Goat Cheese Ice Cream with Dried Cherries in Anisette

Goat Cheese Ice Cream with Dried Cherries in Anisette

Goat Cheese Ice Cream with Dried Cherries in Anisette

 

5 large egg yolks

2/3 cup granulated sugar

2 1/2 cups heavy cream

8 oz. soft goat cheese, crumbled

3 oz. dried cherries

4 oz. anisette

 

In a large bowl, mix the egg yolks and sugar until combined. (Save the leftover egg whites in the freezer for macaroons or pavlovas.) Pour the cream into a small saucepan and heat it over medium heat. As soon as it comes to a boil, remove the pan from the heat. Gradually whisk about 1/2 cup of the hot cream into the egg mixture to temper the eggs and prevent them from scrambling. Slowly whisk the egg mixture into the pot of cream. Heat the mixture over medium-low heat for about 5 minutes, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon, until it thickens enough to coat the back of the spoon. Do not let it boil. Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the goat cheese. Let cool completely. Freeze in an ice cream maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Pour into a container and freeze until scoopable, 6 to 8 hours. For the cherry topping, simmer the dried cherries in the anisette in a small saucepan for 4 to 5 minutes, or until the cherries are soft and the liquid is reduced to a syrup. Remove from the heat and chill until cold. (I like the resulting subtle anise flavor, but for a stronger hit, add a splash of anisette off the heat.) Serve a scoop of ice cream with a tablespoon or two of cherries and syrup drizzled over the top.

Easy Fried Halloumi Recipe with Warmed Honey

Easy Fried Halloumi Recipe with Warmed Honey

Easy Fried Halloumi Recipe with Warmed Honey

 

extra virgin olive oil

8 ounces Halloumi cheese, pat dry and cut into ½-inch sticks

¼ cup honey

2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds

crushed red pepper flakes (I used Aleppo pepper)

 

In a non-stick pan, heat 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil over medium-high heat.

When the oil is hot and shimmering, add the halloumi sticks in one single layer, making sure not to crowd the pan. Cook for 1 to 2 minute on one side, until a golden brown crust forms. Using a pair of tongs, turn over and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes watching for that beautiful crust to form. Meanwhile, warm your honey either in a skillet or put your tightly-closed jar in warm water to help the honey loosen a bit. Transfer the fried halloumi to a serving plate and sprinkle with sesame seeds and a dash of red chili flakes or Aleppo pepper. Drizzle with the warmed honey all over (serve unused honey in a small bowl to the side). If you like, arrange some fruit such as grapes, figs, or berries on the same platter around the cheese. Serve immediately!

Crusty Dutch Oven Bread

Crusty Dutch Oven Bread

Crusty Dutch Oven Bread

 

3 cups all-purpose flour

1 ¾ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon active dry yeast

1 ½ cups water (room temperature)

 

Form the dough: In a big bowl mix the flour, salt and yeast together. Pour water into the bowl and using a spatula or a wooden spoon mix it until well incorporated. You do not need to activate the yeast before, even though we’re using active dry yeast. The slow rising process will do the trick. Allow it to rise: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it sit on your counter or inside your unheated oven for 12 to 24 hours. Preheat your oven: Preheat oven to 450°F. Add your cast iron pot to the oven as it’s heating and heat it as well until it’s at 450°F. Usually when the oven is done preheating your pot should be hot enough as well. Remove the pot from the oven and remove the lid from it. Use oven mitts, as to not burn yourself. Shape the dough: Flour your hands really well and also sprinkle a bit of flour over the dough. With your floured hands gently remove the dough from the bowl and roughly shape it into a ball. Sprinkle some extra flour directly into the bottom of the pot. Take the ball of dough and drop it into the pot. Cover the pot with the lid and place it back in the oven. Alternatively, you can also place the ball of dough onto a piece of parchment paper, then lift the parchment paper and drop it in the pot, with parchment paper and all. This could also ensure that your bread doesn’t stick at all to the bottom of the pot. I have found that if I use parchment paper, the bread doesn’t brown so much on the sides, but otherwise it’s still crusty and delicious. Finish the bread: Bake for 30 minutes with the lid on, after which remove the lid and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes until golden brown. Remove the bread from the pot, it should fall out easily. Let cool completely before slicing into it and serving.

Cabbage Wrap Brats

Cabbage Wrap Brats

Cabbage Wrap Brats

 

1 tbsp. olive oil

1 medium onion, sliced

Kosher salt

Freshly ground black pepper

4 bratwursts

1 (12-oz.) can beer

8 large cabbage leaves

Dijon mustard, for serving

1 c. sauerkraut

 

In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add onion, season with salt and pepper, and cook until slightly tender, 4 minutes. Push onions to edges of skillet and add brats to center of skillet. Sear brats until golden, 2 minutes per side. Add beer and simmer on medium-low until all the liquid has evaporated, 10 to 14 minutes. Meanwhile, blanch cabbage: In a large pot of boiling water, use tongs to dip cabbage leaves in water for 30 seconds. Place on a paper towel–lined plate to dry. When cool enough to handle, cut a “V” at the base of the leaf to remove the toughest part of the stem. Build wraps: Overlap 2 cabbage leaves, cut sides in, to create one large oval. Spread mustard in the center of cabbage leaves, then top with caramelized onions, sauerkraut, and brats. Fold the short ends of the cabbage leaves in, then tightly roll from one long end to the other.

