Category: Winning-recipes

Do not go to a spring or summer cookout without something tasty to share!  Give our Tuna Salad recipe a try for a quick snack at the next barbecue.

Level up your summer seafood appetizers with a fresh take on grilled prawns – Grilled Prawns and Lemon Beurre Blanc. Lemon Beurre Blanc Sauce Ingredients 3 oz. Chopped Fine Shallot, Peeled Fresh 8 fl oz. Chardonnay ¼ tsp. Fresh Thyme ½ tsp. Cracked Black Pepper 4 oz. Whipping Cream 1 lb. Unsalted Butter (solid and cut 1” thick) ½ Fresh Lemon Juice Kosher Salt to Taste Ground Black Pepper Black to Taste Preparation Combine the shallots, chardonnay, thyme, and cracked pepper in a heavy bottomed saucepan Gently simmer until almost (90%) all the liquid has evaporated Add the heavy cream and heat until mix is reduced by half Whisk in the butter over high heat until all the butter has been incorporated Add salt and ground pepper to preference and add lemon juice Strain and keep warm in an insulated thermos   Grilled Prawns Ingredients 4 Jumbo Shell on Shrimp 3 oz. of Lemon Beurre Blanc Sauce ½ oz. Herb Salad Mix ½ Grilled Lemon Steak Seasoning to Taste 1 lb. Butter 1 tsp. Fresh Minced Garlic 1 tsp. Chopped Chives   Preparation – Garlic Herb Butter Add minced fresh garlic to pound of butter and slowly melt in a small sauce pot Set aside for prawns Preparation – Prawns Remove the head, if still attached Cut the body in half lengthwise but leave enough flesh and shell to keep the two halves attached Season the prawns with the steak seasoning Place on grill and cook till done; prawns should be firm to the touch Remove from the grill and toss the melted garlic herb butter over the prawns Presentation Place the herb salad mix in the middle of a large, round plate and top with the grilled lemon Place the shrimp around the herb salad mix Ladle Lemon Beurre Blanc Sauce around the shrimp Sprinkle with finely chopped chives to taste Now that you’ve made this impressive appetizer, please enjoy and share photos of your masterpiece by tagging us on social media. Ready to enjoy more impressive entrees with less work? Join us at some of the finest restaurants in Southwest Michigan and Northern Indiana: Copper Rock Steakhouse, Kankakee Grille, Timbers, Edgewater Café, and The Buffet.

Make Mom smile first thing in the morning this Mother’s Day with Cinnamon Raisin French Toast and Bananas Foster Topping.

If you’re looking for a simple meal bursting with flavor, this chicken and pasta dish using fresh ingredients like tomato, basil and parsley is sure to please. Summers are better with this recipe and a flourishing garden in the backyard! Spinach & Roasted Red Pepper Stuffed Chicken Makes 4 servings Ingredients 4 5 oz. Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts 1 Cup Fresh Spinach Leaves 1 Cup Roasted Red Peppers (Long Strips) Non-stick Cooking Spray ½ Cup Provolone Cheese 4 Pieces Aluminum Foil (10″x10″) Salt and Pepper to Taste Preparation Preheat oven to 350° Place your chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap and pound with a mallet or a small frying pan so the chicken breasts flatten out evenly. Lay foil pieces flat, spray with non-stick cooking spray until one side of the foil is covered, and lay the chicken breast in the middle of the foil. Season the chicken breast with salt and pepper. Lay the spinach evenly on top of the seasoned chicken. Lay the peppers and provolone on top of the spinach. Starting on one edge of the breast, roll chicken up tightly. Roll chicken breast in the aluminum foil forming a tight rolled cylinder. Wrap rolled chicken breast with foil and twist each end to seal. Place in the oven for 25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165° Once the chicken is fully cooked remove from the oven, unwrap from the foil, and slice into small medallions. Serve immediately with pasta and sauce.   Pasta You can use your favorite pasta for this dish, but we recommend paccheri, large macaroni or fusilli for this dish. Prepare your pasta according to the instructions on the box (or if you’re really brave, make it homemade!).   Tomato Herb Sauce Ingredients 4 Large Ripe Tomatoes ¼ Cup              Extra Virgin Olive Oil 2 Cloves Minced Garlic ¼ Cup              Fresh Chopped Basil ¼ Cup              Fresh Chopped Parsley ½ Teaspoon    Crushed Red Pepper Flakes ¼ Teaspoon    Salt ¼ Teaspoon    Pepper ¼ Cup              Romano Cheese ¼ Cup              White Wine The Juice from Half of a Lemon Preparation Heat a large sauté pan with olive oil. Place the tomatoes, garlic, crushed peppers, salt and pepper, and Romano into the pan and cook till the tomatoes soften and liquid begins to form in the pan. Add white wine and lemon juice to deglaze the pan. Add basil and parsley. Remove from heat and pour precooked pasta immediately.   Now that you’ve prepared everything, it’s time to plate your delicious pasta meal. Place several chicken medallions on your plate, add some pasta and sauce and top with the Romano cheese.   Did you impress yourself? Share photos on social media with #FourWindsCasinos or by tagging us. The Four Winds culinary team is dedicated to the art of preparing and serving the best foods. Come enjoy breakfast to late night at Timbers, The Buffet, Edgewater Café, Kankakee Grille, and Copper Rock Steakhouse.

Surprise your friends and family at your next gathering with Grilled Eggplant Roulade! Yes it sounds fancy and difficult but in reality this beautiful and delicious appetizer only takes eight steps. Ingredients 2                      Large Eggplant, Peeled and Sliced Lengthwise 2 c.                  Balsamic Vinaigrette 1 Package         Kraft Philadelphia Cream Cheese, Room Temperature 6 Pieces           Cooked, Diced Bacon or your favorite vegetarian substitute 1                      Jalapeno Deseeded and Small Diced ¼ tsp               Sea Salt 1 tbsp              Roasted Garlic 1-2 tbsp           Smoked Paprika   Preparation Place the eggplant in a large bowl and dowse with dressing. Allow the eggplant to marinate for 1 hour in the dressing, tossing the vegetables around every 10 minutes to evenly absorb the marinade. Arrange the eggplant on a preheated grill over a medium flame and grill evenly on both sides to thoroughly cook but not char. Allow it to cool. Place room temperature cream cheese in a bowl and stir in the roasted garlic and jalapenos Thoroughly fold in the bacon, salt and pepper. Now spread a thin layer of cream cheese spread on an entire slice of eggplant and roll. Repeat for all eggplant and lightly sprinkle each with the paprika. They are now ready to serve. Now that you have made a scrumptious party treat, share photos of your masterpiece on social media by tagging us and using #FourWindsCasinos. Try more of our appetizer recipes like Cauliflower Wings, Chili Con Queso, Lobster Dogs, and more.

Stand out from the crowd with these delicious game time snacks: Candied Coaster Snacks, Spicy Wings With A Twist, Slam Dunk Magic Bars.

Warm up from the tips of your lips to the bottom of your toes with Egg Drop Soup! Six simple ingredients come together to make a tantalizingly delicious soup. Pair it with garlic bread as a main entrée or enjoy as an appetizer before beef & broccoli.

It’s a great feeling on a cold day to indulge in a warm cup of our Roasted Red Pepper & Mascarpone Cheese Soup.

Dig in – it’s crab cake time! Crab cakes are the perfect way to enjoy a delectable seafood feature with full flavor and less fuss.

It’s getting hot in the kitchen with these Buffalo Cauliflower wings!

Coming from the same family as broccoli, kale, cabbage, and brussels sprouts, cauliflower is highly nutritious and versatile. Using this simple recipe, you can make an appetizer or main entrée that is not only delicious, but also low in calories and packed with nutritional value.

