Fennel-Orange Salad with Green Olives

Fennel-Orange Salad with Green Olives

 

4 navel oranges (about 8 oz. each)

1 head fennel (about 12 oz.), stalks and discolored ends trimmed and discarded

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

Salt and fresh-ground pepper

1/2 cup pitted green olives

 

Cut ends off oranges, then cut away peel and outer membrane of fruit in wide strips, following the curve of the orange with the knife. Discard peel; slice fruit crosswise 1/2 inch thick and arrange slices on a large rimmed plate. Rinse fennel and thinly slice crosswise (or use a mandoline); arrange slices over oranges. Drizzle olive oil evenly over fennel and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. Scatter olives over salad.

Halibut Roasted on a Bed of Salt

Halibut Roasted on a Bed of Salt

 

About 5 cups coarse sea salt

6 pieces halibut (6 to 8 oz. each; 1 1/2 in. thick), rinsed and patted dry

Salt and pepper

1 tablespoon olive oil

About 1 cup lightly packed fresh thyme sprigs, rinsed

About 1 cup lightly packed fresh oregano sprigs, rinsed

20 fresh or dried bay leaves

1 Meyer or regular lemon, rinsed and thinly sliced crosswise

Herb oil

 

Spread salt level (about 1 in. deep) in a 5- to 6-quart oval or 9- by 13-inch rectangular baking dish. Heat in a 450º regular or convection oven until very hot, about 20 minutes. Meanwhile, sprinkle one side of halibut lightly with salt and pepper. Pour olive oil into a 10- to 12-inch nonstick frying pan over high heat. When hot, place fish pieces in pan, seasoned side down, without crowding; work in batches if necessary. Cook until lightly browned on the bottom, about 2 minutes. Remove baking dish from oven and distribute thyme and oregano sprigs, bay leaves, and all but three of the lemon slices evenly over hot salt (some salt will still be visible). Set halibut pieces browned side up over herbs and salt, spacing evenly. Cut reserved lemon slices in half and place half a slice on each piece of fish. Bake until fish is opaque but still moist- looking in center of thickest part (cut to test), 15 to 20 minutes. Serve with herb oil to drizzle over fish to taste.

 

Brunch Flatbread with Eggs, Bacon, and Frisée

Brunch Flatbread with Eggs, Bacon, and Frisée

 

1 package (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast

About 1 teaspoon salt

About 1/4 cup olive oil

3 1/2 to 3 3/4 cups all-purpose flour

8 ounces thick-cut bacon, chopped

About 1/4 cup yellow cornmeal

1 1/3 cups shredded parmesan or manchego cheese

12 large eggs

Pepper

1 tablespoon red wine vinegar

3 ounces baby spinach (about 2 cups), rinsed and crisped

3 ounces frisée lettuce leaves (about 2 cups), rinsed and crisped

 

In a large bowl, sprinkle yeast over 1 1/2 cups warm (110°) water. Let stand until yeast is softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in 1 teaspoon salt and 1 tablespoon olive oil. Gradually stir or, with an electric mixer on low speed, beat in 3 1/2 cups flour until mixture forms a soft dough. If using a dough hook, beat on high speed until dough no longer feels sticky and pulls cleanly from bowl, 5 to 7 minutes. If dough is still sticky, beat in more flour, 1 tablespoon at a time. If kneading by hand, scrape dough onto a lightly floured board. Knead until smooth, springy, and no longer sticky, 15 to 20 minutes; add flour as required to prevent sticking. Place dough in an oiled bowl; turn dough over to coat top. Cover dough with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place until doubled, 35 to 45 minutes. Punch dough down, cover, and chill up to 8 hours (see notes). Meanwhile, in a 10- to 12-inch frying pan over medium-high heat, stir bacon until browned and crisp, about 5 minutes. Transfer to paper towels to drain. Reserve 1 tablespoon bacon drippings to dress greens, if desired. At least 2 hours before serving, remove dough from refrigerator and let stand at room temperature for 45 minutes (see notes). Scrape onto a lightly floured board and press gently to expel air. Divide dough into four pieces. Cover with plastic wrap and let rest 10 minutes. Roll or gently stretch one piece at a time into a 13- by 7-inch oval about 1/16 inch thick. Place each on an oiled and cornmeal-dusted 12- by 15-inch rimless baking sheet; if necessary, stretch dough to reshape. Brush each oval with about 1/2 tablespoon olive oil and sprinkle with about 1/3 cup cheese. Arrange a quarter of the cooked bacon evenly over each. Bake flatbreads two at a time in a 450° oven for 10 minutes. Remove from oven and crack 3 eggs onto each oval (for firm-cooked eggs, crack eggs onto flatbread 5 minutes into baking). Sprinkle lightly with salt and pepper. Return flatbreads to oven, switching pan positions, and bake until crust is well browned, 5 to 8 minutes longer. Meanwhile, in a large bowl, mix 1 tablespoon olive oil or reserved bacon drippings and the vinegar. Add spinach and frisée and mix to coat. Slide each flatbread onto a cutting board or plate. Mound dressed greens equally on top. Cut each oval in half lengthwise, then crosswise into eight slices. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Roll-ups

Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Roll-ups

 

2 pieces soft lahvosh or flatbread (about 13 by 18 in. each)

1 carton (8 oz.) whipped cream cheese

2 tablespoons chopped parsley

Salt and pepper

12 ounces thin-sliced smoked salmon

1 English cucumber (about 8 oz.), rinsed and very thinly sliced

3/4 cup very thinly sliced red onion (about 4 oz.)

