3 Cold Chicken Noodle and Cashew Salad: A Flavorful Asian-Inspired Recipe You’ll Love

Few meals can hit the trifecta of delicious, nutritious, and easy-to-make quite like a Cold Chicken Noodle and Cashew Salad. With tender slices of pan-seared chicken, crunchy toasted cashews, crisp vegetables, and noodles bathed in a tangy, sweet-savory dressing, this salad is a total flavor bomb. Perfect for a light dinner, a hearty lunch, or a satisfying meal prep option, it’s one of those dishes that, once you’ve made it, you’ll crave regularly.

But where does this vibrant recipe come from? While not tied to a single country, this dish borrows flavors and techniques from various Asian cuisines — the umami of soy sauce, the aromatic warmth of sesame oil, the zing of rice vinegar, and the use of noodles and fresh vegetables. It’s a fusion-style salad that offers the best of multiple culinary traditions, blending them into a single bowl of goodness.

Let’s dive into what makes this dish not just tasty, but also practical and healthy.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Noodle Cashew Salad

🌟 Flavorful

Every bite bursts with a combination of contrasting textures and bold flavors. Think tender chicken, crunchy cashews, chewy noodles, crisp bell peppers and carrots, and a zesty, gingery dressing.

🥜 Nutritious

Packed with lean protein, fiber-rich veggies, and healthy fats from cashews and sesame oil, it’s a meal that fuels you without slowing you down.

⏰ Quick & Easy

The entire process takes approximately 30–35 minutes from start to finish. And you can meal prep it in advance — it gets even better after chilling in the fridge!

🍽️ Versatile

Serve it cold for summer lunches, or at room temperature as a dinner side. Vegetarian? Swap the chicken for tofu. Gluten-free? Use rice noodles or gluten-free spaghetti.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Salad Base:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1/2 pound noodles (udon, soba, or spaghetti)

• 1 cup cashews

• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced

• 1 carrot, julienned or shredded

• 2 scallions, finely chopped

• Sesame oil

• Mediterranean Sea salt (to taste)

• Watkins Pure Ground Black Pepper (to taste)

Dressing:

• 3 tbsp soy sauce

• 1 tbsp honey

• 1 1/2 tbsp rice vinegar

• 1 tbsp sesame oil

• 1 garlic clove, minced

• 1 tsp fresh grated ginger (or 1/2 tsp ground ginger)

• Optional: pinch of chili flakes or sriracha for heat

How to Make Chicken Noodle Cashew Salad

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

Start by boiling your noodles according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain them and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking. Toss with a dash of sesame oil to prevent sticking and set aside.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with Mediterranean Sea salt and Watkins Pure Ground Black Pepper. In a skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of sesame oil and cook the chicken for about 5–6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked through. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing thinly.

Step 3: Toast the Cashews

In a dry pan, toast the cashews for 2–3 minutes until they become fragrant and golden. Watch closely — they can burn quickly!

Step 4: Make the Dressing

Whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and optional chili flakes. Taste and adjust as needed. More honey for sweetness? More vinegar for tang? Make it yours.

Step 5: Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine the noodles, bell pepper, carrot, scallions, toasted cashews, and sliced chicken. Pour the dressing over and toss everything until well coated.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

Pop the salad in the fridge for at least 15–30 minutes before serving for the best flavor. Garnish with extra cashews or scallions for an added touch of elegance.

Tips, Swaps, and Variations

• Protein swap: Try tofu, shrimp, or even leftover rotisserie chicken.

• Add greens: Baby spinach, shredded cabbage, or chopped romaine gives it a more salad-like base.

• Crunch boost: Add shredded cucumber or chopped sugar snap peas for a refreshing crunch.

• Noodle options: Rice noodles, zoodles (zucchini noodles), or gluten-free spaghetti work great.

• Nut allergy? Use sunflower seeds or toasted pumpkin seeds.

Nutritional Value (Approx. per serving)

• Calories: 530

• Protein: 32g

• Fat: 27g

• Carbs: 39g

• Fiber: 4g

This meal is well-balanced — rich in protein, healthy fats, and fiber. It’ll keep you full and energized without the post-lunch slump.

