Cooking with Canola: Recipes and Tips
Canola oil is becoming increasingly popular among home cooks and professional chefs alike. With its neutral flavor and high smoke point, it is a versatile and healthy option for many cooking methods. In this article, we will explore some delicious recipes and tips for cooking with canola oil.
Recipes:
1. Grilled Canola Shrimp Skewers:
This simple yet delicious recipe is perfect for a summer BBQ or as an appetizer. Begin by marinating peeled and deveined shrimp in a mixture of minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Skewer the shrimp onto soaked wooden skewers and grill for 2-3 minutes on each side, brushing with canola oil. Serve with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and enjoy!
2. Baked Canola Chicken Parmesan:
Who says chicken parmesan has to be fried? This healthier version uses canola oil for a crispy and flavorful coating. Begin by coating chicken breasts in a mixture of breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Drizzle canola oil on a baking sheet and place the chicken on top. Bake at 375 degrees for 20 minutes, then flip and bake for an additional 15 minutes. Top with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese is melted. Serve with your favorite pasta or a side salad.
3. Honey Mustard Canola Roasted Vegetables:
A delicious and healthy side dish for any meal, these roasted vegetables are a crowd-pleaser. In a large bowl, toss together cubed sweet potatoes, carrots, and brussels sprouts with a mixture of canola oil, honey, dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and bake at 400 degrees for 25 minutes, flipping halfway through. The result is tender and caramelized vegetables with a touch of sweetness.
Tips:
1. Use Canola Oil for High Heat Cooking:
Canola oil has a high smoke point of 400 degrees, making it perfect for high heat cooking methods such as frying, grilling, and roasting. Its neutral flavor also makes it a great choice for dishes where the other ingredients are the star, such as stir-fries or baked goods.
2. Replace Butter with Canola Oil in Baking:
When baking, you can easily substitute canola oil for melted butter in a 1:1 ratio. Not only does this make your baked goods healthier, but it also results in a moist and tender texture. Just be sure to use a mild-tasting canola oil to avoid any unwanted flavors.
3. Make a Homemade Salad Dressing with Canola Oil:
Making your own salad dressing not only saves you money but also allows you to control the ingredients and flavors. A simple dressing can be made with canola oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, and herbs of your choice. Just mix everything together in a jar and shake well. You can even add in some minced garlic or shallots for extra flavor.
In conclusion, canola oil is a versatile and healthy cooking option that can enhance the flavor of your dishes. Whether you’re grilling, baking, or making a salad dressing, canola oil is a great choice that you can feel good about using in your cooking. Try out some of these recipes and tips and discover how canola oil can elevate your culinary creations. Happy cooking!