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Category: Appetizers & Snacks

Waffle Iron Fried Cheese

Waffle Iron Fried Cheese

Waffle Iron Fried Cheese

3 T. all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp. paprika, or a pinch of cayenne pepper
1/2 lb. low-moisture mozzarella, sliced about 1/2 inch thick (see note above)
2 large eggs, beaten
1/2 C. bread crumbs
Nonstick cooking spray
Salsa, for serving (optional)

Preheat waffle iron. (Set it to medium if it has temperature controls.). On a plate, mix flour with paprika or cayenne. Place eggs in a second plate or bowl and bread crumbs in a third. Working one slice at a time, coat cheese in flour, then egg, then breadcrumbs. Spray both sides of waffle iron with nonstick spray, place as many cheese slices as will fit in waffle iron, and close lid. Cook until bread crumbs turn golden brown, about 1 minute. Repeat with any remaining cheese. Serve hot on its own or with salsa for dipping. Note: Any good melting cheese such as young provolone, fontina, Jack, cheddar, or a queso chihuahua can be used in place of the mozzarella. Avoid fresh mozzarella or dry cheese meant for grating. Some recipes call for the breaded cheese to be refrigerated (or frozen) before cooking. I did not find this to be necessary with the waffle iron version, but you can certainly bread the cheese several hours ahead and refrigerate it until you’re ready to waffle.

Green Chile Waffled Quesadillas

Green Chile Waffled Quesadillas

Green Chile Waffled Quesadillas

4 flour tortillas
1 C. shredded Mexican- style cheese, such as queso Chihuahua or Monterey Jack
1⁄4 C. chopped canned green chiles

Preheat the waffle iron on medium. Coat both sides of the waffle iron grid with nonstick spray. Place a tortilla on the waffle iron and, taking care because the waffle iron is hot, spread half of the cheese and half of the green chiles evenly across the tortilla, leaving a margin of an inch or so around the edge of the tortilla. Top with another tortilla and close the waffle iron. Check the quesadilla after 3 minutes. When the cheese is melted and the tortilla has golden brown waffle marks, it is ready. Remove the quesadilla from the waffle iron. Repeat Steps 2 and 3 with the remaining ingredients, cut into wedges, and serve. Notes: For a more substantial meal, add one of the following to the tortilla in Step 2: • 1⁄2 C. shredded chicken or pork • 1⁄2 C. sliced steak • 1⁄2 C. refried beans Garnish with one or more of the following: • Chopped scallion • Crumbled bacon • Sour cream • Salsa • Guacamole

Dehydrator: Rhubarb Candy

Dehydrator: Rhubarb Candy

Dehydrator: Rhubarb Candy

Harvest rhubarb stalks and clean well. In large pot mix equal parts sugar and water. You’ll need just enough to coat rhubarb. Bring up to almost a boil, stirring to dissolve the sugar, then remove from heat and allow to cool. Meanwhile, prepare your rhubarb. Cut each stalk into pieces 4-5 inches long. Slice each piece lengthwise into thin strips, about 4-5 strips per piece. Once done, submerge rhubarb in simple syrup (it doesn’t need to be completely cool). Coat each piece and then transfer to lined dehydrator trays, evenly spaced and not touching. Dry on the vegetable setting (125 degrees) and dry until the pieces have shrunk by about half and are just slightly flexible. If you want to be fancy, remove them carefully while still warm and twist them around a dowel or your fingers to make it curly. Store in airtight container.

Shrimp, Cabbage, and Carrot Potstickers

Shrimp, Cabbage, and Carrot Potstickers

Shrimp, Cabbage, and Carrot Potstickers

2 tablespoons dark sesame oil
1 tablespoon minced fresh garlic
1/2 cup finely grated carrot
2 cups thinly sliced napa (Chinese) cabbage
4 teaspoons chili garlic sauce, divided
5 tablespoons lower-sodium soy sauce, divided
1 1/4 pounds large shrimp, peeled, deveined, and finely chopped
40 gyoza skins or wonton wrappers
Cornstarch
1 1/3 cups plus 1 Tbsp. water, divided
3 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
Cooking spray
order ingredients
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add oil; swirl to coat. Add garlic; cook 1 1/2 minutes, stirring constantly. Stir in carrot; cook 1 minute. Stir in cabbage; cook 3 minutes or until wilted. Stir in 1 tablespoon chili garlic sauce; cook 30 seconds. Remove pan from heat; stir in 2 tablespoons soy sauce. Cool; stir in shrimp. Arrange 8 gyoza skins on a clean work surface. Spoon about 2 rounded teaspoons shrimp mixture in center of each skin. Moisten edges of skins with water. Fold in half; press edges together to seal. Place on a baking sheet sprinkled with cornstarch; cover to prevent drying. Repeat with remaining gyoza skins and shrimp mixture. Set aside, or follow freezing instructions. Bring remaining chili garlic sauce, remaining soy sauce, 1 tablespoon water, honey, and vinegar to a boil in a small saucepan. Cook 3 minutes or until thickened, stirring frequently. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Coat both sides of potstickers with cooking spray. Arrange 10 potstickers in skillet; cook 2 minutes or until browned. Turn potstickers over. Carefully add 1/3 cup water to skillet; cover and steam 5 minutes. Uncover and cook 1 minute or until liquid evaporates. Remove potstickers from pan; keep warm. Repeat with remaining potstickers and water. Serve with soy sauce mixture. How To: Freeze: Sprinkle uncooked potstickers with cornstarch; freeze on a baking sheet until firm. Place in a zip-top plastic freezer bag; freeze up to 2 months. Reheat: Follow step 4 using frozen potstickers, steaming for 7 minutes.

