### Homemade Tomato Sauce: A Classic Comfort Food

This homemade tomato sauce is crafted from canned tomatoes, fresh garlic, basil, parsley, and an array of seasonings. It exemplifies homemade comfort food at its finest. With its bright and tangy profile, the flavor transcends any store-bought alternatives. Ideal for pasta, pizza, or as a dip, this sauce is both adaptable and simple to make.

#### Flavor Profile
The sauce presents a lively and tangy taste, complemented by a touch of basil, making it a wonderful addition to many dishes. The freshness of the garlic and herbs elevates the overall flavor, resulting in a soothing and gratifying experience.

#### Skill Level
This recipe is suitable for beginners, needing minimal active preparation time. Everything is simmered to perfection in a single pot, making it a perfect option for less experienced cooks.

#### Serving Suggestions
Utilize this sauce as a dip for breadsticks or as a foundation for hearty sloppy joes. It pairs excellently with garlic bread or mozzarella sticks, providing a savory element to your starters.

#### Yield
The recipe can be easily doubled or tripled if you possess a sufficiently large pot. Any leftovers can be frozen for future enjoyment, ensuring you always have a delicious sauce ready to go.

### Ingredient Tips for Homemade Tomato Sauce

– **Tomatoes**: Choose high-quality canned tomatoes, like San Marzano, for optimal flavor. Diced or crushed tomatoes are ideal for a chunkier sauce, while fresh tomatoes can create a more intense flavor but will require longer cooking time.

– **Seasonings**: The sauce is flavored with basil, oregano, and parsley. To deepen the taste, you might add Italian seasoning, rosemary, or red pepper flakes.

– **Variations**: To achieve a creamier texture, incorporate heavy whipping cream after blending. You can also add sliced mushrooms, grated zucchini, or leftover vegetables to boost the nutritional content.

### Tips for Perfecting Your Sauce

– If the sauce appears too acidic, mitigate it by stirring in up to ½ teaspoon of sugar, honey, or ¼ cup of grated carrots.

– Simmer uncovered for a thicker texture, adding water or broth if it becomes too thick.

– For a smoother consistency, blend all or part of the sauce using an immersion blender right in the pot.

### Ways to Use Tomato Sauce

This homemade tomato sauce is remarkably versatile. Beyond pasta, it can serve in a variety of dishes, including:

– Dipping sauce for garlic bread or mozzarella sticks.
– Base for pizza or lasagna.
– Ingredient in soups or stews.

### Storing Leftovers

Preserve any remaining sauce in a covered container or mason jar in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For extended storage, freeze in zippered bags for up to 3 months.

### Conclusion

This homemade tomato sauce is rich, fresh, and bursting with bold flavor. It’s a fundamental recipe that can enhance numerous dishes, making it an essential for anyone aiming to elevate their culinary skills. Relish in the comfort of homemade sauce and the fulfillment that comes from creating a delicious meal from scratch.

### Indulge in These Vibrant BBQ Chicken Flatbreads

BBQ Chicken Flatbreads offer an exciting variation on classic pizza, presenting a tasty and vibrant meal that is bound to impress. Merging flavorful chicken with fresh veggies atop a cheesy, BBQ-smeared flatbread results in a dish that is both gratifying and attractive.

#### Recipe Ingredients

– **Mozzarella Cheese**: A rich cheese that complements the tastes in this dish wonderfully.
– **Smoked Paprika**: Introduces a smoky flavor to the chicken pieces adorning the flatbreads.

For an exhaustive list of ingredients and their measurements, check the recipe card.

#### Variations

– **Cheese**: If mozzarella isn’t to your liking, you might opt for cheddar cheese, Monterey jack cheese, or any cheese you prefer.
– **Bread**: Alternative choices for this recipe include naan bread or pizza crusts, which can impart a more classic pizza essence.

#### Instructions for Making BBQ Chicken Flatbreads

1. **Prepare the Chicken**: In a medium bowl, mix the chicken, olive oil, and spices. Toss until thoroughly coated.

2. **Cook the Chicken**: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sauté the chicken for around 6 minutes, or until browned and fully cooked (165°F).

3. **Preheat the Oven**: Set your oven to 425°F and prepare a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.

4. **Blend the Sauces**: In a small bowl, mix BBQ sauce and marinara sauce.

5. **Prep the Flatbreads**: Lay the flatbreads on the lined baking sheets and apply a thin coating of the sauce mixture over each.

6. **Add Toppings**: Disperse mozzarella cheese over the flatbreads, then layer with the cooked chicken, onion, and sweet peppers.

7. **Bake**: Place in the oven for 8-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Top with freshly chopped cilantro, slice, and savor!

#### FAQs

– **What other vegetables can I include on my BBQ Chicken flatbread pizza?**
You can incorporate bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, green onions, or corn kernels for additional flavor.

– **How can I embellish my Barbecue Chicken Flatbreads?**
Besides cilantro, think about drizzling extra BBQ sauce or ranch dressing on top for an added decorative flair.

#### Storage Information

Any leftover flatbreads can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. To reheat, use the oven at 375°F or microwave until thoroughly warmed.

