Elena

Elena is the founder and creative heart behind PagosaRecipes, a culinary haven where cooking is celebrated as an adventure, a cherished tradition, and a canvas for creativity. Inspired by joyful memories from her family’s kitchen, Elena transforms her passion for vibrant flavors into approachable recipes that welcome cooks of all experience levels to explore and enjoy.

Through PagosaRecipes, Elena offers a diverse collection of comforting classics, global dishes, and inventive creations, all crafted with fresh, wholesome ingredients. More than just a recipe site, PagosaRecipes fosters a warm community where Elena connects with fellow food lovers, sharing stories, tips, and the joy of cooking together.

Latest from Elena

The heart of a Tuscan Chicken Soup lies in its ingredients. Each one brings flavor and comfort.

Tuscan Chicken Soup Creamy Comfort in a Bowl

When the chill in the air calls for a bowl of warmth, Tuscan Chicken Soup fills the need perfectly. Packed

To make a great cream of onion soup, you need a few simple ingredients. The main onion soup ingredients are four large yellow onions, which provide rich flavor. You will also need three tablespoons of unsalted butter and one tablespoon of olive oil. These fats help to sauté the onions and add depth.

Cream of Onion Soup Flavorful and Simple Recipe

Are you ready to warm your soul with a bowl of Cream of Onion Soup? This simple and flavorful recipe

To make a great cream of mushroom soup, you need a few key ingredients. Start with mushrooms. The best mushrooms for soup are shiitake, cremini, and button. Each type adds a unique flavor. I often use a mix for depth and richness.

Cream of Mushroom Soup Simple and Hearty Recipe

Cream of mushroom soup is a comforting classic that warms the soul. In this simple and hearty recipe, I’ll guide

To make cookies & cream cookies, you need key ingredients. The base recipe includes:

Cookies & Cream Cookies Delightful and Easy Recipe

Do you love cookies & cream? You’re in for a treat! This delightful and easy recipe for Cookies & Cream

Cheesy savory pancakes are a delightful twist on classic pancakes. These pancakes combine the fluffiness of traditional pancakes with rich, melted cheese and bold flavors. You can enjoy them for breakfast, lunch, or even dinner. They are easy to make and taste amazing!

Cheesy Savory Pancakes Irresistible Breakfast Delight

Are you ready to transform your breakfast game? Cheesy savory pancakes are not just delicious; they’re a warm hug on

