Sparkling Citrus Sangria

Sparkling Citrus Sangria

Sparkling Citrus Sangria

1 lemon

1 lime

1 orange

20 ounces pineapple chunks in juice (1 can)

750 milliliter moscato wine (1 bottle)

1/2 C. gin

4 C. ginger ale (you can use diet or regular)

Slice the fruit into thin rounds. Cut some or all in half if you wish. Place the fruit in a large pitcher. Pour the pineapple chunks and juice in the pitcher. Add the wine and gin and stir. Place the pitcher in the refrigerator for an hour or until ready to serve. Make sure the ginger ale is also in the refrigerator, so it is cold when you add it. Right before serving, add chilled ginger ale. Serve with pretty-colored garnishes for a fresh, summery look!

Apple Fries with Caramel Pecan Dulce De Leche Cream Dip

Apple Fries with Caramel Pecan Dulce De Leche Cream Dip

Apple Fries with Caramel Pecan Dulce De Leche Cream Dip

5 sliced Fuji Apples

4 C. water

1 sliced lemon

1 C. all purpose flour

1/2 C. sugar

1/4 -1/2 C. coconut oil

1/2 C. sugar

1/2 T. cinnamon

1/2 can dulce de leche

6 oz cream cheese

1/4 – 1/2 C. chopped pecans

1/4 – 1/2 C. cool whip

 

Pour your water into a large bowl and add sliced lemon.  Slice your apples using an apple slicer or knife. Immediately put apple slices in water with lemon.  Once all apples are sliced and in the water lemon mixture, remove from bowl and place on a paper towel lined plate.  In a separate bowl, mix 1 C. of flour and 1/2 C. of sugar with a whisk. Add sliced apples and flour sugar mixture to a gallon size Ziplock bag. Shake well.  In a skillet over medium heat melt coconut oil.  Add apple slices to skillet and let cook on one side until lightly browned. Turn over and let cook until other side is lightly browned.  Remove apples to a paper towel lined plate. Set aside.  In a separate bowl add 1/2 C. sugar and 1/2 T. cinnamon. Whisk together.  Lightly sprinkle cinnamon sugar mixture over the apples.  In a medium mixing bowl combine softened cream cheese and dulce de leche. Microwave for 25 seconds. Remove from microwave and stir well until no lumps remain.  Mix in cool whip and pecans. Sprinkle chopped pecans on the top of the dip and serve with apples.

Savory Apple Tart with Onions, Cheddar and Thyme

Savory Apple Tart with Onions, Cheddar and Thyme

Savory Apple Tart with Onions, Cheddar and Thyme

16 T. (2 sticks) (8 oz./250 g) unsalted butter, cut into small pieces and frozen until firm

2 2/3 C. (13 1/2 oz./425 g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting

1 tsp. kosher salt

1 egg plus 1 egg yolk

1/4 C. (2 fl. oz./60 ml) plus 3 T. ice water

 

1 Tbs. unsalted butter

1 Tbs. extra-virgin olive oil

2 yellow onions, sliced into thin rings

1 C. (8 oz./250 g) crème fraîche

2 tsp. Dijon mustard

1 1/2 C. (6 oz./185 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 T. fresh thyme leaves, finely chopped, plus more for garnish (optional)

3 or 4 baking apples, such as Granny Smith, cored, partially peeled and thinly sliced

Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper

 

To make the crust, in a food processor, combine the butter, flour and salt and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse meal with some large pieces. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg, egg yolk and ice water. While pulsing, drizzle in the egg mixture until a dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a sheet of plastic wrap, shape into a rectangle and wrap well. Refrigerate until firm, at least 1 hour or up to 2 days. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a 14-by-21-inch (35-by-53-cm) rectangle and refrigerate until firm, about 15 minutes. Coat a nonstick baking sheet with cooking spray. Fit the dough into the prepared baking sheet. Fold the excess dough under and pinch to form a crust that comes 1/2 inch (12 mm) above the rim. Freeze until firm, about 30 minutes. Position 1 rack in the upper third and 1 rack in the lower third of an oven. Preheat to 375°F (190°C).  Line the dough with parchment paper, pressing it flush against the surface of the dough and leaving a 2-inch (5-cm) overhang on all sides. Top with pie weights or dried beans. Fold the parchment over the edges of the crust. Bake on the lower oven rack for 25 minutes, rotating the baking sheet halfway through.  Remove the parchment and weights. Continue baking until the crust is golden brown and crisp, 15 to 17 minutes more. Transfer the baking sheet to a wire rack and let cool slightly. Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (180°C). Meanwhile, make the filling: In a large fry pan over medium heat, melt the butter with the olive oil and swirl the pan to combine. Add the onions and cook until lightly browned and starting to caramelize, about 8 minutes per side. Remove from the heat.  In a small bowl, stir together the crème fraîche and mustard and spread evenly over the crust. Sprinkle with 1 C. (4 oz./125 g) of the cheese and the thyme. Arrange the apple slices and onions on top. Sprinkle with the remaining 1/2 C. (2 oz./60 g) cheese, and season with salt and pepper. Bake on the top oven rack until the pastry is golden and the cheese is melted, about 25 minutes. Let cool for 10 minutes, then garnish with thyme, cut into slices and serve. Serves 6.

Salami Chips with Roasted Garlic White Bean Dip

Salami Chips with Roasted Garlic White Bean Dip

Salami Chips with Roasted Garlic White Bean Dip

 

1 whole head of garlic

1 tsp. olive oil

1 14-oz. can Great Northern white beans, drained and rinsed

1/4 tsp. salt

1/4 tsp. black pepper

3 T. olive oil

1 T. fresh lemon juice

2-3 T. warm water

For the salami meat chips:

4 oz. very thinly sliced salami

 

First, preheat the oven to 375. Slice the top off of the head of garlic and place it in a small baking dish. Pour the olive oil on top and let it soak in while the oven preheats. Roast the garlic for 45 minutes. Remove from the oven but keep the oven on. Meanwhile, make the bean dip: squeeze the cloves from the garlic bulb into the bowl of a food processor. Add all remaining ingredients. Pulse until smooth. Use extra warm water to thin it out, if desired. To make the salami chips, lay out the slices of salami on a large baking sheet. It’s fine if they slightly overlap because they will shrink as they cook. Bake at 375 for 9-12 minutes, until the edges start to slightly brown and curl. They will further crisp as they cool. The salami chips stay crispy for up to 2 days.