Yield: 8 servings
Serving Size: 5 Potstickers, 1 T. sauce

Calories:  195
Fat: 4.3g
Fiber: 1g

Bacon, Scallion & Caramelized Onion Dip

Bacon, Scallion & Caramelized Onion Dip

Bacon, Scallion & Caramelized Onion Dip

3 slices Bacon, cut into ¼” pieces
¾ C. Sour Cream
½ C. Caramelized Onions
2 Scallions, minced
½ tsp. Cider Vinegar
Salt & Pepper

Cook bacon in 8 inch skillet over medium heat until crisp, 5-7 minutes. Transfer to paper towel lined plate. Combine Sour cream, onions, scallions, vinegar and bacon in medium bowl. Season with salt & Pepper to taste and serve. Dip can be refrigerated up to 3 days.

Smoked Salmon Dip with Dill & Horseradish

Smoked Salmon Dip with Dill & Horseradish

Smoked Salmon Dip with Dill & Horseradish

¾ C. Sour Cream
¾ C. Mayo
3 oz. Smoked Salmon
2 tsp. Lemon Juice
1 tsp. Horseradish
2 tsp. minced Fresh Dill
Salt & Pepper

Process first 5 ingredients in food processor until smooth and creamy. Transfer to serving bowl, mix in dill and salt and pepper to taste. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until flavors are blended, at least 1 hour, and up to 3 days.

Fancy Toast

Fancy Toast

Mushroom Toast

½ Sandwich Thin, toasted (Ozery Bakery One Bun Multigrain Thin Sandwich Buns)

1/2 tablespoon coconut oil

1 (4 oz) package sliced baby bella mushrooms sliced

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon pepper

1 clove garlic minced

1/2 – 1 tablespoon champagne vinegar

Fried egg

Crumbled Cheese (queso fresco, cojita, feta, etc), for garnish, optional

Chopped herb(s), for garnish, optional

Melt coconut oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add in mushrooms, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally for 3 minutes. Add in garlic and vinegar and cook until mushrooms are tender, about 1-3 additional minutes. Pour over toasted bun and top with a fried egg.

Energy-Boosting Breakfast Toast

1 slice whole grain, oat bran, or other hearty bread

Spread of your choice peanut butter, any nut or seed butter, cottage cheese, cream cheese, all-natural jam, smashed avocado, hummus, mascarpone, honey goat cheese

Sliced or diced fruits apple, pear, grapes, banana, peach, apricot, figs, fresh or frozen and defrosted berries, or other favorite fruits

Vegetables/leafy greens cucumbers, tomatoes, peppers, arugula, baby spinach, or other favorites

Favorite toppings chia seeds, hemp seeds, flax or sunflower seeds, pepitas, nuts, coconut, dried fruits, granola, cacao nibs, fig jam, onion jam

Protein Choices:  Scrambled, Fried, Poached or sliced Hard-Boiled Egg, Bacon, Prosciutto, Ham, Cheeses

Seasoning salt, pepper, chiles, herbs, spices, salsa, honey, lemon or lime juice, everything bagel seasoning, grated cheese, hot sauce

Toast bread until lightly brown. Add spread of your choice. Top with a fruit or vegetable, or both, as desired. Scatter on any toppings you like. Finish with appropriate seasonings.  Alternate toasting method:  Preheat your oven to 425 degrees and place a baking sheet in the oven. While you are waiting for the oven to heat, butter one side of your bread with softened butter. When the oven and the baking sheet are heated to temperature, quickly remove the baking sheet from the oven. Quickly place the bread, butter side down, onto the baking sheet and return the sheet to the oven. Bake until the bottom side of the bread is toasted 5-10 minutes (the top won’t toast, so peek under the corner of your toasts to check the bottom regularly). This toast is delicious because it gets crispy on one side without drying out like it does in the toaster.

Hard-Boiled Egg & Herb Toast

 

So fast and easy if you have hard boiled eggs on hand!

1 Egg, hard boiled

1 slice whole wheat bread, toasted

1 tsp. diced herb (try parsley, tarragon, thyme, whatever you have)

EVOO

Salt & Pepper

 

Thinly slice egg, then layer slices over toast. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Garnish with tarragon.

Pear Chutney Cheese Toast

 

Chutney:

2 pears (see note)

1 tablespoon olive oil

¼ cup diced red onions

2 teaspoons minced ginger

2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

4 pitted and chopped Medjool dates

¼ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon cinnamon powder

zest from 1 lemon

¼ cup water

â…› teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)

1 tablespoon butter, softened

2 slices Dave’s Good Seed Bread

3 ounces sliced sharp white cheddar cheese

1/2 cup arugula microgreens

2 teaspoons olive oil

squeeze lemon juice

To make chutney, start by peeling , coring , and chopping the pears into cubes. Heat a pot over medium-low heat and add the diced onions, cooking until fragrant, 5 to 6 minutes. Stir in the ginger and follow with apple cider vinegar. Stir up any stuck onion pieces. Add in the pears, dates, salt, cinnamon powder, zest, water, and chili flakes if using. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the pears softened, and the mixture thickens up, 15 minutes or so. If the chutney is too thick, add a splash or two of water as it cooks. Preheat broiler. Butter each slice of bread and place on a sheet tray. Bake the bread under the broiler, flipping once, until just starting to crisp. Keep an eye on the toast- this will happen quickly. Remove bread from oven and smear on 2-3 tablespoon of chutney and follow with the slices of cheese. Place back under the broiler and cook until cheese is melting and bubbly, 60-90 seconds (again, goes fast- keep an eye on it!) Toss the microgreens with the olive oil and lemon juice, then top toast before serving.

Note: When making chutney I prefer the Bartlett varieties or any other variety that holds shape when cooked.

 

Mango, Lime & Mozzarella Toast

 

Good Bread

Fresh Mozzarella

Sliced Mango

Zest from ½ Lime

Flaky Sea Salt

 

Layer cheese on toast.  If desired, place under broiler or in toaster oven to heat mozzarella a bit.  Layer with mango then sprinkle on zest and salt.

 

Goat Cheese & Bacon Avocado Toast

 

Ripe Avocado

Crumbled Goat Cheese

Thin lardons Bacon, cooked crisp

Bread of Choice

 

Mash avocado on toast.  Top with some cheese and bacon.

