Which Wine To Use

Which Wine To Use

wines

Fish fillets, shellfish, vegetables Light, crisp whites: dry riesling, muscadet and unoaked sauvignon blanc and chardonnay
Beef or lamb chunks, tuna or salmon steaks Soft, juicy reds such as merlot, syrah, beaujolais and cotes du rhone
Chicken light, crisp whites or soft, juicy reds
Apricots, plums, pears, tropical fruit Sweet whites, such as sweet riesling, white zinfandel, muscat and sauternes
Berries, figs Sweet reds, such as ruby port and port-style zinfandel
Blue Cheese Fortified Liqueur Tawny, Shiraz Cabernet, Shiraz;
Soft, creamy cheese Chardonnay, Cabernet Merlot, Merlot;
Goat’s & Sheep’s Cheese Merlot, Cabernet Merlot, Chardonnay, Shiraz;
Hard Cheese Shiraz Cabernet, cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Shiraz
Italian Cuisine: Cream Sauce Semillon Chardonnay, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir;
Italian Cuisine: Tomato Sauce Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Shiraz, Pinot Noir
Mexican Cuisine: Green Chile Sauce Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay-Riesling;
Mexican Cuisine: red Chile Sauce Shiraz, Merlot, Cabernet Blends
Asian Cuisine: Chinese & Thai Semillon Chardonnay, Shiraz Cabernet, Cabernet Blends;
Asian Cuisine: Sushi Riesling, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc
Indian Cuisine: Tandoori Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir
Indian Cuisine: Curries Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Pinot Noir

wine-and-food-pairing-chart

Bacon Cheeseburger Pizza

Bacon Cheeseburger Pizza

132faafbf-0a51-494e-8cc1-825a84ef9f05 loaf (1 pound) unsliced French bread
1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
1 jar (14oz) pizza sauce
1 large tomato, seeded and chopped
8 slices bacon, crisply cooked and crumbled
2 C. finely shredded pizza cheese blend (mozzarella and Cheddar)

Heat oven to 400. Cut bread loaf horizontally in half. Cut bread halves crosswise in half to make 4 pieces (to fit on cookie sheet). Arrange on large ungreased cookie sheet. Cook beef and onion in 10″ skillet over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until beef is brown; drain. Stir in pizza sauce. Spread beef mixture over bread. Sprinkle with tomato, bacon and cheese. Bake 12-15 minutes or until pizza is hot and cheese is melted.

Snickerdoodle Bundt Cake

Snickerdoodle Bundt Cake

Snickerdoodle Bundt Cake

 

2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

1 cup white sugar

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt

1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature

1 cup white sugar

1 cup light brown sugar

3 eggs, at room temperature

2 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup full-fat sour cream, at room temperature

 

In a small bowl, combine 1 cup of sugar and 2 teaspoons of cinnamon. Mix together really well and set aside.  Preheat oven to 325F. Generously spray a 9 inch Bundt pan with a nonstick baking spray with flour, being careful to cover all the nooks and crannies, as well as the center tube.  If you don’t want to use baking spray with flour, you can just grease the pan with shortening. Gently dust the entire inside of the pan with the sugar and cinnamon mixture. You should only need about 1/4 to 1/2 cup of sugar, but you want to try and evenly coat the inside surface of the pan, including the tube. Save the remaining sugar and cinnamon mixture and set everything aside.  Sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Set aside. Beat just the butter on medium speed for one full minute. Add the white sugar and mix for 3 minutes, until light and fluffy. Scrape down the bowl and blade and add the brown sugar. Mix for 2 minutes until the mixture looks light brown and uniform in color. Add the eggs one at a time, beating each for 1 full minute. Stir in the vanilla. Add the flour mixture alternately with the sour cream; beat well.  Spread half of the batter into the prepared pan. Sprinkle with 1/4 to 1/3 of a cup of the cinnamon sugar mixture over top the cake. Spread the rest of the batter into the pan and sprinkle any remaining sugar mixture over the top.  Bake in the preheated oven for 55 to 65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the cake comes out clean. Allow to cool for 10 minutes before inverting onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Easy Juices for a Beginning Juicer

Easy Juices for a Beginning Juicer

Easy Juices for a Beginning Juicer

 

For Green Goddess Juice:

3 stalks of celery

1/2 large cucumber, cut into quarters

1 medium green apple, cut into eighths

1 medium pear, cut into eighths

 

For Ginger Zinger Juice:

2 medium apples, cut into eighths

5 carrots (no need to peel)

1/2 inch fresh ginger

1/4 lemon (remove peel to avoid bitterness)

 

For Tropi-Kale Juice:

1/4 of a fresh pineapple, skin and core removed, and cut into 1” strips

4 kale leaves

1 ripe banana, peeled

 

For Antioxidant Blast Juice:

2 medium beets, cut into quarters and the greens

1 cup blueberries

1 cup halved, hulled strawberries

 

For Immune Booster Juice:

2 oranges, quartered (remove peel for less bitterness)

1/4 lemon (remove peel for less bitterness)

1 medium apple, cut into eighths

1/2” fresh ginger

 

For Not-So-Sour Apple Juice:

2 tart apples, cut into eights

5 kale leaves

 

For Kale Kickstart Juice:

1 orange, quartered (remove the peel for less bitterness)

1 cup halved and hulled strawberries

2 kale leaves

3 carrots

1 ripe banana

 

For Cucumber Cooler Juice:

1/4 ripe cantaloupe, seeds removed, cut into chunks (no need to peel)

2 stalks celery

1/2 cucumber, cut into slices

1/4 lemon (remove peel to reduce bitterness)

 

For All Flavors:

Juice all the ingredients following the instructions for normal juicing in your juicer manual. Drink immediately, or let chill for an hour and then enjoy.

