Enhance your taco night experience with these flavorful recipes from Marci Renee’s collection.
Each dish complements the others, creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal for you and your guests.

Jalapeno Ranch Dressing
If you enjoy the Jalapeno Ranch at Chuy’s, you are going to love Marci’s version! Throw
everything into a food processor or blender, pour it in a mason jar for safe keeping and you
have a quick and tasty dressing or dip recipe! It’s not only perfect with tortilla chips but great on
tex-mex salads as well!
Get the Recipe!

Steak Quesadillas
Indulge in these savory Steak Quesadillas, featuring perfectly seasoned steak, melted cheese,
and sautéed vegetables, all nestled between crispy tortillas. Whether prepared on a Blackstone
griddle or in an air fryer, these quesadillas are both versatile and delicious.
Get the Recipe!

Homemade Guacamole
No taco night is complete without creamy, fresh guacamole. Marci's Homemade Guacamole
recipe combines ripe avocados, zesty lime juice, and a blend of spices to create a dip that's
perfect with tortilla chips or as a topping for your quesadillas.
Get the Recipe!

Mexican Street Corn
Add a burst of flavor with this Mexican Street Corn recipe. Grilled corn on the cob is slathered
with a creamy, tangy sauce and sprinkled with cotija cheese and chili powder, offering a
delightful side dish that pairs wonderfully with any Mexican-inspired meal.
Incorporate these recipes into your next taco night to create a diverse and flavorful spread that
will delight everyone’s taste buds.
Get the Recipe!

Cilantro Lime Rice
This Cilantro Lime Rice is a must-have side dish for taco night. Made with fresh ingredients, it's
super simple to make and adds a zesty, refreshing flavor that complements any taco filling.
Get the Recipe!
I’ve also been making my own Chipotle Bowls at Home! I start by making the Cilantro Lime
Rice. While that’s sitting and doing it’s thing, I’ll make the Mexican Street Corn, a pico de gallo,
bake some diced chicken seasoned with garlic salt and Texas Seasoning. I start building the
bowl by layering the rice, corn, pico, chicken, shredded monterey jack cheese, top with
guacamole and either sour cream or Jalapeno Ranch, depending on whose bowl it is!

Marci Renee is a local momma of 3 who shares family recipes, DIY projects and so much more. Check out her website by clicking here  and be sure to follow her on Facebook by clicking here.

The post Taco Night Recipes appeared first on Cincinnati Family Magazine.

Recipe;

-4 very ripe plantains

-2 tablespoons vegetable oil

-sea salt to taste

-1 lime, cut into wedges

Method (yields 4 appetizer portions);

-Cut the ends off the plantains, and make a slit down one side of the skin. Peel back the skin and cut the plantains in to 3/4 inch slices, on a bias.

-Meanwhile preheat oven to 350 f.

-place the plantains on a cookie sheet and drizzle them with the vegetable oil and sea salt to taste.

-roast the plantains for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown and caramelized.

-serve with lime wedges and top with a small pinch of fresh sea salt.

Getting to Know José Salazar, a Q+A

Cincinnati Family Magazine (CFM): You were born in Colombia and raised in Queens… what was your childhood like compared to that of your son, who was raised here in the Queen City?

Chef José Salazar (CJS): My childhood was amazing. I spent a lot of time outdoors, playing handball, basketball and skateboarding, or just hanging out “on the block”. 

CFM: Did you have a certain comfort food growing up?

CJS: Well, my mom (single mother), was not a great cook and didn’t have a lot of time, so meals were fairly simple. However, when I went to Colombia for the summers, my grandma would make huge, very tasty meals. My favorite comfort food from her was a simple bowl of rice and beans with arepa and avocado.

CFM: Are there any foods that you hated as a kid that you have grown to love as an adult? (We have heard good things about your Brussels sprouts, and we have to admit… we hated Brussels sprouts as a kid and now we can’t get enough!)

CJS: I remember my mom making beef tongue on several occasions and I absolutely hated it. Just the idea of eating it freaked me out. Now I love, love tongue, especially in a taco!

CFM: You left the hustle and bustle of New York and landed a job here in the ‘Nati. Now it seems you’ve set roots here. What makes this city special to you?

CJS: I would have to say the people for sure. I am very appreciative of how kind and supportive Cincinnatians are.

CFM: Let’s hear all about the new Salazar location, Mita’s and Safi Wine Bar! Can you tell us about where the Latin and Moroccan inspiration came from and how you settled on the menus? Is there any one item on the menu that people HAVE to try when they come in?

