Sarah Brekke’s Kitchen: Delicious Recipes to Inspire Your Cooking

Welcome to Sarah Brekke’s Kitchen, a curated collection of recipes designed to inspire and delight home cooks of all skill levels. Sarah, a passionate food enthusiast and experienced cook, believes that cooking should be an enjoyable and accessible experience. Her recipes focus on fresh, flavorful ingredients and clear, easy-to-follow instructions, ensuring success in the kitchen, whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting your culinary journey.

This blog post features a selection of Sarah’s most popular and well-loved recipes, covering everything from appetizers and main courses to desserts and drinks. Each recipe includes a detailed ingredient list, step-by-step instructions, helpful tips, and variations to personalize the dish to your taste.

## Featured Recipes by Sarah Brekke

### 1. Sarah’s Signature Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken

This recipe is a classic for a reason. It’s simple to prepare, yet yields a juicy, flavorful chicken with crispy skin that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend feast.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds), giblets removed
* 1 lemon, halved
* 4 cloves garlic, minced
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
* 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
* 1/2 teaspoon paprika
* Optional: 1 onion, quartered; 2 carrots, chopped; 2 celery stalks, chopped (for roasting pan)

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Chicken:** Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Rinse the chicken inside and out and pat it dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving crispy skin.
2. **Make the Herb Mixture:** In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix well to create a paste.
3. **Season the Chicken:** Rub the herb mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get under the skin of the breast and thighs. This will infuse the chicken with flavor and help keep it moist.
4. **Stuff the Chicken:** Squeeze the lemon halves over the chicken, then place them inside the cavity. This adds citrusy flavor and helps keep the chicken moist during roasting.
5. **Prepare the Roasting Pan (Optional):** If desired, place quartered onion, chopped carrots, and celery stalks in the bottom of a roasting pan. This will add flavor to the pan drippings and create a delicious gravy.
6. **Roast the Chicken:** Place the chicken in the roasting pan, breast side up. Roast for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh registers 165°F (74°C). The juices should run clear when pierced with a fork.
7. **Baste the Chicken:** During the last 30 minutes of roasting, baste the chicken with the pan drippings every 10 minutes. This will help keep the chicken moist and promote browning.
8. **Rest the Chicken:** Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken.
9. **Carve and Serve:** Carve the chicken and serve with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad.

**Tips and Variations:**

* **For Extra Crispy Skin:** Pat the chicken completely dry before seasoning. You can also use a higher roasting temperature (425°F or 220°C) for the last 15-20 minutes of cooking.
* **Add More Vegetables:** Feel free to add other vegetables to the roasting pan, such as potatoes, sweet potatoes, or Brussels sprouts.
* **Make a Gravy:** Use the pan drippings to make a delicious gravy. Simply whisk the drippings with flour or cornstarch and cook until thickened.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the herb mixture for a little heat.
* **Use Different Herbs:** Experiment with different herbs, such as sage, oregano, or marjoram.

### 2. Sarah’s Creamy Tomato Soup with Grilled Cheese Croutons

This isn’t your average tomato soup! Sarah’s version is rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor. The grilled cheese croutons add a fun and delicious twist.

**Ingredients:**

* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 2 (28-ounce) cans crushed tomatoes
* 4 cups vegetable broth
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 1/2 cup heavy cream
* 4 slices bread
* 2 tablespoons butter, softened
* 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

**Instructions:**

1. **Sauté the Aromatics:** In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. **Add Tomatoes and Broth:** Stir in crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
3. **Blend the Soup:** Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, carefully transfer the soup to a regular blender and blend in batches. Be careful when blending hot liquids.
4. **Stir in Cream:** Stir in heavy cream until well combined. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
5. **Make Grilled Cheese Croutons:** While the soup is simmering, prepare the grilled cheese croutons. Spread softened butter on one side of each slice of bread. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on the other side of two slices of bread. Top with the remaining two slices of bread, butter-side up.
6. **Grill the Croutons:** Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook the grilled cheese sandwiches until golden brown and the cheese is melted, about 2-3 minutes per side.
7. **Cut into Croutons:** Cut the grilled cheese sandwiches into small cubes.
8. **Serve:** Ladle the tomato soup into bowls and top with grilled cheese croutons. Garnish with fresh basil, if desired.

