Rachel Burch joins me from Springfield, Missouri, to discuss various aspects of hospitality including her go-to Greek menu that she has been serving for over 17 years! An experienced hostess, Rachel tells us why it's so important to take a minute to "do the math" before having people over, ways to make cleaning easier, and even her favorite mops! Hear what she does to set the tone of her home before hospitality as well as how to keep the conversation flowing once people arrive. We're so glad you're here! (Visit www.comeoverfordinner.com for recipes, product links, and more!)
Greek Menu (By Rachel Burch)
Greek Pasta Salad: 1 pound pasta (I usually use penne.) 1 package of salami, chopped 1 jar of kalamata olives, drained 4 Roma tomatoes, chopped One package of crumbled feta ½ cup red wine vinegar (I usually add more to taste.) ½ cup olive oil 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 tablespoon basil 1 tablespoon oregano Cook and drain pasta. Add all other ingredients while it's still warm; stir.
Pita Bread: 3 cups flour 2 teaspoons salt 2 teaspoons baking powder 2 teaspoons sugar 2 cups plus 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt Stir all ingredients together. You will probably have to use your hands toward the end. Cover and let rest for 30 minutes.
Divide dough into 16 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a circle about ¼ inch thick or thinner. Cook on griddle or in skillet over medium heat, 2-3 minutes per side. Repeat until all dough has been cooked. Greek Lemon Chicken 2 pounds chicken pieces Grated zest of one lemon ¼ cup olive oil 1 ½ teaspoons salt 1 ½ teaspoons pepper 2 teaspoons minced garlic Combine and let marinate for a few minutes or hours. Can be baked, grilled, or sautéed right away or later in the day.
Tzatziki Sauce
1 medium cucumber, shredded and squeezed of all excess moisture
1 cup plain Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon pepper
1 teaspoon chopped fresh dill (can use dried if fresh isn't available)
Combine and let chill for at least an hour before serving.
Serve with:
Serve the chicken, pita (or Naan), and tzatziki sauce with a Greek salad, chopped tomatoes and cucumbers, rice, hummus, other fresh or roasted veggies....so many possibilities!
Other recipe mentioned in episode: