The Chopping Block Cooking Blog

Brandade: Your New Favorite Dip

I remember first trying brandade when I was in culinary school and experiencing a moment of euphoria. Brandade is a Mediterranean dip consisting of pureed potatoes, salt cod, garlic and olive oil, ...

French Seasoning Salt is Back by Popular Demand

French Seasoning Salt is one of the most popular retail products we have ever carried at The Chopping Block. The miracle seasoning in the blue jar as it's known among our students is the perfect ...

A Salmon Hater becomes a Salmon Lover

I had so many food issues as a kid. Most of them are behind me now, except when it comes to coconut. I have to admit to still holding on to my strong dislike for it. As hard as I’ve tried, its ...

Tuscan Salmon: A Weeknight Family Favorite

I was tasked with making dinner the other night, and had absolutely no idea what to prepare. I had fresh salmon to work with, which was a step in the right direction, but when I opened my fridge ...

A Salsa of a Different Style

Salsa is America’s most popular condiment and pico de gallo is the fresh version. Both have a myriad of uses, with tortilla chips munched out of hand and as a condiment for Mexican food being the ...

Achiote Grilled Fish in Banana Leaves

The weather has been so stellar for cooking outdoors, and because we’re trying to spend as much time as possible relaxing and cooking outside these days, my family and I are trying to expand our ...

The Easiest Way to Grill Fish and Seafood

It’s summer, and I’ve been putting the grill to good use. In Chicago, we need to seize each day of our short grilling season! I want meals that are simple and fast, yet also healthy and delicious. ...

Take Summer Up a Notch with Fish

It’s finally summer, the season for all sorts of celebrations. If for no other reason than I-just-want-to-feel-like-myself-again, I think livin’ it up a little and getting a bit fancy “just ...

Simply Satisfying Salmon Marinades

Salmon is one of my favorite fish options whenever I go out to dinner. Normally, I am quite satisfied with my selection, and I am often left wanting more but when I went out to eat a couple of ...

The Benefits of Salmon Skin

While the world seems to be always looking for the next big health trend and hidden nutrient gems, one thing that seems to stick around are Omega-3s. As we start moving into the cooler weather here ...