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Category: Seafood

One Pan Gingery Coconut Noodles with Shrimp and Greens

One Pan Gingery Coconut Noodles with Shrimp and Greens

One Pan Gingery Coconut Noodles with Shrimp and Greens

 

6 ounces wide rice noodles (aka rice linguine or rice sticks)

2 T. coconut oil or neutral oil, such as grapeseed, sunflower, or safflower

6 scallions, thinly sliced (white and green parts separated)

2 jalapenos, seeded if you like: 1 minced, 1 thinly sliced

1/2 tsp. kosher salt, divided, plus more as needed

4 garlic cloves, finely grated or minced, divided

2 T. finely grated or minced fresh ginger, divided

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

1 (13.5-ounce) can unsweetened full-fat coconut milk

2 T. fish sauce, plus more to taste

1 lime

5 ounces (about 5 cups) baby spinach

1 C. chopped fresh cilantro or basil leaves (or a combination), plus more for garnish

 

Put the rice noodles in a large bowl and add enough hot tap water to cover. Set aside while prepping the other ingredients. In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Stir in the scallion whites and minced jalapeno (save the scallion greens and jalapeno slices for garnish). Add a large pinch of salt and cook until everything is starting to brown, about 5 minutes. Stir half the garlic and half the ginger into the pan (save the remaining garlic and ginger for the coconut milk). Cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the shrimp to the pan along with 1/4 tsp. of the salt and saute until the shrimp turns pink and is just cooked through, 3 to 5 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the shrimp to a plate and tent with foil to keep it warm (leave any solids not clinging to the shrimp in the pan). Stir the coconut milk and fish sauce into the pan and add the remaining garlic and ginger. Grate the zest from the lime into the pan. (Cut the zested lime into wedges to save for serving.) Bring the coconut milk to a gentle simmer and cook for 2 minutes to blend the flavors. Drain the noodles and rinse with cold water. Add the noodles to the skillet and toss well. Stir in the spinach and remaining 1/4 tsp. salt and cook, covered, until the noodles are al dente, and the spinach is wilted, 7 to 9 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Quick Salmon & Couscous with Cilantro Vinaigrette

Quick Salmon & Couscous with Cilantro Vinaigrette

Quick Salmon & Couscous with Cilantro Vinaigrette

 

1 (10-ounce) box plain couscous (1 1/2 cups)

1 (10-ounce) salmon fillet, skin removed and cut in 2 pieces

1/2 tsp. sumac

Salt and pepper

3 T. olive oil

1/4 C. cilantro, chopped

2 scallions, thinly sliced

2 T. lemon juice

 

Cook couscous according to package directions. Season salmon with sumac, salt, and pepper. Heat 1 T. oil in a nonstick pan over medium high heat. Add salmon and cook 3 to 4 minutes on each side. Combine cilantro, scallions, lemon juice, and remaining 2 T. olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve salmon over couscous, drizzled with vinaigrette.

Egg Roulade with Leeks, Parmesan, Lobster, and Sherry Butter

Egg Roulade with Leeks, Parmesan, Lobster, and Sherry Butter

Egg Roulade with Leeks, Parmesan, Lobster, and Sherry Butter

 

8 eggs

2 C. plus 2 T. heavy cream

1 tsp. salt

2 T. extra-virgin olive oil

3 large leeks washed and thinly sliced

1 8-ounce package cream cheese

1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce

Juice from ¼ lemon

1 stick plus 3 T. butter

1½ C. shredded Parmesan cheese

½ C. medium-dry sherry

16 ounces fresh cooked lobster meat, cut into small chunks

1 10-ounce package baby spinach, washed and dried

Fresh chopped chives for garnish

Fresh cracked pepper

 

Preheat the oven to 350°. Grease a rimmed heavy-duty half-sheet pan with butter or vegetable oil, then line with parchment paper and grease the parchment, making sure to press it flat to the surface of the pan. Leave at least an inch overhang. In a blender, mix the eggs, 2 C. of cream, and ½ tsp. salt on high speed for 4 to 5 seconds. Pour the mixture into the lined baking sheet. Bake until you begin to see the surface of the egg start to lightly brown, about 25–30 minutes. Remove and let cool. While egg is cooling, heat the olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Sauté the leeks, covered, until soft, about 10 to 12 minutes. Add the cream cheese, Worcestershire sauce, the remaining 2 T. of cream, lemon juice, and the remaining ½ tsp. of salt and stir. When the cream cheese is thoroughly incorporated, add 3 T. of butter, mix in and remove from heat. Let cool for a few minutes. Dollop small amounts of the leek filling onto the egg. Using an offset spatula, carefully spread the mixture over the entire egg sponge, trying not to tear the egg as it is very delicate. Sprinkle Parmesan over the filling. With the short edge of the pan closest to you using the parchment as a guide, roll the egg up onto itself (like a jelly roll) until you end up with the egg seam on the underside of the roll. Keep the egg covered with the parchment after rolling as it will help keep it moist. Cover the entire roll with aluminum foil and bake for another 20 minutes. While the egg bakes, melt the remaining stick of butter in a pan with the sherry and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing much of the alcohol to burn off. Then add the lobster, lower the heat, and cover. Simmer for 3–4 minutes. To serve, place a pile of fresh baby spinach on a plate. Slice the roulade into 6 slices, layer onto the spinach, and top with a couple spoonsful of the lobster butter. Garnish with fresh chives.

Lasagna della Vigilia

Lasagna della Vigilia

Lasagna della Vigilia

 

4 ounces unsalted butter

6 salt-packed anchovies, soaked in water for 24 hours, deboned and minced OR ½ can of oil-packed anchovies filets in oil, drained and minced

4 large cloves garlic, finely minced or pressed

1 pound fresh lasagna noodles (if fresh pasta is not available, a very thin dried lasagna sheet makes a good substitute; the Barilla brand is a good choice)

2 ounces finely grated Parmigiano-Reggiano

¼ C. coarsely chopped parsley

Freshly ground pepper

 

Melt the butter in a skillet and add the anchovies and garlic. Warm everything over medium-low heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally (the anchovies will dissolve into the butter). Cook the pasta al dente in a large pot of boiling salted water. Fresh pasta will need a minute or less to cook through, dried noodles may take as long as ten minutes. Drain the noodles and gently toss them with the butter mixture in the skillet—be careful as you don’t want to tear the noodles. Sprinkle the cheese over the pasta, adding a little pasta cooking water to keep things “saucy.” Give the pasta many generous grindings of pepper and sprinkle on the parsley. Gently toss to coat the noodles with these ingredients. Serve on warmed plates with additional cheese and pepper on the side.