Lemon Chicken Stir-Fry

Lemon Chicken Stir-Fry

21226206-76cf-4218-b72d-fb32fe0ef4ea8oz uncooked capellini (angel hair) pasta
1 T. vegetable oil
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken tenders, cut into 1″ pieces
1 medium onion, cut into 8 wedges
2 C. small broccoli flowerets
1/2 C. sugar snap peas
1 C. chicken broth
1 T. chopped fresh or 1 tsp. dried thyme leaves
1 tsp. grated lemon peel
4 tsp. cornstarch
1 1/2 tsp. lemon pepper
1 C. cherry or grape tomatoes, cut in half

Cook and drain pasta as directed on package. While pasta is cooking, heat oil in 12″ skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and onion; stir-fry 5-6 minutes or until chicken is brown.  Add broccoli and peas to chicken mixture. Cook over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until vegetables are crisp-tender. Stir together broth, thyme, lemon peel, cornstarch and lemon pepper in a small bowl; stir into chicken mixture. Cook over medium-high heat for 1-2 minutes or until sauce is thickened and vegetables are coated. Stir in tomatoes; cook until thoroughly heated.

Chicken Stew with Pierogies

Chicken Stew with Pierogies

wfd1/2 lb. (about half of a package) smoky, good-quality bacon, chopped into half-inch pieces
3 T. extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO), divided plus some for coating the pierogies
3 1/2 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts and thighs, cut into chunks
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
2 large onions, chopped
4 carrots, peeled and chopped
5 cloves garlic, smashed and roughly chopped
2 T. flour
2 rounded tablespoons sweet paprika
1 T. cumin
1/2 tsp. dried marjoram
2 bay leaves
1/2 C. white wine
2 1/2 C. chicken stock
1 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes
4 T. butter
24 potato pierogies
1/2 C. sour cream
1/4 C. chives, chopped
Optional:
1 T. lemon zest
1 T. rosemary, chopped
2 T. parsley, chopped

Place a large pot of water over high heat and bring up to a boil for the pierogies. Place a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat with 1 turn of the pan of EVOO, about 1 tablespoon, add the bacon and cook until brown and crisp, about 2-3 minutes. Season chicken with salt and pepper, add to the pot with the bacon and brown all sides, about 5 minutes. Add onions, carrots and garlic, paprika, cumin, marjoram and bay leaves and cook for about 4-5 minutes, until the veggies are tender. Make a well in the middle of the pan and add 2 tablespoons of EVOO. Add the flour to the EVOO and mix to form a paste. Add the white wine, scrapping up all of the brown bits on the bottom of the pan. Add the chicken stock and tomatoes and cook for about 20 minutes until the stew has thickened. While the stew is cooking, cook the pierogies according to the package in boiling water. Remove from the water, drain and coat lightly with EVOO so they do not stick together. Heat a medium non-stick skillet over medium-high heat, add the butter and cook until butter turns slightly brown and gives off a nutty smell. Make sure not to burn the butter though! Add the cooked pierogies to the pan and cook until slightly browned on both sides, about 1-2 minutes per side. Serve the stew in large bowls with about a tablespoon of sour cream and chopped chives. Or serve the stew with a sprinkle of lemon zest, rosemary and parsley. Place the pierogies on top of the stew and eat.

Instant Pot Corn on the Cob

Instant Pot Corn on the Cob

Instant Pot Corn on the Cob

1-10 ears Corn on the Cob (you can cook just 1, or as many as you can fit in the pot)

 

Cut the ends off of the ears of corn (you can fit more in this way). Shuck it if you want to. Place the trivet in the pot, and pour in 1 1/2 cups of water (2 cups for the 8 qt) Stack the ears of corn in the pot. Close the lid and set the steam release knob to the sealing position. Press the Pressure Cook/Manual button or dial, then the + or – button or dial to select 2 minutes (3 to 4 minutes for unshucked corn).  When the cooking cycle is finished, turn the steam release knob to the Venting position to do a Quick Release of the pressure. When the pin in the lid drops down, open the lid and carefully remove the corn. Slather with butter and sprinkle with salt, and enjoy!

Cuban Barbecued Pork Chops

Cuban Barbecued Pork Chops

1/4 C. Old El Paso taco sauce
1 T. brown sugar
1 T. strong black coffee
1 T. rum
1 tsp. frozen orange juice concentrate
4 (3/4″ thick) boneless pork loin chops

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In small bowl, combine all ingredients except pork chops; mix well. Place pork chops in nonmetal dish or large resealable food storage plastic bag. Pour taco sauce mixture over pork chops; turn to coat. Cover dish or seal bag. Refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight to marinate. Heat grill. When ready to grill, remove pork chops from marinade; reserve marinade. Place pork chops on gas grill over medium heat or on charcoal grill 4-6 inches from medium coals. Cook 11-13 minutes or until pork is no longer pink in center, turning once and brushing with reserved marinade. Discard any remaining marinade.

Fried Green Tomatoes with Avocados and Poached Eggs

Fried Green Tomatoes with Avocados and Poached Eggs

Fried Green Tomatoes with Avocados and Poached Eggs

 

1 large green tomato

Kosher salt

Freshly ground black pepper

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

1 large egg

1 tablespoon buttermilk

1 1/2 cups panko Japanese-style breadcrumbs

1/2 – 1 cup olive oil, for frying

For serving

1 medium avocado

1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice, or more to taste

4 large eggs

 

