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Category: Appetizers & Snacks

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

Herb Whipped Cream Cheese

Herb Whipped Cream Cheese

Herb Whipped Cream Cheese

 

8 oz [230 g] cream cheese, at room temperature

2 T. milk

1/4 tsp. kosher salt

1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

2 T. chopped fresh basil leaves

2 T. chopped fresh chives

1 T. chopped fresh dill

1 tsp. grated lemon zest

 

Place the cream cheese, milk, salt, and pepper in a food processor. Process until the mixture is whipped and creamy, about 30 seconds. Add the basil, chives, dill, and lemon zest and pulse to combine.

 

ROASTED GARLIC AND HERB: Replace the lemon zest with several cloves of smashed roasted garlic.

 

MAPLE CINNAMON: Replace 1 Tbsp of the milk with maple syrup and add 1/4 tsp of cinnamon in place of the lemon zest and herbs.

Pepperoni Pizza Puffs

Pepperoni Pizza Puffs

Pepperoni Pizza Puffs

 

3/4 cup flour

3/4 tsp. baking powder

1 T. Italian seasoning

pinch of salt (my addition, optional)

pinch of red pepper flakes (my addition, optional)

3/4 cup whole milk

1 egg, lightly beaten

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup cubed pepperoni

1/2 cup pizza sauce

 

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Grease a 24-cup mini-muffin pan. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, Italian seasoning, salt and red pepper flakes (if using), whisk in the milk and egg. Stir in the mozzarella, Parmesan, and pepperoni; let stand for 10 minutes. Stir the batter and divide among the mini-muffin C.. Bake until puffed and golden, 20 to 25 minutes. Meanwhile, microwave the pizza sauce until warmed through. Serve the puffs with the pizza sauce for dipping.  NOTE: All my batter did not fit into the 24-mini muffin pan. I made a full size muffin with the leftover batter. Some pans are larger than others so you may not have an issue.

Mushroom and Ricotta Bruschetta

Mushroom and Ricotta Bruschetta

Mushroom and Ricotta Bruschetta

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 egg

1 lemon, zested

½ tsp. salt

1 pinch freshly ground black pepper, or to taste

1 pinch red pepper flakes, or to taste

4 slices French bread, toasted

1 T. olive oil

1 T. butter

1 T. olive oil

16 large white mushrooms, sliced

¼ cup green onions, chopped

¼ cup Marsala wine

½ cup chicken broth

2 tsp. lemon juice

2 T. chopped Italian parsley

1 T. butter

salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

 

Preheat oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C). Mix ricotta, egg, lemon zest, 1/2 tsp. salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes in a bowl until smooth. Place toasted bread slices on a baking sheet. Sprinkle with 1 T. olive oil and evenly divide ricotta mixture atop 4 bread slices. Bake in the preheated oven until cheese is browned, about 12 minutes. Heat butter and 1 T. olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat; cook and stir mushrooms in mixture until browned, 5 to 6 minutes. Add green onions; cook and stir until softened, 2 to 3 minutes. Stir marsala wine into mixture and cook until reduced by half, about 1 minute.  Reduce heat to medium-low. Add chicken stock and lemon juice to skillet; cook until liquid has evaporated. Reduce heat to low. Stir in parsley and butter. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.  Spoon mushroom mixture equally atop 4 slices of ricotta-topped bread slices.

Cachapas – Fresh Corncakes with Cheese

Cachapas – Fresh Corncakes with Cheese

Cachapas – Fresh Corncakes with Cheese

 

3 C. corn kernels (from fresh ears or thawed frozen)

1/4 C. masa harina (available on the international aisle of most grocers)

salt & pepper

1/2 C. shredded queso mano or mozzarella

vegetable oil, for frying

 

Grind the corn kernels to a smooth pulp, along with the salt and pepper. Add in the masa harina. Note: You can use a food processor or a blender for this step. If you use a blender, you’ll need a tamper or long spoon to push the corn into the blade (not while the blender is running, of course!). Once the mixture is smooth, preheat a griddle or large frying pan over medium heat. Add on some oil, then spoon the batter onto the pan. With the back of your spoon, press the batter into a rough circle. Cook the cachapas for 3-5 minutes. Flip and cook for 3-5 more minutes, pressing the mixture flat if desired. Sprinkle with mozarella and let melt. If necessary, keep warm in the oven until all cachapas are cooked. Fold in half and enjoy!

