Frittatinis

Frittatinis

IQS Frittatinis

 

coconut oil, butter, or ghee, for greasing.

8 eggs.

2 C. roughly chopped raw vegetables (asparagus, mushrooms, onion, kale, and/or zucchini)

6 slices ham or 4 rashes bacon, diced.

3 green shallots, sliced, or a handful of basil leaves, chopped.

freshly ground black pepper and/or chili flakes, to taste.

 

Preheat the oven to 170°C / 350ºF and grease a 12-cup muffin tray. Beat the eggs in a large bowl. Finely chop the veggies using a food processor. Add the veggie mix and ham to the eggs, then stir in the shallots/basil, pepper and/or chili flakes and spoon the mixture into the muffin tray. Bake for 12-15 minutes, eat while warm.  Note:  You could also use par-cooked and frozen vegetables such as butternut squash, sweet potato or broccoli – if so, skip the processor step.

Fresh Pasta with Lemon Cream

Fresh Pasta with Lemon Cream

Fresh Pasta with Lemon Cream

15 oz. low fat ricotta cheese

dash salt

1 tsp. grated lemon rind

1 tsp. nutmeg (I used only 1/2 tsp)

4 C. cooked pasta

 

Empty ricotta into blender or food processor, using the steel blade. Add salt. Process until all graininess disappears and ricotta has the texture of thick whipped cream. Flavor the mixture with lemon peel and nutmeg. Store in refrigerator. Drain the hot cooked pasta, then immediately return it to the saucepan it was cooked in.  Add the whipped ricotta. Toss until pasta is well coated with sauce. Can garnish with parmesan, fresh parsley or a few thin slices of pitted black olives

Witches Hat Not-Nachos

Witches Hat Not-Nachos

Witches Hat Not-Nachos

8 oz cream cheese softened

1 T. taco spice if you like it spicy add some cayenne

1 tsp. fresh lemon juice

couple drops orange food coloring red & yellow or brown

2 T. sliced green olives

2-3 T. fresh cilantro chopped

1-2 T. carrot diced small

1 bag blue tortilla chips

1 resealable plastic storage bag

 

In a small bowl mix together cream cheese, taco seasoning, lemon juice & a couple drops of food coloring. Stir well until all ingredients are well combined. Spoon into plastic storage bag, squishing out air and sealing. Lay out your chips on a serving platter/dish. Remove any broken pieces. Cut off a tiny corner of the storage bag. Squeeze to drizzle cream cheese on each chip giving them a unique design replicating the band on hat. Sprinkle on green olives, carrots & cilantro.

Instead of carrots you could use bell peppers and if you do not like the taste of cilantro, substitute in flat leaf parsley for the cilantro.

Try fresh herbs like basil, dill, mint or parsley mixed with cream cheese, omitting the taco seasoning for a slimy green look.

Make cream cheese the day before, store in refrigerator, remove a couple hours before serving to soften up before piping your hats.

Pan Bread

Pan Bread

Pan Bread

2 C. warm water

1 T. sugar or honey

1 T. yeast

4 C. flour

2 tsp. salt

melted butter

 

In a bowl dissolve sugar and yeast in warm water. Let it sit for a few minutes. Stir in flour and salt. Dough will still be sticky. Place in a greased bowl, cover and let rise until double in size. Grease a cookie sheet/jelly roll pan. Spread dough flat onto sheet with palm of hand. Put melted butter on top. (can also sprinkle Garlic Parmesan blend, herbs, or sesame seeds on top) Cover with waxed paper and let rise again. Bake 400 degrees for about 20 minutes. Cut into squares.

Garlic-Parmesan Blend

Garlic-Parmesan Blend

Garlic-Parmesan Blend

1 medium size shaker of Parmesan cheese

1-4 T. of garlic powder

2-4 T. of dried parsley

 

Empty the shaker of Parmesan cheese into a mixing bowl. Add 1 T. of garlic, and 1 T. of parsley. Stir and taste. If you prefer stronger garlic taste, continue to add garlic 1/2 tsp. at a time until you reach a flavor you prefer. Add dried parsley to a point you think LOOKS good – it is there mostly for looks 🙂 When you get a blend you like, carefully pour it back into the Parmesan shaker and remove label. This is great on French bread, pizza crust, or even a piece of white toast for a simple side dish for spaghetti. I also use it on top of this recipe for Pan Bread (a quick and easy focaccia bread.)

Witches Hat Snacks

Witches Hat Snacks

Witches Hat Snacks

1/8 tsp. Chipotle chile, powder

2 T. Cilantro, fresh

2 T. Red bell peppers, roasted

2 T. Ripe olives

5 C. Tortilla chips, blue

 

Turn crispy triangles into a witch’s topper with a squeeze of chipotle cream cheese and sweet pepper confetti.

Meatloaf (a clone of Boston Market’s Meatloaf)

Meatloaf (a clone of Boston Market’s Meatloaf)

Meatloaf (a clone of Boston Market’s Meatloaf)

1 C. tomato sauce

1 1/2 T. barbecue sauce (we like Kraft original)

1 T. granulated sugar

1 1/2 lb. ground beef

6 T. flour

1/2 tsp. salt

1/2 tsp. onion powder

1/4 tsp. black pepper

dash garlic powder

 

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.  In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine tomato sauce, barbecue sauce and sugar. Heat until it begins to bubble, then remove from heat. Place the ground beef in a large bowl and add ALL BUT 2 T. of the tomato sauce mixture. Use your hands to mix the sauce in thoroughly. Then add the remaining ingredients: flour, salt, onion powder and pepper. Again, use your hands to mix well.  Place meat mixture into a loaf pan, top pan with foil and place in oven for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and slice the meatloaf into 8 equal slices (while it’s still in the pan). This helps to cook the center of the loaf. Pour the remaining 2 T. of sauce on top of the meatloaf in a stream down the center. Place meatloaf back into the oven, uncovered for 25-30 minutes or until it’s done.

Giant Witch Cookies

Giant Witch Cookies

Giant Witch Cookies

1 C. sugar

1 C. butter or margarine, softened

1 egg

1 teaspoon vanilla

3 C. Gold Medal™ flour

½ teaspoon baking powder

½ teaspoon salt

1 container Betty Crocker™ Rich & Creamy vanilla frosting

3 or 4 drops green food color

3 or 4 drops yellow food color

1 container Betty Crocker™ Rich & Creamy chocolate frosting

Assorted candies for decorating, as desired

 

In large bowl, beat sugar and butter with electric mixer on medium speed until creamy. Beat in egg and vanilla. Stir in flour, baking powder and salt. Divide dough in half; wrap in plastic wrap. Refrigerate 1 hour for easier handling. Heat oven to 375°F. Line cookie sheets with cooking parchment paper. Shape half of dough into 10 (1 1/2-inch) balls. On parchment-lined cookie sheets, pat each ball of dough into 4-inch circle, using floured fingers if necessary. Place 2 or 3 circles on each cookie sheet, about 9 inches apart. On floured surface, divide remaining half of dough into 2 portions. Roll each portion into 9×6-inch rectangle. Cut each rectangle into 4 whole triangles and 2 half triangles (see diagram).