Prep tomatoes. Trim 1/2-inch from the stem and blossom ends of the tomato and discard. Slice tomato into 1/4-inch thick slices. Season tomato slices on both sides with salt and pepper. Set aside. Prep coating. In a shallow dish or pie pan, add the flour. In a second shallow dish, whisk together the egg and buttermilk until blended. Spread the panko breadcrumbs in a third shallow dish. Coat tomatoes. Working with one tomato slice at a time, dip the tomato slices into the flour to coat evenly, shaking off the excess. Then, dip into the egg mixture, letting the excess drip back onto the dish. Then coat the tomato slices in the panko breadcrumbs, patting firmly to help the breadcrumbs adhere. Cook tomatoes. Heat 1/2 cup oil in a 10-inch non-stick or well-seasoned cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Working in batches if necessary, carefully place tomatoes into the heated oil in a single layer. Cook until the undersides are golden brown, about 2 minutes. Turn the slices and fry until the other sides are browned, about 2 minutes more, adding more oil to the pan as necessary. Drain the fried tomatoes on paper towels. For serving: Prep avocado. Cut the avocado in half lengthwise around the pit. Twist the avocado halves in opposite directions and pull the halves apart. Remove the pit from the avocado and discard. Scoop out the avocado pulp into a medium bowl and mash it with a fork and some fresh lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Plate tomatoes. Place tomato slices on plates and top with even amounts of avocado mixture. Set aside. Cook eggs. For the eggs, crack the eggs into 4 small ramekins or sauce dishes. In a 12-inch straight-sided skillet, bring 3 inches of water to a simmer. Turn down the heat so that no more bubbles form on the surface. Carefully slide the eggs into the water, evenly spreading the eggs around the pan so they don’t touch each other. Cook eggs, undisturbed, until white is just set and yolk is still runny, 3 to 4 minutes. Use a rubber spatula to gently release eggs from the bottom of pan, if necessary. Using a slotted spoon, remove eggs from water. Blot the bottom of the spoon on a paper towel to remove excess water. Gently place an egg on each tomato slice. Serve immediately.

Thai Chicken Crescent Sandwiches

Thai Chicken Crescent Sandwiches

58162907-32e7-48c4-b7b2-53e658379cc62 T. plain yogurt or sour cream
1 T. peanut butter
2 tsp. curry powder
1 tsp. ginger
1/2 tsp. garlic powder
1 1/2 tsp. soy sauce
1 C. frozen cooked chicken breast, thawed
1 1/2 C. shredded carrots
4oz (1C) shredded hot pepper Monterey Jack cheese
1 (8oz) can Pillsbury Refrigerated Crescent Dinner Rolls
1/2 C. mango chutney

Heat oven to 375. Spray cookie sheet with nonstick cooking spray. In large bowl, combine yogurt, peanut butter, curry powder, ginger, garlic powder and soy sauce; mix well. Add chicken, carrots and cheese; mix well. Separate dough into 4 rectangles. Place on cookie sheet. Firmly press perforations to seal. Press each rectangle to form 5″ square. Spoon chicken mixture onto squares. Bring 4 corners of each dough square up over filling; press edges to seal.
Bake at 375 for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Meanwhile, heat chutney in small saucepan over low heat until hot, stirring occasionally. Serve chutney with sandwiches.

Cast Iron Potatoes

Cast Iron Potatoes

Cast Iron Potatoes

 

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 large baking potatoes

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

2 tablespoons butter

2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese

Salt, to taste

Pepper, to taste

 

Preheat oven to 375°F. Brush bottom and sides of a baking dish or cast iron skillet with olive oil. Using a mandolin or a sharp knife, slice potatoes crosswise into desired thickness. Arrange potato slices vertically and loosely in prepared dish or skillet. Sprinkle garlic and Italian seasoning on top of potatoes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Dot potatoes with butter. Cover skillet or dish with foil and bake for about 1 hour or until potatoes are tender. Remove foil, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes or until crisp.

Cheddar-Stuffed Mushrooms

Cheddar-Stuffed Mushrooms

picrJ7ALU24 large fresh mushrooms, about 2 inches in diameter, cleaned
1/4 C. sliced green onions
1 clove garlic, finely chopped
1/2-3/4 tsp. Tabasco Pepper Sauce
1/4 C. Margarine or Butter
2/3 C. fine dry breadcrumbs
1/2 C. shredded cheddar cheese (about 2 ounces)

Remove stems from mushrooms; reserve caps. Chop enough stems to make 1 cup. Cook and stir chopped stems, green onions, garlic and pepper sauce in butter in large skillet over medium-high heat until tender. Remove from heat; stir in bread crumbs and cheese. Spoon crumb mixture into mushroom caps. Place caps on baking pan. Bake at 425 for 8-10 minutes or until heated through.

Cilantro Lime Chicken Taco Salad

Cilantro Lime Chicken Taco Salad

Cilantro Lime Chicken Taco Salad

1/2 cup mayonnaise

1/2 cup buttermilk

1/3 cup salsa verde chunky preferred

1/3 cup cilantro chopped

1 tablespoon lime juice

2 cloves garlic pressed

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

 

Salad

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

1/2 cup onion finely chopped

4 large chicken breasts diced into bite size pieces

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon cumin

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

14.5 ounces tomatoes diced, with green chiles, 1 can

15 ounces black beans drained and rinsed, 1 can

3 tablespoons cilantro finely chopped

Cilantro lime rice (recipe included)

Shredded lettuce

tomatoes diced

cheese shredded

avocado

tortilla chips

 

Cilantro Lime Rice

1 cup long grain white rice

1 1/4 cups Water

1 teaspoon salt

1 tablespoon lime juice

3 tablespoons cilantro fresh and chopped

1 tablespoon oil optional

 

Preparing the Dressing: In a blender jar, combine mayonnaise, buttermilk, salsa, cilantro, lime juice, garlic, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Pulse until well combined. Refrigerate for several hours or overnight. Select Sauté function on the Instant Pot. When hot, add oil and onion to pot. Sauté onion for 3 minutes. Add chicken and sauté for 2 minutes. Add tomatoes, salt, cumin, and black pepper. Lock the lid in place. Select Manual on the Instant Pot and adjust to high pressure. Set to 2 minutes cook time. When timer beeps, use a quick pressure release to release the pressure. Remove the lid. Select sauté and cook stirring frequently, until liquid has cooked off. Stir in black beans and cilantro. Serve over lettuce topped with chicken, cilantro lime rice, cheese, avocado, crushed tortilla chips, and cilantro lime dressing. To Make the Cilantro Lime Rice: Add the rice, water, 1 tablespoon oil and salt to the pressure cooker pot. Stir. Lock lid in place. Select high pressure and 3 minutes cook time. When timer beeps, turn pressure cooker off and use a natural pressure release for 7 minutes. After 7 minutes do a quick pressure release. Fluff rice with a fork. In a medium bowl, combine chopped cilantro, lime juice, and 1 tablespoon oil. Add rice and toss until thoroughly mixed.

