Author: Kevin Thompson

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10 Creative Uses For Apple Butter

Apple butter is a highly concentrated, caramelized form of applesauce that offers a much deeper, spice-forward flavor. While it’s famous as a toast topping, its thick texture and natural sweetness make it a versatile “secret ingredient” in both sweet and savory cooking.

Here are 10 creative ways to use it:

1. Glaze for Roasted Meats

Apple butter acts as a fantastic glaze for pork chops, roast chicken, or ham. Its sugar content allows it to caramelize beautifully under high heat. Mix it with a little Dijon mustard or apple cider vinegar to balance the sweetness.

2. Elevated Grilled Cheese

Spread a layer of apple butter inside a grilled cheese sandwich before griddling. It pairs exceptionally well with sharp cheddar, brie, or gouda. Add a few slices of ham or turkey for a sweet and savory panini.

3. Mix-in for Oatmeal or Yogurt

Stir a tablespoon into hot oatmeal or Greek yogurt. It provides a “built-in” flavor profile of cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg, meaning you don’t need to add extra sweeteners or spices.

4. Better-Than-Jam PB&J

Swap out your standard grape or strawberry jelly for apple butter. The concentrated apple flavor creates a more sophisticated peanut butter sandwich that tastes almost like a taffy apple.

5. Charcuterie Board Complement

Use apple butter as a condiment on a cheese or grazing board. It is the perfect bridge between salty cured meats (like prosciutto) and creamy cheeses.

6. Secret Baking Ingredient

Substitute half the oil or applesauce in recipes for muffins, banana bread, or spice cakes with apple butter. It adds intense moisture and a rich, dark autumnal color to the crumb.

7. Apple Butter Cinnamon Rolls

Instead of the traditional butter and cinnamon-sugar filling, spread a thick layer of apple butter over your cinnamon roll dough before rolling it up. It creates a gooey, “apple pie” interior.

8. BBQ Sauce Booster

Stir a few spoonfuls into your favorite BBQ sauce. It adds thickness and a fruity depth of flavor that is particularly delicious on ribs or pulled pork.

9. Fall-Themed Cocktails

Whisk a teaspoon of apple butter into a Bourbon Old Fashioned or a Moscow Mule for an instant seasonal twist. It adds body and a warm, spiced aroma to the drink.

10. Salad Vinaigrette

Whisk apple butter with olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and a touch of salt to create a creamy fruit vinaigrette. It is excellent over a spinach salad with toasted pecans and goat cheese.

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Apple Butter Glazed Pork Chops

Apple Butter Glazed Pork Chops

This recipe is the perfect balance of savory and sweet. The deep, spiced notes of the apple butter pair beautifully with the saltiness of the pork, while a touch of vinegar and mustard cuts through the richness to keep things bright.

  • Prep time: 10 minutes

  • Cook time: 15 minutes

  • Servings: 2–4

Ingredients

The Pork:

  • 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)

  • 1 tbsp olive oil or butter

  • Salt and black pepper to taste

  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder

  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for a hint of wood-fire flavor)

The Apple Butter Glaze:

  • 1/2 cup apple butter (smooth, spiced variety)

  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar (adds necessary acidity)

  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard

  • 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (if you want it extra tacky/sweet)

  • 1 tsp fresh rosemary or sage, finely chopped

  • A pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for a tiny kick)

Continue reading Apple Butter Glazed Pork Chops

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8 Creative Uses for Pear Relish

8 Creative Uses for Pear Relish (Sweet & Savory Recipe Ideas)

Pear relish is a versatile, flavor-packed condiment that brings together sweetness, tang, and subtle savory notes. While it’s often served as a side, pear relish can do so much more. From glazing meats to elevating sandwiches and cheese boards, this underrated pantry staple deserves a starring role in your kitchen.

If you’re wondering what to do with pear relish, here are 8 creative uses for pear relish that will transform everyday meals into something special.

1. Pear Relish Glaze for Pork, Ham, or Chicken

Using pear relish as a glaze is one of the easiest ways to enhance grilled or roasted meats. Warm it slightly and brush it over pork chops, baked ham, or roasted chicken during the final minutes of cooking. The natural sugars caramelize while the acidity balances rich flavors.

Best for: Pork tenderloin, smoked ham, grilled chicken thighs

2. Sandwich & Burger Spread with Pear Relish

Replace traditional pickles or condiments with pear relish to add a sweet-tangy contrast. It pairs beautifully with smoky and savory proteins.

Great on: Pulled pork sandwiches, turkey burgers, grilled chicken sandwiches
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3. Pear Relish for Cheese Boards & Charcuterie

Pear relish pairs exceptionally well with cheese, making it a standout addition to charcuterie boards. Serve it alongside brie, goat cheese, sharp cheddar, or blue cheese.

Why it works: Sweet fruit balances salty and creamy cheeses

4. Topping for Roasted Vegetables

Roasted vegetables get an instant flavor boost with pear relish. Toss or top roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, sweet potatoes, or squash with a spoonful just before serving.

Tip: Finish with olive oil or flaky sea salt

5. Sweet & Savory Breakfast Ideas Using Pear Relish

Pear relish isn’t just for dinner—it works beautifully at breakfast. Serve it with biscuits, breakfast sausage, or as a topping for savory breakfast sandwiches.