Be the ultimate host or the ideal party guest with delicious and quick party snacks like Chili Con Queso, Sliders, and Kettle Corn!

All the flavors of the holidays come together in a delicious dessert bread. This Cinnamon Sweet Potato Bread recipe can also be easily altered to make it vegan or gluten-free to allow all your party guests the opportunity to enjoy it!

Fill the kitchen with the sweet aroma of a handcrafted pie! This simple, delicious dessert is perfect for the upcoming holidays, so give it a try and don’t forget to share your photos!

It’s the time of year when holiday cooking is in full swing. From turkey and ham to homemade cookies and treats, this time of year is one of our favorite times at Four Winds Casinos. Our team brings a staple side dish of sweet and savory perfectly paired with the main dish! Bacon Apple Walnut Dressing will be gone in a flash and have you ready for another excuse to make this recipe.

‘Tis the season for pumpkin! Give our pumpkin fudge a try for a delicious festive treat.

Roasted Butternut Squash and Wild Mushroom Salad is a simple and delicious dish to bring to your parties all year long!

A fresh, seafood appetizer idea for your events. Give Grilled Prawns with Lemon Beurre Blanc sauce a try.

Be ready to impress on your next date night in with our Petite Filet with Orzo Pasta Salad recipe. This great dish will not only keep you at the top of their favorites list, but it is a great entrée all year long!

Do you turn your nose up when you hear the word brussels sprouts? Or have you been interested in trying them but just haven’t taken the plunge? Brussels sprouts are high in fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making them a great addition to your side-dish recipes.

Not your average salad! Chef Brandon brings you an Asian Peanut Noodle Salad that includes a mixture of textures and flavors. It’s a great recipe for a BBQ or Asian themed night. Are your taste buds ready to dig in?

You’ve probably had a similar dish at many Asian dining spots, but Chef Brandon says this recipe from Chef Kuo is the bees’ knees. That’s enough for us to get excited, so let’s dive in.

Thirst quenching and refreshing flavor, Brazilian Lemonade is a must try. Chef Brandon and Cooking Creations bring you a three-ingredient beverage perfect for summer.

Risotto is great to enjoy but can be very intimidating to make at home as your sole focus must be on the entrée to have it turn out perfect. Chef Thomas takes us step by step on Cooking Creations with a Mushroom Parmesan Risotto. His 6-year-old loves it and it’s a recipe that can be easily adapted for personal tastes: vegan, steak, shrimp, chicken, tofu.

Simple and delectable, Lobster Corndogs are going to be the most desired item at your picnic. Chef Brandon brings life back and some spice to an old favorite. But lobster, really? Really! This recipe is refreshing and uses a tempura batter, so the entrée is light and crispy.  The batter is so perfect because we use club soda. It sounds strange but the carbonation helps aerate the batter and most importantly allows the lobster to fully cook. Club soda got it. But if you’re not sold on lobster, try steak. However, we highly suggest you give this whole recipe a try.

A dipping sauce that works great for marinating and more! Chef Drew’s Carolina BBQ Dipping Sauce is a must try. What makes it a Carolina sauce? The oh-so tasty vinegar base. Let’s give it a try.

These are not your average fries! Chef Drew’s Brined French Fries take time to prepare but every bite is worth the wait.

A rack of Lamb is not only impressive and delicious to eat but intimidating to think about cooking! Chef Brian of Copper Rock Steakhouse takes us through the 6 steps to grilling a rack of lamb that will impress everyone at the table.

Brisket is king of the party and rightfully so. When done right brisket is moist and flavorful, but it tends to be intimidating for people to cook themselves because of the trimming, seasoning ratios, and cooking time. Chef Drew is a brisket man and has brought a sweet, bitter, and savory seasoning combo to Cooking Creations! Clear out some space in your refrigerator and countertop because we’re all in with the brisket recipe.