Fiesta Taco Casserole

Fiesta Taco Casserole

1 pound ground beef
1 can (15-16oz) spicy chili beans, undrained
1 C. salsa
2 C. coarsely broken tortilla chips
1/2 C. sour cream
4 medium green onions, sliced (1/2 cup)
1 medium tomato, chopped (3/4 cup)
1 C. shredded Cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese (4oz)
Tortilla chips, shredded lettuce, salsa if desired

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Heat oven to 350. Cook beef in 10″ skillet over medium heat 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until brown; drain. Stir in beans and 1 cup salsa. Heat to boiling, stirring occasionally. Place broken tortilla chips in ungreased 2-quart casserole dish. Top with beef mixture. Spread with sour cream. Sprinkle with onions, tomato and cheese. Bake uncovered 20-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly. Arrange tortilla chips around edge of casserole. Serve with lettuce and salsa.

Chocolate, Orange, and Olive Oil Mini Lava Cake

Chocolate, Orange, and Olive Oil Mini Lava Cake

Chocolate, Orange, and Olive Oil Mini Lava Cake

 

4 T. all-purpose flour

1/4 tsp. seasoning (orange zest)

4 T. of Sugar

1 pinch salt

1 T. of Bitter Cocoa Powder

1/2 tsp. baking powder

1 Medium egg

4 T. of Milk

2 T. Extra-Virgin Olive Oil

 

Set-up the pressure cooker by filling the inner pot with 1 cup of water. Prepare the cup by spreading a coat of olive oil on inside up to the top edge and set aside. In a measuring cup, add the flour, orange zest (or preferred seasoning), sugar, salt cocoa and baking powders and mix with a fork. Then, add the egg, milk, olive oil and mix vigorously until you have a homogeneous mini-cake batter. Pour into mug. (all separate steps on other site) Place the uncovered cup into the pressure cooker. If you are making more than one cup, arrange them so that they are all straight and not touching the inside of the pressure cooker. Close and lock the pressure cooker lid and choose Manual or Pressure Cook on High for 10 minutes cooking time. When time is up, release pressure. Open the top and with an oven-glove covered hand remove from the pot and serve on a saucer with a teaspoon immediately for the gooey center — it will keep cooking so if you let it rest the interior will solidify.

Savory Pork Carnitas

Savory Pork Carnitas

Savory-Pork-Mexican-Carnitas-31 Boston butt pork roast (3-4 pounds), trimmed of visible fat
1 pkg. reduced-sodium taco seasoning
3 cloves garlic, sliced
1 large onion, quartered
1 can (4oz) whole green chiles, drained
6-8 flour tortillas (10″)
Shredded lettuce
Chopped tomatoes
Sliced avocados
Sour cream or queso fresco
Lime wedges
Chopped fresh scallions or Red Onions and fresh cilantro sprigs, for garnish

Place the pork roast, taco seasoning, garlic, onion, and chiles in a 4 1/2-6 quart slow cooker and add about 1 cup of water. Stir to combine. Cover the cooker and cook the pork until it is tender enough to shred, 6 hours on high heat or 10 hours on low. Remove the pork from the cooker and shred the meat with a fork. Spoon some of the shredded pork evenly down the center of a tortilla and roll it up. Repeat with the remaining pork and tortillas. Serve the filled tortillas with shredded lettuce, chopped tomato, sliced avocado, sour cream, and lime wedges. Garnish them with the chopped scallions and cilantro sprigs.

10-minute turkey burgers

10-minute turkey burgers

10-minute turkey burgers

 

1 pound ground turkey

1 egg

½ cup gluten free old fashioned rolled oats

½ cup chopped baby spinach

½ cup chopped green onions or chives

1 tablespoon dried minced onion

1 teaspoon sea salt

Black pepper

3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

 

Place the turkey, egg, oats, spinach, green onion, onion, salt, and pepper to taste in a bowl.  Mix gently to combine. Form into 6 larger or 8 smaller patties Heat a skillet that has a lid over medium high heat and add the oil. Place the patties in the skillet a few at a time. Sauté the patties until lightly browned about 5 minutes, then flip and cover with lid, cooking additional 3 minutes

Classic Cheese Soufflé

Classic Cheese Soufflé

2421192 T. plain dried bread crumbs or freshly grated Parmesan cheese
4 T. butter or margarine
1/4 C all-purpose flour
1/4 tsp. salt
1/9 tsp. ground red pepper (cayenne)
1 1/2 C milk
8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (2 cups)
5 large eggs, separated
1 large egg white

Preheat oven to 325. Grease 2-quart soufflé dish; sprinkle evenly with bread crumbs. In heavy 3-quart saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Stir in flour and ground red pepper until blended; cook, stirring, 1 minute. With wire whisk, gradually whisk in milk. Cook, stirring constantly with wooden spoon, until mixture has thickened and boils. Stir in cheddar; cook, stirring, just until cheese has melted and sauce is smooth. Remove from heat. In small bowl, with wire whisk or fork, lightly beat egg yolks; gradually whisk in 1/2 cup hot cheese sauce. Gradually whisk egg-yolk mixture into cheese sauce in saucepan, stirring rapidly to prevent curdling. Set aside to cool. In large bowl, with mixer at high speed, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form when beaters are lifted. With rubber spatula, gently fold one-third of beaten egg whites into cool cheese mixture. Fold in remaining whites, just until blended. Pour mixture into prepared soufflé dish. If desired, to create top-hat effect (center will rise higher than edge), with back of spoon, make 1″ deep indentation all around top of soufflé mixture about 1″ from edge of dish. Bake until soufflé has puffed, is golden brown, and knife inserted 1″ from edge comes out clean, 55-60 minutes. Serve hot.