 

Place one piece of lahvosh on a sheet of plastic wrap. With a flexible spatula or a knife, spread about 1/2 cup cream cheese in a thin, even layer over entire surface of bread. Sprinkle with 1 tablespoon parsley, then lightly with salt and pepper. Arrange half the smoked salmon slices on top, leaving a 1-inch border along short ends of lahvosh. Arrange half the cucumber and onion slices evenly over salmon. Beginning at a short end, roll lahvosh as tightly as possible, taking care not to push filling forward as you go. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap. Repeat to fill, roll, and wrap second lahvosh. Chill rolls for at least 1 hour or up to 8 hours. Unwrap rolls and trim off about 1 inch from each end (save to eat later). Cut each roll into eight equal pieces and arrange on a platter

Pears and Dates with Vanilla-Orange

Pears and Dates with Vanilla-Orange

 

1 pint regular or low-fat plain yogurt

1/2 vanilla bean, halved lengthwise, or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 tablespoons frozen orange juice concentrate

1 tablespoon honey

5 ripe Bartlett pears (about 2 1/2 lb. total), rinsed

8 ounces fresh Medjool dates (about 10), pitted and chopped

 

Spoon yogurt into a bowl. Scrape seeds from vanilla bean into yogurt (reserve pod for other uses). Stir in orange juice concentrate and honey until well blended. Peel and core pears; cut lengthwise into 1-inch-thick slices. Arrange pears and dates in bowls and top each with about 1/4 cup vanilla-orange yogurt.

Shrimp Toast (Ha Toe See)

Shrimp Toast (Ha Toe See)

1 tsp. Salt

1/2 lb. Shrimp; fresh; raw

2 T. Sherry

6 sl White sandwich bread

1 sm Egg; lightly beaten

2 Fresh pork fat pieces

2 Green onion stalks; chop

8 Water chestnuts

Sesame seeds

3 T. Cornstarch

Paprika

Leave bread out on a platter for 2 hours to dry. Trim crusts and cut each slice into 4 squares. Shell, devein and clean shrimp. Mince them into a fine, pulp like paste. Chop pork fat and water chestnuts until fine. Then mix with shrimp, green onions, salt, sherry, cornstarch and beaten egg. Mix well and spread mixture on the bread, making a slight mound on each piece. Sprinkle sesame seeds and paprika on the filling and press lightly so they adhere to the mixture. COOKING: Heat 4 cups of oil in the wok. Drop bread, shrimp side down, into oil and fry for 30 seconds. Turn and fry on the other side for another 30 seconds. (This is estimated time, since it depends on how hot the oil is. Use your judgment.) Both sides should be golden. Drain on paper towel and serve hot. DO AHEAD NOTES: Deep fry bread and mixture until it becomes a light beige color, then cool and freeze. To reheat, preheat oven at 350 degrees, place frozen toast in a single layer on a cookie sheet and heat for 12 minutes. If toast already is thawed, reheat for 5 to 6 minutes. The toast will become a deeper brown as its reheated. COMMENTS: Another way to serve this toast is by cutting each piece of bread diagonally into 2 triangles and spread on mixture. Top with a halved prawn in a lemon twist fashion and deep fry as usual. Arrange toast on a round platter, pin wheel fashion. Top with cherry tomatoes or parsley sprigs in the center of the pinwheel.

Scallops and Chinese Radish Balls

Scallops and Chinese Radish Balls

 

1 ½ oz. dried Scallops

1 ½ C. Hot Chicken Broth

2 Chinese Radishes, about 2 lb.

2 T. Peanut or Vegetable Oil

1 slice Ginger Root

½ tsp. Salt

1 T. tapioca starch dissolved in 1 ½ T. Water

 

Soak dried scallops in ½ cup hot broth for about 30 minutes. Steam scallops with broth for about 30 minutes. When cool, shred scallops with fingers. Save broth for later use. Use a small melon ball scoop to cut the radishes into about 30 small balls. In a pot of boiling water, cook radish balls about 10 minutes; drain and soak in cold water. Heat oil in wok over medium-high heat. Add ginger and radish balls and stir fry a few seconds. Add shredded scallops with their broth, the rice wine, salt and remaining 1 C. broth. Cook over low heat 1 minute. Stir in tapioca starch mixture and cook briefly, until thickened. Dried Shrimp can be substituted for the dried Scallops. Prepare the same way, but do not shred. From: Dim Sum Made Easy

Steamed Turkey Pearl Balls

Steamed Turkey Pearl Balls

 

1 1/4 C. Glutinous rice

1 lb. Ground turkey

10 Dried Chinese mushrooms, soaked 20 minutes, stems removed and caps finely chopped

1 C. Canned water chestnuts, coarsely chopped

1 3/8 T. Minced fresh ginger

1 T. Minced scallions

3 T. Soy sauce

1 1/2 T. Rice wine or sake

1 1/2 T. Sesame oil

2 T. Cornstarch

Soy sauce for dipping (opt)

 

Using your fingers as a rake, rinse the rice under cold running water until the water runs clear. Drain and transfer to a baking pan. In a bowl mix the turkey, mushrooms, water chestnuts and seasonings. Line steamer trays with parchment or wax paper. Scrape teaspoon of the turkey mixture into balls and roll in the rice until completely covered. Arrange 1″ apart on the steamer trays. Cover and steam 25 minutes, or until cooked through. Serve immediately with soy sauce.

Chinese Deep-Fried Shrimp Balls

Chinese Deep-Fried Shrimp Balls

 

1 pound medium-sized shrimp in shells

3 ounces ground pork

 

Marinade:

¼ teaspoon white pepper

½ teaspoon salt

2 teaspoons minced ginger

2 tablespoons cornstarch

1 tablespoon dry sherry

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 egg white

 

 

¼ cup flour

3 cups cooking oil for deep-frying

 

Honey mustard sauce:

2 teaspoons mustard powder

1 tablespoon soy sauce

2 tablespoons rice vinegar

2 tablespoons plum sauce

¼ cup honey

 

Shell, devein, and rinse shrimp. Drain thoroughly. Add shrimp, pork and marinade to a food processor using the metal blade. Process for a few seconds, until shrimp is pasty. Remove to a bowl. Dust a cookie sheet with flour. Shape shrimp mixture into 1-inch balls. Place them on the cookie sheet.

