Weekend Warrior February 3, 2024

Weekend Warrior: Feb 2024

 

 


Welcome to
THE WEEKEND WARRIOR

Capture the spirit of rejuvenation and merriment in Northern Nevada throughout March 2024 when you get out and enjoy some of our region’s exciting and fun events and activities.  The Weekend Warrior is your guide to the best happenings right here, every month!! 

Have you been following the Weekend Warrior and noticed something different?  Indeed, The Weekend Warrior and I have made a change!  I have recently aligned with
BETTER HOMES AND GARDENS DRAKULICH REALTY!!
I am super excited about the change, and I look forward to continuing to provide
the highest level of service in your upcoming real estate endeavors!
#GOINGREEN!

SNOWFEST
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 29 – SUNDAY, MARCH 10, 2024
NORTH LAKE TAHOE, CA

BRING ON THE SNOW!!  Regardless of how little or big the base is, Snowfest is North Lake Tahoe’s super community event that has been cherished by locals since 1982.  Beckoning snow lovers of all ages to commemorate our winter wonderland, on and off the mountain, you’re invited to join the festivities that include parades, races, concerts, parties, film screenings, polar bear swim, and so much more! Check out the complete lineup of entertaining events and activities at Snowfest.org. Don’t miss out on the fun!

EL AUTHÉNTICO JARIPEO MEXICANOSunday, March 3 (3 pm) @ Reno-Sparks Livestock Events Center
Stellar line-up of Musica Mexicana includes Paquita La Del Barrio, Ezequiel Peña, Majo Aguilar, Cheque Junior, Jesus Mendoza, Alex Rivera, and Cadetes Jrs.

THE MARSHALL TUCKER BAND w/ JEFFERSON STARSHIPFriday, March 8 (7 pm) @ Nugget Casino Resort
Listen here to The Marshall Tucker Band’s Rock song, “Can’t You See.”

TREATY OAK REVIVAL (NIGHT IN THE COUNTRY SERIESThursday, March 14 (9 pm) @ LEX Nightclub/Grand Sierra Resort
Listen here to Treaty Oak Revival’s Country song, “Fishnets.”

BRANDON LAKE Sunday, March 17 (7 pm) @ Reno Events Center
Listen here to Brandon Lake’s Contemporary Christian song, “Graves to Gardens.”

ALAN PARSONS LIVE PROJECTFriday, March 22 (8 pm) Grand Sierra Resort
Listen here to Alan Parsons Live Project Progressive Rock song, “Sirius.”

TESLA– Saturday, March 23 (8 pm) @ Grand Sierra Resort
Listen here to Tesla’s Rock song, “Signs.

KILLER QUEENSunday, March 24 (8 pm) Grand Sierra Resort
Watch a fantastic example of what the Killer Queen concert experience is all about HERE.

LEO KUSaturday, March 30 (8 pm) Reno Events Center
Listen here to Leo Ku’s Chinese Pop song, “Ai Yu Cheng.”

THE BOOK OF WILL
FRIDAY, MARCH 1 – FRIDAY, MARCH 22
BRÜKA THEATRE

Who doesn’t need a little Shakespeare in their lives??  Take a walk on the wild side and buy your ticket now to witness Actor Stacey Spain’s return to Brüka Theatre after her incredible performance last season in The Beauty Queen Of Leenane.  She is now directing The Book of Will, written by Lauren Gunderson. The action takes place after the death of Shakespeare as his family of theatrical friends scramble to secure his legacy.  Amidst the noise and color of Elizabethan London, The Book Of Will finds an unforgettable true story of love, loss, and laughter and sheds new light on a man you may think you know. For tickets to this special local production and information about Brüka Theatre, please visit Bruka.org.

LARRY THE CABLE GUY
SATURDAY, MARCH 8 (5 & 8 pm)
ATLANTIS CASINO RESORT

“GIT-R-DONE!!” Experience the uproarious comedy of Larry the Cable Guy live at the Atlantis Casino Resort, where Larry will unleash his signature Southern charm, hilarious anecdotes, and razor-sharp wit. You’re guaranteed a night filled with side-splitting laughter as Larry’s unique brand of humor promises an unforgettable evening that transcends regional boundaries and resonates with audiences of all backgrounds. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or new to his comedy, his show invites you to unwind, forget your worries, and enjoy a rollicking good time. Grab your tickets now at AtlantisCasino.com and prepare for a comedy extravaganza like no other!

