Dad’s Delight: Kirkland Signature Recipes That Will Win His Heart
Dad. The man, the myth, the legend. And often, the discerning palate. If you’re looking for a way to show your appreciation for your dad, or simply want to impress him with a delicious meal, look no further than the aisles of Costco. Specifically, Kirkland Signature products – a treasure trove of high-quality ingredients perfect for crafting dad-approved dishes.
This blog post is dedicated to my dad, a true Kirkland Signature aficionado. Over the years, he’s developed a fondness for certain items, and I’ve learned to transform them into family favorites. So, grab your Costco card and get ready to create some culinary magic! We’ll explore several recipes featuring his (and now our family’s) favorite Kirkland Signature foods, complete with detailed instructions and tips to ensure success.
## Why Kirkland Signature?
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s quickly address why Kirkland Signature products are so appealing, especially to dads (or anyone who appreciates value and quality):
* **Quality Ingredients:** Kirkland Signature often sources its ingredients from reputable producers, ensuring a superior product. Think premium meats, cheeses, and nuts.
* **Bulk Savings:** Buying in bulk is a dad’s superpower! Kirkland Signature offers significant savings compared to smaller packages of similar quality ingredients.
* **Reliability:** Once you find a Kirkland Signature product you love, you can usually rely on its consistent quality and availability.
* **Versatility:** Many Kirkland Signature items can be used in a wide variety of recipes, making them a great investment for your pantry.
## Dad’s Favorite Kirkland Signature Ingredients (and Recipes!)
Okay, let’s get to the good stuff! Here are some of my dad’s all-time favorite Kirkland Signature products and the recipes we’ve created around them:
### 1. Kirkland Signature Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts
These are a staple in our household. They’re incredibly versatile and can be used in countless dishes. My dad appreciates their consistent quality and the fact that they’re already boneless and skinless, saving prep time.
**Recipe 1: Garlic Herb Roasted Chicken with Roasted Vegetables**
This is a classic, comforting dish that’s perfect for a Sunday dinner. It’s relatively hands-off, allowing you to spend time with family while it cooks.
**Ingredients:**
* 4-6 Kirkland Signature Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts
* 2 lbs Yukon Gold Potatoes, quartered
* 1 lb Carrots, peeled and chopped
* 1 large Onion, quartered
* 2-3 cloves Garlic, minced
* 2 tbsp Olive Oil
* 1 tbsp Dried Italian Herbs
* 1 tsp Paprika
* Salt and Pepper to taste
* 1 Lemon, quartered
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. **Prepare Vegetables:** In a large bowl, toss the potatoes, carrots, and onion with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, pepper, and paprika.
3. **Arrange Vegetables:** Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a large baking sheet.
4. **Prepare Chicken:** Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, combine the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, minced garlic, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper.
5. **Season Chicken:** Rub the herb mixture all over the chicken breasts.
6. **Roast Chicken and Vegetables:** Place the chicken breasts on top of the vegetables on the baking sheet. Scatter lemon quarters amongst the vegetables. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
7. **Rest and Serve:** Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving with the roasted vegetables. Squeeze the roasted lemon juice over the chicken and vegetables for added flavor.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Add other vegetables:** Feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli florets, Brussels sprouts, or bell peppers to the roasting pan.
* **Use different herbs:** Experiment with different herb combinations like rosemary and thyme, or sage and oregano.
* **Marinate the chicken:** For even more flavor, marinate the chicken in the herb mixture for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight) before roasting.
* **Make a pan sauce:** While the chicken rests, deglaze the baking sheet with a little chicken broth or white wine and scrape up any browned bits to create a delicious pan sauce.
**Recipe 2: Chicken Stir-Fry with Kirkland Signature Stir-Fry Vegetables**
This is a quick and easy weeknight meal that’s packed with flavor and nutrients. Using Kirkland Signature’s pre-cut stir-fry vegetables saves a ton of prep time.