The Origins: A Global Inspiration

While this dish isn’t traditional to any single culture, it’s a beautiful example of global fusion. Think of it as a cross between a Thai noodle salad and a Chinese chicken stir-fry — but served cold. The soy-ginger-honey dressing channels Southeast Asian flavors, while toasted nuts and crunchy veg keep it satisfying.

Dishes like this have become popular in Western kitchens thanks to the accessibility of Asian pantry staples. And because it’s so adaptable, it’s made its way into everything from street food stalls to upscale delis.

Make It, Love It, Share It

This Cold Chicken Noodle and Cashew Salad is one of those recipes that wins on all fronts. Easy to make, endlessly customizable, and packed with crave-worthy flavors. Plus, it holds up beautifully for meal prep — the kind of dish you’ll find yourself reaching for again and again.

Let me know how yours turns out! Did you spice it up with sriracha? Throw in a surprise ingredient? Tag your creation on social media and share your noodle magic with the world!

More Like This:

• Spicy Peanut Chicken Noodle Bowl

• Thai-Inspired Cucumber & Tofu Salad

• Ginger-Garlic Stir Fry with Rice Noodles

4 Mediterranean Comfort Food Night: Hearty Mince Bake & Elegant Lemon Cake

There are few things more satisfying than creating a cozy, delicious dinner from humble ingredients, especially when that meal turns into a full-blown Mediterranean feast. Whether you’re entertaining friends, impressing family, or simply treating yourself to something special, this dynamic duo of a savory bake and elegant cake will win hearts and delight your taste buds.

A Mediterranean Savory Star: Mince & Veggie Mash Bake

This upgraded take on the classic shepherd’s pie is a showstopper with a Mediterranean twist. Packed with hearty ground beef, aromatic veggies, and layers of herb-rich tomato goodness, it’s topped with creamy mashed potatoes blended with Swiss cheese. Think of it as comfort food with a passport.

Ingredients for Mince Layer:

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 onion, finely chopped

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 carrot, diced

• 1 celery stalk, diced

• 1 red bell pepper, diced

• 500g beef mince

• 1 can chopped tomatoes

• 1 tbsp tomato paste

• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tbsp soy sauce

• 1/2 tsp Watkins Organic Thyme Leaves

• 1/2 tsp Watkins Organic Oregano Leaves

• 1/4 tsp Watkins Organic Rosemary OR Basil Leaves

• Watkins Mediterranean Sea Salt, to taste

• Watkins Pure Ground Black Pepper, to taste

Ingredients for Potato Topping:

• 4–5 potatoes, peeled and chopped

• 2 tbsp butter

• 1/4 cup milk

• 1 garlic clove, minced (optional)

• 1/2 cup shredded Swiss cheese (plus extra for topping)

• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Boil potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain and mash with butter, milk, garlic (if using), and cheese. Set aside.

2. Heat olive oil in a pan, then add the onion, garlic, and all the chopped vegetables. Cook until softened.

3. Add beef mince and cook until browned. Drain if needed.

4. Stir in the tomato paste, chopped tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, and all the herbs. Season with Mediterranean Sea Salt and Watkins Black Pepper.

5. Simmer for 15 minutes until thickened.

6. Transfer to a baking dish. Spread mashed potatoes on top, and sprinkle with cheese.

7. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes until golden.

A Sweet Mediterranean Finale: Lemon, Lavender & Olive Oil Cake

To follow up that savory sensation, let’s bring some brightness with a delightful Lemon, Lavender & Olive Oil Cake. This dessert is light, floral, and totally captivating—just like the Mediterranean coast.

Ingredients for Cake:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1/2 tsp baking powder

• 1/4 tsp baking soda

• Pinch of  Watkins Mediterranean Sea Salt

• 3/4 cup sugar

• Zest of 2 lemons

• 1–2 tsp culinary lavender (dried or fresh)

• 3 large eggs

• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil

• 1/2 cup milk

• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice

• 1/2 tsp Watkins Organic Original Gourmet Baking Vanilla (optional)

• 1/2–1 cup fresh berries (optional)

For the Honey Drizzle:

• 2–3 tbsp honey

• 1–2 tsp lemon juice

• Pinch of Mediterranean Sea Salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan or 8-inch round pan.