You’ve seen it on the menu at most Italian spots and your taste buds love it! But what is Gnocchi? Gnocchi is a simple to make Italian dumpling. How simple? You probably already have the three main ingredients in your kitchen: Flour, Eggs, and Potatoes! It is a perfect change-up of pasta and can be topped with your favorite sauces or sautéed butter and herbs.

Have a craving for oysters but it’s too late for reservations at your favorite restaurant? Chef Brandon has you covered with Chargrilled Oysters on Cooking Creations. In three easy steps you’ll have delicious oysters perfect for an appetizer, side dish, or anytime snack. Go get some oysters and open the pantry, it’s time to get cooking.

Chef Brandon has brought a simple, fulfilling recipe you make the night before using your favorite cheese and jam combinations. Monte Cristo Breakfast Bake allows you to tailor the ingredients to your flavor favorites and use up the bread from spaghetti night. Let’s get breakfast started.

Appetizer, side dish, or the main show, Chef Brandon has brought you a cooking creation that does it all. Lobster stuffed mushrooms! We are loving this recipe because it is adaptable. Not a fan of lobster? Switch to chicken, steak, or tofu. You can add a little more zest with a Boursin cheese instead of the cream cheese. Any combo you choose, this is a must try recipe. Let’s get cooking.

Something sweet for your sweetie, or just to surprise your friends and family with your dessert skills! Chef Brandon brings you a pink raspberry cheesecake mousse. Oh yeah! Our taste buds are smiling already. This recipe is adaptable for your favorite fruits. Not a raspberry fan, try strawberry or blueberry. Whatever your fruit fancy is this will become a go-to dessert for all your events.

Did someone say pudding? We did! Everyone should be able to enjoy bread pudding, so Chef Brandon has crafted a Maple Pecan Vegan Bread Pudding recipe sure to impress!

Winter is near and that means soup season! There’s something so warming and satisfying about a homemade soup after an afternoon of winter adventures. Chef Brandon has outdone himself with an Italian Sausage, Kale, and Bean Soup recipe. This recipe has a lot of quick steps, but it is worth it when you get a whiff of it simmering in the Dutch oven.

Some guests like appetizers and some like the desserts but this Cooking Creations recipe will have them singing PO-TAT-OES! Mashed Potato Casserole is a game changer and the perfect twist for the holidays.

Fall is here and it’s time for holiday treats! A couple fall ingredients, chocolate and pumpkin, are perfect together to make a show stopping dessert. Chef Brandon brings you a Chocolate Pumpkin Pound Cake in four simple steps.

Chef Brandon twists your favorite potato skins into a bite-sized gourmet treat. Packed with flavor, these bites are perfect for gatherings and tailgate parties. Let’s dive into another Cooking Creations favorite.

It’s a classic for all the right reasons and when it’s done right there won’t be a smear left in the bowl! Homemade guacamole step-by-step.

Chef Brandon mixes up the sauce and toppings to create a new twist on a family favorite –  Crispy Onion, Mushroom, and Steak Pizza.

Bacon is always a great idea, especially when Chef Brandon puts his twist on it. This simple recipe brings the heat and sweet to your breakfast favorite.

Do you really want to impress your dinner guests but are not confident in your baking skills? Bread pudding is the perfect place to start. Bread pudding is sweet, creamy and very versatile. Chef Brandon explains that you can use fresh, day-old or stale bread making this dessert not only delicious but a great way to utilize your pantry! Not a fan of blueberries? Try strawberries, peaches, or another favorite. Now that your mind is racing with possibilities to get started.

From summer picnics to tailgating, slaws are a must have and are so easy to change up to use seasonally fresh ingredients and flavors. Chef Brandon and Chef Tammy have teamed together to create a fruity and nutty summer slaw ready in just two steps.