To Cook: Heat 3 cups oil in a wok to 375 °F. Drop 8 shrimp balls into hot oil carefully, one at a time. Deep-fry for 3 to 5 minutes. Drain on paper towels. Deep-fry the remaining shrimp balls and serve with honey mustard sauce.

Shrimp, Scallop and Pork Shumai

Shrimp, Scallop and Pork Shumai

 

Filling:

1/2 pound medium shrimp, shelled and deveined

1/2 pound bay scallops

1/2 pound ground pork

2 tablespoons minced fresh ginger

2 tablespoons minced fresh cilantro leaves

2 tablespoons minced shallots

2 teaspoons rice wine vinegar

1 tablespoon sesame oil

2 egg white, whipped

Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

2 teaspoons cornstarch

1/2 lemon, juiced

1 (10-ounce) package round wonton wrappers (about 40 to 50 wrappers per package)

1 cup frozen peas

 

Canola oil, for brushing the steamer

Savoy cabbage, for lining the steamer, optional

Minced green onions, for garnish

Serving suggestion: soy sauce or dipping sauces of your choice

 

To make the filling: Combine the shrimp, scallops, pork, ginger, cilantro, shallots, vinegar, sesame oil and egg whites in a food processor. Season with salt and pepper, add the corn starch and lemon juice and pulse to combine– I like my fillings to have a little texture. (Alternatively chop the shrimp and scallops finely then add the pork, ginger, cilantro and vinegar and chop together. Transfer the mixture to a bowl and rapidly mix in the vinegar, sesame oil, egg whites, seasoning, corn starch and lemon juice.) To make the shumai: Hold a wonton wrapper in your hand. Spoon 1 tablespoon of the filling into the center of the wrapper (rinse the spoon in cold water so the filling doesn’t stick). Gather the edges of the wrapper up around the filling and squeeze the sides together with your fingers forming a little pleated cup. (The sides will naturally pleat, leaving the filling slightly exposed.) Tap the dumpling on the table so the bottom is flat and it stands upright then set aside on a baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling. Top each shumai with a pea. (You can freeze any leftover filling.) Lightly oil the bottom of a bamboo steamer then line it with the cabbage leaves. Stand the dumplings in the steamer in a single layer taking care that they don’t touch one another. (A 10-inch steamer will accommodate 12 shumai). Bring about 2 inches of water to a boil in a wok. Set the bamboo steamer in the wok, cover it with the bamboo lid and steam until the shumai feel firm, 10 to 12 minutes. Serve the shumai immediately garnished with green onions and accompanied by soy sauce or dipping sauces of your choice.

Steamed Chicken and Shiitake Buns

Steamed Chicken and Shiitake Buns

 

Dim Sum Buns:

3/4 cup warm water

1/8 cup sugar

1/2 tablespoon dry yeast

1/2 tablespoon melted lard

2 1/2 cups sifted all-purpose flour

5 tablespoons water

 

Chicken and Shiitake Stuffing:

Canola oil, to cook

1 tablespoon minced garlic

1 tablespoon minced ginger

2 cups sliced shiitake mushrooms

Salt and black pepper

2 cups ground chicken meat

1/3 cup chopped chives

1 tablespoon truffle oil

 

Buns: Mix warm water with sugar to dissolve. Add yeast and let stand for 10 minutes. Mixture should get foamy, or the yeast is dead. Mix in lard. In a food processor, add flour and yeast mixture. While blade is spinning, pour in water until a ball forms. If dough is too sticky, add more flour. If dough appears dry and doesn’t form a ball, add more water. As soon as a ball forms, take dough out and knead by hand on a floured surface. For 10 minutes roll dough into one long log about 2-inches thick. Cut into 2-inch pieces. Filling: In a sauté pan coated with oil, sauté garlic and ginger. Add shiitakes and cook until soft. Season with salt and pepper. Let mixture cool. Assembly: In a bowl, mix shiitakes, chicken, chives, and truffle oil. Season with salt and pepper. Keep filling chilled before stuffing buns. Form thick circles and place about 1 tablespoon of stuffing in the middle of each piece of dough. Encircle stuffing with the dough, but do not seal. Let rest in a warm place for 30 minutes. In a steamer basket, steam buns for 10 to 12 minutes.

Bacon-Wrapped Broiled Salmon

Bacon-Wrapped Broiled Salmon

 

3 to 4 tablespoons grainy mustard

1 to 2 tablespoon minced dill, plus a few sprigs for garnish (optional)

Kosher or sea salt

1 tablespoon slightly crushed pink peppercorns

4 6-ounce boneless, skinless salmon fillets, preferably at least 3/4 inch thick, pin bones removed

4 slices streaky (fatty) bacon

 

Position an oven rack 4 to 5 inches from the broiling element; preheat the broiler. Have ready a broiler pan with a rack and 4 long metal skewers. Combine the mustard, dill, salt and pink peppercorns in a small bowl, mixing well. Spread in equal amounts on the top (rounded) sides of the salmon fillets, pressing the mixture down slightly into the fish. Lay a slice of bacon across each fillet (fold into a V shape, if using center-cut fillets) and tuck the ends neatly underneath. Thread a skewer through the center of each fillet to secure the edges of the bacon. Place the fillets bacon side down on the broiler pan and broil for 4 minutes, until the salmon looks opaque, then use a spatula to carefully turn them over (leaving the skewers in place) and broil for 3 to 4 minutes, until the bacon is crisp. Remove the skewers and serve immediately.

