When it comes to cooking, having a reliable go-to recipe can make all the difference. And what’s better than having a collection of tried-and-true favorites to fall back on? For those who love to cook and experiment with new flavors, Silvana has got you covered. With her arsenal of mouth-watering recipes, you’ll never be stuck for ideas again. From sweet treats like Fresh Strawberry Shortcake and Decadent Chocolate Mousse, to savory dishes like Spicy Honey Glazed Chicken and Hearty Minestrone Soup, Silvana’s repertoire is full of crowd-pleasers that are sure to impress.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at 18 of Silvana’s most popular recipes, each one carefully crafted to satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and comforting or innovative and bold, there’s something on this list for everyone.
Silvana’s Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies
Get ready to satisfy your cookie cravings with this tried-and-true recipe for classic chocolate chip cookies, a staple favorite from Silvana’s kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients (flour mixture) until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
6. Stir in chocolate chips.
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches of space between each cookie.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Silvana’s Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Elevate your side dish game with this rich and creamy garlic mashed potatoes recipe, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large Russet potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Place the chopped potatoes in a large pot and add enough cold water to cover them. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
2. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the minced garlic, softened butter, salt, and pepper. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or a fork until they’re smooth and creamy.
3. Gradually add the heavy cream, stirring until the potatoes absorb most of it. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Silvana’s Spicy Honey Glazed Chicken
Sweet and spicy flavors come together in this mouthwatering glazed chicken recipe. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp Sriracha sauce
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, Sriracha sauce, and garlic powder.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush the glaze evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Silvana’s Fresh Strawberry Shortcake
Savor the sweet taste of summer with this classic dessert featuring fresh strawberries, creamy whipped cream, and tender biscuits.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy whipping cream
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups sliced strawberries
– 1 cup biscuit or shortcake rounds (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon confectioners’ sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Whip heavy cream and granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
3. Split biscuits in half horizontally.
4. Arrange sliced strawberries on top of biscuit halves.
5. Top with whipped cream, spreading evenly.
6. Sprinkle confectioners’ sugar over the shortcake.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (includes baking time for biscuits)
Silvana’s Rich Beef Bourguignon
This classic French dish is a hearty and flavorful stew that’s perfect for a special occasion or cozy night in. Silvana’s Rich Beef Bourguignon recipe is a rich and indulgent take on the traditional, featuring tender beef short ribs cooked to perfection in a rich red wine broth.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef short ribs
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season the short ribs with salt, pepper, and paprika.
3. Heat the butter in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the short ribs on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, and thyme to the pot. Stir to combine.
6. Return the short ribs to the pot and bring to a simmer.
7. Transfer the pot to the preheated oven and braise for 2 1/2 hours, or until the meat is tender.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 1/2 hours
Silvana’s Fluffy Buttermilk Pancakes
Start your day off right with Silvana’s Fluffy Buttermilk Pancakes, a breakfast classic that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract.
3. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Pour in the buttermilk and stir until smooth.
5. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
7. Flip pancakes and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Silvana’s Tangy Lemon Bars
Brighten up your day with these sweet and tangy lemon bars from Silvana’s! A perfect blend of citrusy freshness and buttery goodness, these bars are sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, and confectioners’ sugar.
3. Add softened butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Press the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
5. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until lightly golden.
6. While the crust is baking, prepare the filling: whisk together eggs, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
7. Pour the filling over the warm crust and bake for an additional 15-18 minutes or until the filling is set.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Silvana’s Hearty Minestrone Soup
This comforting Italian-inspired soup is a staple of Silvana’s kitchen, packed with vegetables, beans, and pasta for a satisfying meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or as a nutritious lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup small pasta shapes (e.g., elbow macaroni, ditalini)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until tender, about 8 minutes.
2. Add diced tomatoes, kidney beans, pasta, vegetable broth, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the pasta is al dente.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Silvana’s Crispy Baked Parmesan Zucchini
Zucchini takes center stage in this simple yet impressive side dish, crispy on the outside and tender within. Silvana’s Crispy Baked Parmesan Zucchini is a perfect accompaniment to your favorite pasta dishes or as a standalone snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice the zucchinis into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
3. In a shallow dish, mix together Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs.
4. Dip each zucchini slice into the cheese mixture, coating both sides evenly.
5. Place the coated zucchini slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt to taste.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Silvana’s Decadent Chocolate Mousse
Rich, creamy chocolate mousse that’s sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz high-quality dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 large egg whites
– 2 tbsp granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
2. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
3. In another bowl, beat the egg whites and sugar until stiff and glossy. Fold into the melted chocolate until well combined.