JAY LENO
SATURDAY, MARCH 30 (8 pm)
NUGGET CASINO RESORT

With his legendary wit and charm, Jay Leno promises a show filled with hilarious anecdotes, sharp observations, and side-splitting humor that transcends generations.  As a master storyteller and seasoned comedian, Leno’s shows are sure to leave you roaring with laughter from start to finish. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to see the late-night icon up close and personal, delivering his trademark humor in a dynamic live setting. Secure your tickets now for an evening of pure comedic brilliance at Ticketmaster.com.

“BROADWAY COMES TO RENO” presents MEAN GIRLS
TUESDAY, MARCH 12 – SUNDAY, MARCH 17, 2024
PIONEER CENTER for the PERFORMING ARTS

The iconic tale of high school drama like never before comes to Reno!  You’ll be thoroughly entertained as MEAN GIRLS brings all “The Plastics'” hilarious antics and sharp wit as they navigate the halls of North Shore High. From catchy tunes to unforgettable characters, this musical adaptation brings the beloved movie to life on stage. Prepare to laugh, cheer, and maybe even shed a tear as you immerse yourself in the world of Regina George and her clique. Don’t miss your chance to join in on the fun and see why MEAN GIRLS is a must-see Broadway sensation in Reno! Visit the Pioneer Center Box office Monday through Friday to save a little $ on convenience fees, or visit PioneerCenter.com for seat availability and tickets online.

RENO LEPRECHAUN CRAWL
SATURDAY, MARCH 16, 2024 (8 pm to 2 am)
DOWNTOWN RENO – MULTIPLE VENUES

“Feeling lucky? Join all the mischievous little leprechauns as they pull their shenanigans at the ultimate adventure at Downtown Reno’s very own pot of gold, the Reno Leprechaun Crawl! Get ready to paint the town GREEN as you skip from venue to venue, enjoying festive libations and spreading St. Paddy’s cheer.  With multiple stops along the way, each offering its unique charm and craic, you’ll find yourself dancing a jig and making memories to last a lifetime. So grab your most festive green gear because this crawl is where the real magic is spread, and raise a pint to good times and great company.  May your glass be ever full and your troubles be few!  Learn more about the Reno Leprechaun Crawl and how to get your cup in advance at CrawlReno.com.

12TH ANNUAL LEPRECHAUN RACE – 5K RUN//WALK
SUNDAY, MARCH 17 (Begins at 8:30 am)
MIDTOWN RENO

ANNOUNCEMENT: This Event is Currently Sold Out!  However, don’t let that stop you from making plans for next year’s event!  Here is what it’s all about!

Can the eager participants of the 12th Annual Leprechaun Race beat the speedy leprechaun?  They’ll be head-to-head with this crafty green athlete, but they’ll get a running head start. If they beat the leprechaun to the finish line, they’ll earn a special prize. Yippee!  But for each person the leprechaun passes along her route, her pot of gold grows while she raises money for the Terry Lee Wells Discover Museum!!  Organized by Race 178, the event has pulled in $5,000/year for “The Discovery.” If you’re up for participating in next year’s event, you’re invited to walk or run.  All levels of experience are encouraged!  Want to head to Midtown Reno and watch/cheer on the walkers/runners?  Get out there, and don’t forget to fashion your favorite crazy St. Patty’s Day attire!  Learn more at RenoRunningCompany.com!

ROCKY MOUNTAIN OYSTER FRY
SATURDAY, MARCH 16, 2024
VIRGINIA CITY, NV – C STREET

Take your dining repertoire to the next level at the Rocky Mountain Oyster Fry!  This hugely popular event that serves up tantalizing testes in a variety of recipes and preparation styles, has pleased attendees for 27 years!  Hungry, are you?  Purchase the VIP Pass, and you’ll skip to the front of the line at your five favorite booths.  Then, take your time at the other booths and wash it all down with two refreshing Coors Lights.  Oh yeah!  Want the party to continue?  Carry on at the “St. Patty Made Me Do It Saloon Crawl,” where historic Virginia City Saloons offer one free beer and discounts on specialty drink orders. Don’t forget the infamous St. Patty’s Day Parade.  Deck yourself out in your most outlandish Irish garb and be a part of the fun. For more info and to purchase tasting and crawling tickets, please visit VisitVirginiaCityNV.com.