Nepalese Vegetable Momos

Nepalese Vegetable Momos

Nepalese Vegetable Momos

 

1.5 C. all-purpose flour maida

1 T. cooking oil

Salt as per taste

1/2 C. water or as required to knead a smooth elastic dough

Ingredients for the momos stuffing

2/3 C. cabbage finely chopped

2/3 C. carrot finely chopped

1/2 C. capsicum finely chopped

1/2 C. onion finely chopped

2 T. spring onion finely chopped

1 tsp. grated ginger

1 tsp. grated garlic

1 T. vinegar

1 tsp. black pepper powder

Salt as per taste

1 tsp. any cooking oil of your choice

 

Mix all the ingredients of dough and knead to make a smooth dough. Cover it with a wet cloth and keep aside. In a pan heat oil, add ginger, garlic, and onion. Sauté for around 30 seconds and then add all the remaining vegetables. Add salt, pepper, vinegar and stir fry till the moisture evaporates. Switch off the gas and keep the stuffing aside till it reaches room temperature. Make same sized, small balls of dough. Keep them covered under a wet cloth. Take one dough ball at a time; flatten it by pressing between your palms. Dust with some dry flour and roll it into a thin disc with the help of a rolling board and pin. Now put around 3/4 T. stuffing in the middle of a disc. Lift the edges from all sides and start pleating to bring them to the center. Pinch them together to join at the center. Make momos from the remaining balls in a similar way. Now grease the surface of your steamer’s plate. Place the momos on it and steam for around 20 minutes or till they become translucent. Serve hot with momos chutney! Or savory dipping sauce.

 

Savory Dipping Sauce

 

1 C. distilled white vinegar

1 C. sugar

¼ C. soy sauce

1 C. ketchup

1 tsp. cornstarch

 

Place the vinegar, sugar, soy sauce, and ketchup in a small pot over medium heat. Bring to a boil, stirring, until the sugar is dissolved, about 5 minutes. 2 Combine the cornstarch and 1 T. of water in a small bowl and whisk together with a fork. Stir into the sauce, then bring the sauce to a boil over high heat and boil until thickened, about 1 minute. Serve alongside the momos. Any extra sauce can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to a week. Bring to room temperature before serving.

 

Yield: 12 dumplings

1 dumpling

Calories: 80

Fat: 2g

Fiber: 1g

Mushroom, Grape & Blue Cheese Tartines

Mushroom, Grape & Blue Cheese Tartines

Mushroom, Grape & Blue Cheese Tartines

Don’t slice the endive in advance because the cut surfaces will oxidize and discolor. Wait until the tartines are under the broiler before slicing, and toss with the vinegar right away, as the acid slightly slows discoloration.

 

10- to 12-ounce baguette, halved crosswise and split in half lengthwise

4 T. extra-virgin olive oil, divided

1 medium garlic clove, peeled and halved

10 ounces cremini mushrooms, trimmed and thinly sliced

1 cup small seedless red grapes

1 T. plus 2 tsp. white balsamic vinegar, divided

Kosher salt and ground black pepper

2 ounces cream blue cheese, crumbled (½ cup)

1 medium head endive

 

Heat the broiler with a rack about 6 inches from the element. Pull out some of the interior crumb from each piece of baguette, slightly hollowing out the centers and creating boat shapes. Place the bread cut side up on a rimmed baking sheet. Brush with 3 T. of the oil, then rub with the cut sides of the garlic clove; discard the garlic. In a medium bowl, toss together the mushrooms, grapes, the 1 T. vinegar, the remaining 1 T. oil and ½ tsp. each salt and pepper. Divide the mixture evenly among the baguettes; reserve the bowl. Broil until the edges of the bread are toasted, the grapes begin to burst and the mushrooms begin to brown, about 4 minutes. Meanwhile, trim the endive and thinly slice it on the diagonal. In the reserved bowl, toss the endive with the remaining 2 tsp. vinegar; set aside. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and sprinkle the tartines with the cheese, dividing it evenly. Continue to broil until the cheese is melted, about 1 minute. Remove from the oven, then top with the endive.

Pumpkin Pie Seeds

Pumpkin Pie Seeds

Pumpkin Pie Seeds

Simmer the seeds a few days in advance and leave to soak in their brine, ready to strain and bake when the time comes (see Storage Tip).

 

4 C. (1 L) of water

1 cup (250 mL) of brown sugar

¼ cup (60 mL) of Sriracha or your favorite hot sauce

2 T. (30 mL) of salt

2 T. (30 mL) of ground ginger

1 T. (15 mL) of ground allspice

1 T. (15 mL) of cinnamon

1 T. (15 mL) of nutmeg

1 tsp. (5 mL) of ground cloves

4 C. (1 L) of unsalted raw pumpkin seeds

 

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Turn on your convection fan if you have one. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil and lightly oil the paper or foil. Measure everything except the pumpkin seeds into a small saucepan and bring to a slow, steady simmer for a few minutes. Stir in the pumpkin seeds and simmer for a few minutes so they soften. Turn off the heat and rest long enough for the flavors to absorb, at least 15 minutes. Strain the seeds, reserving the reusable liquid. Spread them evenly on the prepared pan. Bake, without stirring, until lightly crisped and browned, 15 to 20 minutes. As they cool, they’ll crisp further. STORAGE TIP Room Temperature: Cool the seeds, tightly seal in a zip-top bag and store for up to 10 days.

