salt. But then we add a little hot honey for sweetness and red pepper flakes for an extra kick of heat.

Silver Tequila- A mid-grade silver tequila will work great in this recipe. We actually really love the Costco brand tequila, Kirkland… some call it “Costomigas” because it is speculated that it is actually Casamigos Tequila! Cazadores and Espolon are also great.

jalapenos in tequila in a glass bottle

Jalapeno Infused Tequila

For those of you that like it extra spicy, this Jalapeno Infused Tequila would be great in this Hot Honey Margarita!

Get the recipe โ†’

Fresh Lime Juice- No exceptions, fresh squeezed lime juice is what you want every time you make a margarita… any margarita. This citrus press makes quick work of getting the juice and is very affordable, under $15.

Cointreau- This is an orange flavored liqueur that is commonly used in margaritas. I prefer Cointreau because it has a very clean orange flavor. But it can be pricey, about $23, so if you are trying to save some money a DeKuypers triple sec will be much more affordable.

ingredients for a hot honey margarita on a table

Hot Honey- You can make your own hot honey or use a store-bought one! This is one of the main flavors in the drink, so don’t skip it!

Red Pepper Flakes- If you are making your own hot honey you definitely need some red pepper flakes (and honey). But I also like to add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the shaker to give the drink a little extra heat. Just enough to make your lips tingle. If you want it extra spicy use a Sicilian Chili Flake!

Kosher Salt- Adding a little kosher salt to the rim of the glass balances all the flavors. We love Diamond Crystal Kosher Salt or Morton’s Kosher Salt. You can buy “Margarita Salt” but you will just pay more because it is called “Margarita”.

Soda Water- I always love a little bubble in my margarita. I think it enhances the flavors. Just a splash on the top is all you need. I usually just crack open a La Croix or Topo Chico from my fridge. You can make a Ranch Water with the rest of the Topo Chico.

Hot Honey

You can make your own Homemade Hot Honey or store-bought Hot Honey is great too. Mike’s Hot Honey is a popular brand.

We like to keep our hot honey flavor clean with just honey and red pepper flakes. That way the honey flavor is pronounced and the red pepper flakes just introduce the right amount of heat.

If you do make your own hot honey and you like it extra spicy, these Sicilian Chili Flakes are extra hot and make great hot honey!

Step By Step

  1. Prep Glass Rim.

    2. Place a tablespoon of kosher salt on a flat plate or surface. Run a lime wedge around the rim of a glass. Then dip the rim in the salt, making sure it adheres to the rim.

    Add some crushed ice or one large ice cube to the glass and set aside.

    a glass being dipped into kosher salt
  2. Add Ingredients To Shaker, No Ice.

    3. To a shaker, without ice, add the tequila, Cointreau, lime juice, hot honey, and a pinch of red pepper flakes.

    pouring lime juice into a cocktail shaker without ice
  3. Shake Vigorously.

    4. Give it a vigorous shake for about 20-30 seconds, making sure the honey combines with the other ingredients.

  4. Strain Into Prepared Glass.

    5. Using a small fine mesh strainer set over the prepared glass strain the Hot Honey Margarita over ice. Give it a good stir in the glass to chill it on the ice.

    Top with a little soda water.

    staining a hot honey margarita through a fine mesh strainer
  5. Salud!

    6. Garnish the glass with a lime wedge or wheel and enjoy!

More Margarita Recipes

We love tequila cocktails so much here at Mom’s Dinner, especially Margaritas! Here are a couple other delicious Margaritas to try:

hot honey margarita in a short glass with a salt rim and red pepper flakes on the tables with hot honey in a jar in the background

Hot Honey Margarita Recipe

A really delicious Hot Honey Margarita recipe that is super honey forward with a nice kiss of heat, yet is still recognizable as a margarita with flavors of lime and salty tequila.
5 from 2 votes
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 drink
Author: Susie Weinrich

