### Weeknight-Friendly Fattoush Salad

Presenting our weeknight-friendly fattoush salad! This simple, 1-bowl, 20-minute rendition is our creative interpretation of the traditional Levantine dish. Picture crisp, fresh vegetables combined in a zesty pomegranate dressing along with fragrant mint leaves, crunchy pita chips, and pomegranate arils—absolutely delightful!

It serves as a crisp side dish to complement other Mediterranean and Middle Eastern-inspired fare, or you can add chickpeas to create a light meal on its own. Allow us to guide you through the process!

#### What is Fattoush?

Fattoush is a salad originating from the Levant region, which encompasses several nations in the Eastern Mediterranean. This salad typically features fresh vegetables and herbs, toasted or fried flatbread, and a vibrant spice known as sumac. Pomegranate molasses frequently appears as an ingredient, contributing additional brightness.

Below is our straightforward, inspired version, boasting similarly vibrant flavors and crunchy textures, with an option to make it gluten-free!

#### How to Make Fattoush Salad

Start this salad with a foundation of **freshly chopped romaine** for its crunchy texture and mild flavor.

Next, incorporate various **fresh, crunchy vegetables** like cucumber, tomato, and radish. Utilizing seasonal, tasty vegetables (particularly those grown at home!) truly enhances this salad, though the flavorful dressing ensures success no matter what!

The **easy, no-mix dressing** is created by mixing the lettuce and vegetables with lemon juice, pomegranate molasses, sumac, salt, and pepper. It imparts the classic bright, bold, pleasantly tangy flavor of fattoush. Optional maple syrup and olive oil can add extra balance and may be a nice addition based on the sweetness of your pomegranate molasses.

Then, finish off with the final touches: **fresh mint leaves**, **pita chips**, and **pomegranate arils**. We prefer to keep the mint leaves whole for an appealing presentation and bursts of herbal flavor. While we enjoy the convenience of store-bought pita chips, we have provided notes for making them from scratch, which is useful if you have leftover flatbread or pita bread.

We hope you ADORE this fattoush salad! It’s:
– Crisp
– Bright
– Crunchy
– Refreshing
– Tart-sweet
– Quick & easy
– SO tasty!

When paired with chickpeas, it transforms into the ideal light meal for warm summer days! It also serves as a wonderful side for Mediterranean- and Middle Eastern-inspired main dishes.

#### More Easy, Refreshing Salads

If you give this recipe a try, let us know! Leave a comment, rate it, and don’t forget to share a photo on Instagram.

### Recipe: Easy Fattoush Salad

**Prep Time:** 20 minutes
**Total Time:** 20 minutes
**Servings:** 4 (side servings)

#### Ingredients

**For the Salad:**
– 3 cups chopped romaine lettuce
– 2 cups chopped fresh, crunchy veggies of choice (e.g., cucumber, tomatoes, radish)
– 1 Tbsp lemon juice
– 1 Tbsp pomegranate molasses (or balsamic vinegar)
– 3/4 tsp ground sumac
– Generous pinch of sea salt and black pepper
– 1/2 tsp maple syrup (optional)
– Extra virgin olive oil (optional)

**For Serving:**
– 1/3 cup loosely packed fresh mint leaves
– 1 ½ cups pita chips, slightly crushed
– 1/4 cup pomegranate arils
– 1 (15 oz.) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed (optional)

#### Instructions

1. **Pita Chips:** Opt for store-bought pita chips for convenience or follow homemade instructions if you prefer.
2. **Salad:** In a large mixing bowl, combine lettuce, chopped veggies, lemon juice, pomegranate molasses, sumac, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat. Adjust flavors as necessary.
3. **For Serving:** Top with mint leaves, pita chips, pomegranate arils, and chickpeas (if using). Serve right away to prevent the pita chips from becoming soggy.
4. **Storage:** Best enjoyed fresh. Leftovers can be kept separately for up to 2-3 days. Not suitable for freezing.

#### Notes
– Use seasonal vegetables for optimal flavor.
– Homemade pita chips can be created by baking pita bread with olive oil and seasonings.
– Nutrition information is a rough estimate for 4 side servings.

Savor your refreshing and colorful fattoush salad!

Creamy Corn and Zucchini Pesto Pasta

Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 15 minutes Total Time: 25 minutes Servings: 4

A vibrant and summery pasta featuring corn and zucchini in a rich basil pesto and parmesan sauce!

Ingredients

• 8 ounces pasta (gluten-free for gluten-free)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 cup onion, chopped
• 2 cups corn, removed from the cob
• 2 medium zucchini, cut into slices
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup cottage cheese, blended
• 1/4 cup parmigiano reggiano (parmesan cheese), shredded
• 1/2 cup basil pesto

Directions

1. Begin preparing the pasta according to the package instructions.
2. In the meantime, heat the oil and melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat, then add the onions, zucchini, and corn, cooking until soft, approximately 10 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, stir, and cook until fragrant before turning off the heat.
4. Incorporate the cottage cheese, parmesan, and pesto into the vegetable mixture.
5. Once the pasta is fully cooked, drain it, reserving 1-2 cups of the cooking water.
6. Combine the pasta with the vegetable sauce, adding enough of the reserved water to achieve the desired sauce consistency and enjoy!