Artichoke Soufflés

Artichoke Soufflés

Artichoke Soufflés

4 Eggs

¼ tsp. hot pepper sauce

¼ C. flour

Pinch freshly ground nutmeg

1½ C. milk

1 can (14 ounces) artichoke hearts, drained and coarsely chopped

1 C. grated fontina cheese

1 C. grated cheddar cheese

½ C. chopped green onion or chives

 

Preheat oven to 350°F. Lightly grease eight ½-C. ramekins. Whisk together the eggs and hot pepper sauce in a large bowl until blended. Add the flour and nutmeg and mix well. Whisk in the milk, then stir in the artichoke hearts, cheeses, and green onion. Spoon the mixture into the ramekins, filling them to about ¼ inch below the rim. Set the ramekins on a baking sheet and bake until puffed and nicely browned, 45 to 50 minutes. Serve immediately.

Mini Basil Parmesan Cheesecakes with Tomato Jam

Mini Basil Parmesan Cheesecakes with Tomato Jam

Mini Basil Parmesan Cheesecakes with Tomato Jam

 

1 1/4 cup cracker crumbs

4 tablespoons salted butter, melted

1 egg white

16 ounces cream cheese, room temperature

1 cup shredded parmesan cheese

2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil

1 tablespoon sugar

2 large eggs, room temperature

1/8 teaspoon kosher salt

1/2 cup tomato jam

fresh basil leaves, for garnish

 

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a small bowl, combine the cracker crumbs, butter and egg white until combined. Press 1/2 tablespoon of the crumb mixture into each well of a mini cheesecake pan. (If you don’t have a cheesecake pan, you can use a muffin pan lined with cupcake liners.) Transfer to pan to the oven and bake for 10 minutes or until crisp. Remove from the oven and allow to cool for 5 minutes. Turn the heat down to 300 degrees. Add the cream cheese, parmesan, basil, sugar, eggs and salt to a blender.

Puree the ingredients until smooth. Fill each well of the pan halfway with the cheese mixture. Return the pan back to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are dry but the centers are still a little jiggly. Remove from the oven and allow to cool to room temperature. Transfer the pan to the refrigerator and chill for 8 hours or overnight. Remover the cheesecakes from the pan by running a knife around the edges and pushing up on the bottom. Transfer to a serving platter or plate. Top with tomato jam and garnish with basil. Serve immediately.

“Persinnamon“ Crisps

“Persinnamon“ Crisps

“Persinnamon“ Crisps

This recipe couldn’t be simpler. I enjoy adding salty-sweet fruit crisps to picnic spreads because they’re unexpected and round out a menu nicely. Bags of greasy potato chips—sure, people expect that. But a homemade persimmon chip? Not so much. This is the type of DIY recipe that is absolutely worth doing. It’s so easy: just a little slicing and a quick sprinkle of cinnamon sugar, and the oven takes it from there. I call for Fuyu persimmons here, as they are firmer and less astringent than Hachiya persimmons, and better suited to recipes like this. They’re also much more readily available. You can swap out the persimmons for apples or pears (“pearcinnamon” chips?) and proceed right along with the recipe. Makes about 4 servings

 

11/2 tsp. sugar

11/2 tsp. salt

3/4 tsp. ground cinnamon

4 Fuyu persimmons (not too ripe)

Juice of 1/2 lemon

 

Preheat the oven to 250°F [120°C] and spray two baking sheets lightly with nonstick cooking spray (or use a silicone baking mat). Combine the sugar, salt, and cinnamon in a large bowl. Remove the green leaves from the persimmons and slice them very thin (with a mandoline, if you’ve got it); no need to peel them. Try to keep the slices at a thickness of less than 1/8 in [4 mm]. Toss these slices with the salty cinnamon-sugar mixture and the lemon juice. Lay the seasoned persimmon slices on the baking sheets in a single layer. Bake for 45 minutes, flip, and continue baking until golden brown and crisped, about 30 minutes more. Transfer the persimmon chips to a wire rack to cool. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.

Crostini with Peaches, Ricotta, Prosciutto, Honey and Basil

Crostini with Peaches, Ricotta, Prosciutto, Honey and Basil

Crostini with Peaches, Ricotta, Prosciutto, Honey and Basil

 

1 large baguette

2-3 peaches, depending in their size; sliced thinly

about 1/2 cup ricotta, depending on how large your bread is

4oz prosciutto

honey for drizzling

chopped fresh basil for topping

lemon; optional to squeeze over top of the crostini

 

Slice the baguette on an angle to cut about 1/2 inch slices.  Drizzle both sides with olive oil.