Press 2 half triangles together to form fifth whole triangle. Cut 1/2-inch strip from top edge of each dough circle on cookie sheet; set aside. Place triangle over each cut edge of circle, covering 1/4 inch of cut edge; press to seal, aligning edge of triangle with edge of circle. Slightly bend point of “hat” if desired. Roll each 1/2-inch strip into 2 (1-inch) ropes; attach to either side of “hat” for brim. Bake 7 to 11 minutes or until edges of cookies are golden and surfaces look dry. With broad metal pancake turner, remove cookies from cookie sheets to cooling racks. Cool completely, about 30 minutes. Tint vanilla frosting green with green and yellow food colors. Spread on circles for witches’ faces. Spread chocolate frosting on hats. Make faces using candies.

Cheesy Baked Tortellini

Cheesy Baked Tortellini

Cheesy Baked Tortellini

Olive Oil

2 C. marinara sauce

1/3 C. mascarpone cheese

1/4 C. chopped fresh Italian parsley

2 tsp. chopped fresh thyme

1 lb purchased cheese tortellini

2 oz thinly sliced smoked mozzarella

1/4 C. parmesan

 

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Lightly oil an 8×8 inch baking dish.

Whisk the sauce, mascarpone cheese, parsley and thyme in a large bowl to blend. Cook the tortellini in a large pot of boiling, salted water until just tender, about 2 minutes. Drain. Add the tortellini to the sauce and toss to coat. Transfer the tortellini mixture to the prepared baking dish. Top the mixture with the smoked mozzarella and Parmesan. Cover and bake until the sauce bubbles and the cheeses on top melt, about 30 minutes.

Pan-Roasted Portobello Mushrooms with Mashed Parsnips

Pan-Roasted Portobello Mushrooms with Mashed Parsnips

Pan-Roasted Portobello Mushrooms with Mashed Parsnips

This savory mushroom dish is the vegetarian equivalent of a steak dinner. The rich taste and dense texture of the portobellos are complemented by creamy parsnips and lightly cooked greens.

 

1/4 C. soy sauce

2 T. balsamic vinegar

1 T. honey

4 T. Ketchup

2 cloves garlic, smashed

5 T. sherry

8 T. olive oil

4 portobello mushrooms, stems removed

2 parsnips, peeled, inner core removed, and coarsely chopped

2 Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and coarsely chopped

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

4 T. minced fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves

1 bunch Sautéed Leafy Greens (cooked down in olive oil and garlic, finished with lemon juice)

 

Preheat the oven to 400°F. In a blender, combine the soy sauce, vinegar, honey, ketchup, garlic, 3 T. of the sherry, and 3 T. of the olive oil and blend until smooth. Spread the mushrooms on a rimmed baking sheet, gill sides up, and pour the marinade over them. Let marinate for 20 minutes. Combine the parsnips and potatoes in a saucepan with water to cover. Bring to boil over high heat, then lower the heat and simmer, uncovered, until the vegetables are tender, about 6 minutes. Drain and mash with 3 T. of the olive oil. Season with salt, then cover and set aside. Heat a large ovenproof pan and add the remaining 2 T. olive oil. Lift the mushrooms out of the marinade and reserve the marinade for later. Sear the mushrooms, gill side up, for 1 minute. Sear the second sides for 30 seconds.  and turn off the heat. If the pan isn’t big enough, you may need to sear the mushrooms in batches, but it’s okay to crowd them in a little for roasting. When you’re done searing, pour 1 T. of the reserved marinade over each mushroom and season with salt.  Cover and roast in the oven for 20 minutes. Uncover and roast for 5 minutes more. Transfer the mushrooms to a plate using a slotted spoon. Put the ovenproof pan with the roasting juices back on the stove over high heat, add the reserved marinade and the remaining sherry, and bring to a boil. Reduce the sauce for 1 minute. To serve, put a scoop of mashed parsnips and potatoes on a plate. Slice the mushrooms in half and put 2 halves on top of the parsnips. Spoon the sauce over the vegetables and garnish with parsley and black pepper. Serve with the sautéed greens.

Stout-Braised Sausages with Apples, Pears and Cranberries

Stout-Braised Sausages with Apples, Pears and Cranberries

Stout-Braised Sausages with Apples, Pears and Cranberries

4 large sausage links

1 T. olive oil

2 medium or large yellow onions, sliced

2 ripe Bosc pears, peeled, cored and sliced

2 apples peeled, cored, and sliced

1/2 pint fresh cranberries

12 oz. bottle of your favorite stout, brown ale or mocha porter

 

Preheat oven to 350. Set a large heavy pot over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once it’s hot, add the onions and saute five minutes or until they begin to soften. Add the sausages and brown on each side, turning them to prevent sticking, about 5-7 minutes.

“Salted Caramel” Haloumi Cheese and Apple

“Salted Caramel” Haloumi Cheese and Apple

“Salted Caramel” Haloumi Cheese and Apple

1/4 x 1/4-in.-thick slices haloumi

1 green apple, cored and cut into 1/4-in. wedges

pinch of salt

sprinkle of ground cinnamon (optional)

Place the haloumi and apple slices in a hot non-stick frying pan. Jiggle the pan a little so the fat from the haloumi coats the apple. Cook on both sides for 1-2 minutes, until both the apple and haloumi are a lovely caramel color. Sprinkle with salt and cinnamon (if using) and serve.

