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    Home » Roundups

    Restaurant Quality Meals On A Budget

    Published: Mar 11, 2025 by bobbieblue

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    With simple ingredients you can easily make restaurant quality meals at home even when on a budget. This collection of dinner recipes focuses on herbs and everyday ingredients to highlight a special main course and make it restaurant worthy.

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    Try a coffee rubbed steak that is perfectly seasoned with fresh ground coffee beans and a few spices you probably have in your pantry or crab legs that are cooked with lemon, butter and a few spices. So the next time you want to impress for a special occasion, skip the over-priced meal at the restaurant and plan a special menu at home with these basic yet delicious dinner recipes.

    Coffee Rubbed Steak

    Pan-grilled steak with asparagus on the side served in a plate.
    Photo Credit: Xoxo Bella

    Looking for ways to elevate your date night ideas? Try this easy recipe that will definitely up your game. It's a fresh take on your steak.

    Get the Recipe: Coffee Rubbed Steak

    Connecticut Lobster Roll

    Lobster Rolls with chips and lemon on the side.
    Photo Credit: Garlic & Zest

    Lobster rolls are definitely worth traveling to New England for. But we can all agree that traveling can be a pain on our wallets. Nevertheless, you can always enjoy them in the comfort of your own home and munch on them while the warm summer days go by. Don't forget the cold lemonade!

    Get the Recipe: Connecticut Lobster Roll

    Chargrilled Oysters

    Chargrilled oysters with a lemon on the side, served in a plate.
    Photo Credit: Garlic & Zest

    Wow your guests and serve this irresistible dish as the perfect appetizer at your next gathering with family and friends. Just like the legendary ones from New Orleans, it's truly a must-try that will leave everyone craving more!

    Get the Recipe: Chargrilled Oysters

    Pan Seared Scallops over Spinach Pesto Pasta

    Pesto pasta topped with pan fried scallops served in a plate and a fork.
    Photo Credit: Garlic & Zest

    You must! You really have to try this quick spinach pesto pasta with pan-seared scallops recipe. It is absolutely delicious, and I must say, it has a fancy restaurant-quality feel. You’ll definitely want to make this again!

    Get the Recipe: Pan Seared Scallops over Spinach Pesto Pasta

    Moroccan Spiced Salmon

    Moroccan Spiced Salmon served in a plate with rice and beans.
    Photo Credit: Blue's Best Life

    Seeking out diverse and flavorful dishes without splurging? Try this different take on your usual baked salmon recipe. It's really good, and you'll be glad you tried it!

    Get the Recipe: Moroccan Spiced Salmon

    Asian Barbecued Shrimp Salad

    Asian BBQ Shrimp Salad served in a plate.
    Photo Credit: Garlic & Zest

    Looking for a recipe to add to your weekly dinner go-to list? You should try making this fancy, gourmet-style Asian BBQ Shrimp Salad. It’s easy to make and definitely still within budget. One serving will never be enough—it’s that good!

    Get the Recipe: Asian Barbecued Shrimp Salad

    Sheet Pan Crab Legs

    Crab legs in a sheet pan, with lemons on the side.
    Photo Credit: Xoxo Bella

    Crabs aren't exactly cheap, and they can seem a bit intimidating to cook. But trust me, this recipe is perfect for those special occasions or holidays when you want to make things feel extra special. It's super easy and straightforward to make. Totally worth it!

    Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Crab Legs

    Ahi Tuna Nicoise Salad Recipe

    A bowl of Nicoise Salad with Ahi Tuna.
    Photo Credit: Healthy Fitness Meals

    If you’re looking for a quick, filling, and healthy meal after a long day of work, give this fresh take on your salad a try. It’s seriously perfect!

    Get the Recipe: Ahi Tuna Nicoise Salad Recipe

    Seafood Paella with Mussels, Shrimp and Chorizo

    Seafood Paella in a pan with lemons quarters on the side.
    Photo Credit: Xoxo Bella

    Hola! Feeling a little festive? Why not give this paella recipe a try? It’s super easy to follow, and even a beginner can pull it off! Perfect for special occasions, and it tastes just like the real deal from Spain.

    Get the Recipe: Seafood Paella with Mussels, Shrimp and Chorizo

    Grilled Rack of Lamb with Garlic Herb Crust

    Grilled Rack of Lamb served in a plate.
    Photo Credit: Garlic & Zest

    A rack of lamb may sound fancy, but there's no reason not to enjoy it! Save it for those special occasions and try this simple recipe—it’s sure to create an unforgettable dinner with your loved ones.

    Get the Recipe: Grilled Rack of Lamb with Garlic Herb Crust

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    Hi, I'm Bobbie! Welcome to Blue's Best Life. I'm a self-taught cook that loves to cook wholesome meals while still enjoying a truly decadent dessert, because there is always room for a little something sweet!

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