How To Make Panera Strawberry Banana Smoothie At Home
This Strawberry Banana Smoothie tastes like a Panera Smoothie! This recipe is perfect for those chaotic mornings when you need something quick and portable for “on-the-go” breakfast. Rather than skip breakfast, grab a couple of yummy breakfast cookies, or better yet, whip up a smoothie like this Panera Copycat.
Smoothies are a great way to get your daily servings of fruits and veggies while also being a busy bee. From leaving for work extra early to prepare for that presentation, to dropping the kids off at school, to hitting up the gym at 5 am before you tackle your day, let’s face it, sitting down and enjoying breakfast just isn’t realistic. But when you do have time, this recipe can be enjoyed when you can mindfully savor every lick, sip, and slurp.
How To Make a Panera Bread Strawberry Banana Smoothie Recipe
Making your very own Panera Strawberry Banana Smoothie at home is easy!
Let’s start with the ingredients.
Fruit: Strawberries & Bananas
For this recipe, I chose frozen strawberries and bananas. You could also use strawberry puree, or fresh strawberries and bananas in this recipe. I prefer to use frozen fruit so I do not need any ice.
Make this a Panera Strawberry Smoothie by omitting the bananas or a Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie by omitting the strawberries and adding a spoonful of peanut butter! Note, that the nutrition facts for your smoothie will change depending on what fruits and ingredients you use.
Liquid: Milk of Choice
My milk of choice is soy milk for its flavor and nutritional value. You could use almond milk, oat milk, coconut milk, or cow’s milk in this fruit smoothie recipe.
Sweetness: Dates
This sticky & sweet dried fruit is my go-to sweet addition to my smoothies. At times, I might even use date syrup. Some other sweet choices include maple syrup, honey, or (my gosh) refined sugar. My sweetener choice is based on the flavor profile of the smoothie but also my mood!
Example: I might use maple syrup in a banana oatmeal smoothie to give it an extra “breakfasty” taste.
Fat: Nut Butter or Fat Plain Greek Yogurt
Fat is essential for my creamy smoothies. Have you ever made a smoothie and it was all foam?! I have, and there is nothing I despise more (being a little dramatic here but it really is disappointing).
There are a few explanations for the foam (which I will definitely be diving into in a future blog post) but I stick to one rule to prevent foam and ensure creaminess, always add fat. Insoluble fiber does not dissolve in water and is often the culprit of foaminess. Insoluble fiber can be found in many fruits and vegetables that we put in our smoothies.
Adding fat is one of my best tips to prevent the fiber from foaming up! But really, I also love the taste and satiation the added fat brings!
Some other fats that are excellent in a healthy smoothie include:
Whole milk, which also functions as a liquid
Avocado, which is especially delicious when combined with blueberries
Full-fat plain Greek yogurt
Nuts and/or seed butter. One of my favorite nut/seed butter to use is Almond. I just love the taste of almond butter in a smoothie, especially when paired with almond extract. It is the perfect subtle flavor that has the taster going, hmmmmm yummy, that’s so good, what is that flavor I am tasting?!
Protein Powder or Collagen Powder Add Ins
I like to add protein powder to most of my smoothies. The added protein keeps me satisfied and helps me meet my protein needs for the day! One of my favorite delicious breakfast hacks is to include at least 30g of protein in my healthy breakfast meal!
To help me keep track of my protein I use the food diary also known as MyFitnessPal exercise tracker (in my opinion the best macro tracking app). It helps me stay on top of the grams of protein I am consuming throughout the week. Plus, it’s free!
More Ingredient Add Ins
More Strawberry Banana Smoothie with Delicious Add-Ins!
Creatine: 3-5g of creatine is ideal for supporting muscle strength and recovery, especially if you’re on a fitness journey. This flavorless addition blends easily without altering the smoothie’s creamy texture.
Chia & Flax Seed Mix: Combining chia and flax seeds provides a powerful mix of omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and protein. Together, they support heart and digestive health, help keep you full longer, and add a gentle nutty flavor that complements the smoothie’s sweetness. Just a tablespoon or two is all you need!
Apple Juice or Fruit Juice: A splash of apple juice or any preferred fruit juice adds a natural sweetener, intensifying the fruity flavors.