Olive, Bacon and Cheese Bread

Olive, Bacon and Cheese Bread

Olive, Bacon and Cheese Bread

 

5 fl oz white wine

3 1/3 fl oz olive oil

4 eggs

1/2 tsp. salt

2 1/2 C. all-purpose flour

1 tsp. of baking powder (about 5g)

5 ounces grated swiss cheese or cheddar

1 large onion

3 1/2 ounces bacon

7 ounces cooked ham

3 1/2 ounces black olives

3 1/2 ounces green olives

2 T. chopped parsley

 

In a large bowl, whisk together the wine, oil, eggs and salt. Separately, mix the flour and baking powder, sift and stir into the liquid preparation. Chop the onion finely and melt in a skillet with a bit of olive oil (or butter). Add the bacon to onions and cook for a few minutes then keep aside. Take care of draining the mixture to avoid a soggy dough. Slice the olives and parsley and cut the ham. Add all ingredients and grated cheese to the basic preparation and mix. Pour into a buttered loaf pan, 9 by 5 inches. Bake in the oven for 1 hour at 360°F (180°C).

Italian Lemon Herb Pork Chops

Italian Lemon Herb Pork Chops

Italian Lemon Herb Pork Chops

 

4 bone-in rib pork chops

2 T. butter

1 C. flour

2 eggs beaten

 

1 C. plain breadcrumbs

1 C. panko breadcrumbs

2 T. dried parsley -OR- 4 T. FRESH chopped parsley

2 tsp. garlic powder

1 tsp. onion powder

1/4 tsp. oregano

1 tsp. salt

1/2 tsp. pepper

1/2 C. grated Parmesan or Romano cheese

 

2 T. butter

3 cloves garlic minced

1/2 C. chicken stock/broth

1 C. heavy cream

2 T. lemon juice

2 T. dried parsley -OR- 4 T. FRESH chopped parsley

1/4 tsp. oregano

1/2 C. shredded mozzarella cheese

2 T. shredded Asiago cheese

Salt to taste

Pepper to taste

 

Mix all seasoned bread crumb ingredients in a large bowl. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.  Melt 1 T. of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Dredge the pork chops in the flour, then dip in the beaten egg and the seasoned bread crumb mixture. Brown chops on both sides (I could only brown 2 at a time); remove from pan and place on a rack inserted in a baking sheet. Melt remaining 1 T. butter and repeat. Bake chops in preheated oven for 20 minutes; meanwhile make sauce. In a small saucepan, melt the 2 T. of butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for about 5 minutes. Stir in the stock, lemon juice, oregano and the cream. Heat until it begins to bubble. Add the cheeses and stir until they are melted. If the salt/pepper is needed, add it now. Add the parsley and continue cooking until sauce is reduced about 25% (It should be the consistency of a thinner gravy). Sauce may be poured over the cooked chops or served on the side like a gravy.

Purple Dragon Martini

Purple Dragon Martini

Purple Dragon Martini

3 ounces vodka

1 1/2 ounces cranberry juice

1/2 ounces blue Curacao liqueur

1/2 ounces sweet and sour mix

1/2 ounces of 7-Up

2 to 3 ice cubes

 

In a blender or food processor add all ingredients and blitz for 20 to 30 seconds on high speed. Salt the rim of your martini glass.  Pour and imbibe.

Ocean Breeze Cocktail

Ocean Breeze Cocktail

Ocean Breeze Cocktail

 

2 oz. Coconut Rum

2 second count 7-Up or Sprite

2 oz. Blue Curacao

Ice

Cherry for garnishment

 

Fill a large glass or shaker with ice Pour 2 oz, of Coconut rum, 2 oz, of Blue Curacao, and two second count of sprite. Shake well. Pour into a glass filled with ice

Pinto Beans braised with Bacon & Red Wine

Pinto Beans braised with Bacon & Red Wine

Pinto Beans braised with Bacon & Red Wine

Several ounces to 1/2 lb. smoky bacon, diced

1 large onion, peeled and diced

2 celery stalks, diced

2 carrots, peeled if desired, and diced

4 cloves garlic, minced

2 large sprigs woody herb of your choice (Clark’s recipe calls for rosemary, which is very nice, but I have used thyme and sage to equal success)

1 lb. dried pinto beans, dry OR soaked overnight (soaking overnight will shorten cooking time, though, so read directions carefully before beginning)

1 T. coarse kosher salt, with more to taste

2 C. dry red wine

Good olive oil, for serving (optional)

Coarsely grated parmesan, for serving (optional)

Coarsely ground black pepper or red pepper flakes, for serving (optional)

 

In a large, thick-bottomed pot over medium heat, cook the bacon until some fat is rendered and the bacon is starting to turn golden but is not totally cooked, about 5 minutes. Add onion, celery, and carrots. Cook, stirring occasionally, another five to ten minutes, until onions begin to turn translucent and vegetables begin to turn tender. Add beans to pot, whether dry or soaked overnight (although if beans have been soaked overnight, drain them first). Add the T. of salt. Add 7 or 8 C. of water. For beans soaked overnight, this will just cover them. For dried beans, it will seem a substantial amount of liquid. Bring the beans to a boil, and then reduce to a simmer. For beans soaked overnight, simmer gently for about 45 minutes to one hour. For beans being cooked from dry, simmer gently for 2 to 4 hours. Meanwhile, in a small pot over medium heat, bring the 2 C. wine to a boil. Reduce to a simmer, and simmer until wine is reduced to about one-third and has formed a thin syrup. This takes about 20 minutes. When beans are tender and have begun to give off their starchy, bean-y liquid, remove any branches from woody herbs in your pot and discard them. Add the reduced wine to the pot and stir it to combine. Bring the beans to a simmer again and cook for 10 to 20 minutes more for the flavors to meld. Serve the beans alongside polenta, buttered egg noodles, rice, or potatoes. Pass olive oil, grated parmesan, and black pepper or red pepper flakes for topping. To make ahead, allow beans to cool after adding the red wine. Refrigerate until ready to eat. To heat, gently bring the beans to a simmer on the stovetop before serving.

Classic American Meatloaf

Classic American Meatloaf

Classic American Meatloaf

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for baking dish

1/2 cup finely chopped scallions (white and green parts)

1/4 cup grated carrots

1/4 cup finely chopped onion

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1/2 teaspoon sweet paprika

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 cup ketchup

2 teaspoons gelatin

2 pounds ground beef chuck

1/2 pound ground pork

2 large eggs, beaten

1/2 cup dried bread crumbs

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

Glaze:

1/2 cup ketchup

1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

1/2 teaspoon dry mustard

 

To make the meatloaf: Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. In a small skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the scallions, carrot and onion and cook until softened, about 10 minutes. Add the thyme, cumin, paprika, and garlic and onion powders. Cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Scrape into a large bowl and let cool completely. Meanwhile, heat the ketchup in the microwave until just warm to the touch. Sprinkle the gelatin over the ketchup and whisk to remove clumps. Add to the cooled vegetable mixture, then add the beef, pork, eggs, and bread crumbs. Season with salt and pepper and mix just to combine. Coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with oil and form the meat mixture into a loaf. To make the glaze: In a measuring cup, stir together the ketchup, Worcestershire, and mustard. Brush a little glaze on the meatloaf and bake until the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees F, about 1 hour 15 minutes, brushing three or four times with the glaze until you’ve used it all. Let meatloaf rest at least 15 minutes before slicing.