Cat’s Ear and Clam Linguine

Cat’s Ear and Clam Linguine

Cat’s Ear and Clam Linguine

 

1 pound linguine

1/4 C. butter

4 cloves garlic, minced

2 shallots, coarsely chopped

1/2 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes

3 T. good salami, diced

2 pounds small fresh clams, scrubbed

2/3 C. dry white wine

2 C. cat’s ear leaves, chopped to 1-inch pieces

Sea salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

 

Cook the linguine in boiling water until it’s al dente and set aside. While the pasta is cooking, in a large skillet over medium heat, sauté in butter the garlic, shallots, red pepper flakes, and salami until shallots are softened. Add clams and wine and bring to a simmer. Cover the pan and simmer until the clams open, about 5 minutes. Add the cat’s ear and al dente pasta. Cook on medium heat until the pasta has absorbed almost all of the remaining liquid. Add salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately

Skillet Shrimp Scampi with Orzo and Tomatoes

Skillet Shrimp Scampi with Orzo and Tomatoes

Skillet Shrimp Scampi with Orzo and Tomatoes

 

2 T. unsalted butter

2 T. extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for serving

4 garlic cloves, finely grated or minced

12 C. dry white wine or stock

1 3/4 tsp. kosher salt, divided

1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

1/8 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes, plus more for serving

1 pound large or extra-large shrimp, peeled and deveined

1 C. orzo

1 C. halved cherry tomatoes

1/2 C. chopped fresh parsley leaves and tender stems

1 lemon, halved

Flaky sea salt, for serving

 

In a large sauté pan or skillet, melt the butter with the oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the wine, 1/2 tsp. of the kosher salt, the black pepper, and red pepper flakes, and bring to a simmer. Let the wine reduce by half, about 2 minutes. Add the shrimp and sauté until they just turn pink, 2 to 4 minutes, depending upon their size. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the shrimp to a plate and tent with foil to keep it warm. Add 2 C. of water to the skillet and bring to a simmer. Stir in the orzo and 1 tsp. of the kosher salt. Cover the pan and let the orzo simmer over medium-low heat until it is just tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, 12 to 15 minutes, stirring once or twice. If the pan dries out toward the end, add a little more water.  Return the shrimp to the pan, along with the tomatoes and the remaining 3/4 tsp. kosher salt and cook for 2 minutes. Stir in the parsley and then squeeze in the juice from half the lemon, gently tossing to combine. Cut the remaining lemon half into wedges for serving. Serve the orzo sprinkled with flaky sea salt and more red pepper flakes, if you like, and drizzled with a little oil, with the lemon wedges on the side

Seared Miso-Sesame Shrimp and Asparagus

Seared Miso-Sesame Shrimp and Asparagus

Seared Miso-Sesame Shrimp and Asparagus

 

3 T. white or yellow miso

2 T. toasted sesame oil

1 T. grated fresh ginger

2 tsp. honey

Freshly ground black pepper

1½ pounds shrimp, peeled and deveined

2 T. extra-virgin olive oil

1 pound asparagus, trimmed

Kosher salt

2 garlic cloves, finely grated or minced

Lime wedges, for serving

2 scallions, thinly sliced, for serving

Sesame seeds, for serving

 

In a large bowl, stir together the miso, sesame oil, ginger, honey, ¼ tsp. pepper, and the shrimp. Let it sit while you prepare the asparagus. In a 12-inch skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the asparagus, sprinkle lightly with salt and generously with pepper, cover the pot, and cook, shaking the pan occasionally, until it is bright green but still firm, 3 to 4 minutes. Transfer the asparagus to a serving platter. Add the shrimp and its marinade to the pan and cook until the shrimp is pink and tails curl in, about 5 minutes, flipping halfway through. Stir in the garlic and more pepper during the last minute, letting it become fragrant, then squeeze a lime wedge over the top. Taste and add a little salt, if needed. Transfer the shrimp to the platter with the asparagus and toss well. Serve topped with scallions and sesame seeds, with more lime wedges on the side.

Miso-Glazed Salmon with Roasted Sugar Snap Peas

Miso-Glazed Salmon with Roasted Sugar Snap Peas

Miso-Glazed Salmon with Roasted Sugar Snap Peas

 

Sweet and savory miso-glazed fish is one of the easiest dinners out there, especially when you pair it with sugar snap peas, roasted until tender on the very same pan. Rice would be the obvious side dish here, but the Buttery No-Cook Couscous works equally well and gets you there even faster.

 

4 (6-ounce) skin-on salmon fillets, about 1 inch thick

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

1 1/2 T. maple syrup, agave, or honey

1 T. white or red miso

1 T. fresh lime juice, plus lime wedges for serving

2 tsp. soy sauce

1 tsp. fish sauce (optional; you can use more soy sauce instead)

1 garlic clove, grated

1 pound sugar snap peas, trimmed

2 T. extra-virgin olive oil

Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes

1/4 C. coarsely chopped fresh cilantro, both leaves and tender stems

 

Heat the oven to 4009F and, if you like, line a sheet pan with a silicone liner or parchment paper (helpful when it’s time to clean up). Season salmon fillets with V2 tsp. each of salt and black pepper and place them on a plate. In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, miso, lime juice, soy sauce, fish sauce (if using), and garlic. Pour the mixture on top of the salmon and gently massage the marinade all over the fish. Let the fish marinate at room temperature while you start the peas. In a medium bowl, toss the sugar snap peas with the oil, red pepper flakes, and a big pinch each of salt and black pepper. Spread the peas on the sheet pan. Roast the peas for 5 minutes. 4. Toss the peas, then push them over to one side of the sheet pan so there’s room for the salmon. Add the salmon to the pan, skin side down. Continue roasting until the salmon is cooked through and opaque on top and the sugar snap peas are crisp-tender, 10 to 12 minutes longer. Sprinkle with cilantro and serve with lime wedges for squeezing.  Green beans, broccolini, or cherry tomatoes can stand in for the sugar snap peas. Or try another kind of fish. Just look for pieces that are about 1 inch thick, or you may have to adjust the timing slightly.

Spicebush-Marinated Shrimp Skewers

Spicebush-Marinated Shrimp Skewers

Spicebush-Marinated Shrimp Skewers

 

Spicebush twigs or bamboo skewers

1 tsp. spicebush berries

½ tsp. ground cumin

2 T. low-sodium soy sauce (or 1½ T. regular soy sauce)

1 T. extra-virgin olive oil

1 lb. shrimp, preferably jumbo or extra large, peeled, tails left on

 

If you’d like to skewer the shrimp on spicebush twigs, find an established spicebush shrub (or shrubs) that can stand to lose a number of thin branches. Look for relatively straight twigs that are sturdy and brown, not green, and avoid twigs that have berries on them (that way wildlife can feed on the berries later). The twigs should snap right off the shrub. Strip off the leaves and any smaller twigs. Save the leaves to dry for spicebush tea, if you like. If using bamboo skewers, soak in warm water for at least 30 minutes. Grind the spicebush in a mortar and pestle, or use the flat of your knife to crush the berries against a cutting board, then mince them until powdery. Combine the ground spicebush, cumin, soy sauce, olive oil, and shrimp in a medium bowl. Refrigerate for 30 minutes. Preheat the grill to medium-high. As the grill heats, thread the shrimp on the twigs or skewers. This step will take a little longer if you’re using spicebush twigs, since the twigs aren’t straight as arrows. It helps to snip the end of the twig on the bias with kitchen shears to make a pointy tip for skewering. Grill the shrimp until no longer opaque and firm when you press one with your finger, about 4 minutes per side (timing will depend on the heat of the grill and the size of your shrimp). Serve immediately.

Maple BBQ Salmon with Brown Butter Couscous

Maple BBQ Salmon with Brown Butter Couscous

Maple BBQ Salmon with Brown Butter Couscous

 

2 pounds salmon filets

1 T. brown (or maple!) sugar

1 tsp. garlic powder

1 tsp. smoked paprika

½ tsp. salt

½ tsp. freshly ground black pepper

¼ tsp. cumin

2 to 3 T. maple syrup

 

1 T. unsalted butter

1 C. uncooked pearl couscous

1 ¼ C. chicken or vegetable stock or water

pinch of salt

2 T. unsalted butter

1 garlic clove, minced

 

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Place the salmon on a baking sheet. In a small bowl, whisk together the sugar, garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper and cumin. Sprinkle it all over the salmon filets. Drizzle each filet with the maple syrup and use a spoon to kind of “spread” it all over the filet. Roast for 10 to 15 minutes, until the salmon just flakes with a fork. If desired, you can brush with a little more maple syrup when it comes out of the oven. Top with chopped chives. Serve immediately with brown butter couscous! Heat a large saucepan over medium heat and add the butter. Stir in the couscous until coated, then cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring, until the couscous is slightly toasty. Add in the stock and salt and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce to a simmer and cover. Cook for 15 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed. While the couscous is cooking, heat a small saucepan over medium heat and add the butter. Cook, whisking often, until brown bits appear on the bottom of the pan. Remove the butter from the heat and stir in the garlic cloves. Once the couscous is finished, drizzle with the garlic brown butter. Toss and serve.