2. In a bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, and sea salt.

3. In another bowl, rub lemon zest and lavender into sugar with your fingers.

4. Whisk eggs into the sugar mixture until fluffy. Stir in olive oil, milk, lemon juice, and vanilla.

5. Gently fold in dry ingredients. Toss the berries in a bit of flour and fold them into the batter.

6. Pour into the pan and bake for 35–45 minutes, or until golden brown.

7. Mix honey and lemon juice. Drizzle over the cake while it’s still warm and top with a sprinkle of sea salt and extra lavender.

Why These Recipes Work So Well Together

This meal is all about balance. The savory richness of the mince bake complements the bright, fragrant notes of the cake. It’s a dinner party-ready combo that feels both rustic and refined.

Both dishes also showcase Mediterranean ingredients—olive oil, garlic, fresh herbs, citrus, and of course, that beautiful sea salt. When paired, they create a cozy yet elegant dining experience that hits all the right notes.

Whether you’re throwing a dinner party or having a solo celebration, this Mediterranean combo brings warmth, flavor, and a touch of culinary magic to your table.

5 Smoky chicken enchiladas with black bean salsa

Welcome to Your New Favorite Fiesta Night

There’s something magical about the combination of smoky, spicy, and tangy flavors that makes Mexican-inspired dishes so addictive. Today, we’re diving into a flavor-packed culinary adventure: Smoky Chicken Enchiladas with Black Bean Salsa, all dressed up in Watkins gourmet seasonings, and topped off with a Mango-Chili Margarita to bring the party full circle.

Whether you’re cooking for friends, family, or just yourself (no judgment — we love a solo fiesta!), this recipe lineup will transform your kitchen into a sizzling haven of taste.

The Star of the Show: Smoky Chicken Enchiladas

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1 tsp Watkins Smoked Paprika

• 1 tsp Watkins Garlic Powder

• 1 tsp Watkins Onion Powder

• 1/2 tsp Watkins Ground Cumin

• Watkins Mediterranean Sea Salt, to taste

• Watkins Pure Ground Black Pepper, to taste

For the Sauce:

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 onion, chopped

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 can diced tomatoes

• 1 tsp Watkins Organic Smoked Paprika

• 1/2 tsp Watkins Organic Ground Cumin

• Watkins Mediterranean Sea Salt and Pure Ground Black Pepper, to taste

For the Enchiladas:

• 8-10 corn tortillas

• Shredded cheddar cheese

• Fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Mix all Watkins seasonings and rub them generously onto the chicken breasts.

3. Bake for 20-25 minutes until fully cooked. Let rest, then shred with two forks.

4. While the chicken bakes, heat olive oil in a pan and cook the onions until they are translucent. Add garlic, then diced tomatoes and all Watkins seasonings. Simmer for 10-15 minutes. Blend for a smoother consistency, if desired.

5. Warm tortillas to make them pliable. Dip each in sauce, fill with shredded chicken and cheese, roll, and place seam-side down in a baking dish.

6. Pour remaining sauce over the rolled tortillas and sprinkle with cheese.

7. Bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden.

8. Garnish with fresh cilantro.

The Perfect Sidekick: Black Bean Salsa

This fresh and zesty salsa is the ultimate side to your enchiladas. Packed with vibrant flavors and Watkins spices, it balances the rich smokiness of the main dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained

• 1 red bell pepper, diced

• 1 jalapeño, diced (keep seeds for heat!)

• 1 handful fresh cilantro, chopped

• Juice of 1 lime

• Watkins Mediterranean Sea Salt and Pure Ground Black Pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a bowl.

2. Stir well and let it sit for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Creamy Bonus: Zesty Lime Crema

A cooling drizzle to balance the heat!

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt

• Juice of 1/2 lime

• 1/2 tsp Watkins Garlic Powder

• Pinch Watkins Ground Cumin

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Mix all ingredients in a bowl.

2. Chill for 10 minutes before serving.

Guac it Out: Quick Guacamole

Creamy, fresh, and loaded with flavor.

