Danish Rice Pudding with Cherry Black Pepper Sauce

Danish Rice Pudding with Cherry Black Pepper Sauce

Danish Rice Pudding with Cherry Black Pepper Sauce

 

1 cup (185 grams) short-grain white rice, such as Arborio

3 cups (710 ml) water

1 1//2 cups (355 ml) milk

1 vanilla bean, split

A pinch of salt

1 cup (140 grams) chopped almonds, toasted (well chopped but not powdery)

1 whole skinned almond

 

24 ounces sour cherries (about 5 cups or 680 grams), pitted (frozen are fine)

1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons (125 grams total) granulated sugar

2 tablespoons (15 grams) cornstarch

1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons (150 ml total) water

A few grinds of black pepper

 

2 cups (475 ml) heavy cream

2 tablespoons (25 grams) granulated sugar

 

Bring the rice, water, milk, and vanilla bean to a simmer, then cook at a low simmer, stirring frequently, until the rice is very tender, and the mixture is thick but loose, like a risotto, another 20 to 25 minutes. A spoon dragged across the bottom will clear a brief path in the rice. Remove the vanilla-bean pod and save it for another use, such as infusing vanilla sugar. Cool the mixture completely and press a piece of plastic film against the surface so no skin is formed. Chill it in the fridge for several hours—ideally, overnight. make the cherry sauce Place the cherries and sugar in a medium saucepan. Stir the cornstarch and 2 tablespoons of the water together until smooth, then pour this into the pan, along with the remaining V2 cup water and a few grinds of black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, and, stirring frequently, cook for 2 to 3 minutes. Let rest for 5 minutes (the sauce should be served hot). finish and serve Shortly before serving the pudding, whip the cream with the sugar to soft peaks. Fold the whipped cream, along with the chopped almonds and one whole almond, into the cold rice. It will be stiff at first but will eventually lighten and become fluffy. Serve in big scoops, and ladle with warmed cherry sauce.

Sweet Lemon Vinaigrette

Sweet Lemon Vinaigrette

Sweet Lemon Vinaigrette

 

2 medium cloves Garlic, peeled and crushed

Juice from 1 Meyer Lemon, about ½ cup

1 tablespoon grainy Dijon Mustard

1 tablespoons fruity Olive Oil

1 tablespoon dried Oregano

 

In a large bowl, whisk together all vinaigrette ingredients, set aside.

Cacio e Pepe Potatoes Anna

Cacio e Pepe Potatoes Anna

Cacio e Pepe Potatoes Anna

 

1/2 cup (65 grams) finely grated aged Pecorino Romano

1 tablespoon (10 grams) potato starch or cornstarch

1/2 teaspoon fine sea or table salt, or to taste

1/2 teaspoon finely ground black pepper, or a larger amount coarsely ground

3 tablespoons (45 grams) unsalted butter, melted, or olive oil

2 pounds (roughly 1 kg) Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled, cut into 1/8-inch-thick, ideally on a mandolin

 

8 cups (5 2/3 ounces or 160 grams) loosely packed arugula

1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil

2 teaspoons (10 ml) white wine vinegar

 

Assemble the potatoes: Heat your oven to 375°F. Combine the cheese, potato starch or cornstarch, salt, and pepper in a small dish. Taste a pinch; you want it to have a strong salty-peppery kick, because it’s going to be distributed all over the galette.  Pour 1 tablespoon butter or oil into the bottom of a 9-inch-diameter cast-iron or ovenproof skillet, and swirl it up the sides. Arrange the potatoes in overlapping concentric circles in a single layer at the bottom of the pan. (This will use approximately a quarter of your sliced potatoes.) Drizzle with 1 teaspoon butter or oil, and sprinkle with 2 tablespoons of the cheese-pepper mixture. You’ll need to repeat this three or four times to use up your potatoes (depending on their size). At the end, you should have about 1 tablespoon cheese-pepper mixture left over; reserve this. Drizzle any remaining melted butter over the top. To bake: Lightly coat a piece of foil with nonstick spray and cover the skillet tightly with it. Put in heated oven for 35 minutes, at which point the potatoes will be almost tender. Use pot holdered hands to press firmly on the foil to compact the potatoes a bit. Remove and reserve the foil and bake for 25 to 30 minutes more, until lightly brown all over. Press again with the foil, remove, then briefly run under the broiler for an even golden-brown finish. To finish and serve: While the galette bakes, toss the arugula with the olive oil and vinegar, keeping the dressing very light. Once the galette is out of the oven, let it rest in the skillet for a few minutes before running a knife around to ensure that it is loose. Gently tip the skillet over your sink to drain any excess butter or oil. Invert it onto a plate or cutting board, then flip right side up. Cut the galette into wedges, then top with the dressed greens, and sprinkle with the reserved cheese-pepper mixture. Do ahead: This galette can be made up to 3 days in advance. Rewarm at 350 degrees for 15 minutes with foil on top.

Sheet Pan Halloumi with Burst Tomatoes, Summer Squash, Preserved Lemon, and Mint

Sheet Pan Halloumi with Burst Tomatoes, Summer Squash, Preserved Lemon, and Mint

Sheet Pan Halloumi with Burst Tomatoes, Summer Squash, Preserved Lemon, and Mint

 

1 (about 8.8-ounce) package halloumi

1 pound summer squash (about 2 medium)

1/2 medium red onion

4 cloves garlic

1 preserved lemon

1 pint grape or cherry tomatoes (about 11 ounces)

2 tablespoons olive oil

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

8 sprigs fresh mint

 

Arrange a rack in the middle of the oven and heat the oven to 425ºF.  Prepare the following, adding each to the same rimmed baking sheet as it is completed: Pat 1 (about 8.8-ounce) package halloumi dry with paper towels and cut into 1-inch cubes. Trim 1 pound summer squash, halve lengthwise, and cut crosswise into 1/2-inch pieces. Cut 1/2 medium red onion into 1-inch chunks. Smash and peel 4 garlic cloves. Pull away the flesh from 1 preserved lemon and discard. Rinse the skin well and thinly slice.

Add 1 pint grape or cherry tomatoes to the baking sheet. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons olive oil, season with 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes. Toss to coat and spread out in a single layer.  Roast, tossing halfway through, until the halloumi is softened and browned in spots and the vegetables are tender, 25 to 30 minutes. Meanwhile, pick the leaves from 8 fresh mint sprigs and finely chop (about 2 tablespoons).  Let the halloumi and vegetables cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle with the mint and gently toss to combine.