Shrimp and Creamy Goat Cheese Grits

Shrimp and Creamy Goat Cheese Grits

Shrimp and Creamy Goat Cheese Grits

 

4 cups water

1 cup stone-ground grits

4 ounces goat cheese

1/4 cup parmesan cheese

2 T. unsalted butter, divided

4 slices bacon, chopped

1 pound medium shrimp (about 30), peeled

Freshly ground black pepper

10 button mushrooms, thinly sliced

1 garlic clove, finely chopped

1 large tomato, chopped

1/2 cup chicken broth

1 T. fresh lemon juice

1/2 tsp. hot sauce

4 green onions, thinly sliced

 

In a medium saucepan, bring water to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat to low and whisk in grits. Cook, whisking frequently, until grits are tender and creamy, 20 to 30 minutes. Whisk in goat cheese, parmesan, and 1 T. butter. Cover and keep warm. Cook bacon in a large skillet until crisp, about 10 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer bacon to a paper towel-lined plate; set aside. Reserve bacon fat in skillet. Add shrimp to bacon fat and cook, turning once, until bright pink, about 2 minutes. Transfer shrimp to a plate with a slotted spoon. Lower heat to medium; add mushrooms, garlic and tomato to skillet and cook 5 minutes. Add chicken broth, and scrape bottom of skillet with a wooden spoon. Return shrimp to skillet along with lemon juice, remaining butter, and hot sauce and cook, stirring frequently, until sauce thickens, about 1 minute. Divide grits between 4 bowls; top each with shrimp mixture. Top with bacon and green onions.

Shrimp Tostadas with Lime Crema  

Shrimp Tostadas with Lime Crema  

Shrimp Tostadas with Lime Crema

 

3/4 cup sour cream

1 medium lime, zested and juiced

1/2 tsp. honey

1/2 tsp. kosher salt

2 Tbsp. olive oil, plus 1 Tbsp. for shrimp

4 to 8 corn tortillas

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

1/2 tsp. paprika

1/4 tsp. cumin

Pinch cayenne

1 large avocado, cubed

Chopped fresh cilantro

Salt and black pepper to taste

 

In a small bowl, whisk together the sour cream, lime zest, lime juice, honey, and salt. Set aside. Line a plate with paper towels. In a small frying pan, heat 2 Tbsp. of oil. When shimmering hot, fry the corn tortillas, one at a time, until crispy, golden, and puffed, about two minutes per side. Drain on paper towels. Heat the remaining 1 Tbsp. of oil in a large non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat. Meanwhile, sprinkle the shrimp with paprika, cumin, cayenne, salt, and black pepper. Add the seasoned shrimp to the hot pan and sauté until the shrimp have coiled and turned from gray to pink, about 4 minutes. Remove from the heat. To serve, place a tortilla on a plate, slather with lime crema, top with shrimp and avocado, and sprinkle with chopped cilantro. Serve with corn and bean salad and additional lime crema on the side. Dig in.

Seared Scallops with Shaved Fennel Cucumber and Grapefruit

Seared Scallops with Shaved Fennel Cucumber and Grapefruit

Seared Scallops with Shaved Fennel Cucumber and Grapefruit

 

1 Ruby Red grapefruit

1 T. extra-virgin olive oil, divided

3/4 pound large sea scallops

1/2 tsp. coarse salt, divided

Freshly ground pepper

3 ounces English cucumber, thinly shaved crosswise on a mandoline (3/4 cup)

1 T. fresh lemon juice

1 T. chopped fresh chives

1 tsp. finely chopped fresh tarragon leaves

1/2 large fennel bulb (5 1/2 ounces), cut in half (root end trimmed but left intact to keep fennel together)

 

Finely grate enough grapefruit rind to yield 1/2 tsp. zest. Peel grapefruit with a paring knife, removing all pith. Working over a bowl, cut three-quarters of the grapefruit segments from the membranes, cut into bite-size pieces, and set aside. Squeeze juice of remaining grapefruit segments into bowl (you should have 1/3 cup juice). Heat 1 tsp. oil in a nonstick sauté pan over medium-high heat. Pat scallops dry, sprinkle with 1/4 tsp. salt, and season with pepper. Sauté scallops until deep golden brown, about 3 minutes. Flip, and continue to cook until barely opaque all the way through, about 2 minutes more. Divide scallops between 2 plates, and loosely tent with foil. Reduce heat to low and add grapefruit juice. Cook, stirring and scraping up browned bits, until reduced to 1 T., 2 to 3 minutes. Pour sauce over scallops. Combine cucumber, lemon juice, remaining 2 tsp. oil, the grapefruit zest and pieces, chives, tarragon, and remaining 1/4 tsp. salt in a bowl. Shave fennel into bowl, season with pepper, and toss gently to combine. Pile salad atop scallops.

Moules Marinieres (Sailor-Style Mussels)

Moules Marinieres (Sailor-Style Mussels)

Moules Marinieres (Sailor-Style Mussels)

 

5 T. unsalted butter, divided

3 T. extra-virgin olive oil, divided, plus more for bread

3 celery stalks, thinly sliced

3 medium onions, halved and thinly sliced

4 garlic cloves, minced

2 C. local white wine or Narragansett Beer, divided

3 C. (24 ounces) bottled clam juice

1 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

1 tsp. red chili flakes

Kosher or sea salt

6 pounds mussels, scrubbed and de-bearded*

1 C. diced roasted red peppers

2 T. chopped flat-leaf parsley

1 C. thinly chopped fresh scallions (for garnish)

Fresh focaccia or baguette, sliced, brushed with olive oil and lightly toasted

 

Heat 4 T. butter and 1 T. olive oil in a medium saucepot over medium heat. Add celery, onions and garlic. Stir well and sweat the vegetables until the onions are soft and translucent, approximately 5 minutes. Add 1 ½ C. white wine (or beer) and reduce by half (approximately 10 minutes). Add clam juice along with pepper and red chili flakes. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer 15 minutes. Taste for seasoning. In a separate large sauté pan, add 2 T. olive oil and heat over medium-high heat. When hot, add mussels and cover briefly to prevent oil from splattering, remove lid and sauté for 1–2 minutes. Add ½ C. wine (or beer) and diced red peppers. Reduce until a few T. of liquid remain. Add the prepared broth, and cover for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until all mussels are open. Add remaining 4 T. butter and chopped parsley and stir to incorporate. Divide mussels and broth among 6 warm shallow bowls, garnish with scallions and serve with plenty of toasted bread for dipping.

 

* Note: If mussel shells are slightly open, simply tap or press on the shell—after about 5 seconds, the shell should close. If not, the mussel is dead so discard it.

PNW Black Bean and Ginger Dungeness Crab

PNW Black Bean and Ginger Dungeness Crab

PNW Black Bean and Ginger Dungeness Crab

 

2 Dungeness crab, shell off (save shells), claws cracked and body chopped up into 2-inch pieces

2 cups cornstarch, for dusting and to make a slurry with 1 T.