Banana Tahini Smoothie

Banana Tahini Smoothie

Banana Tahini Smoothie

 

1 frozen banana

1 cup plain Greek yogurt

1/2 cup milk

2 tablespoons honey

2 tablespoons tahini

1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 pinch salt

4 large ice cubes

 

To make the smoothie, add the banana, Greek style yogurt, milk, honey, sesame paste, cinnamon, salt, and ice cubes to a blender.  Puree until completely smooth and no ice chips remain. Serve cold.

Baked Camembert in a Sourdough Bread Bowl

Baked Camembert in a Sourdough Bread Bowl

Baked Camembert in a Sourdough Bread Bowl

 

1 round rye sourdough loaf or cobb

250g camembert cheese disk

4 T. cranberry sauce

Splash of dry white wine

3-4 sprigs fresh rosemary

3-4 sprigs fresh thyme

 

Trim the top from the loaf to leave a circle 1cm larger in diameter than the camembert. Cut down 2cm into the dough to make a circular hole, pulling out the bread. Spread the cranberry sauce all over the cavity, then sit the camembert inside. Score the top, pour over a splash of dry white wine and add the herb sprigs. Wrap in foil and bake at 200°C/ 180°C fan/gas 6 for 15-20 minutes. Uncover and return to the oven for 5 minutes until golden and oozing. Tear or slice to serve.

Bacon Cabbage Dippers

Bacon Cabbage Dippers

Bacon Cabbage Dippers

 

1 medium head green cabbage

1 lb. bacon

1/4 c. grated Parmesan

2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil

Kosher salt

1 tsp. Freshly ground black pepper

1 tsp. dried oregano

 

Preheat oven to 450°. Quarter the cabbage and remove thick stem, then cut each quarter piece in half.  On two large baking sheets, toss cabbage lightly with Parmesan and oil then season with salt, pepper, and oregano.  Wrap a piece bacon around each cabbage wedge. Bake until cabbage is golden and crispy around edges and bacon is cooked through, about 30 minutes. Serve warm with ranch for dipping.

One-Pan Honey Garlic Chicken

One-Pan Honey Garlic Chicken

One-Pan Honey Garlic Chicken

 

6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

salt, to taste

pepper, to taste

1 T. unsalted butter

3 cloves garlic

1 T. brown sugar

¼ cup honey

1 tsp. dried thyme

1 tsp. dried oregano

1 lb green beans

 

Preheat oven to 400˚F (200˚C). Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Melt 1 T. butter in a large ovenproof skillet over medium heat. Add chicken, skin-side down, and sear both sides until golden brown. (The skin side will take much longer, in order to properly render the fat and crisp up the skin.) Remove chicken thighs and set aside. Pour out any excess fat, but leave some in for the sauce. Add garlic, stir until fragrant, then add brown sugar, honey, thyme, and oregano, and stir. Reduce heat to low. Return chicken to the skillet. Coat the chicken in the sauce. Add green beans to skillet. Bake for 25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through. Enjoy!

Sausage and Egg Waffle Taco

Sausage and Egg Waffle Taco

Sausage and Egg Waffle Taco

 

10 frozen round buttermilk waffles

8 ounces Mild Country Sausage

6 eggs, lightly beaten

Syrup, optional

 

Preheat oven to 400°F. Place 5 waffles on microwave-safe plate. Microwave on HIGH 45 seconds or until waffles are thawed. Repeat with the remaining 5 waffles. Fold thawed waffles in half and secure with wooden picks. Place on baking sheet. Bake 5 minutes or until waffles are crisp. Remove from oven; set aside. Meanwhile, cook sausage in large skillet over medium-high heat 5 minutes or until crumbled and no longer pink, stirring occasionally; drain. Remove from skillet and keep warm. Reduce heat to medium. Add eggs to same skillet; cook without stirring until edges and bottom begin to set. Gently turn to scramble; continue cooking until set. Remove wooden picks from waffles. Divide sausage evenly between waffles, top evenly with eggs. Drizzle with syrup, if desired.

Spiced Apple, Squash, and Carrot Muffins

Spiced Apple, Squash, and Carrot Muffins

Spiced Apple, Squash, and Carrot Muffins

 

1 cup plain whole-wheat flour

1/4 cup superfine sugar

1 1/2 tsp. baking soda

½ tsp. ground cinnamon

1/4 tsp. fine salt

¼ tsp. ground ginger

1/2 tsp. pumpkin pie spice

1/2 cup sunflower oil

1/2 cup maple syrup

2 eggs, beaten

1/2 tsp. vanilla extract

1 cup peeled and grated apple

1 cup grated carrot

1 cup peeled and grated butternut squash

1/3 cup raisins

 

Preheat the oven to 35O°F (180°C) and line a 12-hole muffin pan with paper liners. Put all of the dry ingredients in a bowl and mix. Put all of the wet ingredients into another bowl and stir to combine. Mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients gently until combined. Divide the mixture evenly between the muffin liners and bake in the oven for 20 minutes until well risen and just firm in the middle. Remove from the oven, leave to cool in the pan for a few minutes then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. The muffins will keep for up to 2 days in an airtight container.