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe avocados

• Juice of 1/2 lime

• 1 garlic clove (minced) or 1/4 tsp Watkins Garlic Powder

• Fresh cilantro, chopped

• Diced red bell pepper or jalapeño

• Watkins Mediterranean Sea Salt and Pure Ground Black Pepper, to taste

• Optional: Pinch of Watkins Smoked Paprika or Ground Cumin

Instructions:

1. Mash avocados to your desired texture.

2. Mix in all other ingredients and adjust seasoning to taste.

Raise Your Glass: Mango-Chili Margarita

The ultimate fiesta cocktail with a Watkins twist!

Ingredients:

• 2 oz tequila

• 1 oz fresh lime juice

• 1 oz mango puree or nectar

• 3/4 oz orange liqueur

• 1/2 oz agave syrup or honey

• Ice

For the Rim:

• Watkins Organic Smoked Paprika

• Watkins Mediterranean Sea Salt

• Watkins Pure Ground Black Pepper

• (Optional) Watkins Cayenne Pepper for extra heat

Instructions:

1. Mix rim ingredients and coat the glass rim.

2. Shake all cocktail ingredients with ice.

3. Strain into the prepared glass with fresh ice.

4. Garnish with lime or a mango slice.

Wrap-Up: A Watkins-Spiced Fiesta to Remember

From the smoky chicken rub to the fiery margarita rim, Watkins seasonings take this meal from delicious to unforgettable. This whole spread is more than a dinner — it’s an experience. So gather your ingredients, turn up the music, and let this bold, flavor-rich meal bring some spice to your night.

Keywords: smoky chicken enchiladas, black bean salsa, mango-chili margarita, Watkins spices, easy Mexican recipes, spicy enchilada recipe, fiesta dinner ideas, creamy lime crema, quick guacamole, spicy margarita

6 Watkins-Spiced Beef Bowl with Tahini Cauliflower and Harissa: A Flavor-Packed Bowl You’ll Crave

If your tastebuds are in the mood for something bold, aromatic, and incredibly satisfying, this recipe is your new go-to. Inspired by the rich, earthy flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine, our Watkins-Spiced Beef Bowl with Tahini Cauliflower and Harissa offers a layered experience of spiced meat, creamy tahini, roasted vegetables, fluffy couscous, and fiery harissa sauce.

This isn’t just any beef bowl — it’s a spice lover’s dream built on the time-honored flavor power of Watkins Organic Ground Cumin and Watkins Mediterranean Sea Salt. Each bite carries the warm, earthy notes of cum, complemented by the freshness of lemon, garlic, and herbs — all wrapped up in a comforting, easy-to-assemble bowl. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep lunch!

The Origins of Inspiration

This bowl draws heavily from Middle Eastern culinary traditions, where cumin, tahini, and fresh herbs reign supreme. The cumin-spiced beef takes cues from traditional kebabs, while the roasted cauliflower with tahini drizzle echoes dishes like musabaha and roasted mezze. Adding harissa — a North African chili paste — gives it a fiery twist and adds even more depth.

Thanks to Watkins’ organic and premium-quality spices, you don’t need a pantry full of ingredients to create something gourmet. The Watkins brand, known for over 150 years of excellence, brings out the best in each component.

Recipe: Watkins-Spiced Beef Bowl with Tahini Cauliflower and Harissa

Ingredients

For the Beef:

• 800g beef rump steak, cubed

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• Juice of ½ lemon

• 1.5 tsp Watkins Organic Ground Cumin

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• Pinch of Watkins Mediterranean Sea Salt

For the Roasted Cauliflower:

• 1 cauliflower, cut into small florets

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp Watkins Organic Ground Cumin

• 2 tbsp tahini

• Juice of ½ lemon

• Pinch of Watkins Mediterranean Sea Salt

For the Couscous:

• 1 cup couscous

• 1 cup boiling water or broth

• Drizzle of olive oil

• Pinch of salt (or Watkins Mediterranean Sea Salt)

For Garnish & Fresh Elements:

• 1 tomato, diced

• Fresh coriander leaves, chopped

• Flat-leaf parsley, chopped

For the Harissa Drizzle:

• 1–2 tbsp harissa paste (adjust heat to taste)

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• Juice of ½ lemon

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Beef

In a large bowl, combine the minced garlic, lemon juice, Watkins Organic Ground Cumin, olive oil, and Watkins Mediterranean Sea Salt. Add the beef cubes and toss well to coat. Cover and let marinate for at least 20 minutes (or up to overnight for a deeper flavor).