Watermelon Pops

Watermelon Pops

Watermelon Pops

5 cups chopped fresh watermelon; seeds removed

1 teaspoon mint-infused oil or extract

1 teaspoon orange-infused oil or extract

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

3/4 cup sugar

 

Combine all the ingredients in a blender or food processor. Pour into molds and freeze for at least 6 hours or overnight. Freeze up to 3 months. Store in the molds or release, wrap well in waxed paper, and store in a marked sealable plastic bag.

Kentucky Style Southern Sweet Tea

Kentucky Style Southern Sweet Tea

Kentucky Style Southern Sweet Tea

6 to 8 tea bags

6 cups water

1 cup sugar

2 to 3 oranges, sliced

Sprigs of mint

 

In a large pot, add the tea bags and water. Bring to a rolling boil, remove from the heat, and let steep 5 minutes. Remove the tea bags. Pour the liquid into a gallon jug and add cold water to fill. Add the sugar (you can add more if you want sweeter tea). Add the oranges and mint and stir. Pour over ice and enjoy.

Chicken Thighs with SAUSAGE, RED BEANS, and RICE

Chicken Thighs with SAUSAGE, RED BEANS, and RICE

Chicken Thighs with SAUSAGE, RED BEANS, and RICE

1 onion

1 green bell pepper

2 garlic cloves

1 carrot

1 lb [455 g] boneless, skinless chicken thighs

Seasoned or kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

1 T. olive oil

8 oz [230 g] mild Italian sausage links

1 T. Cajun seasoning or a blend of dried thyme, oregano, paprika, and cayenne pepper

One 15-oz [425-g] can kidney beans, drained and rinsed

One 15-oz [425-g] can diced tomatoes with juice

1 cup [240 ml] chicken broth

1 cup [130 g] instant brown rice

 

On a large cutting board, chop the onion, bell pepper, and garlic and peel and thinly slice the carrot. As you work, transfer the vegetables to a medium bowl. Cut the chicken into bite-size pieces and season with 1/2 tsp of salt and a few grinds of pepper. Heat a 12-in [30.5-cm] skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. When the oil shimmers, add the chicken and brown it for about 3 minutes (if it sticks, give it another minute). Turn and brown the other side for another 3 minutes. Crumble the sausage and add to the pan with the vegetables and add the Cajun seasoning; cook, stirring and breaking up the sausage every now and then, until the vegetables begin to soften, about 4 minutes. Stir in the beans, tomatoes, and broth and 1/2 tsp salt and bring to a boil. Cover reduce the heat to low and cook for about 5 minutes to develop the flavors and soften the vegetables. Stir in the rice, pressing down so that it’s submerged in the liquid. Cover and continue to cook until the rice, meat, and vegetables are tender, about 15 minutes. Taste and season with more salt, pepper, or Cajun seasoning if it needs it. Divide the stew among heated plates and serve hot.  It’s that easy: Cajun seasoning is worth having in your spice cupboard. It has a little heat and usually contains paprika, celery seed, garlic, basil, white pepper, cayenne, thyme, and parsley. Look for it on the grocery shelf with the other spice and herb blends and add it to burgers, stews, and chilis for an easy flavor boost.

 

Bouillon de poulet avec des quenelles de volailles (Chicken dumpling soup)

Bouillon de poulet avec des quenelles de volailles (Chicken dumpling soup)

Bouillon de poulet avec des quenelles de volailles (Chicken dumpling soup)

 

7 oz raw chicken breast

3 1/2 oz white bread, no crusts

6 1/2 T. half-and-half

1 egg plus 1 egg yolk

1 tsp salt

a pinch of pepper

a pinch of nutmeg

 

61/2 cups chicken stock

2 large carrots, roughly chopped

5 button mushrooms, thinly sliced

salt and pepper (if needed)!

1/2 bunch of parsley, leaves roughly chopped

 

Put the first 7 ingredients for the quenelles into a blender and whizz until you have a smooth paste. Form the paste into 20-25 quenelle shapes by using two tablespoons (for smaller quenelles, use two teaspoons). Put the stock and carrots into a large pot. Bring the stock to a boil and boil for 10 minutes. Drop the quenelles into the boiling stock and cook for 5 minutes (3 minutes for the small ones), adding the mushrooms for the last minute. When the quenelles are done, they will rise to the surface. Serve immediately, garnished with some roughly chopped parsley. Depending on the quality of your stock, you may not need to add any salt or pepper. Taste for seasoning before serving.

Forager Spring Greens Soup

Forager Spring Greens Soup

Forager Spring Greens Soup

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

1 medium onion, chopped

2 medium leeks, trimmed and sliced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 medium potato, peeled and diced

6 cups vegetable broth

Zest of 1/2 lemon

1 pound tender spring greens

1 bunch fresh cilantro, trimmed and roughly chopped

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

 

In a large heavy stockpot set over medium heat, warm the oil. Add the onion, leeks, and garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is translucent, 5 to 6 minutes. Add the potato and broth to the pot and bring the soup to a simmer. Adjust the heat to maintain a bare simmer and cook, covered, until the potato is falling-apart tender, about 30 minutes. Add the lemon zest, greens, and cilantro and cook until the greens turn bright and vivid, 1 to 2 minutes. Using an immersion blender, puree the soup to a smooth consistency, or transfer the soup to a blender and very carefully puree the soup in batches before returning it to a clean pot. (If using a blender, vent the lid by removing the center pour cap, place a clean kitchen towel over the lid of the blender, and hold the towel-covered lid down firmly while pureeing.) Season the soup to taste with salt and pepper. Ladle into wide, shallow bowls and serve immediately

Garlicky Tomato Toast

Garlicky Tomato Toast

Garlicky Tomato Toast

3 or 4 very ripe medium tomatoes (about 1 1/2 lb.)