RENO PHILHARMONIC presents GERSHWIN CELEBRATION
SATURDAY, MARCH 23 (7:30 pm) & SUNDAY, MARCH 24, 2024 (4 pm)
PIONEER CENTER for the PERFORMING ARTS

How fortunate we are to have the Reno Philharmonic right here in The Biggest Little City. The Reno Phil’s Classix Series brings us a Gershwin Celebration this month!  You’re invited to honor the 125th birthday of legendary American composer George Gershwin! Hear the unabridged critical edition of An American in Paris and music from one of Gershwin’s earliest musical scores, the Overture from Primrose.  Reno Philharmonic’s very own English Horn player, Jordan Pyle, will have the spotlight for Daugherty’s Spaghetti Western. As the performance continues, you’ll be transported to a land of gunfights, bank robberies, saloon brawls, train heists, ghostly stagecoaches, quests for gold, and revenge and retribution. The concert concludes with Ravel’s Bolero, an audience favorite known from the film Paradise Road, and ends with a brief spotlight on every instrument on-stage. Learn more about the Reno Philharmonic and purchase tickets online at RenoPhil.com.

COMING TO THE MARKET FEBRUARY 29, 2024!!  Enjoy the convenience of living in the heart of Reno with no HOA.  This classic home is tucked into a quiet cul-de-sac in Manzanita West, one of Reno’s desirable established neighborhoods. Freshly painted on the entire interior and exterior, 2333 Dant Ct invites you to bring your own personal touches & make it your own. Light fixtures with matte black metal & a hint of aged gold tastefully compliment the home’s original fixtures and accents sprinkled throughout. Gleaming hardwood flooring is in excellent condition. The majority of this attractive home is on ground level and features a large bonus/game room + oversized closet upstairs. Plumbing upstairs offers the potential to add another bathroom and bedroom for additional value and utility. Easy to show and ready for her new owner… Schedule your appointment today!  Email or text/call me at 775-233-0682 if you or somebody you know is interested!  Denise Hallerbach (BS.1001182).

NEW LUXURY PLANK VINYL FLOORING was recently installed and 1201 SEARCHLITE IS UNDER CONTRACT!! SHOWINGS ARE STILL ACCEPTED FOR BACKUP OFFER CONSIDERATION!  1201 Searchlite Ct in NW Reno, offers the convenience of living just a short 2-minute drive to groceries, restaurants, and more. The end-unit corner condo abuts a lush landscape with views of the beautiful mature trees lining the greenbelt. The home offers a bedroom and full bathroom downstairs, an oversized primary bedroom and additional bedroom or office with Jack-and-Jill bathroom upstairs, a generous enclosed courtyard patio, and a rare 2-car garage. For more information email or text/call me at 775-233-0682 if you or somebody you know is interested!  Denise Hallerbach (BS.1001182).

WE ARE IN CONTRACT!!  BACK-UP OFFERS ARE ALWAYS OPEN FOR CONSIDERATION!  Conveniently located close to UNR, Downtown Reno, and a few minutes from I-580, this 4 beds/2.5 baths/2 garage/1,923 square foot home is perfect for working professionals and investment for UNR students. 3650 Pimlico St in North Reno is turnkey-ready and features upgraded laminate flooring throughout the entire house, window coverings, stylish knobs and pulls on all cabinets, and 2-year-old appliances.  Yes, the washer, dryer, and refrigerator are included with the purchase. For more information email or text/call me at 775-233-0682 if you or somebody you know is interested! Denise Hallerbach (BS.1001182).

