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Category: Appetizers & Snacks

Pistachio, Blue Cheese & Fig Puff Pastry Twists

Pistachio, Blue Cheese & Fig Puff Pastry Twists

Pistachio, Blue Cheese & Fig Puff Pastry Twists

 

1 package frozen puff pastry, thawed

1 egg

1 T. cold water

3/4 C. fig preserves

3/4 C. crumbled blue cheese

1 1/4 C. pistachios, toasted

 

Preheat the oven to 400ºF. Unfold the puff pastry sheets onto a lightly floured work surface. Roll out both sheets just enough to smooth out the creases (the pastry sheets will only increase in size about an inch on all sides after rolling out). Beat the egg and water and set the egg wash aside. Spread the fig preserve evenly over one pastry sheet. Sprinkle the blue cheese and 3/4 C. pistachios over the preserves. Lay the second pastry sheet over the top. Brush the top of the pastry with the beaten egg. Sprinkle 1/4 C. chopped pistachios over the egg wash, lightly pressing the nuts into the pastry. Turn the pastry over and repeat with the egg wash and remaining pistachios. Cut the pastry across the shortest width into 1/2-inch strips. Twist each strip and lay 1/2-inch apart on a silicone baking mat or parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Bake for 15 minutes or until puffed and golden.

Roasted Red Pepper & Pine Nut Beef Rollups

Roasted Red Pepper & Pine Nut Beef Rollups

Roasted Red Pepper & Pine Nut Beef Rollups

 

2 T. (18 g) pine nuts

1/2 roasted red pepper, drained

2 ounces (55 g) deli roast beef, cut in 3 slices

3 T. (45 g) Boursin cheese

 

Put a small skillet over medium-low heat and stir the pine nuts in it until they’re lightly golden, 4 to 5 minutes. Remove from the heat. Cut your half-roasted red pepper into three long strips.     Lay a slice of roast beef on a plate. Spread a T. of Boursin on it. Lay a strip of red pepper along one end, and sprinkle pine nuts alongside it. Roll the whole thing up with the red pepper and pine nuts in the center. Repeat with the remaining ingredients.

Fried Green Plantains with Avocado Black Bean Salsa

Fried Green Plantains with Avocado Black Bean Salsa

Fried Green Plantains with Avocado Black Bean Salsa

 

Juice of 1 lime or 1/2 lemon

1 large or 2 small garlic cloves, minced

1/4 cup (60 ml) olive oil

1 T. chopped fresh cilantro

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

1 large avocado, diced

1 cup (about 175 grams) diced papaya, mango, or pineapple

1 cup (250 grams) cooked black beans, drained and rinsed

 

3 firm green plantains

Vegetable oil, for frying

Salt

 

Whisk the lime juice, garlic, olive oil, cilantro, and salt and pepper in a small bowl. Put the avocado, papaya, and black beans in a larger bowl. Season with salt and pepper and toss with half of the dressing. Taste for seasoning and set aside. Cut off the ends of each plantain so that a small amount of the inner vegetable is exposed. From here, there are many ways to remove the skin. You might be able to peel it with your fingertips, first making a slit from top to the bottom and opening the plantain from the side. You might find it easier to remove the skin in neat sections if you make a few slits down the side. Or, if you have a tough one, you might just use a sharp knife to pare the peel away. If any green skin remains, scrape it off with your knife. Cut each plantain into six to eight 1-inch pieces. Heat 1 inch of oil in a medium-sized heavy skillet over medium-high heat to 325 degrees. If you don’t have the right kind of thermometer, I find plantains forgiving of inexact frying temperatures. As long as they’re not taking more than 5 minutes in the first frying, or not blackening before 2 minutes, you’re probably in a good-enough range.  Add about one plantain’s worth of pieces to the oil, and cook, turning as needed, until they are just a little bit darker in color and hollow sounding when lifted from the oil and tapped, 3 to 5 minutes. Drain them on a large paper-towel-lined plate. Repeat with the remaining plantains in two batches. Using a heavy skillet or the underside of a can, press down on the still-hot fried plantain chunks until they make 2-to-3-inch flattish discs. Return these to the frying pan a handful at a time, and fry until lightly bronzed, about 1 minute more per side. Drain again, and immediately season with salt. Serve the warm plantains with the salad, with the extra dressing on the side to drizzle over the plantains.

Shell Bean & Microgreens Crostini

Shell Bean & Microgreens Crostini

Shell Bean & Microgreens Crostini

 

1 cup cooked shell beans

½ cup extra virgin olive oil (divided)

¼ cup grated Parmigiano Reggiano

¼ teaspoon grated lemon zest

1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice

Salt and pepper to taste

1½–2 cups microgreens (broccoli, sunflower, or arugula)

1 baguette

1 garlic clove, halved crosswise

 

Add beans to a food processor and pulse until very coarsely chopped. Transfer half of the mixture to a bowl. Add ¼ cup olive oil, cheese, lemon zest and juice, salt, and pepper to the beans and purée until smooth. Empty the mixture into a bowl and gently fold in half the microgreens. Cut baguette into ¼-inch slices and place on a rimmed baking sheet. Brush both sides of the slices using ¼ cup olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Place in 350° oven for about 10 minutes or until golden brown. When the slices are cool enough to handle, rub with cut side of garlic. Cool. Spoon bean mixture onto baguette toasts and top with microgreens.

Beet and Avocado Tartine with Perfect Instant Pot Beets

Beet and Avocado Tartine with Perfect Instant Pot Beets

Beet and Avocado Tartine with Perfect Instant Pot Beets

 

3 to 4 medium-sized beets, see notes

 

3 to 4 cooked beets, skins removed

flaky sea salt, like Maldon, or kosher salt

white balsamic vinegar

1 to 2 ripe avocados

squeeze of lemon

4 slices quinoa-flax bread or other seedy bread

handful or arugula or pea shoots or micro greens

drizzle olive oil

 

Place steamer insert and 1 cup water in the inner pot of your Instant Pot. Place beets on top of steamer insert. Secure lid in place. Turn valve to Sealing.  Select manual, high pressure, and adjust the time to 35 minutes. When the time has lapsed, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then turn the valve to venting, carefully remove the lid, carefully remove the beets. A knife should insert into the flesh of the beet easily. If it doesn’t, return beets to pot and cook 5 to 10 minutes longer. Let beets cool for about 5 minutes or until you are able to handle them. Slice off the root end. Use paper towels to rub off the skin. Thinly slice the beets. I like to do this on a mandoline, but if this makes you nervous, simply slice the beets thinly with a knife. Transfer them to a shallow bowl and while they are still warm, season them with salt and douse them with vinegar. Set them aside. Halve the avocado, remove the pit, transfer the flesh to a bowl and mash with a pinch of sea salt and lemon to taste. Depending on the size of the avocados, you may need 1 or 2. Taste this mixture — it should taste well seasoned, so adjust with salt and lemon as needed. Place slices of bread in a toaster or stick them under the broiler (watching closely) until they are lightly toasted. Spread the avocado mash evenly across each slice of toast. Stack the slices of beets into 3 or 4 small piles. Point the tip of your knife into the center of the top beet on one of the stacks, then slice straight down through the stack. Repeat with the remaining stacks. Twist each beet into a little horn and nestle onto each avocado-smeared slice of toast until each slice of toast is covered with the beets. Sprinkle a tiny amount of greens over each toast. Drizzle with olive oil. Serve.