Option: Substitute the cottage cheese with heavy cream, plain yogurt, or sour cream.
Option: Include sun-dried tomatoes, sliced thinly.

Recipes by Alex & Sonja: A Culinary Adventure

Introducing Alex and Sonja Overhiser, the vibrant pair behind the esteemed food blog “A Couple Cooks.” As authors of cookbooks, dedicated parents, and a real-life couple passionate about cooking together, Alex and Sonja have been sharing their food enthusiasm since 2010. Their blog is a goldmine of straightforward, seasonal recipes, nutritious meal planning advice, and a tribute to the happiness that cooking can bring to daily life.

The Origins of A Couple Cooks

The story of A Couple Cooks commenced in 2010 when Alex and Sonja chose to record their culinary explorations. What began as a pastime rapidly evolved into a cherished resource for home cooks globally. Their goal was straightforward: to make cooking easy and enjoyable for everyone, irrespective of their cooking skills.

Easy and Seasonal Recipes

At the core of A Couple Cooks lie recipes that are both easy and seasonal. Alex and Sonja emphasize the importance of fresh, high-quality ingredients to craft meals that are not only tasty but also healthful. Their recipes are crafted to be user-friendly, allowing anyone to create a delightful meal without dedicating hours in the kitchen.

Nutritious Meal Planning Advice

Alongside their recipes, Alex and Sonja provide invaluable tips for nutritious meal planning. They are aware of the difficulties in juggling a busy schedule while wanting to eat well. Their blog offers practical suggestions on how to organize meals that are both healthy and satisfying, enabling families to enhance their eating habits without compromising on flavor or variety.

Cooking as a Family Together

For Alex and Sonja, cooking is a family experience. All their recipes are evaluated not only by themselves but also by their two children. This family-oriented strategy guarantees that their dishes are kid-friendly and appropriate for all ages. By including their children in the cooking journey, they aim to motivate other families to participate, nurturing a passion for cooking in the upcoming generation.

The Pleasure of Cooking Together

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Conclusion

Alex and Sonja Overhiser have established more than just a food blog with A Couple Cooks; they’ve formed a community devoted to the love of cooking. Through their easy, seasonal recipes and practical meal planning insights, they continue to motivate home cooks to embrace the joy of cooking and to share it with those they cherish. Whether you’re an experienced chef or a kitchen newcomer, A Couple Cooks has something to offer everyone, making it simpler than ever to relish delicious, home-cooked meals.

**Recipes by Alex & Sonja: A Culinary Adventure with A Couple Cooks**

In the vibrant realm of food blogging, Alex and Sonja Overhiser have established a distinctive space with their charming blog, A Couple Cooks. Since its launch in 2010, this energetic pair has committed to sharing their love for cooking through straightforward, seasonal recipes that highlight health and happiness in the kitchen.

**The Origins of A Couple Cooks**

Alex and Sonja are not only life partners but also collaborators in the kitchen. As cookbook writers and busy parents, they recognize the struggles of meal preparation and the significance of wholesome meals. Their journey began with a mutual passion for cooking and a wish to unite people through food. Throughout the years, their blog has transformed into a valuable resource of culinary inspiration, providing readers a window into their kitchen explorations.

**Easy, Seasonal, and Nutritious Recipes**

The essence of A Couple Cooks is its commitment to simplicity and seasonality. Alex and Sonja contend that cooking should be within everyone’s reach, regardless of culinary skill. Their recipes are crafted to be straightforward, utilizing ingredients that are widely accessible and seasonal. This method not only guarantees freshness and flavor but also promotes sustainable eating habits.

From colorful salads and filling soups to scrumptious desserts, their collection caters to a diverse array of tastes and dietary needs. Whether you’re a vegetarian, vegan, or just aiming to include more plant-based meals in your diet, A Couple Cooks offers something for all.

**Effortless Meal Planning**

Alongside their appetizing recipes, Alex and Sonja provide practical meal planning advice to assist busy families in managing the often daunting task of meal preparation. Their techniques emphasize efficiency and organization, making it simpler for readers to appreciate home-cooked meals without the usual stress. By sharing their personal experiences as parents, they offer relatable tips that resonate with families balancing numerous responsibilities.

**The Delight of Cooking Together**

At the core of A Couple Cooks lies the joy of cooking as a duo. Alex and Sonja’s collaboration in the kitchen exemplifies the strength of teamwork and creativity. Their recipes encompass not just the final outcome but also the journey of cooking together, experimenting with tastes, and crafting lasting memories with loved ones.