Emeril’s Sausage Pot

Emeril’s Sausage Pot

 

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 large onions, sliced

2 (1-inch thick and 5-inch long) bacon pieces, large diced

Salt

Freshly ground black pepper

1/2 cup Creole mustard

2 12-ounce bottles Turbo Dog beer

5 hot dogs

5 pounds assorted sausage

2 pounds sauerkraut

2 tablespoons chopped garlic

Cracklin’s 

Green onions

Creole seasoning

 

In a large pot, add olive oil. Add sliced onions and saute for 2 minutes. Add bacon. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, or until bacon begins to render and onions are beginning to caramelize. Add the Creole mustard and the beer. Stir. Add half of the sausage. Add the sauerkraut on top of the sausage. Add the rest of the sausage. Add the hot dogs and the garlic. Bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer, cover and cook for 45 minutes. Garnish with Cracklin’s green onions and Creole Seasoning.

Vietnamese Fried Rice

Vietnamese Fried Rice

Cook 1 1/2 c. brown rice or have 3-4 c. readymade. (yes, you could use white rice if you must)

Heat in a large skillet:

4T. cooking oil (I usually use olive oil.)

Add:

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 large onion, diced

1 t. salt

1/2 t. black pepper

1 t. sugar

1 1/2 T. soy sauce (I always use low sodium.)

OPTIONAL: Meat truly is optional in this recipe. I have cooked it with no meat, chicken, BBQ pork leftovers, and shrimp. All tasty. If you are adding raw meat, add about 1/4 to 1/2 lb. of meat with the above ingredients and cook along with the onions and the garlic, etc. If I am using leftover meat (which is most of the time), I throw it in after the onions are mostly cooked just to heat it up.

Stir-fry until meat is hot and/or onions are translucent.

Add:

Cooked rice. Stir and cook for about 5 minutes.

Add:

1 – 2 c. Veggies ( I add more if I am going meatless). Oh, you need something more specific? Honestly, this is never the same twice for me. I use whatever I have on hand. Occasionally I will buy fresh bean sprouts to throw in because I am really fond of them, but mostly – whatever I have. Peas, cut up green beans, corn, shredded carrot, broccoli . . . Stir into rice mixture and allow the veggies to cook to desired tenderness. Just before serving, add:

2 eggs, beaten

Over medium heat, stir the eggs carefully through the mixture until they are cooked.

Butternut Squash, Sausage and Bow Ties

Butternut Squash, Sausage and Bow Ties

 

6 oz. (2.5 cups) uncooked bow tie pasta (farfalle)

12 oz. pork breakfast sausage links, cut into 1-inch pieces

3 T. olive oil

1 med, butternut squash, peeled and cut into 1/2 inch pieces (4 cups)

1/2 c. sliced green onions

1 t. sugar

1/2 t. salt

1/2 t. dried marjoram leaves

1/4 t. dry mustard

 

Cook pasta to desired doneness as directed on package. Drain; cover to keep warm. Meanwhile, in 12-inch non-stick skillet, cook sausage as directed on package. Remove sausage and drippings from skillet; discard drippings. Add 2 T. of the oil to the same skillet. Heat over medium-low heat until hot. Add squash; cover and cook 10 minutes or until almost tender, stirring occasionally. Add onions; cover and cook 3-5 minutes or until squash is fork-tender, stirring occasionally.  Add cooked sausage, cooked pasta, sugar, salt, marjoram, mustard, and remaining 1 T. oil; mix well. Cook 3-5 minutes or until thoroughly heated, stirring occasionally.

Bacon Cheeseburger Wellingtons

Bacon Cheeseburger Wellingtons

1 lb. lean ground beef

1 T. au jus seasoning mix (from 1-oz. pkg.)

1 garlic clove, minced

1/4 t. pepper

2 (8 oz.) cans crescent rolls

8 t. dijon mustard (I used regular mustard)

4 slices bacon, cooked and halved

4 (1-oz.) slices Cheddar cheese

 

In large bowl, combine ground beef, seasoning mix, garlic, and pepper; mix well. Shape mixture into 4 patties, 1/2 inch thick. Heat large skillet over med. heat until hot. Add patties; cook 10-12 minutes or until thoroughly cooked, turning once. Remove patties from skillet; drain on paper towels. Cool 5 minutes. Heat oven to 375 degrees. Unroll dough forming 13×6.5 inch rectangle. Firmly press perforations to seal. Cut dough crosswise into 2 squares. Repeat with remaining can of dough, forming 4 squares. ( I just took 4 of the triangles and pressed them together to form a rectangle, then pressed them out a little to make it more square.) Spread each square with 2 t. mustard. Place one cooked patty, 2 half slices bacon, and 1 slice cheese in center of each square. Bring 4 corners of each dough square together in center; twist to from knot in center. Pinch edges to seal. Place on ungreased cookie sheet. Bake at 375 degrees for 17-23 minutes or until golden brown.  Consider browning hamburger as you would for spaghetti, adding the ingredients, and then using as a filling instead of making one large patty per person.

Meat Balls

Meat Balls

1 pound ground chuck

4 ounces dried bread crumbs

4 large eggs

4 ounces whole milk

6 ounces grated Romano

3 ounces grated Spanish onion

2 ounces finely diced fresh garlic

2 ounces finely chopped fresh Italian parsley leaves

2 ounces finely chopped fresh basil leaves

 

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Spray a baking sheet with olive oil cooking spray. Mix all ingredients thoroughly in large bowl. If mixture seems a little loose add more bread crumbs. Roll meatballs loosely about the size of a golf ball and place on baking sheet. Place into preheated oven for approximately 35 to 40 minutes.