1 pint cherry tomatoes (about 12 ounces)

4 to 6 large slices sturdy sourdough bread, about 1/2-inch thick

4 to 6 garlic cloves, peeled

Salt and pepper

Extra-virgin olive oil

Basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

 

Cut 2 tomatoes in half crosswise. Place a box grater in a shallow bowl and grate the tomato flesh from the cut sides, pushing through the large holes. You should have 1 cup or so of coarse tomato purée. Set purée aside, and discard tomato skins. Cut remaining large tomatoes into 1/4-inch slices. Cut cherry tomatoes in half. Set aside. Toast the bread until nicely browned and crisp. (Toasting over a charcoal grill yields a rich, smoky flavor, but a toaster, toaster oven or broiler works just as well.) With your fingers, rub the top of each toast with a garlic clove. You will see the cloves get smaller as the garlic is dispersed, pushed into the bread. (For a less garlicky toast, press lightly when rubbing.) Place toasts on a platter or individual plates. Spoon and spread a heaping T. of tomato purée over each toast. Then arrange tomato slices and cherry tomatoes randomly on top. Sprinkle generously with salt, pepper and a T. of extra-virgin olive oil per toast. Garnish with whole or torn basil leaves, if using.

 

Succotash

Succotash

Succotash

2 tablespoons (1/4 stick) unsalted butter

1 small red bell pepper, cored, seeded, and diced

1 bunch scallions, white and green parts, chopped (about 1 cup)

1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme

2 cups cooked lima beans

2 cups fresh corn kernels (from about 4 ears of corn)

1/2 cup chicken stock

1/2 cup heavy cream

1/4 cup chopped fresh Italian parsley

Juice of 1/2 lemon

 

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the butter. When the butter is melted, add the bell pepper and scallions and cook, stirring occasionally until wilted, about 4 minutes. Add the thyme and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the lima beans and corn and toss to combine. Pour in the stock and cream and bring to a rapid simmer. Cook until the sauce has thickened and coats the vegetables, about 3 minutes. Stir in the parsley and lemon juice and serve.

Very Green Spaghetti

Very Green Spaghetti

Very Green Spaghetti

5 oz dried spaghetti

4 cloves of garlic

7 oz cavolo nero (Tuscan Kale)

1 oz Parmesan cheese

1 oz ricotta cheese

Cook the pasta in a pan of boiling salted water according to the package instructions. Meanwhile, peel the garlic. Tear the stems out of the cavolo and discard, adding the leaves and the garlic to the pasta pan for 5 minutes. Pour 1 1/2 T. of extra virgin olive oil into a blender, then finely grate in the Parmesan. Use tongs to carefully transfer the cavolo leaves and garlic straight into the blender and blitz for a few minutes until super-smooth. Taste and season to perfection with sea salt and black pepper. Drain the pasta, reserving a cupful of cooking water. Return the pasta to the pan and toss with the vibrant green sauce, loosening with a splash of reserved cooking water, if needed, then divide between your plates. Dot over the ricotta, drizzle with a tiny bit of extra virgin olive oil, and tuck right in.

Healthy Sheet Pan Greek Chicken & Veggies

Healthy Sheet Pan Greek Chicken & Veggies

Healthy Sheet Pan Greek Chicken & Veggies

4 5oz chicken breasts, cut into small cubes

2 cups bell peppers any colors, cut into squares or slices

1 medium red onion cut into squares or slices

1 cup of zucchini broccoli, mushrooms , diced sweet potatoes or plum tomatoes (optional)

 

4 cloves garlic minced

2 T. olive oil

2 T. fresh lemon juice

1 tsp. dried oregano

1 tsp. dried basil or thyme

1 tsp. kosher salt

1/2 tsp. black pepper

 

Pre-Heat oven to 450F. Arrange chicken and veggies on a large sheet pan to create a rainbow pattern.

In a small bowl, combine all the ingredients for the marinade. Brush mixture onto chicken and veggies or toss chicken and veggies in mixture. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until veggies are charred and chicken is tender. Remove from oven and cool for 5 minutes before serving.

 

Serve on rice, quinoa, with pita & tzatziki or alone with a fork.

Sheet Pan Shrimp Boil

Sheet Pan Shrimp Boil

Sheet Pan Shrimp Boil

 

1 lb. baby Dutch yellow potatoes

3 ears corn, each cut crosswise into 6 pieces

1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 T. Old Bay seasoning

1 lb. medium shrimp, peeled and deveined

1 (12.8-ounce) package smoked andouille sausage, thinly sliced

1 lemon, cut into wedges

2 T. chopped fresh parsley leaves

 

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Lightly oil a baking sheet or coat with nonstick spray. In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook potatoes until just tender and parboiled, about 10-13 minutes. Stir in corn during the last 5 minutes of cooking time; drain well. In a small bowl, combine butter, garlic and Old Bay seasoning. Place potatoes, corn, shrimp and sausage in a single layer onto the prepared baking sheet. Stir in butter mixture and gently toss to combine. Place into oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the shrimp are opaque and corn is tender. Serve immediately with lemon wedges, garnished with parsley, if desired.

15-Minute Sheet Pan Beef and Broccoli

15-Minute Sheet Pan Beef and Broccoli

15-Minute Sheet Pan Beef and Broccoli

1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce

4 to 5 cloves garlic, finely minced or pressed

2 to 3 T. honey

2 T. brown sugar, packed

2 T. sesame oil

2 T. rice vinegar

2 to 3 tsp. ground ginger

1 tsp. kosher salt, optional and to taste (soy sauce already has salt)

1 tsp. freshly ground black pepper, or to taste

pinch cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes, optional and to taste

1 to 1.25 pounds flank steak, sliced against the grain in bite size pieces

about 4 to 6 cups broccoli florets

1 T. cornstarch, optional

1 T. cold water, optional

2 to 3 green onions sliced in 1-inch segments on the bias, optional for garnishing

1 T. sesame seeds, optional for garnishing

 

Preheat oven to 425F and line a sheet pan with aluminum foil for easier cleanup; set aside. To a large bowl add the soy sauce, garlic, honey, brown sugar, sesame oil, rice vinegar, ginger, optional salt, pepper, optional cayenne or red pepper flakes, and whisk to combine. Add the steak, stir to combine, and let it marinate for 10 to 15 minutes (if you have time and can marinate for up to 1 hour, even better). Using a tongs or a slotted spoon, transfer the steak to the sheet pan with space in between the pieces; set aside. Add the broccoli (I use 6 cups because we like a lot of broccoli, use less if desired) to the marinade mixture and give it a quick dunk, you just want to moisten it a bit. Using a tongs or a slotted spoon, transfer the broccoli to the sheet pan, and scatter it in between the steak if possible so food isn’t overlapping too much; reserve the marinade. Bake for about 10 to 12 minutes, or until the steak is cooked through and the broccoli is fork-tender. While the food bakes, optionally add the reserved marinade to a small saucepan and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Add the cornstarch and cold water to a small bowl, stir to combine, and all the cornstarch slurry to the boiling saucepan, whisking nearly constantly for 30 seconds or until dissolved. The sauce will get very thick quickly because there’s not much quantity. If desired, add about 1/4 to 1/2 cup water as desired for consistency, whisking until incorporated and smooth. After the beef and broccoli are done, evenly drizzle with the sauce, to taste. Evenly garnish with optional green onions, optional sesame seeds, and serve immediately. Recipe is best fresh but will keep airtight in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Crispy Sheet-Pan Meatballs with Salsa Verde