Manhattan-Style Clams with Fregola

Manhattan-Style Clams with Fregola

 

4 ounces (115 g) thick-cut bacon, diced

1/2 large Spanish onion, diced

1/2 large green bell pepper, diced

2 medium celery stalks, diced

2 garlic cloves, minced

1/2 tsp dried oregano leaves

28-ounce can whole peeled tomatoes, in juice

1 cup (125 mL) chicken stock, or seafood stock

salt

hot pepper flakes, to taste

1/2 cup (90 g) fregola Pasta, dried

24 (1-2 kg) littleneck clams, rinsed

freshly ground black pepper, to taste

1/4 cup fresh parsley, roughly chopped

 

Scatter the bacon in the bottom of a medium-sized Dutch oven or a deep 4-quart sauté pan and set over medium heat. Let the bacon warm and sizzle in place; then, when it begins to brown, stir it around, continuing until it is browned and the fat has rendered out, about 5 minutes. If there is extra, discard all but 1 tablespoon of the bacon drippings and add the onion, bell pepper, and celery. Cook, stirring, until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 1 more minute; then stir in the oregano, tomatoes (with juices), and broth, scraping up any stuck bits, and bring to a simmer. Season with salt and red pepper flakes. Stir in the fregola, and simmer, covered, for 10 minutes. Stop here if you are prepping the soup ahead of time. If serving immediately, stir in the clams and simmer, covered, stirring occasionally, until the clams open wide, 8 to 10 minutes. (Discard any clams that have not opened after 10 minutes.)

Season with salt and black pepper and add the parsley.

Cauliflower Wedge

Cauliflower Wedge

Cauliflower Wedge

 

2 small, compact-looking heads cauliflower (1  1/4 to 1  1/2 pounds each)

3 Tablespoons (45 ml) olive oil, plus more for frying capers

Coarse or kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

1/3 cup (35 grams) finely grated Parmesan

Juice of 1/2 lemon

1 1/2 tablespoons (25 ml) white wine vinegar

2 tablespoons (20 grams) currants

2 tablespoons (25 grams) capers, brined variety

1 scallion, thinly sliced

1 tablespoon chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley

 

Heat the oven to 450 degrees. Trim the outer leaves from the cauliflower, then slice the heads in quarters through the stem. Coat a large foil-lined baking sheet with 1 to 2 tablespoons olive oil. Arrange the cauliflower wedges with the cut side down. Drizzle another tablespoon of olive oil over the top of the cauliflower. Season it generously with salt and pepper. Roast on one cut side until nicely browned underneath (15 to 20 minutes), then flip each piece onto its other cut side, sprinkle with more salt and pepper and half of the Parmesan (don’t worry if some lands on the tray) and return to the oven to roast for another 10 minutes, until browned. Sprinkle with the remaining Parmesan and return the baking tray to the oven for another 3 to 5 minutes, until the top layer of cheese is fricoed.  While the cauliflower is roasting, place the lemon juice, vinegar, and V4 teaspoon salt in a small bowl. Add the currants; set aside and let them soak while you prepare the other ingredients.  Drain the capers and spread them on paper towels until most of their moisture has wicked out, about 5 minutes. Pour 1/2 inch of olive oil, or another oil that you prefer to fry in, in your tiniest skillet or saucepan. Heat it over medium-high heat. When it’s hot enough so a droplet of water makes the oil hiss, carefully add the capers and take a step back! They’re going to sputter a bit for the first 10 seconds. Once it’s safe to get closer, give them a stir. Depending on how dry the capers were at the start, it can take 1 to 2 minutes for them to get first lightly golden at the edges, and then crispy. Remove the capers from the oil with a slotted spoon. Drain them on paper towels, and set aside. Arrange the cauliflower wedges, any loose cauliflower rubble, and any fricoed bits of Parmesan from the roasting pan on a platter. Sprinkle with the scallions, then the currants with their lemon-vinegar mixture, then the capers and parsley. Eat with a fork and knife while standing at the kitchen counter, and order takeout for your family; I won’t tell if you don’t.

Baked Rigatoni with Fresh Tomato Sauce

Baked Rigatoni with Fresh Tomato Sauce

Baked Rigatoni with Fresh Tomato Sauce

 

9 medium (1 kg) roma tomatoes

½ small (60 g) small onion, peeled

1½ small (125 g) carrots, peeled, halved

3 Tablespoons (45 g) tomato paste

1 small garlic clove, peeled

¾ teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice

1 teaspoon brown sugar

½ teaspoon salt, optional

1 pound (454 g) pasta, rigatoni or ziti, dried

2 cups (225 g) Mozzarella cheese, shredded, or provolone

 

Preheat oven to 450 degrees F. Place tomatoes, onions, carrots, tomato paste, garlic, oregano, basil, fresh lemon juice, brown sugar, and salt, optional into the Vitamix container in the order listed and secure lid. Select Hot Soup program. Start the machine and slowly increase to its highest speed. Allow to complete programmed cycle (5:45). While the sauce is blending, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain. Transfer pasta to a 9 inch x 12 inch prepared baking dish. Top with 4 cups (960 ml) warm tomato sauce and 2 cups of shredded cheese. Bake for 5 to 10 minutes until cheese is melted.

Baked Oatmeal with Caramelized Pears and Vanilla Cream

Baked Oatmeal with Caramelized Pears and Vanilla Cream

Baked Oatmeal with Caramelized Pears and Vanilla Cream

 

Vanilla Sugar

1/2 C. + 2 T. sugar

1/2 vanilla bean

 

Pears:

3 pears (Anjou, Bartletts or Forelle), peeled, cored, and sliced in half

2 T. butter

1 lemon

 

Vanilla Cream:

1 C. heavy cream

2 T. prepared vanilla sugar

Vanilla Pod

 

Oatmeal:

1 C. milk

1 C. water

2 T. melted butter

2 large eggs

1 1/2 tsp kosher salt

2 tsp. baking powder

3 C. rolled oats

(lemon zest)

 

To finish

1 C. Heavy Cream or half and Half

 