Coconut Yogurt: For a creamy smoothie with a tropical twist, mix in a spoonful of coconut yogurt.
Frozen Cauliflower: Adding a handful of frozen cauliflower florets or riced cauliflower is a clever way to thicken your smoothie without extra sugar or calories. Cauliflower is packed with vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, making your smoothie creamy, nutrient-dense, and you still have a super delicious smoothie.
Honey or Maple Syrup: A drizzle of honey or maple syrup can add subtle natural sweetness without overpowering the fruit flavors.
Step By Step Instructions
Step 1: Add All Ingredients
Place all your measured ingredients into a blender. This could include fruits, liquids, yogurt, and any additional flavorings or supplements.
Step 2: Blend the Ingredients
Secure the blender lid and blend until the mixture is smooth. Check for any unblended chunks and blend again if needed.
Step 3: Taste and Adjust
Give your smoothie a taste and adjust based on your preferences:
Too thick? Add a bit more soy milk (or your preferred liquid).
Too thin? Add more yogurt or ice to thicken it up.
Not sweet enough? Add a date or a small amount of sweetener.
Serving Suggestions
Take your smoothie to the next level with these creative serving ideas:
Classic Glass: Serve in a chilled glass with a straw or fruit garnish.
Smoothie Bowl: Pour into a bowl and top with granola, fruit, or seeds.
On-the-Go: Pour into a thermos for an easy, portable snack.
Layered: Feeling extra? Combine two smoothie flavors for a fun layered effect.
Frozen Popsicles: Perfect for leftovers! Pour into popsicle molds and freeze for a cool treat.
Speaking of Leftovers
In addition to making Frozen Popsicles, you can also try these other options:
Refrigerate: Store in the fridge for a quick snack later. I prefer smoothies fresh, but it’s a good option for short-term storage!
Freeze in Ice Cube Trays: Pour into ice cube trays and freeze. Later, blend the smoothie cubes with milk and fresh fruit for an easy, ready-to-go smoothie.
3pitted medjool dates If not pitted, remove the pit in advance
2cupunsweetened soy milk
5tbspprotein powderunflavored, strawberry, or vanilla
¼cupfull-fat plain Greek yogurt
Instructions
Step 1: Add All Ingredients
Place all your measured ingredients into a blender. This could include fruits, liquids, yogurt, and any additional flavorings or supplements.
Step 2: Blend the Ingredients
Secure the blender lid and blend until the mixture is smooth. Check for any unblended chunks and blend again if needed.
Step 3: Taste and Adjust
Give your smoothie a taste and adjust based on your preferences:Too thick? Add a bit more soy milk (or your preferred liquid). Too thin? Add more yogurt or ice to thicken it up. Not sweet enough? Add a date or a small amount of sweetener.
Notes
Tip: If you like your smoothie thinner add more soy milk 1 TBSP at a time until your desired consistency. Nutrition facts are estimated based on available ingredient data and preparation. Actual values may vary based on ingredients, measurements, and cooking methods used.For precise nutritional information, consult a registered dietitian or use your preferred nutrition calculator.
Did you grow some epic lemon cucumbers this year and find you have an excess amount? Or perhaps you picked up some lemon cucumbers from the farmers market and are now scratching your head about what to do with them.
Lemon cucumbers make excellent additions to salads, salsas, or sliced over sandwiches. But before I dive into 8 ways to use up your excess lemon cucumbers this summer, let’s cover some frequently asked questions!
FAQ (Ask a Dietitian!)
Some frequently asked questions about lemon cucumbers.
Do Lemon Cucumbers Taste Like Lemons?
No, lemon cucumbers do not taste like lemons. Theey have a mild, refreshing flavor, much like traditional fresh cucumbers.
What is lemon cucumber good for?
Lemon cucumbers are just like any other regular cucumber, like english cucumbers, they are amazing in salads, sandwiches, as a dipper, or pickled
Can you eat raw lemon cucumbers?
Yes, you can eat raw lemon cucumbers. I actually prefer to eat lemon cucumbers raw. That being said, you can also eat lemon cucumbers dehydrated, grilled, or roasted.
Are lemon cucumbers burpless?
Lemon cucumbers are burpless, meaning they are non-bitter and contain very little cucurbitacin. Cucurbitacin is the compound that causes bitterness in cucumbers.