Step 2: Roast the Cauliflower

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, Watkins Organic Ground Cumin, and Watkins Mediterranean Sea Salt. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet and roast for 25–30 minutes, until golden and slightly crispy on the edges.

While the cauliflower roasts, whisk tahini with lemon juice and a few tablespoons of water until smooth and pourable. Set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Couscous

In a bowl, combine couscous with a pinch of salt and a drizzle of olive oil. Pour boiling water or broth over it, cover, and let it steam for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.

Step 4: Cook the Beef

Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated beef cubes for 2–3 minutes per side, until they are seared on the outside and tender on the inside.

Step 5: Mix the Harissa Drizzle

In a small bowl, combine harissa paste, olive oil, and lemon juice. Adjust to your preferred spice level.

Step 6: Assemble Your Bowl

• Start with a bed of couscous.

• Add a generous scoop of roasted cauliflower.

• Top with cumin-spiced beef.

• Sprinkle over diced tomato, fresh parsley, and coriander.

• Drizzle with tahini and harissa sauces.

• Finish with an optional extra sprinkle of Watkins Mediterranean Sea Salt for a final flavor pop.

Why This Recipe Works

Watkins Organic Ground Cumin is the MVP here — its rich, earthy aroma forms the backbone of both the beef and the cauliflower. The Watkins Mediterranean Sea Salt enhances each layer, balancing spice and brightness. Harissa adds a smoky heat, while tahini cools everything down with nutty creaminess. Fresh herbs and tomato lift the bowl, making it vibrant and satisfying.

Tips for Success:

• Don’t skip the marinade! Even 20 minutes of soaking with Watkins spices makes a difference.

• For extra creaminess, double the tahini drizzle.

• Add pickled onions or cucumbers for crunch and acidity.

A Healthy, Hearty Bowl

Beyond flavor, this recipe is a nutritious all-rounder. You’ve got lean protein from beef, fiber and antioxidants from cauliflower, healthy fats in tahini and olive oil, and complex carbs from couscous. It’s a bowl that fills you up without weighing you down.

And thanks to the high-quality flavor of Watkins Organic Ground Cumin and Sea Salt, you don’t need to overload on ingredients to get restaurant-worthy results.

Final Thoughts

This Watkins-Spiced Beef Bowl with Tahini Cauliflower and Harissa is a feast for the senses. It’s bold yet balanced, spicy yet smooth, comforting yet clean. It’s your Middle Eastern-inspired weeknight hero that feels special without requiring hours in the kitchen.

So next time you reach for cumin or sea salt, make it Watkins. Your bowl (and your taste buds) will thank you.

This post is proudly spiced with Watkins — makers of exceptional, organic seasonings and ingredients since 1868.

7 Gourmet Italian Night In: Bolognese Rotolo, Garlic Bread & a Sweet Skillet Finishing. 

Let’s dive fork-first into these delightfully elevated classics!

🌿 Bolognese Rotolo with Watkins Herbs & Crunchy Breadcrumb Topping

Origin: The rotolo, which means “roll” in Italian, is a lesser-known but cherished cousin of lasagna, where pasta sheets are rolled with filling and baked upright. Our twist combines a silky Bolognese sauce with fresh herbs to create a comforting, visually stunning centerpiece.

Ingredients:

• 200g 5% fat beef mince

• 1 onion, chopped

• 2 carrots, peeled and diced

• 2-3 garlic cloves, minced

• A handful of mushrooms, chopped

• 400g fresh or canned tomatoes

• 600ml beef stock

• 1 tsp Watkins Organic Thyme Leaves

• ½ tsp dried chili flakes (optional)

• 1 tbsp fresh oregano, chopped

• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (divided)

• 6 fresh lasagne sheets

• 50g mature cheddar, grated

Breadcrumb Crunch Topping:

• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs

• 1 tbsp vegetable oil or butter

• 1 garlic clove, finely minced (or Watkins garlic powder)

• 2 tbsp Parmesan cheese

• ½ tsp Watkins Mediterranean Sea Salt

• Optional: parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Sauce Prep: Heat oil, add onion, carrots, mushrooms, and garlic. Sauté till soft. Add beef, brown it. Mix in tomatoes, stock, Watkins thyme, chili flakes, oregano, and 1 tbsp parsley. Simmer 20–25 mins. Blend until smooth.