Place the sugar in a small bowl. Split the vanilla bean, scrape the seeds into the sugar, and use your fingertips to distribute the seeds throughout; the abrasion helps release more flavor. Save the pod: there’s tons more flavor to be had, and we’re going to use it. Heat the oven to 400 degrees. While it’s heating, place butter in a 9-by-l 3-inch or equivalent-sized baking dish in the oven to let it melt. Finely grate the zest of half of your lemon and set it aside; you’ll use it later. Juice the whole lemon, you’ll use it now. Peel the pears, split them lengthwise, and remove cores and any thick-looking stems. Toss the pears with the lemon juice. Remove the baking dish with melted butter from the oven, and sprinkle 1/2 cup vanilla sugar into it. Arrange the pears, cut side down, over the sugar, and drizzle with any lemon juice left in bowl. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then remove foil and bake another 10 minutes. While pears are baking, whisk the milk, water, butter, eggs, salt, and reserved zest together in a large bowl. Sprinkle the baking powder over these and stir to combine; add oats and stir again. Use a thin spatula to turn the pears over carefully, spooning as much sauce from the pan over the pears as they will hold. Reduce heat to 350 degrees. Dollop the oat mixture around the pears in the pan. Return the dish to the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the pears are soft and the oatmeal edges are golden brown. Meanwhile, make vanilla cream. Bring the cream, remaining 2 tablespoons vanilla sugar, and reserved empty vanilla bean pod to a simmer in a saucepan. Simmer 5 minutes, reducing to 3/4 cup. Chill the mixture if you prefer cold cream on your hot oatmeal (i.e., if you’re me). Scoop one pear half and its surrounding oatmeal into a bowl, and drizzle with 1 to 2 tablespoons vanilla cream. Refrigerate leftovers until needed, up to one week, warming one portion at a time.

Confiture d’Olives et Citron (Sweet Olive Jam with Lemon)

Confiture d’Olives et Citron (Sweet Olive Jam with Lemon)

Confiture d’Olives et Citron (Sweet Olive Jam with Lemon)

 

Note that while you don’t have to break the bank on olives, they should be of reasonably good quality to make a full-flavored jam (i.e. no canned California olives!). Your best bet is probably going to be a Mediterranean or Middle Eastern shop that sells olives in bulk.

 

2 cups (ca. 300g) drained and pitted Kalamata olives (packed)

1 cup (ca. 150g) drained and pitted high-quality green olives (packed)

1 1/3 cup (270g) sugar

1 1/3 cup (325ml) water

1 medium organic lemon

1 large green apple, peeled, cored and diced

1/3 cup (80ml) mild honey

 

Put all the olives in a large saucepan and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and boil for one minute. Drain completely. Repeat this process two more times – this should take enough salt out of the olives so that they’re only mildly salty. Set the olives aside and rinse out the saucepan. Add the sugar and 1 1/3 cups water to the saucepan and swirl to combine. Cut a couple of strips of zest from the lemon and drop them in the sugar water. Slice the lemon up very thinly (don’t worry about the seeds), and add the slices to the pan as well. Bring this to a simmer over medium heat and let it cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until it’s reduced to about a cup of liquid. Pour this through a strainer into a bowl, pressing on the lemon solids to extract as much liquid as possible. Return the liquid to the pan, adding the diced apple, honey and olives. Bring to a simmer once again and cook, stirring occasionally, just until the apples are soft and everything is very thick – about another 10 to 15 minutes (you can add a bit of water if it seems to be getting too thick). Remove from the heat and let cool slightly. With an immersion blender or a normal blender, process the entire mixture until it is velvety-smooth. It should be quite a jammy consistency already; if it’s runny you can continue to cook it a little bit more, but keep in mind it will thicken as it cools. Transfer to jars and refrigerate. I haven’t tested how long this keeps, but mine is a week and a half old and still going strong. Of course you can also sterilize a couple of small canning jars and can them for shelf storage.

 

And how to use this miraculous substance? I love this jam with cheese, particularly with hard pungent cheeses like Manchego or Pecorino or an aged farmhouse cheddar. In Scotland nice restaurants will often serve a cheese selection with oat biscuits and a homemade chutney – it would be perfect for that. I’ve also fallen in love with it on sandwiches with Italian dry salami and Emmenthal or Gruyere cheese and a bit of peppery arugula.

Roasted Chestnut and Hazelnut Soup

Roasted Chestnut and Hazelnut Soup

Roasted Chestnut and Hazelnut Soup

Note: Always puncture the shells of chestnuts before cooking to prevent explosion(!). To do this carve an X into the bottom end of the shell with a paring knife, taking care not to puncture the nut inside. To roast chestnuts over a fire, place the scored nuts in a foil pie tin punched with holes, sprinkle with water, and place directly on hot coals. Shake a few times during the roasting to prevent charring. When a fire is not roaring and ready for nuts, any oven will work. Roast the nuts at 375 degrees for 20 minutes or so, until the scored corners of the skin curl back, and peel while still hot. Alternatively, to boil place the scored nuts in a saucepan and cover with either milk or cold water. Bring to a boil and simmer for 15 to 25 minutes, then peel.

1/2 lb peeled chestnuts (roasted, boiled or pre-packaged), roughly chopped

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

1/3 cup bacon or pancetta, diced

1 large yellow onion, chopped

5 ribs celery, chopped

2 carrots, peeled and chopped

2 cloves garlic, chopped

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 cup dry white wine

6 cups rich chicken stock

1 cup hazelnuts, toasted, skinned and coarsely chopped

1 cup heavy cream

3 tablespoons Frangelico (optional)

salt and pepper, to taste

 

Melt the butter in a large stock pot over medium heat. Add the bacon or pancetta, onion, celery, carrots, garlic and thyme. Sauté until the vegetables begin to soften, about 10 minutes. Add the wine and stock, and stir in the chopped chestnuts. Heat to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat and simmer uncovered 45 minutes, or until everything is soft and the flavors have blended.  Remove the soup from the heat and stir in the hazelnuts, cream and Frangelico. Puree the soup in batches in a blender or in the pot with an immersion blender until it’s as smooth as you can get it. Pour into a clean pot, taste and adjust seasonings, and rewarm gently. Ladle the soup into small bowls and garnish with a dollop of crème fraîche.