Roasted Green and Wax Beans with Walnut Oil

Roasted Green and Wax Beans with Walnut Oil

 

½ lb green beans, trimmed

½ lb yellow wax beans, trimmed

3 Tbsp. walnut oil

Salt and black pepper

¼ cup coarsely chopped walnuts

 

Preheat oven to 350°F. Bring a medium saucepan of water to boil over high heat. Add beans. Return to a boil; cook for 2 minutes. Drain beans well; refresh by rinsing with cold water. Dry beans with a paper towel.  Place beans in 13×9-inch baking pan. Drizzle with walnut oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper; toss to coat. Add walnuts to pan. Roast for 8 to 10 minutes; or until tender and lightly browned in spots. Serve hot.

 

Yield: 6 servings

Calories: 120

Fat: 10g

Fiber: 2g

Paprika Shrimp & Green Bean Sauté

Paprika Shrimp & Green Bean Sauté

2 cups green beans, trimmed (about 6 ounces)
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons minced garlic
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 pound large shrimp (21-25 per pound), peeled and deveined
1 16-ounce can large butter beans or cannellini beans, rinsed
2 tablespoons sherry vinegar or red-wine vinegar
1⁄4 teaspoon salt
1⁄4 cup chopped parsley, divided
Freshly ground pepper to taste

Bring 1 inch of water to a boil in a large saucepan. Put green beans in a steamer basket, place in the pan, cover and steam until tender-crisp, 4 to 6 minutes.  Meanwhile, heat oil in a medium skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and paprika and cook, stirring constantly, until just fragrant but not browned, about 20 seconds. Add shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 2 minutes per side. Stir in butter beans (or cannellini), vinegar and salt; cook, stirring occasionally, until heated through, about 2 minutes. Stir in 2 tablespoons parsley.  Divide green beans among 2 plates. Top with the shrimp mixture. Sprinkle with pepper and the remaining 2 tablespoons parsley and serve.

 

Yield: 2 servings

Calories: 483

Fat: 18g

Fiber: 13g

Speedy Fajita Salad

Speedy Fajita Salad

1 tablespoon prepared taco seasoning

10 – 12 ounces cooked roast beef, thinly sliced

2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided

1/2 large red bell pepper, thinly sliced

4 cups chopped romaine lettuce

1 cup chopped beefsteak tomatoes

1/4 – 1/2 cup diced red onion

3 tablespoon fresh lime juice

1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro or Italian parsley leaves

1/4 cup shredded reduced-fat Monterey Jack cheese

 

In medium bowl, combine taco seasoning and beef slices, toss to coat.  Warm 1 teaspoon of the oil in large nonstick skillet over medium-low heat. Add pepper slices; cook 4 minutes, until softened and lightly charred, stirring often. Add beef slices, cook to warm through, stirring.  Chop lettuce, tomatoes, and onion; place in large serving bowl. Toss with remaining 2 teaspoons olive oil and lime juice. Top salad with warm beef/pepper mixture. Sprinkle with cheese and cilantro. Serve immediately with tortillas.

Deer Chili

Deer Chili

Deer Chili

 

2 dried ancho chiles, stemmed and seeded

2 tablespoons sunflower seed oil (or another neutral oil)

1 pound ground deer meat (venison), or other ground meat (see note here’

1 yellow onion, finely chopped

3 cloves of garlic, minced

1 cup diced tomatoes

1 cup beef or game broth

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon ground coriander

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

2 cups cooked beans of your choice (or canned, drained and rinsed)

1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)

Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish

Grated cheddar or cotija cheese, for garnish

Sliced jalapenos (optional), for garnish

Lime wedges, for garnish

 

Heat a medium dry skillet over medium heat, and add the dried ancho chiles. Toast them for 1 to 2 minutes, flipping them occasionally until they become fragrant. Be careful not to burn them. Soak the toasted chiles in hot water for 20 to 30 minutes to reduce the heat level. Drain them well and pat them dry with paper towels. Put the chiles and a pinch of salt in a small blender or food processor, and pulse until the chiles form a thick paste. Depending on the desired consistency, add a little water or oil to help the blending process, then set aside. Note: To make chile paste using a molcajete (the Mexican version of a mortar and pestle), grind the toasted and soaked chiles in the molcajete with a pinch of salt, which helps break down the chiles, until a thick paste forms. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the sunflower seed oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground deer meat, and cook until it’s browned and crumbled, 5 to 6 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove any excess fat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent, 4 to 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and the ancho chile paste, and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes to release the flavors. Add the diced tomatoes, beef broth, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, ground coriander, salt, and pepper. Mix well. Cover the pot, reduce the heat to low, and let the chili simmer for about 45 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Stir in the cooked beans and corn kernels. Continue to simmer for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, or until the chili is thickened and the deer meat is tender. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper, if needed. Serve the chili hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro, grated cheddar or cotija cheese, sliced jalapeños for extra heat, and lime wedges for a burst of fresh citrus flavor.

Outback Remoulade Sauce

Outback Remoulade Sauce

1 large egg yolk

3 T. Dijon or Creole style mustard

1/4 C. rice wine vinegar

1 T. Paprika

1 C. vegetable oil

2 T. grated horseradish, fresh or prepared (fresh is best)

1 tsp. garlic, chopped fine

1/3 C. scallions (I used shallots instead-better)

1/3 C. celery, chopped very fine

2 T. chopped parsley

2 T. catsup

2 T. mayonnaise

Salt, Sugar & Pepper to taste

Up to ½ C. Oil

 

Combine egg yolk, mustard, vinegar & paprika in bowl & whisk. Add the oil gradually. Whisk until all are combined then add the remaining ingredients & mix well.