2. Roll the Rotolo. Briefly boil the lasagne sheets. Spread sauce over each, roll them up, cut in half, and place upright in a greased baking dish.

3. Crunch Topping: Toast breadcrumbs with garlic in oil or butter. Stir in Parmesan, sea salt, and parsley.

4. Bake It Up: Pour extra sauce into the dish, top with cheddar and breadcrumb mix. Bake at 200°C (180°C fan) for 25–30 mins until bubbly and golden.

Serve with...

🧄✨ Upgraded Garlic Bread with Watkins Mediterranean Sea Salt

This isn’t your average garlic bread. The Watkins Mediterranean Sea Salt brings out the savory, buttery, herby flavors and gives you that irresistible edge.

Ingredients:

• 1 baguette or crusty loaf

• 3 garlic cloves, minced (or Watkins garlic powder)

• 60g unsalted butter, softened

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

• ½ tsp Watkins Mediterranean Sea Salt

• Optional: grated Parmesan or cheddar

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 200°C.

2. Mix butter, oil, garlic, parsley, and sea salt.

3. Slice bread, spread mixture generously.

4. Bake 10–12 mins wrapped in foil for soft bread, or uncovered for crispier edges. Grill for 2 mins to finish.

Optional: Add cheese in the last 2 minutes for melt-in-heaven.

🍅💫 Roasted Tomato & Herb Dipping Sauce

This robust dipping sauce is rich, silky, and punches with flavor, perfect for dunking your garlic bread or spooning over rotolo.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes or 1 can chopped tomatoes

• 1 garlic clove

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• ½ tsp Watkins Organic Thyme Leaves

• ½ tsp Watkins Mediterranean Sea Salt

• ¼ tsp Watkins Organic Pure Ground Black Pepper

• Fresh parsley or basil

• Splash of balsamic vinegar or lemon juice

Instructions:

1. Roast tomatoes and garlic at 200°C for 20–25 mins.

2. Blend with herbs, salt, pepper, and vinegar or lemon. Adjust to taste.

3. Serve warm or chilled as a dip or drizzle.

🍪 Skillet Chocolate Chip Cookie with Watkins Vanilla

End the evening on a sweet, gooey note with this war cookie, featuring crispy edges and a molten middle. The Watkins vanilla makes the flavor sing!

Ingredients:

• 100g unsalted butter

• 100g brown sugar

• 1 egg

• 1 tsp Watkins Organic Original Gourmet Baking Vanilla

• 150g flour

• ½ tsp baking soda

• ½ tsp Watkins Mediterranean Sea Salt

• ½ cup chocolate chips

• Optional: scoop of vanilla ice cream

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 180°C.

2. Melt butter, mix with sugar. Add egg and Watkins vanilla.

3. Stir in dry ingredients and fold in chocolate chips.

4. Press dough into an ovenproof skillet. Bake 15–20 mins.

5. Serve warm, accompanied by ice cream and a sprinkle of sea salt on top.

Final Thoughts

From the comforting spiral of rotolo to the toasty perfection of garlic bread and the sweet finale of a warm cookie, this full gourmet meal is simple yet satisfying. With the flavor-boosting power of Watkins spices and herbs, every bite becomes unforgettable.

Whether it’s for a date night, a weekend treat, or a holiday meal with friends, this Italian-inspired spread turns your kitchen into the coziest spot on Earth.