Lemon Buttermilk Cake

Lemon Buttermilk Cake

Lemon Buttermilk Cake

2 1/2 C. cake flour

1 tsp. baking powder

1/2 tsp. baking soda

1/2 tsp. salt

3/4 C. buttermilk, room temperature

3 T. grated lemon zest (about 3 lemons)

1/4 C. fresh lemon juice

1 tsp. vanilla extract

1 3/4 C. granulated sugar

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

3 large eggs plus 1 egg yolk, room temperature

 

3 C. confectioners’ sugar

3 T. lemon juice

2 T. buttermilk

 

Adjust oven rack to middle position. Heat oven to 325 degrees. Grease and flour a glass 13 x 9-inch baking pan. Combine flour, powder, soda and salt in a medium bowl. Combine buttermilk, lemon juice and vanilla. Beat granulated sugar and lemon zest until moist and fragrant, about 1 minute. Reserve 1/4 C. of sugar mixture; cover and set aside. Add butter to remaining sugar mixture and beat until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Add eggs and yolk, one at a time, until incorporated. Reduce speed to low. Add dry ingredients in 3 additions, alternating with buttermilk mixture in 2 additions. Mix until smooth about 30 seconds. Scrape batter into prepared pan an smooth top. Bake until cake is golden brown and toothpick inserted into center comes out clean, 25 to 35 minutes. Transfer cake to wire rack and let cool 10 minutes. For the glaze: While cake cools, whisk confectioner’s sugar, lemon juice and buttermilk until smooth. Gently spread over warm cake. Sprinkle evenly with reserved sugar. Cool completely, at least 2 hours.

Brussels Sprouts with Pancetta and Onions

Brussels Sprouts with Pancetta and Onions

Brussels Sprouts with Pancetta and Onions

1 1/2 lb. Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved

4 oz. pancetta, diced

1 large onion, quartered and thinly sliced crosswise

1/2 tsp. kosher salt

1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

2 T. red wine vinegar (optional)

 

Bring 1-inch of lightly salted water to a boil in a large, deep skillet. Add sprouts and simmer, covered, until crisp-tender, 6 to 8 minutes. Drain and run under cold water to cool. Wipe out the skillet. Add pancetta and cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until crisp, 5 to 7 minutes. With a slotted spoon, transfer to paper towel–lined plate. Add onion to drippings in skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender and golden, 8 to 10 minutes. Increase heat to medium-high. Add sprouts, salt and pepper, and cook, tossing, until heated through, about 3 minutes. Add pancetta and vinegar, if using, and toss to combine. Use leftovers in an omelet the next morning.

Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin with Rainbow Roasted Veggies

Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin with Rainbow Roasted Veggies

Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin with Rainbow Roasted Veggies

2 C. cherry tomatoes

4 oz baby bella mushrooms, halved

2 large yellow bell peppers, sliced

1 small butternut squash, peeled and diced

2 heads broccoli, cut into florets

2 large red onions, chopped

¼ C. olive oil

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 lb. fatty bacon

1 pork tenderloin (about 1 1/2 lb.)

 

Preheat oven to 450°F. Arrange the tomatoes, mushrooms, peppers, squash, broccoli, and red onions in rows on a sheet pan. Drizzle with olive oil and season liberally with salt and pepper, set aside. On a large cutting board, lay out the bacon slices side-by-side, overlapping slightly. Place the pork tenderloin on top of the bacon, then season with salt and pepper. Wrap the bacon up and around the tenderloin. Place the tenderloin on top of the bed of veggies on the sheet pan. Roast in preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until all the veggies are tender, and the inside of the pork tenderloin reads at least 145°F on an instant read thermometer. Remove from the oven, and let rest for 5-10 minutes for the juices to redistribute and the bacon to crisp up. Remove the pork tenderloin to a cutting board, and slice into 1/2-inch slices. Serve with roasted veggies. (Recipe yields about 3 oz pork and 1 C. veggies per serving.)

Flank Steak Thinly Sliced over Arugula with Garlic and Lemon Oil

Flank Steak Thinly Sliced over Arugula with Garlic and Lemon Oil

Flank Steak Thinly Sliced over Arugula with Garlic and Lemon Oil

1 (1 1/4 to 1 1/2 pounds) flank steak trimmed of fat

2 T. extra-virgin olive oil

1 tsp. minced garlic

Kosher or sea salt

Freshly ground pepper

6 oz. baby arugula leaves

1/4 C. lemon-infused extra-virgin olive oil (see Cook’s Note)

Fleur de sel or other finishing salt for sprinkling

 

Prepare a hot fire in a charcoal grill or preheat a gas grill on high. Remove the flank steak from the refrigerator 20 to 30 minutes before grilling and place it on a large, rimmed baking sheet. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil and garlic. Rub the steak on both sides with the mixture and season with salt and pepper. Oil the grill grate. Place the flank steak directly over the hot fire. Cover the grill and sear the steak on one side, 4 minutes for rare or 6 minutes for medium-rare. Turn, re-cover, and cook for 4 minutes more, or until an instant-read thermometer registers 120ºF for rare or 130º to 135°F for medium-rare. Transfer the steak to a carving board and let rest for 5 minutes. Cut the meat across the grain into 1/4-inch-thick slices. Scatter an equal amount of arugula on each dinner plate. Arrange overlapping slices of steak over the greens and spoon any accumulated juices over the top. Drizzle 1 T. of the lemon olive oil over each portion of steak and sprinkle with fleur de sel. Serve immediately. Notes:  Citrus-infused extra-virgin olive oils add big flavor to simply prepared foods, such as grilled steak, chicken, and vegetables, making the oils a staple in my grilling pantry.

Turmeric-Braised Halibut Steaks with Garlic

Turmeric-Braised Halibut Steaks with Garlic

Turmeric-Braised Halibut Steaks with Garlic

Fresh turmeric roots look similar to their cousin, ginger. Unlike ginger, turmeric presents with a deep golden tone that adds a bright yellow color to curries and sauces. Turmeric’s vibrant orange flesh is earthy, peppery, and slightly bitter. Some claim that turmeric possesses soothing and anti-inflammatory qualities for what ails the body.

 

Four 8-oz halibut steaks

2 1/2 tsp. fine sea salt

2 T. grapeseed or other neutral oil

1/4 cup peeled and minced fresh turmeric

12 medium-sized garlic cloves, minced

1 1/2 C. unsweetened coconut milk

4 serrano chiles, stems removed but seeds intact, cut in half lengthwise

1 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

 

Blot the fish steaks dry with paper towels and place on a large plate. Season both sides of the fish with 1 tsp. of the salt. Heat oil in a 12-inch frying pan over medium-high heat. Add fish and sear until golden brown on both sides, turning once, about 3 minutes per side. Remove the fish to a plate. Add the turmeric and garlic, and sauté, stirring constantly, until the aromatics are soft but not brown, about 1 minute. Add the coconut milk, chiles, pepper, and remaining 1 1/2 tsp. salt. Bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and return the fish to the pan. Spoon the sauce over the fish. Cover and cook, spooning the sauce over the fish once or twice, until the fish flakes easily when pierced with a knife, about 8 minutes. Arrange the fish on warm dinner plates, spoon some of the sauce over each fillet, and serve immediately.