Spicy Kielbasa Soup

Spicy Kielbasa Soup

1/2 pound reduced-fat smoked turkey kielbasa, sliced

1 medium onion, chopped

1 medium green pepper, chopped

1 celery ribs with leaves, thinly sliced

4 garlic cloves, minced

2 (14.5 ounce) cans reduced sodium chicken broth

1 (15.5 ounce) can great northern beans, rinsed and drained

1 (14.5 ounce) can stewed tomatoes, cut up

1 small zucchini, sliced

1 medium carrot, shredded

1 tablespoon dried parsley flakes

1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

1/4 teaspoon pepper

 

In a nonstick skillet, cook kielbasa over medium heat until lightly browned. Add the onion, green pepper, celery and garlic. Cook and stir for 5 minutes or until vegetable are tender. Transfer to a slow cooker. Stir in the remaining ingredients. Cover and cook on low for 8-9 hours.

Creamy Shrimp Chowder

Creamy Shrimp Chowder

 

3 green onions

2 medium potatoes

2 carrots

1 can (11oz.) of corn niblets, drained

1 can (10 oz.) cream of celery soup

1 can (10 oz.) cream of mushroom soup

2 cups water

1 bay leaf

1/2 tsp dried thyme

1/2 tbsp onion powder

1/8 tsp cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper

1 pound of medium shrimp, cleaned and peeled

1 cup milk

4 slices cooked bacon

 

Slice the green onions and carrots. Chop the potatoes into bite-size pieces. Place green onions, potatoes, carrots and corn in a Dutch oven or large pot. Add the soup, water, bay leaf, thyme, onion powder and cayenne pepper. Mix well. Allow to cook gently until potatoes are tender, about 25 minutes. Add the shrimp about 10 minutes before serving and heat the shrimp until they are cooked through. Add milk and remove the bay leaf. Place chowder in serving bowls and top with crumbled bacon.

Crock Pot Chicken Cordon Bleu

Crock Pot Chicken Cordon Bleu

6 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves

1 T. butter

3 T. flour

1/2 cup  milk

1/2 cup chicken broth

1/4 tsp, salt

1/4 tsp. black pepper

4 ounces sliced ham

4 ounces sliced Swiss cheese

1 (8 ounce) package herbed dry bread stuffing mix

1/4 cup butter, melted

 

Make a roux on the stovetop with butter and flour, and whisk in broth, milk and salt and pepper. Pour sauce into crockpot. Layer chicken breasts over the sauce, turning to coat. Cover with slices of ham and then Swiss cheese. Sprinkle the stuffing on top, and drizzle butter over stuffing. Cover, and cook on Low for 4 to 6 hours, or 2 to 3 hours on High. 

Five Spice Pork Medallions

Five Spice Pork Medallions

1 lb pork tenderloin, trimmed 

2 tsp. five spice powder 

1/4 tsp. kosher salt 

pinch of kosher salt 

4 tsp. light butter 

3 lg granny smith apples, cored and sliced in 1/2″ wedges 

1/2 C. dried cranberries 

 

Divide tenderloin into two same length pieces. Rub spice powder and 1/4 tsp. of the salt over all sides of each piece. In small skillet, melt 2 tsp. of the butter over medium high heat. Add tenderloin and brown on all sides, about 4 minutes. Cover and continue to cook, turning occasionally, until cooked through, about 12 minutes. Cool 5 minutes and then slice each piece into 6 medallions. Meanwhile, in heavy skillet over medium high heat, combine apples, cranberries, remaining 2 tsp. butter, and pinch of salt with 1/2 C. water. Cook, shaking pan occasionally, until liquid has almost evaporated and apples soften. Serve with pork medallions and steamed greens, such as kale.

 

Yield: 4 servings

Calories: 248

Fat: 7g

Fiber: 3g

Jewish Grandmother’s Chicken Soup

Jewish Grandmother’s Chicken Soup

Jewish Grandmother’s Chicken Soup

 

1 (4- or 5-pound) cut-up stewing hen or chicken

2 large onions, quartered

2 large celery ribs with leaves, quartered

2 large carrots, quartered

1 parsnip, quartered

1/2 C. parsley sprigs

1 bay leaf

I 1/2 tsp. salt

3/4 tsp. whole black peppercorns

 

In a large stockpot, place all ingredients and enough water to cover by 1 inch, about 4 quarts. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer, partially covered, 1 1/2 hours. Add additional water if needed to keep chicken and vegetables covered. Strain soup, reserving chicken but discarding vegetables and herbs. When chicken is cool enough to handle, pull meat off bones in chunks. Refrigerate broth for at least 1 hour, then spoon off congealed fat. To serve, reheat broth. Add chicken meat and simmer 2 minutes, or until heated through.

Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta

Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta

12 ounces uncooked dry pasta, like bucatini, spaghetti, linguine, or angel hair

6 thin-sliced boneless skinless chicken breasts

salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

3 tablespoons olive oil, divided

⅓ cup finely diced shallots

2 teaspoons minced garlic

1 cup dry white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Chardonnay

1 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth

¼ cup fresh lemon juice, from 1 large lemon, juiced

¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes, or to taste

2 tablespoons butter

¼ cup heavy cream

4 tablespoons chopped fresh basil, divided

½ cup finely shredded Parmesan cheese

 

If necessary, cover chicken breasts with plastic wrap and use a mallet to lightly pound them until ½-inch thick. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Cook pasta according to package directions. Meanwhile, add olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet and place over MEDIUM-HIGH. When oil is good and hot add the chicken and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, until nicely browned. Chicken does not need to be cooked through at this point. Transfer the browned chicken to a plate or large piece of foil to rest. Do this in batches, if necessary, to avoid over-crowding the skillet. Reduce the heat to MEDIUM, add the shallots and garlic to the skillet. Cook, stirring, for a minute or two. Add the white wine and use a spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet as the wine comes to a simmer. Allow wine to simmer at a low boil for 3 to 4 minutes until slightly reduced. Add the chicken broth, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes. Increase heat to MEDIUM-HIGH and bring sauce to a low boil. Allow to simmer for about 10 to 15 minutes until thickened and reduced. Remove the skillet from the heat and add the butter and stir until completely melted. Add the heavy cream and stir to combine. Transfer the browned chicken to the skillet and drizzle the sauce over the top. Transfer the skillet in the oven for 8 to 10 minutes or until the chicken is completely cooked through. Remove from oven and top with 2 tablespoons chopped basil. Drain pasta, reserving ½ cup pasta water. Place pasta in a large bowl and add cheese and remaining basil and toss to combine, adding enough reserved pasta water to moisten pasta. Serve with chicken and and spoonful of sauce.