Cook’s Illustrated Caesar Dip with Parmesan & Anchovies

Cook’s Illustrated Caesar Dip with Parmesan & Anchovies

Cook’s Illustrated Caesar Dip with Parmesan & Anchovies

Serve with crudités.

1 C. mayonnaise
1/2 C. sour cream
1/4 C. grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp. lemon juice
1 tsp. minced fresh parsley
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 anchovy fillets, rinsed and minced
1/8 tsp. pepper

Combine all ingredients in medium bowl until smooth and creamy. Transfer dip to serving bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until flavors are blended, at least 1 hour. Serve. (Dip can be refrigerated for up to 2 days.)

Heirloom Tomato Toast with Fresh Ricotta

Heirloom Tomato Toast with Fresh Ricotta

Heirloom Tomato Toast with Fresh Ricotta

2 heirloom tomatoes
4 pieces of high-quality, fresh multi-grain bread
¼ cup fresh ricotta cheese
16 basil leaves
olive oil
salt
pepper

Thinly slice the tomatoes. Place the sliced tomatoes in a colander and let them drain for 15 minutes. Remove them from the colander and lightly sprinkle with salt. Toast the bread, then spread a layer of fresh ricotta cheese on top. Add the basil leaves. Layer the sliced tomato on the ricotta toast. Drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with pepper. Add salt to taste. Garnish with any additional basil leaves. Variation: Flavor the ricotta with chopped scallions, chives or other herbs

Avocado Toast + Herbed Ricotta & Fresh Tomatoes

Avocado Toast + Herbed Ricotta & Fresh Tomatoes

Avocado Toast + Herbed Ricotta & Fresh Tomatoes

6 slices artisan bread, toasted
1 T. olive oil
1 large ripe avocado, halved, seeded, peeled and thinly sliced
1 cup ricotta cheese
¼ cup finely chopped spinach leaves
1 Tablespoons finely chopped basil leaves
2 teaspoons finely chopped chives, divided
pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
1 cup cherry tomatoes
salt and pepper, to taste

Toast bread, in a toaster or under the broiler in the oven until golden brown. While bread is toasting, combine ricotta cheese, spinach, basil chives and red pepper flakes in a small mixing bowl . Stir to combine thoroughly. Set aside. Cut cherry tomatoes in half. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside.
Drizzle or brush top sides of toast with olive oil. Assemble toasts by layering each piece of toast with sliced avocado, ricotta mixture, and sliced tomatoes. Sprinkle with salt and pepper and garnish with snipped chives and chopped basil.

Yield: 6 servings
Calories: 217
Fat: 10.9g
Fiber: 3g

Grapefruit with Zero-Calorie Spiced “Sugar”

Grapefruit with Zero-Calorie Spiced “Sugar”

Grapefruit with Zero-Calorie Spiced “Sugar”

2 large Ruby Red grapefruits, cut in half crosswise and flesh separated from membrane
11/2 tablespoons large-crystal sugar replacement (such as Lakanto)
1/8 teaspoon ginger powder
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon powder

Place each grapefruit half cut side up in a serving bowl. Mix the sugar replacement well with the ginger and cinnamon and sprinkle the spiced “sugar” evenly over each grapefruit half. Serve chilled.

Yield: 4 servings
Calories: 28
Fat: 0g
Fiber: 2g

Cook’s Illustrated Spanish-Style Garlic Shrimp

Cook’s Illustrated Spanish-Style Garlic Shrimp

Cook’s Illustrated Spanish-Style Garlic Shrimp

Serve shrimp with crusty bread for dipping in the richly flavored olive oil. The dish can be served directly from the skillet (make sure to use a trivet) or, for a sizzling effect, transferred to an 8-inch cast iron skillet that’s been heated for 2 minutes over medium-high heat. We prefer the slightly sweet flavor of dried chiles in this recipe, but tsp. sweet paprika can be substituted. If sherry vinegar is unavailable, use 2 tsp. dry sherry and 1 tsp. white vinegar.

14 garlic cloves, peeled
1 lb. large shrimp (31 to 40 per pound), peeled, deveined, and tails removed
1/2 C. olive oil
1/2 tsp. salt
1 bay leaf
1 (2-inch) piece mild dried chile, such as New Mexican, roughly broken, seeds included
1 1/2 tsp. sherry vinegar
1 tsp. chopped fresh parsley

Mince 2 garlic cloves and toss with shrimp, 2 tsp. olive oil, and salt in medium bowl. Let shrimp marinate at room temperature for 30 minutes. Meanwhile, using flat side of chef’s knife, smash 4 garlic cloves. Heat smashed garlic with remaining 6 tsp. olive oil in 12-inch skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until garlic is light golden brown, 4 to 7 minutes. Remove pan from heat and allow oil to cool to room temperature. Using slotted spoon, remove smashed garlic from skillet and discard. Thinly slice remaining 8 garlic cloves. Return skillet to low heat and add sliced garlic, bay leaf, and chile. Cook, stirring occasionally, until garlic is tender but not browned, 4 to 7 minutes. (If garlic has not begun to sizzle after 3 minutes, increase heat to medium-low.) Increase heat to medium-low; add shrimp with marinade to pan in single layer. Cook shrimp, undisturbed, until oil starts to gently bubble, about 2 minutes. Using tongs, flip shrimp and continue to cook until almost cooked through, about 2 minutes longer. Increase heat to high and add sherry vinegar and parsley. Cook, stirring constantly, until shrimp are cooked through and oil is bubbling vigorously, 15 to 20 seconds. Serve immediately.

Clam Dip with Bacon & Scallions

Clam Dip with Bacon & Scallions

Clam Dip with Bacon & Scallions

4 slices Bacon, cut into ¼” pieces
¾ C. Sour Cream
¾ C. Mayo
1 tsp. Lemon Juice
1 tsp. Worcestershire
1 6.5oz. cans minced Clams, drained
2 Scallions, sliced thin
Salt & Pepper
Cayenne Pepper

Cook bacon in 8 inch skillet over medium heat until crisp, 5-7 minutes. Transfer to paper towel lined plate. Whisk together sour cream, mayo, lemon juice, and Worcestershire in medium bowl. Stir in clams, scallions and bacon. Season with salt, pepper and cayenne to taste. Transfer dip to serving bowl, cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until flavors are blended, at least 1 hour, and up to 2 days.

