Soft Pretzel Twists

Soft Pretzel Twists

Soft Pretzel Twists

Pretzel Dough:

1½ C. warm water

1 T. sugar

2 tsp. sea salt

2¼ tsp. instant yeast

4½ C. flour

¼ C. (1/2 a stick) butter, melted

8 C. water

½ C. baking soda

1 egg, lightly beaten

.

Garlic Parmesan:

5 cloves garlic, crushed

3 T. butter, melted

3 T. grated Parmesan cheese

.

Cinnamon Sugar:

1 T. cinnamon mixed with 4 T. sugar

3 T. butter, melted

.

Everything:

4 tsp. poppy seeds.

4 tsp. sesame seeds.

4 tsp. dried garlic

4 tsp. dried onion

1 tsp. sea salt

.

Sea Salt & Rosemary:

3 T. fresh rosemary

3 T. sea salt

.

Pepperoni Pizza:

Mini pepperoni, sliced thin

Mozzarella cheese, sliced thin

 

Preheat oven to 200°F. To make the dough: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the dough hook, mix together warm water, sugar, salt and yeast; let sit for 5 minutes until frothy. Add the flour and butter and mix on low speed until dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl, approximately 5 minutes. Transfer dough to a lightly oiled bowl, cover with aluminum foil, and place in the oven. TURN OVEN OFF. Let the dough rise in the warm oven for about 1 hour until it has doubled in size. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and divide into 10 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a 16-inch rope, fold it in half, twist end over end, and shape into a circle, pinching the ends together. Preheat the oven to 425°. Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper; set aside. Bring 8 C. of water and baking soda to a boil in a large pot. Using a flat spatula, drop the pretzel twists into the boiling water and boil for 45 seconds. Depending on the size of your pot you may need to boil one at a time. Remove twists from the water and brush lightly with the beaten egg. Proceed with your topping of choice.

 

Garlic Parmesan topping: Spread the garlic over the tops of the pretzels, then sprinkle lightly with Parmesan. Bake for 12-14 minutes, until golden and puffed. Remove from oven and brush a bit of melted butter over the tops, then sprinkle with more Parmesan. Serve warm.

 

Cinnamon Sugar topping: Bake pretzels for 12-14 minutes, until golden and puffed. Remove from oven and brush lightly with melted butter, then generously cover with cinnamon sugar mixture. Serve warm.

 

Everything topping: Mix the poppy seeds, sesame seeds, dried garlic, dried onion, and salt, then sprinkle over top of the pretzels. Bake for 12-14 minutes, until browned. Serve warm.

 

Sea Salt & Rosemary topping: Sprinkle rosemary and sea salt over the pretzels. Bake 12-14 minutes, until golden and puffed. Serve warm.

 

Pepperoni Pizza topping: Place the pepperoni and mozzarella slices on the pretzel tops, making sure to get some in all the cervices. Bake 12-14 minutes, until golden and puffed. Serve warm.

Balsamic Garlic Grilled Mushroom Skewers

Balsamic Garlic Grilled Mushroom Skewers

Balsamic Garlic Grilled Mushroom Skewers

2 lb. mushrooms, sliced 1/4 inch thick

2 T. balsamic vinegar

1 T. soy sauce (or tamari)

3 cloves garlic, chopped

1/2 tsp. thyme, chopped

salt and pepper to taste

Marinate the mushrooms in the mixture of the remaining ingredients for 30 minutes. Skewer the mushrooms and grill over medium-high heat until just tender and slightly charred, about 2-3 minutes per side.

Smashed Blackberry & Goat Cheese

Smashed Blackberry & Goat Cheese

Smashed Blackberry & Goat Cheese

 

1 1/2 C. blackberries

1/2 C. blueberries

1 tsp. vanilla

1 1/2 T. sugar

3 T.s water

1 – 2 tsp. cornstarch, sifted (for thickness to your taste)

8 oz challah bread, sliced (or your bread of choice!)

4 oz goat cheese

fresh mint to garnish

 

In a medium-sized saucepan combine the blackberries, blueberries, vanilla, sugar, and water (covered) over a medium low flame. Once simmering and the fruit begins to burst (about 5 minutes) gently mash with a fork or potato masher, then whisk in the cornstarch until well incorporated. Cover once more and simmer over a low flame until needed. Meanwhile, toast the challah bread as desired — I recommend extra crispy. When ready, smear each slice of challah bread with a thick layer of goat cheese, then spoon over with the smashed blackberries. Garnish with mint, then eat!