Crispy Sheet-Pan Meatballs with Salsa Verde

Crispy Sheet-Pan Meatballs with Salsa Verde

2 garlic cloves, divided

2 C. packed mixed herbs, such as parsley, cilantro, basil, and/or dill, divided

3 T. drained capers

¼ C. walnuts

1 large egg

1 T. paprika

2 tsp. kosher salt, plus more

3 T. plus ½ C. extra-virgin olive oil, divided

1 C. panko (Japanese breadcrumbs)

1 lb. ground beef (20% fat)

1 lemon

Freshly ground black pepper

 

Place a rack in center of oven; preheat to 425°. Finely grate 1 garlic clove into a medium bowl. Finely grate 1 more garlic clove into a small bowl. (The medium bowl is for your meatball mixture, and the small bowl is for your salsa verde, in case this part seems silly.) Finely chop 2 C. mixed herbs. As we mentioned in the ingredients list, you can use any combo of soft herbs like parsley, dill, basil, and/or cilantro, but if you’ve only got one that’s cool, too—we just love how green and complex they taste when mixed together. Transfer half to same medium bowl, then transfer remaining herbs to same small bowl. Finely chop 3 T. capers. Transfer 2 T. capers to medium bowl, then transfer remaining 1 T. capers to small bowl. Chop ¼ C. walnuts and add to same medium bowl. If you’ve never added nuts to meatballs, you’re in for a real treat; they lend great texture and flavor to the finished dish. Whisk in 1 egg, 1 T. paprika, 2 tsp. salt, and 1 T. oil to bowl with walnuts. Using clean hands, mix 1 C. panko into egg mixture. Add 1 lb. ground beef and continue to mix gently with your hands until incorporated, but do not overmix. This part is key—if you work the mixture too much, the meat will become tough and springy, almost like sausage, so use a gentle hand. Also: At this point, you can pinch off a little piece of the meatball mixture, crisp it in a skillet, and give it a taste to make sure the seasoning is to your liking. This is your last chance to make any tweaks before they all get cooked! Drizzle 2 T. oil on a rimmed baking sheet. Roll beef mixture into 1½” balls (about the size of golf balls). Arrange 1″ apart on pan. Bake meatballs, shaking pan halfway through, until crispy on all sides, about 10 minutes. One cool thing about using all beef (instead of a beef-pork-veal combo) is that it’s totally fine if the meatballs are a little pink in the middle. While meatballs are cooking, you can finish that salsa verde. This is one of our all-time favorite sauces, and is delicious spooned over just about any piece of meat, roasted veg, or bowl of leftovers you can think of. Which is all to say: Get ready to have a lot more salsa verde in your life from here on out. Finely grate lemon zest into bowl with herbs and garlic. Halve the lemon you just zested and squeeze juice into bowl, using your hand to catch any seeds. (You can use a citrus squeezer for this if you’ve got one.) Add remaining ½ C. oil and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper, taste, and add more seasoning if necessary—it should be good and punchy. Transfer meatballs to a platter, and serve with salsa verde alongside.

Sheet Pan Meatballs and Broccolini

Sheet Pan Meatballs and Broccolini

Sheet Pan Meatballs and Broccolini

1 pound broccolini ends trimmed

2 T. extra virgin olive oil or avocado oil

1 tsp. Magic Mushroom Powder or Diamond Crystal kosher salt

1½ pounds Italian bulk sausage

1½ C. marinara sauce

Heat oven to 425°F or 400°F convection bake with the rack in the middle. On a rimmed baking sheet, toss the broccolini with olive oil and Magic Mushroom Powder. (If you don’t have Magic Mushroom Powder, you can use 1 tsp. of Diamond Crystal kosher salt or ½ tsp. Morton’s kosher salt/fine grain salt).   Arrange the broccolini in a single layer on the rimmed baking sheet. Grab the sausage and roll out some meatballs! (If the sausage is in links, just pierce the casing with a knife to get to release the meat inside.) Scoop out uniform-size balls with a medium disher and roll out about 24 meatballs that are about 1½ inches in diameter. Tuck the meatballs in any open spots between the broccolini on the baking sheet.  Pop the baking sheet in the oven. Roast the sheet pan meatballs and broccolini for a total of 15 to 20 minutes or until the meatballs are cooked through and the broccolini is charred in places. Rotate the tray 180° at the 8 to 10 minute mark to ensure even cooking. While the sheet pan supper is cooking, heat up the marinara sauce in a saucepan on the stovetop or in a glass container in the microwave oven. When the sheet pan meatball supper is ready, take it out of the oven and spoon on the marinara sauce!

Apple & Root Vegetable Hash

Apple & Root Vegetable Hash

Apple & Root Vegetable Hash

 

Coarse salt and freshly ground pepper

3/4 pound celery root, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch pieces (2 C.)

3/4 pound Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch pieces (2 C.)

3/4 pound sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch pieces (2 C.)

1/4 C. extra-virgin olive oil, divided

1 onion, diced

2 small firm, sweet apples, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch pieces (2 1/2 C.)

1/4 C. roughly chopped fresh sage leaves

 

Bring a medium pot of water to a boil, and generously season with salt. Add celery root, and simmer 3 minutes. Add potatoes and sweet potatoes, and simmer vegetables 2 minutes more. Drain well and spread vegetables on a rimmed baking sheet. Let cool 15 minutes. Heat 2 T. oil in a large (preferably cast-iron) skillet over medium-high heat and cook onions until translucent and just beginning to color, about 2 minutes. Add remaining 2 T. oil, the apples, and vegetables; season with salt and pepper. Stir to combine, then press into a single layer using a spatula. Cook, undisturbed, 2 minutes. Stir, and repeat process until vegetables are very tender and beginning to caramelize, 8 to 10 minutes more. Remove from heat. Stir in sage, and season with salt and pepper.

The Fairmont’s Rooftop Honey-Pepper Bacon

The Fairmont’s Rooftop Honey-Pepper Bacon

The Fairmont’s Rooftop Honey-Pepper Bacon

1 pound thick-cut applewood-smoked bacon

1/3 C. high-quality honey

Cracked black pepper

Preheat the oven to 35O°F. Line a large, rimmed baking sheet with foil. Arrange the bacon on the foil in one layer, then drizzle with the honey and season evenly with cracked pepper. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the bacon is crisp. Drain the bacon for 1 to 2 minutes on paper towels, then transfer to a plate and serve immediately.