Skewered Buffalo Mozzarella Parcels

Skewered Buffalo Mozzarella Parcels

Skewered Buffalo Mozzarella Parcels

Olive Oil
2 cloves Garlic, crushed
Rosemary Sticks, for skewers
Ciabatta bread, cut or torn into small pieces
Buffalo Mozzarella, cut or torn into pieces the same size as the bread
Smoked Pancetta
Arugula
Lemon Juice

Add garlic to olive oil in bowl along with a few rosemary leaves. Toss bread and mozzarella in bread and let marinate for 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Take 1 piece bread and 1 piece mozzarella and stack them on each other. Wrap a piece of pancetta around them and push onto a rosemary stalk. Repeat until its mostly full (probably about 4 balls per skewer). Preheat grill while you finish for all bread and mozzarella. Grill for 5-6 minutes, turning once, until crisp and golden. Squeeze lemon into bowl that held the olive oil, cheese and bread, and whisk it. Add arugula and toss with your hands to lightly coat. Place arugula on plate, top with skewer and enjoy.

Waffled Pajeon (Korean Scallion Pancakes)

Waffled Pajeon (Korean Scallion Pancakes)

Waffled Pajeon (Korean Scallion Pancakes)

1 C. all-purpose flour
1 1/2 tsp. granulated sugar
1 tsp. salt
1 C. water
10 scallions, washed and dried
Nonstick cooking spray

Sesame-Soy Dipping Sauce (recipe follows)

Preheat the waffle iron on medium. In a medium-size bowl, combine the four, sugar and salt. Add the water and whisk just until combined. Trim away the white bottoms of the scallions. Trim the tops of the scallions if they are ragged and sad. Cut the stems so that they are roughly the length of one section of your waffle iron. Coat both sides of the waffle iron grid with nonstick spray. Arrange a small handful of scallions on the waffle iron. For the best-looking pajeon, set the scallions in the “valleys” of the waffle iron and arrange t hem in a crisscross pattern. Pour about 1/4 C. of batter on top and close the waffle iron. Cook until the batter has set and the scallions have cooked through, 4 minutes. You can poke one of the scallions with the tip of a sharp knife to see if it has cooked. Remove the pajeon from the waffle iron and repeat Steps 4 and 5 with the remaining scallions and batter. Serve with Sesame-Soy Dipping Sauce.

2 T. soy sauce
1 T. rice wine vinegar
1 T. honey
1 tsp. toasted sesame seeds
Place the soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, honey and sesame seeds in a small bowl, stir to combine and set the sauce aside.

Baked Parmesan Zucchini Chips

Baked Parmesan Zucchini Chips

Baked Parmesan Zucchini Chips

Parchment paper
2 medium zucchini, sliced into 1/4 inch thick rounds
1/2 cup egg whites
1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan
1/4 cup whole wheat bread crumbs
1/8 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Freshly ground black pepper
Red pepper flakes, if desired

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. Cover baking sheet with Parchment paper. Place egg whites in small bowl. In separate small bowl, combine the Parmesan, bread crumbs, salt, garlic powder, red pepper flakes and a little black pepper (add or subtract spices to suit personal taste). Dip each zucchini slice in egg whites then dip each round into the Parmesan bread crumb mixture, making sure to coat it evenly on boat sides. Place slices evenly on prepared baking sheet and bake 15 minutes. Flip and bake another 5-10 minutes or until zucchini chips are golden brown and crisp. Serve immediately. Serve with Marinara for dipping.

Savory Waffles, 6 Ways

Savory Waffles, 6 Ways

Savory Waffles, 6 Ways

Basic Top Notch Waffle: Whisk 2 C. flour, 1/4 C. confectioners’ sugar, 2 tsp. baking powder, 1/2 tsp. salt and 1/4 tsp. baking soda in a large bowl. Whisk 1 1/2 C. milk, 1 1/2 sticks cooled melted butter and 2 eggs in a separate bowl until combined; pour into the flour mixture and stir until just combined. (A few small lumps are fine.) Preheat a waffle iron; lightly brush with butter, then fill with batter three-quarters full and cook until the waffles are golden and crisp.

Sesame, Scallion and Sausage: Add 1 bunch thinly sliced scallions, 3 thinly sliced dried Chinese sausages and 2 tsp. each toasted sesame oil, sesame seeds and grated ginger to the batter. Top the waffles with a fried egg.

Smoked Salmon and Chive : Reduce the milk to 1 1/4 C. and add 1/2 C. sour cream. Add 4 ounces chopped smoked salmon, 1/4 C. minced chives and 2 T. chopped tarragon to the batter. Top the waffles with more sour cream and chives.

Bacon and Almond: Add 8 chopped cooked bacon slices, 1/2 C. finely chopped marcona almonds and 2 tsp. each ancho chile powder and chopped thyme to the batter. Top the waffles with maple syrup.

Goat Cheese and Kale: Add 4 ounces crumbled goat cheese, 1 C. finely chopped kale, 2 T. chopped mixed herbs (parsley, basil and dill), 1 tsp. grated lemon zest and 1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper to the batter. Top the waffles with arugula salad.

Chili Cornbread: Replace 1 C. of the flour with cornmeal. Add 1 C. each thawed frozen fire-roasted corn and shredded pepper jack cheese, 1/4 C. chopped cilantro and 1 minced seeded jalapeno to the batter. Top the waffles with honey and hot sauce.

Salami-Provolone: Add 1/2 C. each shredded provolone and grated parmesan, 2 ounces finely chopped salami and 1 tsp. pepper to the batter. Top the waffles with ricotta and olive oil.