8 Easy Lemon Cucumber Recipe Ideas
Now, here are some easy healthy recipes that you can use with your next batch of lemon cucumbers or any other garden cucumbers you might have on hand.
Lemon Cucumber Salad
Maybe one of the easiest methods of using lemon cucumbers is in a simple salad. Just chop up your lemon cucumbers, add 1, 2, or 3 additional veggies, fruit, or herbs, then dress it up with an easy lemon vinaigrette made with fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and olive oil. Champagne vinegar or any other wine vinegar also makes for an excellent vinaigrette. Check out how I use lemon cucumbers in this recipe, Easy Lemon Cucumber Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette.
Lemon Cucumber Salsa
Use lemon cucumbers like pepper or other cucumber varietal and add it to your salsa and pico de gallos. I love to take some sungold cherry tomatoes from my garden, chop them, and mix them into my lemon cucumber pico de gallo. The colors are like sunshine.
Chopped Lemon Cucumbers in Simple Salads a Grain Bowl
When making a nutritious grain bowl, simply include some chopped lemon cucumbers. I might further spice it up with a little red chili flakes. Check out how you can use lemon cucumbers in this Greens and Ancient Grains Bowl.
Sliced in a Sandwich
Lemon cucumbers are the perfect size to add to a sandwich. Slice the lemon cucumbers in thick rounds and add them to your sandwich. They add a wonderful cucumber crunch. Try a combination of flavors like seeded whole wheat bread, with a spread of pesto, sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, bell peppers, spinach, and oven-roasted turkey breast or baked tofu.
Have a killer glaze or sauce when cool would taste fantastic drizzled over sliced cucumbers? Use that with some lemon cucumbers like this Garlic Sweet Soy Glaze Recipe. Further elevate this simple side with fresh herbs like mint, basil leaves, or cilantro.
Refrigerator Pickle Recipes
These arent your usual pickles, they are refrigerator pickles using lemon cucumabers! Easy Lemon cucumber pickles are a super easy recipe. I love to use white vinegar, white wine vinegar, or apple cider vinegar with my cucumber slices when making pickles. You can easily make quick pickles with water, vinegar, and salt.You can also include ingredients like celery seeds, red onion, fresh dill and a tbsp of mustard seed.
Dehydrated into “chips”
Lemon cucumber chips are innovative, fun, and a healthier alternative to potato chips. However, I do enjoy a little of both, the refreshing cucumber chip alongside a salty and crunchy potato chip with a little cool ranch dip!
Lemon cucumber water offers a light lemon flavor, enhanced by slices of whole lemon, fresh basil, or mint leaves for a refreshingly hydrating twist. Perfect for a flavorful, cooling drink on a hot summer day.
Featured and More Recipes
Lemon cucumber versatility and ability to enhance both taste and aesthetics of recipes make lemon cucumbers an exciting ingredient to explore across a wide range of culinary creations. Happy Cooking!
This Mocha Shake Recipe is the perfect way to cool off on a hot summer day while still getting your coffee fix. It’s quick, easy, and tastes like a fancy coffee drink but with a healthier twist!
The combo of banana, rich mocha, and cocoa powder makes it super creamy and delicious, and it only takes a few minutes to whip up.
In this post, I’ll share why this smoothie is a favorite of mine, what ingredients you’ll need, how to make it, and a little about why I love having smoothies like this almost every day!
Mocha Shake Ingredients
This Mocha Shake is packed with simple, wholesome ingredients, and with the addition of protein powder, it easily doubles as a protein-packed treat. Here’s everything you need:
Soy Milk: I use soy milk for a creamy, plant-based option, but you can swap it with almond, oat, or coconut milk—whatever you prefer!
Frozen Banana: For that perfectly creamy texture, I like to use frozen ripe banana chunks. They also add natural sweetness.
Dates: A couple of dates bring just the right touch of sweetness. If you don’t have dates on hand, maple syrup is a great substitute.
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: This adds a deep, rich chocolate flavor without any added sugar.
Mocha Protein Powder: I love using Earth Fed Muscle’s Magic Beans for an extra boost of protein and that delicious mocha flavor.
