Written by contributor Jessica Lambi | @jessica.lambi
I love a good Pinterest recipe as much as the next person, but sometimes I’m hesitant to try something new that sounds delicious and easy, only to be disappointed with the end result. With most recipes, it usually takes a few tries and tweaks to get it to my liking. I don’t mind the process of perfecting a recipe, but sometimes I just want to try something new that comes out delicious the first time.
Here are some of my favorite Pinterest recipes, with a few notes, that will guarantee you a delicious meal on the first try:
Vegetarian Chili
Recipe and image via Show Me the Yummy
The absolute best thing about this meal, aside from the fact that it’s healthy and delicious, is the simplicity. Honestly, it’s mostly a matter of tossing all of these ingredients in a slow cooker, or a pot on your stove, and that’s it! I prefer to use red or orange bell peppers for the sweet flavor. Serve with toppings such as tortilla chips, avocado, shredded cheese and sour cream.
Mediterranean Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Recipe and image via Kristine’s Kitchen
Talk about a filling, yet healthy meal. Similarly to the chili recipe, I like that making these recipe is more about the assembly of ingredients than a whole lot of cooking. It’s what makes these recipes fool proof on the first try. If I have them on hand, I like to add complimentary ingredients such as roasted red pepper, chicken sausage, spinach or toasted pine nuts.
Lemon Basil Orzo with Chicken
Recipe and image via Chew Out Loud
I gravitate towards recipes like this one because it includes all of my favorite flavors— basil, lemon, and garlic, usually paired with pasta— and ingredients I’m most comfortable cooking with. I cooked with a whole pound of orzo (I’m the queen of lunch leftovers and wanted extra), and decided to stir fry some sliced zucchini with garlic to mix into the orzo at the end. I loved that just by following this recipe, I came out with a delicious dish on the first try.
Roasted Red Pepper Pasta with Sausage and Spinach
Recipe and Image via Host the Toast
This is definitely a great Saturday or Sunday night meal, or something to make for a special occasion. It’s creamy and filling, and you can never go wrong with pasta. Don’t shy away from the goat cheese. I’m honestly not a huge fan and love it in this dish. It adds a tangy bite and creaminess to the sauce that really goes with the saltiness of the sausage.
These recipes look incredible! And I love that you actually tried them and give your input! It makes so helpful for someone like me because I can’t decide what to make or if I realistically can make it!
http://www.rdsobsessions.com
Yes! That’s usually the problem I have when trying a new recipe: if it’s really as ‘simple’ or realistic as the recipe implies. It’s true these recipes are staples in our house — so you can trust that they’re easy and delicious! — Jess
The Defined Dish’s Salt and Vinegar Wings! We went tried Whole30 this year and this was our FAVORITE recipe we found. We still make these wings now – they are so good! Recipe has directions for baking, but we like to throw them on the grill, too!
http://www.thedefineddish.com/salt-and-vinegar-chicken-wings/
Yum! Those look amazing, thank you for the recommendation — I’ll have to try them, especially on the grill this summer! –Jess
I LOVE the roasted pepper, sausage and goat cheese pasta. If you enjoy that one I recommend this recipe from a fellow Canadian! I usually substitute feta or goat cheese for the ricotta.
https://www.bitememore.com/feedme/271/quick-and-easy-roasted-red-pepper-pasta-
Love your blog, I moved to Providence from Canada and fell in love with New England!
Oh thanks for sharing! xx