Sweet and Sour Chicken Bundles

Sweet and Sour Chicken Bundles

Sweet and Sour Chicken Bundles

1/3 C. low-sodium chicken broth

2 T. rice vinegar

2 T. ketchup

1 T. low-sodium soy sauce

2 tsp. sesame oil

1 T. sugar

2 tsp. cornstarch

1 T. plus 2 tsp. canola oil

1 lb. skinless, boneless chicken breasts, sliced into 1/2-inch cubes

1 small green bell pepper, chopped

1 small red bell pepper, chopped

2 scallions, thinly sliced

2 garlic cloves, minced

2 tsp. minced ginger

1 C. chopped pineapple

12 egg roll wrappers

 

In a small bowl, whisk together the first seven ingredients. Set the sauce aside. Heat 1 T. of the canola oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until it’s no longer pink, about 5 minutes. Add the peppers, scallions, garlic, and ginger and cook, stirring often, until the peppers are slightly tender, about 3 minutes. Pour in the sauce and bring the mixture to a boil. Continue to cook the mixture until the sauce has thickened slightly, about 1 minute. Stir in the chopped pineapple, then remove the pan from the heat. Heat the oven to 375° and coat a standard 12-cup muffin tin with cooking spray. Center and press an egg roll wrapper into each well of the tin to form a cup. Fill each one with the chicken mixture. Fold in three corners of each wrapper, then lightly brush the inside of the remaining corner with water and press it in place on top of the others. Brush the tops of the bundles with the remaining oil. Bake them until golden and crisp, about 15 minutes. Let them cool for 5 minutes before unmolding them.

Baked Gnocchi with Spinach and Ricotta

Baked Gnocchi with Spinach and Ricotta

Baked Gnocchi with Spinach and Ricotta

3/4 C. ricotta cheese

1/3 C. thinly sliced fresh basil

3 oz. shredded mozzarella, divided

1 oz. fresh grated Asiago cheese

1 large egg, lightly beaten

1/4 tsp. crushed red pepper

salt and fresh ground black pepper

3 C. marinara sauce, divided

1 lb. packaged potato gnocchi, divided

2 C. baby spinach leaves, thinly sliced, divided

 

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. In small bowl, whisk together ricotta, basil, 1/3 C. of the mozzarella, Asiago, egg and crushed red pepper. Season with salt and fresh ground black pepper. In an 8″ square baking dish coated with nonstick spray, spread a thin layer of the marinara sauce over the bottom. Arrange one-half of the uncooked gnocchi in a single layer – scatter half of the spinach on top. Using a spoon, add small dollops of half of the ricotta mixture on top of the spinach. Spoon a layer of marinara over the ricotta, leaving enough sauce behind for another layer on top. Repeat layering, adding all of the remaining sauce on top. Scatter the remaining mozzarella on top. Place into the oven and bake until the sauce is bubbling and the cheese is lightly browned, about 35 to 40 minutes. Remove and let sit 10 to 15 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with additional grated Asiago cheese before serving, if desired.

Spot Prawns with Garlic, Sorrel, and White Wine

Spot Prawns with Garlic, Sorrel, and White Wine

Spot Prawns with Garlic, Sorrel, and White Wine

Lemony sorrel brightens the flavor of spot prawns, large shrimp that can be served with the head and tail on or peeled. To remove the shell, use scissors to cut down the back to the tail tip. Like all shrimp, prawns only take a minute or two to cook, and after that can become tough. Millet provides a fluffy bed that soaks up the sauce. Start this recipe the night before serving so that the millet can soak.

 

1 C. millet, soaked in cold water for 1 to 12 hours and drained

1/2 C. almonds, coarsely chopped

7 T. olive oil

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

2 shallots, thinly sliced

1 bunch green Swiss chard, stems removed and coarsely chopped

1 bunch sorrel, trimmed

1/4 C. white wine

1/4 C. vegetable or chicken stock

1 1/4 lb. spot prawns, peeled, deveined, and thawed

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 tsp. red pepper flakes

1 T. unsalted butter

 

In a saucepan or teakettle, bring 2 C. water to a boil. In a separate saucepan, heat the millet over medium heat, stirring frequently, until it is mostly dry. Stir in the almonds, 3 T. of the olive oil, and 1 1/2 tsp. salt. Add the boiling water to the millet. Decrease the heat and simmer, covered, for 30 minutes. Turn off the heat and let the millet rest, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and set aside. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 T. of the olive oil. Add the shallots and cook until they begin to brown, then add the chard and sorrel and cook until slightly wilted, about 1 minute. Add the wine and stock and bring to a boil. Decrease the heat slightly and simmer, uncovered, for 5 minutes, to let the liquid reduce and thicken. Season to taste with salt. Transfer the greens and cooking liquid to a large bowl. Heat the skillet over high heat and add the remaining 2 T. olive oil. Add the prawns and cook for 1 minute, undisturbed, until the bottoms turn pink. Season the prawns with salt. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Add the greens to the prawns and cook everything together for 30 seconds. Turn off the heat and stir in the butter. Taste and season. To serve, put a few heaping spoonfuls of millet on each plate, followed by the prawns. Pour the sauce over the top and season with pepper.

Sprouted Spicy Nuts

Sprouted Spicy Nuts

Sprouted Spicy Nuts

2 C. walnuts.

2 C. almonds.

3/4 tsp. each ground cinnamon, ground coriander and ground cumin.

1/2 tsp. ground turmeric.

2 T. salt.

Soak the nuts or seeds overnight in a pot of water with the salt. Drain and toss through all of the spices. Lay out on a baking tray and “heat” in the oven at the lowest temperature possible (less than 65ºC/150°F, or for gas ovens, on the pilot light) for 12-24 hours. Store and eat straight from the fridge. You can also store activated nuts in the freezer.

 

Variations

SALT AND VINEGAR ALMONDS Toss ¼ C. apple cider vinegar and 1 T. salt over 1½ C. of almonds just before you put them in the oven.

MEXICAN PUMPKIN SEEDS Toss the juice of 2–3 limes, 3 tsp. chili powder and 1 T. salt over 1 C. of pumpkin seeds just before you put them in the oven.

TAMARI PUMPKIN SEEDS After sprouting the pumpkin seeds, toss 1 C. of the seeds into a frying pan over medium-low heat. Add a splash of tamari and stir. The seeds will become a gooey, caramel glob pretty quickly, so remove from the heat almost immediately.