Homemade Strawberry Ice Cream

Homemade Strawberry Ice Cream

Homemade Strawberry Ice Cream

1 1/2 cups strawberries, hulled and diced

2 T. honey

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1 tsp. lemon juice

1 cup heavy whipping cream

1/2 cup half and half

1 tsp. vanilla extract

 

In a large bowl, mix strawberries, honey, sugar, and lemon juice. Allow to sit 15-20 minutes, or until the strawberries have released their juices. Mash the mixture with a potato masher, fork, or pastry cutter until there are no longer any large strawberry pieces (if you prefer a smooth ice cream, use a blender or food processor instead*). To the strawberries, mix heavy cream, half and half, and vanilla extract. Stir just until combined. Pour the mixture into your ice cream maker and follow your manufacturer’s instructions (mine took about 15-20 minutes to churn). You can eat the ice cream soft-serve or freeze it in an airtight container for 3-4 hours to thicken it up slightly. For best results, allow the ice cream to sit at room temperature for about 5-10 minutes to soften before serving. Recipe Notes: *If you puree the strawberries, I suggest only using 2/3 – 1 cup of strawberries, as the liquid consistency can make the ice cream less creamy if you use the full 1 1/2 cups.

Hot Cheddar Puffs

Hot Cheddar Puffs

cheddar-cheese-puffs-b2 tsp. curry powder
1/2 tsp. ground coriander
1/2 tsp. ground cumin
1/4 tsp. ground red pepper (cayenne)
6 T. butter or margarine, cut into pieces
1/2 tsp. salt
1 C water
1 C all-purpose flour
4 large eggs
4 ounces cheddar cheese, shredded (1 cup)

Preheat oven to 400. Grease two large cookie sheets. In a 3-quart saucepan, combine curry powder, coriander, cumin, and ground red pepper. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until very fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in butter, salt, and water; heat to boiling over high heat. Remove from heat. With wooden spoon, stir in flour all at once. Return pan to medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until mixture forms a ball and leaves side of pan. Remove from heat. Stir in eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition, until batter is smooth and satiny. Stir in cheddar. Spoon batter into large pastry bag fitted with 1/2″ plain tip. Pipe batter, about 1 inch apart, on cookie sheets, forming 1″ wide and 3/4″ high mounds. Alternatively, drop teaspoons of dough on cookie sheets. With fingertip dipped in cool water, smooth peaks. Bake puffs until deep golden, 25-30 minutes, rotating cookie sheets between oven racks halfway through baking. Transfer to wire racks to cool. Repeat with remaining batter. Serve puffs at room temperature or reheat in 400 degree oven 5 minutes to serve hot.

Lemon Curd Ice Cream

Lemon Curd Ice Cream

Lemon Curd Ice Cream

 

1 3/4 C. cream

3/4 C. 2% milk

3/4 C. sugar

1/4 tsp. salt

5 egg yolks

1 C.  lemon curd  (store-bought may be used, but ice cream is better with homemade!)

 

To make ice cream, in a medium size saucepan add cream, milk, 1/2 C. of the sugar and salt.  Heat over medium/low heat until steaming.  Whisk egg yolks and slowly add the remaining 1/4 C. sugar. When the cream mixture is hot and steaming, slowly pour a small amount of the hot cream mixture into the egg yolk mixture stirring constantly.  Continue to add at least 1/2 of the hot cream mixture.  Slowly pour the egg/cream mixture back into the pan and cook over low heat until the mixture coats the back of a spoon. Stirring constantly with a wooden spoon.  Remove from heat and pour into a bowl.  Cover and chill completely about 2 hours or overnight. When ready to freeze, pour the ice cream custard into a ice cream maker and freeze according to manufacturer’s directions.  Add lemon curd the last 5 – 10 minutes of mixing.  Makes about a 1 1/2 to 2 pints of ice cream.

Chicken Marsala

Chicken Marsala

chickenm1/8 tsp. black pepper
1/4 tsp. salt
1/4 C. flour
4 (5 oz. total) chicken breasts, boned, skinless
1 T. olive oil
1/2 C. Marsala wine
1/2 C. chicken stock, fat skimmed from top
1/2 lemon, juice only
1/2 C. mushrooms, sliced
1 T. fresh parsley, chopped

Mix together pepper, salt, and flour. Coat chicken with seasoned flour. In heavy-bottomed skillet, heat oil. Place chicken breasts in skillet and brown on both sides, then remove and set aside. To skillet, add wine and stir until heated. Add juice, stock, and mushrooms. Stir, reduce heat, and cook for about 10 minutes, until sauce is partially reduced. Return browned chicken breasts to skillet. Spoon sauce over chicken. Cover and cook for about 5–10 minutes or until chicken is done. Serve sauce over chicken. Garnish with chopped parsley.
Yield: 4 servings
Calories: 285
Fat: 8g
Fiber: 1g

Strawberry Limeade Slurpie

Strawberry Limeade Slurpie

Strawberry Limeade Slurpie

This is a spectacular summertime treat—so refreshing on a hot day. You can also use this recipe to make ice pops.

 

2 limes, juiced

2 T. agave nectar

6 frozen strawberries

1 C. ice cubes

1 tsp. pure maple syrup

 

Place all the ingredients in a high-powered blender and blend until smooth. Pour into glasses and serve immediately.

Skewered Ribeye Steak Bites with Bloody Mary Dipping Sauce

Skewered Ribeye Steak Bites with Bloody Mary Dipping Sauce

fa7ece74Good quality beef steak; trimmed of excess fat (and gristle & connective tissue if any). Cut meat into 1-inch cubes.