A healthy Peruvian dish with so much flavor is Ceviche! Traditionally made with raw fresh fish or shrimp, this traditional dish can make some new cooks wary of attempting so Chef Brandon has crafted an introductory ceviche recipe. This first step recipe will have you falling in love with ceviche and we are excited to learn how much you enjoy this one.

Heat up your deep fryer and get ready to be amazed! Not your average wings, with not your average flavoring!

Strawberries right off the vine are so juicy and flavorful it is a mesmerizing experience and makes us super excited for strawberry season this June! With so many local patches, you can find the freshest ingredients to indulge in. One of our favorite ways to use strawberries is a crumble. Crumbles are perfect for any after-dinner treat, coffee break, or the occasional breakfast.

This simple recipe will delight your senses and make a splash at any meal or cookout. Avocado, cheese, tomatoes, and peaches; what more could you need?

Hot summer days just got better with these boozy adult treats!

Spring is finally arriving and it’s the best time to start prepping your grill for all your spring and summer meals. Brats, steaks, and corn on the cob are great, but our Pineapple Salmon Skewers are full of flavor and just what your grilling rotation needs.

Creamy, spicy, and full of flavor. Chef Brandon brings a Creamy Sriracha Crab Salad to Cooking Creations. Also known as a Kani Salad, this recipe is a Japanese style salad that is quick and easy and pairs great with everything from burgers to filet mignon. So, grab a cutting board and let’s get started.

We love bruschetta and it’s a perfect appetizer for all those tasty tomatoes you grew, but sometimes it’s nice to mix it up! Chef Art twists the flavors of bruschetta into a delicious bruschetta chicken sandwich that’ll become a staple rotation in your dinner line-up. Grab your gardening gloves and let’s gather some ingredients.

Salads are so delicious but can get boring and repetitive. Here is a simple way to jazz up your salad and revive your love for them.

Perfect for your anniversary, birthday, or to just blow the socks off your guests. Give our Dry Aged Lamb Chop with Mint Chimichurri and Roasted Tri-Color Carrots recipe a try. Already intimidated? Don’t worry. Chef Philip has given us a step-by-step to creating this luxury dinner.

A perfect pick-me-up afternoon treat or a delicious way to enjoy coffee and dessert! This simple recipe can be tailored to your tastes. Want dark chocolate? Sounds great. Need a little more oomph of espresso? You got it. Chef Michael shows you how to rule the dessert game with his chocolate coffee truffles on Cooking Creations.

Summer is here and so is the abundance of fresh fruit. There are so many dessert recipes using fresh fruit we could go on all day. Today however, we are going tropical with grilled pineapple! But won’t grilling dry it out? Not at all. This simple, quick recipe adds a complexity of rich flavors into a perfect sweet treat.

Southwest Michigan has an abundance of beautiful orchards to cruise through on a lovely summer’s day. Using fresh, local ingredients when cooking gives your dishes extra flavor and using fruit in your entrees adds an extra level of excitement for your taste buds. Today we are creating a pairing of salmon with fruit and a dash of spice, Coconut Crusted Salmon with a Peach Chili Sauce.

Quick and tasty; that’s just what this dish is. Blackened Salmon Tacos with Pineapple Salsa is great for evenings on the patio. Since salmon cooks fast, you won’t be stuck at the cooktop while the rest of the guests are sipping on margaritas and cervezas. There are only four steps, so let’s get started!

Cooking Creations with Chef Brandon is thrilled to have summer just around the corner and to celebrate the warming season with great summer recipes. One of the best parts of summer in Southwest Michigan and Northern Indiana is all the fresh fruit available! Enjoy a day of picking at a local grove or pick up fresh ingredients from the farmers market for the best tasting salads. Side salad for a party or a main entrée for any day of the week, the Strawberry Spinach Salad will have your taste buds basking in flavorful delight.

Grilling season has arrived, and pickled red onions are just the topping your taste buds have been missing! Burgers, hotdogs, tacos and more, it is as simple as 1,2,3! Let’s get started.