**Family-Tested and Approved**

Every recipe featured on A Couple Cooks is carefully tested and photographed by Alex and Sonja, guaranteeing that readers receive trustworthy and visually appealing content. Their two children also play a vital part in the testing phase, providing their approval on kid-friendly meals. This family-oriented approach adds an authentic element to their blog, making it relatable to parents searching for meals that appeal to both adults and children.

**Conclusion**

Alex and Sonja Overhiser have elevated A Couple Cooks into something beyond a mere food blog; it’s a tribute to cooking, family, and life’s simple pleasures. Through their recipes and meal planning strategies, they motivate readers to embrace the happiness of cooking and to cherish every moment spent in the kitchen. Whether you’re an experienced chef or just starting out, A Couple Cooks presents a friendly environment to discover the world of culinary wonders.

### Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken: A Tasty Treat

Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken is an enjoyable dish that merges succulent chicken thighs with a sweet and flavorful glaze, succulent pineapple, and the fragrant notes of fresh ginger and garlic. This simple baked recipe provides a delightful balance of zesty, smoky, and tropical flavors in every bite, making it an ideal option for a family meal or a special event.

#### Holly’s Recipe Highlights: Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken

– **Flavor:** A delightful mix of sweet, sticky, and savory! Fresh ginger, garlic, and lime enhance the traditional pineapple-soy taste for a light, zesty glaze you’ll adore.
– **Why It Works:** Marinating the chicken thighs imbues them with flavor, while the retained sauce thickens into a shiny glaze.
– **Serving Suggestions:** Drizzle the extra glaze over baked rice to capture every drop of the sauce.

**Total Time:** 4 hrs 30 mins (4 hrs Marinating)
**Serves:** 6
**Cooking Method:** Stovetop/Oven-Baked

### Ingredient Notes

– **Chicken:** Boneless skinless chicken thighs remain tender and juicy during baking or grilling and take in the marinade splendidly. Chicken breasts can also be utilized, but monitor them closely to avoid overcooking.
– **Pineapple Rings:** Fresh or canned pineapple both function well in this recipe. If opting for canned pineapple, select rings packed in juice and save the juice for the homemade sauce. For easier serving over rice bowls, consider using pineapple chunks instead.
– **Teriyaki Sauce:** Utilize store-bought sauce for a quick shortcut, or prepare the homemade sauce provided in the recipe. Reduced-sodium soy sauce aids in keeping the glaze balanced and prevents excessive saltiness.

### How to Make Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken

1. Mix the homemade teriyaki ingredients.
2. Marinate the chicken, reserving the leftover sauce.
3. Simmer the reserved sauce, leisurely adding a cornstarch slurry.
4. Bake the chicken (complete recipe below).
5. Brush or pour the thickened sauce over the chicken.

#### Tips for Success

– **Reserve Some Sauce:** Set aside half of the sauce before introducing the chicken, ensuring some remains for glazing and serving.
– **Don’t Over Marinate:** Four hours provides the chicken ample flavor. Overnight marinating is acceptable, but refrain from extending it beyond that, as it can soften the chicken’s texture.
– **Add Cornstarch Gradually:** The sauce continues to thicken as it simmers and cools, so cease when it lightly coats the back of a spoon.
– **Place Chicken in Single Layer:** For improved browning in the oven, arrange the chicken in a single layer and broil after it has reached a safe internal temperature (165°F in the thickest part).
– **On the Grill:** Keep some thickened reserved sauce for serving rather than using all of it while basting.

### Save Every Saucy Bite

– Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or in the freezer for as long as 3 months.
– Reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through. Add a splash of water if the glaze has thickened too much.

### Recipe Overview

**Prep Time:** 15 minutes
**Cook Time:** 15 minutes
**Marinating Time:** 4 hours
**Total Time:** 4 hours 30 minutes

#### Ingredients for Teriyaki Sauce

– Soy sauce
– Brown sugar
– Honey
– Rice vinegar
– Fresh ginger
– Garlic
– Cornstarch

#### Instructions

1. Mix all sauce components. Reserve half the sauce and refrigerate.
2. Combine chicken with the remaining sauce. Marinate for 4 hours or overnight if feasible.
3. Place the reserved sauce in a small saucepan and bring it to a simmer. Mix cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water. Add cornstarch gradually until it reaches your preferred thickness.
4. Remove chicken from marinade and discard it. Arrange chicken, pineapple rings, and green onions in a 9×13 pan. Top with thickened teriyaki sauce.
5. Bake in a 425°F oven for 25 minutes or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Broil for 3 to 5 minutes or until browned.

### Nutrition Information (per serving)

– **Calories:** 433
– **Carbohydrates:** 42 g
– **Protein:** 23 g
– **Fat:** 19 g
– **Sodium:** 2771 mg
– **Potassium:** 530 mg
– **Fiber:** 1 g
– **Sugar:** 34 g

This Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken recipe is not just simple to prepare but is also brimming with flavors that will whisk you away to a tropical paradise with every