The Lemon Marinade for Fresh Mozzarella

The Lemon Marinade for Fresh Mozzarella

1 1/2 cups extra-virgin olive oil

1-2 inch x 1- inch strip of lemon peel (yellow part only)

1 garlic clove, minced

1 fresh bay leaf

1 sprig fresh rosemary

1 sprig fresh thyme

1 sprig fresh oregano

1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 pound mozzarella bocconcini or ciliegini, drained

In a small saucepan over low heat, warm the olive oil. Add the lemon peel, garlic, bay leaf, rosemary, thyme, oregano, crushed red pepper and salt and let steep for 3 to 5 minutes over low heat. Remove from heat and allow to completely cool. When cool, pour over the bocconcini and allow to marinate for 2 to 4 hours and up to 1 week before serving.

Fairy Good Quiche

Fairy Good Quiche

Refrigerated pie crust (or pop-tube crescent rolls)
1/2 cup grated cheese
2 eggs
2 Tbsp cream
Salt and Pepper to taste
(4-6 grape/cherry tomatoes – optional)

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Generously spray a minimuffin tin with non-stick spray. Make sure to spray the area connecting each cup together along with the cups themselves. Cut a 2-3 inch flower shape out of the piecrust. (If using the crescent roll option you will need to form a square out of each triangle and pat out slightly before cutting.) Place each flower into a muffin cup, push the center in and against the walls of the pan, and then flatten the petals around the edge of the cup. Place approx 1 tsp grated cheese into the bottom of each shell. In a bowl, combine eggs, salt, pepper and cream. Pour into pastry shell filling almost to the top. (I find using a gravy ladle makes it really easy to fill the cups.) Sprinkle with 1 tsp of grated cheese and bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and slightly puffed. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes before removing from pan. Garnish top with grape/cherry tomato slice or leave plain. Makes 10-12 bite size quiches.

Chinese Beef and Rice

Chinese Beef and Rice

 

1 3/4″-thick sirloin or top round steak (8 ounces), thinly sliced 

2 tablespoons reduced-sodium soy sauce, divided 

2 teaspoons canola oil 

1 bag (14 ounces) frozen stir-fry or asian vegetable mix 

1 pouch (10 ounces) frozen brown rice 

1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh ginger 

2 teaspoons minced garlic 

1/2 cup diagonally sliced scallions 

1/4 cup coarsely chopped dry-roasted peanuts 

 

In a bowl, toss the meat with 1 tablespoon of the soy sauce. Set a wok or large skillet over high heat for 1 minute. Add the oil. Place the meat in a single layer in the pan. Cook, without stirring, for about 1 minute, or until browned on the bottom. Stir. Cook 1 minute, stirring once or twice, until all pink is gone. With a slotted spoon or tongs, transfer the meat to a dish and set aside. Add the vegetables to the pan. Stir-fry over medium heat about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. Meanwhile, cook the rice per package directions. Add the ginger and garlic to the pan. Stir-fry for 30 seconds. Add the reserved meat, rice, scallions, peanuts, and the remaining 1 tablespoon soy sauce. Stir-fry until heated through.

 

Yield: 4 servings

Calories: 270

Fat: 11g

Fiber: 5g

Steak Burgers

Steak Burgers

1 1/2 lb 96% lean ground beef 

6 whole grain hamburger buns, sliced 

6 1/2 oz slices reduced fat swiss cheese 

6 red or green leaf lettuce leaves 

6 1/4″ thick tomato slices 

6 1/8″ thick red onion slices 

6 tbsp chopped parsley 

1/4 C steak sauce 

 

 

Preheat indoor or outdoor grill to highest heat setting. Divide beef and shape into six patties slightly larger in diameter than buns (try not to overhandle or meat will toughen). Season both sides of patties with salt and freshly ground black pepper and place on grill. Cook 2 to 4 minutes per side until they reach desired doneness. Meanwhile, place buns on grill to toast, about 1 minute. Add 1 slice cheese to each patty to melt just before the burgers are done. Assemble burgers by placing lettuce on bottom half of each bun followed by tomato, burger, and onion. Sprinkle with parsley. Add 2 teaspoons of sauce to each burger and top with bun.

 

Yield: 6 servings

Calories: 321

Fat: 10g

Fiber: 4g

Dijon Pepper Steak

Dijon Pepper Steak

2 tablespoons cracked or coarsely ground mixed peppercorns 

1/4 teaspoon salt 

4 center-cut filet mignon steaks (6 ounces each), about 1 1/4″ thick 

1 teaspoon canola oil 

1/4 cup beef broth 

3 tablespoons red wine or 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar 

2 teaspoons dijon mustard 

 

Sprinkle the peppercorns and salt on both sides of the steaks and press in. Coat a large heavy skillet with vegetable oil spray. Place over high heat for 1 minute. Add the oil. When the oil is hot, reduce the heat to medium-high and place the steaks in the pan. Cook for 5 minutes per side, or until a thermometer inserted sideways in the center registers 145°F for medium-rare; 6 minutes for medium (160°F); or 7 minutes for well done (165°F). Remove the steaks to a large plate. Set aside. Add the broth and wine or vinegar to the skillet. Simmer for 30 seconds. Stir in the mustard. Spoon the sauce over the steaks.