Avocado Salsa with Feta Cheese

Avocado Salsa with Feta Cheese

Avocado Salsa with Feta Cheese
2 plum tomatoes, chopped
1 ripe avocado – peeled, pitted and chopped
1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tablespoon snipped fresh parsley
1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon red or white wine vinegar
4 ounces crumbled feta cheese

In a bowl, gently stir together tomatoes, avocados, onion, and garlic. Mix in parsley and oregano. Gently stir in olive oil and vinegar. Then stir in feta. Cover, and chill for 2 to 6 hours.

Yield: 12 servings
Calories: 66
Fat: 5.6g
Fiber: 1.3g

Chicken Fried Potatoes

Chicken Fried Potatoes

Chicken Fried Potatoes

3 medium russet potatoes, cleaned and sliced (about 1/4” thick)
1 C. buttermilk
1 T. minced thyme
3 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
1 1/2 tsp. salt, divided
1 1/2 tsp. cracked black pepper
1 C. all purpose flour
1 1/2 T. onion powder
2 tsp. dry mustard
2 tsp. smoked paprika

homemade buttermilk-ranch dipping sauce:
1/2 C. buttermilk
1/4 C. sour cream
2 T. mayonnaise
2 T. fresh lemon juice
1 T. chives, thinly sliced
1 tsp. minced thyme
1 garlic clove, minced
salt and pepper to taste

vegetable oil for frying

Fill a large, deep skillet with 1 1/2 to 2 inches of oil and preheat to 350ËšF. Place potatoes, buttermilk, thyme, garlic, 1/2 tsp. salt, and 1/2 tsp. cracked black pepper into a mixing bowl and toss together until well combined. Allow mixture to sit for 15 minutes. Place flour, onion powder, mustard, paprika, 1 tsp. salt, and pepper into a shallow dish and stir together. Remove potatoes from buttermilk and dredge in flour mixture. Shake of excess flour and fry potatoes in batches for 6 to 8 minutes or until golden brown and potatoes have cooked through. Drain onto a paper towel and season with salt and pepper. Serve with buttermilk dipping sauce. For buttermilk sauce: Place all ingredients into a mixing bowl and whisk together until well combined. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Before serving remove from refrigerator and allow to sit at room temp. for about 10 minutes. Adjust seasonings and stir.

Cook’s Illustrated Marinated Mushrooms

Cook’s Illustrated Marinated Mushrooms

Cook’s Illustrated Marinated Mushrooms

Cooking the mushrooms over relatively high heat encourages them to quickly release liquid, which can then be reduced to a concentrated, flavorful glaze.


1/4 C. extra-virgin olive oil
1/8 tsp. red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper
1 pound cremini or white mushrooms, trimmed, left whole if small, halved if medium, quartered if large
3 tsp. lemon juice
1 garlic clove, sliced very thin
1 large shallot, minced
1/4 small red bell pepper, chopped fine
1 tsp. minced fresh thyme or 1 tsp. chopped fresh parsley or basil

Heat 3 tsp. oil, pepper flakes, and ‘h tsp. salt in 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add mushrooms and 2 tsp. lemon juice. Cook, stirring frequently, until mushrooms release moisture, moisture evaporates, and mushrooms have browned around edges, about 10 minutes. Spread mushrooms in single layer on large plate or
rimmed baking sheet; cool to room temperature, about 20 minutes. When cooled, transfer mushrooms to medium bowl, leaving behind any juices. Stir garlic, shallot, and bell pepper into mushrooms, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate at least 6 or up to 24 hours. Allow mushrooms to stand at room temperature about 1 hour. Stir in remaining 1 tsp. olive oil, 1 tsp. lemon juice, and thyme and season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Will it Waffle: Stuffed Biscuit Waffles

Will it Waffle: Stuffed Biscuit Waffles

Will it Waffle: Stuffed Biscuit Waffles

3 eggs
1 T. milk
1/4 C. shredded cheddar cheese
1 tube refrigerated biscuit dough
salt and pepper, to taste

Heat a medium non-stick skillet over medium low heat. Crack the eggs into a medium bowl and whisk together with the milk. Scramble the eggs until just slightly wet. Stir in the cheese and remove from the heat. Heat the waffle iron and spray with non-stick cooking spray. Butterfly each biscuit by running a sharp knife through the middle of the biscuit just to the other side. Do not fully split the biscuit in half. Stuff the biscuits with the eggs and press the edges to seal the eggs inside. Place a biscuit in the waffle iron and gently close the lid. Don’t press it fully closed. Let cook for one minute. After one minute, fully close the waffle iron and continue cooking for two more minutes. Remove from the waffle iron and continue cooking the remaining biscuits.

Salted Olive Crisps (Croquets Sales Aux Olives)

Salted Olive Crisps (Croquets Sales Aux Olives)


½ C. all-purpose flour
½ C. whole wheat flour
1 tsp. granulated sugar
½ tsp. dried thyme
½ tsp. sea salt
½ tsp. baking soda
½ tsp. black pepper
1 C. buttermilk
â…“ C. almonds, coarsely chopped
â…“ C. pitted olives, coarsely chopped

Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly oil a 9-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper. Whisk flours, sugar, thyme, sea salt, baking soda, and black pepper in a large bowl. Stir in buttermilk. Fold in almonds and olives. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan. Bake for 30 minutes. Remove from oven. Decrease oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Slice loaf into ¼ inch thick slices or thinner, if possible. Lay the slices in a single layer on a parchment lined baking sheet. Bake for another 30 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until both sides are golden brown. Let cool on a wire rack.