Cheesy Green Mish-Mash Soup

Cheesy Green Mish-Mash Soup

Cheesy Green Mish-Mash Soup

1 onion, roughly chopped

2 cloves garlic, chopped

3 T. coconut oil, ghee or butter

6 C. roughly chopped green vegetables

4 C. vegetable stock or basic chicken stock

1 C. of rocket/arugula or watercress

1 C. roughly chopped coriander, basil or flat leaf parsley leaves

pinch of salt

juice of 1 lemon

1/2 C. crumbed sharp cheddar

 

In a large saucepan, sauté the onion and garlic in the coconut oil. Add the green vegetables and stir for a minute, then pour in the stock and bring to the boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes. Stir in the rocket, herbs and salt. Turn off the heat and puree until smooth using a blender, or transfer to a blender and pulse. Whisk in the lemon juice and stir through the cheese. Serve hot.

IQS: Green Eggs with Ham

IQS: Green Eggs with Ham

IQS: Green Eggs with Ham

4 eggs

pinch salt

splash milk or cream

knob butter

3 T. Kale Pesto

toast, halved cherry tomatoes and slices of grilled ham, to serve

 

Use a fork to lightly mix the eggs, salt and milk or cream in a small bowl – not too much as you want to see a bit of yolk streaked through. Melt the butter in a frypan over medium heat, then pour in the egg mixture. Once the eggs ‘take’ a little, gently fold and lift using a flat wooden spatula – don’t stir. Pause, then fold again. After a minute, add the pesto and fold a little more until the whole lot is just soft and still a bit runny (about another minute). Remove from the heat and let sit, then gently stir to ensure it is cooked through. Serve with toast, cherry tomato halves and a few slices of grilled ham.

Salted Caramel Apple Sheet Cake

Salted Caramel Apple Sheet Cake

Salted Caramel Apple Sheet Cake

 

2 C. (254 grams) all-purpose flour

1/2 tsp. baking soda

1/4 tsp. salt

1 C. (200 grams) granulated sugar

1 C. (200 grams) lightly packed light brown sugar

1 tsp. ground cinnamon

2 sticks (227 grams) unsalted butter

1/2 C. (120 ml) buttermilk

2 large eggs

1 tsp. vanilla

2 C. (200 grams) peeled and chopped Granny Smith apples (about 2 medium apples)

For the glaze:

1 stick (113 grams) unsalted butter

1/4 C. (60 ml) milk

3 C. (375 grams) powdered sugar, sifted

1/2 tsp. vanilla extract

1/4 C. salted caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)

 

Make the cake: Preheat the oven to 400°F. Butter or oil a 10-by-15-inch jellyroll pan or a 16-3/4 by 12-inch sheet pan. In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, salt, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and cinnamon. In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, combine the butter with 1 C. water and heat until the butter melts. Bring to a boil. Once the mixture is boiling, remove from heat and add in the flour mixture. Add in the buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla. Gently stir in the apples. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading evenly. Bake for 20 minutes if using a jelly roll pan, and about 17 minutes if using a half sheet pan, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 10 to 15 minutes. Make the glaze: Meanwhile, combine the butter and milk in a large heat-proof bowl. Microwave until the butter is melted. Gradually stir in the powdered sugar until combined. Stir in the vanilla and caramel until combined. Pour evenly over the warm cake. Let set for about 15 minute before slicing and serving.

IQS Kale Pesto

IQS Kale Pesto

Kale Pesto

 

Note: I prefer this one with Parmesan instead of nuts.

 

1 medium bunch kale, stems removed

2 medium scallions, green parts only

2 cloves garlic

3 T. olive oil

juice of 1 lemon

1/4 C. grated Parmesan

salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

 

Steam the kale leaves for 2-3 minutes. Place all the ingredients in a food processor or blender and process until creamy and smooth. Store in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 1 week, or cover with a layer of oil and freeze.

Apple Peel Tea

Apple Peel Tea

Apple Peel Tea

 

The peels and cores of 5 apples

4 C. water

2 1/2 T. brown sugar

2 whole cloves

1 cinnamon stick

 

Place the apple peels and cores, water, and brown sugar in a medium saucepan. Bring to a full boil, then reduce to a simmer/low boil and add the cloves. Let simmer for one hour. After one hour, turn off the heat, add the cinnamon stick, and let sit for 45 minutes to an hour. You can also taste for sweetness when you add the cinnamon stick, adding more brown sugar if you like a sweeter tea. Pour the tea through a fine strainer, and discard the strained apple mush. The liquid can be stored in a container in the fridge (I generally use a mason jar), and leftovers can be drunk cold, or reheated on the stove or in a microwave.

Garlic Chicken Spring Rolls with Avocado Cilantro Sauce

Garlic Chicken Spring Rolls with Avocado Cilantro Sauce

Garlic Chicken Spring Rolls with Avocado Cilantro Sauce

1 T. olive oil

1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken

1/2 tsp. sea salt

1/4 tsp. ground black pepper

1/8 tsp. garlic powder

1 C. cooked quinoa (optional)

1 cucumber, thinly sliced

6 leaves fresh iceberg lettuce

6 rice spring roll papers

 

1 avocado, pitted and peeled

1/2 C. plain greek yogurt

1 C. unsweetened almond milk

1 cilantro bunch

1/2 tsp. garlic powder

1/2 tsp. sea salt

1 T. lime juice

 

For the Garlic Chicken Spring Rolls: Cook the chicken in olive oil over medium-high heat and season with sea salt, ground black pepper, and garlic powder. Once fully cooked, remove from heat, allow to cool, and dice. Dip one sheet of rice paper in warm water for about 3-4 seconds or hold under running water, until the paper becomes fully moistened with water. Then, lay the wrapper onto your work surface which should be clean and flat.  Near the bottom of your prepped spring roll wrapper and in the center, lay out the cucumber, iceberg lettuce, and diced chicken (and optional quinoa).   Fold the bottom over the chicken, then fold the uncovered sides inward, then tightly roll the wrapper all the way, as tightly wrapped as possible. Then repeat with the remaining ingredients. For the Avocado Cilantro Dipping Sauce: In a food processor or blender, combine avocado, Greek yogurt, almond milk, cilantro, garlic powder, sea salt, and freshly squeezed lime juice. Blend together until smooth. You can add a little more almond milk if it’s too thick.