CJS: The Latin inspiration for Mita’s came from my Colombian heritage as well as the diverse Latin cuisines that I was exposed to in NYC. Safi was born out of an amazing trip I took to Morocco in the summer of 2023. I had always dreamt of going and was not disappointed one bit when I finally had the opportunity to go. I adore Morocco and the hospitality they showed me. Salazar will be re-opening later this summer or early fall. We will focus on local and seasonal products that highlight all the deliciousness the Ohio Valley have to offer.

CFM: We love supporting local. When you don’t feel like cooking, do you have a few favorite Cincinnati restaurants that you frequent?

-I can’t say I frequent any restaurants just because of how busy I am. My most memorable meal recently in Cincinnati was Roji. We are so lucky to have chef Hideki and his team doing spectacular sushi. I only wish I could find time to go every week!

CFM: We have read that you enjoy mentoring young chefs! What can kids gain from contributing to what is being cooked? What tips do you have for kids who like cooking (and their parents)?

CJS: I do enjoy mentoring. Food is a good way to learn about history and culture. Making a meal can feel like a journey to a faraway place and I think kids love that. As for the adults, it may be the opposite, where the food reminds us of a time and place in our past which makes us feel nostalgic and happy.

CFM: Congratulations on your upcoming 7th year of sobriety! It truly seems like you are accomplishing so much right now and it is absolutely inspiring. Do you think having clarity of mind is allowing you to embark on this journey? We would love to hear about how you manage the stress and learn about your coping skills.

CJS: Thank you, It is a real blessing. Absolutely, being sober gives me the drive needed to keep going at the pace I am. I manage my stress by working out and meditating. Ironically, not drinking is a lot less stressful and relaxing. Drinking gave me anxiety and made me very irritable. I’m much better at positively harnessing my energy and focusing on the good thing’s vs the bad. 

CFM: Thank you SO MUCH for your time. We can’t wait to try out your family-friendly recipe with our Cincinnati family and visit Salazar’s new location later this Spring! A night out to enjoy a good meal together is so important for parents (date your spouse, as they say)!!!

CJS: My pleasure! I look forward to hosting you all in our dining rooms!

CFM: Finally, congratulations on all of your accomplishments and successes. We love the hard work you are putting in to make sure Cincy is on the map for flavorful, fabulous food.

CJS: Thank you!!

The post Getting to Know José Salazar appeared first on Cincinnati Family Magazine.

Spring and summer are perfect seasons for outdoor activities like hiking and watching your kids games. Having easy-to-carry, delicious snacks can enhance these experiences. Here are some simple recipes from Marci Renee’s collection that are ideal for such occasions:

Muffins & Breads
Muffins are not only quick and easy to make, but they also travel well! Place in a ziploc bag or container to enjoy throughout the day as a quick snack. If the weather is a bit warmer, place any recipes that have chocolate chips on the top of a cooler in a basket to keep them cool and the chocolate from melting!

● Double Chocolate Chip Muffins Recipe
● Keto Blueberry Muffins
● Quick & Easy Homemade Blueberry Muffins
● Chocolate Chip Banana Bread
● Cream Cheese Lemon Blueberry Bread

Trail Mix
One of my favorite things that I constantly make for my kiddos is my Homemade Trail Mix. You can add in things like M&M’s, peanuts or whatever you want really! Just toss it together in a bowl and store in a mason jar.

Chickpea Salad
On busy weeks when we have practices and plethora of games on the weekend, I will make my Chickpea Salad Recipe. It’s not only great for meal prepping as it will last all week long, but it’s great to throw in a cooler and you have a light and healthy snack!

Cinnamon Sugar Pretzels
This is one of my viral recipes! If you are looking to take something sweet with you my Cinnamon Sugar Pretzels are it! They feed a crowd on a budget and keep well in an air tight container or mason jar!

Grape Salad
If you are feeding tiny mouths, be sure to cut the grapes in half to prevent a choking hazard.
Otherwise, my Grape Salad Recipe is easy to throw together. This will need to stay in a cooler
as it contains cream cheese, but it’s so good, easy to make and transports great in a mason jar!

Having a Derby Party or Easter gathering? Check out Marci Renee’s other recipes, HERE!

Marci Renee is a local momma of 3 who shares family recipes, DIY projects and so much more. Check out her website by clicking here  and be sure to follow her on Facebook by clicking here.