Equipment

Ingredients

Hot Honey Margarita

Glass Rim & Garnish

Instructions
 

Glass Rim Prep

  • Place a Tablespoon of kosher salt of a flat plate or surface.
    kosher salt
  • Run a lime wedge around a glass rim.
  • Dip the glass in the salt so that it adheres to the rim. Fill the glass with crushed ice or one large ice cube. Set aside.
    dipping a cocktail glass in a plate of kosher salt

Hot Honey Margarita Recipe

  • In a cocktail shaker or jar WITHOUT ICE measure in the tequila, lime juice, hot honey, red pepper flakes and Cointreau. Vigorously shake or stir for 20-30 seconds so that the honey melts into the cocktail.
    Do not shake over ice or the honey will slightly solidify and not mix in with the drink well.
    1.5 oz silver tequila, 1 oz fresh squeezed lime juice, 1 oz hot honey , .5 oz Cointreau, healthy pinch of pepper flakes
    pouring lime juice into cocktail shaker with out ice
  • Stain through a fine mesh sieve or cocktail strainer over the ice in the glass. Top with a splash of soda. Garnish with a fresh lime wedge.
    fresh lime wedge, splash soda water
  • Salud!
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Hot Honey Recipe; Yummy Sweet Heat

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We’ve all seen the craze of hot honey brands popping up on the grocery store shelf…. at $15-ish a bottle I decided I needed to try my hand at making Hot Honey at home. Guess what, it’s super simple and only takes 2 ingredients; honey and red pepper flakes. Use it in cocktails or on food for a little sweet heat.

Homemade Hot Honey in a mason jar

Once you make the hot honey it can be kept in an airtight container in your pantry for up to 3 months. Try it in a Hot Honey Margarita, you won’t be disappointed!

2 Ingredients

Honey – Any honey will work here. Since you are infusing the honey I would go with a less expensive honey, like the honey bear or store brand will work just fine.

Red Pepper Flakes – Any red pepper flakes will work, store brand, organic, etc….

Sicilian Chili Flakes

Sicilian Pepper Flakes

If you like it super duper hot, these Sicilian Pepper Flakes will do the trick!

Uses for Hot Honey

  • Drizzle over Pizza: Add a drizzle of hot honey over your favorite pizza for a delicious sweet and spicy flavor contrast. Also excellent for dipping the crust!
  • Mix into Salad Dressings: Use hot honey as an ingredient in salad dressings to add depth of flavor and a touch of heat to your salads.
  • Glaze for Grilled Meats: Brush hot honey onto grilled meats such as chicken, pork, or shrimp during the last few minutes of cooking for a caramelized glaze.
  • Stir into Cocktails: Incorporate hot honey into cocktails like margaritas, whiskey sours, or even a spicy twist on a mojito for a unique flavor profile. We love this hot honey margarita too! (just be sure to incorporate the hot honey into the cocktail without ice first and then pour the drink over ice or the honey will solidify in the shaker with the ice)
  • Marinade for Wings: Create a marinade with hot honey, soy sauce, and garlic, then coat chicken wings before baking or grilling for a sticky, flavorful coating.
  • Drizzle over Fried Chicken: Elevate your fried chicken game by drizzling hot honey over crispy chicken pieces for a sweet and spicy finish.
Fried chicken sandwich with hot honey being drizzled over top
  • Mix into Dipping Sauces: Blend hot honey with mayo, mustard, or yogurt to create flavorful dipping sauces for fries, chicken tenders, or veggies. Amazing used in this Homemade Honey Mustard or Honey Butter!
  • Spread on Toast or Biscuits: Spread hot honey onto warm toast, biscuits, or cornbread for a sweet and spicy breakfast or snack.
  • Topping for Ice Cream: Drizzle hot honey over vanilla ice cream or gelato for a decadent dessert with a spicy twist.
  • Dip for Cheese: Pair hot honey with cheese boards, particularly with creamy cheeses like brie or goat cheese, for a delicious sweet and spicy contrast.
  • Glaze for Roasted Vegetables: Toss roasted vegetables with hot honey and a squeeze of lemon for a flavorful glaze that caramelizes in the oven.
  • Incorporate into Stir-Fries: Add a splash of hot honey to stir-fries for a touch of sweetness and heat that pairs well with savory ingredients.
  • Mix into BBQ Sauce: Enhance store-bought or homemade BBQ sauce by mixing in hot honey for added complexity and a spicy kick.
  • Garnish for Charcuterie Boards: Use hot honey as a drizzle or dip for charcuterie boards, complementing cured meats with its sweet and spicy flavor.
red pepper flakes and honey in a fine mesh sieve over a bowl

