Winter Weather Recipes to Keep You Warm and Cozy
As winter weather rolls into Dallas-Fort Worth, folks may need to fend for themselves when it comes to dining in. Non-perishable foods, along with frozen foods and pantry staples with a long life, are a good place to turn while you’re waiting out the snow.
The Dallas Morning News staff has a few favorite recipes, easy and simple, to help get you through cold days:
I’ll start with my picks.
7-can Soup
Eat Drink D-FW
If you want a true-blue non-perishable recipe, I recommend Ree Drummond’s 7-can Soup. It’s exactly what it sounds like and comes together as a flavorful, legume-rich soup in 20 minutes on the stove. Pick up some corn chips (El Patio Salted Tortilla Chips are my go-to) to sprinkle over the top.
I’d add a sweet tooth can be satiated with these caramel brownies, a non-perishable-heavy recipe that’s floated around for years. I recommended doubling the cake component and sprinkling flaky sea salt over the finished product.
The Jennifer Aniston Salad (With More Protein)
Senior food reporter Sarah Blaskovich leans into a variation of the Jennifer Aniston salad, as its known, packed with grains, greens, something crunchy, herbs and cheese.
“The reason I like this recipe is because it’s protein packed and requires almost no cooking. (Just grains, but I like to keep around cooked quinoa for this very reason.),” Sarah said. “You just toss in whatever you have! Squeeze in some lemon. Add some chili-infused oil. Toss in grapes. Anything goes.”
Pizza Beans
Food reporter Claire Ballor recommends Pizza Beans. In a skillet, start by sautéing minced garlic and then add several tablespoons of tomato paste, allowing it to caramelize for a minute or so. Add a can of drained and rinsed cannellini beans and toss in the tomato and garlic mixture until they’re warmed through. Top with dried oregano and mozzarella or parmesan, which you can broil if you want a bubbly top.
Claire also suggests a short-cut version of eggs in purgatory. Simply heat jarred marinara over medium heat and crack eggs into it, cooking them to your desired level of doneness. Claire recommends crispy bread on the side and dollops of ricotta on top if you have them.
Smothered Meatballs
Julia James, a breaking news reporter, warns her suggestion requires having some ground beef in the freezer. But it is still pretty easy. “I love it as an easy substitute for making true smothered chicken or roast,” said Julia. Here are her instructions:
- Season 1 pound of ground beef using half a package of onion soup mix. Form the ground beef into meatballs.
- Brown meatballs in a skillet, and then dump a can of cream of mushroom soup over the top. Cook together for a few minutes, until the soup is heated through.
Julia recommends serving the dish over white rice.
She also has a tip if you lose power and are worried about spoilage: If you have access to a grill, cook your meat. It’ll keep longer cooked than raw.
Spiced Feta Meatballs
Zaira Perez Viera, an audience journalist, has had this recipe from Zoe Barrie on repeat — sans winter weather. You’ll need ground chicken, but you can find out more on TikTok.
Tapas
Food reporter Imelda Garcia points to toast dressing up with toppings, tapas-style. Turn to jambon serrano or smoked salmon, or go vegan with avocado toast.
Tuna salad
It might seem like a no-brainer but it’s a classic pantry staple for a reason. Business reporter Lana Ferguson likes a simple mix: mayo, mustard, pickles, and a little Tonys Chachere’s. But hey, maybe this is your chance to try Matthew McConaughey’s unique blend?
Lana has a side note: Add some flare to a standard peanut butter sandwich with things like sliced bananas or cinnamon or chocolate chips and marshmallows (from the hot cocoa stash).
Final note
Don’t forget the old standby: Reheat that can of soup you’ve been stowing, like Lilly Kersh, who covers Collin County for the paper. “It’s easy, cheap and comforting, and you can add what you have!,” said Lilly.
Conclusion
These recipes are perfect for a snowy day in Dallas-Fort Worth. They are easy to make, delicious, and can be made with non-perishable ingredients. Whether you are in the mood for something hearty and comforting or light and easy, there is something on this list for everyone. So next time you are snowed in, try one of these recipes and stay warm and cozy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about the recipes:
Q: What if I don’t have all the ingredients for a recipe?
A: Don’t worry! These recipes are flexible and can be made with ingredients you have on hand. Feel free to substitute or omit ingredients as needed.
Q: Can I make these recipes if I don’t have a lot of cooking experience?
A: Yes! These recipes are easy to make and require minimal cooking experience. They are perfect for beginners or for those who are short on time.
Q: Can I make these recipes in advance?
A: Yes! Many of these recipes can be made in advance and reheated when you are ready to eat. This is perfect for busy days or for meal prep.
Q: Are these recipes healthy?
A: While these recipes are delicious and comforting, they may not all be healthy. However, many of them can be made healthier by using healthier ingredients or reducing the amount of salt and sugar used.