SOLD FOR $723,000!!  This beautifully upgraded Northwest Reno gem, conveniently located close to UNR (great rental for 4 college students) and groceries/shopping. 3230 Sky Country Dr. features BRAND NEW, stylish laminate flooring and fresh interior paint on most of the interior walls.  This spacious home boasts a large kitchen with an oversized island, granite counters, upgraded cabinets, and stainless appliances. All of the bathrooms have been upgraded as well.  Looking to save $$ on your energy bill?  Solar panels powered by Tesla are owned by the Seller and transferred to the new owner. Click here for more info and photos to see what you can buy for $723,000 in Reno!


DENISE HALLERBACH
REALTOR – BROKER SALESPERSON
NV Lic #BS.1001182

denise@drakulichre.com

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Favorite Recipes March 14, 2023

Chicken Enchiladas in Sour Cream & Verde Sauce w/ Asparagus

Chicken Enchiladas in Sour Cream Verde Sauce w/ Asparagus

What You Need:

  • ~3 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • salt
  • 2-3 lb asparagus, cut into bite-size pieces
  • 1/3 cup yellow or white onion, chopped
  • 1 Tbsp. olive oil
  • 2.5 oz can black olives, chopped
  • 3-4 cups Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 1/2 cup flour
  • 4 cups chicken broth (used from cooking the chicken)
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 3/4 cup salsa verde (green salsa)
  • 1 dozen flour tortillas (I recommend using Guerrero’s Soft Taco Flour Tortillas)
  • a sprinkling of Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro. chopped
  • 2 9×13 baking dishes

What To Do:

  • Cover chicken in large stock pot with salted water (about 3-4 Tbsp); Bring to a boil, then lower heat to medium and cook for about 25 min; Place chicken on cutting board to cool.
  • While chicken is cooking, place asparagus in a skillet, barely cover with water, sprinkle with salt, and bring to low boil;  Cook asparagus until al dente;  Drain asparagus and place in a large mixing bowl;  Set aside.
  • Sauté onion in skillet with 1 Tbsp olive oil over medium heat until softened; Add to mixing bowl with asparagus.
  • Shred chicken and place in mixing bowl with asparagus and onions; add olives and about 2 cups of cheese and mix all ingredients together.
  • In medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat; blend in flour with a wooden spoon; Add chicken broth (reserved from cooking chicken), whisking constantly until thick and bubbly; Add sour cream and green salsa and heat all.
  • Preheat oven 350 deg F; wipe bottom and sides of baking dishes with olive oil.
  • One tortilla at a time placed in the baking dish, place a generous amount of chicken mixture in the center of the tortilla and spread evenly throughout; drizzle about 3-4 Tbsp sauce inside the enchilada, roll up;  Line up the next tortilla and repeat until all of mixture is used up.
  • Evenly pour sauce over the top of all enchiladas;  Sprinkle with Jack cheese, and then with a dusting of Parmesan cheese.
  • Bake at 350 degrees F for 25 min or until top turns slightly brown.
  • Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and serve.

 

Favorite Recipes September 29, 2022

Crab Cakes with Chipotle Sauce

What You’ll Need:

  • Crab Cakes:
    • 1 large egg
    • 1/3 c mayonnaise

    • 2 Tbsp
    • an air fryer 🙂
  • Chipotle Sauce

What To Do:

  • For the crab cakes: Whisk together the egg, mayonnaise, bell pepper, chives, parsley, lemon zest and juice, mustard, seafood seasoning, 1 teaspoon salt and several grinds of black pepper in a large bowl. With a rubber spatula or large spoon, very gently fold the crab and Panko into the mixture. Try to avoid breaking up lumps of crab as much as possible. Cover the crab mixture with plastic wrap and allow to rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes and up to 1 day. This will allow the Panko to absorb more liquid and help bind the crab cakes together better.
  • For the chipotle sauce: While the crab mixture is resting, stir together the mayonnaise, sour cream, chipotles and adobo sauce, chives, parsley and lemon zest and juice in a small bowl until combined. Season with salt and black pepper and set aside. (The sauce can be refrigerated, covered with plastic wrap, up to 1 day.)
  • Just before cooking, divide the crab-cake mixture into 4 portions. Lightly compact each portion to form a patty (about 3 1/2 inches in diameter) with your hands to ensure they hold their shape while cooking and place onto a large plate.
  • Preheat the air fryer to 375 degrees F and spray the basket with cooking spray. Place the crab cakes into the basket and spray the tops with cooking spray. Cook until deep golden brown and crisp, flipping halfway through and spraying again with cooking spray, about 13 minutes. Serve warm with chipotle sauce and lemon wedges.