**Ingredients:**
* 1.5 lbs Kirkland Signature Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
* 1 bag Kirkland Signature Stir-Fry Vegetables
* 2 tbsp Soy Sauce
* 1 tbsp Honey
* 1 tbsp Cornstarch
* 1 tsp Ginger, grated
* 1 tsp Garlic, minced
* 1 tbsp Sesame Oil
* Cooked Rice, for serving
* Sesame Seeds (optional), for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare Sauce:** In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, cornstarch, grated ginger, and minced garlic.
2. **Cook Chicken:** Heat the sesame oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through.
3. **Add Vegetables:** Add the Kirkland Signature Stir-Fry Vegetables to the wok and cook until tender-crisp.
4. **Add Sauce:** Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables and cook until the sauce thickens, stirring constantly.
5. **Serve:** Serve the stir-fry over cooked rice. Garnish with sesame seeds, if desired.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Add protein:** Tofu or shrimp can be substituted for the chicken.
* **Spice it up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.
* **Use different vegetables:** Add other vegetables like mushrooms, water chestnuts, or baby corn to the stir-fry.
* **Adjust the sauce:** Adjust the amount of soy sauce and honey to your liking.
### 2. Kirkland Signature Smoked Salmon
My dad loves smoked salmon, especially on bagels or crackers. Kirkland Signature’s smoked salmon is consistently high-quality and has a great smoky flavor.
**Recipe 1: Smoked Salmon Bagel with Cream Cheese, Capers, and Red Onion**
This is a classic combination that’s perfect for breakfast or brunch. It’s simple to make but incredibly satisfying.
**Ingredients:**
* Bagels, sliced
* Cream Cheese, softened
* Kirkland Signature Smoked Salmon
* Capers
* Red Onion, thinly sliced
* Fresh Dill (optional), for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. **Toast Bagels:** Toast the bagels to your liking.
2. **Spread Cream Cheese:** Spread a generous layer of cream cheese on each bagel half.
3. **Add Smoked Salmon:** Top with Kirkland Signature Smoked Salmon.
4. **Garnish:** Sprinkle with capers and red onion. Garnish with fresh dill, if desired.
5. **Serve:** Serve immediately.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Add other toppings:** Try adding avocado slices, cucumber, or tomato.
* **Use different cream cheese:** Experiment with different flavored cream cheeses, like chive or vegetable.
* **Add a squeeze of lemon juice:** A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens up the flavors.
* **Make it a sandwich:** Turn it into a sandwich by adding another bagel half on top.
**Recipe 2: Smoked Salmon Dip**
This is a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s perfect for parties or gatherings. It’s easy to make and can be served with crackers, vegetables, or pita bread.
**Ingredients:**
* 8 oz Cream Cheese, softened
* 4 oz Kirkland Signature Smoked Salmon, finely chopped
* 2 tbsp Sour Cream
* 1 tbsp Lemon Juice
* 1 tbsp Fresh Dill, chopped
* 1 tbsp Capers, drained and chopped
* Salt and Pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a medium bowl, combine the cream cheese, smoked salmon, sour cream, lemon juice, dill, and capers.
2. **Mix Well:** Mix until well combined.
3. **Season:** Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. **Chill:** Cover and chill for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. **Serve:** Serve with crackers, vegetables, or pita bread.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Add horseradish:** Add a teaspoon of prepared horseradish for a little kick.
* **Use Greek yogurt:** Substitute Greek yogurt for the sour cream for a healthier option.
* **Add red onion:** Add finely diced red onion for extra flavor and texture.
* **Garnish with smoked salmon:** Garnish the dip with a few slices of smoked salmon before serving.
### 3. Kirkland Signature Mixed Nuts
My dad always has a container of Kirkland Signature Mixed Nuts on his desk. They’re a healthy and satisfying snack that’s perfect for curbing hunger between meals. They’re also great for adding texture and flavor to various dishes.
**Recipe 1: Honey Roasted Nuts**
Take those already delicious mixed nuts to the next level with a touch of honey and a sprinkle of salt. These are perfect for snacking or gifting.