Some Like It Hot

Some super simple recipes you can sub in hot honey right away:

hot honey in a mason jar with a honey stick to the side and red pepper flakes on the cutting board

Hot Honey Recipe

A homemade version of the Hot Honey you see in all the grocery stores. Just need 2 ingredients to make this Hot Honey Recipe
5 from 1 vote
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 2 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
steep: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 12 minutes
Servings: 1 cup
Author: Susie Weinrich

Equipment

  • Saucepan
  • a jar or container with a lid for storage – mason jars work great!

Ingredients

  • 1 cup honey
  • 2 tablespoon (heaping) red pepper flakes - *see notes

Instructions
 

  • Place the honey in a small saucepan over medium-low heat.
    1 cup honey
  • Measure in the red pepper flakes… if you want it really hot add 3-4 tablespoon red pepper flakes!
    2 Tbsp (heaping) red pepper flakes
  • Bring the honey to a light simmer, stirring occasionally.
  • Once the honey is at a simmer remove from the heat and let steep for 30 minutes to 2 hour. The longer it steeps the hotter the honey will be.
    honey and red pepper flakes steeping in a pot to make hot honey
  • Using a fine mesh sieve set over a bowl strain the red pepper flakes from the honey. Leave the strainer over the bowl for a good 15 minutes to give the honey time to slowly drain from the red pepper flakes.
    red pepper flakes and honey in a fine mesh sieve over a bowl
  • Transfer the honey to a clean container with a lid and use immediately or store for later use.
  • Can keep at room temp in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Using Hot Honey- can be used in drinks or on food:

  • Use to make a Hot Honey Margarita or other spicy cocktails (this Hot Toddy would be a great cocktail with Hot Honey!).
  • Dip pizza crust or drizzle over pizza.
  • Drizzle on chicken fingers or fried chicken and toss to coat.
  • Add to BBQ sauce, salad dressings, or meat marinades for a kick of heat.
  • Use as a garnish for cheeses (like goat cheese, cream cheese and brie) and charcuterie boards.
  • Glaze roasted veggies, especially brussels sprouts!
  • Sub for regular honey in this Honey Butter Recipe.

Recipe Tips and Notes:

EXTRA SPICY: For extra spicy hot honey use a Sicilian Pepper Flake!ย 
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3 Ingredient Cinnamon Simple Syrup

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We love to use simple syrup in our cocktails and tea! Then the other day I thought “I might like to infuse some simple syrup with a little cinnamon” …as we are currently obsessed with cocktails flavored with cinnamon! This recipe for Cinnamon Simple Syrup is so tasty and warm. You just need three ingredients to make Cinnamon Simple Syrup; water, sugar and cinnamon sticks.

Cinnamon Simple Syrup in a jar with cinnamon sticks to the side

The cinnamon flavor is excellent paired with Aรฑejo tequila, like in this Cinnamon Lemon Drop Cocktail! Can be used in place of the honey in this Tequila Hot Toddy. Or exchange the agave syrup in this Grilled Lemon and Reposado Tequila cocktail (our favorite!!!).

Ingredients

Sugar: White granulated sugar is what you are looking for when making this cinnamon infused simple syrup.

Water: Just water from your tap will do, no need for anything fancy here!

Cinnamon Sticks: You can buy whole cinnamon sticks in the spice aisle at your grocery store. Some stores like Sprouts or Whole Foods may even have them in bulk so you can just buy 3 at a time.

raw cinnamon sticks

Ideas for Using Cinnamon Simple Syrup

Lemonade: Great to sub in this Lemonade Recipe!