*Kudos to FoodNetwork.com for this AMAZINGLY delicious recipe!!

Favorite Recipes September 1, 2022

Southern Peach Cobbler

SOUTHERN PEACH COBBLER

What You’ll Need

  • 9 fresh peaches (peeled, pitted and sliced in thin wedges)
  • 1/4 c white sugar
  • 1/4 c brown sugar
  • 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1 tsp fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tsp corn starch
  • 1 c all-purpose flour
  • 1/8 c white sugar
  • 1/8 c brown sugar
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 6 Tbsp unsalted butter, chilled & cut into small pieces
  • 1/8-1/4 c hot water
  • mix together 3 Tbsp white sugar & 1 tsp ground cinnamon

What To Do:

– Preheat oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit

– In large bowl, combine peaches, 1/4 c white sugar, 1/4 brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice and corn starch.  Toss to coat evenly and pour into a 2-quart baking dish. Bake in pre-heated oven for 10 min.

– Meanwhile in a large bowl, combine flour, 1/8 c white sugar, 1/8 cup brown sugar, baking powder and salt.  Blend in butter using your hands or pastry blender until mixture resembles coarse meal.  Stir in water until just combined.

– Remove peaches from oven and drop spoonfuls of topping over them.  Sprinkle entire cobbler with sugar & cinnamon mixture.  Bake until topping is golden, about 30 min.  Enjoy!

(This recipe is courtesy of allrecipes.com and has been modified to use less sugar than the original recipe)

Favorite Recipes March 21, 2022

Jalapeño Poppers

What You’ll Need

  • jalapeño peppers (10-12)
  • ~ 6 oz cream cheese (room temperature)
  • ~ 1 cup cheddar cheese, finely grated and loosely packed (I like using white cheddar)
  • ~ 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/8 cup chives, finely chopped
  • Salt/Pepper
  • Panko bread crumbs
  • Cooked bacon bits (optional)

What You’ll Do

  1. Combine all ingredients in a medium mixing bowl.
  2. Cut off stem of peppers and slice lengthwise into two identical halves. Remove seeds and white membrane to hollow out.
  3. Preheat air fryer at 325 degrees F or conventional over at 425 degrees F.
  4. Using a small spoon, stuff each pepper with about 1-2 Tbsp of cheese mixture (depends on the size of the pepper).
  5. Arrange in the basket of the air fryer in one layer.  Sprinkle bread crumbs over each popper.
  6. Cook jalapeño poppers for about 15 min at 325 degrees F or in the conventional oven at 425 degrees F for 10 to 15 min, or until cheese is somewhat gooey and peppers are al dente.

** This fun appetizer was inspired by Diethood.com!!  Kudos to Diethood!

Favorite Recipes August 15, 2021

Vietnamese Noodle Salad with Pork

What You’ll Need:

For the Pork:

  • 1 lb. pork tenderloin
  •  3 T. sugar
  •  1 T. fish sauce
  •  3 T. sesame oil, divided
  •  1 T. soy sauce
  •  2 tsp. ground black pepper
  •  1 tsp. kosher salt
  •  1 large clove garlic, minced

For the Sauce:

  • 1-1/2 c. water
  •  1/4 c. rice vinegar
  •  1-1/2 T. fish sauce
  •  3 T. sugar
  •  1 medium garlic clove, minced
  •  1/2 tsp. kosher salt
  •  1 pinch crushed red pepper

For the Noodle Salad:

  • 12 oz. thin white rice noodles (use very thin vermicelli)
  •  4 to 6 c. sliced romaine or iceberg lettuce
  •  1 to 2 large carrots, julienned
  •  half of a large English cucumber, sliced into thin rounds
  •  1 c. bean sprouts
  •  1 bunch fresh cilantro (coarsely chop or tear, if desired)
  •  1 bunch fresh mint (coarsely chop or tear, if desired)
  •  fresh lime wedges

What You’ll Do:

