DINNER CLUB RECAP: Cinco de Mayo: Tilapia Tortas

I really was hoping to get rid of our extra gin on you guys when I realized that, crud, british pub theme for cinco de mayo just wasn't going to cut it!! But, what type of mexican dishes have we not done lately? I decided to go the torta route: instead of meat, however, I used tilapia that I lightly dredged in flour (no egg) and a bit of cumin and red pepper, just to create a thin crust. I pan fried and then threw in the oven to finish under the broiler. Layered in our tortas were vegetarian refried beans, crumbly white mexican cheese, a guacamole salsa that I made, and cilantro. Turned out ok, but I think the favorite was the fresh corn salad- to make, cook your corn in boiling water for 3 minutes, drain, and immerse in a cold water bath. Cut kernels off and mix with 1 cup of red onions, 5 tbsp. cider vinegar, 5 tbsp. of olive oil, 3/4 tsp. salt, black pepper, and tons of cilantro. I also put a couple of sliced pieces of nopales (cactus) on the top of mine for decoration. Dessert was also an easy layered tiramisu that I made with marbled pound cake. Recipe available upon demand. Drinks were served in martini glasses: lime juice, chambord, margarita mix, and silver tequila. Salud!

DINNER CLUB RECAP: Wet Burritos and Apple Pie Enchiladas

I made burritos and poured sauce on top. People got to pick their toppings. That is all. Lisa here- Ray's burritos were awesome. Everyone loved them- we all got forms to fill out with what we wanted inside, choice of tortillas, including spinach, and yummy enchilada sauce, sour cream, and cheese on top. I'm getting hungry just thinking about them! The dessert was easy for all you looking for another easy dessert recipe- use smaller tortillas, fill them with canned apple pie filling, melted butter, sugar, and cinnamon, roll like a tortilla, and bake for 15 minutes or so. Serve with ice cream on top and an apple chip. Ole'!

DINNER: El Novillero

El Novillero's Web site

Still the best Mexican food in Sacramento.

DINNER: La Fiesta Mexican

We have been going to this place for years now to satisfy our craving for authentic Mexican food. When you need a night to throw healthy out the window and relax with some chips, salsa and margarita's this place fits the bill. Located right on 65th street, this spot offers no-frills, friendly and quick service. They do have a small bar so if you are in the mood to watch a game with a plate of nachos it's doable here. Claire loves the decor and recently discovered the chicklet machine by the front door. I ALWAYS have the veggie burrito served "wet" and I devour it each time. Full of beans, Mexican rice, guac, and all the extras, it's a steal at only $5.99. Chris has been known to get the steak burrito or quesadilla and has usually been happy with the very generous portion. The menu is pretty big, with all the items that come to mind - enchiladas, combo plates, tacos, you get it. It seems to be a family run business, which is always nice to support in these hard times. So the next time you are in East Sacto and want to grub on some good Mexican, check out La Fiesta Mexican.

DINNER: Chevy's (Howe Avenue)

Chevy's Web site

I know what you're thinking Chevy's....fine dining experience? Well, when you have a two year old, a long Thursday at work, a coupon (buy one entree at regular price and receive the second for $3.99) and a need for a margarita, this is the place! It's quick, simple and there are no surprises. Total cost, including tax and tip, for the three of us was $40. Ate Once we sit down, we order a side plate of rice and beans for my little one and it arrives in three minutes. My wife and I order our Corona or Margarita. I ate the steak burrito...nothing to get excited about...and my wife had the sizzling shrimp salad which was terrific. Now I'm not saying I would go to Chevy's for my fifth wedding anniversary (unless I'm looking for a kick in the a#% from my wife) but we've been receving these coupons in the mail and with our two year old, it makes a lot of economic sense in these times.