3 cups peanut oil

1 1/2 T. rinsed fermented black beans, chopped

4 large slices bruised ginger

8 cloves garlic, thinly sliced

5 scallions, chopped into 2-inch pieces

1/4 cup shaoxing(cooking wine)

1 T. naturally brewed soy sauce

2 cups chicken stock

Salt and white pepper, to taste

Small pot cooked Chinese rice

 

In a large wok, bring peanut oil to high temperature. Dust the crab pieces with cornstarch and a little salt. Shallow fry the crab for only 1 to 2 minutes until the crab shells turn red. Drain on paper towels. Do the same with the 2 shells. Reserve oil and wipe wok clean. Add 2 T. oil back to the wok on high heat. Stir-fry the beans, ginger, garlic and scallions for 1 minute until soft. Add back the crab and deglaze with shaoxing and add soy and stock. Check for seasoning and bring to a boil. Thicken with the slurry and cook 30 more seconds. Serve immediately with the cooked shells. PLATING On a large oval, place the 2 shells down near both ends. Fill with hot rice. Mound the crab between the shells. Enjoy with your fingers. Can also serve with lemon finger bowls.

Scallops in a Sea of Herbs

Scallops in a Sea of Herbs

Scallops in a Sea of Herbs

 

2 T. sunflower oil

12 scallops

200g (7oz) mangetout (or snow peas)

4 spring onions (scallions), sliced on the angle

8 radishes, sliced

2 lemons, 1 juiced, 1 quartered

sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

A good half-handful each of:

green fennel leaves

coriander (cilantro) micros, or a few finely chopped coriander leaves

chive flowers, broken into florets

Korean mint leaves, finely chopped, plus a few flowers

You can choose a different profile with other herbs as desired, of course!

 

Place a frying pan over a high heat and add 1 T. of the oil. Season the scallops on one side. Once the pan is hot, place the scallops in the pan seasoned side down, following the numbers on a clock face, starting at 1 o’clock. Season the side facing upwards. Sear the scallops until caramelized, about 2-3 minutes. Use a spoon to turn them over in the order they were placed in the pan. Cook for a further 1-2 minutes, taking care not to overcook them. Do this in batches if you have a small pan. Remove the scallops to a plate and wipe the pan clean with kitchen paper. Add the rest of the oil to the pan and, once hot, stir-fry the mangetout, spring onions and the radishes for about a minute. Stir through the lemon juice and the herbs and return the scallops to the pan to regain a little heat. Season with salt and pepper and serve with lemon quarters.

Pan-Seared Scallops with Butternut Squash Puree

Pan-Seared Scallops with Butternut Squash Puree

Pan-Seared Scallops with Butternut Squash Puree

 

1 pounds large sea scallops (10 to 20 per pound)

2 pounds butternut squash

4 T. unsalted butter

¾ tsp. Curry Powder

2 T. vegetable oil

3 scallions

 

Remove and discard tendons from scallops, place on rimmed baking sheet lined with dish towel, and top with another towel. Blot moisture gently and let sit with towels for 10 minutes. Meanwhile, peel and seed squash, then cut into 1-inch chunks . Place squash in bowl, cover, and microwave until tender, 8 to 12 minutes, stirring halfway through cooking. Drain squash and transfer to food processor. Add 1 T. water, 1 T. butter, curry powder, and ¥2 tsp. salt and process until smooth, about 30 seconds; transfer to bowl and cover. Season scallops with salt and pepper. Heat 1 T. oil in 12-inch nonstick skillet over high heat until just smoking. Lay half of scallops in skillet in single layer and cook, without moving, until well browned, 1 1/2 to 2 minutes. Flip scallops and continue to cook until sides are firm and centers are opaque, 30 to 90 seconds; transfer to platter and tent with aluminum foil. Wipe out now-empty skillet with paper towels and repeat with remaining 1 T. oil and scallops. Thinly slice scallions. Add remaining 3 T. butter to now-empty skillet and cook over medium-low heat until melted and just starting to brown, about 30 seconds. Add scallions and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Pour sauce over scallops and serve with pureed squash.

Pasta with Anchovies and Tomato

Pasta with Anchovies and Tomato

Pasta with Anchovies and Tomato

 

12 ounces dried penne or other pasta

3 T. olive oil

1 T. butter

1 tsp. garlic powder

1 tsp. dried parsley

1/2 tsp. onion powder

4 anchovy fillets from a tin, chopped fine or mashed

One 29-ounce can crushed tomatoes

One 15-ounce can diced tomatoes, drained

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for the table, if desired)

 

Cook the pasta according to the package directions. In a medium-sized saucepan, slowly heat the oil and butter. When the butter has melted, stir in the garlic powder, parsley, and onion powder. After the spices have combined, add the anchovies and stir, cooking for about a minute. (The mixture will begin to look like a paste.) Add the tomatoes, stir, and simmer for a few minutes, until thoroughly heated. Pour the sauce over the pasta and toss to coat. Add the Parmesan cheese and toss to coat again. Serve with additional Parmesan cheese on the side, if desired.

Crispy Marinated Pan-Fried Fish and Mango Slaw

Crispy Marinated Pan-Fried Fish and Mango Slaw

Crispy Marinated Pan-Fried Fish and Mango Slaw

 

2 T. store-bought tamarind paste extract or 1 (4- by 1-inch) block of tamarind pulp

1 T. spiced ginger-garlic paste

sea salt

1 tsp. Kashmiri chili powder (or any mild chili powder)

1 tsp. garam masala

1 pound firm white fish, such as haddock or halibut; skin-on is fine, but can be removed if preferred, cut into 2-inch pieces

1 mango, finely chopped

3 T. finely chopped red onion

1 T. minced mint or cilantro leaves

juice from ½ lime, plus lime wedges to serve

1 cup rice flour

½ cup neutral oil

 

If making fresh tamarind paste extract, place tamarind block into a medium bowl with ½ cup water. Microwave tamarind for 1 minute, then cover bowl for 5 minutes. Remove cover and let cool until warm to the touch. Massage the block with your hands to help separate pulp from fibers. Strain the tamarind mixture through a fine-mesh sieve, reserving the smooth pulp. Discard any fibers or seeds. In a medium bowl, mix spiced ginger-garlic paste, 1 tsp. salt, tamarind, chili powder and garam masala. Add fish and let marinate for 20 minutes up to 4 hours. Meanwhile, prepare the slaw. Mix together mango, red onion, herbs and lime juice in a bowl. Season with salt and set aside. Place rice flour on a plate; coat each piece of fish on all sides with rice flour, shaking off excess. Heat ½ cup oil in a large cast-iron skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Carefully add 4–5 pieces of fish at a time; don’t overcrowd the pan. Fry until browned, about 1–2 minutes per side. Transfer to a paper-towel-lined plate to drain the oil. Serve hot with mango slaw and more lime wedges on the side.

Smoked Salmon Bites

Smoked Salmon Bites

Smoked Salmon Bites

These Smoked Salmon Appetizers are fantastic to take to gatherings because it is fast to make loads – no fiddly assembly one by one – and it’s served at room temperature. These were a hit with my taste testers! See below the recipe for the cooking video (and Dozer cameo at the end!).

250g / 8 oz cream cheese, softened

1/2 cup sour cream

1/2 tsp garlic powder

Zest of 1 lemon (large) – more is better, adjust to taste!