Garlic Mustard & Olive Oil Bread Dip

Garlic Mustard & Olive Oil Bread Dip

Garlic Mustard & Olive Oil Bread Dip

 

2 cup of leaves Garlic Mustard (and blossoms if available)

1 cup of olive oil (and 3 extra tablespoons)

2 tablespoon of lemon juice

1 tsp. of sea salt

3-4 tablespoons of parmesan cheese (or more if you’d like!)

1 clove garlic (optional if you want it extra garlicky)

Directions

 

Place all your ingredients and half a cup of olive in a food processor. Whirr (blend) to a fine texture, then add another half cup of oil. Pulse till well mixed. Pour into a large, clean jar. Pour over your three tablespoons of additional olive oil to seal off any air from getting into your mixture – keeping it fresher longer. Store in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. Just remember you’ll need to let warm to room temperature first – otherwise it will be a bit waxy.

Grilled Meyer Lemon and Asparagus Pizzettes with Ricotta And Prosciutto

Grilled Meyer Lemon and Asparagus Pizzettes with Ricotta And Prosciutto

Grilled Meyer Lemon and Asparagus Pizzettes with Ricotta And Prosciutto

 

2 garlic cloves, smashed

2-3 Tablespoons olive oil

Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes

4 individual pizza crust(s)

1 pound of thin asparagus spears

2 Meyer lemons*, thinly sliced

1 cup good quality prepared pesto

1 cup ricotta cheese

2 pieces of prosciutto, fried crispy and coarsely chopped

Fresh grated Parmesan Cheese

 

Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Place olive oil, smashed garlic and red pepper flakes in a small bowl and let sit for ten minutes or so, for flavors to infuse. Snap the woody ends off of asparagus and place in a bowl with the lemon slices and drizzle with one about one Tablespoon of the garlic oil and toss to coat. Brush pizza crust or flatbreads (on both sides) with the remaining garlic oil and grill crusts, top sides down until hot and grill marks appear. Remove from grill and place un-grilled side down on a work surface. Add the asparagus and lemon slices to the grill and grill until asparagus is tender and lemon slices are softened and both have nice grill marks. While asparagus and lemon are grilling, spread pesto on each flatbread. Place several dollops of ricotta on pesto; top with asparagus spears (cut to desired lengths, if you want) and lemon slices. Return to the grill, (close the lid) and grill bottom sides and let ricotta melt, for about 2-3 minutes. Top with crispy prosciutto pieces and a bit of grated parm and serve immediately. (I also think grilled artichokes would be great on this pizza!) (* Meyer lemons are seasonal, so if you can’t find them, or it’s out of season, use small, soft skinned lemons)

Tortellini Caprese Bites

Tortellini Caprese Bites

Tortellini Caprese Bites

 

1 (9-oz.) package refrigerated cheese-filled tortellini

3 cups halved grape tomatoes

3 (8-oz.) containers fresh small mozzarella cheese balls

60 (6-inch) wooden skewers

Basil Vinaigrette

Optional, pitted Black Olives

 

Prepare tortellini according to package directions. Rinse under cold running water. Thread 1 tomato half, 1 cheese ball, another tomato half, and 1 tortellini onto each skewer. Place skewers in a 13- x 9-inch baking dish. Pour Basil Vinaigrette over skewers, turning to coat. Cover and chill 2 hours. Transfer skewers to a serving platter, and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. Discard any remaining vinaigrette.

Cucumber Avocado Toast

Cucumber Avocado Toast

Cucumber Avocado Toast

 

2 pieces sourdough bread, toasted

2 tablespoons Rice Vinegar

½ teaspoon Soy Sauce

1 teaspoon Sesame Oil

½ lime, juiced

1 teaspoon olive oil

¼ cucumber, thinly sliced with a mandolin

1 avocado, thinly slices

½ teaspoon sesame seeds

Salt and pepper to taste

 

As your bread is toasting, combine rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, lime juice, and olive oil into a bowl and add the cucumber, tossing to coat. Allow this to sit for 3-5 minutes. Once the toast is toasted to your liking, fan half of the avocado onto each piece of toast. Place marinated cucumber ribbons onto the avocado and drizzle remaining dressing over the top. Sprinkle with salt and pepper and sesame seeds to your taste.

Parmesan, Oregano and Pine Nut Melts

Parmesan, Oregano and Pine Nut Melts

Parmesan, Oregano and Pine Nut Melts

 

2 cups fresh Parmesan cheese finely grated (see notes)

1 T. flour

½ tsp. oregano see notes

1 T. pine nuts

 

Preheat oven to 400F. Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or Silpat mats. If your Parmesan isn’t fine enough, pulse it a few seconds in your food processor. In a large bowl, combine Parmesan, flour and oregano. Place a round cookie cutter on the prepared baking sheet. Carefully sprinkle a tablespoon of cheese mixture into the cutter and smooth the surface. Remove the cutter. Repeat with the remaining mixture, leaving a 1-inch gap between each melt. Sprinkle with pine nuts.

Bake in the oven for 5-7 minutes or until light golden. Transfer to a wire rack to cool. Recipe Notes: For this recipe, pre-grated parmesan will not work. You need to buy a block of parmesan and grate it yourself.

I decided to use only ½ tsp of dried oregano because I wanted the taste to be subtle. Don’t hesitate to use 1 tsp for a stronger flavor.