  1. for the pork: Place pork tenderloin in freezer to chill for 30 minutes. Remove from freezer and cut crosswise into very thin slices, about 1/8″ thick. Then cut each slice in half lengthwise. Place pork pieces in a wide shallow bowl or large zip-top baggie.
  2. In a small bowl, stir together sugar, fish sauce, 1 tablespoon of the sesame oil, soy sauce, black pepper, salt, and garlic. Pour mixture over pork pieces and fold several times to ensure the marinade is thoroughly mixed in with the pork. Cover bowl and place in refrigerator to marinate for 1 hour. Meanwhile, prepare the sauce and noodles.
  3. for the sauce: In a small saucepan over medium to medium-high heat, stir together all sauce ingredients. Once sugar and salt have dissolved, remove from heat to cool to room temperature.
  4. for the noodle salad: Bring a large saucepan of water to a boil. Add rice noodles, stir, and turn off heat. Let noodles soften according to the package directions, then drain and rinse in cold water in a colander. Shake very well to remove water and leave sit in colander at room temperature.
  5. Divide noodles amongst four low wide bowls or plates. Top each with lettuce, carrots, cucumber, bean sprouts, cilantro, mint, and lime.
  6. Remove pork from refrigerator. Heat a large cast iron skillet over medium-high to high heat. When hot, add remaining 2 tablespoons of the sesame oil and swirl around the bottom of the skillet. When oil is shimmering, carefully add pork. Separate pork pieces to cover bottom of skillet. Let pork sit without stirring for about 1 minute, to caramelize. Fold and repeat until pork is cooked through, about 5 minutes. Total cook time will depend on how thin the pork is cut, etc.
  7. Divide hot pork amongst each of the four bowls. Serve with sauce to pour over individual bowl.

** This delightful recipe is credited to AFarmGirlsDabbles.com!  Check out the website for more details and tips!

Favorite Recipes November 20, 2020

Swedish Green Mashed Potatoes

What You’ll Need:

  • 6 large russet potatoes
  • 1 c. sour cream
  • 1/4 lb. soft butter
  • 1 tsp salt, or to taste
  • 1 tsp pepper, or to taste
  • 1 tsp sugar, or to taste
  • 1 Tbsp dry dill
  • 1 pkg. frozen, chopped spinach
  • 4 green onions, chopped

What You’ll Do:

  1. Peel and cut the potatoes into 1 to 1.5 inch pieces, boil in salted water until soft, and drain.
  2. Combine sour cream, butter and all dry ingredients and add to potatoes with hand mixer or potato masher until light and fluffy.
  3. Add green onions and spinach to sour cream mixture.
  4. Fill in well-greased casserole dish and let sit to come to room temperature.
  5. Bake at 350º F for 30 minutes or until piping hot!

*Can be made ahead and refrigerated overnight or frozen.  Remember to bring to room temperature before baking.

Favorite Recipes September 12, 2020

Gordon Ramsey’s Meatballs in Fragrant Coconut Broth

What You’ll Need:

For the Meatballs

  • 1 small onion, peeled and finely diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, peeled and finely sliced
  • Olive oil, for frying
  • 1 tsp dried chilli flakes
  • 500 g (about 1 lb) ground beef
  • 75 g fresh breadcrumbs
  • 3–4 tbsp milk
  • Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

For the Sauce

  • 2 tsp coriander seeds
  • 4 cardamom pods, lightly crushed
  • 1 tsp ground turmeric
  • ½ tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1–2 tsp dried chili flakes, to taste
  • 2 lemongrass stalks, trimmed, bashed and cut into batons
  • 2 in piece of fresh root ginger, peeled and sliced
  • 400 ml chicken stock
  • 1 x 400 ml tin coconut milk
  • Zest and juice of 1 lime

On the Side

  • Jasmine rice cooked according to directions.