Optional Ingredients:
Non-fat yogurt (for even more protein and creaminess)
Vanilla extract
Chia seeds (for added fiber and healthy fats)
Chocolate shavings or chocolate chips (for a little indulgence)
Want more of a coffee kick? You can swap out half of the soy milk for brewed coffee or stir in a spoonful of espresso powder or instant coffee to take it to the next level!
Make This a High Calorie Shake
If you’re looking to increase your calorie intake for weight gain or maintenance, it’s easy to transform this Mocha Shake into a decadent, high-calorie treat.
Here are a few simple ingredients to bump up the calories while still keeping it delicious:
Ice Cream: Add a couple of scoops of your favorite ice cream, such as coffee, or even vanilla for extra richness and calories. My favorite is Tiallamook Chocolate Ice Cream!
Chocolate Syrup: Drizzle in some chocolate syrup for added sweetness and a boost of flavor.
Leftover Coffee or Cold Brew Coffee: Swap out some or all of the milk for leftover coffee or cold brew to enhance the mocha flavor.
Milk: Instead of soy milk, use whole milk or regular milk for a higher calorie base. You can even add a splash of cream for extra richness.
Almond Butter: Stir in a spoonful of almond butter for healthy fats and a nutty flavor.
Whipped Cream: Top it off with a generous dollop of whipped cream to make this shake extra indulgent.
How to Make a Mocha Shake
Making a Mocha Shake is super simple and easy!
Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Add Ingredients
Start by adding your ingredients to a high-speed blender. Begin with the liquids, such as soy milk (or whole milk, regular milk, or any milk of your choice). Next, add your frozen banana chunks, dates (or maple syrup), unsweetened cocoa powder, mocha protein powder, and any optional ingredients like non-fat yogurt, chia seeds, or almond butter.
Step 2: Blend
Blend everything together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. For an extra indulgent twist, you can drizzle in some chocolate sauce while blending for a richer, chocolatey flavor.
Step 3: Serve and Enjoy
Pour your Mocha Shake into a glass and enjoy! If you’re feeling fancy, top it with a swirl of chocolate sauce, a sprinkle of chocolate chips, or even a dollop of whipped cream for a café-style treat.
Quick Cleanup Tip
Rinse your blender immediately after making your smoothie. This simple step prevents the smoothie residue from drying and sticking, making cleanup so much easier and quicker for your next use!
What to Do With Leftovers
Got leftover Mocha Shake? Don’t let it go to waste!
Here’s a fun and easy way to make the most of it:
Freeze It: Pour the leftovers into an ice cube tray and freeze. Once frozen, you can pop those smoothie cubes into your next coffee smoothie for a thicker, frostier texture. Or, blend them up with a bit of milk for an easy homemade ice cream treat! It’s a great way to avoid waste and keep your smoothie game strong.
Why I Drink Protein Smoothies Daily
As a flexitarian dietitian who’s passionate about running, weightlifting, and staying active, protein smoothies have become a key part of my daily routine. When I was training for the Willamette Valley Marathon in Salem, OR, I realized just how important nutrition was for endurance sports. Now, whether I’m gearing up for a race in the Pacific Northwest or focusing on strength in the gym, protein smoothies help me stay fueled and support my fitness goals.
Here are four reasons why protein smoothies are a vital part of my training and nutrition regimen:
Energy
Endurance exercise like marathon training demands a lot of energy, with long runs easily burning 1,000 to 2,000 calories. Protein smoothies provide a quick and efficient way to refuel with carbohydrates, healthy fats, and protein, helping me maintain energy levels and improve performance, whether I’m logging miles or lifting weights.
Recovery
Proper recovery is essential to repair muscles and tissues after intense training sessions. Protein is especially important for muscle recovery and tissue repair. I rely on protein smoothies to meet my daily protein needs and help with muscle recovery after a run or workout, ensuring my body is ready for the next session.
Injury Prevention
Nutrition plays a huge role in injury prevention, especially when it comes to keeping bones, joints, and connective tissues healthy. My protein smoothies are packed with nutrients that help support bone health and tissue strength, reducing the risk of overuse injuries, which are common with both running and weightlifting.
Hydration
Staying hydrated is just as important as getting enough protein and calories. Smoothies are full of hydrating ingredients like frozen fruits, almond milk, and even coconut water, helping to keep my body properly hydrated. This helps prevent cramping, maintain fluid balance, and support overall health during long workouts.