Crispy Goat Cheese Poppers with Honey

Crispy Goat Cheese Poppers with Honey

Crispy Goat Cheese Poppers with Honey

 

1/3 cup all purpose flour

1/2 tsp. black pepper

1 large egg

1/2 tsp. kosher salt

2/3 cup panko breadcrumbs

1 (11 oz.) log soft goat cheese

for frying:

2 cups oil (grapeseed, canola or veg oil)

for garnish:

1 T. honey

2 T. minced fresh chives

 

In a medium bowl, combine flour and black pepper. In a separate bowl, whisk egg, salt and 2 tablespoons water. In a separate bowl, add panko. Roll goat cheese into 24 (1-Tablespoon size) balls. Roll each ball in flour, then egg, then panko crumbs, coating evenly. Freeze 20 minutes, or until firm. When ready to cook, set a deep saucepan to medium-high heat. Heat oil to 350 degrees F. Fry goat cheese in batches, 1 to 2 minutes, or until golden and crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon to a paper towel lined plate. Arrange goat cheese poppers on a platter. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with chives. Serve immediately.

Cranberry Poblano Salsa

Cranberry Poblano Salsa

Cranberry Poblano Salsa

 

1 red bell pepper

1 poblano chili

1/2 cup sugar, plus more if needed

1/2 cup orange juice

1/4 cup water

12 ounces cranberries

2 T. grated orange peel

1/4 cup chopped toasted pecans

1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Pinch cayenne

Salt

 

Roast the bell pepper and Poblano chile under the broiler until blackened, about 5 minutes per side. Place the peppers in a paper sack or plastic food-storage bag, close it tight and let the chiles steam for 20 minutes. After the chiles have steamed, remove from the bag and rub off the skin. Remove the stems and seeds from the chiles and dice. Meanwhile, place the sugar, orange juice, water, and cranberries into a large saucepan and toss until the sugar is evenly distributed over the cranberries. While occasionally stirring, cook the cranberries over medium-low heat until softened, about 5 minutes. Remove from the heat. Taste and if the cranberries are way too tart for your liking, stir in more sugar, a T. at a time.

Once the peppers are ready, stir them into the cranberry salsa along wit the orange peel, pecans, cilantro, cayenne, and salt. Taste and adjust seasonings. Can serve either warm or chilled. This can be made ahead and will keep 4 days in the refrigerator.

Mascarpone-Stuffed Squash Blossoms with Raspberry Vinaigrette

Mascarpone-Stuffed Squash Blossoms with Raspberry Vinaigrette

Mascarpone-Stuffed Squash Blossoms with Raspberry Vinaigrette

 

¹⁄³ cup fresh raspberries

¹⁄³ cup chopped shallots

¼ cup raspberry vinegar

½ cup olive oil

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

¹⁄³ cup mascarpone cheese

1 tsp. minced canned chipotle chiles in adobo sauce

½ tsp. minced fresh thyme

12 fresh squash blossoms, pistils removed

Vegetable oil, for frying

½ cup all-purpose flour

 

Beer Batter

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 tsp. salt

1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

1 cup dark Mexican beer

 

Combine the raspberries, shallots, and vinegar in a blender or food processor, and process to form a coarse puree. With the machine running, gradually add the olive oil. Season the vinaigrette with salt and black pepper to taste. Set aside.  Mix the mascarpone, chipotle chiles and sauce, and thyme in a small bowl. Season the filling to taste with salt and pepper. Place the filling in a pastry bag fitted with a 1/4-inch tip. Pipe the filling into each squash blossom and twist the blossom at the top to enclose it. Place a medium-size heavy saucepan over medium-high heat and add enough vegetable oil to reach one third of the way up the sides of the pan. Heat the oil to 350°F. Dust the squash blossoms in the flour and then dip them into the beer batter. Working in batches, fry the squash blossoms for 3 minutes, or until they are golden brown. Transfer them to paper towels to drain. Arrange the squash blossoms on a platter, drizzle with the raspberry vinaigrette, and serve. Prep Beer Batter: Mix the flour, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl. Gradually add the beer while whisking. Set the batter aside and let it rest for 15 minutes before using. Tip: No pastry bag? No worries. Put the filling in a plastic bag and cut a 1/4-inch hole in one of the corners.

Ricotta (or cottage cheese) with Tomatoes, Lemon, and Mint

Ricotta (or cottage cheese) with Tomatoes, Lemon, and Mint

Ricotta (or cottage cheese) with Tomatoes, Lemon, and Mint

 

1 large garlic clove, finely chopped

1 T. fresh lemon juice

½ pint grape tomatoes

½ tsp. kosher salt

½ tsp. dried mint

1 T. extra-virgin olive oil

1 cup ricotta or cottage cheese

 

Combine the chopped garlic and lemon juice in a medium bowl; let them hang out while you prep the tomatoes. (The lemon juice will tame the garlic’s bite.) Slice the tomatoes in half lengthwise and add them to the bowl. Stir in the salt, mint, and olive oil and let it sit for a minute or two. Divide the cheese between two bowls and spoon the tomato mixture on top.

Herbed Lemon Cheese

Herbed Lemon Cheese

Herbed Lemon Cheese

 

1 quart whole or 2% milk

¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice

¾ tsp. minced fresh chives

½ tsp. minced Italian parsley

¼ tsp. minced fresh thyme

1 clove garlic, grated

Kosher salt

Freshly ground black pepper

 

Gently heat the milk to 180ºF. Add the lemon juice and stir slowly until the milk separates into curds and whey. Ladle into a cheesecloth-lined fine mesh sieve set over a large bowl. Gather the corners of the cheesecloth together over the curds and tie with butcher’s twine. Let the curds drain in the refrigerator for 4 to 24 hours, or until the desired consistency. Transfer the cheese to a medium bowl, stir in the chives, parsley, thyme, and garlic and season to taste with salt and pepper. Form the cheese into a wheel and wrap in plastic wrap. Refrigerate overnight before serving.

Radish Butter

Radish Butter

Radish Butter

 

2 bunches large red radishes (around 20) grated on the large holes of a box grater

1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil

2 T. finely diced red onion

1 large clove garlic, minced

Salt and pepper to taste

 

After grating the radish, pat with paper toweling to dry it a bit. In a large sauté pan, cook the onion and garlic in the oil for a few minutes to soften. Add the radish and sauté over medium-high heat, stirring often, until the mixture softens and becomes a bit gooey. This will probably take 20 to 30 minutes.

Generously season with salt and add a little pepper. (I used 1 tsp. salt and 1/2 tsp. pepper) Use your judgement Cool and refrigerate for about an hour before serving on crackers, little toasts or cucumbers.

Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings

Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings

Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings

 

12 wings

1/2 stick butter

1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

1 tsp salt

juice from 1/2 lemon

1 tsp garlic salt

parsley

 

Melt together butter,  Parmesan, salt, lemon juice and garlic salt in microwavable bowl for 1 minute (cover with Glad Press ‘n Seal to keep it from splattering). Toss wings in butter sauce. Place wings into air fryer

Sprinkle with additional garlic salt. Heat in Air Fryer at 350  for 11 min. Open Air Fryer and turn all wings and rotate them in the fryer. Heat in Air Fryer at 400 for 10 min more. Sprinkle with parsley.

Fried Squash Blossoms with Mint and Goat Cheese

Fried Squash Blossoms with Mint and Goat Cheese

Fried Squash Blossoms with Mint and Goat Cheese

 

For the blossoms:

 

14 to 16 large zucchini squash blossoms

3/4 cup/6 ounces fresh soft goat cheese or whole-milk ricotta

1/2 cup/4 ounces mascarpone or crème fraîche

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided

1 to 2 T. fresh chopped mint and basil, plus more for garnish

Sea salt and fresh ground black pepper, to taste

 

For the Batter and Frying:

 

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 cup cornstarch

1 tsp. baking powder

1/4 tsp. salt

1 egg, lightly beaten

About 1/2 cup chilled seltzer or other unflavored sparkling water

About 3/4 cup vegetable oil, for frying

Optional: fresh tomato sauce, for serving

 

Carefully open each blossom and remove stamen; set aside. Combine goat cheese (or ricotta) with mascarpone (or crème fraîche) and 1/4 cup of the Parmesan. Stir in mint and basil and season with salt and pepper. Gently stuff blossoms with cheese-herb mixture, twisting end of blossom to close. NOTE: You might have some cheese mixture leftover; if so, stir into a pasta sauce or spread on toast and eat with tomatoes. Make batter by combining flour, cornstarch, and baking powder with remaining 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese. Whisk in beaten egg and sparkling water, adding a bit at a time, until batter is well-combined and is the consistency of heavy cream or a loose pancake batter. Pour oil to about a half inch into a large (10-inch) heavy skillet and heat to about 365° (or until oil begins to shimmer but not smoke; add a bit of batter to test oil. The batter should bubble and float). Fry blossoms, in two batches, if necessary, turning over once until golden, about 2 minutes total time. Place on a paper-towel-lined cooling rack or plate. Sprinkle while hot with a bit of Parmesan or salt, such as Maldon or other finishing salt. If serving with sauce, spoon some fresh tomato sauce on bottom of plate and top with squash blossoms. Eat at once.  Notes: To prepare blossoms, gently open the blossom (they might tear, but that’s OK) and pull out stamen. Rinse gently and place in a paper towel-lined colander. Pat dry.

Fritto Misto of Fiddleheads, Ramps and Asparagus with Meyer Lemon Aioli

Fritto Misto of Fiddleheads, Ramps and Asparagus with Meyer Lemon Aioli

Fritto Misto of Fiddleheads, Ramps and Asparagus with Meyer Lemon Aioli

 

1 large or 2 small garlic cloves

1 tsp. kosher salt

1 large egg

1 large egg yolk

1 cup extra-virgin olive oil

Finely grated zest of 1 Meyer lemon

2 T. fresh Meyer lemon juice

4 quarts peanut or vegetable oil

3 C. unbleached all-purpose flour

1 cup cake flour

1 large egg

2 C. buttermilk

1/2 tsp. kosher salt, plus more to taste

1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

1 1/2 to 2 pounds mixed fiddleheads, ramps (or green onions) and asparagus, cleaned and patted dry

 

Place the oil in a 6- to 8-quart pot and heat it to 375°F. Sift together the all-purpose and cake flours and place them in a wide bowl or on a platter. Whisk together the egg, buttermilk, salt, and pepper in a large shallow bowl. While the oil is healing, prepare the vegetables, making sure that they are dry before coating. To avoid gluey fingers, use one hand for wet dipping and the other for dry. Working with a few pieces of the vegetables at a time, dip them into the buttermilk mixture, coating them well. Lift them out, letting the excess buttermilk drip off, then drop them into the flour mixture, working quickly to coat them evenly with the flour. Shake off any excess flour and lay the vegetables in a single layer on a large parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Continue until all die vegetables are coated. When the oil is hot, carefully add the vegetables to the pot but do not overcrowd. Fry until golden brown, 2 to 3 minutes. Give the vegetables a stir as they fry, turning any that are browning unevenly. Using a slotted spoon or flat strainer, remove the vegetables and place on a paper towel-lined baking sheet. Sprinkle with salt. Hold in a warm place while frying the rest of the vegetables. Be sure to bring the oil back up to temperature before adding the next batch. Serve warm with the Meyer Lemon Aioli.   Note: Coating 20-25 minutes ahead of time makes the coating adhere better when frying.

 

Meyer Lemon Aioli

 

½ C. EVOO

½ C. Olive Oil

1 lg. Garlic Clove

1 tsp. Salt

1 Egg

1 Egg Yolk

Zest from Meyer Lemon

2 T. fresh Meyer Lemon Juice

 

Combine the extra virgin olive oil and the pure olive oil in a measuring cup with a spout. Place the garlic and salt in the bowl of a food processor. Process until the garlic is finely minced and beginning to liquefy. Add the whole egg and egg yolk. Process for 30 seconds. With the machine running, slowly begin to drizzle in the oil. As the mixture thickens, the oil can be added a little more quickly. Add the lemon zest and lemon juice and process briefly to mix in. Taste for seasoning and adjust as needed. If the aioli is too stiff, add water in ½ tsp. increments to thin.

Tahini Fruit Drip

Tahini Fruit Drip

Tahini Fruit Drip

 

1 cup plain 2 percent Greek yogurt

3 T. tahini

3 T. honey

Coarse salt

Ground cinnamon

Sliced fruit, such as apples, bananas, strawberries, and mango, for serving

 

Stir together yogurt, tahini, honey, a pinch of coarse salt, and a large pinch of cinnamon. Serve with sliced fruit.

Morels And Brick Cheese on Rye, With Ramp Leaf Aioli

Morels And Brick Cheese on Rye, With Ramp Leaf Aioli

Morels And Brick Cheese on Rye, With Ramp Leaf Aioli

2 slices caraway rye bread sliced 1/2 inch

Room temperature unsalted butter as needed

1.5 ounces fresh whole morel mushrooms rinsed, cleaned, and inspected for debris on the inside.

