Venice is definitely a city for one's bucket list

 

Here’s another fusion recipe combining two distinct culinary traditions: Mexican Street Tacos with Italian Caprese Salad.

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For the Mexican Street Tacos:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or beef or pork, if preferred)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 8 small corn tortillas
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
• 1 lime, cut into wedges
• Salsa or hot sauce, to taste (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meat:

   • Season the chicken (or chosen meat) with cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and slightly charred.
   • Remove from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before chopping it into small, bite-sized pieces.

2. Warm the Tortillas:

   • Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side, until they are soft and warm. Alternatively, you can wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave them for 20-30 seconds.

3. Assemble the Tacos:

   • To assemble, place a generous amount of chopped chicken on each tortilla. Top with cilantro, red onion, and a squeeze of fresh lime. Optionally, drizzle with salsa or hot sauce for an extra kick.

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For the Italian Caprese Salad:

Ingredients:

• 2 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
• 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze or vinegar
• Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Assemble the Salad:

   • Arrange the tomato slices, mozzarella slices, and fresh basil leaves in an alternating pattern on a serving platter.

2. Season:

   • Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze or vinegar. Sprinkle with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.

3. Serve:

   • Serve immediately as a refreshing side dish to the tacos.

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Serving Suggestion:

Serve the Mexican Street Tacos alongside the Italian Caprese Salad for a flavorful and colorful meal that combines the zest of Mexican street food with the freshness of Italian cuisine. The warm, spiced chicken tacos are balanced beautifully by the cool, creamy mozzarella and the acidity of the tomatoes and balsamic in the Caprese salad. This fusion of Mexican and Italian is an exciting and delightful combination that will wow your guests!