Stay saucy and keep cooking! 🍽️

8 Smoky Hungarian Chicken Goulash with Hearty Potatoes + Easy Apricot-Cream Cheese Puff Pastry Delight

 Looking for a cozy, soul-warming meal that brings old-world flavor with a modern twist? This Watkins-Style Hungarian Chicken Goulash is a rich, smoky stew with tender chicken, sweet bell peppers, chunky potatoes, and a paprika-kissed broth that’s perfect for chilly nights. And for dessert? We’re keeping it simple but impressive with a ridiculously easy Apricot-Cream Cheese Puff Pastry drizzled in melted chocolate. It’s the complete comfort-food package with European charm.

🇭🇺 But First: What is Goulash, and Where Did It Come From?

Goulash hails from Hungary, dating back to the 9th century, when Magyar shepherds would slow-cook meat and store it in bags made of sheep’s stomachs. (Chic, right?) Over time, goulash evolved into Hungary’s national dish, especially once paprika made its spicy debut in the 16th century.

Traditionally made with beef and cooked low and slow, this version gives it a modern twist with chicken breast and Watkins spices, making it lighter but still packed with depth and richness. Bonus: it’s faster to cook—perfect for weeknights or weekend dinner parties.

🍲 Watkins-Style Hungarian Chicken Goulash with Potatoes

Serves: 4
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hour

🛒 Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

• 1 tbsp butter

• 2 large yellow onions, sliced

• 5 cloves garlic, minced

• 6 yellow or orange bell peppers, sliced

• 3 tomatoes, diced

• 1.5 lbs chicken breasts, cubed

• 1 tbsp Watkins Organic Smoked Paprika

• 1 tsp Watkins Mediterranean Sea Salt, plus more to taste

• ½ tsp caraway seeds

• 2 bay leaves

• 1 tsp freshly ground Watkins Organic Black Peppercorn

• 2 cups chicken broth

• 3–4 Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into chunky pieces

• Optional: sour cream, for topping

🔥 Directions:

1. Sauté your aromatics: Heat olive oil and butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onions and cook until golden (1 minute). Add garlic and stir for 1 minute.

2. Add veggies & spice: Stir in bell peppers and tomatoes. Cook until soft (5–7 mins). Sprinkle in paprika, caraway seeds, salt, pepper, and bay leaves. Let the spices bloom for 1 to 2 minutes.

3. Brown the chicken: Add cubed chicken and sear until lightly browned on all sides.

4. Add broth & potatoes: Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add the chunky potatoes, reduce the heat, cover, and simmer gently for 30–35 minutes, until the chicken is tender and the potatoes are cooked through but still hold their shape.

5. Final season & serve: Taste and adjust salt and pepper. Serve hot, optionally topped with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

🍷 Wine Pairing: What to Sip with Hungarian Chicken Goulash

A smoky, paprika-rich steak requires a wine that complements it

• Best Match: Hungarian Bikavér (a.k.a. Bull’s Blood), earthy and bold.

• Easy-to-Find Swaps: Try a Zinfandel, Grenache, or Tempranillo.

• For lighter palates: A silky Pinot Noir also pairs surprisingly well.

🍑 Apricot-Cream Cheese Puff Pastry Delight with Chocolate Drizzle

Serves: 6–8
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins

🛒 Ingredients:

• 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened

• 2–3 tbsp apricot jam

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

• Optional: powdered sugar, sliced almonds, or orange zest

Chocolate Drizzle:

• ¼ cup chocolate chips

• 1 tsp butter or coconut oil

🔥 Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Cut puff pastry into 6–8 squares.

3. Spread a bit of cream cheese and a dab of apricot jam in the center of each.

4. Fold corners in or bake flat for that rustic look.

5. Brush with egg wash. Bake 15–20 minutes until golden and puffed.

6. Melt chocolate chips + butter in microwave (30 seconds). Stir until smooth.

7. Drizzle over pastries. Sprinkle with powdered sugar or almonds for extra flair.

📝 Why This Meal Works

This combo hits all the cozy notes:

• The goulash is rustic, intensely flavorful, and warming.

• The wine enhances the paprika without overpowering it.

• The dessert is a quick win—easy to make, gorgeous to serve, and satisfying without being heavy.

Perfect for date night, family dinners, or impressing guests without breaking a sweat.

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Disclosure: I only recommend products I would use myself, and all opinions expressed here are our own. His post may contain affiliate links through which I earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.