Kosher salt and pepper

1 T. Lard other animal fat, or high heat cooking oil such as grapeseed

1.5 ounces brick cheese sliced

1 tsp. chopped fresh ramp bulbs

1 recipe ramp leaf aioli follows

 

Spread each side of bread with butter. Place the bread buttered side down in the cast iron pan. Arrange the cheese slices on the bread and cook on low-medium heat, until the bread is nicely toasted and the cheese is melting. In a separate pan, heat the lard or grapeseed oil until lightly smoking, add the morels and cook over medium high heat until brown and caramelized, about 4-5 minutes. Add a tsp. of butter to the pan, then add the ramps. When the morels are totally cooked, season with salt and pepper. Allow the morels to drain on a paper towel briefly to shed excess oil if needed. Place the morels on top of the cheese on one slice of bread, top each with some of the ramps from the pan, then add a T. of the ramp leaf aioli. Place the other slice of bread on top of the slice with the morels and sauce. Press the sandwich lightly to make it stick together.

 

 

Ramp Leaf Aioli

 

1 ounce fresh wild garlic leaves about 10 large leaves

Kosher salt and pepper to taste

1 cup mayonnaise preferably homemade

1 tsp. champagne vinegar

 

Bring a pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add the wild garlic leaves and cook for 5 seconds, until just wilted. Immediately refresh the ramp leaves in an ice bath to preserve their color. Squeeze the leaves dry in a towel, then mince finely. Puree the leaves in a highspeed blender or a food processor with the mayonnaise.  Afterwards, pass the sauce through the chinois or mesh strainer to remove any stringy leaf particles and give it a velvety texture (optional). Stir in the champagne vinegar, season to taste with salt and pepper and reserve until needed.

Fritto Misto of Ramps, Asparagus, Fiddleheads with Citrus Mint Aioli

Fritto Misto of Ramps, Asparagus, Fiddleheads with Citrus Mint Aioli

Fritto Misto of Ramps, Asparagus, Fiddleheads with Citrus Mint Aioli

4 C. canola oil

2 C. all-purpose flour

¼ cup cornstarch

1 tsp. baking soda

1 tsp. baking powder

1 tsp. salt

Zest of 1 lemon

Zest of 1 lime

½- 1 cup ice cold club soda, diluted with 2 T. lemon juice

1 ½ to 2 pounds mixed fiddleheads, ramps (or green onions) and asparagus, cleaned and dried

Maldon salt, to season

Citrus Mint Aioli, to serve (recipe follows)

 

Place the oil in a 6- to 8-quart pot and heat it to 375ËšF. In a large bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and baking powder. Add salt and citrus zest and mix well. Slowly add in water or club soda until the consistency is like a loose pancake batter. Once the oil has come to temperature, working with a few pieces of the vegetables at a time, dip them into the batter, coating them well and letting the excess drip off, before adding to hot oil. Working in batches, place vegetables in oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pot and fry until golden brown, 2 to 3 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, remove the vegetables and place on a paper towel-lined baking sheet. Sprinkle with maldon salt. Hold in a warm place while frying the rest of the vegetables. Be sure to bring the oil back up to temperature before adding the next batch. Serve warm with the citrus mint aioli.

 

Citrus Mint Aioli

 

2 cloves garlic, chopped

1 tsp. kosher salt

1 large egg

1 large egg yolk

¼ cup fresh mint, chopped

Juice and zest of 1 lemon

Juice and zest of 1 lime

½ cup canola oil

½ cup extra virgin olive oil

 

Place garlic, salt, egg and egg yolk in a blender and blend until smooth. Add mint and combine. Slowly stream in half the oil and then add citrus juice and zest and then continue to add the rest of the oil until thick and emulsified. Adjust with salt, if needed. Serve with fritto misto.

Wild Foraged Black Trumpet Mushroom Spread

Wild Foraged Black Trumpet Mushroom Spread

Wild Foraged Black Trumpet Mushroom Spread

1 T. Ghee or butter

2 T. Garlic Scapes or shallots

1/2 cup coarsely chopped Black Trumpet Mushrooms (cleaned)

8 ounce Cream Cheese (organic, cultured)

1 pinch Sea Salt to taste

1 pinch White Pepper to taste

 

In a skillet over medium/low heat, sauté garlic scapes in ghee until soft. Add in black trumpet mushrooms continue sautéing until mushrooms are cooked through and any liquid is evaporated. Reduce heat to low, add cream cheese (cut or scooped into roughly 1 T. sized chunks). Stirring constantly until the cream cheese is melted and mixed thoroughly. Transfer to a an air tight jar or container and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours prior to allow the flavors to come together. Remove dip from at the refrigerator roughly 30 minutes prior to serving to allow it to warm to room temperature. Serve with crackers, toasted bread or raw vegetables. Notes: Use 1 ounce dried Black Trumpets that have been reconstituted in warm water in place of the fresh.

Roasted Butternut Squash and Mushrooms with Burrata

Roasted Butternut Squash and Mushrooms with Burrata

Roasted Butternut Squash and Mushrooms with Burrata

 

2 T. unsalted butter, plus more if needed

2 T. extra-virgin olive oil

5 cup 1-inch cubes butternut squash (about 2 1/2 pounds)

 

2 T. unsalted butter, plus more if needed

2 T. extra-virgin olive oil

5 cup 1-inch cubes butternut squash (about 2 1/2 pounds)

6 T. unsalted butter

1 T. minced fresh sage

2 T. balsamic vinegar

2 T. unsalted butter, plus 1/2 T. if needed

2 T. extra-virgin olive oil

3 1/2 cup mushrooms, any variety, preferably wild

2 cup shallots, thinly sliced

12 ounce (3 balls) burrata

 

Baking Directions: Preheat the oven to 400º F. Heat a large ovenproof skillet over high heat and add the butter and the olive oil. When the butter foams, add the squash and cook, shaking the pan occasionally, until caramelized and lightly browned, about 3 minutes. Slide the pan into the oven and roast until a deeper brown on the edges, about 20 minutes. For the vinaigrette: Heat a small sauté pan over medium heat, add the butter, and when it foams, brown the sage for just a minute, and then pour in the vinegar and let it reduce by half. Don’t stir or touch it. Just keep it at a simmer, gently reducing until thickened. When it’s the consistency of a light syrup, add the salt. Turn off the heat but leave the pan on the stove while you sauté the mushrooms. Heat a medium sauté pan or skillet over medium-high heat and add the 2 T. butter and 2 T. olive oil. When the butter foams, add the mushrooms and sauté until they begin to release their water, about 8 minutes. Add the shallots to the pan and sauté until brown, 3 to 4 minutes, tossing so they cook evenly. Season with salt and pepper and add another 1/2 T. of butter if they look dry. Divide the squash and the mushrooms evenly among 6 plates. Tear the burrata into pieces, scattering them over the vegetables. Drizzle with the vinaigrette.