4. Fold the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture until no white streaks remain.
5. Stir in vanilla extract.
6. Pour into individual serving cups or a large serving dish. Chill for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a chilled dessert.
Silvana’s Savory Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken
This recipe combines the flavors of crispy chicken, creamy spinach, and tangy feta for a satisfying and flavorful dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, feta, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket. Stuff each breast with the spinach-feta mixture.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed chicken and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Silvana’s Refreshing Cucumber Salad
A light and revitalizing salad perfect for hot summer days. This simple recipe highlights the natural sweetness of cucumbers, paired with a tangy yogurt dressing and fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 medium-sized cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cucumber slices and yogurt mixture (whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, salt, and pepper).
2. Stir in chopped fresh dill and scallions.
3. Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve chilled, garnished with additional dill if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes of prep time.
Silvana’s Homemade Cinnamon Rolls
Warm up with a sweet treat! This classic recipe yields soft, gooey, and utterly delicious cinnamon rolls that will become your new favorite breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup cinnamon sugar (see note)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and 1 teaspoon sugar. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. Add flour, salt, and melted butter to the mixture. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10-12 minutes until smooth.
4. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch (6 mm).
5. Sprinkle cinnamon sugar evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
6. Roll up the dough tightly and cut into 12 equal pieces.
7. Place rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each roll.
8. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 18-20 minutes until golden brown.
Note: To make cinnamon sugar, mix equal parts granulated sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl.
Silvana’s Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta
A classic Italian-inspired dish that combines the flavors of fresh tomatoes, basil, and creamy goodness with al dente pasta. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as spaghetti or fettuccine)
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes until they release their juices and start to break down.
4. Stir in chopped basil leaves and heavy cream. Bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Combine cooked pasta with tomato-basil sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Silvana’s Spicy Shrimp Tacos
Elevate your taco game with this bold and flavorful recipe that combines succulent shrimp, spicy chipotle peppers, and tangy lime. Perfect for a quick dinner or a fiesta-inspired gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: diced avocado, sour cream, cilantro, sliced radishes
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a medium skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp, onion, garlic, chipotle peppers, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the shrimp is pink and cooked through.
3. Stir in lime juice and cook for an additional minute.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by placing shrimp mixture onto tortillas, and top with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Silvana’s Moist Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Moist, flavorful carrot cake paired with a tangy cream cheese frosting – a perfect combination for any occasion.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup grated carrots
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups powdered sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine butter, carrots, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until combined.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients; stir until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Let cakes cool completely in pans before frosting.
Frosting:
1. Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add vanilla extract.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until combined.
Silvana’s Cheesy Garlic Bread
Get ready for a mouthwatering twist on classic garlic bread! This recipe combines the richness of butter, parmesan cheese, and roasted garlic to create an irresistible side dish or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 baguette
– 2 cloves of garlic, peeled and minced
– 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Slice the baguette into 1-inch thick pieces.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic and softened butter until well combined.
4. Spread the garlic-butter mixture evenly onto each bread piece, making sure to get all the way to the edges.
5. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the garlic butter.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Silvana’s Perfectly Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Roasting brings out the natural sweetness in Brussels sprouts, making them a delicious and healthy side dish. This recipe is a simple yet impressive way to prepare these nutritious veggies.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
– 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until they are evenly coated.
3. Spread the sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized, stirring occasionally.
5. Remove from the oven when done and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a culinary journey with Silvana’s delicious recipes! This collection of 18 mouth-watering dishes is perfect for any occasion. From classic comfort food like chocolate chip cookies and creamy garlic mashed potatoes, to international flavors like spicy honey glazed chicken and spicy shrimp tacos, there’s something for everyone. Sweet treats include fresh strawberry shortcake and decadent chocolate mousse, while savory options include rich beef bourguignon and cheesy garlic bread. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a special celebration dish, Silvana has got you covered.
