Easy Recipes For Your Self-Catering Holiday

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Whether you’re planning a relaxing getaway or an adventure-packed vacation, a self-catering holiday offers the flexibility and freedom to create your own dining experiences. To make the most of your time, here are some simple yet delicious recipes that are perfect for the whole family and can be easily prepared in the modern, well-equipped kitchens of Squirrel Lettings holiday cottages.

Breakfast of Champions

Scrambled Eggs with Smoked Salmon and Avocado

This classic breakfast is not only easy to make but also packed with flavor and nutrients. The creamy scrambled eggs provide a satisfying base, while the smoked salmon adds a rich, smoky flavor and the avocado contributes healthy fats and a creamy texture.

Ingredients:

• 4 large eggs
• 1/4 cup milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 ounces smoked salmon, sliced
• 1 avocado, sliced

Instructions:

1. Whisk the eggs: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook the eggs: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Pour in the egg mixture and cook, stirring occasionally, until the eggs are set.
3. Assemble the dish: Top the scrambled eggs with smoked salmon and avocado slices.
4. Serve: Enjoy immediately.

Tips:

For a healthier option, use whole-grain toast as a base for the scrambled eggs, smoked salmon, and avocado.

For a richer flavor, add a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche to the scrambled eggs.

To add a touch of spice, sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper over the dish.

Porridge with Berries and Honey

Oatmeal, or porridge as it’s known in many parts of the world, is a healthy and hearty breakfast option that’s easy to prepare and can be customized to your taste. It’s packed with fiber, which can help you feel full and satisfied, and is a good source of vitamins and minerals.

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup oats
• 1 cup milk (or your preferred milk alternative)
• Salt to taste
• Fresh or frozen berries
• Honey or maple syrup

Instructions:

1. Combine the ingredients: In a small saucepan, combine the oats, milk, and a pinch of salt.
2. Cook the porridge: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 3-5 minutes, or until the oats are tender.
3. Serve: Top with fresh or frozen berries and a drizzle of honey or maple syrup.

Tips:

Make it ahead: Cook a large batch of porridge and store it in the refrigerator for a quick and easy breakfast throughout the week.

For a creamier texture, add a spoonful of Greek yogurt to your porridge.

To add a boost of protein, top with a handful of nuts or seeds.

For a savory option, try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg.

Quick and Easy Lunches

Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

Grilled cheese sandwiches are a beloved childhood favorite that’s perfect for a quick and easy lunch. The combination of melted cheese, toasted bread, and your favorite fillings is sure to satisfy your cravings.

Ingredients:

• 2 slices of bread
• 2 slices of cheese (use your favorite type)
• Butter
• Optional fillings: bacon, tomato, avocado, or other vegetables

Instructions:

1. Butter the bread: Butter one side of each slice of bread.
2. Add the cheese: Place a slice of cheese on the buttered side of one slice of bread.
3. Add fillings (optional): If desired, add your favorite fillings to the cheese.
4. Close the sandwich: Top with the remaining slice of bread, buttered side down.
5. Cook the sandwich: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Cook the sandwich until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve: Enjoy immediately.

Tips:

Add a side: Serve your grilled cheese sandwich with a side of soup, salad, or chips.

Experiment with different cheeses: Try cheddar, mozzarella, Swiss, or a combination of cheeses for a unique flavor.

Get creative with fillings: Add your favorite vegetables, meats, or spreads to customize your grilled cheese sandwich.

Use a griddle pan: For a crispy exterior, cook your grilled cheese sandwich on a griddle pan.

Salad with Grilled Chicken or Salmon

This light and refreshing salad is a healthy and delicious option for lunch or dinner. The grilled protein adds a burst of flavor and nutrients, while the fresh vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or salmon fillets
• Your favorite salad greens (e.g., romaine, spinach, arugula)
• Your favorite vegetables (e.g., tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, bell peppers)
• Your favorite salad dressing

Instructions:

1. Grill the protein: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Season the chicken or salmon with salt and pepper. Grill until cooked through and slightly charred. Let cool before slicing.
2. Prepare the salad: In a large bowl, combine your chosen salad greens and vegetables.
3. Assemble the salad: Add the sliced chicken or salmon to the salad.
4. Toss with dressing: Drizzle with your favorite salad dressing and toss to coat.

Tips:

Make it ahead: Prepare the salad ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Add the grilled protein just before serving.

For a vegetarian option, substitute grilled tofu or tempeh for the chicken or salmon.

Experiment with different salad dressings: Try a variety of dressings to find your favorite.

Add a crunch: Top your salad with toasted nuts or seeds for added texture.