Incorporating protein smoothies into my routine helps me hit my nutrition targets, stay strong, and perform at my best—whether on the trails, at the gym, or anywhere in between!
Like This Recipe? Try These Other Delicious Smoothie Recipes?
Below are a few other smoothie recipes you may enjoy!
toasted coconut flakes, almonds and melted chocolate
Instructions
Add the ingredients to a blender, starting with liquids.
Blend until smooth.
Notes
Nutrition information will vary based on ingredients used. This is especially significant with the brand and type of protein powder used. Want more of a coffee kick? You can swap out half of the soy milk for brewed coffee or stir in a spoonful of espresso powder or instant coffee to take it to the next level!
Is It Safe To Eat Tofu Everyday? Tofu Questions Answered & 16 Recipe Ideas
Whether you are eating tofu because you are vegan, vegetarian, pescatarian, flexitarian, or just love tofu, this article is for you.
Now, let’s dive into some tofu questions and then 16 recipe ideas for your next tofu culinary adventure!
Is It Safe To Eat Tofu Everyday?
Tofu contains plant compounds called phytoestrogens (isoflavones) that are similar to the hormone estrogen, but they are much weaker—about 1,000 times weaker than the estrogen made by our bodies. Research shows that eating soy, even daily, does not significantly raise the risk of cancer or change hormone levels in healthy people.
In fact, some studies suggest that isoflavones may have health benefits. In places where people regularly eat soy, like in Asia, soy may help protect against certain diseases. Fears that soy could increase estrogen levels or cause hormone issues aren’t strongly supported by science. Most research has found no negative effects on hormone balance, fertility, or cancer risk from moderate soy intake.
Some research even suggests that isoflavones may have positive effects, particularly for postmenopausal women, as they can mildly mimic estrogen and help alleviate symptoms like hot flashes.
Is Tofu Vegan?
Yes! Tofu is a vegan food and is a popular choice among individuals looking to consume more plant-based protein. It is used in a wide variety of dishes as a meat or dairy substitute.
However, some dishes like Mapo Tofu include animal protein like pork, it is important to check if ordering tofu dishes at restaurants is 100% plant-based if you follow a plant-based diet. It is always important to read the food labels of tofu products to ensure it is 100% plant-based if you follow a vegan diet. While most tofu is vegan-friendly there are some varieties like egg tofu that contain animal products.
What is Tofu Made of?
The primary ingredient in tofu is soybeans. Soy milk is condensed into solid white blocks, a process similar to cheese making. Tofu can be made into various textures including silken, firm, and extra firm.
Where Did Tofu Originate?
Tofu originated in China over 2000 years ago. You can learn a lot more about the theories of tofu’s origin here, on the Tofu Wikipedia page!
Is Tofu Healthy?
Tofu is a highly nutritious food and an excellent source of plant-based protein. As a bonus, tofu has all 9 essential amino acids. Something to note, the nutritional content of tofu can vary depending on the type (i.e. silken, firm, extra firm).
Tofu has many health benefits. Approx. 3.5oz of firm tofu has ~144kcal and ~16g protein ~10g fat and ~3g carbohydrates with ~2g fiber. It is a good source of vitamins and minerals including calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorous, selenium, and B vitamins. Moreover, it is naturally low in sodium, and saturated fat, and is completely free of cholesterol.
16 Tofu Recipe Ideas
01 – Creamy Sauces
Whether it’s a sauce for dipping crackers or veggies, or a sauce for lasagna or pasta, tofu blended or crumbled into a sauce.
Furthermore, the sauce can be customized to suit various cuisines and preferences making it a delicious addition to a wide range of vegan recipes.
02 – Vegan Nuggets
Tofu nuggets are a great way to use your air-fryer. These plant-based nuggests are a delicious, healthy, and plant-based alternative to chicken nuggets.
03 – Tofu Tacos
Shredded tofu is delicious when sautéed and seasoned to your liking. Serve it in a tortilla with your favorite toppings like salsa, guacamole, shredded lettuce, and cheese.
04 – Thick Sweet Smoothies
Enjoy Silken Tofu in a smoothie. Just like with soups, silken tofu blends to create a smooth and creamy texture. It is a nutritional boost while remaining neutral in flavor.