 

Serving Size: 1 Roll w/ sauce

Calories: 202

Fat: 9.3g

Fiber:3.4g

Shrimp Spring Rolls with Spicy Almond Dipping Sauce

Shrimp Spring Rolls with Spicy Almond Dipping Sauce

Shrimp Spring Rolls with Spicy Almond Dipping Sauce

6 rice spring roll papers

1 T. olive oil

12 oz. shrimp, deveined

1/2 tsp. sea salt

1/4 tsp. ground black pepper

1 cucumber, thinly sliced

3 carrots, thinly sliced

6 leaves green leaf lettuce

12 mint leaves

 

2 T. almond butter

2 tsp. hoisin sauce

1 tsp. Sriracha sauce

1 tsp. rice wine vinegar

 

Cook the shrimp in olive oil over medium-high heat and season with sea salt and ground black pepper.  Once fully cooked and no longer transparent, remove from heat and allow to cool. Dip one sheet of rice paper in warm water for about 3-4 seconds or hold under running water, until the paper becomes fully moistened with water. Then, lay the wrapper onto your work surface which should be clean and flat.  Near the bottom of the spring roll in the center, lay out the cucumber, carrots, green leaf lettuce, fresh mint leaves, and cooked shrimp. Line the shrimp in a row. Fold the bottom over the end of the veggies and shrimp, then fold the uncovered sides inward, then tightly roll the wrapper all the way, as tightly wrapped as possible. Then repeat with the remaining ingredients. For the Spicy Almond Dipping Sauce: In a small mixing bowl, combine the almond butter, hoisin sauce, Sriracha, and rice wine vinegar. Stir until smooth. You can soften the almond butter by microwaving for 10-15 seconds, if needed.

 

Serving Size: 1 Roll, 2 T. Sauce

Calories: 105

Fat: 4.4g

Fiber: 2.2g

High Kickin’ Creamy Tomato Dressing

High Kickin’ Creamy Tomato Dressing

Creamy Tomato Dressing

1 lb. juicy, vine-ripened tomatoes (about 3 medium), coarsely chopped

1 C. yogurt

1 C. sour cream

3 T. apple cider vinegar

3 cloves garlic, peeled & chopped

1 T. ground cumin, preferably freshly ground

1 tsp. ground coriander seeds, preferably freshly ground

1 tsp. chile powder

1/2 tsp. salt

 

Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth, adding a little more tomato if it’s too thick. Store in refrigerator for up to 3 days. Warning note: The heat from the chile powder in the dressing becomes more pronoz.d the next day.

 

Other ways to enjoy this dressing:

 

Mixed into a Tex-Mex potato salad

Drizzled over a platter of sliced garden tomatoes

Tossed with a green salad

With a plate of grilled summer squash

In your favorite chicken salad

As a quick way to give rice salad a kick

Sheet-Pan Carne Asada

Sheet-Pan Carne Asada

Sheet-Pan Carne Asada

¼ C. vegetable oil

1 ½ tsp. ground cumin

1 ½ tsp. ground coriander

¾ tsp. salt

2 ears fresh sweet corn, cut in thirds, or 6 pieces frozen corn on the cob, thawed (from 12-ct package)

1 medium red bell pepper, cut in thin strips

1 medium yellow bell pepper, cut in thin strips

1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced

1 package (1 oz) taco seasoning mix

¼ tsp. ground red pepper (cayenne)

1 1/3 lb. beef flank steak

 

Tortillas and Toppings, as desired: flour tortillas, crumbled queso fresco, sliced radishes, diced avocado, chopped fresh cilantro, sour cream

 

Position oven rack 4 inches from broiler element. Spray 18×13-inch rimmed sheet pan with cooking spray. In large bowl, mix 2 T. of the vegetable oil, the cumin, coriander and salt. Add corn, bell peppers and onion to bowl, and toss to coat; transfer to pan. In same large bowl, mix remaining 2 T. oil, the taco seasoning mix and ground red pepper. Add steak; rub mixture in to steak. Transfer to pan with vegetables. Broil 8 to 10 minutes, turning steak and stirring vegetables once, until instant-read thermometer inserted in thickest part of steak reads 135°F (for medium). Transfer steak to cutting board; cover with foil and let steak rest 5 minutes. Stir vegetables in pan; return to oven, and broil 4 to 6 minutes longer or until vegetables are blackened in spots. Thinly slice steak on the bias, against the grain. Serve with vegetables in tortillas with toppings.  Note: If your oven’s broiler only covers the center of your oven, start steak in the center of the pan, then thoroughly stir vegetables and position them in center while steak rests to ensure all elements get plenty of time directly under the flames. If desired, cut corn from cobs for serving.

Chicken Cordon Bleu Crepes

Chicken Cordon Bleu Crepes

Chicken Cordon Bleu Crepes

7-10 store bought, prepared crepes (or you can make your own)

2 C. cooked chicken, chopped

1/2 C. chopped (cooked) ham

1 C. shredded Swiss cheese

2 T. butter

2 T. flour

1 chicken bouillon cube, mashed into powder

1 1/2 C. warm milk

1/3 C. shredded Swiss cheese

For Garnish: chopped Parsley, optional

 

Assemble crepes: On each crepe, pile some chicken, some ham and Swiss cheese. Roll up or fold in quarters and place in a greased casserole dish (9×13).  Make sauce: In a small saucepan, melt butter. Add in flour and mashed bouillon cube. Stir and let cook for 1 minute to cook out the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in milk. Bring this to a boil but watch so it doesn’t burn. Continue to stir and cook for a few minutes until it thickens. Remove from heat and add in 1/3 C. Swiss cheese. Stir until it melts. Pour 3/4 C. of sauce on top of the crepes. Bake 350 degrees for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Sprinkle with parsley, if using. Heat remaining sauce and serve with crepes.  I made the crepes the day before and kept them in the fridge between sheets of wax paper.

Three-Cheese Baked Macaroni

Three-Cheese Baked Macaroni

Three-Cheese Baked Macaroni

8 oz. multi-grain elbow macaroni

3 slices bacon, cut crosswise into 1/2″ thick pieces

3 garlic cloves, minced

3 large eggs

12 oz. canned evaporated milk

1/2 tsp. salt

1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper

pinch fresh grated nutmeg

6 oz. (about 1 1/2 cup) shredded sharp white cheddar

2 oz. (about 1/2 cup) shredded Monterey Jack cheese

1 1/2 oz. (about 1/3 to 1/2 cup) fresh grated Parmesan cheese

 

Preheat oven to 475 degrees. In a large pot of boiling, salted water, stir in pasta and cook a couple minutes short of al dente, about 6 to 8 minutes depending on brand. Drain well and set aside. Meanwhile, in a medium skillet, add bacon and place over medium heat. Cook, stirring often, until the bacon is crisp, about 8 to 10 minutes. In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook macaroni 6 minutes (it will be undercooked). Stir in garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Transfer bacon mixture using a slotted spoon to a paper-towel lined plate. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and evaporated milk. Add 1/2 tsp. salt, cayenne, nutmeg, cheeses and two to three tsp. bacon fat, if desired. Stir in cooked pasta and the cooked bacon and garlic mixture. Scoop mixture into an 8″ or 9″ baking dish coated with nonstick spray, spreading smooth with an off-set spatula. Place dish into the oven and bake until the sauce is bubbling at edges, about 10 to 12 minutes. Remove and place on a wire rack to cool for 10 to 15 minutes before serving.