Green Lentil Soup with Coconut Milk and Warm Spices

Green Lentil Soup with Coconut Milk and Warm Spices

Green Lentil Soup with Coconut Milk and Warm Spices

 

1 1/2 cups (275g) French green lentils (brown lentils work in a pinch)

6 cups (1.5l) vegetable or chicken stock

1 bushy sprig fresh thyme

1 1/2 teaspoons turmeric

3 tablespoons butter, vegetable or coconut oil

1 large onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced or pressed

1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom

1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

a pinch of freshly-ground nutmeg

1 cup (250ml) coconut milk, or to taste

a few handfuls (~7oz/200g) fresh spinach, chard or kale, washed, tough stems discarded and cut into ribbons (optional)

salt and freshly-ground black pepper, to taste

 

Rinse the lentils and pick out any debris. Combine them in a pot with the stock, thyme and tumeric and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat slightly and simmer until the lentils are soft, about 20 minutes. Fish out the thyme.  While the lentils are cooking, heat the butter or oil in a smallish skillet and sauté the onion over medium heat, stirring frequently, until browned and caramelized in places, about 12-15 minutes. Add the garlic and spices and fry just until deeply aromatic, about 30 seconds. Scrape the contents of the skillet into the pot with the lentils, and add the coconut milk and optional greens too. Bring everything back to a gentle boil and cook another 10 minutes, or until the flavors have blended and the greens are tender. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Peach and Lemongrass Butter

Peach and Lemongrass Butter

Peach and Lemongrass Butter

 

about 2 lbs (1 kg) ripe, fragrant white or yellow peaches

1 cup (200g) sugar, or to taste

4 fat stalks lemongrass, roughly chopped

2 tablespoons lemon juice, or to taste

 

Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Blanch the peaches by submerging them (in batches, if necessary) for 1 minute and then transferring them to a bowl of ice water. When cool, peel, pit and slice them. Combine them with the sugar in a large bowl and let macerate at room temperature for a couple of hours, during which time the peaches should give up a lot of juice. Strain the peaches, reserving the juice. Place the juice, the sliced lemongrass and 1 cup water in a heavy-bottomed pot and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat slightly and let simmer until you have a thick, fragrant syrup, about 30 minutes. Strain the syrup, discarding the lemongrass. Return the syrup to the pot and stir in the peaches. Simmer over medium-low heat until the peaches are completely soft, about 20-25 minutes. Remove from the heat and puree, either in a blender or with an immersion (stick) blender. Return to the pot and stir in the lemon juice. Cook over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching, until the puree thickens to the consistency of applesauce, about half an hour. Taste the mixture and add more sugar or lemon juice as desired. Remove from the heat and transfer to a closed container (or, if you’re comfortable with canning, fill into jars and process in your normal way). If not canning, refrigerate immediately and consume within a couple of weeks.

Baked Apples with Spices, Olive Oil and Nuts

Baked Apples with Spices, Olive Oil and Nuts

Baked Apples with Spices, Olive Oil and Nuts

 

4 tablespoons dried cranberries, finely chopped

4 tablespoons shelled unsalted pistachios, finely chopped

4 tablespoons slivered almonds, finely chopped

1 cup (250ml) fresh apple juice

Finely-grated zest and juice of one organic lemon

1 vanilla bean, split and seeds scraped out

4 crisp, flavorful apples, e.g. Reinette, Pink Lady, Cortland, Winesap or Liberty

4 cinnamon sticks

4 tablespoons olive oil

2 tablespoons turbinado (raw) sugar

 

In a small bowl, combine the cranberries, pistachios and almonds; set aside. In a pot, combine the apple juice, lemon zest, vanilla bean and seeds. Bring to a boil, then remove from the heat. Cover and leave to infuse for 30 minutes. Preheat the oven to 350F(175C). Core the apples, then slice the top off each one (set these aside) and drizzle with lemon juice. Place the apples in a baking dish and divide the stuffing mix among them. Place a cinnamon stick in each apple and cover them with their tops. Pour the infused juice and the oil over the apples and sprinkle with sugar. Place the apples in the oven and bake for 1 hour, or until the flesh is tender, regularly drizzling with the cooking juices. Remove from the oven and serve warm with the juices and plain yogurt on the side.

Beet and Avocado Tartine with Perfect Instant Pot Beets

Beet and Avocado Tartine with Perfect Instant Pot Beets

Beet and Avocado Tartine with Perfect Instant Pot Beets

 

3 to 4 medium-sized beets, see notes

 

3 to 4 cooked beets, skins removed

flaky sea salt, like Maldon, or kosher salt

white balsamic vinegar

1 to 2 ripe avocados

squeeze of lemon

4 slices quinoa-flax bread or other seedy bread

handful or arugula or pea shoots or micro greens

drizzle olive oil

 

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

Orange Teriyaki Beef Noodle Bowl

Orange Teriyaki Beef Noodle Bowl

Orange Teriyaki Beef Noodle Bowl

 

1 lb. thin cut round steak, thinly sliced

16 oz pkg frozen vegetables, stir-fry mix

2.5 cups beef broth

1/4 cup teriyaki sauce

2 T orange marmalade

1 T soy sauce

3 cups uncooked angel hair pasta, broken into 2-inch pieces

 

Spray a large nonstick skillet with cooking spray; heat over medium-high heat. Add beef and cook until browned, remove from pan. Add stir-fry mix, broth, teriyaki sauce, marmalade and soy sauce to pan. Bring to a boil; add pasta, reduce heat and cook 4 minutes or until pasta is tender. Return beef to mixture; cook until thoroughly heated.

Air Fryer Potstickers

Air Fryer Potstickers

Air Fryer Potstickers

 

1 box potstickers

1/8 cup soy sauce

1 tsp grated ginger

1/2 tsp fresh lime juice

dash sesame oil

 

Take a round baking dish that fits in your air fryer and pour in 1/4 cup water – just barely enough to cover the bottom. Set the dish inside the bottom of your air fryer – you might need to remove the tray in the bottom if it’s not a flat surface. Set the frozen potstickers in the baking dish in the water in a single layer. If your air fryer is small, you may have to make these in batches. Spritz potstickers lightly with olive oil spray. This is the step that keeps them soft but also have the crispy texture of a “fried” potsticker! Air fry at 350 for 3 minutes. While air frying, whisk together soy sauce, ginger, lime juice and sesame oil. Flip potstickers, spritz with olive oil and air fry 2-3 minutes more. Remove potstickers with tons and serve with soy ginger sauce.