Place on a grill and grill both sides until both sides have slight grill marks.  Allow to cool.  Scoop some ricotta onto each slice. Top with a small piece of the prosciutto. Then top that with a slice of the peach. Drizzle with honey. Sprinkle with chopped basil. Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice; optional.

Everything but the Bagel Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

Everything but the Bagel Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

Everything but the Bagel Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

1 tablespoon sesame seeds

I 1/2 teaspoons poppy seeds

1 tablespoon dried minced onion

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon fine-grain sea salt

Seeds from 1 large pumpkin, rinsed and dried

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

 

Preheat the oven to 3 75 ° F. Mix the sesame seeds, poppy seeds, minced onion, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and sea salt together in a small bowl. Place the pumpkin seeds in a medium-size bowl, drizzle with the olive oil, toss to coat, then add the spice mixture and toss again.   Spread the seeds out on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast until golden brown, 10 to 20 minutes. Don’t worry if they aren’t crunchy right out of the oven.  They will crisp up more as they cool on the baking sheet.  Store in an airtight container at room temperature

Blue Beetroot Foldovers

Blue Beetroot Foldovers

Blue Beetroot Foldovers

 

2 Beets, medium

4 Dates, dried pitted and finely chopped

1 T. Lemon juice, fresh

1/4 C. Pumpkin seeds

2 T. Greek yogurt

½ package | 50 g Crumbled Danish Blue Cheese

1/4 C. / 60 ml pumpkin seeds, toasted; parsley or cilantro chopped finely for garnish (optional)

 

Boil beets in a large saucepan of salted water until tender; remove from heat, rinse with cold water and peel when cool enough to handle.  Using a mandolin or a sharp knife cut beets into very thin 1/8” slices. Place on paper towels to absorb excess moisture.  Combine remaining ingredients and stir to combine; set aside or refrigerate until ready to assemble.. Scoop a heaping tsp. of the Crumbled Danish Blue filling onto half of a beet slice and fold the other half over. Secure with toothpick if they don’t remain closed on their own. Place on a serving dish and garnish with pumpkin seeds and parsley or cilantro if desired.

Herbed Goat Cheese and Sun-Dried Tomato Spread

Herbed Goat Cheese and Sun-Dried Tomato Spread

Herbed Goat Cheese and Sun-Dried Tomato Spread

 

½ lb. mild soft goat cheese, softened

3 T. finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes

3 tsp. minced fresh thyme

2 tsp. minced fresh rosemary

1 small shallot, minced

¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil

Finely minced Garlic, optional

Salt and Pepper

 

Stir all ingredients together until smooth, add garlic, salt and pepper to taste. For a smoother texture, process in food processor until smooth and creamy, if desired. Serve on toast or crackers, or your favorite vegetable.

Wild Mushrooms and Lardo on Rye

Wild Mushrooms and Lardo on Rye

Wild Mushrooms and Lardo on Rye

1 pound (454 g) mixed wild mushrooms: porcini, chanterelle, morel, boletus, etc. (substitute with any selection of cultivated and/or wild mushrooms)

2 T. (30 ml) butter

3 T. (45 ml) olive oil, divided

1/4 cup (60 ml) finely chopped shallots

1 T. (15 ml) fresh thyme leaves

Salt and pepper

½ cup (120 ml) dry white wine

1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream

4 toasted slices of rye bread

2 C. (480 ml) grated Fontina cheese (or substitute with mozzarella or old cheddar)

4 ounces (114 g) Italian lardo (from Valle d’Aosta, if possible), cut into thin strips

Italian parsley, chopped finely, for garnish

 

Clean mushrooms with damp cloth, trim woody ends of stems, and slice. Add butter and 1 T. (15 ml) of olive oil to a large skillet on medium heat. Add mushrooms, making sure the skillet is not overcrowded. Leave mushrooms to cook for 3-5 minutes or until bottoms are browned. Flip mushrooms and add shallots, thyme leaves, salt, and pepper to skillet. Cook for another 7-10 minutes, flipping once. Once moisture has evaporated, add dry white wine to skillet and reduce by at least half. Add heavy cream and continue cooking, stirring periodically. Drizzle toast with remaining olive oil. Broil 1 side of bread until golden. Flip over. Divide grated Fontina between slices of toast. Add cheese and broil again until cheese is melted and golden. Remove toast from oven and top each piece with sautéed mushrooms and paper-thin slices of lardo. Garnish with finely chopped Italian parsley.