Spiced Lamb and Couscous Stuffed Peppers

Spiced Lamb and Couscous Stuffed Peppers

Spiced Lamb and Couscous Stuffed Peppers

6 -8 red bell peppers look for similar sizes and shapes so they cook evenly

12 ounces ground lamb

1/2 tsp. cinnamon

1/2 tsp. allspice

1/4 tsp. cardamom

1/4 tsp. freshly grated nutmeg

olive oil

1/2 onion minced

3 cloves garlic minced

1/2 C. pine nuts

2 C. cooked couscous I cook mine in chicken stock for extra flavor

1/4 C. currants

1/2 C. crumbled feta cheese

salt and fresh cracked black pepper

pomegranate molasses optional

1 C. crushed tomatoes or any plain tomato sauce

Yogurt mint sauce

1 C. yogurt

1/2 C. mint leaves

juice of 1 lemon

 

Preheat oven to 350F. Slice the tops off your peppers and reserve. Remove the seeds and veins from the insides of the peppers. Brown the ground lamb and the spices in a skillet, breaking apart the meat as you cook. After it is well crumbled and no longer pink, remove it to a plate. Add a drizzle of olive oil to the pan and sauté the onions and garlic for a few minutes, until translucent. Remove to the plate with the lamb. Add the pine nuts to the pan and toast, stirring almost constantly, until they turn golden. Add a touch of olive oil if the pan is dry. Add back the meat and onions to the pan, along with the cooked couscous, currants, and feta. Mix well, and season with salt and pepper to taste. I like to drizzle in a little pomegranate molasses, if you have some, but it’s optional. Pour the tomato sauce into the bottom of a casserole dish that just fits your peppers. Arrange the peppers on top. Fill each pepper with the filling, pressing down slightly to insure each one is completely filled. Mound the filling up a bit at the top. Replace the tops loosely on the peppers. Cover the casserole dish and peppers with a sheet of foil. Crimp the foil along the sides of the pan so the peppers can steam. Bake for about one hour and 20 minutes, removing the foil for the last 20 minutes. The peppers should be tender and slightly browned. Serve with yogurt mint sauce on the side. To make the yogurt mint sauce, blend the ingredients together in a small food processor.

Instant Pot Lentil Soup

Instant Pot Lentil Soup

Instant Pot Lentil Soup

1 medium onion, chopped

2 large carrots, chopped

2 small celery, chopped

2 C. green or brown lentils, rinsed & drained (uncooked).  Red Lentils OK, but reduce cooking time by 14 minutes.

28 oz can diced or crushed tomatoes, low sodium

2 tsp. cumin

2 tsp. oregano

1 tsp. salt

Ground black pepper, to taste

2 bay leaves

2 bouillon cubes + 10 C. water or 10 C. veggie stock, low sodium

11 oz box of spinach or kale

1 large garlic clove, grated

Parmesan cheese, for serving

 

In Instant Pot, add onion, carrot, celery, lentils, tomatoes, cumin, oregano, salt, pepper, bay leaves and bouillon cubes. Add water enough to fill up to 2/3 full line or approximately 10 cups. Close the lid, set pressure vent to Sealing and press Pressure Cook on High pressure for 18 minutes. Display will say ON, Instant Pot will take about 30 minutes to come to pressure, you will see a bit of steam coming out from a valve, then float valve will rise and countdown from 18 minutes will begin. Lentil soup is ready but your Instant Pot needs to bring pressure down before you can open it, which will be indicated by a dropped down float valve. You can let it do it on its own which will take less than an hour – Natural Release. OR you can do Quick Release by turning pressure valve to Venting position, which takes 3-4 minutes. I recommend doing so outside to avoid the mess and smell. Open the lid, add spinach and garlic, stir and serve hot garnished with Parmesan cheese.  Make Ahead: Refrigerate chopped veggies with spices in an airtight container for up to 3 days and mix with the rest when ready to cook.

 

Freezer Meal: Add all ingredients in the order listed in the recipe minus water, spinach and garlic and freeze uncooked in a gallon size Ziploc bag. Cook from frozen with 10 or 14 C. of water for 20 minutes. Do quick release, then add spinach and garlic.

Instant Pot Proofed, No Knead Bread

Instant Pot Proofed, No Knead Bread

Instant Pot Proofed, No Knead Bread

2 C. all-purpose flour

1 C. white whole wheat flour, or regular whole wheat flour

2 teaspoons kosher salt, not regular table salt

1/2 teaspoon yeast, I use fast rise yeast

1 1/2 C. lukewarm water

 

Whisk together flours, salt, and yeast in a bowl (one that will fit on the trivet in your instant pot, 1 1 ½ qt. glass pyrex bowl). Stir in water until dough comes together in a shaggy mass. Don’t stir it too much! Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place in your Instant Pot on the trivet set down inside. Set Instant Pot to the “yogurt” setting (about 3.5 hours). When the time is up, place a Dutch oven (or similar oven-proof pot) in your oven and set to 450 degrees. Turn dough out of bowl onto a well-floured surface. It will be very sticky, and you may need a spatula to scrape all of the dough from the bowl. Form dough into a ball with floured hands. Loosely cover the dough ball with plastic wrap while your oven preheats. When the oven reaches 450 degrees, carefully remove the pot from the oven, place a small piece of parchment paper on the bottom of the pot, and set the dough on top of the paper. Cover and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the off the lid and bake an additional 7-15 minutes or until golden brown.