The post Spring Time Snacks appeared first on Cincinnati Family Magazine.

The Ultimate Super Bowl Snack Roundup: 8 Recipes to Enjoy While Watching the Big Game

Super Bowl Sunday is one of the most anticipated days of the year, and what better way to enjoy the game than with a spread full of delicious, crowd-pleasing snacks? Whether you’re hosting a party with friends and family or simply watching the big game at home, the right snacks can take your celebration to the next level. From creamy dips to savory bites, we’ve gathered a selection of mouthwatering recipes that are guaranteed to score big with your guests. Here’s your ultimate Super Bowl snack roundup with eight irresistible Instant Pot and easy-to-make dishes to keep everyone fueled and ready for the game!

1. Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Dip

No Super Bowl party is complete without Buffalo Chicken Dip, and the Instant Pot makes it easier than ever to prepare. This creamy, spicy dip is packed with shredded chicken, cream cheese, hot sauce, and a generous amount of cheese. It’s perfect for dipping tortilla chips, crackers, or veggies like celery. You can even make it ahead of time and reheat it when it’s time to dig in. Whether you’re a fan of mildor extra-spicy, this dip will be a touchdown at your party.

2. Instant Pot Chili Recipe (Keto Friendly)

For those following a low-carb or keto diet, this Instant Pot Chili recipe will be the perfect fit for your game day spread. With flavorful ground beef, a medley of spices, and a hearty texture, this chili is comforting and satisfying. It’s keto-friendly, so you won’t have to worry about the carbs while still enjoying a bowl of warm, filling chili. Top it with cheese, sour cream, and green onions for the perfect finishing touches!

3. Instant Pot Chipotle Pulled Pork

Tender and smoky Instant Pot Chipotle Pulled Pork is a must-try for your Super Bowl menu. The Instant Pot makes cooking this dish a breeze, and the chipotle seasoning adds a spicy, smoky kick that everyone will love. Serve it on slider buns, tacos, or nachos for a versatile and flavorful option. You can even make extra and use it for leftovers the next day!

4. Meatball Sliders

These Meatball Sliders are a fan favorite, and for good reason! With juicy, flavorful meatballs nestled between soft slider buns and topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella, they’re the perfect handheld snack for Super Bowl Sunday. You can even add some basil or a sprinkle of Parmesan for an extra burst of flavor. These sliders are simple to make, yet packed with flavor, making them the ultimate comfort food during the big game.

5. Beer Cheese

Rich and creamy Beer Cheese is another crowd-pleasing dip that pairs perfectly with pretzels, chips, or even veggies. The combination of sharp cheddar and the subtle bitterness of beer creates a dip that’s savory, smooth, and absolutely addictive. It’s easy to make, and you can even make it ahead of time and keep it warm in a slow cooker. Your guests will love dunking their snacks into this decadent dip!

6. Steak Quesadillas

For something a little different, try making Steak Quesadillas. These are loaded with tender steak, melted cheese, and your favorite seasonings, all tucked inside a crispy tortilla. They’re perfect for hand-held snacking, and you can serve them with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for added flavor. These quesadillas can be customized with your favorite veggies or toppings, making them a versatile and delicious option for your Super Bowl feast.

7. Texas Twinkies

If you’re looking to spice things up, Texas Twinkies are a must-try! These bacon-wrapped, stuffed jalapeños are filled with cream cheese and shredded cheddar, creating a perfect balance of heat, creaminess, and smokiness. Whether you like them mild or extra spicy, these little bite-sized treats are sure to be a hit. They’re a great finger food for your guests to munch on throughout the game!

8. Smoked Cream Cheese

For a truly unique and flavorful dip, Smoked Cream Cheese is the way to go. Smoked over wood chips, this cream cheese takes on a smoky richness that pairs beautifully with crackers, vegetables, or even pita chips. It’s an easy-to-make, no-fuss dip that will have everyone talking.
Plus, it’s a fantastic option for guests looking for something a little different than the usual dips and spreads.

Bonus Tips for the Best Super Bowl Spread:
● Prep Ahead: Many of these recipes, like the Buffalo Chicken Dip, Pulled Pork, and Beer Cheese, can be made ahead of time and reheated before your guests arrive.
● Dipping Stations: Set up a dip station with a variety of chips, veggies, and breads for your guests to pair with their favorite dips.
● Drink Pairings: Don’t forget to pair your snacks with refreshing drinks like craft beer, soda, or fun game day cocktails!