Blistered Shishitos with Furikake Ranch and Crispy Quinoa

Blistered Shishitos with Furikake Ranch and Crispy Quinoa

Blistered Shishitos with Furikake Ranch and Crispy Quinoa

 

4 T. neutral oil

½ cup cooked quinoa

Kosher salt

1 pound shishito peppers

Garlic salt

½ lemon, cut into wedges

¾ cup ranch dressing

3 T. Furikake 

 

In a large skillet, heat 2 T. of the oil over medium-high heat. When it’s shimmering-hot, add the quinoa to the pan and spread evenly. Cook, stirring occasionally, until golden-brown and crisp, 5 to 15 minutes (depending on the quinoa’s moisture content; freshly cooked quinoa will take longer). Drain the fried quinoa on paper towels and season with a pinch of kosher salt. Wipe the pan clean. Add the remaining 2 T. oil to the pan and place over high heat. Once the oil begins to smoke, add the shishitos. It’s important that all the peppers touch the pan, so work in batches if necessary. Sear the peppers on all sides, turning occasionally, until they begin to blister and slightly char, about 4 minutes. Season to taste with garlic salt and a squeeze of lemon. Transfer to a plate and top with the fried quinoa. In a small bowl, whisk together the ranch with 2 T. of the furikake. Serve it alongside the shishitos. Sprinkle with the remaining 1 T. furikake before serving.

Spanish Omelet with Pickled Cherry Tomatoes

Spanish Omelet with Pickled Cherry Tomatoes

Spanish Omelet with Pickled Cherry Tomatoes

 

For the pickled cherry tomatoes

1 red onion, thinly sliced

1/4 cup (60 mL) of water or tomato juice

1/4 cup (60 mL) of cider vinegar

2 tablespoons (30 mL) of white sugar

1 tablespoon (15 mL) of coriander seeds

1 tablespoon (15 mL) of fennel seeds

1 teaspoon (5 mL) of mustard seeds

1/4 teaspoon (1 mL) of your favorite hot sauce

1 pint (500 mL) of cherry tomatoes, halved

2 green onions, thinly sliced

 

For the potato omelet

1/2 cup (125 mL) of olive oil

1 large onion, sliced

8 garlic cloves, thinly sliced

4 baking potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced

6 to 8 eggs

1 teaspoon (5 mL) of dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon (2 mL) of salt

Lots of freshly ground pepper

4 ounces (115 g) of feta cheese, crumbled (1 cup/250 mL or so)

 

Begin with the pickled tomatoes. Measure the onion, water, vinegar, sugar, coriander seeds, fennel seeds, mustard seeds and hot sauce into a medium saucepan. Bring to a slow, steady simmer. Continue simmering until the mixture is reduced by half, 10 minutes or so. Remove from the heat and stir in the tomatoes and green onions. Let rest for at least 10 minutes, even overnight. For the omelet, heat a large nonstick sauté pan over medium-high heat. Swirl in the oil. Add the onions and garlic, briefly sautéing to soften the onions. Add the potatoes and sauté a few minutes more. Cover tightly and reduce the heat. Cook, sizzling slightly, shaking the works two or three times, until the potatoes are tender and lightly browned, 20 minutes or so. Whisk the eggs with the oregano, salt and pepper. Gently stir in the feta cheese. Add the potato mixture to the bowl, stir to thoroughly coat the works and return to the sauté pan. Cover tightly and cook until firm but still tender, 5 or 6 minutes. Loosen the omelet from the pan with a rubber spatula. With a strong grip and a few folded kitchen towels or a potholder, invert the pan, releasing the omelet onto the lid (if it’s flat) or a large plate. Carefully slide it back into the pan and cook for another few minutes, firming and lightly browning the bottom. Slice into wedges in the pan using the rubber spatula. Serve and share with spoonfuls of the pickled tomatoes.

“Oven-Fried” Artichokes

“Oven-Fried” Artichokes

“Oven-Fried” Artichokes

 

2 jars (12 ounces each) oil-marinated artichoke quarters

Everyday olive oil, if needed

Flaky sea salt

Lemon wedges, for serving

 

Heat the oven to 425 degrees. Line a baking sheet with foil. Place a colander or sieve over a bowl and add the artichoke quarters, letting their oil drain into the bowl. Transfer the artichokes to the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with 2 T. of the oil from the bowl. Bake the artichokes, flipping each with tongs halfway through cooking, until golden brown and crisp all over, 20 to 25 minutes. Transfer the artichokes to a platter while hot and sprinkle with flaky sea salt. Serve immediately with lemon wedges.