Slow-Cooker Burgundy Meatloaf

Slow-Cooker Burgundy Meatloaf

Slow-Cooker Burgundy Meatloaf

 

2 lbs. ground beef

2 eggs, beaten

1 c. soft bread crumbs

1 onion, chopped

1/2 c. Burgundy wine or beef broth

1/2 c. fresh parsley, chopped

1 T. fresh basil, chopped

1-1/2 t. salt

1/4 t. pepper

5 slices bacon, divided

1 bay leaf

8-oz. can tomato sauce, warmed

 

Combine ground beef, eggs, bread crumbs, onion, wine or broth and seasonings in a large bowl; mix well and set aside. Criss-cross 3 bacon slices on a 12-inch square of aluminum foil. Form meat mixture into a 6-inch round loaf on top of bacon. Cut remaining bacon slices in half; arrange on top of meatloaf. Place bay leaf on top. Lift meatloaf by aluminum foil into a slow cooker; cover and cook on high setting for one hour. Reduce to low setting and continue cooking, covered, for an additional 4 hours. Remove meatloaf from slow cooker by lifting foil. Place on a serving platter, discarding foil, bacon and bay leaf. Spoon warmed tomato sauce over sliced meatloaf. Serves 4 to 6.

Sheet Pan Cuban Steak with Avocado Chimichurri

Sheet Pan Cuban Steak with Avocado Chimichurri

Sheet Pan Cuban Steak with Avocado Chimichurri

1 C. cilantro leaves, packed

1 C. parsley leaves, packed

1 T. roughly chopped garlic

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes

1/4 C. red wine vinegar

1/2 C. extra-virgin olive oil

1 medium avocado, diced about 1 cup

 

1 pound skirt steak

1 teaspoon Kosher salt, as needed for seasoning

1/2 teaspoon black pepper, as needed for seasoning

2 T. olive oil

 

Prepare the chimichurri sauce: Add the cilantro, parsley, garlic, salt, cumin, and red pepper flakes to a food processor. Pulse until the leaves are coarsely chopped, about 5 pulses. Add the red wine vinegar, pulse 5 times. Add the olive oil, pulse 5 times. The chimichurri sauce should be emulsified and the herbs coarsely chopped.  Add the avocado: Transfer the chimichurri sauce to a medium bowl. Cut the avocado into 1/2-inch dice. Add the avocado to the chimichurri and gently stir to combine. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use. Avocado chimichurri to accompany skirt steak being lifted out of the bowl with a spoon Cut the steak: If the skirt steak comes in a long strip, cut across the grain into 2 to 3 smaller pieces, about 5 to 7 inches in length. This will allow the steak to fit better in the pan. Dry and season the steak: Thoroughly pat dry each steak with paper towels on each side. The surface should be very dry to help brown the surface of the meat. Generously season each side of the steaks with salt and pepper. Heat the pan: Heat a large 12-inch cast-iron skillet over high heat for 3 minutes. Once hot add the olive oil. Cook the steak: Use tongs to carefully add the steak to the pan, then press down on the surface a few times for more contact. Sear the first side until browned, about 2 to 4 minutes depending on the thickness of the meat. Flip and cook another 2 to 4 minutes. For medium-rare doneness, cook steak until it reaches an internal temperature of 130ºF. Work in two batches if needed. Rest the steak: Transfer steak to a cutting board, loosely cover with foil and rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Slice and serve the steak: Hold the carving knife at a 45-degree angle and then slice the steak against the grain, about 1/4-inch thick slices. Transfer skirt steak to a serving plate and either top with avocado chimichurri sauce or put the sauce on the side

Red Lobster Clam Chowder

Red Lobster Clam Chowder

Red Lobster Clam Chowder

1 quart clam juice

1 C. nonfat dry milk powder

1 3/4 C. chicken broth

2/3 C. all-purpose flour

2 stalks celery chopped fine

1 T. minced dry onion

10 oz. can clams drained

1 pinch parsley flakes

2 medium baked potatoes – peeled and crumbled

Salt and pepper to taste

 

In blender, puree clam juice, broth, milk powder, and flour. Pour into 21/2 quart saucepan and simmer, stirring constantly, over medium-high heat until thick and smooth. Reduce heat to low; stir in celery, onion, clams, parsley, and potatoes. Simmer for 45-60 minutes, then season with salt and pepper.

Grilled Shrimp with Garlicky Pea Purée

Grilled Shrimp with Garlicky Pea Purée

Grilled Shrimp with Garlicky Pea Purée

 

If fresh peas are out of season, frozen peas may be substituted. Serves 4 to 6 as an appetizer.

Purée:

2 cups fresh peas or 12 ounces frozen peas, defrosted, room temperature

1/4 cup fresh lemon juice

1 large garlic clove, chopped

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus extra as needed

1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest

1/2 teaspoon Tabasco, or to taste

1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

 

Marinade:

1 garlic clove, minced

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

2 teaspoons Tabasco or hot sauce

1 teaspoon salt

Pinch of sugar

 

1 pound medium (21/25) shrimp, peeled, tails intact, deveined

 

If using fresh peas, fill a medium saucepan halfway with water (do not add salt as this will toughen the peas) and bring to a boil. Add the peas and cook until bright green in color and tender, 3 to 4 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Transfer to the bowl of a food processor. Add the remaining puree ingredients and process to blend. (If using frozen peas, skip the first step and add the peas with the remaining ingredients to the food processor and process to blend). If purée is too thick, add more olive oil to achieve desired consistency. Taste for seasoning. Whisk all of the marinade ingredients in a large bowl. Add the shrimp and turn to coat. Refrigerate for 30 minutes. Prepare the grill for direct cooking over high heat. Thread shrimp on skewers. Grill over high heat with the lid closed until just cooked through, turning once, 2 to 4 minutes. Serve the shrimp warm with the pea purée for dipping, or spoon dollops of the pea puree over the shrimp. This is a great beat-the-heat recipe for the summer.  If you like this you might also enjoy these recipes from

Bacon Wrapped Green Bean Bundles with Mushroom Gravy

Bacon Wrapped Green Bean Bundles with Mushroom Gravy

Bacon Wrapped Green Bean Bundles with Mushroom Gravy

3 slices of bacon

1 lb. fresh or frozen green beans defrosted and trimmed

Mushroom Gravy

3 T. butter

1 cup fresh button mushrooms stemmed and sliced

1 tsp. garlic

1/4 cup flour

1 cup beef broth

1/4 cup heavy cream

2 tsp. basil

Salt and pepper

 

Preheat oven to 350. Cut your bacon slices in half and stretch slightly. Grabbing about 6-7 green beans, bundle together and wrap bacon around center of each bundle. Set aside. Meanwhile to make your Mushroom Gravy, in sauté pan add your butter and melt, once melted add your mushrooms and sauté until tender. Add your minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in your flour, then slowly add your beef broth and heavy cream. Gradually stir until thickened. Season with salt, pepper and basil. Pour in the bottom of a 11″x7″ baking dish and top with your green bean bundles. Bake for about 30 minutes or until bacon is crisp and green beans are tender.