Garlic Mustard & Olive Oil Bread Dip

Garlic Mustard & Olive Oil Bread Dip

Garlic Mustard & Olive Oil Bread Dip

 

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

1 cup of olive oil (and 3 extra tablespoons)

2 tablespoon of lemon juice

1 tsp. of sea salt

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

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

Directions

 

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

Cheesy Dandelion Spirals

Cheesy Dandelion Spirals

Cheesy Dandelion Spirals

 

1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, defrosted

1 &1/2 tablespoons butter (or olive oil)

2-3 garlic cloves, minced

2 cups fresh dandelion leaves, roughly chopped

Salt & pepper, to taste

1 ounce finely grated Parmesan cheese,

1 1/2 ounces crumbled Manchego cheese

 

Roll out your sheet of defrosted puff pastry into a 10”x14” rectangle of even thickness. In a large frying pan, bring the butter to medium heat. Add dandelion and garlic and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Whir your greens in the food processor. Add grated cheeses and salt & pepper to taste. Spread your cheesy dandelion mixture evenly over top of your rolled out pastry. Roll it up, then wrap it in parchment paper and place it in the freezer for 30-40 minutes. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside. When you take the pastry roll out of the freezer, use a serrated knife to slice it into thin slices about 1/2 – to 3/4 inch thick. Place each spiral onto the parchment-lined baking sheet. If you want, just loosen the end of dough from the spiral and shape into the head of snake! Bake them in the oven for 20 minutes or until lightly golden. Serve warm.

Spiced Lavender Scented Citrus Salad

Spiced Lavender Scented Citrus Salad

Spiced Lavender Scented Citrus Salad

 

¼ cup sugar (I used turbinado raw sugar)

½ cup water

1 star anise

3 whole cloves

3 whole allspice

⅛ teaspoon dried red pepper flakes

Lavender leaves and flowers (optional)

3 cups assorted citrus fruit (I used pink grapefruit, grapefruit and navel oranges)

 

Combine the sugar and water in a small saucepan and bring to a boil, stirring to dissolve the sugar.  Add the star anise, whole cloves, whole allspice, dried red pepper flakes and lavender leaves if available.  Boil for 2 minutes, watching carefully so as not to burn.  Remove from heat and let cool.  Peel the citrus fruit, removing all the pith and seeds.  Cut into bite-size pieces and place in a glass bowl; pour spiced syrup over all, stir to mix. Cover tightly and refrigerate for several hours.  Serve in a clear bowl to show off the pretty colors.  Garnish with fresh lavender flowers.

Caramelized Blackcurrant & Thyme Red Onion & Brie Tartlets

Caramelized Blackcurrant & Thyme Red Onion & Brie Tartlets

Caramelized Blackcurrant & Thyme Red Onion & Brie Tartlets

 

250g  Ready-made Shortcrust Pastry

2 tbsp Oilve Oil

2 Medium Red Onions – peeled and sliced

3 tbsp Blackcurrant & Thyme Vinegar

125g  Brie – cut into 24 small pieces

Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper – to taste

 

Preheat the oven to 200C/400F/Gas 6. Roll the pastry to 0.25cm and cut 24 5cm circles from it using a cutter. Prick the circles with a fork and place on a baking tray. Bake in the oven for 10-12 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown, then remove and set aside to cool. Heat the oil in a frying pan. Add the onions and fry over a low heat stirring regularly until softened. Add the Blackcurrant & Thyme Vinegar and continue to cook, stirring well, until the onions have caramelized. Season as required. To assemble the tartlets, spoon some of the red onion mixture into each pastry circle and top with a piece of brie.

Peas with Nasturtium Blossoms and Mache Lettuce

Peas with Nasturtium Blossoms and Mache Lettuce

Peas with Nasturtium Blossoms and Mache Lettuce

 

1 clove Garlic, sliced in fine slivers

1 teaspoon Olive Oil

1 tablespoon fresh Dill, torn from stems

1/3 cup shelled peas

1-2 cups Mache lettuce

6 to 8 Nasturtium blossoms

 

In a medium skillet, heat olive oil.  Add garlic, dill and peas, sauté for 2 minutes. Toss in the Mache lettuce, sauté just until wilted.  Add Nasturtium blossoms and stir for about 10 seconds. Sprinkle with a bit of sea salt and serve immediately.

Pickling Spice Blend

Pickling Spice Blend

Pickling Spice Blend

 

1 tablespoons Mustard Seed

1 tablespoon Coriander Seed

1 tablespoon Caraway Seeds

1 Tablespoon Celery Seed

2 Whole Cloves

1 teaspoon Ground Ginger (or a fresh slice if using immediately)

1 teaspoon crushed Red Pepper Flakes

1 or 2 Bay Leaves, broken into pieces

1 teaspoon Whole Allspice Berries

1 teaspoon Black Peppercorns

1 teaspoon Whole Dill Seeds

Persimmon Salsa

Persimmon Salsa

Persimmon Salsa

 

Spoon this refreshing condiment over grilled fish or scoop up yummy bites with tortilla chips.

 

4 small or 3 medium-size firm but ripe Fuyu persimmons, peeled, cut into 1/2-inch cubes (about 1 2/3 cups)

2 tablespoons minced white onion, rinsed, drained

1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon fresh lime juice

1 tablespoon minced fresh basil

2 teaspoons minced seeded Serrano chile

2 teaspoons minced fresh mint

1 teaspoon minced peeled fresh ginger

 

Mix persimmons, onion, lime juice, basil, Serrano chile, mint, and ginger in small bowl. Season salsa to taste with salt and pepper. (Salsa can be made 4 hours ahead. Cover and refrigerate. Bring to room temperature before serving.)

Instant Pot Butter Stewed Potatoes

Instant Pot Butter Stewed Potatoes

Instant Pot Butter Stewed Potatoes

 

4-5 medium sized Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and sliced into 0.5 inch rounds

5-8 tablespoons of butter

1/4 cup diced onion (optional)

1/2 cup chicken or vegetable stock

salt

pepper

1/4 cup cream (optional)

 

Turn Instant Pot on to SAUTE mode, high. Once heated, add half of the butter and let it melt. Stir in onions and let them cook until soft, not browned. (Omit steps 1-3 if not using onion.) De glaze Instant Pot liner with chicken stock, add potatoes, salt, pepper, and the rest of the butter. Cancel the SAUTE mode, and press the PRESSURE cooker or MANUAL button on the Instant Pot. HIGH pressure. Set the cooking time to 8 minutes. Once cooking is complete, release the pressure manually. Stir potatoes and adjust seasonings. If using cream, stir it in. Garnish with chopped chives.