1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons minced yellow or white onion
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1-2 teaspoons hot pepper sauce (Such as Tabasco)
1 cup tomato sauce
1 rounded tablespoon prepared horseradish
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
Optional: 1/2 cup vodka

In a small saucepan, over medium heat sauté onion in olive oil until translucent. If using vodka add it now and allow to simmer until volume reduces by about half. Stir in remaining ingredients, simmer for a minute or two then reduce heat. Taste for seasonings, and adjust if necessary. (Sauce can be served warm or at room temperature.) Cut meat into approximately 1-inch cubes. If you are going to pan sear them, no need to skewer meat, just salt and pepper the meat and cook in a hot pan, turning as the cubes become brown and done to your liking. Place on a warmed platter with skewers and dipping sauce in a small bowl alongside. To grill or broil, cut meat as directed above, skewer meat, salt & pepper and grill/broil until cooked the way you prefer. I place some dipping sauce on a warm plate/platter, arrange the cooked meat on top, with additional sauce on the side. A shower of minced parsley or chives brightens up the dish.

Instant Pot 10-minute Caramelized Onions

Instant Pot 10-minute Caramelized Onions

Instant Pot 10-minute Caramelized Onions

 

1 large onion, thinly sliced

1 to 2 tsp. extra-virgin olive oil

¼ to ½ tsp. balsamic vinegar

Sea salt

Black pepper

 

Preheat a pressure cooker using the SAUTE function. Press the SAUTE button until the screen says MORE. When the display panel reads HOT, add all the ingredients and move them around with a wooden spoon, cooking until they are reduced, about 10 minutes. Remove the onions and place in a bowl to serve at once or pack into a jar and refrigerate for future use.

Manakeesh

Manakeesh

Israeli_zaatar_manakeesh1 T. active dry yeast (or 1/2 oz. compressed yeast) — (1 envelope)
1 tsp. sugar
1 1/4 C. lukewarm water
3 1/4 C. all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp. salt
6 T. extra virgin olive oil
4 T. zaatar

Proof the yeast in a few tablespoons of the warm water, with the sugar mixed in. Sift the flour and salt into a large bowl and make a well in the center. Add the yeast mixture and remaining water and knead until you have a firm dough. Transfer to a floured work surface and continue to knead for 10-15 minutes or until smooth and elastic. During this time, knead in 1 tablespoon olive oil into the dough – this will make it softer. Wash and dry the mixing bowl and grease with a little oil. Add the dough and roll around in the bowl until well oiled. Cover with a clean cloth and leave in a warm place to rise for about 2 hours or until doubled in bulk. Punch down the dough and knead for a few minutes. Divide into 10 portions and roll each between your palms until smooth and round. Flour a work surface. Flatten each round with a rolling pin until it is circular, even, and about 1/4 inch thick. Cover and leave in a warm place to rise for 20 more minutes. Preheat the oven to 450F. Put 2 large oiled baking sheets in the oven to heat. Brush the tops of the rounds with a little of the olive oil. Mix the remaining oil with the zaatar and spread the mixture over the surface of each round. Slide the bread onto the hot baking sheets and bake for 8-10 minutes. Remove from the oven and place on wire racks to cool.

Sumac-Roasted Chicken Salad

Sumac-Roasted Chicken Salad

2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for drizzling
1 tablespoon ground sumac
1 tablespoon kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, plus more for serving
4 garlic cloves, grated
1 (4 to 5 pound) bone-in, skin-on whole chicken
1 lemon, quartered

2 bunches baby beets, trimmed and cleaned
2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for the bread and serving
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
2 teaspoon good-quality balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon honey
1 bunch arugula or watercress (about 2 cups)
Juice of half a lemon
1 pound ripe strawberries, hulled and quartered
4 (1-inch) thick pieces of country bread
1 garlic clove, cut in half

Combine the oil, sumac, salt, thyme leaves, and garlic in a bowl and mix until well combined. Rub the chicken inside and out (and under the skin) with the mixture. Put a few turns of freshly ground black pepper all over the chicken. Squeeze the lemon quarters all over the chicken then place them in the cavity. (If you can, do this 4 to 8 hours ahead and refrigerate the bird uncovered.) Otherwise, let it rest uncovered at room temperature. Heat oven to 475°F and arrange a rack in the middle. Meanwhile, lay a piece of foil on a baking sheet. Drizzle beets with some of the oil, season with a pinch of salt, and roast until a pairing knife comes out easily, about 1 hour. Meanwhile, place a large cast-iron or other heavy, ovenproof skillet in the oven and heat at least 15 minutes. (If you seasoned the chicken in advance, take it out of the fridge so it can warm to room temperature.) Using a sharp knife, cut the chicken skin connecting the legs to the body. Splay the thighs open until you feel the joint pop on each side. Carefully transfer chicken, breast-side up, to the hot skillet. Press down on the legs so they rest flat on the bottom of the pan and drizzle all over with a spoonful of oil. Roast for 30 minutes. Rotate the pan 180° then continue to roast the chicken until the thigh meat is no longer pink, 15 to 20 minutes more (for a total cooking time of 45 to 50 minutes). Remove chicken from oven, tent loosely with aluminum foil, and let chicken rest for 5 minutes before carving. When the beets are ready, set them aside until they are cool enough to handle. Peel them and cut them into quarters. Toss the beets with the vinegar and honey. Meanwhile, brush the bread slices with the olive oil on both sides. While you carve the chicken, toast the bread in the oven until crisp. When the croutons are toasted, rub one side of each slice of bread with the cut end of a raw garlic clove. When ready to serve, toss the watercress or arugula with the remaining oil and lemon juice, then season with salt and pepper. Carve the chicken and serve a quarter of the meat over each a piece of bread and ladle with pan juices. Divide the lettuces, beets, and berries amongst the bowls, top with a squeeze of lemon, a drizzle of olive oil, some additional fresh thyme and serve.