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 cup dill, chopped

 

3 soft large wraps / tortillas (approx 23 cm / 9″ diameter) (Note 1)

350 – 480 g / 12 – 16 oz smoked salmon slices

Table butter

 

Mix Spread ingredients together. Spread half on a flatbread in a square shape. Top with half the smoked salmon. Spread a flatbread with butter – just thinly, like buttering a piece of bread. Place the butter side down onto the salmon. Spread remaining Spread on flatbread, again in a square shape. Top with remaining salmon. Butter 3rd wrap and place butter side down onto the salmon. Use a large flat object, like a cutting board, and press down lightly to smooth the surface and compress everything. Cover with cling wrap and refrigerate for 4 hours (up to 48 hours) so the filling sets. Using a serrated knife, trim edges to make a square. Don’t cut down – filling may squirt out, cut back and forth in a sawing motion. Chef privileges: nibble on offcuts. Cut square into 6 or 7 even strips, then each strip into squares. Serve with toothpicks, wedges of lemon and extra dill for garnish.

Simmered Fish with Tomatoes & Bacon

Simmered Fish with Tomatoes & Bacon

Simmered Fish with Tomatoes & Bacon

 

4 slices bacon

1 red onion, halved and thinly sliced

Kosher salt

Freshly ground black pepper

1/2 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes, optional

One 28-ounce can whole peeled tomatoes

1 1/2 pounds firm white fish, such as halibut, cod, or pollock

Olive oil for drizzling

Chopped fresh chives or parsley, for serving

 

Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally, until crisp, 5 to 7 minutes. Transfer to a plate. Increase the heat to medium high. To the drippings in skillet, add the onion and season with V2 tsp. salt and several grinds of black pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion starts to brown, about 4 minutes. Add the crushed red pepper flakes, if using, and the tomatoes, breaking up with your hands or a spatula to bite-size pieces; season with V2 tsp. salt and more black pepper. Bring to a simmer. Season the fish all over with salt and pepper and nestle in the sauce. Drizzle with oil and cover the skillet. Reduce the heat to low and cook, covered, until the fish is just cooked through, 3 to 5 minutes depending on thickness. Uncover, top with chives, and crumble bacon overtop.

Herb Butter Salmon and Asparagus Foil Packs

Herb Butter Salmon and Asparagus Foil Packs

Herb Butter Salmon and Asparagus Foil Packs

 

4 boneless skineless salmon fillets

salt and pepper to taste

1 pound asparagus – ends trimmed

1 lemon – thinly sliced, (plus additional wedges for garnish)

½ cup butter – at room temperature

3 teaspoons Italian seasoning – or Herbs de Provence, see note

3 teaspoons minced garlic

Ffresh thyme or parsley, for garnish

 

Season salmon generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Arrange one salmon fillet and 1/4 of the asparagus in the center of one 12×12 inch piece of foil. Repeat with remaining salmon and asparagus on 3 other pieces of foil. Slide lemon slices under the salmon and asparagus.

In a small bowl mix butter, Italian seasoning, and garlic. Drop large dollops of the herb butter on top of the salmon and asparagus. Fold the foil tightly around the salmon and asparagus, being sure to seal the ends together tightly so the juices and butter doesn’t run out while cooking. Grill over medium high heat for 6-8 minutes on each side, OR bake at 400 degrees for 20 minutes, until asparagus is tender and salmon is flaky. Drizzle fresh lemon juice over the top and serve immediately.  Notes:  These foil packs can easily be made in the oven instead of on the grill. Preheat oven to 400 degrees and place foil packs directly on your oven rack (positioned in about the center of the oven) or on a sheet pan, and bake for about 15 minutes til salmon is opaque and asparagus is tender. For a little added color you can open the foil packs and broil for 1-2 minutes!

Roasted Salmon with Tangerine Relish

Roasted Salmon with Tangerine Relish

Roasted Salmon with Tangerine Relish

 

1 skin-on salmon fillet (1 3/4 to 2 pounds), about 1 1/2 inches at thickest part

2 tsp. olive oil

salt and pepper

 

Relish

4 tangerines (or 2 medium oranges), rind and pith removed, and segments cut into 1/2 inch pieces (about 1 cup)

1 scallion, sliced thin

2 tsp. fresh lemon juice

2 tsp. olive oil

1 1/2 tsp. fresh ginger

salt and pepper

 

Place the tangerine pieces in a fine mesh strainer set over a medium bowl and drain for 15 minutes. Pour off all but 1 T. tangerine juice from the bowl and whisk in the scallion, lemon juice, olive oil, and ginger. Stir in the tangerine pieces and season with salt and pepper to taste; set aside. Adjust oven rack to lowest position, place rimmed baking sheet on rack, and heat oven to 500 degrees. Use sharp knife (or a serrated knife, if need be) to remove any whitish fat from belly of fillet and cut into 4 equal pieces. Make 4 or 5 shallow slashes about an inch apart along skin side of each piece, being careful not to cut into flesh. (You don’t have to serve the fish skin-on, but don’t remove the skin before cooking.) Pat salmon dry with paper towels. Rub fillets evenly with oil and season liberally with salt and pepper. Reduce oven temperature to 275 degrees and remove baking sheet. Carefully place salmon skin-side down on baking sheet. Roast until centers of thickest part of fillets are still translucent when cut into with paring knife or instant-read thermometer inserted in thickest part of fillets registers 125 degrees, 9 to 13 minutes. Transfer fillets to individual plates or platter. Top with relish and serve.

Double-Glazed Salmon with Ginger and Apple Cider for Two

Double-Glazed Salmon with Ginger and Apple Cider for Two

Double-Glazed Salmon with Ginger and Apple Cider for Two

 

For a quick, high-impact salmon entrée, we started by brining center-cut fillets in a salt and sugar solution and making full-flavored, glossy glaze. We built that glaze on apple cider, sharpening its flavor with tangy cider vinegar and spicy ginger and seasoning it with soy sauce. Rather than relying on lots of sugar to thicken the glaze, we stirred in a little cornstarch. We applied the glaze to fillets that we had seared on the stovetop until they were well browned and then let the fish finish cooking gently in the oven. We finished our fillets by painting on another coating of the clingy, gingery glaze just before serving

 

2 T. table salt for brining

2 T. sugar for brining

2 (6- to 8-ounce) skin-on salmon fillets

2 T. plus 1 tsp. apple cider

1½ T. cider vinegar

1 T. sugar

2 tsp. soy sauce

¾ tsp. cornstarch

1 (½-inch) piece ginger, peeled and lightly smashed

½ tsp. vegetable oil

1½ tsp. minced fresh parsley or chives

 

If apple cider is unavailable, substitute apple juice. Use the bottom of a small saucepan or skillet to smash the ginger. To ensure uniform cooking, buy a 12- to 16-ounce center-cut salmon fillet and cut it into two pieces. If your salmon is less than 1 inch thick at its thickest point, check for doneness after 10 minutes of roasting in step 3. 1 Adjust oven rack to middle position and heat oven to 300 degrees. Dissolve salt and 2 T. sugar in 1 quart cold water in large container. Submerge salmon fillets in brine and let stand at room temperature for 15 minutes. Remove fillets from brine and pat dry with paper towels. 2 Meanwhile, combine cider, vinegar, sugar, soy sauce, and cornstarch in small saucepan and stir until no lumps remain. Add ginger and bring to simmer over medium-high heat, stirring frequently. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until thickened, about 30 seconds longer. Remove from heat and let ginger steep for at least 5 minutes. Discard ginger and transfer 1 T. glaze to small bowl. Heat oil in 10-inch ovensafe nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until just smoking. Place fillets, flesh side down, in skillet and cook until flesh side is well browned, 2 to 3 minutes. Flip fillets and reduce heat to low. Brush tops of fillets with reserved 1 T. glaze. Transfer skillet to oven and cook until centers are still translucent when checked with tip of paring knife and register 125 degrees (for medium-rare), 10 to 15 minutes. Wash and dry brush. 4 Brush remaining glaze on top and sides of each fillet and sprinkle with parsley. Transfer to platter or individual plates and serve.