Rose Pesto

Rose Pesto

Rose Pesto

 

1 whole pot basil leaves (fresh plants sold in gourmet shops in pots)

1 fistful of fresh, crisp, pink organic rose petals

2 deciliters (1 healthy cup) parmesan, grated

1 deciliter (half a cup) pine nuts

1 garlic clove

2 T. (1 oz.) olive oil

1 T. (0.5 oz.) fresh pressed lemon juice

salt

freshly ground white pepper

Swedish Wasa Rye Bread

 

Pick the leaves off the basil plant, and mix basil and rose petals in a food mixer. Grate the parmesan cheese and add with pine nuts and garlic into the mixer. Mix. Pour the olive oil into the mixer as you mix.

Mix. Add lemon juice and pepper to taste. Mount the rose pesto on the hard bread.

Potato Cheddar Pierogis

Potato Cheddar Pierogis

Potato Cheddar Pierogis

½ pound Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and quartered

¼ C. shredded cheddar cheese

¼ C. plain Greek yogurt

2 T. unsalted butter, divided and softened

½ tsp. kosher salt

1 large egg, beaten with 1 tsp. water

32 round wonton wrappers, defrosted

1 T. olive oil

½ C. applesauce or sour cream, optional

 

Place potatoes in a medium heavy-bottomed saucepan. Add enough water to cover by 1-inch; bring to a boil over medium-high heat and cook for 15 minutes or until tender. Drain well. Mash potatoes in a medium bowl with cheese, yogurt, 1 T. butter and salt until smooth. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Working with a few wonton wrappers at a time, fill with a heaping tsp. of potato mixture. Brush edges with egg wash and fold over to create a half moon shape. Press edges with a fork to seal tightly and repeat with remaining wrappers and filling. Cook in batches in boiling water for 2 minutes or until the pierogi floats. In a large skillet, heat remaining T. of butter and olive oil over medium high heat. Transfer half the cooked pierogis to the skillet and sauté 2 to 4 minutes or until golden on each side. Repeat with remaining pierogis and serve with a side of apple sauce and/or sour cream for dipping.

ABM Homemade Pretzel Bites

ABM Homemade Pretzel Bites

ABM Homemade Pretzel Bites

 

1 1/8 cups water 70 to 80 degrees F

3 cups all-purpose flour

3 T. brown sugar

1 1/2 tsp. active dry yeast

2 quarts water

1/2 cup baking soda

coarse salt

melted butter

 

In bread machine pan, place the first four ingredients in order suggested by manufacturer. Select dough setting (check dough after 5 minutes of mixing; add 1 to 2 T. water or flour if needed). When cycle is completed, turn dough onto a lightly floured surface. Divide dough into eight balls. Roll each into a 20-in. rope and cut into 1-2 inch bites. In a saucepan, bring water and baking soda to a boil. Drop pretzel bites into boiling water, two at a time; boil for 10-15 seconds. Remove with a slotted spoon; drain on paper towels. Place pretzel bites on greased baking sheets. Bake at 425 degrees F for 8 minutes or until golden brown. Brush with melted butter. Sprinkle with salt.

Flavored Popcorns

Flavored Popcorns

Flavored Popcorns

 

Asian Popcorn — Preheat oven to 250°F(130°C, Gas Mark 1/2). Spread popcorn on a nonstick cookie sheet and lightly coat with refrigerated butter-flavored cooking spray. Mix together 1 T. (15 ml) low-sodium soy sauce, 2 tsp. (10 ml) fresh lemon juice, 1 tsp. (5 ml) five-spice powder, 1/4 tsp. (1.25 ml) ground coriander, and 1/4 tsp. (1.25 ml) garlic powder. Drizzle over popcorn. Toss to coat evenly. Bake 10 minutes, tossing once. Serve warm.

 

Italian Popcorn — Preheat oven to 300°F(150°C, Gas Mark 2). Spread popcorn on a nonstick cookie sheet and lightly coat with refrigerated butter-flavored cooking spray. Mix together 1 tsp. (5 ml) crushed dried Italian herbs, 1/8 tsp. (0.6 ml) cayenne pepper, and 1 tsp. (5 ml) grated Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle over popcorn and lightly coat again with cooking spray. Toss. Bake for 10 minutes, tossing once. Serve warm.

 

Mexican Popcorn — Put the popcorn in a large bowl and lightly coat with refrigerated butter-flavored cooking spray. Combine 1 T. (15 ml) dried Mexican spiced salad dressing mix with 1/4 tsp. (1.25 ml) crushed dried oregano, 1/4 tsp. (1.25 ml) crushed dried thyme, and 1/4 tsp. (1.25 ml) garlic powder. Sprinkle over popcorn. Toss to evenly coat. Lightly coat with additional cooking spray. Toss again and serve.