Forager’s Soup

Forager’s Soup

Forager’s Soup

50g butter or 4T. olive oil

1 medium onion, diced

150g/3oz or two medium potatoes, diced

600ml/1 pint vegetable or chicken stock

600ml/1 pint creamy full fat milk

250g/9oz well washed and chopped wild greens (plus leaves you want to use up).  Nettles tips, wild garlic, wild sorrel, rocket, nasturtium leaves, young dandelions, young ground elder leaves, spinach, watercress are all good examples

salt and pepper

Garnish – finely shredded wild garlic leaves/wild garlic flowers in season/fried bacon lardons/fried diced chorizo and oil/creme fraiche

 

Melt the butter/oil in a large pan over a gentle heat Add potato and onion and stir to coat well. Season with salt and pepper.  Cover with scrunched up baking parchment or a butter wrapper and put on pan lid. Sweat the vegetables over a low heat for 10-15 mins till soft but not colored Remove the paper lid and add stock and milk. Bring back to the boil and simmer for a further 15 mins until potatoes and onions are fully cooked Add the greens and boil uncovered for 3 mins until greens are just cooked taking care not to overdo it or soup will lose its vibrant green color

Puree the soup with/in a blender. Taste and adjust the seasoning. Garnish as required and serve with crusty bread

One Pan Roasted Garlic Potatoes, Asparagus, and Sausage

One Pan Roasted Garlic Potatoes, Asparagus, and Sausage

One Pan Roasted Garlic Potatoes, Asparagus, and Sausage

1 lb. baby red potatoes

8 ounces (1/2 of a 16-ounce bag) petite baby carrots

1 tsp. of EACH dried basil, dried thyme, dried oregano, and paprika

1/2 tsp. onion powder

Salt and cracked pepper

1/4 C. olive oil separated

8 ounces (2 C.) asparagus

1/2 large yellow onion

1 package (13 ounces) skinless smoked sausage (we use turkey sausage)

1 T. minced garlic

1/3 C. freshly grated Parmesan

Optional: fresh parsley

 

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Line a very large sheet pan with parchment paper or foil for easier clean-up (optional). Halve the baby red potatoes (or cube if they are larger). In a small bowl, mix together all of the seasonings: the dried basil, thyme, oregano, paprika, onion powder, and salt + pepper (I use a heaping 1/4 tsp. of salt and pepper). Mix together. Place the halved red potatoes and baby carrots on the sheet pan. Pour 2 T. olive oil and half of the seasoning mix on top. Toss to combine and place in the oven for 20 minutes. Meanwhile, prepare the asparagus by trimming the ends and cutting into 2 inch pieces. Thinly slice the yellow onion. Coin the sausage. Remove the potatoes and carrots from the oven and using a spatula push them to one side of the pan. On the other side add in the chopped asparagus, sliced onion, sausage, and minced garlic. Add the remaining 2 T. olive oil and remaining seasoning mix. Toss to combine and then toss those ingredients with the potatoes and carrots. Bake for another 10-15 minutes or until veggies are roasted to your desired preference. Top the dish with freshly grated parmesan and fresh parsley as desired. Enjoy immediately.

Porri al Forno (Leeks Baked in Cream)

Porri al Forno (Leeks Baked in Cream)

Porri al Forno (Leeks Baked in Cream)

1½ lb. leeks, about 4 large stalks, green part removed

2 C. heavy cream

1½ C. grated Parmesan

Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

 

Heat oven to 425°F. Cut leeks crosswise into 1½ inch rounds. You should have enough to pack closely into a 9 x 13 inch baking dish. Leeks will shrink during baking; if necessary, add more leeks to ensure a tight fit. In a bowl, toss together leeks, heavy cream, and 1 C. Parmesan; season with salt and pepper. Transfer and arrange in baking dish, cut sides up. Cover with foil and bake for 60 minutes. Remove foil, and sprinkle with remaining Parmesan. Finish baking until leeks are tender and browned, about 20 minutes.

Cherry Tomato and Parmesan Galettes

Cherry Tomato and Parmesan Galettes

Cherry Tomato and Parmesan Galettes

10½ ounces puff pastry

Dijon mustard

2 C. cherry tomatoes, halved

1 medium egg yolk beaten with 1 T. water (egg wash)

sea salt and black pepper, to taste

¼ heaping C. finely shaved Parmesan

extra virgin olive oil

 

Preheat the oven to 425°F. Thinly roll out the pastry on a lightly floured work surface—you can do this half at a time if it’s easier—and cut out six 4½-inch circles using a bowl or plate as a guide. Arrange these on a couple of cookie sheets. Spread a bit of Dijon mustard in the center of each circle, to within about ¾ inch of the rim. Place the tomatoes on top. Brush the surrounding rim with the eggwash, then season the tomatoes, cover with a few slivers of Parmesan, and drizzle over some olive oil. Bake in the oven for 15 to 20 minutes, until golden and risen.

