Watermelon Jalapeno Margarita

I am not quite sure exactly WHEN I started thinking about making watermelon cocktails?  Originally I thought it would be a great mixer for vodka – but then I started looking online and found that mixing watermelon with tequila seems to be a popular “thing”.  So, off to market I went to purchase a seedless melon.  This turned out DELICIOUS!  Mixing the melon with jalapenos gives the drink a little kick.  It’s so refreshing and tastes so fresh.  Love this drink A LOT!  I think you will too! 

Ingredients:

1 Seedless Watermelon

2 – 3 Tablespoons of sugar (depending upon the sweetness of the melon you may need more or less.  I ended up not needing to add any sugar at all)

2 jalapenos

6 – 8 Tablespoons lime juice

Salt & Chili Powder (for rimming the glasses)

Tequila & Triple Sec

Directions:

In a blender puree the watermelon, sugar if you’re using any, and 1 jalapeno.  Puree until smooth; pour through a fine sieve to remove the solids.  Place in a pitcher along with the lime juice.

Slice the remaining jalapeno into small circles.  Add to the watermelon juice.  Stir well to combine. Put into the fridge for at least 2 hours.  The longer it is allowed to sit, the more “kick” the jalapeno gives to the mix.

When ready to serve combine the salt and chili powder on a plate.  Rim the classes with some lime juice and dip in salt/chili powder combination.  Fill the glasses with ice.  Add desired amount of tequila and half that amount of triple sec.  Fill with the watermelon juice; stir to combine.

Relax and Enjoy! 

Click here for printable recipe.

Lime Cilantro Chicken

I found this recipe on Pinterest.  I have made a few adjustments and added Red Pepper flakes.  I like to prepare the chicken and marinade in the morning before I go to work.  When I come home the chicken is perfectly marinated and ready for cooking.  Makes for a very quick dinner at the end of a long day.  I like to serve this with my Mexicali Cauliflower Rice or Quinoa.  Very delightful!  The chicken has such a fresh flavor after sitting with the lime juice, garlic and cilantro all day. And, I like to make a gravy out of the marinade which adds to the full and delicious flavor!

Ingredients:

3 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, butterflied and cut in half to make thinner pieces

2 Tablespoons lime juice

3 Tablespoons olive oil

½ cup fresh Cilantro, chopped 

4 cloves garlic, minced or grated

2 teaspoons chili powder

Pinch of Red Pepper Flakes

Salt & pepper to taste

Directions:

Place all ingredients into a gallon size bag or large container/bowl. Mix well, rubbing the spices into the chicken. Store in refrigerator for several hours to marinate.  I like to prepare in the morning before I go to work.

Drizzle Olive Oil in a skillet – or spray a non-stick pan.  Heat over medium-high heat.

Remove chicken from marinade; shake excess off chicken.  Do not discard the marinade. Fry in pan for about five minutes; turn and cook an additional five minutes.

Place chicken on a plate; keep warm.  Add the marinade to the pan; cook until boiling.  Reduce heat and continue to cook until liquid reduces.  Basically, you’re making a gravy out of the marinade. 

Plate the chicken and drizzle a bit of the “gravy” over each breast.

Click here for printable recipe.