**Tips and Variations:**

* **Add Roasted Red Peppers:** For a deeper flavor, roast 2 red bell peppers and add them to the soup before blending.
* **Use Different Cheese:** Experiment with different cheeses for the grilled cheese croutons, such as Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack.
* **Add a Pinch of Sugar:** If the soup is too acidic, add a pinch of sugar to balance the flavors.
* **Make it Vegan:** Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream for a vegan version. Use vegan cheese for the croutons.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the soup for a little heat.

### 3. Sarah’s No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars

These bars are the perfect treat for chocolate and peanut butter lovers! They’re easy to make, require no baking, and are incredibly delicious.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
* 1/2 cup powdered sugar
* 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
* 1 cup creamy peanut butter
* 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
* 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Crust:** In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, powdered sugar, and melted butter. Mix well until evenly moistened.
2. **Press into Pan:** Press the mixture into the bottom of an 8×8 inch square baking pan lined with parchment paper. This will make it easier to remove the bars later.
3. **Make the Peanut Butter Layer:** In a separate bowl, combine peanut butter and 1/4 cup melted butter (from the chocolate layer ingredients). Mix well until smooth and creamy.
4. **Spread Peanut Butter Layer:** Spread the peanut butter mixture evenly over the graham cracker crust.
5. **Make the Chocolate Layer:** In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and the remaining 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate is melted and smooth.
6. **Spread Chocolate Layer:** Pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter layer and spread evenly.
7. **Chill:** Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the bars are firm.
8. **Cut and Serve:** Once the bars are firm, remove them from the pan using the parchment paper. Cut into squares and serve.

**Tips and Variations:**

* **Use Different Chocolate:** Experiment with different types of chocolate, such as milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or white chocolate.
* **Add Nuts:** Add chopped peanuts, walnuts, or pecans to the peanut butter layer or sprinkle them on top of the chocolate layer.
* **Add Pretzels:** Crush pretzels and mix them into the graham cracker crust for a salty-sweet flavor.
* **Use Different Peanut Butter:** Use chunky peanut butter for added texture.
* **Drizzle with Caramel:** Drizzle the chocolate layer with caramel sauce for an extra indulgent treat.

### 4. Sarah’s Refreshing Watermelon Mint Agua Fresca

This is the perfect drink for a hot summer day! It’s refreshing, hydrating, and incredibly easy to make.

**Ingredients:**

* 4 cups cubed watermelon
* 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
* 1/4 cup lime juice
* 2 tablespoons honey or agave (optional, adjust to taste)
* 4 cups water
* Ice

**Instructions:**

1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a blender, combine cubed watermelon, mint leaves, lime juice, honey or agave (if using), and water.
2. **Blend:** Blend until smooth.
3. **Strain (Optional):** For a smoother agua fresca, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth.
4. **Serve:** Pour the agua fresca over ice and garnish with a sprig of mint or a slice of watermelon.

**Tips and Variations:**

* **Use Different Fruits:** Experiment with different fruits, such as strawberries, pineapple, or mango.
* **Add Ginger:** Add a small piece of fresh ginger for a spicy kick.
* **Use Sparkling Water:** Substitute regular water with sparkling water for a bubbly agua fresca.
* **Make it Boozy:** Add a shot of tequila or rum for an adult beverage.
* **Adjust Sweetness:** Adjust the amount of honey or agave to your liking.

### 5. Sarah’s One-Pan Lemon Herb Baked Salmon with Asparagus

This recipe is a healthy and delicious weeknight meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes. The lemon herb marinade infuses the salmon and asparagus with bright, fresh flavors.