Cinnamon Spiced Coffee: Add a splash of cinnamon simple syrup to your morning coffee for a delightful spiced flavor. It’s a cozy twist to your regular cup of joe.

Cocktail Mixer: Use cinnamon simple syrup as a sweetener in cocktails. It pairs well with tequila, whiskey, rum, or vodka-based drinks, adding a warm and aromatic touch.

Tequila Lemon Drop made with cinnamon Simple syrup in a stemmed glass with a cinnamon stick on the side

Baking Enhancer: Brush cinnamon simple syrup onto cakes, muffins, or pastries to add sweetness and a hint of cinnamon flavor. It also helps keep baked goods moist.

Fruit Salad Dressing: Drizzle cinnamon simple syrup over fresh fruit salads for a touch of sweetness and warmth. It complements fruits like apples, pears, and oranges beautifully.

Mocktail Ingredient: Create non-alcoholic beverages by mixing cinnamon simple syrup with sparkling water or soda. Garnish with a cinnamon stick for an extra touch of flavor and aroma.

hot toddy made with tequila in a stemmed glass

Ice Cream Topping: Pour warm cinnamon simple syrup over vanilla ice cream for a simple yet indulgent dessert. It adds a lovely contrast of temperatures and flavors.

Flavoring for Yogurt or Oatmeal: Stir cinnamon simple syrup into plain yogurt or oatmeal for a sweet and spiced breakfast treat. It’s a quick and easy way to elevate your morning meal.

Dipping Sauce for Churros: Serve cinnamon simple syrup alongside freshly fried churros for dipping. The combination of warm syrup and crispy dough creates a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.

More Simple Syrup Recipes

Cinnamon Simple Syrup in a jar with cinnamon sticks to the side

Cinnamon Simple Syrup Recipe

A super easy recipe for Cinnamon Infused Simple Syrup. Great to use in coffee, lattes, cocktails, teas and even food! Just 3 Ingredients.
5 from 1 vote
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 2 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
steeping and cooling: 2 hours
Servings: 1 cup
Author: Susie Weinrich

Equipment

  • Saucepan
  • jar with a lid or container for storage

Ingredients

  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 cup water
  • 3-4 cinnamon sticks

Instructions
 

  • In a small saucepan over medium heat add the sugar and water. Stir and heat through until the sugar is melted.
    1 cup sugar , 1 cup water
  • Crack the cinnamon sticks in half, allowing more flavor to infuse the simply syrup. Drop into the simple syrup and very lightly simmer, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes.
    3-4 cinnamon sticks
  • Remove from the heat and allow to cool and steep for 2-4 hours. Stir occasionally if possible.
  • Remove the cinnamon sticks and pour into a bottle or jar with a lid and refrigerate for up to 3 months.

Using Cinnamon Simple Syrup

  • Use in drinks, cocktails, teas, and even with food like drizzled over fruits or granola and yogurt!
  • Make this Tequila Cinnamon Lemon Drop right away!

Recipe Tips and Notes:

ย 
Classic Simple Syrup recipe
1 Minute Microwave Simple Syrup
ย 
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Chocolate Chip Protein Balls

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This is a super easy, no-bake protein ball snack filled with healthy ingredients, that still taste good when all combined! Old fashioned oats, hemp hearts, ground flax seed and chocolate chips are mixed with creamy peanut butter and honey. The mixture can be rolled into delicious little balls that tastes like chocolate chip oatmeal cookie dough!

protein balls on a piece of parchment paper

I love having these in the fridge. It is a great go-to sweet treat after lunch or dinner, that isn’t overly sweet or bad for you!

RELATED: CARAMEL APPLE NACHOS and MONSTER TRAIL MIX

Ingredients

Hemp Hearts- I love hemp hearts they are chewy and good for you. I will add them to yogurt and fruit sometimes too. Keep them in your fridge and they will last a long time!