**Ingredients:**
* 3 cups Kirkland Signature Mixed Nuts
* 2 tbsp Honey
* 1 tbsp Water
* 1/2 tsp Salt
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. **Combine Honey and Water:** In a small saucepan, combine the honey and water. Heat over low heat until the honey is dissolved.
3. **Toss Nuts:** In a large bowl, toss the nuts with the honey mixture until evenly coated.
4. **Spread on Baking Sheet:** Spread the nuts in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. **Bake:** Bake for 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the nuts are lightly toasted and the honey is caramelized.
6. **Cool:** Remove from the oven and sprinkle with salt. Let cool completely before storing in an airtight container.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Add spices:** Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cayenne pepper to the honey mixture for extra flavor.
* **Use maple syrup:** Substitute maple syrup for the honey.
* **Add dried fruit:** Add dried cranberries or raisins to the nuts after they have cooled.
* **Make a trail mix:** Combine the honey roasted nuts with other snacks like pretzels, chocolate chips, or granola to create a custom trail mix.
**Recipe 2: Nut-Crusted Chicken**
This recipe adds a crunchy and flavorful twist to traditional baked chicken. The Kirkland Signature Mixed Nuts provide a delicious coating that’s both healthy and satisfying.
**Ingredients:**
* 4 Kirkland Signature Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts
* 1 cup Kirkland Signature Mixed Nuts, finely chopped
* 1/2 cup Breadcrumbs
* 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese, grated
* 1 tsp Dried Italian Herbs
* Salt and Pepper to taste
* 1 Egg, beaten
* 2 tbsp Olive Oil
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. **Prepare Coating:** In a shallow dish, combine the chopped nuts, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper.
3. **Prepare Chicken:** Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Dip each chicken breast in the beaten egg, then dredge in the nut mixture, pressing to adhere.
4. **Bake:** Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until lightly browned.
5. **Transfer to Oven:** Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the nut crust is golden brown.
6. **Rest and Serve:** Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Add spices to the crust:** Experiment with different spices like paprika, garlic powder, or onion powder in the nut crust.
* **Use different nuts:** Use other nuts like almonds, pecans, or walnuts instead of the mixed nuts.
* **Serve with a sauce:** Serve the nut-crusted chicken with a lemon butter sauce, honey mustard sauce, or your favorite dipping sauce.
* **Make it gluten-free:** Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
### 4. Kirkland Signature Olive Oil
A good olive oil is essential for cooking, and my dad swears by Kirkland Signature’s olive oil. It has a rich, fruity flavor that’s perfect for everything from sautéing vegetables to making salad dressings.
**Recipe 1: Simple Garlic and Olive Oil Pasta (Aglio e Olio)**
This is a classic Italian dish that’s incredibly simple to make but packed with flavor. The key is to use high-quality ingredients, like Kirkland Signature Olive Oil.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 lb Spaghetti
* 1/2 cup Kirkland Signature Olive Oil
* 4-6 cloves Garlic, thinly sliced
* 1/4 tsp Red Pepper Flakes (optional)
* Salt and Pepper to taste
* Fresh Parsley, chopped, for garnish
* Parmesan Cheese, grated, for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook Pasta:** Cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. **Sauté Garlic:** While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook until the garlic is lightly golden and fragrant, being careful not to burn it. This usually takes 2-3 minutes.
3. **Add Pasta:** Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat with the garlic and olive oil. Add a little pasta water at a time, tossing constantly, until the sauce is creamy and emulsified.
4. **Season:** Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. **Serve:** Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Add vegetables:** Add sautéed vegetables like broccoli florets, spinach, or mushrooms to the pasta.
* **Add protein:** Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or sausage to the pasta.
* **Use different pasta shapes:** Use other pasta shapes like linguine, fettuccine, or penne.
* **Add lemon juice:** A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens up the flavors.
**Recipe 2: Balsamic Vinaigrette Salad Dressing**
This is a simple and versatile salad dressing that’s perfect for any green salad. Using high-quality olive oil like Kirkland Signature’s makes a big difference in the flavor.