Crispy Lemon Parmesan Zucchini Chips with Basil Aioli

Crispy Lemon Parmesan Zucchini Chips with Basil Aioli

Crispy Lemon Parmesan Zucchini Chips with Basil Aioli

 

2 medium zucchini, sliced 1/4 inch thick

1/2 C. flour

2 eggs, lightly beaten

2 C. panko breadcrumbs

1/2 C. parmigiano reggiano (parmesan), grated

1 T. lemon zest

salt and pepper to taste

1/2 C. mayonnaise

1/4 C. basil

 

Dredge the zucchini slices in flour, dip them in the egg, and coat them in the mixture of the breadcrumb, parmesan, lemon zest, salt and pepper. Fry the coated zucchini slices in oil until lightly golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side or place them on a wire rack on a baking pan, spray lightly with oil and bake in a preheated 425F/220C oven until lightly golden brown, about 15-20 minutes. Puree the mayonnaise and basil and serve with the zucchini chips.

Pan-Fried Feta with Thyme and Greek Marinated Olives

Pan-Fried Feta with Thyme and Greek Marinated Olives

Pan-Fried Feta with Thyme and Greek Marinated Olives

 

Greek Marinated Olives

1/2 C. extra-virgin olive oil

6 garlic cloves

4 bay leaves

2 sprigs fresh thyme

1/2 tsp. dried fennel seeds

Zest of 1 lemon, peeled in strips with a vegetable peeler

2 C. mixed olives (I like kalamata and green olives)

Crushed red pepper flakes

 

1 large egg, beaten

1/3 C. panko bread crumbs

1 (10- to 12-ounce) block feta cheese

2 T. extra-virgin olive oil

2 sprigs fresh thyme

Freshly ground black pepper

Crushed red pepper flakes

Grilled naan, heirloom tomatoes, and fresh basil leaves, for serving

 

Marinate the olives. In a small saucepan, combine the olive oil, garlic, bay leaves, thyme, and fennel. Bring the oil to a simmer over medium-low heat, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes, until fragrant. Remove the pan from the heat. Stir in the lemon zest and olives. Season with red pepper flakes. (The olives can be prepared up to 1 week in advance and stored in a glass jar in the fridge.) Make the feta. Pour the beaten egg into a shallow medium bowl. Put the panko in a separate shallow medium bowl. Dip the block of feta in the egg, coating all sides completely, then remove and allow any excess egg to drip off. Place the block of feta in the panko, pressing the crumbs gently to adhere. In a medium skillet, heat the olive oil over medium. When it shimmers, add the feta and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, or until golden. Transfer the feta to a serving platter and garnish with fresh thyme, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Serve warm, with the marinated olives, naan, and tomatoes alongside.

Tostones (Fried Green Plaintains)

Tostones (Fried Green Plaintains)

Tostones (Fried Green Plaintains)

 

4 green plantains

1 cup vegetable or canola oil, or as needed

2 cups water

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 T. kosher salt, plus more to top

Juice of 1 lime

Mojo Verde or other sauces, to serve (optional)

 

Cut the ends off of each plantain and use a knife to cut through the skin of the plantain, lengthwise, from top to bottom. Try to only to cut through the skin, as you don’t want to slice into the inner portion, which will form the tostones. Use your fingers to pry open and peel off the tough outer skin. Discard the skin of the plantains. Cut the plantains into pieces, about 1″ thick. Fill a large, heavy-bottomed skillet about a third of the way with oil. Heat over medium for a few minutes to warm up the oil just slightly. Meanwhile, in a large bowl, combine the water, garlic, kosher salt, and lime juice. Set aside. Add the plantain slices to the oil. The oil should be just warm enough that it begins to lightly bubble shortly after adding the plantains but should not bubble vigorously. Fry the plantains until softened and golden all over, about 4 minutes on each side. Use a slotted spoon or tongs to transfer to a paper towel lined plate. Using the bottom of a glass, plate, or can, gently flatten each fried plantain piece. Smash them just enough that they flatten out, but don’t try to make them too thin, or they will break apart. Dip the flattened plantain coin in the garlic-lime water. Let it sit for about 10 seconds, then remove from the water and gently pat dry with a paper towel. Repeat with remaining fried plantains. When nearly ready to serve, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add the flattened plantains back to the oil in batches and briefly fry to crisp, about 1 minute per side. Remove with a slotted spoon and transfer to a paper towel lined plate. Sprinkle with salt. Serve with Mojo Verde or other sauces, if desired.

Zucchini Garlic Bites

Zucchini Garlic Bites

Zucchini Garlic Bites

1 C. zucchini grated and drained well

1 egg

1/3 C. breadcrumbs

1/4 C. Parmesan cheese grated fine

1 clove garlic grated fine

2 T. fresh chives chopped

1 T. fresh parsley chopped

1 tsp. fresh basil chopped

1 tsp. fresh oregano chopped

pinch of salt and pepper

tomato sauce for dipping

 

Preheat oven to 400F. Lightly coat a baking sheet with olive oil or non-stick spray. Set aside. Use a box grater to grate the zucchini into a clean towel. Roll up the towel and twist to wring out the moisture. Grate the garlic using the small holes on the box grater. In a medium bowl, combine all of the ingredients and mix well. Shape a T. of the mixture into your hands, pat into small balls, and place on the baking sheet. Bake for 15-18 minutes in the preheated oven until golden. Serve warm with marinara sauce.

Makes 16 bites. Each has about 25-30 calories.

Red Pepper Triangles with Italian Relish

Red Pepper Triangles with Italian Relish

Red Pepper Triangles with Italian Relish

 

5 red bell peppers

2 T. olive oil

Coarse salt and ground pepper

2 ounces thinly sliced prosciutto, cut into thin strips

1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley

1/4 cup chopped, pitted Kalamata olives

1/2 tsp. grated lemon zest plus

1 T. juice

1/4 tsp. red pepper flakes

 

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment. Cut tops and bottoms from peppers, then half lengthwise. Use a chef’s knife to remove ribs and seeds. Cut peppers into rectangular planks, each about 3 inches long and 2 inches wide, then cut diagonally into 24 triangles. On prepared sheet, toss bell pepper with 1 T. oil; season with salt and pepper. Arrange skin-side down in a single layer and bake until just tender, 15 to 20 minutes; set aside to cool. Meanwhile, in a small bowl, combine prosciutto, parsley, olives, remaining T. oil, lemon zest and juice, and red-pepper flakes. Top each pepper triangle with relish. Note:  Make sure to take the peppers out of the oven before they get too soft. They should still be firm enough to hold the toppings. To store, refrigerate roasted peppers and relish separately, up to one day.