Slow Cooker Sweet & Spicy Chicken

Slow Cooker Sweet & Spicy Chicken

Slow Cooker Sweet & Spicy Chicken

3 lb. boneless, skinless chicken thighs

1 red bell pepper, seeded and sliced

1 yellow bell pepper, seeded and sliced

3 C. broccoli florets

For the sweet & spicy sauce:

2 C. all-fruit apricot jam

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 T. coconut aminos

2 T. dry mustard

2 tsp. dried minced onion

2 tsp. sea salt

1/2 tsp. ground ginger

1/2 tsp. red pepper flakes (use more for a spicier sauce)

2 T. arrowroot powder (for thickening sauce)

 

 

Cut chicken thighs into bite-size chunks and place into a 6-quart slow cooker. Cut the veggies as noted above. Place in a bowl and refrigerate until ready to use, as noted below. In a medium bowl, whisk together the apricot jam, garlic, soy sauce or coconut aminos, mustard, onion, salt, ginger, and red-pepper flakes. Pour over the chicken. Cover and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours. Check chicken at the 4-hour mark, if it’s not cooked through, continue cooking. Once the chicken is cooked through, add the sliced bell peppers and broccoli florets. Then, continue cooking on low until veggies are al dente (about 30-45 minutes). Use a slotted spoon to remove chicken and veggies from slow cooker and place in a serving dish. Whisk in the arrowroot powder to thicken the sauce, if desired. To serve, ladle the sauce over the chicken and veggies. Serve over basmati rice or cauli-rice.

Prime Rib with Cognac-roasted Vegetables and Crunchy Greens

Prime Rib with Cognac-roasted Vegetables and Crunchy Greens

Prime Rib with Cognac-roasted Vegetables and Crunchy Greens

1 (5-pound) bone-in or (4-pound) boneless prime rib roast

4 large carrots (about 1 pound), peeled and cut into 2-inch sections

1 (3/4-pound) fennel bulb, cut into 8 sections through the core

1 1/2 pounds small red potatoes, halved if large

6 small shallots, peeled

6 garlic cloves, peeled and smashed

1 T. plus 2 tsp. chopped fresh thyme

2 T. plus 2 tsp. extra-virgin olive oil

salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

4 C. chopped winter greens, such as kale, collard greens, or chard (about ¼ pound), ribs removed if large

1⁄3 C. cognac

 

Remove the roast from the refrigerator and let sit at room temperature for 1 hour while you prepare the vegetables and preheat the oven.  Place the carrots, fennel, potatoes, shallots, and garlic cloves in a large roasting pan. Add 2 tsp. of the thyme, 1 T. of the oil, salt and pepper to taste, and mix the ingredients together. Nestle the roast into the center of the vegetables (bone side down, if using a bone-in roast). Coat it with the 2 tsp. oil, then sprinkle with the remaining T. of thyme, salt, and plenty of pepper. Preheat the oven to 450°F. When the oven is hot, roast the beef and vegetables for 20 minutes. Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F and roast for 40 minutes longer. Mix the greens with the remaining T. olive oil, nestle them into the vegetables, then cook for 20 to 30 minutes longer (80 to 90 minutes total) or until the inside of the roast reaches 125°F on an instant-read thermometer for rare—the timing will depend on the shape of your roast. (You’ll want to cook it to 135°F for medium, or 145°F for well-done meat.)  Transfer the roast to a large cutting board and let it rest for 10 minutes. Drizzle the cognac over the vegetables and roast for 10 minutes longer. Cut the meat into thin slices and serve immediately, when the vegetables are piping hot.

Glazed Braised Goat Shanks

Glazed Braised Goat Shanks

Glazed Braised Goat Shanks

4 (l-pound) goat shanks

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

1 large onion, chopped

5 carrots, peeled and chopped

5 stalks celery, chopped

4 garlic cloves, peeled and smashed

Salt

Freshly ground black pepper

3/4 teaspoon dried thyme

1 bay leaf

1 1/2 tablespoons tomato paste

3 C. white wine

2 C. chicken broth

 

Heat a large pot with an ovenproof lid over medium-high heat. Pat the goat shanks dry’. Add the oil to the pot, then two of the shanks, and cook until browned on all sides, turning a few times, about 15 minutes total. Transfer the shanks to a plate and repeat with the remaining shanks. While the shanks sear, preheat the oven to 325°F. Add the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic to the pot; salt and pepper to taste; and cook until the vegetables are soft, stirring often, about 10 minutes. Stir in the thyme, bay leaf, and tomato paste; then add the wine and broth; and bring the mixture to a simmer. Slide the seared goat shanks into the pot, cover, and cook for 2 hours, turning once during braising. Transfer the meat to a large platter and tent with foil. Carefully strain the braising liquid, discarding the solids, and return the liquid to the pot. Bring the liquid to a strong simmer over high heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until the liquid has reduced to the consistency of maple syrup, about 15 minutes. Return the shanks to the pan one at a time, rolling them each in the sauce to coat them, and serve hot, drizzled with the remaining sauce.

Sausage and Potato Casserole

Sausage and Potato Casserole

Sausage and Potato Casserole

2 lbs. Italian Sausage, cut into links

2 – 3 pounds red potatoes or russets, scrubbed and cut into bite-sized pieces (If you use russets, I recommend peeling them.)

2 red onions, sliced

4 Tbsp. olive oil

2 tsp. kosher salt

1 tsp. ground black pepper

2 tsp. Italian seasoning

 

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Combine sausage, potatoes, onions, olive oil, salt, pepper and Italian seasoning in a 13×9 casserole dish. Bake for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature of the sausage is 160 degrees F and is no longer pink.

Fruit and Cream Cheese Breakfast Pastries

Fruit and Cream Cheese Breakfast Pastries

Fruit and Cream Cheese Breakfast Pastries

6 ounces cream cheese, at room temp

2 Tablespoons sugar

2 teaspoons lemon juice

1 teaspoon lemon zest

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 (17.3-oz.) package frozen puff pastry (2 sheets), thawed

1 1/2 cups fruit (See Kelly’s Note)

1 large egg

Sanding sugar (optional)

Preheat the oven to 400°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper or Silpats. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the cream cheese with the sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest and vanilla extract until creamy. Unfold the puff pastry sheets onto a lightly floured work surface. Lightly roll the pastry with a rolling pin to seal the perforations. Using a 4-inch round cookie cutter (or glass), cut out four circles from each sheet of puff pastry. Transfer four pastry circles onto each baking sheet, spacing the circles about 2 inches apart. Lightly score a circular border 1/4-inch from the edges then prick the centers of each pastry with a fork. Spread a portion of the cream cheese mixture inside the border of each pastry then top the cream cheese with fruit. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg with 1 tablespoon water. Brush the edges of the pastries with the egg wash then sprinkle them with the sanding sugar (optional). Bake the pastries for 15 to 18 minutes or until they’re golden and puffed. Remove the pastries from the oven and allow them to cool for 5 minutes on the baking sheets before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.  Any type of fruit will work for these breakfast pastries. Opt for your favorite flavors or whatever is in season, such as strawberries, raspberries, peaches, plums, apples or pears.