With these eight amazing recipes, your Super Bowl spread is sure to be the MVP of the day. From spicy dips to smoky meats, these dishes are full of flavor and easy to make, ensuring your guests will stay satisfied through every touchdown, field goal, and halftime show. Try them all
and elevate your game day experience with these must-have snacks.

What’s your go-to Super Bowl recipe? Let us know in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this roundup with your fellow game day enthusiasts!

Marci Renee is a local momma of 3 who shares family recipes, DIY projects and so much more. Check out her website by clicking here  and be sure to follow her on Facebook by clicking here.

The post Superb Super Bowl Recipes appeared first on Cincinnati Family Magazine.

Now get in the kitchen with the kiddos and get creative!

Stuffing Waffles

Whip out your waffle maker and your leftover stuffing (errr, dressing???). There is no specific “recipe” for this one. Just plop, press and eat. Stuffing Waffles are delicious when topped with a little bit of mashed potatoes, cranberries and gravy, too.

Pizza

Grab some pre-made pizza dough and get to assembling leftover pizzas! Pizza dough + mashed potatoes + stuffing + cranberry and turkey topping.

Turkey Salad

Take your favorite Chicken Salad recipe and swap out the protein for some of that leftover turkey. Light and tasty after that heavy Thanksgiving meal.

Quiche

Pie crust + leftovers + eggs + some cheddar cheese = Delicious.

Pot Pie

Leftover Turkey? Add in a few frozen veggies, some cream of chicken soup and finally, toss a pie crust or even some biscuits on top!

Soup

It’s soup weather! Leftover turkey + vegetables + broth… rice or pasta would be a lovely addition. Many add in a turkey panini on the side to complete the meal.

Chili

Leftover turkey + beans + onion + peppers + chili powder + rotel. Smush leftover stuffing into a muffin tin, and boom! Stuffing muffins on the side. Yum.

Upgraded Grilled Cheese

Bread + cheese + turkey +bacon + cranberry sauce.

The post Thanksgiving Leftover “Recipes” appeared first on Cincinnati Family Magazine.

Order your boxes of apples HERE.

For the following dates:

Mason, Oh (4934 Western Row Road)
September 17, 2022 @ 8:30 p.m.

Cincinnati, Oh (7875 Montgomery Road)
September 17, 2022 @ 3:30 p.m.

Cincinnati, Oh (4601 Eastgate Mall Drive)
September 18, 2022 @ 9 a.m.

Covington, KY (4001 Winston Ave)
September 18, 2022 @ 12:30 p.m.

Florence, Ky (2008 Florence Mall)
September 18 @ 3:30 p.m.

Looking for some ideas on what to do with your Apple Truck apples? Check out these four awesome apple recipes, perfect for after school snacks! 

Awesome Applesauce
Ingredients: 10 cups apples, ½ cup sugar, ½ teaspoon cinnamon, 1 cup water and 1 tablespoon lemon juice, ¼ teaspoon kosher salt.

Recipe: Core and slice apples, then simply add all ingredients to a crockpot and cook on low for 5 – 6 hours. Stir the apples to break them up, smashing as needed. Use an immersion blender if a smooth consistency is desired.

Upgraded Caramel Apple Slices 
Ingredients: Sliced apples, 8 oz. whipped cream cheese, caramel sauce. Optional toppings: nuts, chocolate chips, sprinkles.

Recipe: Core and slice apples. Spread a container of whipped cream cheese on a serving plate and cover with your favorite caramel sauce. Add your favorite toppings and get to dipping! 

Apple Surprise Grilled Cheese
Ingredients: Sliced apples, 2 slices of your favorite cheese, 2 slices of bread and a bit of butter. 

Recipe: assemble your sandwich! Place 2 slices of cheese and a layer of sliced apples in between two slices of bread. Heat butter in a nonstick skillet and press the sandwich lightly into place. Flip once. Then, enjoy! 

Air Fryer Apple Chips 
Ingredients: sliced apples and cinnamon

Recipe: Preheat your air fryer to 350*F.  Slice apples thinly and remove seeds. Sprinkle with cinnamon and place a single layer of sliced apples in the air fryer basket. Cook for 4 – 5 minutes, gently flatten and flip. Cook for an additional 4 – 5 minutes. Yum! 

Click HERE to discover 20 ways to use 20 pounds of fresh Michigan apples! 

The post Four Amazing Apple Recipes for After School Snacks sponsored by The Apple Truck appeared first on Cincinnati Family Magazine.