Wild Mushroom and Brie Quesadilla

Wild Mushroom and Brie Quesadilla

Wild Mushroom and Brie Quesadilla

1 C. Crimini mushroom, sliced
6 oz. oyster mushroom, sliced (approx. one head)
1 small shallot, diced (approx. 2 T. cooked)
1 T. white wine
1 – 8 oz. package brie
2 T. fresh parsley, chopped
2 T. fresh sage, chopped
2 T. fresh rosemary, chopped
2 T. fresh thyme, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
8 Tortillas

Preheat 10″ sauté pan over medium heat. Add butter and mushrooms in sauce and cook until lightly browned- about 5-7 minutes. Add salt and pepper, shallots and prepared herbs and cook 3 minutes more. Pour wine in pan to deglaze for 2 minutes. Take mixture off heat and strain well in colander. Cool mixture. Place about 2 T. mushroom mixture in center of top half of each tortilla. Cut the cheese in eight slices. Pull slices of cheese apart with your fingers and spread equal portions over mushroom mix. Fold empty tortilla half over half with filling to form half moon shape. Pan fry quesadillas in 10″ nonstick pan with a T. of olive oil until golden brown on each side. Cut each quesadilla into three wedges and serve.

Spicy Herb Roasted Nuts

Spicy Herb Roasted Nuts

1 1/2 C. almonds
1 1/2 C. walnut halves
1 C. hazelnuts
1 C. pecan halves
1/2 C. maple syrup
1/4 tsp. cayenne
1 1/2 tsp. chopped fresh oregano leaves
1 1/2 tsp. chopped fresh sage leaves
1 1/2 tsp. chopped fresh thyme leaves
1 1/2 tsp. chopped fresh rosemary leaves
1 1/2 tsp. chopped fresh savory leaves
1 1/2 tsp. chopped fresh marjoram leaves
3 T. olive oil
About 1 tsp. kosher salt

Mix almonds, walnuts, hazelnuts, pecans, maple syrup, cayenne, oregano, sage, thyme, rosemary, savory, marjoram, and oil in a 10- by 15-inch rimmed pan. Sprinkle nuts with 1 tsp. salt. Bake in a 300° oven, stirring occasionally, until all liquid evaporates and nuts are golden under the skin (break open to test), about 45 minutes. Let cool. Taste and add more salt if desired.

Watermelon Appetizer with chèvre and Anise Hyssop

Watermelon Appetizer with chèvre and Anise Hyssop

16 large anise hyssop leaves plus 1 optional tsp. the plant’s blossoming buds
4 oz. plain chèvre (goat’s-milk cheese)
4 tsp. Crème Fraîche
4 slices cut 1/2-inch thick from a seedless watermelon, rind and white flesh removed
1/4 tsp. flaked sea salt, such as Maldon (may substitute coarse kosher salt)
1 tsp. organic edible flower petals (any combination of anise hyssop blossoms or culinary lavender blossoms, or other edible flowers such as viola, bee balm, borage or bachelor button. Pluck individual petals from the stem.

Cut 4 of the largest anise hyssop leaves into 1/8-inch pieces, then combine in a small bowl with the chevre and creme fraiche. Add up to 1 tsp. the plucked anise hyssop buds, if desired; mix well. Stack the trimmed watermelon slices and cut them into bite-size pieces. Lay the 24 watermelon pieces on a serving tray; use any partial pieces to taste-test the proportions of all the elements. Place a couple of flakes of sea salt on each watermelon piece and taste with some of the chevre; adjust the salt level as desired. Cut the remaining 12 anise hyssop leaves in half lengthwise and offset on each piece of watermelon so the edges will poke out once the chevre mixture is added. Scoop a tsp. the chevre mixture; use a second spoon to push it out on top of each watermelon-leaf piece. Garnish with an individual lavender blossom or other edible flower petal. Serve immediately or cover loosely and refrigerate. Serve within 1 hour.

Yogurt Grahams

Yogurt Grahams

1 graham cracker (large rectangle)
2 tsp. low-fat fruit-flavored yogurt

Break graham cracker in half. Spread yogurt on one half and top with the other. Wrap in plastic wrap and freeze.

Honey Mustard Minion Dip

Honey Mustard Minion Dip

1/2 C. Mayonnaise
2 tsp. Spicy Mustard
2 tsp. Honey
1/2 tsp. Garlic Powder
3 tsp. Vinegar
2 Black Olives
1 Cracker
1 tsp. Mayonnaise (To make the eye)

Mini Garden Pizzas

Mini Garden Pizzas

1 recipe Pizza Dough
2 tablespoons Olive Oil
1 ball Fresh Mozzarella , thinly sliced
½ cup Grape or Cherry Tomatoes, sliced
1 recipe Simple Parsley Gremolata (see below for recipe)
Salt and Pepper, to top
10-12 Fresh Basil Leaves

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees. Divide the dough into 12 equal sections. Shape each section of dough into a ball. Roll each ball into a circle that is 1/8” thick. Place the dough circles spaced 2” apart on parchment-lined baking sheets. Brush the top of each dough circle with olive oil. Top each dough circle with a few slices of fresh mozzarella. Top half of the dough circles with 5-6 tomato slices, each. Add a bit of basil. Sprinkle the remaining half of the pizzas with gremolata (about 1-2 teaspoons, each). Sprinkle the pizzas with salt and pepper. Bake in the preheated oven on the top rack for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and crust is golden brown.

Simple Parsley Gremolata

¼ cup Fresh Parsley, chopped
3 Garlic Cloves, finely minced
Zest of 1 Lemon

Combine all ingredients in a small bowl and mix together. Sprinkle over pizzas, meat, fish, pastas, etc. Store the Gremolata in an airtight container. Keep refrigerated. Will keep for about 1 week.

