Tag: guacamole

Calaveras Cantina – Jupiter, FL

On By greg@kandflivingIn Beer/Cocktails, Eating Out, Photo Gallery, UncategorizedLeave a comment

Working in south Florida recently, I happened on this modern Mexican restaurant that’s a game-changer.  You can find all manner of terribly ordinary Mexican restaurants around the country with typical fare and average food.  However, when we stepped into this beautiful spot with authentic fare and a modern twist, we were psyched!  By land or by sea, a stop at Calaveras Cantina in Harbourside Place will be well worth your trip.

IMG_0019

We walked into the bright open space and were greeted by friendly staff and the aroma of onions, spices and fried deliciousness.  The space is quite large with a bar, comfortable booths and outdoor seating to enjoy Jupiter’s weather and harbor.  The bright wall decorations and colorful glass lighting make for a lively environment.  We settled into the menu while sipping some Casa Margaritas.  There’s a lengthy selection of margaritas and other cocktails, available by the glass or pitcher (dangerous!).  You should try their Watermelon Jalapeño for a sweet-hot twist on the original.

IMG_0018

There was no doubt we needed fresh corn tortilla chips.  We also quickly realized that table side guacamole was a no-brainer.  Fresh, creamy, spicy and citrusy, it was the perfect pairing with our margaritas and chips.  I was impressed with the servers who were attentive and clearly “guac experts”!  There’s a dizzying selection of traditional favorites on the menu with a modern twist – think duck confit empanadas or pork belly tacos with kimchi.  I settled on the traditional tacos al pastor with spicy pork, pineapple, cilantro and chihuahua cheese.  How happy were my tastebuds??  Wow!

IMG_0020

I don’t get to Jupiter enough, but when I do, I will certainly make Calaveras Cantina a regular stop for lunch or dinner.  Whether a casual afternoon lunch or dinner with clients, this is an experience that everyone will appreciate.  Curtis Peery and friends have built a fantastic concept that warrants kudos on many levels – food, service and atmosphere.  Check out more of Palm Beach’s tequila-serving gem at calaverascantina.com.  Dig in!

Advertisement

Southwest Turkey Burgers w/Guacamole

On By greg@kandflivingIn Photo Gallery, Recipes, Uncategorized1 Comment

Weekdays are tough to create interesting dinners with busy work schedules, activities, etc.  Even firing up the grill, something like a turkey burger can be pretty pedestrian, but it doesn’t have to be.  Try this Southwest twist on the ol’ bird-patty, we loved it!

SOUTHWEST TURKEY BURGERS

Ingredients

  • 2 1/4-Lbs Turkey Burger Patties
  • 1 Tbs Taco Seasoning
  • 1 Medium Red Onion
  • 1 Tsp Olive Oil
  • Salt & Pepper
  • 2 slices Colby Jack Cheese
  • 2 Buns, Lightly Buttered

Directions

  • Preheat grill and dust both sides of each turkey burger with taco seasoning.
  • Slice red onion into 1/2 inch thick slices, brush lightly with olive oil and salt and pepper each side.
  • Grill turkey burgers and onion slices over high heat for 4-5 minutes per side.  Juices should run clear for the burgers.  Onion slices should be charred and soft, but hold together.
  • Place cheese on burgers and place buns, buttered side down, on the grill.  Take everything off grill and assemble burgers on buns.  Top with a slice of grilled onion and a healthy dollop of guacamole.

These are super easy to make and always turn out like a restaurant-quality burger.  Don’t be afraid to play with the toppings and add/substitute salsa, hot sauce, pickled jalapeño or pepper jack cheese!

FullSizeRender 17

EVERYDAY GUACAMOLE

Ingredients

  • 2 Ripe Avocados
  • 1/4 Red Onion, Diced
  • 4 Campari Tomatoes, Seeded & Diced
  • 2 Tbs Fresh Lime Juice
  • Salt & Pepper To Taste

Instructions

  • Core, scoop and dice avocados and place into bowl.
  • Pour lime juice over avocado and add tomatoes and onions.
  • Liberally season with salt and pepper and mix well.  I like mine a little chunky, but mix and mash with a fork to your desired consistency.

This is the basic recipe for guac in our house.  It’s easy to multiply if you need more for a party.  I also like to add garlic and/or jalapeño depending on what I’m using it for.  Seriously, always keep these ingredients on hand because it couldn’t look more like culinary genius when you pull this together last-minute for guests or just an impromptu beer or margarita on the patio!