Rosemary Fig Preserves

Rosemary Fig Preserves

Rosemary Fig Preserves

 

1 pound ripe figs, stemmed and quartered or chopped

1-2 sprigs of rosemary about 5 inches long

3/4 cup sugar

2 tablespoons honey

1 lime

1-1/2 tablespoons lime or lemon juice

pinch of salt

 

Zest the lime and set the zest aside. Juice the lime and set the juice aside. Take one sprig of rosemary, remove the leaves and chop them finely. Discard the stem. Place all of the ingredients into a small pot. (Figs, rosemary sprig, chopped rosemary, sugar, honey, lime juice, lime zest, and salt) Heat on medium high heat and stir. Lower to a simmer and cook for about 40 minutes. Remove rosemary sprig, and strips of zest Mash figs with a fork or blend if you want a smoother consistency. Place into jars and cool. Store in the refrigerator. Or place in mason jars and process for 5-10 minutes store in a cool dry place.

What to do with Celery Leaves

What to do with Celery Leaves

What to do with Celery Leaves

 

Celery leaves are actually quite tasty and incredibly versatile.

 

Add celery leaves to salads: My aunt likes to cut up the leaves and add them to her green salads. I had never tried it myself until I went to her house for lunch one day. I was surprised to find that it can be a delicious addition to change up and add a burst of flavor to your raw greens. (I think that it especially pairs up well with salads with apple slices.) I think the best leaves for salads are the lighter green, younger leaves, but that is a matter or taste, of course.

 

Add celery leaves and stalk pieces to stocks and bone broths: I like to freeze some of the leaves, and the small, ugly stalk bits I cut from my snacking pieces, so I can have them handy whenever I make stock or bone broth. Celery is probably my favorite vegetable for adding to stocks and broths. Not only is it incredibly healthy, adding its vitamins and antioxidants to your already healthy broths, but it also adds delicious flavor. I also often blend celery leaves and stalk pieces, along with onions, into soups with an immersion blender to give them great flavor and a thicker consistency. (That was a tip I learned from another one of my aunts.)

 

Chop celery leaves and use them as an herb. Celery leaves make a great replacement for fresh parsley in many recipes. You can chop the fresh leaves and add them to salsa and homemade salad dressings, for example. You can also dry the leaves and crumble them, using them as you would dried parsley.

Make pesto sauce with celery leaves.

 

Make celery powder with leftover leaves and ugly stalk pieces. This is actually probably my favorite use of leftover celery leaves and bits and pieces. It’s simple enough to dehydrate the leftover pieces and grind them into a fine powder once they are fully dry. The nice thing about celery powder is that it doesn’t take up much space at all and it keeps very well. I like to add it to soups, sauces, and all sorts of other dishes to add flavor and nutrients.

 

Make celery salt. Celery salt is just a modified use of celery powder. It is often made with ground celery seed that is mixed with salt. Don’t have celery seeds? You can also make a wonderful celery salt using the leaves and other not-so-pretty celery bits. Celery salt is often asked for in recipes, but I like to use it in place of regular sauce in all sorts of recipes to add extra nutrients and flavor!

 

Save for chickens or compost. If you don’t want to use the celery leaves yourself, don’t throw them away! When I’m short on time (and my freezer is full, and I have an abundance of celery powder on hand already), I throw them to my hens and they seem to love them. You can also add them to your compost bin.

 

Celery Powder

 

Wash and dry celery leaves and other celery bits and pieces. (To reduce drying time, consider chopping stalks into smaller pieces.) Fully dry leaves and stalk pieces in a dehydrator or at the lowest heat and convection setting of your oven. (Check occasionally and remove dry, brittle pieces, leaving the rest of the celery pieces to continue drying until brittle.) Once they are fully dry, grind up the celery leaves and stalk pieces until you obtain a fine powder. Celery leaves can be easily pulverized with a mortar and pestle. If using stalk bits, though, I find it much easier to use a spice grinder of coffee grinder.   Store the homemade celery powder in a well-sealed container to keep moisture out, preferably out of direct sunlight.

 

 

Celery Salt

 

2 Tbsp celery powder

2 Tbsp salt

 

Mix together celery powder and salt. Store in a well closed container in a cool, dark place.

Salted Spicy Watermelon Margarita Popsicles

Salted Spicy Watermelon Margarita Popsicles

Salted Spicy Watermelon Margarita Popsicles

 

4 cups cubed watermelon

1 jalapeño, halved and seeded, if desired (optional)

2-6 tablespoons granulated sugar, using more or less to your taste

1/3 cup, plus 1 tablespoon tequila

2 tablespoon Cointreau (orange liquor) (orange liquor)

1/2 cup, plus 2 tablespoons lime juice, plus 1 tablespoon lime zest

4 kiwi, peeled and chopped

2 Persian cucumbers, peeled and chopped

flaky sea salt, for sprinkling

 

In a blender, blend the watermelon, jalapeño, and sugar. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve into a pitcher. Add the tequila, Cointreau, and 1/2 cup lime juice + lime zest, stirring to combine. Pour the mixture among 6 popsicle molds or Dixie cups. Freeze one hour. Rinse the blender out and blend the kiwi, cucumbers, 2 tablespoons lime juice, and 1 tablespoon tequila, blend until smooth. Pour the kiwi over the watermelon layer, filling the molds to the top. Insert popsicles sticks. Freeze until firm, at least 4 hours. Serve with lime wedges and flaky salt…and maybe even a margarita too!

Watermelon-Jalapeno Popsicles

Watermelon-Jalapeno Popsicles

Watermelon-Jalapeno Popsicles

 

6 cups chopped fresh watermelon

1/2 cup of lime juice

1/2 cup of sugar*

2 large jalapenos, quartered, seeded and coarsely chopped

1 heaping Tablespoon of lime zest

 

Combine the watermelon, lime juice, corn syrup and jalapenos in a blender and process until pureed. Pour through a strainer or chinois and press out the liquid. Discard the solids. Adjust sweetness/tartness/bite* to taste. Stir the lime zest into the liquid. Pour into Popsicle molds. Freeze until ready to serve. *Depending on the sweetness of your watermelon, you may want to add a little more sugar. Taste and adjust.