$To make a tasty Southwest Chicken Salad, gather these items: - 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken breast - 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved - 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen) - 1 red bell pepper, diced - 1 avocado, diced - ½ cup red onion, finely chopped - 1 cup romaine lettuce, chopped - ½ cup cilantro, chopped - ½ cup Greek yogurt (as a dressing base) - 2 tablespoons lime juice - 1 teaspoon chili powder - 1 teaspoon cumin - Salt and pepper to taste - Tortilla strips for garnish You can change things up in this salad. Here are some ideas: - Use grilled chicken instead of boiled. - Swap black beans for kidney or pinto beans. - Add jalapeños for heat. - Replace Greek yogurt with sour cream or avocado dressing. - Use any lettuce you like, such as spinach or mixed greens. This salad is not just tasty, but also good for you. Here’s a quick look at its nutrition: - Chicken: Great source of protein. - Black Beans: Rich in fiber and iron. - Avocado: Packed with healthy fats. - Corn: Provides vitamins and a sweet crunch. - Vegetables: Add vitamins, minerals, and fiber. - Greek Yogurt: Offers protein and probiotics. This salad keeps you full and nourished. Enjoy making and eating it! {{ingredient_image_1}} 1. Start with a large bowl. Add the shredded chicken, black beans, cherry tomatoes, corn, red bell pepper, diced avocado, red onion, and chopped romaine lettuce. 2. Mix all the ingredients gently. You want everything to blend well but stay whole. 3. Once mixed, set the bowl aside. This lets the flavors mingle as you prepare the dressing. 4. Chill the salad in the fridge for 15-20 minutes. This step makes it taste even better! - Use leftover chicken for ease. It saves time and adds flavor. - If you cook chicken fresh, boil it first. Cook it until it’s no longer pink. - After cooking, let it cool slightly. Then, use two forks to shred it easily. - For a fun twist, try using a stand mixer. Just a few seconds on low speed works wonders! 1. Take a small bowl. Add Greek yogurt, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. 2. Mix these ingredients until they turn smooth and creamy. A whisk works best for this. 3. Taste the dressing. Adjust salt or lime juice as you like. The flavor should be fresh and zesty. 4. Drizzle the creamy dressing over the chicken salad. Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly. Enjoy the process and have fun with your Southwest Chicken Salad! To boost the taste of your salad, add spices. Try smoked paprika for a smoky kick. You can also mix in garlic powder or onion powder for depth. A pinch of cayenne pepper adds heat without overpowering. Always taste as you go. Adjust spices based on your preference. You can prep this salad a day in advance. Mix all the salad ingredients except the avocado and tortilla strips. Store them in a bowl, cover tightly, and place in the fridge. Make the dressing and keep it separate. Before serving, add the avocado and dressing. This keeps everything fresh and tasty. Serve this salad in a colorful bowl. It looks great with vibrant veggies. You can also add extra toppings. Crumbled feta or sliced jalapeños add flair. Pair it with lime wedges for a fresh burst. Guests will love the crunch of tortilla strips on top. Pro Tips Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for fresh vegetables and herbs. They enhance the taste and texture of the salad. Customize Your Protein: Feel free to substitute the chicken with grilled shrimp or blackened tofu for a different protein source. Make It Ahead: Prepare the salad a few hours in advance and store it in the fridge to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. Spice It Up: Adjust the chili powder and cumin according to your spice preference. Add jalapeños for an extra kick! {{image_2}} You can make this salad without chicken. Use black beans or chickpeas for protein. Add grilled veggies for flavor. Roasted corn or sweet potatoes work well, too. You might enjoy using quinoa as a base. It adds a nice texture and is very filling. If you want more protein, try adding shrimp or tofu. Grilled shrimp adds a nice touch. Tofu can soak up the dressing well. You can also use turkey or pulled pork instead of chicken. Each choice adds a unique flavor twist to your salad. Mixing in different flavors can make your salad special. Try adding diced mango or pineapple for sweetness. A bit of jalapeño can add heat. Consider a sprinkle of feta cheese for a salty kick. You can also switch the dressing. A lime vinaigrette or a spicy ranch can change things up. To keep your Southwest Chicken Salad fresh, store it in an airtight container. This prevents air and moisture from making the salad soggy. If you plan to add tortilla strips, keep them separate. This way, they stay crisp until serving. In the fridge, your salad lasts about three to four days. However, the avocado may brown, so eat it sooner if possible. Check for any off smells or changes in texture before eating. You can freeze the salad, but it's best to freeze only the chicken and beans. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Use them within three months for the best taste. When ready, thaw in the fridge overnight. Add fresh veggies and dressing before serving for a tasty meal. You can use sour cream as a substitute for Greek yogurt. It has a similar texture and tang. If you want a dairy-free option, try using avocado or hummus. Both options add creaminess to the salad. You can also use a dairy-free yogurt made from almond or coconut. Yes, you can use many types of beans. Pinto beans and kidney beans work well in this salad. You can also try chickpeas for a different taste. Just make sure to rinse and drain any canned beans. This keeps your salad fresh and tasty. You can find great Southwest Chicken Salad at many restaurants. Look for places that focus on fresh ingredients. Local diners and cafes often make tasty salads. You can also make it at home for a fresher option. The recipe we shared is easy and fun to make! This blog post covered all you need for a tasty Southwest chicken salad. We explored the key and optional ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for great flavor. You can also find ways to make it ahead and customize it. Don't forget about storage methods to keep leftovers fresh. Enjoy all the delicious options and variations this salad offers. Get creative and make it suit your taste!$

Southwest Chicken Salad Tasty and Easy Recipe

Are you ready to spice up your meal plans? In this Southwest Chicken Salad Tasty and Easy Recipe, I’ll show