**Ingredients:**
* 1/4 cup Balsamic Vinegar
* 3/4 cup Kirkland Signature Olive Oil
* 1 tbsp Dijon Mustard
* 1 clove Garlic, minced
* 1/2 tsp Honey
* Salt and Pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, honey, salt, and pepper.
2. **Whisk Well:** Whisk until well combined and emulsified.
3. **Store:** Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
4. **Serve:** Drizzle over your favorite salad.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Use different vinegars:** Experiment with different vinegars like red wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar, or white wine vinegar.
* **Add herbs:** Add chopped fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme to the dressing.
* **Add shallots:** Add minced shallots for extra flavor.
* **Adjust sweetness:** Adjust the amount of honey to your liking.
### 5. Kirkland Signature Almonds
Another one of my dad’s favorite snacks! Kirkland Signature Almonds are a great source of healthy fats and protein. They are great for snacking, but also wonderful in recipes.
**Recipe 1: Almond Crusted Fish**
This recipe creates a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional breaded fish. The almonds add a wonderful crunch and nutty flavor.
**Ingredients:**
* 4 Fish fillets (cod, haddock, or tilapia work well)
* 1 cup Kirkland Signature Almonds, finely ground
* 1/4 cup Breadcrumbs (optional, but adds extra crunch)
* 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese, grated
* 1 tbsp Lemon zest
* 1/2 tsp Garlic powder
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 1 Egg, beaten
* 2 tbsp Olive oil
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. **Prepare Almond Crust:** In a shallow dish, combine the ground almonds, breadcrumbs (if using), Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. **Prepare Fish:** Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels. Dip each fillet in the beaten egg, then dredge in the almond mixture, pressing to adhere.
4. **Bake:** Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the fish fillets and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until lightly browned.
5. **Transfer to Oven:** Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and the almond crust is golden brown.
6. **Serve:** Serve immediately with your favorite sides.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Add herbs to the crust:** Experiment with different herbs like dill, parsley, or thyme in the almond crust.
* **Use different nuts:** Use other nuts like walnuts or pecans instead of almonds.
* **Serve with a sauce:** Serve the almond-crusted fish with a tartar sauce, lemon butter sauce, or a simple squeeze of lemon juice.
* **Make it gluten-free:** Omit the breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
**Recipe 2: Homemade Almond Milk**
Making your own almond milk is surprisingly easy and tastes so much better than store-bought. Plus, you control the ingredients!
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup Kirkland Signature Almonds
* 4 cups Water, filtered
* 1 tbsp Maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
* 1/4 tsp Vanilla extract (optional, for flavor)
* Pinch of salt
**Instructions:**
1. **Soak Almonds:** Soak the almonds in water for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This softens the almonds and makes them easier to blend.
2. **Drain and Rinse:** Drain the almonds and rinse them thoroughly.
3. **Blend:** Place the soaked almonds, filtered water, maple syrup (if using), vanilla extract (if using), and salt in a high-speed blender.
4. **Blend Until Smooth:** Blend on high speed for 1-2 minutes, or until the mixture is completely smooth. You may need to scrape down the sides of the blender a few times.
5. **Strain:** Place a nut milk bag or several layers of cheesecloth over a large bowl. Pour the almond milk mixture into the bag and strain, squeezing out as much liquid as possible.
6. **Store:** Store the almond milk in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Add dates for sweetness:** Substitute Medjool dates for maple syrup for a more natural sweetness.
* **Add cinnamon or nutmeg:** Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor.
* **Roast the almonds:** Roasting the almonds before soaking them will give the almond milk a richer, nuttier flavor.
* **Use the almond pulp:** Don’t throw away the almond pulp! You can use it in baked goods, smoothies, or even as a facial scrub.
## Final Thoughts
These are just a few of the many delicious recipes you can create using Kirkland Signature products. By stocking your pantry with these high-quality ingredients, you’ll be well on your way to creating dad-approved meals that everyone will love. So, next time you’re at Costco, be sure to grab some of these staples and get cooking! And who knows, maybe you’ll even discover a new Kirkland Signature favorite of your own!
Happy cooking, and happy dad-pleasing!