Owl Lunch

Owl Lunch

1 Babybel
2 Raisins
2 pieces of whole wheat bread (sandwich of choice)
2 Baby Carrots
Pretzel Spoons or Mini Pretzel Twists
1 Pretzel Rod
Kale Chips (or you could use green grapes)

Jicama Sticks

Jicama Sticks

1 red or sweet onion, finely chopped
1 C. cold water
¾ tsp. salt
¼ C. extra-virgin olive oil
2½ tsp. fresh lime juice
1 tsp. sugar
¼ tsp. freshly ground pepper
1½ lbs. jicama, peeled, cut into matchsticks
1/3 C. finely chopped cilantro or parsley

Steps: Soak onion in water with ½ tsp. of the salt, 15 minutes. Drain. Rinse under cold water. Pat dry. Whisk together oil, lime juice, sugar, remaining ¼ tsp. of the salt and pepper in a large bowl until sugar dissolves. Add onion, jicama and cilantro. Toss well. Nutrition information per serving: 97 calories, 62 percent of calories from fat, 7g fat, 1 g saturated fat, 0 mg cholesterol, 9 g carbohydrates, 1 g protein, 222 mg sodium, 4 g fiber

Ultimate Party Crab Bites

Ultimate Party Crab Bites

2 C. breadcrumbs (plus another cup for coating finished balls)
16oz crabmeat
8oz Monterey jack cheese, shredded
8oz cream cheese, at room temperature
3 large eggs
½ C. mayonnaise
1 medium onion, finely diced
1 red bell pepper, finely diced
¼ C. parsley, chopped
2 jalapeno peppers, finely diced
1 T. Old Bay seasoning
1½ tsp. salt
A few cranks of fresh ground black pepper
Vegetable oil for frying

In a large mixing bowl, combine all ingredients (except 1 C. of reserved breadcrumbs). Scoop and form into bite sized balls. Roll balls in breadcrumbs. Place on a large platter and chill for a half of an hour. Heat 1″ of oil in a large frying pan until a deep fry thermometer registers at 350º. Fry the crab bites until golden brown. Drain on paper towels and place on a cookie sheet in a 200º oven to keep them warm while you fry the rest of them up. Serve with cocktail sauce, tartar sauce and lemon wedges. (Remoulade?)

Chewy Chocolate Chip Granola Bars

Chewy Chocolate Chip Granola Bars

6 T. unsalted butter
1/3 C. dark brown sugar
1/4 C. plus 2 T. honey
1-1/2 tsp. vanilla extract
Heaping 1/8 tsp. salt
2 C. quick-cooking/instant oats, such as Quaker Quick 1-Minute Oats (do not use regular old-fashioned oats)
1-3/4 C. crispy rice cereal, such as Rice Krispies
1/2 C. sliced almonds
1/4 C. flax meal or wheat germ
1/3 C. mini chocolate chips (or to taste)

Line a 9 x 13-inch baking pan with aluminum foil. Spray the foil lightly with nonstick cooking spray. In a large pot, combine the butter, brown sugar and honey. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly. Lower the heat and simmer until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is slightly thickened, about 2 minutes. Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the vanilla and salt. Add the oats, rice cereal, almonds and flax meal (or wheat germ) to the pan and fold with a rubber spatula until well combined. Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and press down lightly with a rubber spatula to even out. Sprinkle the miniature chocolate chips over top, adding more or less to suit your taste, and press down firmly with the spatula so the chips stick. The mixture should be tightly compacted in the pan. Place the pan in the refrigerator for 1-1/2 – 2 hours to cool. Use the foil overhang to transfer the uncut bars to a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, cut into rectangles. Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If you have to stack them, be sure to use parchment paper or foil in between the layers, otherwise they’ll stick together and fall apart. Note: If you are substituting dried fruit for the chocolate chips, mix it in along with the other ingredients as opposed to sprinkling over top.

Butternut Squash Chips with Cranberry Toppings

Butternut Squash Chips with Cranberry Toppings

1 ½ lb (1 medium) butternut squash
2/3 T. oil – walnut oil would be nice
2 tsp. finely chopped fresh sage leaves (6–7 leaves)
½ tsp. ground black pepper
½ tsp. finely chopped fresh rosemary
½ tsp. kosher salt
¼ tsp. ground white pepper
2 T. finely chopped dried cranberries
1 T. honey
½ tsp. freshly squeezed lemon juice
Coarse salt, such as Celtic or Maldon sea salt
Fresh rosemary for garnish

Preheat your oven to 350°F, with the racks positioned in the upper and lower thirds. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats and spray or lightly brush them with some of the oil. To prepare the squash, remove about ½ inch from the top and bottom. Divide it into two sections where the neck meets the seed bulb, then remove the skin with a sturdy vegetable peeler or a paring knife. If you plan to use the seed bulb, scoop out the seeds. Cut each section into even, â…› inch slices, about as thick as two stacked quarters. A Mandoline or food processer would be helpful here. If the flesh around the seed bulb is less than ½ inch thick, save it for another use. In a wide pot or deep skillet, bring about 2 quarts of water to a boil. Place a bowl of ice water near your cooktop. Cook the squash in 2 batches, boiling each for 1½ to 2 minutes. Don’t overcook them or they’ll break apart. Carefully scoop the slices into the ice water. Lay the slices on a kitchen towel and pat them completely dry.
In a mixing bowl combine the sage, black pepper, rosemary, salt, and white pepper. Pour the oil into another bowl for brushing. Combine the cranberries, honey, and lemon juice and set the mixture aside. Arrange the slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheets so that they’re close but not touching. Brush them generously with the oil, flip and brush the other side, and then sprinkle them with some of the herb mixture. Bake the slices for 15 minutes, flip them and sprinkle them with more of the seasoning, then rotate the baking pans and return them to the oven on opposite racks. Continue cooking the chips until they’re a deep amber-brown and crisp—10 to 15 minutes longer, depending on thickness. Check the chips frequentl – they can burn quickly – and remove the ones that finish early. Note: The chips will get crisper as they cool. To serve, spread the chips on a platter and drizzle them with the cranberry topping, coarse salt, and fresh rosemary.

You can use other winter squash for this recipe – kabocha, delicata, acorn – but I think the butternut squash was custom-designed for chip-making. Its neck section yields perfect rounds, and its sturdy, dense flesh makes it easy to handle. Look for a squash that has a long, straight neck and a small seed bulb on its end.