Ingredients: 

• 1 pound lean ground turkey
• 1 pack or 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 bell pepper
• 1 onion
• 1 cup frozen corn
• 1 can black beans (rinsed and drained)
• 1 can low sodium chili beans
• 1 can diced tomatoes (in a pinch, salsa is a yummy substitution).  

Directions: 

Add canned items to crock pot (rinsed and drained black beans, low sodium chili beans, diced tomatoes). Chop onion and bell pepper, add them to crockpot. Brown ground turkey in a pan. Add chili powder to meat. Add meat to crock pot. Stir. Cook on low 2 – 3 hours. Enjoy. 

Topping ideas include: Greek yogurt/light sour cream, sliced avocado and shredded cheese.

The post Recipes We Like: Tasty Turkey Chili appeared first on Cincinnati Family Magazine.

Ingredients

• 4 tbs. butter
• 1 10-oz. package marshmallows
• 6 cups Kellogg’s Rice Krispies cereal
• 1 box Jell-O instant pudding mix, caramel
• 1/2 cup toffee bits
• 8 oz. white chocolate

Directions

Measure 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal into large bowl and set aside.  Melt butter in large saucepan.  Once melted, add marshmallows and pudding mix (it will gunk up at first, but don’t panic, once the marshmallows start melting, it will smooth itself out).  Remove saucepan from heat.  Dump cereal into melted mixture and stir until thoroughly coated.  Press into a greased 9×13 pan and let cool.  Once cool, drizzle melted white chocolate and sprinkle toffee bits over treats.  Enjoy!

The post Caramel Cereal Treats appeared first on Cincinnati Family Magazine.

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup butter, softened
• 1/4 cup vegetable shortening
• 1/2 cup peanut butter
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 tsp. vanilla
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp. baking soda
• 1/2 tsp. baking powder
• 1 1/2 cups corn flake cereal
• 3/4 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup flaked coconut

Directions

Preheat oven to 350.  Grease two baking sheets.  Beat butter, shortening, peanut butter, and sugar until light and fluffy.  Beat in eggs and vanilla.  Sift flour, baking soda, baking powder over egg mixture, and beat until smooth.  Stir in corn flakes, oats, and coconut.  Drop cookies by tablespoons onto baking sheets, press lightly to flatten.  Bake eight minutes or until firm, then cool on a wire rack.

The post Little Cowpoke Cookies appeared first on Cincinnati Family Magazine.

Peanut Butter Oatmeal Banana Smoothie

This one will take a little advance preparation, so I like to get things ready the night before.  

• 1 frozen banana
• 1/4 cup rolled oats
• 2/3 cup milk or milk substitute
• 2 tbs. peanut butter

Combine the rolled oats and milk or milk substitute in a jar and let sit in the fridge overnight.  Peel a banana and wrap it in plastic wrap and freeze overnight.  The next morning, chop up your frozen banana and dump it with the peanut butter, and oatmeal mixture in your blender.  Blitz until smooth and enjoy a “milkshake” for breakfast!

Banana “Nice” Cream

Another recipe that calls for frozen bananas!

• 4 – 5 frozen bananas
• Add-ins of choice (peanut butter, chocolate chips, cocoa powder, other frozen fruit like strawberries, etc.)

Add bananas to a food processor and blend, occasionally scraping the sides of the bowl, until smooth.  Stir in your add-ins.  Scoop into a bowl and dive in as soft serve, or dump it into a freezer-safe container and freeze for at least an hour. 

Banana Bread

I like to make a streusel topping for this made out of flour, brown sugar, cold butter and a bit of cinnamon and nutmeg.

• 4 cups flour
• 3 tsp. baking powder
• 1 tsp. salt
• 1/2 tsp. baking soda
• 2 tsp. ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp. ground nutmeg
• 4 eggs
• 1 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 1/2 cups melted butter
• 2 cups mashed bananas
• 2 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp. almond extract

Preheat oven to 350.  Combine flour, baking powder, salt, baking soda, cinnamon and nutmeg in a large bowl and set aside.  Beat eggs in separate bowl until light and frothy.  Add sugar and melted butter, mixing well.  Stir in mashed banana, vanilla and almond extract.  Add flour to banana mixture and stir just to combine (don’t overmix it, you’ll regret it!).  Spoon into pans (I like to make mini-loaves) and bake for one hour.  

The post Bananas for Bananas! appeared first on Cincinnati Family Magazine.