$- 1 pound large shrimp, deveined and peeled - 4 tablespoons olive oil - 4 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon paprika - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - 1 teaspoon lemon zest - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh parsley for garnish - Lemon wedges for serving You can switch fresh herbs for dried ones if needed. For a spicy kick, add chili flakes. You can also use different spices like cumin or coriander for a unique flavor. Each serving has about 200 calories. The macronutrient breakdown is roughly: - Protein: 24g - Fat: 10g - Carbohydrates: 2g This dish packs a punch with flavor while keeping it light and healthy. Enjoy it guilt-free! {{ingredient_image_1}} 1. First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This helps cook the shrimp evenly. 2. Next, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This makes cleanup easy. 3. In a large bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, oregano, thyme, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix these well to create a tasty marinade. - Marinating time is key to good flavor. Let the shrimp soak up the marinade for about 15-20 minutes at room temperature. This step enhances the taste. - For an even coating, add the shrimp to the marinade and toss gently. Make sure every shrimp gets some of that delicious mix. - Spread the marinated shrimp in a single layer on your baking sheet. This helps them cook evenly. - Roast the shrimp for 8-10 minutes. They are done when they turn pink and opaque. - Watch closely to avoid overcooking. Overcooked shrimp can become tough and rubbery. To make your shrimp burst with flavor, use fresh, large shrimp. Fresh shrimp have a sweet taste and firm texture. Look for shrimp that smell like the ocean, not fishy. Marinating is key. Combine olive oil, minced garlic, and herbs in a bowl. This mix coats the shrimp with flavor. Let them sit for 15-20 minutes to soak up the goodness. The longer they marinate, the more flavorful they become. For serving, place the shrimp on a large platter. Arrange lemon wedges around the shrimp for a bright touch. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and freshness. This makes your dish look appealing and inviting. Try serving with a side of rice or crusty bread. These pair well with the shrimp and soak up the tasty juices. Overcooking shrimp is a common error. Cook them just until they turn pink and opaque. This usually takes 8-10 minutes at 400°F. If they curl tightly, they are overcooked and rubbery. Also, don’t skip marinating. Skipping this step means missing out on rich flavors. If you rush, the shrimp won’t taste as good. Take the time to marinate, and your dish will shine. Pro Tips Choose Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp will enhance the flavor and texture of your dish. Look for shrimp that smell clean and have a firm texture. Don't Skimp on Marinating: Marinating the shrimp for the full 20 minutes allows the flavors to penetrate, resulting in a more flavorful dish. Watch Cooking Time: Shrimp cooks quickly; keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking. They should be pink and opaque when done. Garnish for Color: Adding freshly chopped parsley not only enhances the presentation but also adds a fresh flavor that complements the shrimp. {{image_2}} You can spice things up by adding hot sauce to the marinade. This gives the shrimp a nice kick. Try using a few drops to start. Adjust based on your spice level. You can also explore different herbs for unique twists. Fresh basil or cilantro can make the dish pop. Each herb adds its own flair, so feel free to experiment. This recipe is naturally gluten-free, which is great for those with gluten sensitivities. Just check your ingredients to be sure. For a dairy-free version, this recipe is perfect as it contains no dairy. You can enjoy it without worries. Pair Garlic Herb Roasted Shrimp with a light salad. A fresh green salad or roasted veggies complements the dish well. You might also serve it with rice or quinoa for a heartier meal. For beverages, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc works well. You can also choose a light sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing touch. After enjoying your garlic herb roasted shrimp, store leftovers safely. Place the shrimp in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh and tasty. Refrigerate the container right away. Aim to eat leftovers within two days for best flavor. If you want to keep them longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap the shrimp tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Then, put them in a freezer-safe bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. To reheat the shrimp, do it gently. The best method is using the oven. Preheat it to 300°F (150°C). Place the shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet. Heat for about 5-7 minutes. This keeps shrimp soft and juicy. Avoid using high heat. This can make the shrimp tough and rubbery. You can also use a skillet on low heat. Just stir gently to warm them up. Garlic herb roasted shrimp lasts a few days in the fridge. Consume within two days for safety. When frozen, the shrimp can last for about three months. Look for signs of spoilage before eating. If the shrimp smells off or looks dull, it’s best to throw them away. Fresh shrimp should smell like the ocean and be bright in color. Always trust your senses when checking for spoilage. You can tell shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque. Look for a firm texture. If they curl into a C shape, they are perfectly cooked. Overcooking can make shrimp tough, so keep an eye on them. For this recipe, roast the shrimp for 8-10 minutes. Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Thaw them in the fridge overnight for best results. If you're short on time, place them in a bowl of cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Once thawed, pat them dry before marinating. This helps the flavors stick better. Garlic Herb Roasted Shrimp pairs well with many sides. Here are a few tasty options: - Rice: White or brown rice absorbs the flavors well. - Pasta: Serve over spaghetti or angel hair for a filling meal. - Salad: A fresh green salad adds a nice crunch. - Vegetables: Roasted or steamed veggies like asparagus or broccoli enhance the dish. - Bread: Garlic bread or a baguette is perfect for soaking up any juices. In this post, we explored the simple steps to make Garlic Herb Roasted Shrimp. You learned about essential ingredients, helpful tips for cooking, and ways to store leftovers. Perfecting this dish comes down to marinating and avoiding overcooking. Remember, fresh shrimp will always yield the best flavor. Enjoy experimenting with seasoning and serving suggestions. Each bite will be a tasty delight! Make sure to share your results with friends and family. Your kitchen creations can inspire others to enjoy this dish too!$