Fry. Butternut squash chips fry up nicely in a couple of minutes in hot oil! Par-boil and dry the slices as described above, then follow a basic frying technique

Baked Butternut Squash Chips

Baked Butternut Squash Chips

1 small and skinny butternut squash
2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped (or another herb if you prefer)
kosher salt
pepper
extra virgin olive oil

Preheat oven to 375 degrees and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Peel squash and slice in half lengthwise. Scoop out any seeds in the base of the squash.Using a very sharp knife (or a mandolin if you have it) thinly slice the squash. The thinner, the better. Mine were probably about 1/8 of an inch thick. Once sliced, boil (in batches) for 1-2 minutes. Remove from water and lay flat in a single layer on a paper towel to dry. Pat completely dry and then transfer to baking sheet, making sure the slices don’t overlap at all. Brush with olive oil to coat and sprinkle generously with salt and pepper. Sprinkle chopped rosemary on top and bake for 20 minutes, checking frequently after 10 minutes to make sure they don’t burn. If your slices are thinner than 1/8 of an inch, they won’t need to bake as long. Remove from oven once they start to brown and crisp up and immediately sprinkle with more salt.

Carrot Snack Sticks

Carrot Snack Sticks

1 C. all purpose flour
2 T. parmesan cheese, grated
1/2 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 C. carrot, finely shredded and thin
2 T. canola or vegetable oil

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Combine the first four ingredients and stir to combine. Using your hands, add the carrots to the flour mixture coating the carrot pieces with flour. Add the oil and work with your hands to bring the dough together. (You really have to be patient with working this dough together so that the flour absorbs the oil. If you are concerned that it is not coming together, just add 1 extra tsp of oil to the dough and work it with your hands forming a ball until it comes together.) Form the carrot parmesan dough into a flat rectangular disk and allow to rest for 1-2 minutes then roll out 1/2 inch thick on parchment paper or a dry clean surface. Using a knife, cut the dough into sticks, 2 inches long by 1/4 inch wide. Bake on a Silpat or parchment lined cookie sheet for 15-17 minutes. Cool and serve.

Edit:  I have to say that mine appeared to come out exactly like the picture and such, but although the original recipe had rave reviews from kids.  We didn’t like them much.  VERY bland, and quite dry.  I had no trouble with them holding together, I microplaned the carrot.

Holiday Cherries

Holiday Cherries

Perfect with duck, ham or a cheese course. Or try them over a tart, topped with whipped cream.

2 1/2 pounds sweet cherries
3 1/2 C. red wine vinegar
1 1/2 C. sugar
1 tsp. black peppercorns
4 whole cloves
2 (3-inch) cinnamon sticks
2 bay leaves
1 (10 x 1/2-inch) lemon rind strip

Wash and pat the cherries dry. Pierce each of the cherries several times with a fork; set aside.
Place vinegar and remaining ingredients in a nonaluminum saucepan; bring to a boil, stirring to dissolve sugar. Reduce heat; simmer 5 minutes. Remove from heat; let stand 30 minutes. Strain vinegar mixture through a sieve over a bowl; discard solids. Return vinegar mixture to pan; bring to a boil. Spoon cherries into hot jars; cover with hot vinegar mixture, leaving 1/4-inch head space. Cover jars with metal lids; screw on bands. Cool. Refrigerate at least 2 weeks before serving.

Home-Canned Artichoke Hearts

Home-Canned Artichoke Hearts

You’ll need 3 sanitized pint jars with new lids and rings

Make Ahead: The artichokes need 1 month to cure, during which time their texture changes from firm to velvety while their structure is retained. If you choose to skip the water-bath canning called for here, refrigerate the sealed jars of artichokes for 1 month before serving. (Artichokes that are not water-bath-canned will not achieve the same silky texture as those that are.) The water-bath-canned jars of artichokes need to cool for 12 hours. They are shelf stable for 1 year. Once opened, the jars should be refrigerated and used within a month.

4 lemons
9 medium or 15 baby artichokes
1/4 C. plus 3 tsp. kosher salt or sea salt
1 C. distilled white vinegar, plus more as needed
1/4 C. white wine vinegar
1/4 C. mild olive oil, or more as needed
1 tsp. dried oregano
3/4 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
3 cloves garlic, root ends trimmed
Three 1-inch strips lemon zest

Halve and juice the lemons. Place the spent lemon halves in a 5-quart nonreactive (not aluminum or copper) pot; fill it with cold water. Strain and reserve the juice for the marinade. To trim the artichokes, pull the leaves from each one, snapping them where they naturally break. Use a sharp knife or vegetable peeler to peel the choke, then make a clean cut across the end of the stem, retaining the tender portion. Use a grapefruit spoon, melon baller or side of a tsp. to scrape away the fuzzy choke, revealing the meaty part of it, then quarter the entire choke. (For baby artichokes, trim only to any inner leaves without a thorn.) As each choke is trimmed, drop it into the pot. Add 1/4 C. salt. Bring the pot filled with lemon water and artichokes to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium or medium-low so the water is barely bubbling. Cook, uncovered, until fork-tender, about 10 minutes. Meanwhile, make the marinade: Combine the reserved lemon juice, vinegars, oil, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes and garlic cloves in a small saucepan over high heat. Bring to a boil; cook for 5 minutes, then remove from the heat. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the artichokes to the sanitized jars, dividing evenly and stacking the small ones and first cutting the medium ones into quarters. Tuck them in as tightly as possible without breaking or bruising. Whisk the marinade well and divide among the jars. If there is not enough marinade to cover, add oil as needed to leave 1/2 inch headspace at the top of each jar. Make sure 1 garlic clove, 1 strip of lemon zest and 1 tsp. salt goes into each jar. Run a chopstick or flat plastic knife along the inside of the jar to remove any air bubbles. Clean the rim of each jar with distilled white vinegar to cut residual oils, place the warmed lids on and finger-tighten the rings (not too tight). Process in the boiling water bath for 15 minutes. Turn off the heat and let the jars rest in the pot for 10 minutes. Use tongs to transfer the jars to a clean, folded dish towel to cool over several hours. Store the water-bath-canned jars in a cool space to cure for 1 month.