French Onion Tart

French Onion Tart

French Onion Tart

 

Pastry

2 C. all-purpose flour

1/2 tsp. kosher salt

1 T. sugar

12 T. cold unsalted butter, diced (1 1/2 sticks)

1/2 C. ice water

 

Onion Topping

1 C. gruyere cheese, shredded (4 oz)

1 1/2 tsp. fresh thyme, minced

2 tsp. fresh chives, minced

1 1/4 lb. sweet onions, (about 3 medium onions)

1 T. heavy cream

3 T. unsalted butter, diced

1 tsp. kosher salt

 

Place the flour, salt, and sugar in the bowl of a food processor fitted with the steel blade. Pulse for a few seconds to combine. Add the butter and pulse 10 to 12 times, until the butter is in small bits the size of peas. With the motor running, pour the ice water down the feed tube and pulse just until the dough starts to come together. Dump onto a floured board and knead quickly into a ball. Wrap in plastic and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.  Preheat the oven to 400 degrees and line a sheet pan with parchment paper. Roll the dough between two sheets of lightly floured wax paper, slightly larger than 10 x 14 inches. Using a ruler and a small knife, trim the edges. Place the dough on the prepared sheet pan and refrigerate while you prepare the onions. Sprinkle the rolled pastry with the cheese right to the edges. Sprinkle with thyme and chives. Peel, halve, and very thinly slice the onions into half-moons, keeping the moons intact. Place the onion half-moons on the pastry in diagonal lines, just barely overlapping and brush lightly with cream. Dot with the butter and sprinkle with salt.  Bake for 40 mins or until the tart is golden and browned. Cover the edges with foil if the tart is getting too brown during baking. Let cool slightly and cut into squares to serve. Serve warm or at room temperature. Recipe Notes: The dough comes together in minutes in your food processor and can be made well in advance and frozen until you’re ready to use it.

There’s no pre-cooking of the onions on the stove like many onion tarts require. They’re simply sliced thin and arranged over a sprinkling of grated cheese and herbs and baked until golden brown and caramelized. The tart can be sliced into squares, strips, or wedges, but no matter how you slice it (yes I went there), it’s just plain delicious. Tart can be served right out of the oven or at room temperature, which makes it ideal for parties.

 

Cheese in a Jar

Cheese in a Jar

Cheese in a Jar

Throughout the Mediterranean, cheesemakers have traditionally preserved their fresh cheeses in jars of olive oil, often with the addition of wild herb branches. It is a glorious snack to make at home. After only a few days in a flavorful marinade, it’s ready to eat with a good crusty loaf or with Real Garlic Toast. Make sure to get a little herby oil in each bite. Cheese in a jar is handy to take on a picnic too—and just as nice for an indoor picnic at the kitchen table.

 

1/2 pound fresh goat cheese log or mild feta

A few thyme branches

A few rosemary sprigs

A bay leaf

2 garlic cloves, halved

A few black peppercorns

About 1 C. olive oil

 

Slice the cheese into 2-inch chunks. Carefully layer the cheese in a clean jar or glass bowl, adding the thyme branches, rosemary sprigs, bay leaf, garlic, and peppercorns as you go. Pour over enough olive oil to cover. Seal tightly and refrigerate for at least several days before serving. This keeps, refrigerated, for up to 1 month.

Cheese Apple and Nut Butter Roll Ups

Cheese Apple and Nut Butter Roll Ups

Cheese Apple and Nut Butter Roll Ups

 

4 thin slices (1/4 lb.) swiss or muenster cheese, at room temperature

1/2 large apple (3 oz) thinly sliced

1 T. macadamia nut butter or 2 tsp. unsweetened peanut butter

 

Place the cheese on a cutting board. Arrange the apple slices in a horizontal row 1″ from the narrow end of each cheese slice, roll up, and drizzle or spread with the nut butter. Secure with toothpicks.

 

Makes 4 servings

Calories: 143,

Fat 11g

Fiber 1g

Baked Feta with Chickpeas and Greens

Baked Feta with Chickpeas and Greens

Baked Feta with Chickpeas and Greens

 

2 T. olive oil, plus more for drizzling

1 tsp. cumin seeds (optional)

1 large or 2 small bunches kale (about 8 ounces total), stems removed and leaves torn into bite-size pieces, washed, and shaken dry (there should be a little water still clinging to the leaves)

3 cups Simple Tomato Sauce

1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained

1 T. fresh lemon juice, plus additional wedges for serving

Kosher salt

1 (12-ounce) block feta, cut into ½-inch-thick slices

Freshly ground black pepper

Warm pitas or crusty baguette slices, for serving

 

Preheat the oven to 350°F.  Heat a 14-inch oven-safe skillet over medium heat and add the oil. When the oil’s hot, add the cumin seeds (if you’re using them) and let them sizzle gently for a minute or two. Add the kale in batches, letting each handful shrink and wilt before adding the next. When the last of the kale has wilted, add the tomato sauce, chickpeas, lemon juice, and ½ cup water. Give everything a stir and let it come to a simmer. Taste the sauce for salt and add a little if needed. (Whether it needs it will depend on how salty your tomato sauce is, but keep in mind that the feta is salty, too.) Nestle the feta slices into the sauce and give them a few good grinds of black pepper. Slide the skillet into the oven and bake until the feta has softened, about 15 minutes. Drizzle a little olive oil over the whole thing and serve with warm bread and lemon wedges.

Pepperoni Bread

Pepperoni Bread

Pepperoni Bread

 

13.8 ounces package refrigerated pizza dough

6 ounces sliced pepperoni

8 ounces sliced provolone cheese

3 T. butter

1 tsp. garlic powder

1 tsp. Italian seasoning

 

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. and prepare a rimmed baking sheet by spraying it with cooking spray.