Enjoy tofu sautéed in a stir-fry. Extra-firm and firm tofu’s texture makes for an ideal ingredient to withstand the high heat of stir-frying resulting in a crispy exterior and a tender interior.
Additionally, the tofu absorbs the flavors of the stir-fry sauce and compliments the other ingredients like veggies and rice.
06 – Noodles with Baked Tofu
Make yourself a delectable noodle dish like my Spicy Tahini Noodles or Glass Noodle Salad. Whether hot or cold, topping your noodles with some tofu makes for a hearty and filling component to the dish.
07 – Silken Tofu in Soup
Whether it’s an ingredient in a fragrant miso soup or blended into a soup to make it velvety and smooth, silken tofu can be a versatile ingredient in various soup recipes. It adds creaminess and nutrition.
08 – Tofu Appetizer with Dipping Sauce
Enjoy my Easy Baked Tofu or a deep-fried tofu as an appetizer. Baked tofu is a versatile, plant-based protein. It can be wrapped into a lettuce wrap, served on skewers, or served alone with a simple dipping sauce.
09 – Flavorful Curries
Another excellent way to use any type of tofu is in a curry. Try simmering tofu in a fragrant Thai green curry sauce made with coconut milk, green curry paste, and vegetables. Then, serve it over steamed rice.
10 – Grain Bowl with Tofu
I love a nutritious grain bowl full of veggies for lunch. Bump up the protein by adding some baked, grilled, fried, or sautéed tofu to your lunch creation.
Think thick slices grilled (extra firm tofu) or tofu skewers basted in a marinade for your grilled tofu culinary adventure. The smoky charred flavor is pleasing and creates a crispy exterior while maintaining a tender interior.
12 – Silky Desserts
Silken tofu’s neutral flavor and silky texture make it ideal for making smooth and nutritious desserts. It makes a terrific base for creamy desserts like puddings, mousses, and cheesecakes.
It is a healthier alternative to heavy cream while adding its plant-based protein. Tofu in dessert is like a tofu chocolate mousse. Blend silken tofu with melted chocolate, a sweetener like maple syrup, and a dash of vanilla to make a rich and creamy vegan chocolate mousse.
13 – Pot Pies or Other Casseroles
Tofu can be used as a vegetarian or vegan protein source in pot pies, casseroles, and other baked dishes. It absorbs the flavors well and is a great meat alternative.
14 – Tofu Scramble
Tofu Scrambles can be used in a variety of ways and are commonly used as an egg replacement. Use it in fried rice (like in this Vegan Veggie Fried Rice recipe), spooned over toast with breakfast or as an ingredient in breakfast tacos.
My recipe for Tofu Scramble is a terrific option for breakfast and brunch!
15 – Smoked Tofu in Sandwiches or Wraps
Smoked tofu has a unique and savory flavor. Moreover, the smoked flavor adds depth and richness to sandwiches, wraps, salads, appetizers, grain bowls, and stir-fries.
16 – Dried Tofu
Lastly, Dried tofu added to ramen or other camping meals (just add water!) makes for an easy and delicious plant-based camping or backpacking experience. You can also make ramen at home and throw some dried tofu in with the water for an easy weekday meal. Check out my Easy Vegan Kimchi Ramen recipe!
Final Thoughts and More Recipes!
While I provided many recipe ideas in this article, tofu has many more culinary applications I encourage you to explore. Its mild flavor and ability to absorb different flavors and seasonings make it an excellent choice for both sweet and savory applications.
Like these ideas? Check out these other recipes, they also pair well with a tofu addition!
Roasted Jalapenos: An Easy Recipe for Salsa or Sauce
Check out this super easy and simple roasted jalapeno recipe. It is perfect for making an easy roasted jalapeno hot sauce!
In addition to a delicious hot sauce, Oven-Roasted jalapeños make delicious salsa and other yummy sauces. But don’t stop there, they can be used as a spicy kick in a marinade, a topper for rice or tacos, and even in soup!
I love how the roasted jalapenos add a smoky flavor to whatever dish you add them to.
Why You Will Love Roasted Jalapeno Peppers
I love to make roasted jalapenos for my roasted jalapeno hot sauce recipe. However, they are good for so many more reasons.
Versatility: Perfect in salsas, sauces, dips, or as a topping for burgers, nachos, and more.