Unexpected favorite: Toasted English muffin with cream cheese and pear relish

6. Pear Relish Salad Dressing & Vinaigrette

Blend pear relish with olive oil, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar to create a homemade pear relish vinaigrette. It’s perfect for spinach salads, mixed greens, or grain bowls.

Pairs well with: Nuts, dried fruit, feta or goat cheese

7. Pear Relish with Seafood

Pear relish adds subtle sweetness to seafood dishes. Brush it onto grilled shrimp, pan-seared salmon, or scallops for a balanced, sweet-savory finish.

Flavor upgrade: Add red pepper flakes or fresh ginger

8. Southern-Style Dishes with Pear Relish

Pear relish shines alongside classic Southern comfort foods. Serve it with fried chicken, pork tenderloin, meatloaf, or black-eyed peas for a nostalgic yet modern twist.

Think: A fruity alternative to chow-chow or pepper relish

Why Pear Relish Belongs in Your Pantry

Pear relish is more than a side—it’s a multi-purpose condiment that enhances everything from meats and vegetables to cheese boards and breakfasts. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or elevating weeknight meals, pear relish delivers big flavor with minimal effort.

If you’ve been searching for unique pear relish recipes or new ways to use pear relish, these ideas are the perfect place to start.

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Lemon Pepper Chicken with Garlic Butter Rice & Roasted Asparagus

Weeknight Win: Lemon Pepper Chicken with Garlic Butter Rice & Roasted Asparagus

Life gets busy, but that doesn’t mean dinner has to be bland or complicated. If you’re looking for a meal that’s bursting with flavor, surprisingly easy to make, and looks impressive on the plate, you’ve come to the right place! Today, we’re sharing our ultimate Lemon Pepper Chicken served with fluffy Garlic Butter Rice and crisp Roasted Asparagus. It’s a harmonious meal where every component shines, yet comes together effortlessly.

Let’s dive into making this delicious spread!

The Star of the Show: Zesty Lemon Pepper Chicken

Forget the pre-made stuff – making your own lemon pepper chicken from scratch is a game-changer. The fresh lemon zest and juice elevate the flavor, creating a bright and savory chicken that’s perfectly golden and tender.

What You’ll Need:

  • 1.5 lbs chicken breast, sliced into thin cutlets or pounded flat

  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

  • 1.5 tbsp lemon pepper seasoning

  • 1 large fresh lemon (zest and juice)

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 2 tbsp butter

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • 1/4 cup chicken broth

  • Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make It:

  1. Prep: Pat chicken dry. Slice or pound chicken to an even 1/2-inch thickness.

  2. Dredge: In a shallow bowl, combine flour, lemon pepper seasoning, and a pinch of salt. Lightly coat each chicken piece, shaking off excess.

  3. Sear: Heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken 4-5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove to a plate.

  4. Sauce: In the same skillet, add remaining butter and minced garlic. Cook 30 seconds. Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits.

  5. Finish: Stir in lemon zest. Return chicken to the pan for 1 minute to coat. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

The Perfect Partner: Fluffy Garlic Butter Rice

This isn’t just plain rice; it’s a fragrant, buttery, garlic-infused delight that perfectly complements the chicken’s zesty sauce. The secret? Toasting the rice before simmering!

What You’ll Need:

  • 1.5 cups long-grain white rice (Jasmine or Basmati)

  • 2.5 cups chicken broth (low-sodium)

  • 5 cloves garlic, minced

  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided

  • Salt & pepper to taste

  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

How to Make It:

  1. Sauté Garlic: In a medium pot over medium heat, melt 2 tbsp butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

  2. Toast Rice: Add uncooked rice. Stir constantly for 2 minutes to coat and lightly toast.

  3. Simmer: Pour in chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover tightly, and cook for 15 minutes. Do not lift the lid!

  4. Rest & Fluff: Remove from heat and let sit (still covered) for 5-10 minutes.

  5. Finish: Remove lid, add remaining 2 tbsp butter and fresh parsley. Fluff with a fork.

The Vibrant Sidekick: Roasted Asparagus

Quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful, roasted asparagus adds a pop of color and a healthy crunch to complete your meal. A little Parmesan takes it to the next level!

What You’ll Need:

  • 1 bunch asparagus, woody ends trimmed

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder

  • 2 tbsp finely grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

  • Salt & black pepper to taste

  • Lemon wedges, for serving

How to Make It:

  1. Preheat: Set oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

  2. Prep: Lay trimmed asparagus on the baking sheet.

  3. Season: Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat and spread in a single layer.

  4. Roast: Roast for 10-12 minutes, or until tender-crisp.

  5. Finish: If using, sprinkle Parmesan over hot asparagus. Serve with fresh lemon wedges.

Putting It All Together: Your Meal Plan Timing

For a perfectly timed meal where everything hits the table hot:

  1. Start the Garlic Butter Rice first. It takes the longest active cooking time and benefits from resting.

  2. While the rice is simmering and resting, prep and roast the Asparagus.

  3. Finally, cook the Lemon Pepper Chicken while the asparagus is in the oven.

And there you have it! A complete, utterly delicious, and surprisingly simple meal that will impress your family or guests without keeping you in the kitchen all night. Enjoy the bright, fresh flavors and the comforting satisfaction of a home-cooked masterpiece.

Happy cooking!

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