Main Dishes

Crispy Baked Ranch Drumsticks, Ranch Margarita, and Astrophysics for People in a Hurry

July 26, 2025
editor
For a delightful culinary and literary evening, pair the Crispy Baked Ranch Drumsticks with "Astrophysics for People in a Hurry" by Neil deGrasse Tyson and a refreshing Ranch Margarita. The savory and crispy flavors of the ranch-seasoned drumsticks complement the intriguing and accessible exploration of the cosmos offered by Tyson's book. Meanwhile, the tangy and herbaceous Ranch Margarita enhances the meal's flavor profile and adds a fun twist that resonates with the engaging nature of the book. This pairing offers a perfect blend of taste and thought-provoking science, making for an enriching experience.
Crispy Baked Ranch Drumsticks

Ingredients

  • 8 chicken drumsticks
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning mix (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  • Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top. This helps the drumsticks cook evenly and get extra crispy.
  • Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine the olive oil and ranch seasoning mix. Add the drumsticks to the bowl and toss until they are well coated. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
  • Prepare the Coating: In another bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  • Coat the Drumsticks: Take each marinated drumstick and roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it is evenly coated. Place the coated drumsticks on the prepared wire rack.
  • Bake the Drumsticks: Bake the drumsticks in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown and crispy. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  • Serve: Once cooked, remove the drumsticks from the oven and let them cool slightly. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your crispy baked ranch drumsticks with your favorite dipping sauce or a side of vegetables.

Astrophysics for People in a Hurry

Astrophysics for People in a Hurry

A quick primer on essential concepts in astrophysics, presented with Neil deGrasse Tyson's trademark wit and clarity.
Over a year on the New York Times bestseller list and more than a million copies sold. The essential universe, from our most celebrated and beloved astrophysicist. What is the nature of space and time? How do we fit within the universe? How does the universe fit within us? There’s no better guide through these mind-expanding questions than acclaimed astrophysicist and best-selling author Neil deGrasse Tyson. But today, few of us have time to contemplate the cosmos. So Tyson brings the universe down to Earth succinctly and clearly, with sparkling wit, in tasty chapters consumable anytime and anywhere in your busy day. While you wait for your morning coffee to brew, for the bus, the train, or a plane to arrive, Astrophysics for People in a Hurry will reveal just what you need to be fluent and ready for the next cosmic headlines: from the Big Bang to black holes, from quarks to quantum mechanics, and from the search for planets to the search for life in the universe.

Discussion Questions

  • What are the most intriguing cosmic phenomena discussed in the book, and why do they capture the imagination?
  • How does the book simplify complex astrophysical concepts for the general reader?
  • What role does humor play in Neil deGrasse Tyson's writing, and how does it affect your understanding of the material?
  • In what ways does the book inspire curiosity about the universe and its mysteries?
  • How does Tyson's background as an astrophysicist lend credibility to the topics discussed in the book?
  • Discuss how Neil deGrasse Tyson addresses misconceptions about astrophysics in the book.
  • What is the significance of understanding our place in the universe, as suggested by Tyson?
  • Which chapter or concept resonated most with you, and why?
  • How does the book compare to other popular science books you've read?
  • In what way does the book address the future of space exploration and our understanding of the cosmos?
Authors: Neil deGrasse Tyson
ISBN: 9780393609394
Publisher: W. W. Norton & Company
Published Date: 2017-05-02

Ranch Margarita

Ranch Margarita
A zesty and refreshing cocktail that combines the classic flavors of a margarita with a hint of herbaceous ranch. Perfect for pairing with crispy ranch-seasoned dishes.

Ingredients

  • 2 oz tequila
  • 1 oz lime juice
  • 0.5 oz triple sec
  • 0.5 oz ranch dressing
  • 0.5 oz simple syrup

Instructions

Mixing:

  • In a shaker, combine tequila, lime juice, triple sec, ranch dressing, and simple syrup.
  • Shake well with ice.

Serving:

  • Strain into a glass filled with ice.
  • Garnish with a lime wheel or a sprig of cilantro.
  • Serve immediately.