### More Recipes to Appreciate

Discover more BBQ recipes and relish the range of flavors that can be created using simple ingredients. BBQ Chicken Flatbreads are not just simple to prepare but also a delightful means to gather friends and family for a scrumptious meal.

As a food blogger and cookbook author who is also a busy parent, I spend a significant amount of time in my kitchen. A LOT! It’s not just my home—it serves as my workspace too!

After a decade of mentally reimagining our compact kitchen, Alex and I finally made the leap: we relocated! The new kitchen we found had solid structure; it just required some design enhancements. So, we dedicated countless hours on Pinterest crafting our dream kitchen. We’re thrilled to present it to you today, providing you with kitchen design inspiration for your own endeavors!

The vision we pursued

I am thrilled to unveil the results of this kitchen renovation—particularly for those who have followed us since our initial kitchen renovation in 2013 and this kitchen update in 2021. (Looking back at the first one, it’s fascinating to see how trends have evolved!)

You wouldn’t believe the countless hours I invested on Pinterest figuring all of this out!

Alex and I are huge fans of the current trend in British kitchen design (especially DeVOL), which embraces traditional design elements, unlacquered brass fixtures, and classic colors inspired by history.

We also aimed to create a kitchen that resembled a cooking show set, as we frequently use this kitchen in our Instagram cooking videos.

After consulting with a designer and builder about some costs, we concluded that, with Alex’s building expertise and my design acumen, we could tackle this kitchen renovation on our own. (Eek!)

Managing the work ourselves proved to be much more budget-friendly. Yet, it was undeniably more stressful (obviously). This also enabled us to design as we progressed, turning it into an enjoyable (and occasionally tense) collaborative project for the two of us.

(Here we are at the conclusion of the project: we did it! Since we’re not professional designers, we weren’t entirely certain if we could pull it off.)

The design project: before

After residing in the same home for a decade, Alex and I recently moved to a house just down the street. (Let me tell you, shifting 6 houses down is just as challenging as relocating across town!)

Originally built in the 1920s, the house had been entirely renovated by a contractor. While they added some lovely features, the kitchen design felt rather standard. What captivated us were the foundational elements: a spacious island, an actual walk-in butler’s pantry (dream come true!), and a coffee bar area.

What didn’t appeal to us: the generic atmosphere, the overly common blue-green-gray cabinet color (way too much!), the upper cabinets above the stove (which made it feel cramped), and the unfinished appearance of the coffee bar area.

The kitchen renovation—after!

Welcome to our new, warm, and inviting kitchen area! Much of the hardware and lighting in the original kitchen design was of lower quality metals and generic designs. We realized that achieving the custom aesthetic we desired necessitated replacing many of the hardware items.

Fortunately, we were able to partner with our dream brand: Rejuvenation, to bring this space to life! (We’re still pinching ourselves for having collaborated with this fantastic brand.) Their hardware is top-notch: both practical and aesthetically pleasing, which we are passionate about in our designs. (And recipes, too!) They supplied some of the hardware, lighting, and bar stools featured in these images to help realize our vision.

Here’s what we transformed:

1. Replaced all the hardware with unlacquered brass.

We adore how it turned out: it imparts a warm, historical vibe. You truly won’t believe the impact that hardware can have! If you’re looking to make a significant transformation in your kitchen, consider simply updating the hardware.

We utilized these Massey bin pulls, Ball knobs, and Grace drawer pulls from Rejuvenation.

2. Removed the upper cabinets and constructed a new hood.

This was the most adventurous aspect of the design! We actually removed the cabinets ourselves (which was quite daunting!) and designed and built this hood that is a more appropriate size for the range. We love how open it feels and it serves as a lovely white backdrop for our cooking videos.

We also incorporated an off-the-shelf open shelving unit that we painted to match the cabinets. We appreciate how the open shelving showcases our most frequently used and cherished kitchen items. Of course, we understand that many have thoughts on open shelving! Feel free to express them in the comments.

3. Acquired a new AGA induction range.

Isn’t it beautiful? This is the AGA Elise 36″ induction range. (We received a small discount from the brand for featuring this product—thanks AGA!)

We are completely enamored with cooking on induction, so it was essential for us to replace the gas range with an induction model. Here’s why we adore it: It’s more environmentally friendly, significantly easier to clean,

With the 4th of July approaching, I’m envisioning the sound of the grill and the aroma of charcoal filling the air. There’s something enchanting about outdoor cooking – naturally, everything is enhanced with a touch of smoke, but I also appreciate how grilling brings everyone together around the flames.

I’ve been organizing our 4th of July menu for a little while now, and although I’m still pondering between grilled chicken thighs and marinated salmon for the main dish, I’m certain that our beloved grilled corn on the cob will make the cut!

## Why Grilled Corn Takes Center Stage

If you’ve never tried grilling corn before, the kernels turn out delightfully soft with stunning char marks, and the natural sugars caramelize into something truly *heavenly*. The smoky taste is unmatched by any other method.

I’ve been preparing grilled corn on the cob this way for ages. Kids adore it, and adults do too. You can serve it simply with butter, as Mexican street corn (elote), or in a grilled corn salad.