 

Yield: 4 servings

Calories: 300

Fat: 15g

Fiber: 0g

Mexican Stuffed Peppers

Mexican Stuffed Peppers

2 cans (14 1/2 ounces each) no-salt-added diced tomatoes 

1 tablespoon red wine vinegar 

1 teaspoon ground cumin 

1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon 

1/2 teaspoon salt 

4 1/2 large bell peppers (preferably yellow and orange) 

8 ounces 95 percent lean ground beef 

1/2 cup converted brown rice 

1/3 cup finely chopped onion 

1/4 cup raisins 

chopped parsley (for garnish) 

 

In a medium bowl, combine the tomatoes (with juice), vinegar, cumin, cinnamon, and salt. Stir to mix. Pour 1 1/3 cups of the sauce mixture into a 4-quart or larger slow cooker. Finely chop the half bell pepper. Slice off the top 1/2″ of the remaining peppers. Seed the peppers and reserve the tops. In a large bowl, using your hands, combine the beef, rice, onion, raisins, chopped pepper, and the remaining sauce mixture. Spoon the mixture into the peppers and replace the tops. Place into the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or until the peppers are tender and the meat is no longer pink. Serve topped with the cooking sauce. Garnish with parsley, if desired.

 

Yield: 4 servings

Calories: 240

Fat: 4g

Fiber: 6g

Kidney Beans and Beef Chili

Kidney Beans and Beef Chili

 

6 ounces lean beef top round, cut into chunks 

1/2 cup chopped onion 

1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper 

1 tablespoon olive or canola oil 

1 tablespoon minced garlic 

1 1/2 teaspoons chili powder 

1 teaspoon ground cumin 

1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper 

1/4 teaspoon salt 

1 3/4 cups cooked red kidney beans or 1 can (15 ounces) red kidney beans, rinsed and drained 

1 cup crushed tomatoes 

1 cup chicken broth 

4 teaspoons sour cream 

4 teaspoons grated extra-sharp cheddar cheese 

1 jalapeno chile pepper, minced (optional) (wear plastic gloves when handling) 

fresh cilantro leaves (optional) 

 

In the bowl of a food processor fitted with a metal blade, pulse the beef for about 1 minute, or until coarsely ground. Set aside. In a large pot, combine the onion, bell pepper, oil, garlic, chili powder, cumin, black pepper, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes, or until softened. Crumble the beef into the pot. Increase the heat to medium-high and cook, stirring, for 2 minutes, or until the beef is no longer pink. Stir in the beans, tomatoes, and broth. Reduce the heat to medium-low. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 30 minutes, or until the flavors are well blended. Serve in shallow bowls. Dollop on the sour cream and sprinkle on the cheese. Garnish with chile pepper and cilantro, if using.

 

Yield: 4 servings

Calories: 260

Fat: 9g

Fiber: 9g

Thai Red Curry

Thai Red Curry

 

1 can (16 oz.) coconut milk

1 heaping teaspoon curry paste

1 can (10 oz.) bamboo shoots, drained

1 medium zucchini, sliced into half moons

2 cups broccoli florets

1/2 cup shredded carrot

1/2 cup pineapple

1 cup cooked chicken, diced

1 T fish sauce or soy sauce

1 t brown sugar

 

In a large saute pan, pour the coconut milk.  Heat to boiling and mix in the curry paste.  Stir to dissolve the curry paste.  Add the bamboo shoots and bring to a boil, let boil for about 5 minutes to thicken the coconut milk.  Add the vegetables, starting with the one that takes the longest to cook.  When vegetables are getting tender, but still firm about 8-10 minutes, add the cooked chicken and pineapple.  Stir in the fish sauce and brown sugar (both to taste), and mix to incorporate all of the ingredients.  Serve with steamed rice.

Salmon Turnovers

Salmon Turnovers

 

2 (6 oz) cans boneless salmon

6 oz cream cheese

1 bunch green onion chopped

1 celery stalk chopped

2 tubes crescent rolls

Leave out cream cheese to soften

 

Cook onions and celery in about a tablespoon of butter on the stove top for 3 to 5 minutes. Drain the salmon and put in a mixing bowl. Mix together cooked onions, celery, cream cheese and salmon (drained). Take the crescent rolls and put two together to make a square. Put a scoop (about 1/3 cup) of the mixture in the center of the square, then fold up the corners towards the center. Bake for about 10 to 15 minutes in a 375 degree oven. This a great recipe for a quick meal. It takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, and is easy enough for a kid to make.

Quick Crescent Taco Bake

Quick Crescent Taco Bake

1 lb. ground beef

1 pkg. taco seasoning

1/2 c. water

1/2 c. salsa

1 can refrigerated crescent rolls

1 1/2 c. crushed corn chips

1 c. sour cream

1 c. shredded cheddar cheese

lettuce

tomatoes

extra cheese

 

Brown meat and drain.  Add seasoning mix, water and salsa.  Simmer for 5 minutes. Spread crescent roll dough in 10 inch pie plate or 8×10 inch dish to form crust.  Seal edges. Sprinkle 1 c. chips over crust. Layer meat mixture, sour cream and cheese on top of crust. Sprinkle with remaining corn chips. Bake at 375° for 20 minutes or until crust is golden brown. Serve with lettuce, tomatoes, and more cheese.

Baked Fennel

Baked Fennel

Baked Fennel

 

3 fennel bulbs

1 tsp. softened butter

Coarse salt and ground pepper

1/3 C. grated Parmesan

4 sprigs thyme

 

Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Boil 3 fennel bulbs, trimmed and split lengthwise, until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain fennel, cut side down, on paper towels, 5 minutes. Place fennel, cut side up, in a buttered 8-inch square baking dish and brush with 1 tsp. softened butter. Season with coarse salt and ground pepper and top with 1/3 C. grated Parmesan and 4 sprigs thyme. Bake until cheese is golden brown, about 20 minutes.