Oats- Old fashioned oats (not quick cooking oats) is what you want for this protein ball recipe.

Mini Chocolate Chips- I think that mini chocolate chips work better than traditional sized chocolate morsels in these small bite sized snacks.

chocolate chip protein ball dough in a bowl

Creamy Peanut Butter- Use any nut butter that you family loves. We happened to have Jif peanut butter when I made these, but anything should work.

Ground Flaxseed- This not only helps bind the protein balls together, ground flax is really good for you. And if you have kids (or adults) with potty troubles, this will get things moving.

Keep in your fridge and add to smoothies too!

Honey- Adds a little sweetness and helps stick everything together.

Vanilla- A little flavor enhancer.

More Snacks

Chocolate Chip Protein Ball in a bowl

Chocolate Chip Protein Ball Recipe

A delicious little snack ball that is filled with protein and healthy ingredients. It tastes like chocolate chip oatmeal cookie dough.
5 from 1 vote
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Refrigerate: 30 minutes
Servings: 15 protein balls
Calories: 173kcal
Author: Susie Weinrich

Ingredients

Instructions
 

  • Place all the ingredients in a bowl and stir to mix and completely combine.
    1 cup old fashioned oats, ยผ cup hemp hearts, ยฝ cup creamy peanut butter, ยฝ cup ground flaxseed, ยฝ cup mini chocolate chips, โ…“ cup honey, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, pinch ground cinnamon
    chocolate chip protein ball dough in a bowl
  • Cover and place in the fridge for 30 minutes.
  • Scoop about tablespoon size balls using spoons or melon baller/cookie scoop. Compress together with the palms of your hand, then lightly roll into smooth ping pong sized balls.
    protein balls on a piece of parchment paper
  • Transfer to an airtight container and keep in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
    Can be frozen for up to 3 months. Let thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temp for about an hour or so.
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Serving: 1protein ball | Calories: 173kcal | Carbohydrates: 18g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 0.01g | Cholesterol: 1mg | Sodium: 43mg | Potassium: 116mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 11g | Vitamin A: 31IU | Vitamin C: 0.1mg | Calcium: 33mg | Iron: 1mg

Aperol Tequila Spritz Cocktail

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I love an Aperol Spritz but I also love tequila… So this Aperol Tequila Spritz Cocktail is the perfect compromise for Happy Hour. It is a blend of just three ingredients; Aรฑejo tequila, Aperol, and soda water. The Aรฑejo tequila flavor blends perfectly with the orange bitter sweetness of the Aperol… and of course the soda water keeps things nice and bubbly.

Aperol Tequila Spritz in a stemmed glass with an orange slice

This is a great Spring and Summer cocktail. Serve it up in a stemmed glass, over ice, garnished with an orange slice.

Ingredients

You only need 3 ingredients to put this Aperol Tequila cocktail together:

Aperol, Anejo tequila, orange and soda water

Aรฑejo Tequila- this is an aged tequila that is dark in color- looks like whiskey. It also has really deep flavors of vanilla and caramel. It pairs PERFECTLY with orange flavors (Aperol).

We also love the Aรฑejo Orange combo in an Orange Tequila Smash, Aรฑejo Old Fashioned and Aรฑejo Soda.

Aรฑejo Tequila Brands

Most tequila brands will have an Aรฑejo. But here are some of the brands we love:

Believe it or not… Costco Kirkland Aรฑejo Tequila is AMAZING!

Casamigos

Patron

Aperol- It is an Italian bitter aperitif made of gentian, rhubarb, and cinchona, among other ingredients. It has a vibrant red hue.ย It tastes like a cross between orange and grapefruit.

It is most popularly used in an Aperol Spritz and Paper Plane

Soda Water- this Aperol and Tequila cocktail is a spritz so it needs some bubbles. A little soda water is perfect to top it all off.