Remove the pizza dough from the canister and roll it out onto a lightly floured surface or parchment so that it measures into a rectangle about 10 X 15 – inches. Beginning at one of the longer ends, place the pepperoni in an overlapping layer down the length of the dough. Tear a few of the provolone slices in half and place over the pepperoni. Pull the dough up from under the pepperoni and roll it over the cheese so that it sticks to the dough beyond the pepperoni. Repeat adding the pepperoni and cheese and rolling until you have completely rolled the dough. Place the roll seam side down onto the prepared rimmed baking sheet. You may have to curve it so that it fits. In a microwavable-safe bowl, melt the butter for about 30 seconds. Mix in the garlic powder and Italian seasoning. Brush completely over the Pepperoni Bread. Bake for 20 – 25 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove to a large cutting board to set for about 3 – 5 minutes before cutting to serve.

Blood Orange Ricotta Toast

Blood Orange Ricotta Toast

Blood Orange Ricotta Toast

 

2 blood oranges

2/3 cup whole milk ricotta cheese

1/2 tsp. vanilla extract

2 1-inch thick slices brioche bread

2 T. melted butter

Honey

Flaky sea salt

 

Cut off the top and bottom of each blood orange just until the pulp is exposed. Stand the blood orange up on one of the flat ends. Working from top to bottom, cut away the peel and pith, following the curve of the fruit. Cut the fruit into slices and set aside. In a small food processor, blitz together ricotta and vanilla until mostly smooth. You can also just mix them together in a bowl, but it won’t be as smooth. Warm a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Brush both sides of the brioche with melted butter. Place brioche in the skillet, and cook until golden and charred in spots on each side (about 1 to 2 minutes per side). To assemble, top each slice of toast with an even layer of ricotta. Arrange blood orange slices on top of the ricotta, then finish with a drizzle of honey and a sprinkling of sea salt. Enjoy immediately!

Shrimp Fritters with Chili-Lime Dipping Sauce

Shrimp Fritters with Chili-Lime Dipping Sauce

Shrimp Fritters with Chili-Lime Dipping Sauce

 

3 red Fresno, or jalapeno chiles

1 red bell pepper

1 T. firmly packed brown sugar

1 T. champagne vinegar

3/4 tsp. salt

Freshly ground pepper

1 cup canola oil

Juice of 1 lime

 

Canola oil, for deep-frying

156 pounds peeled and deveined shrimp, chopped

1 small yellow onion, finely minced

1 large red bell pepper, seeded and finely minced

1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

2 large eggs

5 T. seltzer

5 T. freshly squeezed lime juice

1 T. Salt

Pepper

1 ½ C. Pastry Flour

 

TO MAKE THE DIPPING SAUCE, place the chiles and the bell pepper in a dry cast-iron frying pan over high heat. Cook, turning as needed, for about 15 minutes, or until the skin is blackened and blistered on all sides. Or, blacken and blister the chiles and pepper under a preheated broiler, watching carefully to avoid burning the flesh. Transfer the blackened chiles and pepper to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let stand for 10 minutes. Remove from the bowl and let cool to room temperature. Peel the bell pepper, cut in half, and discard the seeds. Reserve half of the pepper for another use. Peel the chiles but do not seed. Chop the chiles and pepper coarsely. In a blender, combine chopped chiles and pepper, sugar, vinegar, salt, and a few grinds of pepper and process until smooth. With the blender running, add the oil slowly, about 1 T. at a time, and process until emulsified. Then add the lime juice and process until blended. Taste and adjust the seasoning. TO MAKE THE FRITTERS, pour the oil to a depth of 3 to 3½ inches into a deep fryer or deep, heavy-bottomed pot and heat to 375°F. While the oil is heating, in a bowl, combine the shrimp, onion, bell pepper, cilantro, eggs, seltzer, lime juice, salt, and a few grinds of pepper and stir until well combined. Add the flour and mix well. When the oil is ready, work in batches, cooking 6 to 8 fritters at a time, to avoid crowding. To form each fritter, drop 1 T. of the batter into the hot oil. Fry the fritters for 2 to 3 minutes, or until golden brown. Using a slotted spoon, transfer to paper towels to drain. Keep warm while you fry the remaining fritters. Serve immediately on a platter or individual plates with the dipping sauce on the side.

Zucchini Quesadilla

Zucchini Quesadilla

Zucchini Quesadilla

 

4 T. olive oil

1 onion, coarsely chopped

Salt

4 cloves garlic, minced

2 medium zucchini (about 1 lb.), halved lengthwise and thinly sliced crosswise

1 cup frozen corn kernels (4 ounces)

1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

4 (8-inch) flour tortillas

2 C. grated pepper jack cheese

 

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. In a large skillet, heat 3 T. oil over medium heat. Add onion and 1 tsp. salt; cook, stirring occasionally, until onion is soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic; cook 1 minute more. Add zucchini and frozen corn kernels; cook, stirring occasionally, until zucchini is soft and corn is tender, about 6 minutes. Remove from heat; stir in cilantro, if using. Brush one side of all tortillas with remaining T. oil; lay 2 tortillas, oiled side down, on a baking sheet. Place half of the filling on each, and sprinkle with half the cheese. Place remaining 2 tortillas on top, oiled side up; press down gently with a spatula to seal. Bake until cheese has melted and tortillas are golden brown, turning once, about 10 minutes. Remove from oven; let cool slightly. To serve, slice each quesadilla into wedges.

Herbed Ricotta Dip

Herbed Ricotta Dip

Herbed Ricotta Dip

 

2 cups ricotta cheese

1 clove garlic

2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil plus more to drizzle over dip when served

1 tsp. coarse salt

1/2 tsp. white pepper

1/2 lemon (zest of) and 1 tbsp of the juice

1 bunch fresh herbs (such as oregano, thyme, basil, dill, chives, garlic chives, mint etc.) or 1 heaping tbsp dried herbs (Italian mix or Herbs de Provence)

1-2 cured anchovy fillet (optional)*

1-2 preserved lemon rinds, thin strip(s) (optional)*

 

Mince the garlic and finely chop the fresh herbs. If using anchovy and/or preserved lemon rind, press into a paste using a small fork or pestle and mortar.

Place the ricotta in a mixing bowl and add the rest of the ingredients. Mix and taste to assess flavor. Adjust herbs, olive oil, seasoning to taste, transfer to a serving dish and drizzle with a bit of olive oil before serving.  *These two ingredients if mashed into a paste and folded into the dip add umami depth and really boost the flavor base of the dip. Feel free to increase the quantities to taste.

 

Other optional ingredients: sun dried tomatoes, roasted garlic, smoked paprika, olive tapenade, grated Parmesan or Pecorino.

 

Yield: 6 servings

Calories:  218

Fat: 15g

Fiber: 1g