 

Variations:

 

LEMONY THYME GLAZE

 

¼ cup lemon juice (2 lemons)

3 T. water

2 T. sugar

4 tsp. soy sauce

1 1/2 tsp. cornstarch

6 sprigs fresh thyme

 

Combine lemon juice, water, sugar, soy sauce, and cornstarch in small saucepan and stir until no lumps remain. Add thyme sprigs and bring to simmer over medium-high heat, stirring frequently. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until thickened, about 1 minute longer. Remove from heat. Discard thyme sprigs just before using.

 

 

SMOKY MAPLE GLAZE

 

White wine or champagne vinegar can be substituted for the red wine vinegar, if desired.

 

1/3 cup red wine vinegar

3 T. maple syrup

4 tsp. soy sauce

1 1/2 tsp. cornstarch

1/8 tsp. liquid smoke

 

Combine all ingredients in small saucepan and stir until no lumps remain. Bring to simmer over medium-high heat, stirring frequently. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until thickened, about 1 minute longer. Remove from heat.

Pasta with Lemon, Basil and Clams

Pasta with Lemon, Basil and Clams

Pantry Friendly Pasta with Lemon, Basil and Clams

 

8 ounces pasta such as linguine, spaghetti, or fettuccine

2 T. butter

¼ cup olive oil

¼ cup bottled lemon juice

1 tsp. dried basil

½ tsp. garlic powder

½ tsp. salt

½ tsp. onion powder

¼ tsp. dried oregano

Two 6-ounce cans chopped clams, not drained

 

Cook the pasta according to the package directions. Meanwhile, melt the butter in a medium saucepan. Add the oil, lemon juice, basil, garlic powder, salt, onion powder, and oregano. Stir until blended and heated. If the noodles are not ready, simply cover the lemon-basil mixture and let it simmer on very low heat. Just before serving, add both cans of clams with their juice to the lemon-basil mixture, and continue to heat just to bring up the temperature again. Drain the pasta, then pour the lemon-basil mixture over it and toss to coat. Serve at once.

Creamy Salmon Pasta with Mixed Greens

Creamy Salmon Pasta with Mixed Greens

Creamy Salmon Pasta with Mixed Greens

 

1 lb. pasta such as tagliatelle, fettuccine or linguine

1 shallot

1 clove garlic

1 T. butter

8oz salmon fillet, skin removed

1/2cup dry white wine

1 cup double/heavy cream

2 cups mixed greens such as spinach, arugula, watercress

½ lemon, zest and 1 T. juice

¼ tsp salt or to taste

1 T. fresh parsley, chopped

 

Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions. While the pasta is cooking remove the skin from salmon fillet, check for residual bones, remove if any found and cut into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt and pepper and sear on all sides in 1 T. of butter in a large pan until cooked all the way through. It won’t take longer than 2-3 minutes. Remove to a separate plate. To the same pan add 1 T. olive oil, chopped shallots and minced garlic and sauté over low heat for 1-2 minutes, turn the heat to medium and add white wine and let it reduce for 5-7 minutes, then add the heavy cream and mixed greens with salt, lemon zest and lemon juice. Mix to combine, then add the drained pasta to the sauce and toss to combine, top with seared salmon, chopped parsley and serve.

Pickled Shrimp

Pickled Shrimp

Pickled Shrimp

 

1 pound large (21– 25 count) shrimp, peeled and deveined

6 cups water

2 1/2 tsp. kosher salt, divided

1/2 medium red onion, peeled and thinly sliced

1/4 cup capers

2 T. lemon juice (from about 1 lemon)

1/4 cup apple cider vinegar

1/4 cup olive oil 2 T. water

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 tsp. red pepper flakes

 

In a saucepan bring 6 cups water to a boil. Add 2 tsp. salt and stir. Stir in the shrimp and cook until pink, about 3 minutes. Drain and let cool. Meanwhile, in a bowl mix the onion, capers, lemon juice, vinegar, olive oil, 2 T. water, garlic, the remaining 1/2 tsp. salt, and red pepper flakes. Add the shrimp and refrigerate overnight.

Spinach Miso Soup with Clams

Spinach Miso Soup with Clams

Spinach Miso Soup with Clams

 

⅓ C. miso (fermented soybean paste)

¼ C. gochujang

1 tsp. kosher or sea salt

1 tsp. garlic powder

1 T. sesame oil

4 C. (32 ounces) low-sodium chicken stock

1 (14-ounce) container firm tofu, cut into ½-inch slices

1 dozen littleneck clams, washed and scrubbed

1 (8-ounce) bunch mature spinach, washed and trimmed

 

In a 5-quart pot, combine miso and gochujang and stir to form a cohesive paste. Add salt, garlic powder and sesame oil, mixing until fully incorporated. Add stock, 1 C. at a time, stirring thoroughly between each addition so the paste fully liquefies. When paste is fully dissolved, add 8 C. water and stir. Bring to a boil, cover and simmer on medium heat for 1 hour, or until soup reduces by roughly a quarter. Add tofu, cook for 15 minutes, then add clams and spinach. Once the clams have opened, discarding any that do not open, the soup is ready to serve.

Bacon Scallops with Lemon Butter Sauce

Bacon Scallops with Lemon Butter Sauce

Bacon Scallops with Lemon Butter Sauce

 

5 strips bacon, uncooked, chopped

1 lb. scallops

salt and pepper

2 T. olive oil

3 T. lemon juice, freshly squeezed

2 T. wine or use lemon juice

2 T. butter, softened but not melted

2 T. parsley, fresh, chopped

 

Cook chopped bacon in a skillet until cooked. Dry scallops with paper towels. Season with salt and pepper. Heat the large skillet until very hot, add 2 T. of olive oil and immediately add scallops. Sear on high heat, about 3-4 minutes on each side. Remove from the skillet. Add 3 T. lemon juice (and maybe 2 more T. white wine). Scrape the bottom of the pan. Remove from heat, add softened butter (but not melted) – to create a creamy sauce. Add chopped bacon. Add back seared scallops. Top with chopped parsley

 

Yield: 4 servings

Calories: 309

Fat: 24g

Fiber:

One Pan Penne with Shrimp and Sundried Tomatoes

One Pan Penne with Shrimp and Sundried Tomatoes

One Pan Penne with Shrimp and Sundried Tomatoes

 

4 slices bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces

1 C. sweet onion, diced

1 pound raw, peeled shrimp

3 T. extra virgin olive oil

1/4 C. dry white wine

2 T. garlic, minced

1/2 C. sundried tomatoes, drained

2 C. fresh baby spinach leaves

A small handful of julienned basil leaves

1 lb. penne pasta, cooked and drained

cayenne pepper, to taste

salt and pepper, to taste

 

In a large sauté pan, cook the bacon until crisp. Drain the bacon on paper towels and reserve 2 T. of bacon grease in the pan. Add the onion to the pan and sauté over medium heat until tender, about 5 minutes. Season the shrimp with cayenne, salt and pepper. Increase the heat to high and add the olive oil to the sautéed onion mixture. When the oil is hot, add the seasoned shrimp and sauté until they are partially cooked, 2 to 3 minutes. Deglaze the pan with the white wine and then add the garlic, sundried tomatoes, spinach leaves and basil and cook 1 minute more, stirring often. Add the pasta and toss to coat.