What You’ll Do:

  1.  First prepare the meatballs. Sauté the onion and garlic with seasoning in a hot oiled frying pan for about 5 minutes until soft and lightly colored, adding the chili flakes after a minute or two.
  2.  Place the mince in a large bowl and add seasoning. Put the breadcrumbs in a separate bowl and moisten with the milk. Add seasoning, then stir the breadcrumbs and onion mixture into the mince and combine well.
  3.  With wet hands, shape the mince mixture into balls about the size of a golf ball. Transfer to a lightly greased plate or tray and chill for 30 minutes until firm.
  4.  Brown the meatballs in a cleaned oiled pan for 4–5 minutes, turning frequently until nicely coloured on all sides.
  5.  Add the coriander seeds, cardamom, turmeric, cinnamon, chili flakes, lemongrass and ginger. Heat through, stirring, until aromatic, then add the stock and coconut milk and bring to a gentle simmer. Taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary.
  6.  Simmer for 8–12 minutes until the sauce is flavorful and thickened and the meatballs are cooked through.
  7.  Add the lime zest and juice and serve hot with a side of Jasmine rice.

This amazing recipe is perfectly paired with InterCoastal Vineyard’s incredible new 2019 Pinot Grigio, just released a few weeks ago.  This new exciting wine is like no other Pinot Grigio I have ever tasted.  Its subtle hint of citrus pops with every sip and compliments this meal so beautifully.  This Pinot Grigio is not yet on InterCoastal’s website, but if you would like to order a few bottles (believe me, you will want AT LEAST a few) contact Rachele Spaletta (my fabulous sis) — rachele@intercoastalwine.com.

Favorite Recipes August 18, 2020

Lemon-Basil Grilled Shrimp & Couscous

What You Need:

  • 1-1/2 cups uncooked pearl (Israeli) Couscous or Near East Couscous (Roasted Garlic & Olive Oil flavor)
  • 1/3 cup lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper
  • 1/2 cup minced fresh basil, divided
  • 1-2 tsp fresh thyme
  • 2 pounds uncooked large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 teaspoons grated lemon zest
  • feta cheese
  • kalamata olives, sliced lengthwise
  • capers

What To Do:

  1. Cook couscous according to package directions; remove from heat. Meanwhile, in a large bowl, whisk lemon juice, oil, mustard, garlic, salt and pepper until blended; stir in 1/4 cup basil and thyme. Stir 1/4 cup dressing into cooked couscous; reserve remaining dressing.
  2. Thread shrimp onto metal or soaked wooden skewers. Moisten a paper towel with cooking oil; using long-handled tongs, rub on grill rack to coat lightly. Grill shrimp, covered, over medium-high heat 2-3 minutes on each side or until shrimp turn pink.
  3. Remove shrimp from skewers; toss with reserved dressing. Serve with couscous. Sprinkle with lemon zest and remaining basil.
  4. At the very end, mix in crumbled feta cheese and kalamata olives and capers to taste.
  5. Drizzle with extra olive oil and lemon juice if desired.
Favorite Recipes February 17, 2020

Beef Sirloin Pasta Portobello

What You Need:

  • 1-1/4 pounds beef Top Sirloin Steak boneless, cut 1 inch thick
  • 8 ounces uncooked linguine or angel hair pasta
  • 1 to 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 large cloves garlic, crushed
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 8 ounces portobello mushroom caps, cut in half, then cut crosswise into 1/4 inch thick slices
  • 1 medium red, yellow or green bell pepper, cut into 1/8 inch thick strips
  • 1/4 c. thinly sliced fresh basil thinly sliced fresh basil leaves
  • 1/3 c. freshly grated Romano cheese

What To Do:

  1. Cook pasta according to package directions; drain. Keep warm.
  2. Meanwhile trim fat from beef Top Sirloin Steak. Cut steak lengthwise in half and then crosswise into 1/8-inch thick strips. In wok or large nonstick skillet, heat 1 to 2 tablespoons oil over medium-high heat until hot. Add beef and garlic, 1/2 at a time, and stir-fry 1 to 2 minutes or until outside surface is no longer pink. Remove from pan with slotted spoon; season with salt and pepper. Keep warm.
  3. In same pan, heat 1 tablespoon oil until hot. Add mushrooms and bell pepper strips; stir-fry 3 to 4 minutes or until mushrooms are tender. Remove from heat. Return beef to pan; add sliced basil and toss.
  4. Place pasta on large deep platter; arrange beef mixture on pasta. Sprinkle cheese over beef and pasta or pass separately, if desired.

**  Credit for this delicious recipe comes thanks to BeefItsWhatsForDinner.com.