Customizable Heat: Control the spice level by removing or keeping the seeds.
Simple to Make: Easy to roast in the oven, grill, or even stovetop.
How to Use Roasted Jalapeño Peppers
Salsas: Add roasted jalapeños to homemade salsa such as jalapeno salsa with roasted garlic cloves, lime juice, and cherry tomatoes, or mix them into a mango habanero salsa for a smoky, spicy kick.
Black Beans Side Dish: Adding oven-roasted jalapenos is a simple way to give black beans extra flavor.
Tacos: Enhance your tacos by adding oven-roasted jalapeños for a spicy flavor
Nachos: Toss roasted jalapeños into oven-baked nachos, either with the tortilla chips and toppings or after for added spice.
Burgers and sandwiches: Add to burgers and sandwiches for a kick
Eggs: Stir into scrambled eggs and omelets for a spicy take on breakfast
Hot Sauces: I love using my food processor to whip up a variety of sauces and salsas featuring oven-roasted jalapeños
Creamy sauces and Dips: Create a spicy cashew green sauce to pair with roasted veggies, baked fish, or tofu for a deliciously vibrant dip.
Tools
Roasting Pan or baking sheet
optional: Parchment paper
Rubber Spatula
Measuring Spoons
Ingredients
Raw Jalapeños: Fresh, firm peppers are best. Keep them whole or halve them, and remove seeds for less heat.
Olive Oil: A light drizzle helps the jalapeños roast evenly and enhances their smoky flavor.
Salt (Optional): Adds seasoning to balance the spice, or customize with other spices like garlic powder or cumin.
Step By Step Instructions
Follow my easy method for making the best-roasted jalapeño peppers.
Step 1: Preheat your oven Set the oven to 425°F (220°C).
Step 2: Prepare the jalapeños Wash and dry the jalapeños. You can either leave them whole or cut them in half lengthwise. Option to remove the seeds and ribs to reduce the spiciness.
Step 3: Toss in oil In a large bowl, drizzle olive oil over the jalapeños and toss to coat evenly. Sprinkle with salt if using.
Step 4: Roast Place the jalapeños on a roasting pan or baking sheet in a single layer, cut side down if halved. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until the skin blisters and the peppers become slightly charred.
How To Store
Once the jalapenos have cooled, place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Flash Freeze (Optional): Spread the cooled jalapeños on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze them for 1-2 hours. This prevents them from sticking together later.
Transfer to Freezer Bags: After freezing, place the jalapeños in a resealable freezer-safe container. Remove as much air as possible. Keep in the freezer for up to 6 months.
Bonus Ways to Make Roasted Jalapeños
Try these alternative methods to make it easy to roast jalapeños no matter what equipment you have on hand!
Grill Method:
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Place whole or halved jalapeños directly on the grill grates. Grill for 5-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the skin blisters and chars.
Stovetop Method:
Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Place whole or halved jalapeños in the dry pan and cook for about 5-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until the skin blackens and the peppers soften.
Air Fryer Method: (My Fave)
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the whole or halved jalapeños in the air fryer basket. Cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking halfway through, until blistered and slightly charred.
Make A Roasted Jalapeno Hot Sauce (No-Recipe Recipe)
Roast a handful of roasted jalapeños (6-8), andkeep seeds if you want extra heat. Toss them in a blender with a couple of garlic cloves, a about 1/2 cup of vinegar (white or apple cider or both!), 1-2 tbsp honey for sweetness, and ~1/2 tsp salt. Add a little water (2-4 tbsp) to get the consistency you like.
Blend those until smooth, adjusting salt and honey to taste. Pour it into a jar, and that’s it! You’ve got a smoky, tangy hot sauce to spice up tacos, eggs, grilled meats, or whatever you like.
This roasted jalapeno hot sauce will be kept in the fridge for up to two weeks!
Wash and dry the jalapeños. You can either leave them whole or cut them in half lengthwise. Option to remove the seeds and ribs to reduce the spiciness.
Step 3: Toss in oil
In a large bowl, drizzle olive oil over the jalapeños and toss to coat evenly. Sprinkle with salt if using.
Step 4: Roast
Place the jalapeños on a roasting pan or baking sheet in a single layer, cut side down if halved. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until the skin blisters and the peppers become slightly charred.