 

Orange Popcorn — Put the popcorn in a large bowl and lightly coat with refrigerated butter-flavored cooking spray. Sprinkle with 2 1/2 T. (22.5 ml) orange-flavored powdered drink mix (already sweetened with sugar substitute) and 1/2 tsp. (2.5 ml) dried orange peel. Toss and coat again with cooking spray. Toss and serve.

 

Spicy and Sweet Popcorn — Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C, Gas Mark 2). Spread popcorn on a nonstick cookie sheet and lightly coat with refrigerated butter-flavored cooking spray. Combine 2 1/2 T. (22.5 ml) spoonable sugar substitute, 1/4 tsp. (1.25 ml) ground cinnamon, 1/8 tsp. (0.6 ml) ground nutmeg and 1/4 tsp. (1.25 ml) dried orange peel. Sprinkle over the popcorn and toss. Lightly coat again with cooking spray and toss. Bake for 10 minutes, tossing once. Serve warm.

Speck Wrapped Apple Bites

Speck Wrapped Apple Bites

Speck Wrapped Apple Bites

 

1 sweet red apple cut into slices

8 slices Parmesan cheese

3 ounces speck, 8 slices

Good honey

8 fresh basil leaves

 

Preheat broiler and line a baking sheet with foil. Top each slice of apple Parmesan cheese, then wrap with 1 slice of speck. Line them up on the baking sheet. Brush the tops with honey. Broil for 2-3 minutes until you see the honey and speck bubble and brown slightly. Remove and serve warm with a basil leaf for each bite.

Buttery Garlic Mushroom Toast with Herbed Ricotta Spread

Buttery Garlic Mushroom Toast with Herbed Ricotta Spread

Buttery Garlic Mushroom Toast with Herbed Ricotta Spread

 

3 T. unsalted butter

2 (8 ounce) packages sliced crimini mushrooms

¼ C. white wine

4 cloves garlic, pressed through garlic press, plus 1 whole clove, peeled, divided use

2 tsp. thyme leaves

Salt

Black pepper

6 slices of your favorite rustic-style bread

Herbed Ricotta Spread (recipe below)

Thyme leaves, for garnish

 

Place a cast iron or other heavy bottom skillet or pan over medium-high heat; add in the butter, and once it has melted, add in the mushrooms and sauté for about 7-8 minutes, until they become a deep golden-brown, and begin to caramelize. (They will, at first, release a good bit of liquid; but then it evaporates, and the mushrooms become almost sticky, and caramelize.)  Add in the wine, and once it has reduced (after about 30 seconds), add in the 4 cloves of pressed garlic and the thyme, and stir those in to incorporate; once the garlic becomes aromatic, add in a couple of pinches of salt and pepper; set aside and keep warm. Toast your slices of bread, and then rub the remaining whole clove of garlic over each slice. Spread the Herbed Ricotta Spread generously over each slice of the garlicky toast, then spoon generous amounts of the sauteed mushrooms onto each piece; garnish with a little addition thyme, and enjoy.

 

Herbed Ricotta Spread Ingredients:

 

½ C. whole milk ricotta cheese

½ C. whipped cream cheese

¼ C. grated parmesan cheese

1 T. minced chives

1 T. chopped flat-leaf parsley

1 tsp. thyme leaves, minced

Pinch salt

Pinch black pepper

 

Add all of the ingredients into a medium-size bowl, and using a spatula, blend everything together until smooth and completely combined; use immediately, or keep in a covered container in fridge until ready to serve.

Clam-Stuffed Celery

Clam-Stuffed Celery

Clam-Stuffed Celery

 

1 (10 oz.) can minced clams, drained, liquid reserved

1/2 cup part-skim ricotta cheese

1 garlic clove, minced

1 T. fresh lemon juice

1 tsp. minced onion

1/8 tsp. red (cayenne) pepper

3 T. snipped dill, or tsp. dried dill weed

6 celery stalks, cut in half crosswise

 

Place all ingredients except dill and celery in a blender or a food processor fitted with the metal blade and process until smooth. Add clam liquid if needed to thin; stir in the dill. Stuff celery stalks with cheese mixture.

Makes about 1-1/4 cups filling.