LTS Chicken Tortellini Soup

LTS Chicken Tortellini Soup

LTS Chicken Tortellini Soup

1 package Dried Tortellini

1 tsp. dehydrated Garlic (powder, flakes or minces)

½ C. dehydrated Onion

4-6 C. Chicken Broth (or Water + Bouillon)

1 tsp. tomato paste (You can use the whole can if it’s not possible to reserve it for another use.  Use 5-6 C. stock, not 4)

1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce

1 to 2 tsp. sugar, to taste

1-2 cans Chicken

1 tsp. dried basil

1 tsp. dried parsley

1/2 tsp. dried oregano

1/2 tsp. dried thyme

1/2 tsp. garlic powder

1/2 tsp. onion powder

1/4 tsp. fennel seeds, crushed

Salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Parmesan Cheese

Fresh Basil, Parsley, or Thyme, for garnish, if available

 

Simmer tortellini with garlic and onion in broth until tortellini is not quite yet al dente.  Add tomato paste, marinara and sugar and stir until incorporated and heated through; the tortellini should be at the texture that you like before continuing.  Stir in chicken (undrained), and all herbs and spices.  Simmer just to heat chicken and serve.  In garden season, wilting spinach or other dark leafy green into this soup is lovely

Open Face Steak Sandwich with Onions & BBQ Sauce

Open Face Steak Sandwich with Onions & BBQ Sauce

Open Face Steak Sandwich with Onions & BBQ Sauce

2 ½ lb. piece hanger steak, at room temperature

For drizzling: olive oil

2 ciabatta rolls, halved horizontally

2 Spanish onions, thickly sliced

2 vine-ripened tomatoes, thickly sliced

To serve: good-quality mayonnaise

1 cup (loosely packed) wild rocket

 

Barbecue sauce

 

2-3 T. butter, coarsely chopped

2 onions, finely chopped

2 garlic cloves, finely chopped

½ C. Kentucky bourbon

1 ½ C. tomato sauce

1 C. each tomato passata and cider vinegar

¾ C. brown sugar

1/3 C. Worcestershire sauce

¼ C. molasses

3 canned chipotle chilies in adobo

1 T. chipotle Tabasco

Juice of 1 lemon

 

For barbecue sauce, heat butter in a large saucepan over low heat, add onion and garlic and stir occasionally until very tender (10-15 minutes). Increase heat to medium, add bourbon, bring to the simmer, then add remaining ingredients except lemon juice. Reduce heat to low and stir occasionally until thick and dark (45-50 minutes). Add juice, season to taste, pour into sterile containers or jars, seal and refrigerate to cool. Makes about 1 litre. Barbecue sauce will keep refrigerated for 3 weeks in a sterile airtight container. Preheat a barbecue to medium heat. Drizzle steak with a little olive oil, season to taste and barbecue, turning frequently, until cooked to your liking (15-20 minutes for medium-rare). Set aside to rest for 10 minutes then thickly slice. Meanwhile, drizzle cut sides of ciabatta with a little oil, season to taste, grill on barbecue until toasted (1-2 minutes), set aside.  Drizzle onion with a little oil, season to taste and barbecue on the flat plate, stirring occasionally, until tender (5-10 minutes).  Spread cut-sides of ciabatta with mayonnaise, divide steak among ciabatta, top with tomato, onion and rocket, season to taste and serve with barbecue sauce.

Zucchini Pancakes with Blossoms and Basil

Zucchini Pancakes with Blossoms and Basil

Zucchini Pancakes with Blossoms and Basil

1 cup unbleached all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon kosher salt

½ teaspoon baking soda

1 cup water

1 egg, beaten

1 cup grated green zucchini, from 1 medium zucchini (about ½ pound)

¼ cup packed fresh basil, very thinly sliced

3 tablespoons canola oil

4 zucchini blossoms

 

Whisk the flour, salt, and baking soda together in a medium bowl. Add the water and egg and whisk until just combined. Add the zucchini and basil and stir together gently with a spoon.  Heat 2 tablespoons of the oil in a small (8- or 9-inch) nonstick pan over medium heat until it shimmers. Add about half the batter (1 heaping cup) and spread it evenly into the pan. Cook until browned on the bottom side, 4 to 5 minutes. While the pancake cooks, break two of the zucchini blossoms apart into distinct petals. Place the petals in a flower pattern on the raw side of the batter, then flip the pancake over with a large spatula. Cook until puffed and evenly browned, 3 to 4 minutes longer. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate and add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the pan. Repeat with the remaining ingredients.  Serve the pancakes piping hot, cut into eight pieces each. Note: You can reheat the pancakes in the microwave or on the stovetop, but they’re best fresh from the pan.

Muffin Tin Eggs Benedict Casserole Cups

Muffin Tin Eggs Benedict Casserole Cups

Muffin Tin Eggs Benedict Casserole Cups

12 oz of Canadian bacon, diced

6 English Muffins, split and cut into cubes

4 eggs

1 C. whole milk

1/2 tsp. onion powder

1/4 tsp. paprika

 

3 large egg yolks

1/4 tsp. Dijon mustard

1 tsp. fresh lemon juice

1/8 tsp. cayenne pepper

1/2 tsp. salt

1/8 tsp. ground black pepper

1/2 C. unsalted butter, melted

 

Grease a standard 12-C. muffin pan. Fill each muffin C. with several bread cubes, pressing into the bottom. Sprinkle diced Canadian bacon among the cups. Fill all the space in each C. with the remaining bread cubes. They should be packed fairly tight. In a mixing bowl, whisk eggs, milk and onion powder. Pour the mixture evenly over the 12 cups. Press the bread to help soak in the eggs. Continue to fill the cups until all the liquid is used. Cover with foil and place in the refrigerator overnight. The next morning, preheat the oven to 375°F. Remove casserole C. from the refrigerator and uncover. Sprinkle paprika on top of the C. and return the foil. Bake at 375°F, covered for 35 minutes. Uncover and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until a knife, inserted in the middle, conies out clean. Once the casserole C. are ready to serve, prepare the hollandaise. In a blender, combine all egg yolks, mustard, lemon juice, cayenne, and pepper. Cover and blend until well combined, about 5 seconds. Melt butter in a microwave safe spouted measuring cup for about 1 minute. With the blender on high speed, very slowly pour butter into the blender. The mixture will thicken quickly. Serve immediately.