More Amazing Tequila Cocktails

Aperol and Tequila in a glass with ice and topped with soda water, garnished with an orange

Aperol Tequila Spritz Cocktail

A super refreshing Aperol and Tequila cocktail served over ice and garnished with an orange slice. Perfect Summer and Spring cocktail. Like an Aperol Spritz, but made with Aรฑejo tequila instead of Prosecco.
5 from 1 vote
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 3 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Servings: 1 drink
Author: Susie Weinrich

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 1.5 oz Aรฑejo tequila
  • 1 oz Aperol
  • 3 oz soda water
  • garnish with an orange slice

Instructions
 

  • In a stemmed glass add some ice.
  • Pour in the tequila, aperol and then stir.
    1.5 oz Aรฑejo tequila, 1 oz Aperol
    pouring aperol in a stemmed glass
  • Top with soda water.
    3 oz soda water
    pouring soda water into aperol and tequila
  • Garnish with an orange slice.
  • Cheers!
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Red Skin Mashed Potatoes

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We don’t mess around with our mashed potato recipes here at Mom’s Dinner. Potatoes on their own can be bland. They’re a perfect canvas to add a TON of flavor like sour cream, cream cheese, garlic, butter, etc… When I was testing these Red Skin Mashed Potatoes I found that adding diced shallots and garlic sauteed in salted butter, along with sour cream, half and half, and salt/pepper made for AMAZING flavor.

A bowl of red skin mashed potatoes with salt and pepper to the side

Put an extra pat of salted butter on top to melt all over the red skin mashed potatoes and then sprinkle on some extra cracked black pepper.

We make sure our mashed potatoes are PACKED with flavor here at Mom’s Dinner; like this cult favorite Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes and Yukon Gold Mashed Potatoes.

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Red Mashed Potatoes Ingredients

  • Red Skin Potatoes- Also called new potatoes, these are smaller potatoes that have red skins. They are more tender and less starchy than a russet potato.
    Make sure you cut out any parts that look bad on the outside, but you don’t need to peel these potatoes. The red skins are super thin and totally edible.
  • Butter- Salted butter is a great option.
Ingredients for red skin mashed potatoes on a table
  • Shallots and Garlic- a shallot is like a mild, tender onion and is the perfect option for these potatoes. You need about โ…“-1/2 cup shallots, which will be about 1 large shallot.
    The shallots and garlic get sautรฉed lightly in the butter. The flavor of the two infuse the butter… which in turn infuses the potatoes. YUM!
  • Half & Half- This is the milk that we use to whip up the red skin mashed potatoes. You can also use whole milk if that is what you have.
  • Sour Cream + mashed red skin potatoes is a match made in heaven! The sour cream adds a TON of flavor to the mashed potatoes.
  • Kosher Salt & Black Pepper– Mashed potatoes need more salt than you would think!

Watch: How to Make Mashed Red Potatoes

How to Make Red Skinned Mashed Potatoes

  1. Boil Potatoes

    2. Quarter the potatoes (or cut into 1-2 inch pieces). Place in a large pot of water, covering the potatoes by 1-2 inches. Add kosher salt and place over medium high heat. Once the pot boils, turn the heat down to medium and simmer/boil for 10-15 minutes.

    START POTATOES IN COOL WATER! You specifically want to start your red skin potatoes in COOL tap water.

    By starting them in cool tap water you allow the water and the potato to rise together in temperature, ensuring an even cook all the way to the center of the potato.

    If you bring the water to a boil first it will result in a potato that has the first layer boiled to death and falling apart by the time the middle is done!

  2. Sautรฉ Shallots and Garlic

    3. Place a skillet over medium low heat and sautรฉ the shallots and garlic for about 3 minutes. Then set aside to cool.

    shallots and garlic sautรฉing in butter
  3. Dry Potatoes

    4. Drain the potatoes and then return to the pot, place over low heat and stir for about a minute. This removes some of the excess moisture from the potatoes.

    boiled potatoes in a pot drying over low heat
  4. Mash The Potatoes.