Low Carb Ham, Egg & Cheese Roll-Ups

Low Carb Ham, Egg & Cheese Roll-Ups

Low Carb Ham, Egg & Cheese Roll-Ups

10 eggs

2 tsp. garlic powder

kosher salt

Freshly ground black pepper

2 T. butter

1 1/2 c. shredded Cheddar

1 c. baby spinach

1 c. chopped tomatoes

20 slices ham

 

Heat broiler. In a large bowl, crack eggs. Whisk together with garlic powder and season with salt and pepper. In a large nonstick skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add eggs and scramble, stirring occasionally, 3 minutes. Stir in cheddar until melted, then stir in baby spinach and tomatoes until combined. On a cutting board, place two slices of ham. Top with a big spoonful of scrambled eggs and roll up. Repeat with remaining ham and scrambled eggs. Place roll-ups in a shallow baking dish and broil until ham is crispy, 5 minutes.

Sheet Pan Teriyaki Chicken with Vegetables

Sheet Pan Teriyaki Chicken with Vegetables

Sheet Pan Teriyaki Chicken with Vegetables

 

1 C. low sodium soy sauce

4-5 T. honey depending on how sweet you like it

3 1/2 T. rice wine vinegar

1 1/2 tsp. sesame oil plus more for drizzling on vegetables

3 garlic cloves minced

3/4 tsp. grated ginger

1 T. cornstarch

1/4 C. water

Salt and black pepper to taste

3 boneless skinless chicken breasts cut in half lengthwise (about 1 1/2 lb.)

3 C. broccoli florets about 2 bunches

1 C. sliced carrots

Additional vegetables optional

1/4 C. edamame beans 1/4 C. pineapple chunks

Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish

 

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, whisk together soy sauce, honey, vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, cornstarch and water until combined. Bring to a simmer, stirring frequently, until sauce thickens and bubbles. Remove from heat and set aside. For the chicken and vegetables Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper or foil coated with cooking spray and set aside. Season each side of the chicken with salt and black pepper then drizzle spoonfuls of glaze over the chicken coating well on both sides. Reserve at least half of the glaze for later. Cook in preheated oven for 20 minutes then remove the pan. Top chicken with additional glaze, flip chicken and glaze again. Arrange the broccoli florets, carrots, edamame and pineapples in a single layer around the chicken. Season with black pepper and drizzle with 1/4 tsp. of sesame oil and teriyaki glaze and toss to coat. Return to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and juices run clear. ** Remove pan from oven, slice chicken into strips and drizzle with remaining sauce. Serve over rice or quinoa and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds, if desired. *If chicken is not done after 20 minutes, remove vegetables from pan first then return the chicken back to the oven until cooked through. Cooking time may vary slightly depending on how thick your chicken pieces are.

Butternut Squash & Sausage Stuffed Shells

Butternut Squash & Sausage Stuffed Shells

Butternut Squash & Sausage Stuffed Shells

1 butternut squash, peeled and cubed

1 onion, sliced

¾ C. milk

¾ C. vegetable broth

1 lb. sausage

2 C. spinach

3 cloves garlic

1 lb. jumbo shells, cooked al dente

15 ounces ricotta

1 egg

¼ C. parmesan, shredded

Additional parmesan, shredded

Olive oil

Salt & pepper

 

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Arrange onion and butternut squash in an even layer on a lined baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt & pepper. Roast for 40 minutes. Meanwhile, cook sausage over medium heat. When sausage is mostly browned, add spinach and garlic. Cook until spinach is wilted and remove from heat. Place roasted butternut squash and onion in a food processor. Pulse until a smooth puree forms. Allow to cool. Stir in milk and vegetable broth. Pour butternut squash sauce into base of a 9×13 baking dish. In a large mixing bowl, stir together ricotta, parmesan, and egg. Add sausage and spinach into ricotta and stir until evenly distributed. Fill cooked pasta shells with 3-4 T. of filling. Arrange shells in butternut squash sauce in the 9×13 baking dish. Bake for 30 minutes covered with aluminum foil followed by 15 minutes uncovered. Top with additional parmesan.

