Ahhhh…home.

Especially after being away, there’s no place like it. I returned yesterday from a whirlwind trip to California in honor of my 20-year high school reunion (more on that soon!). Four days of drinking and eating and no exercise had me craving something healthy for dinner, but my post-travel laziness demanded ease. This is why every cook has her good old stand-bys– those go-to recipes you know by heart and can whip up in a flash! I decided to make my Hot/Sweet Everything Marinade to dress up grilled pork.

I’ve been making this marinade for years. It’s just so simple– it comes together quickly and packs a punch when it comes to flavor! It’s that magic combination of spicy and sweet. I started by finely chopping some peeled ginger, garlic, and a whole jalapeno (seeds and all!).

I chose pork last night because I wanted a lean protein, but I call it an “everything” marinade because it’s delicious on chicken, beef, veggies, tofu- your choice!

Into a bowl with the chopped goodies, I added honey for sweetness, soy sauce for salt, and sesame oil for a nutty flavor.

I tossed in about a teaspoon of crushed red pepper and whisked the marinade together- that’s it! I poured it right into a freezer bag with the pork and let it hang out in the fridge while I worked on some side dishes.

When it was grillin’ time, I set the pork on a plate for John to take outside. I poured the marinade into a small saucepan and let it simmer and reduce into a tasty sauce. YUM.

The weather was begging for al fresco dining, so we ate on the deck. I served the grilled pork with a scoop of the sauce on top, a little shake of sesame seeds. It was perfect with lemon-cilantro quinoa and a cucumber-avocado salad with dill. Candles and a glorious “welcome home” sunset provided the mood lighting.

Gorgeous and delicious!

Ahhhh…home.

Hot/Sweet Everything Marinade

You’ll need:

• 1 inch piece of peeled ginger, finely chopped
• 1 jalapeno, finely chopped (remove seeds for less heat)
• 2 large garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 1/3 cup honey
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 3 tablespoons sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon red pepper (depending on heat preference)

Whisk all ingredients in a bowl then use it to marinate your favorite protein. Before serving, simmer leftover marinade in a small saucepan until it reduces slightly. Pour over protein and serve with a side of sunset. YUM! 

**Check out the list of recipe links on my Food Bliss page!**