 

Makes: 12 Stuffed Celery Stalks

Calories: 63

Fat: 3 g

Sweet and Spicy Pickled Radish

Sweet and Spicy Pickled Radish

Sweet and Spicy Pickled Radish

1 lb. radishes sliced thin

1/4 C. cilantro chopped

1 jalapeno stem removed, finely diced

1 C. distilled white vinegar or more as needed

2 T. sugar

2 T. kosher salt

1 tsp. red pepper flakes optional

1 T. mustard seed

 

Wash and dry the radishes Рslice thin and add to a large bowl along with the chopped cilantro and jalape̱o Рset aside. In a small saucepan, combine the vinegar with the sugar and salt and stir until dissolved. Bring to a low boil on the stove, then turn off and allow to cool completely (you can also toss in the fridge if you are in a hurry). Grab a wide-mouth quart canning jar and pack it to the top with the radish/cilantro/jalape̱o mixture. Pack tightly. Sprinkle the red pepper flakes and mustard seed on the top of the packed radishes. Pour the cooled vinegar mixture over the top of the mixture in the jar, if needed, top off with additional vinegar and a pinch of salt. Place the lid and ring tightly on the jar and allow to sit at room temperature for 24 hours before placing in the refrigerator. Consume within 7-10 days. Optional: 2 chiles de arbol can be added to each jar for a little extra spice. Simply remove the stem and stuff in the jar before adding the liquid.

Millionaire Stuffed Shrimp

Millionaire Stuffed Shrimp

Millionaire Stuffed Shrimp

 

12 each shrimp fresh, unpeeled, jumbo

6 cups   water

1 medium onions

finely chopped

½ medium green bell peppers finely chopped

½ cup celery finely chopped

½ cup butter or margarine, melted and divided

1 pound crab meat fresh lump, drained

1 large egg lightly beaten

¾ cup crackers, saltine crushed

½ cup mayonnaise

1 T. prepared mustard

2 tsp. Worcestershire sauce

⅛ tsp. red pepper flakes, ground

Paprika

 

Peel and devein shrimp, leaving tails intact; cut a slit almost through back of shrimp, using a paring knife. Open shrimp and flatten. Bring water to a boil. Add shrimp; cook 1 minute. Drain; place in a shallow pan. Cook onion, green pepper, and celery in ¼ cup butter in a skillet, stirring often, until tender. Combine crabmeat and next 6 ingredients in a bowl, stirring gently. Stir in vegetable mixture. Top each shrimp with 3 T. crabmeat mixture: sprinkle with paprika. Drizzle ¼ cup butter over top. Bake, uncovered, at 350℉ (180℃) for 20 minutes. Broil 5½ inches from heat (with electric oven door partially opened) 6 minutes, basting twice with pan drippings.

Avocado with Ginger & Carrot Dressing

Avocado with Ginger & Carrot Dressing

Avocado with Ginger & Carrot Dressing

2 T. water

2 small carrots,, peeled and diced

1/2 shallot,, peeled and roughly chopped

2- inch knob of ginger,, peeled and grated

1/4 C. grape seed oil

2 T. rice wine vinegar

1 T. sesame oil

1 T. sweet white miso paste

1 avocado,, fanned

Sesame seeds,, for topping

 

To a blender or food processor, add the water, carrots, shallot and ginger. Pulse until carrots and shallot are thoroughly minced. Scrape down the sides and with the blender running, pour in the grape seed oil, rice wine vinegar, sesame oil and sweet white miso paste. Allow the blender to run for 30 seconds or so. Give it a taste and adjust the salt to taste. I added just a pinch of salt. To assemble the snack: half an avocado. Peel the avocado and place flesh side down on a cutting board. Slice it thinly and then gently press on the top, fanning it out. Place a liberal T. of dressing onto the plate. Top with the avocado and then garnish with a few sesame seeds and a pinch of salt.

Naturally Pink Cauliflower Pickles

Naturally Pink Cauliflower Pickles

Naturally Pink Cauliflower Pickles

1 medium-small cauliflower (1½–2 pounds)

1 small beet

2 sprigs fresh dill or 2 dill flower heads or 1 teaspoon dried dillweed, divided

2 small cloves garlic, peeled and lightly smashed

1 teaspoon mustard seeds, divided

½ teaspoon cumin seeds, divided

½ teaspoon red chile pepper flakes, divided (optional)

1 cup white distilled or white wine vinegar

¾ cup water

1 tablespoon honey

2 teaspoons kosher or other non-iodized salt

 

Wash the cauliflower and remove any outer leaves. Cut it in half, and slice off the florets with a short length of the base attached. Aim for approximately 1-inch pieces. Peel the beet. Cut it in half and then into ½-inch-thick slices. Distribute the dill, garlic cloves, and spices between two clean pint canning jars. Pack in the cauliflower above the seasonings, adding half of the beet slices to each jar. Leave 1 inch of head space. Combine the vinegar, water, honey, and salt in a small pot. Bring to a boil, stirring to dissolve the salt and honey. Skim off any foam that forms on the surface. Pour the hot brine over the other ingredients in the jars, fully covering them but still leaving ½ inch of head space. Screw on canning lids and process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes (adjust the canning time if you live at a high altitude—see the sidebar in the Boiling Water Bath Canning chapter). Wait at least one week before serving. During that time, not only will the flavors mellow and “marry,” but the beet juices will color the cauliflower.