Mc Cormick Recipe-Inspirations

The first time I saw these little spice packets, I thought, "What a gimmick!  I can just use spices I already have and do the same thing!"  But, here's the coolest part about these: The back has a pop-out recipe card that you can keep, so the first time, you use their spices, and then after that, you can either buy the pre-measured (likely fresher) spices, or you can use what's already  in the house.

I've made two of them regularly, although there are many options.  The one shown above is wonderful!  I've substituted other vegetables for the potatoes (even though I'd rather have the potatotes, sigh), and then it's a legal recipe.

McCormick Rosemary Roasted Chicken (with potatoes- but I don't use them for obvious reasons)

Prep time: 15 min; Cook time: 30 min; 6 servings

Package includes: 

-2 tsp. paprika

-1 1/2 tsp. crushed rosemary leaves

-1 tsp. minced garlic

-1/2 tsp. pepper

You will need: 

-2 T. olive oil

-1 tsp. salt

-6 bone-in chicken thighs, skin removed (abt. 2 lbs); I always use breasts, though.

-1 1/2 lbs. small red potatoes (if you are going to be bad or if you have the will-power to cook them only for the rest of your dinner party)

Mix oil and all spices in a large bowl.  Add chicken (and potatoes); toss to coat well.  Arrange in single layer on foil-lined pan (foil... I never read that part, dang it).  Roast at 425 for 30 minutes or until chicken is cooked.

McCormick Caribbean Grilled Steak

Prep time: 10 min; Refrigerate: 30 min; Cook time: 15 min; 6 servings

Package includes:
-2 tsp. minced garlic
-1 tsp. ground cumin
-1 tsp. minced onions
-1 tsp. oregano leaves
-1/2 tsp. crushed red pepper (optional)

You will need:
-1 tsp. salt
-1 1/2 lbs. flank steak or boneless beef sirloin steak
-3 T. olive oil, divided
-1/4 c. fresh lime juice
-3 cups pineapple chunks (not on the list, and I've never used it when cooking it; it doesn't take away from the recipe at all).

Mix all spices except red pepper in small bowl until well-blended.  Stir in red pepper to taste, if desired.  Brush steak with 1 T. of oil.  Rub with 2 T of spice mixture.  Refrigerate 30 minutes or longer.  Stir in lime juice and remaining oil into spice mixture.  Thread pineapples on skewers, if you are using them.  Grill skewers over medium heat 5-10 minutes or until golden brown, turning occasionally and brushing with 1/2 of juice mixture.  Grill steak over medium-high heat 6-7 minutes or until desired doneness, brushing with remaining juice mixture.  Slice and serve.