Dinnertime Delights

Pasta with Tomato Sauce and Basil

This simple yet delicious Italian dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of tender pasta, flavorful tomato sauce, and fresh basil creates a harmonious and satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, penne, rigatoni)
• 1 jar (28 ounces) marinara sauce or your favorite homemade tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
2. Heat the sauce: In a saucepan, heat the marinara sauce over medium heat. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Combine the ingredients: Add the cooked pasta to the saucepan with the tomato sauce. Toss to coat.
4. Add the basil: Stir in the chopped fresh basil.
5. Serve: Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Tips:

Customize with vegetables: Add your favorite vegetables, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers, for extra flavor and nutrients.

Experiment with different pasta shapes: Try spaghetti, penne, rigatoni, or other shapes to find your favorite.

Make your own tomato sauce: For a more flavorful and homemade experience, try making your own tomato sauce.

Add a protein: For a heartier meal, add cooked chicken, sausage, or meatballs to the pasta.

Chicken Fajitas

Chicken fajitas are a delicious and versatile dish that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family. The grilled chicken strips, combined with fresh tortillas, salsa, guacamole, and your favorite toppings, create a customizable and flavorful meal that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Flour tortillas
• Salsa
• Guacamole
• Your favorite toppings (e.g., shredded cheese, chopped onions, cilantro, sour cream)

Instructions:

1. Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, combine the olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken strips and toss to coat. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 1 hour.
2. Grill the chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken strips until cooked through and slightly charred.
3. Assemble the fajitas: Warm the tortillas on a griddle or skillet. Place a portion of grilled chicken on each tortilla.
4. Add toppings: Top with salsa, guacamole, and your favorite toppings.
5. Serve: Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips:

Make it ahead: Grill the chicken in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Warm up the tortillas and assemble the fajitas just before serving.

Make it vegetarian: Substitute grilled tofu or tempeh for the chicken.

Experiment with different flavors: Try adding other spices or seasonings to your marinade, such as smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, or lime juice.

Baked Salmon with Roasted Vegetables

This healthy and delicious meal is a great option for a weeknight dinner. The salmon is baked to perfection, while the roasted vegetables add flavor and nutrients.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound salmon fillets
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 pound mixed vegetables (e.g., broccoli, carrots, Brussels sprouts)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the salmon: Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and season with thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Prepare the vegetables: Toss the mixed vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Bake: Place the baking sheet with the salmon and vegetables in the preheated oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flaky.
5. Serve: Serve the baked salmon with the roasted vegetables.

Tips:

Serve with a side: Enjoy this dish with a side of rice, quinoa, or a salad.

Choose your favorite vegetables: Experiment with different vegetables to find your favorite combination.

Add a sauce: Drizzle the salmon and vegetables with a lemon-dill sauce or a balsamic glaze for extra flavor.

Sweet Treats

Chocolate Chip Cookies

Chocolate chip cookies are a beloved treat that’s always a crowd-pleaser. The combination of chewy, buttery dough and sweet chocolate chips is simply irresistible.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cream the butter and sugars: In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Combine the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Stir in the chocolate chips: Fold in the chocolate chips.
6. Bake the cookies: Drop by rounded tablespoons onto ungreased baking sheets. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Cool and serve: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips:  

Store leftovers: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

For a chewier cookie, underbake the cookies slightly.

For a crispier cookie, bake the cookies for a few minutes longer.

Add-ins: Customize your cookies by adding nuts, chocolate chunks, or other mix-ins.

Fruit Salad with Yogurt

This light and refreshing dessert is the perfect way to end a summer meal. The combination of sweet fruits, creamy Greek yogurt, and a drizzle of honey creates a delicious and healthy treat.

Ingredients:

• Your favorite fruits (e.g., strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, peaches, mangoes)
• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• Honey (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the fruits: Wash and cut the fruits into bite-sized pieces.
2. Combine the ingredients: In a bowl, combine the fruits and Greek yogurt.
3. Sweeten (optional): If desired, drizzle with honey to taste.
4. Serve: Serve immediately.

Tips:

Serve as a snack: This healthy and refreshing dessert is also perfect as a snack between meals.

Experiment with different fruits: Try different combinations of fruits to find your favorite.

Add a crunch: Top your fruit salad with a handful of granola or nuts for added texture.

Make it ahead: Prepare the fruit salad ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator.

With these simple and delicious recipes, you can easily create delicious meals for your family during your self-catering holiday. And with the modern and well-equipped kitchens in Squirrel Lettings holiday cottages, you’ll have everything you need to cook up a feast. Remember to BOOK DIRECT for the best prices and personal touch!

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