Baked Parmesan Summer Vegetables

Baked Parmesan Summer Vegetables

Baked Parmesan Summer Vegetables

 

1 medium-sized zucchini

1 medium-sized yellow summer squash

1 pint of small tomatoes

Garlic salt & freshly ground black pepper

1/2 to 3/4 C. freshly grated Parmesan cheese

 

Place an oven rack in the center position of the oven. Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with foil (lightly misted with nonstick cooking spray) OR parchment paper. Wash and dry the zucchini and squash, and then cut each one into 1/4-inch thick slices. Evenly arrange the zucchini and squash rounds on the prepared pan. Wash, dry, and cut each tomato in half and place the tomato halves, cut sides up, in the empty spaces between the zucchini and squash rounds. Lightly sprinkle the vegetables with garlic salt and freshly ground black pepper. Use a small spoon to spread a thin layer of Parmesan cheese on each veggie. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the Parmesan melts and turns a light golden brown. (Watch these closely the first time you make them and pull them out of the oven early if the Parmesan is golden before 15 minutes. Alternatively, you may broil them for a minute or two at the end of the cooking time to speed up the browning.) Serve immediately.

Fruity French Toast

Fruity French Toast

startoast2 eggs
¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon milk
6 slices whole wheat bread
3 teaspoons thinly sliced fruit,
Berries or low-sugar fruit preserves
6 ounces skim milk cheese (queso fresco) or goat cheese, thinly sliced
1 cup fresh fruit, sliced or diced
1 cooking spray

In a bowl large enough to dip the bread, whisk the eggs, cinnamon and milk together. Cut each piece of bread into 4 pieces with a knife or cookie cutter. Dip the bread in the egg mixture, moistening both sides. Heat a non-stick pan and coat with cooking spray. Cook the bread for 2 – 3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Spread fruit on one side of each slice of bread. Place cheese on top of the fruit. Cover with a second piece of bread. Repeat with remaining bread, cheese and fruit. Serve with fruit.

Yield: 6 servings
Calories: 147
Fat: 5g
Fiber: 2g

Yellow Split Pea & Cumin Dal with Brown Rice

Yellow Split Pea & Cumin Dal with Brown Rice

4442 cups Yellow Split Peas
6 cups water
½ tsp. Turmeric
2¼ tsp. Kosher Salt
3 Tbs. Organic Canola Oil
11/2 tsp. Cumin Seed
2 Yellow Onions, peeled, trimmed and finely chopped
¼ – ½ Cayenne Pepper, optional
4 Tbs. chopped Coriander (cilantro) Leaves, garnish

Pick over the peas for any debris, then rinse under cold running water, until the water runs clear. Place the drained peas on a large bowl and cover with cold water to 1” above the peas, soak for 1 hour. Drain the peas and place them in a large pot with the turmeric and water, bring to a boil, stirring occasionally to ensure that the peas don’t stick to the pan or lump together. Reduce to a simmer and cook until soft, stirring occasionally to ensure that the peas don’t stick to the pan. Once the peas are soft, whisk them with a wire whisk until the peas become a puree. Measure the puree, there should be 10 cups of the puree, if there is less than 10 cups, add water to increase the volume to 10 cups. In a frying pan heat the oil over medium high heat, add the cumin seed and stir until dark brown, about 10 seconds. Add the onions and fry, stirring continuously, until they turn dark brown, about 20 minutes. Add the cayenne pepper and pour into the split peas. Adjust the salt and serve with Brown Basmati rice (pg. 3), garnish with chopped coriander.

Instant Pot Strawberry Shortcake Oatmeal

Instant Pot Strawberry Shortcake Oatmeal

Instant Pot Strawberry Shortcake Oatmeal

 

Pink and delightful, this breakfast dessert is quite the treat! Don’t have fresh strawberries on hand? No need to fret—just blend 1 C. frozen strawberries with 1 C. of the water from the recipe and use instead!

 

2½ C. water or milk of choice (use milk with a creamy texture)

1 C. mashed hulled strawberries

1 C. gluten-free old-fashioned rolled oats

2 T. 100% pure maple syrup or agave nectar

1 T. extra-virgin coconut oil

½ tsp. pure vanilla extract

â…› tsp. fine sea salt

¼ C. unsweetened shredded coconut (optional)

 

Place the water, strawberries, oats, maple syrup, coconut oil, vanilla, and sea salt in an electric pressure cooker and stir to combine. Place the lid on the pot. Make sure the vent valve is in the SEALING position. Using the display panel, select the MANUAL/PRESSURE COOK function and HIGH PRESSURE, and use the +/− buttons until the display reads 8 minutes. When the cooker beeps to let you know it’s finished, switch the vent valve from the SEALING to the VENTING position, administering a quick release. Use caution while the steam escapes—it’s hot. Divide the oatmeal evenly among 4 bowls. Serve warm, topped with shredded coconut if desired.

Baked B-B-Q Meatballs

Baked B-B-Q Meatballs

1e72784bae313667734bd98705b705042 pounds ground beef
¾ cup rolled oats
1 cup non-fat milk
3 teaspoons dried onion flakes
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon pepper
all-purpose flour

Sauce:
2 tablespoons sugar
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 cup ketchup
½ cup water
3 tablespoons vinegar
6 tablespoons dried onion flakes

Preheat oven to 350ºF. Combine ingredients and form into small balls. Roll in flour and brown in a skillet. Place meatballs in baking dish. Combine all ingredients for sauce and pour over meatballs. Bake at 350ºF for 30 to 40 minutes.

Yield: 10 servings
Calories: 320
Fat: 18g
Fiber: 0g

Lime Spritzer

Lime Spritzer

lime3/4 cup Frozen pineapple juice concentrate, thawed
1/2 cup Lime juice, bottled or fresh
1 1/2 cups Water
1 1/2 cups Club soda or any unflavored, unsweetened carbonated water

Combine thawed pineapple juice concentrate, lime juice, water, and club soda in a pitcher. Stir with a spoon until the juices are well blended and any frozen juice has dissolved. Pour over ice and enjoy!