Grilled Wild King Salmon with Forest Mushrooms and Leek

Grilled Wild King Salmon with Forest Mushrooms and Leek

Grilled Wild King Salmon with Forest Mushrooms and Leek

 

4 pieces wild Salmon (6 ounces each)

1/4 C. tamari sauce

1 T. chili paste (Sambal)

1 tsp. sugar

1 1/2 pounds chanterelles or other wild mushrooms sliced 3/8″

2 leeks- crescent cut 1/8″

1/4 C. extra virgin olive oil

1/4 C. balsamic vinegar

1 C. white wine

salt & pepper to taste

 

Whisk together the tamari, chili paste and sugar. In a shallow baking dish marinate the salmon paves in the tamari mixture, turning till evenly coated – cover and refrigerate for 3-4 hours. Turn the fish twice during that period to marinate evenly. Preheat the oven to 400°F and fire up your barbecue grill. In a roasting pan or casserole combine the leeks, mushrooms, oil, vinegar and white wine; season to taste with salt & pepper. Place in the oven and roast for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove the salmon from the marinade and blot the pieces dry on some paper towels. When the mushrooms are nearly cooked (25 minutes) brush the paves evenly with olive oil and cook top side down on the hot barbecue. Turn the salmon after 2-3 minutes and cook to desired doneness; 5-7 minutes total cooking time. Serve the grilled fish with the roasted mushroom and leeks, a loaf of crusty bread and a bottle of Oregon Pinot Noir.

Prosciutto-Wrapped Shrimp

Prosciutto-Wrapped Shrimp

Prosciutto-Wrapped Shrimp

 

1 small log (4 ounces) goat cheese

1 tsp. chopped fresh parsley

1 tsp. chopped fresh tarragon

1 tsp. chopped fresh chervil

1 garlic clove, minced

Salt and pepper, to taste

12 large shrimp, peeled, tail-on and butterflied

12 thin slices of prosciutto

2 T. extra-virgin olive oil

Drizzle of White Truffle Oil

 

In a small mixing bowl, blend the goat cheese, herbs and garlic together. Season the mixture with salt and pepper. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper. Press one T. of the filling in the butterfly-cut of each shrimp. Wrap each shrimp tightly with one piece of prosciutto. In a sauté pan heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the stuffed shrimp and sear for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp cook through. Remove the shrimp from the pan and place on a large serving plate. Drizzle the shrimp with truffle oil and serve warm.

Bucatini with Dungeness Crab

Bucatini with Dungeness Crab

Bucatini with Dungeness Crab

 

1¼ C. Dungeness crab meat

2 T. extra virgin olive oil

1 clove garlic, crushed

Pinch chile flakes

1½ C. San Marzano tomatoes, chopped

1 pound bucatini pasta

¼ cup chopped flat leaf parsley

Zest of 1 Meyer lemon plus juice

Salt as needed

 

Heat the oil in a saucepan on medium heat. Gently sauté the garlic until it starts to take on a golden brown color. Then remove and discard the garlic. Add chile flakes to the pan, cooking briefly before adding the tomatoes. Cook until the sauce thickens. Reduce heat and add the crab meat (plus crab fat, if you have it). Cook bucatini in a generous amount of boiling, salted water until al dente, drain, and toss with the crab sauce. Sprinkle in the chopped parsley, add lemon zest, and toss again. Adjust seasoning with salt and lemon juice and serve.

Manhattan-Style Clams with Fregola

Manhattan-Style Clams with Fregola

 

4 ounces (115 g) thick-cut bacon, diced

1/2 large Spanish onion, diced

1/2 large green bell pepper, diced

2 medium celery stalks, diced

2 garlic cloves, minced

1/2 tsp dried oregano leaves

28-ounce can whole peeled tomatoes, in juice

1 cup (125 mL) chicken stock, or seafood stock

salt

hot pepper flakes, to taste

1/2 cup (90 g) fregola Pasta, dried

24 (1-2 kg) littleneck clams, rinsed

freshly ground black pepper, to taste

1/4 cup fresh parsley, roughly chopped

 

Scatter the bacon in the bottom of a medium-sized Dutch oven or a deep 4-quart sauté pan and set over medium heat. Let the bacon warm and sizzle in place; then, when it begins to brown, stir it around, continuing until it is browned and the fat has rendered out, about 5 minutes. If there is extra, discard all but 1 tablespoon of the bacon drippings and add the onion, bell pepper, and celery. Cook, stirring, until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 1 more minute; then stir in the oregano, tomatoes (with juices), and broth, scraping up any stuck bits, and bring to a simmer. Season with salt and red pepper flakes. Stir in the fregola, and simmer, covered, for 10 minutes. Stop here if you are prepping the soup ahead of time. If serving immediately, stir in the clams and simmer, covered, stirring occasionally, until the clams open wide, 8 to 10 minutes. (Discard any clams that have not opened after 10 minutes.)

Season with salt and black pepper and add the parsley.

Gently Roasted Alaska Halibut with Leeks, Peppers and Olives

Gently Roasted Alaska Halibut with Leeks, Peppers and Olives

Gently Roasted Alaska Halibut with Leeks, Peppers and Olives

 

6 cups sliced leeks (about 4 large), white and light green part only

8 ounces pequillo peppers (1-1/4 cups), cut in 1/2 strips OR other type of roasted, seeded, and skinned red pepper

1/4 tsp. saffron threads

3 Tablespoons butter

4 cups chicken broth or stock

2 Tablespoons fresh lemon juice

1 cup chopped pitted green olives in brine

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, as needed

3 pounds Alaska Halibut fillets, skinned, cut into 8 portions

 

Put the leeks, peppers, saffron, and butter in a very large sauté pan or deep pot. Pour in the chicken broth. Cook over medium-high heat until the leeks are very soft and the broth boils down to about one third of the amount you started with, about 12 to 15 minutes. Stir in the lemon juice, olives, and a good grinding of black pepper. Taste and add salt as needed, depending on the saltiness of the broth. The recipe can be made ahead up to this point. Preheat the oven to 300F. Reheat the leek mixture until it simmers. Pour two thirds of the leeks into a 9-inch X 13-inch baking dish. Season the Alaska Halibut portions with kosher salt. Arrange the halibut over the leeks and spoon the remaining leeks over the fish. Bake just until the halibut flakes apart slightly when nudged with a finger, and the interior is no longer translucent; about 35 minutes.

Grilled Tilapia with Pineapple Salsa

Grilled Tilapia with Pineapple Salsa

Grilled Tilapia with Pineapple Salsa

 

2 C. pineapple, cubed

2 green onions, chopped

1/4 C. green pepper, diced

1/4 C. fresh cilantro, minced

2 T. plus 4 tsp. lime juice, divided

1/4 tsp. plus 1/8 tsp. salt, divided

1/8 tsp. cayenne pepper

1 T. canola oil

2 lbs. tilapia fillets

1/8 tsp. pepper

 

In a small bowl, combine pineapple, onions, green pepper, cilantro, 4 tsp. lime juice, 1/8 tsp. salt and cayenne pepper. Mix well and chill until serving time. In a separate small bowl, combine oil and remaining lime juice. Brush over fillets; sprinkle with pepper and remaining salt. Cook fish on a grill pan over medium heat, turning once, for 6 to 8 minutes, until fish flakes easily with a fork. Serve fish topped with pineapple salsa. Serves 6 to 8.