Grilled Meyer Lemon and Asparagus Pizzettes with Ricotta And Prosciutto

Grilled Meyer Lemon and Asparagus Pizzettes with Ricotta And Prosciutto

Grilled Meyer Lemon and Asparagus Pizzettes with Ricotta And Prosciutto

 

2 garlic cloves, smashed

2-3 Tablespoons olive oil

Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes

4 individual pizza crust(s)

1 pound of thin asparagus spears

2 Meyer lemons*, thinly sliced

1 cup good quality prepared pesto

1 cup ricotta cheese

2 pieces of prosciutto, fried crispy and coarsely chopped

Fresh grated Parmesan Cheese

 

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

Leek Fritters

Leek Fritters

Leek Fritters

 

1/2 Cup Greek Yogurt

1/2 Cup Sour Cream

2 Garlic Cloves, Minced

2 Tablespoons Lemon Juice

3 Tablespoons Extra-Virgin Olive Oil

1/2 Teaspoon Salt

1/2 Cup Parsley

1 Cup Cilantro

 

For the Fritters

 

3 Leeks, Trimmed, Sliced Lengthwise, Cut into 1/2 Inch Pieces and Cleaned Thoroughly

1 Vidalia Onion, Chopped

Extra-Virgin Olive Oil

1/2 Cup Parsley, Chopped

3/4 Teaspoon Coriander

1 Teaspoon Ground Cumin

1/4 Teaspoon Ground Turmeric

1/4 Teaspoon Ground Cinnamon

1 Teaspoon Sugar

Salt

1 Egg White

3/4 Cup Plus 1 Tablespoon All-Purpose Flour

1 Tablespoon Baking Powder

1 Egg

2/3 Cup Milk

4 1/2 Tablespoons Butter, Melted

 

Make the Sauce: This part is super easy. Add all the sauce ingredients to a food processor with the lower blade attached. Run the processor for about 15 second or until the sauce is smooth. Finally, using a rubber spatula, transfer the sauce from the food processor into a small bowl and place in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it later.

 

Prepare the Vegetables & Spices: Warm a large heavy skillet over medium heat. Then, when the pan is to temperature, add 4 tablespoons of olive oil to it. Also add the cut leeks and the chopped onion and cook for 15 minutes, while stirring occasionally. The goal here is to soften and lightly brown these ingredients. When the leeks and onion have softened sufficiently, transfer them to a medium sized bowl. Add the parsley, coriander, cumin, turmeric, cinnamon, sugar and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Mix everything thoroughly.

 

Add the egg white to a small bowl and whisk until it forms peaks. After the egg white has a firm consistency, transfer it to the bowl with the softened leek in it. Fold the egg whites into the vegetables.

 

In another medium sized bowl, add the flour, baking powder, 1/4 teaspoon salt, whole egg, milk and butter. Mix these ingredients well until they are smooth. Then, add the batter to the bowl with the vegetables in it and mix well.  Warm a large skillet over medium heat. When the pan is to temperature, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil to it and then add a few ladles of batter as well. Each fritter should consist of approximately 1 ladle-full. Let the fritters cook for about 3 minutes each side. You’ll know when to flip them when you slide a fork under each one and the underside is nicely browned.  As you make your way through the fritters, set each one aside on a plate. When they are all finished, divide them among the different plates. You should end up with 8 fritters in all. Serve with a side of sauce and enjoy.

Sheet Pan Pork Fried Rice

Sheet Pan Pork Fried Rice

Sheet Pan Pork Fried Rice

 

1 lb. thin boneless pork loin chops trimmed of fat and cut into ½ inch pieces

½ teaspoon sea salt

½ teaspoon fresh ground pepper

2 teaspoons sesame oil

6 cups cold day old basmati rice

1 ½ cup frozen peas and carrots

1 cup frozen edamame beans

1 small onion diced

½ cup soya sauce

2 tablespoons oyster flavored sauce

1 tablespoon sesame oil

3 cloves garlic minced

1 tablespoon fresh ginger minced

3 eggs

½ cup cooked bacon pieces

2 green onions sliced

 

Preheat the oven to 350℉ . Spread pork out on a large cookie sheet. Drizzle with 2 teaspoons of sesame oil and season with salt and pepper. Toss pork to coat. Cook pork for 5 minutes or until outside of pork is no longer pink. Place frozen peas, corn, and edamame beans in a colander and rinse with warm water for a few minutes until thawed. Drain well. In a small bowl, mix soya sauce, oyster flavored sauce, 1 tablespoon sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Place cold, cooked rice in a large bowl and add diced onion, peas and corn, edamame beans, and soya sauce mixture. Toss well to combine. Pour rice mixture on the sheet pan and stir gently to mix with the pork. Cook for 12 minutes. While rice is cooking, scramble the eggs in a non-stick frying pan. When time is up for rice, remove from the oven and top with cooked bacon pieces and egg. Cook for an additional 3 minutes. Garnish with sliced green onions.

Pistachio Muffins

Pistachio Muffins

Pistachio Muffins

 

1/2 cup vegetable oil

1 cup granulated sugar

2 eggs

1/2 teaspoon almond extract

1 cup milk

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 3.4 oz box pistachio instant pudding mix

1/2 teaspoon salt

2 teaspoons baking powder

Coarse sugar for the tops if desired

 

Optional: ¼ c. chopped pistachios (add to batter)

 

Preheat oven to 425° F. Line muffin tins with muffin liners (I used parchment paper liners (link in recipe card) and they worked great). In a medium bowl, whisk together vegetable oil, sugar, eggs, almond extract, and milk until fully combined and fluffy. In a small bowl, whisk together flour, pudding mix, baking powder, and salt. Combine wet ingredients with dry ingredients and stir, just until mixed together. Lumps are okay. Spoon batter into prepared muffin tins, filling each cavity 3/4 of the way full. Sprinkle with coarse sugar if using. Bake at 425° for 6 minutes, then reduce the heat in the oven to 350° and continue cooking another 11-12 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Do not over bake. Allow muffins to cool for about 5 minutes before removing them from the muffin tin and transferring to a cooling rack to finish cooling.