Sheet Pan Orange Chicken with Garlicky Green Beans

Sheet Pan Orange Chicken with Garlicky Green Beans

Sheet Pan Orange Chicken with Garlicky Green Beans

8 (6-oz.) bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

1 1/2 tablespoons canola oil, divided

1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, divided

3/4 teaspoons black pepper, divided

3/4 cup orange marmalade

1 1/2 tablespoons soy sauce

1 1/2 tablespoons rice vinegar

1 teaspoon hot mustard

1/2 teaspoon toasted sesame oil

8 ounces haricots verts (French green beans), trimmed

2 teaspoons Asian chili-garlic sauce

 

Preheat oven to 400°F. Rub chicken thighs with 1/2 tablespoon of the canola oil, and place on an aluminum foil-lined sheet pan or rimmed baking sheet. Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of the salt and 1/2 teaspoon of the pepper. Bake in preheated oven until a meat thermometer inserted in the thickest portion of chicken registers 165°F, about 35 minutes.  Meanwhile, stir together orange marmalade, soy sauce, vinegar, mustard, and sesame oil in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium, and cook, stirring often, until slightly thickened and reduced to about 1/2 cup, about 8 minutes. Set aside. Toss green beans with chili-garlic sauce and remaining 1 tablespoon canola oil, 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper in a large bowl. Increase oven temperature to broil. Brush orange marmalade mixture on chicken thighs, and spread green beans around chicken. Broil until green beans are tender and chicken is browned and glazed, about 3 minutes.

Jumbo Breakfast Cookies

Jumbo Breakfast Cookies

Jumbo Breakfast Cookies

1 1⁄4 C. sugar

1⁄2 C. butter

1⁄2 C. peanut butter

1⁄4 C. water

1 tsp. vanilla

1 egg

1 1⁄2 C. whole wheat flour or 1 1⁄2 C. all-purpose flour

1 C. old fashioned oats or 1 C. quick-cooking oats

1 C. raisins

1⁄2 tsp. salt

1⁄2 tsp. baking soda

4 C. Cheerios toasted oat cereal

 

Heat oven to 375°. Stir together sugar, butter, peanut butter, water, vanilla and egg in large bowl. Stir in remaining ingredients except cereal. Gently stir in cereal. Drop dough by rounded 1/3 cupfuls 4 inches apart onto ungreased large cookie sheet. Flatten dough to about 1 inch thick.

Bake right away (do not chill) 13 to 15 minutes or until golden brown. Let stand 5 minutes before removing from cookie sheet. Store loosely covered.

One Pan Pasta with Bacon & Peas

One Pan Pasta with Bacon & Peas

One Pan Pasta with Bacon & Peas

8 oz bacon, diced

3/4 C. diced onion

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 1/2 C. chicken broth

1/2 C. milk

8 oz dry penne pasta

1 C. frozen peas

1/2 C. sour cream

salt and pepper

grated Parmesan, for serving

 

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon to a paper towel lined plate. Drain all but about 2 tsp. of the bacon grease in the skillet. To the hot bacon grease, add the onion and cook until softened, about 5-8 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute. Pour in the chicken broth and the milk, and bring to a boil. Once the liquid is boiling, add the dry pasta and reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the skillet and allow the pasta to cook until al dente, about 15 minutes. Once the pasta is cooked, add the peas and continue to cook until they have defrosted. Stir in the sour cream and the reserved bacon. Taste and season to taste with salt and pepper. Serve immediately, topped with parmesan cheese.

Homemade Stroganoff Hamburger Helper

Homemade Stroganoff Hamburger Helper

Homemade Stroganoff Hamburger Helper

1 lb ground beef

1 medium sweet onion, diced

8 oz crimini mushrooms, sliced

1 tsp. kosher salt

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 tsp. paprika

1 tsp. dried thyme

1 tsp. ground black pepper

4 C. low sodium beef or chicken broth

12 oz. egg noodles

1/2 C. sour cream

1/2 C. chopped parsley

 

Heat large deep skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking up the beef with a spoon as it cooks, until it is browned and cooked through, about 5 minutes. Remove the beef to a bowl, leaving the fat in the pan. Add the onion, mushrooms, and salt and cook until the mushrooms are tender and the onion is translucent, 4-5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook until fragrant, 30-60 seconds. Sprinkle the paprika, thyme, and pepper over the top and stir to combine.  Pour in the broth and scrape up any bits stuck to the pan. Add the pasta. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and continue to cook, stirring often, until the pasta is al dente, about 10 minutes. Return the reserved ground beef to the pan and stir through until warm, about a minute. Remove from heat and stir in sour cream and parsley. Serve immediately.

Pigs in a Blanket Bites

Pigs in a Blanket Bites

Pigs in a Blanket Bites

 

Sheet puff pastry (1/2 of a 17.3 oz package)

all purpose flour, for rolling out

1 large egg

1 tsp. water

18 ounces fully cooked andouille sausage (6 sausages)

2 tsp. yellow mustard seeds

2 tsp. fine cornmeal

Creole mustard, for serving

 

Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking liner. Lightly dust a work surface with flour. Roll the puff pastry into a 12×12-inch square. Brush away any excess flour. Cut the square into half horizontally, then in thirds vertically to make 6 4×6-inch rectangles. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water. Brush the rectangles with the egg wash. Place one sausage along the long end of the rectangle, (don’t worry if the ends stick out), and roll the pastry around the sausage. Press the edge to seal. Place on the prepared pan. Repeat with the remaining sausages and rectangles. Set aside the remaining egg wash and refrigerate the sausages for 30 minutes, or up to overnight. Preheat the oven to 400F. Combine the mustard seeds and cornmeal in a shallow baking dish. Working with 1 roll at a time, brush the outside of the pastry with the egg wash. Roll in the seed-cornmeal mixture. Repeat with the remaining sausages. (If the pastry becomes warm or soft, return to the refrigerator for a few minutes.) Using a sharp knife, cut off any ends of the sausages that stick out of the ends. Cut each roll into 6 pieces. If using skewers or toothpicks, insert into the pieces and arrange on the baking sheet, alternating the orientation so the skewers don’t touch the pastry as it expands while baking. Bake for 10 minutes, then flip. Continue cooking until golden brown, 8 to 10 minutes more. Remove to a rack to cool slightly before serving. Serve warm with the Creole mustard for dipping.