Shrimp Fra Diavolo with Penne

Shrimp Fra Diavolo with Penne

Shrimp Fra Diavolo with Penne

 

1 box Penne

1 Pound Large Shrimp Peeled and Deveined

Salt to taste

1 tsp. Black Pepper Freshly Ground

1 tsp. Red Chilli Pepper Flakes

3 T. Olive Oil

1 Medium Onion Finely Chopped

28 Ounces Diced Tomatoes Canned, Reserve Liquid

1 Cup Dry White Wine

3 Cloves Garlic Chopped

1/2 tsp. Oregano Dried

1/4 Cup Fresh Italian Parsley

1/4 Cup Fresh Basil Chopped

 

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat and toss the shrimp in a medium bowl with 1 tsp. each salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, heat the oil over a medium-high flame in a large, heavy skillet Add the shrimp and sauté until just cooked through, about 2 minutes. Transfer the shrimp using a slotted spoon to a large plate and set aside. Add the onion to the same skillet and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the tomatoes with their juices, wine, garlic, and oregano, and simmer until the sauce thickens, about 10 minutes. Meanwhile, add the Penne to the boiling salted water and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender but still firm to the bite, about 8 minutes.

Basic Fish en Papillote

Basic Fish en Papillote

Basic Fish en Papillote

 

6 rectangular sheets of parchment paper

3 T. butter

1 clove garlic, finely chopped

1 cup leeks, white part only, julienned

1 cup celery, julienned

1 cup carrots, julienned

6 boneless, skinless fish fillets (6 to 7 ounces each)

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

6 T. dry white wine

6 fresh thyme sprigs

 

Preheat oven to 425°F. Fold each sheet of parchment in half and cut into a heart shape large enough to encase a portion of fish when folded in half. In a medium sauté pan, heat the butter over medium-low heat, add the garlic, leeks, celery, and carrots, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss and stir the vegetables to coat them with butter. Cover pan and let vegetables sweat for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are almost soft. Set aside to cool for 5 minutes. Spray the parchment hearts lightly with nonstick cooking spray. Season each side of the fillets lightly with salt and pepper. Place 1 fillet on each parchment heart and spoon one-sixth of the sautéed mixture over each fish, drizzle 1 T. of wine over each fillet, and top with a sprig of thyme. Fold the parchment over and seal the edges by crimping them. Place parchment packages on a large sheet pan (or two if necessary) and bake in preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes. If the parchment was well sealed, the packages may puff. Remove from oven and use a spatula to place a parchment package on each heated serving plate. Use a scissors or sharp knife to cut a large X in the top of the parchment. Serves 6.

Celeriac Soup with Seared Scallops & Lovage Oil

Celeriac Soup with Seared Scallops & Lovage Oil

Celeriac Soup with Seared Scallops & Lovage Oil

 

1 celeriac, diced

1 leek, pale parts only, cut in half lengthwise and sliced

1 small parsnip, diced

1 bay leaf

1 sprig thyme

1 sprig Italian parsley

2 T. packed lovage leaves

¼ cup plus 3 T. extra virgin olive oil

12 large sea scallops (about 1 lb.), feet removed

Kosher salt

Freshly ground black pepper

¼ tsp. celery seeds, ground

2 tsp. freshly squeezed lemon juice

 

Combine the celeriac, leek, parsnip, bay leaf, thyme, parsley, and 2 quarts water in a large, heavy pot. Bring to a boil and simmer for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the celeriac is tender. Meanwhile, combine the lovage and ¼ cup of the oil in a blender and blend until smooth. Gently pat the scallops dry with paper towels. Season them generously with salt and pepper, sprinkle with the celery seed, and set aside at room temperature for about half an hour. Strain the lovage oil through a fine mesh sieve. Heat a large, heavy sauté pan over high heat until very hot but not smoking. Add the remaining 3 T. of oil and swirl to coat the bottom of the pan. Add the scallops and cook without disturbing for 2 to 3 minutes, or until they release from the pan and are crusty and brown. Using tongs, turn the scallops and continue to cook over high heat another 1 to 2 minutes, or until the desired doneness. Moisture will just begin to accumulate on the surface of the scallops when they are medium-rare. Remove the scallops to a plate and tent with foil to keep warm. Discard the bay leaf, thyme sprig, and parsley sprig from the soup, remove from the heat, and puree with an immersion blender until smooth. Strain through a fine mesh sieve. Add the lemon juice and season to taste with salt and pepper. Arrange the scallops in shallow individual bowls, divide the soup among them, being careful not to pour it directly over the scallops, and drizzle with the lovage oil. Serve immediately. Serves 4 to 6. Celeriac is also known as celery root. Leeks tend to be very dirty, so rinse them thoroughly after you chop them. Celery leaves can be used if lovage leaves are unavailable. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can use a regular blender but remember: never fill a blender more than half way with hot liquid. This means you will need to blend the soup in batches and reheat it before serving.

Mango Miso Salmon with Asparagus and Quick-Pickled Mango

Mango Miso Salmon with Asparagus and Quick-Pickled Mango

Mango Miso Salmon with Asparagus and Quick-Pickled Mango

3 mangoes, peeled and pitted (divided use)

1/2 cup white miso paste

1 cup plus 2 T. mirin (divided use)

3/4 cup cooking sake (divided use)

2 T. soy sauce

Four 6- to 7-ounce salmon fillets (or pieces of salmon belly), skin on

2 T. unseasoned rice wine vinegar

2 bunches asparagus, about 60 stalks total, tough ends trimmed

Olive oil

Salt and pepper

3 T. canola oil

1 T. unsalted butter

 

Roughly dice 2 mangoes and add them to the bowl of a food processor or blender. Puree until smooth; you should have nearly 1 cup of puree. In a medium bowl, combine miso paste, 1/2 cup mirin, 2/3 cup mango puree, 1/2 cup sake and soy sauce. Whisk until thoroughly combined and smooth. Transfer half the marinade to a separate bowl and add 2 T. mirin and remaining mango puree (you should have about 1/4 cup), stirring until smooth. Cover with plastic wrap and transfer to the refrigerator. Place the salmon in a medium-size glass dish and cover with the remaining marinade. Cover with plastic wrap, transfer to the refrigerator and let chill for 24 hours, turning once. Transfer the reserved marinade to a medium saucepot and heat over medium, uncovered. Cook until reduced enough to coat the back of a spoon, 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Cover pan and set aside. Dice remaining mango. In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup sake, rice wine vinegar and 1/2 cup mirin, stirring to combine. Stir in the diced mango. Let sit for 15 minutes, then drain, discarding liquid. Remove salmon from refrigerator and blot excess marinade. Place fish in a clean dish until ready to cook. Preheat the oven to 375° F. Toss the asparagus with olive oil, salt and pepper to lightly coat the stalks and place on a foil-lined sheet pan large enough to fit them all in a single layer. Transfer to the oven and roast for 10 to 15 minutes or until slightly crispy. Remove and cover with aluminum foil to keep warm. Place a cold nonstick pan on medium heat, then immediately add the canola oil and butter. As soon as the butter has melted, add the fish. Cook, skin-side down, until skin is lightly browned and easily releases from the pan, about 5 minutes. Carefully flip fillets and cook on flesh side, 3 minutes more, until lightly browned and cooked through. If all four fillets do not fit comfortably in the pan, cook two at a time, then transfer to a plate and cover with aluminum foil to keep warm while you cook the other two. While the salmon is cooking, reheat the saucepot of reserved sauce over low. Evenly distribute the asparagus among four dinner plates. Place a salmon fillet on each plate, top with 2 to 3 T. of the sauce and garnish with the diced, quick-pickled mango. Serves 4.