Instant Pot Bacon Cheddar Egg Bits

Instant Pot Bacon Cheddar Egg Bits

Instant Pot Bacon Cheddar Egg Bits

 

5 eggs

1/2 cup cottage cheese

1/2 cup cheddar cheese

1/4 cup milk

6 slices of bacon crumbled

Salt and pepper to taste

 

Pour 1.5 cups water into the Instant Pot. Add eggs, cottage cheese, cheddar cheese, and milk to a food processor. Process until the mixture is smooth and combined. Divide bacon crumbles evenly between egg molds. Pour egg mixture over bacon. Place silicon egg mold onto the trivet and carefully lower into the Instant Pot. Place foil loosely over the top. Set the Instant Pot to Steam for 8 minutes, Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes and then quick release any remaining pressure.  The egg bites may puff up a bit and look like they are going to pop out of the mold, this is normal, they will settle back down into the mold,

Les Potatoes de la Semaine (weeknight potatoes)

Les Potatoes de la Semaine (weeknight potatoes)

Les Potatoes de la Semaine (weeknight potatoes)

 

Six big Yukon Gold (or any of your favorite yellow flesh potatoes)

1 tsp sweet paprika

1 tsp ground cumin

3 tbsp olive oil

2 tbsp chopped parsley

2 tbsp chopped cilantro

1 tsp fresh lemon juice

2 garlic cloves, pressed or minced

1 tsp Harissa, or your favorite hot sauce (Optional)

Salt

Freshly ground black pepper

 

Preheat the oven at 400F. Peel and slice the potatoes into wedges or fries. Put them in a bowl, along with the olive oil, salt, black pepper, ground cumin, paprika and harissa, if used. Toss the potatoes to combine. Arrange them in a baking sheet in a single layer and bake until golden brown and crisp on the outside, turning them over once, about 25-30 minutes. Mix the herbs, garlic, lemon juice in a bowl. When the potatoes are baked, toss them quickly with the garlic infused herbs and serve.

Pickled Kohlrabi

Pickled Kohlrabi

Pickled Kohlrabi

 

Pickling Mixture

3/4 c white vinegar

1 1/4 c water

3 Tablespoons sugar

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon dill seed

1 teaspoon mustard seed

1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes

 

Peel and slice 3 kohlrabi, 1/4 inch thick. Peel one carrot and slice into thin sticks. Parboil the carrot briefly (should yield to a fork but not be soft). Place raw kohlrabi, carrot, 2 crushed garlic cloves, 1 bay leaf, and a sprig of fresh dill into a quart canning jar. Heat pickling mixture to boiling and pour over the vegetable mixture in the jar, filling the jar completely. Let cool, then refrigerate for 3-4 days before use. Will keep for several weeks in the refrigerator.

Green Tomato Relish

Green Tomato Relish

Green Tomato Relish

 

Slice:

One-half peck green tomatoes (about 8 lb)

12 bell peppers, about 1/3 red or as available

5 large onions (less if Spanish onions, which are larger)

1 large garlic bulb or about 8 cloves of garlic

 

In a crock: Layer these sliced vegetables with about 1/2 cup pickling salt; add scant teaspoon to finish as needed. Push  a clean plate down over the vegetables until brine covers them.  Cover the crock and set in cool corner overnight.   Drain and rinse after 12 hours (approximately).

 

Pickling mixture:   (Heat in resistant pan, enamel or stainless steel)

1 1/2 quarts cider vinegar

2 lb light brown sugar

1 T plus 1 t powdered ginger

1 T plus 1 t dry mustard

In infuser bag or wrapped in cheesecloth

2T whole cloves

2 sticks cinnamon

1 T celery seed

 

Add vegetables and simmer until translucent.  Try to avoid a heavy boil. Can these in pint jars for 15 minutes (hot water bath canning). Pickles can first be chopped in a food processor, taking care not to purée the relish. Allow pickles to mellow for 1 month before using.

Easy Beef & Bean Enchiladas

Easy Beef & Bean Enchiladas

Easy Beef & Bean Enchiladas

 

1 1/2 pounds ground beef

3 tablespoons vegetable or canola oil

10 corn or flour tortillas

1 8-ounce package sour cream

cilantro optional

1 cup canned black beans rinses and drained

2 cups shredded Monterrey Jack or Cheddar cheese

1 homemade enchilada sauce recipe

 

Brown ground beef over medium-low heat. Drain meat to remove any excess drippings. Add ¼ cup of enchilada sauce into brown meat and stir until well-combined. For the Enchilada Assembly: Preheat oven to 350º F. Pour ½ cup enchilada sauce into the bottom of a 9×13 oven-safe, casserole dish. Drizzle oil into the bottom of a skillet over a medium-low heat. Add tortillas, one at a time, and cook for about 1 minute each. Do not allow to become crispy. Drain tortilla and then layer on beef, sour cream, cheese, cilantro, and beans. Roll tortilla to keep all ingredients inside. Then place seam side down in the casserole dish. Once all enchiladas have been assembled and placed into casserole dish, pour remaining enchilada sauce over to make sure well covered. Top with remaining cheese. Place in oven and bake 15 minutes, or until cheese has fully melted. Remove from oven and top with additional cilantro, if desired.

Tortellini Caprese Bites

Tortellini Caprese Bites

Tortellini Caprese Bites

 

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

3 cups halved grape tomatoes

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

60 (6-inch) wooden skewers

Basil Vinaigrette

Optional, pitted Black Olives

 

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

Marinara Cheesy Baked Eggs

Marinara Cheesy Baked Eggs

Marinara Cheesy Baked Eggs

 

1 cup marinara sauce

4 large eggs

1/4 cup fat free or low-fat milk

1/4 cup shredded gruyere cheese

2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

1/4 cup basil leaves, chiffonade

 

Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. Lightly oil two 10-ounce ramekins or coat with nonstick spray. Divide marinara sauce evenly into the ramekins. Top with eggs, milk, gruyere and Parmesan; season with salt and pepper, to taste. Place into oven and bake until egg whites are cooked through, about 10 minutes.

Serve immediately, garnished with basil leaves, if desired.

Cucumber Avocado Toast

Cucumber Avocado Toast

Cucumber Avocado Toast

 

2 pieces sourdough bread, toasted

2 tablespoons Rice Vinegar

½ teaspoon Soy Sauce

1 teaspoon Sesame Oil

½ lime, juiced

1 teaspoon olive oil

¼ cucumber, thinly sliced with a mandolin

1 avocado, thinly slices

½ teaspoon sesame seeds

Salt and pepper to taste

 

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