    5. Place all the ingredients in a bowl for mixing (or leave in the pot if it works for mashing); potatoes, butter/shallot mixture, sour cream, half and half, kosher salt and pepper.

    red skin mashed potatoes in a pot

    With a hand held mixer blend the potatoes on medium speed until they are mashed perfectly. These red skin mashed potatoes are meant to be slightly chunky because of the skins, so don’t try to get them perfectly silky.

What To Serve With Red Skin Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes are such a classic side dish. They are the perfect comfort food that goes with just about anything. Here are some of our favorite main dish recipes to serve with these red skin mashed potatoes:

  1. BBQ Pork Tenderloin
  2. Rosemary Pork Tenderloin
  3. Ham Balls
  4. Meatloaf
  5. Chicken Fried Steak

STORING & FREEZING

Red skin mashed potatoes store really well, making them a great make-ahead side. Once cooled, transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk, cream, or even a little butter to bring back that creamy texture.

For freezing, let the mashed potatoes cool completely, then portion them into freezer-safe bags or containers (flattening them helps them thaw faster). They'll keep well for about 1-2 months. When reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge if you can, then warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring in extra dairy as needed to smooth everything back out.

You can also scoop the mashed potatoes into individual balls (an ice cream scoop works perfectly), place them on a parchment-lined sheet pan, and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer bag for easy storage. When you're ready to use them, add the frozen mashed potato scoops to a skillet with a splash of milk (and a little butter if you like) and warm them gently over medium-low heat. As they soften, stir and break them up until smooth and creamy again

More Delish Mashed Potato Recipes

Red Skin Mashed Potatoes in a bowl with a spoon to the side

Red Skin Mashed Potatoes Recipe

Shallots and garlic are sauteed in butter, then red skin potatoes are boiled to tender perfection with the skins on. The two are blended together with sour cream and half and half added. These are SUPER FLAVORFUL mashed red skin potatoes.
5 from 2 votes
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Mashing: 5 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 8 people
Author: Susie Weinrich

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 4 lbs. red-skinned potatoes - cut into 1-2 inch pieces
  • โ…“ - ยฝ cup very finely diced shallots - this is about 1 large shallot
  • 1 large garlic clove - minced
  • 4 Tbsp. butter
  • 1 cup half and half
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 3 teaspoon Kosher salt - divided
  • ยฝ teaspoon black pepper
  • Chopped parsley - optional

Instructions
 

  • Sautรฉ the shallots and garlic in the 4 Tbsp. butter over medium heat until softened (about 2-3 minutes). Then set aside.
    โ…“ - ยฝ cup very finely diced shallots, 1 large garlic clove, 4 Tbsp. butter
    shallots and garlic sautรฉing in butter
  • Wash and cut the potatoes into 1-2 inch pieces, cut out any sketchy looking parts of the potato.
    Place in a large pot of room temp water, the water should be about 1 inch above the potatoes. Set over medium-high heat and add 2 teaspoon kosher salt to the pot.
    Once the water comes to a boil (may take up to 15 minutes), let the potatoes boil for about 10-12 minutes.
    Pro Tip: We start the potatoes in room temp water so that they cook through evenly.
    4 lbs. red-skinned potatoes
  • Make sure the potatoes are fork tender, then drain and return them to the pot.
    Place the pot of potatoes over low heat and cook, while stirring, for 1-2 minutes to remove the excess moisture.
    boiled potatoes in a pot drying over low heat
  • Remove potatoes from the heat and add in the butter/garlic/shallot mixture, half and half, sour cream, 1 tsp. kosher salt and ยฝ tsp. black pepper.
    1 cup half and half, 1 cup sour cream
    boiled red skin potatoes with sour cream, half and half, butter, shallots and garlic in a bowl
  • Mash with a handheld mixer until combined (these potatoes will not be completely smooth, they are meant to have a lot of texture with the skins etc.).
    red skin mashed potatoes in a pot
  • Taste the potatoes to see if they need more salt at this point (possibly another ยฝ – 1 tsp) and if using, add in the chopped parsley at this point.
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