Here’s what makes it foolproof: you can grill it in the husk for moist, tender kernels, or shuck it beforehand for those beautiful grill marks. (Personally, I prefer shucking it first for those lovely grill marks!)

## Grilled Dinner Inspirations

Whether you lean towards chicken or seafood, the grill has something for everyone. Those grilled chicken thighs I mentioned? They remain incredibly juicy and develop the most wonderful crispy skin. You can also grill chicken breast (which I find equally delicious) and use it in a chicken pesto sandwich or grilled chicken salad.

For seafood enthusiasts, grilled shrimp skewers are always a favorite. The secret lies in the shrimp marinade – it adds a ton of flavor in a short amount of time. If you want to try something different, grilled fish tacos offer a fun, fresh twist. I also really enjoy this grilled tuna steak (it has such a meaty flavor!).

For those seeking vegan or vegetarian grilling options, our ultimate grilled veggie burger, grilled tofu, or grilled eggplant parmesan are sure to please a crowd.

While your corn and main proteins are cooking, don’t underestimate the value of excellent grilled side dishes. Once your corn is ready, think about rounding out your meal. I love assembling a variety of proteins and vegetables to satisfy everyone at the table.

For veggies, grilled zucchini, grilled green beans, or grilled squash are summer staples. I also can’t resist preparing veggie kabobs – there’s something enjoyable about eating off a stick that enhances the flavor.

Grilled garlic bread makes for a delightful side. Sometimes, we enjoy a grilled Caesar salad or these easy grilled potatoes in foil. Or, mix up elote salad using that grilled corn!

If you want to elevate your vegetable offerings, check out our guide to the finest grilled vegetables.

## Conclude with a Grilled Dessert!

Here’s a tip that’ll make your guests do a double-take: prepare a grilled dessert! We love grilled apples: the heat intensifies their sweetness and adds a subtle smoky note that pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

You can also grill bananas and top them with vanilla ice cream, or even try grilled pineapple or grilled peaches!

## My Best Grilling Tips for Success

– **Begin with the corn.** Since grilled corn on the cob is quite forgiving, it’s ideal for adjusting your grill temperature just right while you prepare everything else.

– **Prepare in advance.** Most vegetables can be cut hours ahead of time. Your marinades will taste better when made in advance, and you’ll actually enjoy your own gathering.

– **Keep it straightforward.** The finest grilled food allows the natural flavors to stand out. Don’t overthink it – sometimes salt, pepper, and good olive oil are all that’s needed.

– **Utilize our cheat sheet.** Refer to these Grill Temperature Cheat Sheet for spontaneous grilling.

– **Have backup options.** The weather can be unpredictable, so know which items can be finished in the oven if necessary.

*What’s your favorite grilling strategy for the 4th? I’d love to know your favorite combinations in the comments below!*

**Effortless Summer Meal: Grilled Jerk Chicken Accompanied by Mango Avocado Salsa**

Summer is an ideal season to relish light, tasty dishes that require little effort to prepare. One such recipe that embodies the spirit of summer is Grilled Jerk Chicken with Mango Avocado Salsa. This colorful dish fuses the piquant, fragrant notes of jerk seasoning with the invigorating, tropical flavors of mango and avocado, crafting a delightful contrast that will undoubtedly astonish your family and friends.

**Ingredients:**

*For the Jerk Chicken:*
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning (either store-bought or homemade)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt and pepper to taste

*For the Mango Avocado Salsa:*
– 1 ripe mango, peeled, pitted, and diced
– 1 ripe avocado, pitted and diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt and pepper to taste

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Chicken:**
– In a small bowl, mix the jerk seasoning, olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Combine thoroughly to create a marinade.
– Place the chicken breasts into a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors infuse.

2. **Make the Salsa:**
– In a medium bowl, combine the diced mango, avocado, red onion, and cilantro.
– Pour in the lime juice, salt, and pepper. Gently mix the ingredients until well combined. Let it sit to allow the flavors to enhance while grilling the chicken.

3. **Grill the Chicken:**
– Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
– Take the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature hits 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is thoroughly cooked.
– After cooking, take the chicken off the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

4. **Serve:**
– Slice the grilled jerk chicken and arrange it on a serving platter.
– Spoon the mango avocado salsa over the chicken or serve on the side.
– Garnish with extra cilantro if desired.

**Tips for Success:**

– **Jerk Seasoning:** You can opt for store-bought jerk seasoning for ease, or craft your own blend using spices like allspice, thyme, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cayenne pepper for a more customized flavor.
– **Marinating Time:** For enhanced flavor, marinate the chicken for several hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
– **Salsa Variations:** Feel free to incorporate other elements into the salsa, such as diced tomatoes, jalapeños for a kick, or a splash of orange juice for extra sweetness.

This Grilled Jerk Chicken with Mango Avocado Salsa makes for an exceptional summer dinner that is straightforward to prepare and bursting with flavor. The spicy jerk chicken harmonizes beautifully with the sweet and creamy salsa, making it a dish destined to become a favorite at your summer events. Pair this meal with coconut rice or a crisp green salad for a well-rounded and enjoyable dinner.