**Ingredients:**

* 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
* 1 pound asparagus, trimmed
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 lemon, sliced
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
* 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

**Instructions:**

1. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. **Prepare Baking Sheet:** Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. **Arrange Asparagus:** Spread asparagus in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
4. **Prepare Salmon:** Place salmon fillets on top of the asparagus.
5. **Make the Marinade:** In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, dill, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
6. **Season Salmon and Asparagus:** Drizzle the marinade over the salmon and asparagus. Top each salmon fillet with a slice of lemon.
7. **Bake:** Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork and the asparagus is tender-crisp.
8. **Serve:** Serve immediately.

**Tips and Variations:**

* **Use Different Vegetables:** Experiment with different vegetables, such as broccoli, green beans, or cherry tomatoes.
* **Add Capers:** Sprinkle capers over the salmon before baking for a salty, briny flavor.
* **Use Different Herbs:** Experiment with different herbs, such as oregano, thyme, or basil.
* **Add Lemon Zest:** Add lemon zest to the marinade for a more intense lemon flavor.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a little heat.

## Tips for Success in Sarah Brekke’s Kitchen

Sarah believes that cooking should be a joyful and creative process. Here are some of her top tips for success in the kitchen:

* **Read the Recipe Carefully:** Before you start cooking, read the entire recipe from beginning to end. This will help you understand the steps involved and ensure that you have all the necessary ingredients and equipment.
* **Prepare Your Ingredients:** Before you start cooking, chop vegetables, measure out spices, and prepare any other ingredients that need to be prepped. This is known as *mise en place* and it will make the cooking process much smoother and more efficient.
* **Use Fresh, High-Quality Ingredients:** The quality of your ingredients will have a significant impact on the flavor of your dishes. Whenever possible, use fresh, high-quality ingredients. Visit your local farmers market for seasonal produce.
* **Don’t Be Afraid to Experiment:** Cooking is a form of art, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and ingredients. Try substituting ingredients, adding new spices, or trying a different cooking technique. You might discover a new favorite dish!
* **Taste as You Go:** As you’re cooking, taste your food frequently and adjust the seasonings as needed. This will help you ensure that your dishes are perfectly balanced and flavorful.
* **Have Fun!** Cooking should be an enjoyable experience. Relax, put on some music, and have fun in the kitchen!

## Sarah Brekke’s Culinary Philosophy

Sarah’s culinary philosophy is rooted in simplicity, freshness, and flavor. She believes that anyone can cook delicious meals with the right ingredients and techniques. Her recipes are designed to be accessible and easy to follow, even for novice cooks. Sarah’s goal is to inspire people to cook more often and to enjoy the process of creating delicious and nourishing meals for themselves and their loved ones.

She emphasizes using seasonal ingredients whenever possible, as they are at their peak flavor and nutritional value. She also believes in the importance of cooking from scratch, as it allows you to control the ingredients and create healthier, more flavorful meals.

Sarah’s recipes often feature bold flavors and creative combinations, but they are always balanced and harmonious. She is a master of layering flavors and using herbs and spices to enhance the natural flavors of the ingredients. She also emphasizes the importance of presentation, believing that food should be visually appealing as well as delicious.

## Stay Connected with Sarah Brekke

To stay up-to-date on Sarah’s latest recipes, cooking tips, and culinary adventures, be sure to follow her on social media and subscribe to her newsletter. You can also find more of her recipes on her website.

Sarah is passionate about sharing her love of food with others, and she hopes that her recipes will inspire you to get in the kitchen and start cooking. Happy cooking!

## More Recipes from Sarah Brekke:

* **Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa:** A vibrant and flavorful taco recipe perfect for summer.
* **Roasted Butternut Squash Soup with Coconut Milk:** A creamy and comforting soup for chilly evenings.
* **Lemon Ricotta Pancakes with Blueberry Compote:** A delicious and decadent breakfast treat.
* **Grilled Chicken Salad with Avocado and Bacon:** A hearty and satisfying salad perfect for lunch or dinner.
* **Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars:** Easy to make and perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.

This selection of recipes highlights Sarah Brekke’s commitment to delicious, accessible cooking. Enjoy exploring these culinary creations!