Sautéed Spinach, mushrooms, and caramelized onions

Sautéed Spinach, mushrooms, and caramelized onions

Sautéed Spinach, mushrooms, and caramelized onions

Caramelized onions

1 T. olive oil

3 onions, medium or large, sliced

pinch of salt

1 T. balsamic vinegar

Cooked mushrooms and spinach:

1 T. olive oil

8 oz mushrooms, sliced (such as button mushrooms, shiitake, etc.)

3 garlic cloves, minced

pinch of salt

6 oz spinach, fresh

Optional cream sauce

1/3 C. heavy cream

1/4 C. milk

1/2 C. Parmesan cheese shredded

1/4 tsp. salt

 

Heat 1 T. olive oil on high heat in a large skillet, when oil is heated, add sliced onions and cook on high heat for about 10 minutes, constantly stirring with spatula. The onions should start to brown, but without burning (a couple of onions may be burnt here and there, but overall they should not be charred). Reduce heat to medium and continue cooking onions for 10 more minutes, continuing to stir, as onions brown even more without burning. At this point add just a pinch of salt over onions. Continue cooking for 10 more minutes on medium or low heat, stirring occasionally to make sure onions don’t stick to the bottom of the pan or burn. Total you should have cooked onions for 30 minutes. Remove from heat and sprinkle onions with a small amount of balsamic vinegar to deglaze the pan. Using spatula, mix the onions, scraping the bottom of the pan and coating onions with a pinch of balsamic vinegar you just added.

 

After you have started cooking onions, heat 1 T. olive oil in another pan, and add sliced mushrooms (I used shiitake with stems removed, you can use any small sized mushrooms) and minced garlic. Add just a pinch of salt. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook mushrooms and garlic covered for about 20 minutes, occasionally stirring. Add cooked mushrooms to the pan with caramelized onions, add 3 C. of spinach and stir on low heat just until spinach wilts. Serve as is as a side dish or proceed to make a creamy sauce as below.

 

Add heavy cream, milk, Parmesan cheese and 1/4 tsp. salt to the mushroom-onions-spinach mixture on medium-low heat and mix. Stir to coat on low heat for about 5-10 minutes until Parmesan cheese melts and starts to coat the vegetables. Serve as a side dish along grilled meats.

Scrumptious Garlic Scallops

Scrumptious Garlic Scallops

Scrumptious Garlic Scallops

 

1 lb. large scallops

1/4 c clarified butter ghee

5 cloves garlic grated

1 large lemon zested

1/4 c Italian parsley roughly chopped

1/2 tsp. sea salt + more to taste

1/4 tsp. peppercorn medley freshly ground

1/4 tsp. red pepper flakes

A pinch of sweet paprika

1 tsp. extra virgin olive oil

 

Make sure to pat dry the scallops on paper towels very well before cooking., Heat up a large cast iron skillet on medium flame. Meanwhile in a medium bowl toss the scallops with a drizzle of olive oil or butter ghee, just enough to coat it all over. Sprinkle them with the sea salt, cracked pepper, red pepper flakes and sweet paprika. Toss to coat gently. Add a little drizzle of butter ghee to the hot skillet, just enough to coat the bottom. Add the scallops making sure not to overcrowd the pan, and sear for about 2 minutes on each side until nicely golden. (Use a small spatula to flip them over individually) Add the butter ghee to the skillet with the scallops and then add the garlic. Remove from heat and using a spatula push the garlic around to infuse the sauce for about 30 seconds. The heat from the skillet will be enough for the garlic to work its magic into the butter. This is how you avoid that pungent burnt garlicky taste we don’t like.

We are just looking to extract all that sweetness from the garlic, and this is how you do it, without burning. Squeeze half of the lemon all over the scallops and move the skillet around a little so it combines with the butter. Sprinkle with the minced parsley, lemon zest and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Serve with crusty bread or al dente capellini noodles. If serving with capellini noodles, make about 1/4 lb. per person, and stretch the sauce with some of the pasta water the noodles cooked in.

Rhubarb Mint Coolers

Rhubarb Mint Coolers

Rhubarb Mint Coolers

 

1 pound trimmed rhubarb

5 C. water

1 C. sugar

1/4 C. packed fresh mint leaves

Garnish: fresh mint sprigs

 

Cut rhubarb into 1/4-inch pieces and, in a saucepan, bring to a boil with water, sugar, and mint leaves. Simmer mixture, stirring occasionally, 15 minutes (rhubarb will disintegrate) and cool 15 minutes. Pour mixture through a fine sieve into a pitcher, pressing hard on solids. Chill mixture, covered, until cold, about 3 hours, and up to 2 days. Serve coolers over ice in glasses, garnished with mint sprigs.

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.