Instant Pot Easy Egg Bites

Instant Pot Easy Egg Bites

Instant Pot Easy Egg Bites

 

1 tsp. salted butter or ghee, for greasing the pan

9 large eggs

½ C. shredded pepper Jack cheese (optional)

¾ tsp. garlic powder

¾ tsp. fine sea salt

¼ tsp. ground black pepper

1½ C. chopped baby spinach

½ C. diced seeded red bell pepper

 

Preheat the oven to 400°F. Grease a 12-C. muffin pan. Combine the eggs, cheese, garlic powder, sea salt, and black pepper in a high-powered blender. Blend on high until frothy, about 30 seconds. You can also thoroughly whisk the mixture in a large bowl if you do not have a blender. Evenly distribute the spinach and bell pepper among the muffin C.. Pour the egg mixture over the spinach and pepper, filling each C. three-fourths full. Bake for 16 to 18 minutes, until the eggs set up and are cooked through. Transfer to a wire rack and cool for 5 minutes. Run a butter knife around the edge of each C. and pop out the egg bites. Serve warm. Note: Store the bites in the freezer in an airtight container or freezer zip-top plastic bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave for 30 to 60 seconds.

Zucchini Sauté

Zucchini Sauté

zucchini1¼ pounds zucchini (about 3 medium zucchini)
½ teaspoon olive oil
1 tablespoon dried oregano
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1 teaspoon grated lemon peel
1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

Cut zucchini in half crosswise, then cut each half into 4 lengthwise sticks. Heat oil in a heavy nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add oregano and garlic, and sauté for about 2 minutes. Add zucchini and lemon peel, and sauté for about 3 minutes until zucchini is lightly browned. Mix in Parmesan cheese and pepper. Serve warm.

Instant Pot Easy Spiced Apple Cider

Instant Pot Easy Spiced Apple Cider

Instant Pot Easy Spiced Apple Cider

 

2 tangerines or 1 orange, peeled and segmented

3 Honeycrisp apples, cored and thinly sliced

1 tsp. pumpkin pie spice

1 T. dark brown sugar

1 quart (32 fluid ounces) water

 

In the Instant Pot, combine the tangerine segments, apples, pumpkin pie spice, brown sugar, and water. Cover and cook on high pressure for 15 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally. Use a potato masher to mash up the fruit in the pot. Strain the cider through a fine-mesh sieve (discard the solids). Serve the cider hot.

Chickpea Soup with Greens and Pasta (Zuppa di Ceci & Verdure)

Chickpea Soup with Greens and Pasta (Zuppa di Ceci & Verdure)

1 lb. Dry Chickpeas, soaked in water overnight
2 cloves Garlic, cracked and peeled, left whole
1/3 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
8 oz. Pancetta or Pepper Bacon, chopped
2 medium Yellow Onions, peeled, trimmed and finely chopped, about 3 cups
2 tsp. finely chopped Garlic
½ tsp. Red Chili Flakes, optional
4 cups roughly chopped Escarole or Chard, stems removed
4 cups Vegetable or Chicken Stock/Broth
8 oz. Small Pasta Shells, Cocciolette, cooked and cooled
2 to 4 Tbs. Red Wine Vinegar
Kosher Salt, to taste
Black Pepper, freshly ground, to taste
¾ cup grated good quality Parmesan Cheese

Drain the beans, rinse them and place them in a large pot with the garlic cloves, cover with water, bring to a boil, turn down to a simmer and cook until tender. Drain the beans, reserving 2/3 of the cooking with the beans. Heat the olive oil over medium high heat in a large soup pot, brown the pancetta or pepper bacon, then add the onions and sauté until they smell sweet and are translucent. Add the garlic and chili peppers, if you are using them, sauté for 3 to 5 minutes, then add the escarole, or chard, and continue cooking until wilted. Add the stock/broth and chickpeas; bring to a boil, and then turn down to a simmer for 20 minutes. Add the vinegar and adjust the salt and pepper. When you are ready to serve the soup, heat the soup to very hot, drop the pasta into boiling water for 1 minute, then drain and add to the soup. Garnish with Parmesan cheese.

Instant Pot Pumpkin Pie Steel Cut Oatmeal

Instant Pot Pumpkin Pie Steel Cut Oatmeal

Instant Pot Pumpkin Pie Steel Cut Oatmeal

 

2 ½ C. Water

1 C. steel cut oats; do not use the quick cooking variety

1/2 C. canned pumpkin

1 tsp. pumpkin pie spice

1/4 tsp. salt

1/3 C. brown sugar

3 C. water

1 C. half & half or alternative milk – optional, to serve

1/2 C. toasted nuts for optional topping

 

  1. Place the water, oats, pumpkin puree, maple syrup, chia seeds, pumpkin pie spice, and sea salt in an electric pressure cooker and stir to combine. 2. Place the lid on the pot. Make sure the vent valve is in the SEALING position. Using the display panel, select the MANUAL/PRESSURE COOK function and HIGH PRESSURE, and use the +/− buttons until the display reads 15minutes. 3. When the cooker beeps to let you know it’s finished, switch the vent valve from the SEALING to the VENTING position, administering a quick release. Use caution while the steam escapes—it’s hot. 4. Stir in the walnuts and serve with a drizzle of milk of your choice, if desired, to cool the oats faster.
Beef with Hilopites

Beef with Hilopites

2404033781_ec95990ba01 T. olive oil
1 lb. beef, cut into 1″ pieces
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 T. dried or about 3 T. fresh parsley
3 T. tomato paste
3 cups water
1/4 heaping tsp. cinnamon
1/8 tsp. ground cloves
1/2 lb. hilopites
salt and pepper

Heat olive oil in a deep saute pan. Season the beef with salt and pepper and then add to the oil to brown, in batches if necessary. Remove with a slotted spoon. Add the onion to the pan and cook until translucent. Stir in the garlic and parsley (if you are using dried) and saute an additional minute before adding the tomato paste. Cook off the tomato paste for about 30 seconds, and then add the water. Be sure to scrape all the browned bits off the bottom of the pan. Add the cinnamon, cloves, and salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a boil and then add the beef back in. Reduce the heat and simmer, covered, for about an hour or really as long as you’d like (the longer you simmer, the more tender the beef gets). Add the hilopites and simmer, uncovered, until done, stirring occasionally. If you are using fresh parsley add it around the same time as you add the hilopites.