Huevos Al Plato Cast iron

Huevos Al Plato Cast iron

Huevos Al Plato Cast iron

 

½ C. Butternut squash (or your favorite)

Extra-virgin olive oil

Kosher or sea salt

Freshly ground black pepper

½ tsp. dried or fresh herbs (we use thyme or rosemary)

2 fresh farm eggs

¼ C. (1 ounce) Spanish chorizo, sliced (or substitute Portuguese or Italian sausage)

Pea tendrils, spinach, arugula to garnish (optional)

Crusty baguette

 

Heat oven to 350°. Peel squash and slice in half-moon-shaped pieces 1/4 inch thick. Toss the squash with olive oil, salt, pepper and herbs and place on a baking sheet. Roast for 25 minutes, or until tender. Grease a 6-inch cast-iron skillet (or small roasting dish) with olive oil. Crack the eggs into the skillet and add the roasted squash. Scatter the chorizo and add a pinch of salt to the yolks. Bake for about 10 minutes, or until the whites are fully cooked. Pay careful attention not to overcook the yolks. Remove pan from the oven and add fresh greens. Serve with crusty bread and enjoy. Serves 2 as an appetizer.

ATK Indoor-BBQ Chicken

ATK Indoor-BBQ Chicken

 

Sauce:

 

1 C. Ketchup

3 T. Cider Vinegar

3 T. mild Molasses

2 T. finely grated Onion

2 T. Worcestershire Sauce

2 T. Dijon Mustard

2 T. Maple Syrup

1 tsp. Chile Powder

¼ tsp. Cayenne

 

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Salt & Pepper

1 T. Vegetable Oil

 

Whisk all sauce ingredients in a small bowl. Adjust oven rack to upper middle and heat to 325 degrees. Pat chicken dry and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Heat oil in 12 inch oven safe skillet over medium high heat until just smoking. Cook chicken breasts until very lightly brown on one side, 1-2 minutes. Flip and cook another 1-2 minutes. Transfer chicken to a plate and drain off fat in skillet. Add sauce to pan, scraping up browned bits. Turn up to medium-high and simmer, stirring often, until sauce is thick and glossy, about 4 minutes. Off heat, return chicken to pan and coat with sauce. Turn chicken and spoon more sauce over so they are well coated. Transfer skillet to the oven and cook until chicken reaches 130 degrees on instant read thermometer, 10-14 minutes. Add rack to 5 inches below broiler and heat broiler. Move skillet to that rack and broil until thickest part reaches 160-165 degrees, 5 to 10 minutes longer. Carefully transfer chicken to platter and rest 5 minutes. Sitr what is left of the sauce (careful, handle remains hot) and transfer to small serving bowl to serve alongside chicken.

Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Soup

Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Soup

Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Soup

 

1 T. olive oil

8 ounces boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch chunks

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

2 T. unsalted butter

3 cloves garlic, minced

8 ounces cremini mushrooms, thinly sliced

1 onion, diced

3 carrots, peeled and diced

2 stalks celery, diced

1/2 tsp. dried thyme

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

4 cups chicken stock

1 bay leaf

1/2 cup half and half, or more, as needed

2 T. chopped fresh parsley leaves

1 sprig rosemary

 

Heat olive oil in a large stockpot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper, to taste. Add chicken to the stockpot and cook until golden, about 2-3 minutes; set aside. Melt butter in the stockpot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add garlic, mushrooms, onion, carrots and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in thyme until fragrant, about 1 minute. Whisk in flour until lightly browned, about 1 minute. Whisk in chicken stock, bay leaf and chicken thighs, and cook, whisking constantly, until slightly thickened, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in half and half until heated through, about 1-2 minutes; season with salt and pepper, to taste. If the soup is too thick, add more half and half as needed until desired consistency is reached. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley and rosemary, if desired.

Agave Lime Chicken

Agave Lime Chicken

Agave Lime Chicken

 

1/2 cup agave

1/4 cup lime juice

1-1/4 tsp. grated lime peel, divided

Salt

1 tsp. rosemary, crushed

Red hot pepper

Pepper

1/8 tsp. dried crushed

2 boneless skinless chicken breast halves (8 to 10 oz. each)

1 tsp. cornstarch

1 T. water

 

Combine agave, lime juice, 1 tsp. lime peel, salt, rosemary and pepper; mix well. Sprinkle chicken breasts with salt and pepper to taste. Bake at 375°F for 30 minutes; brush with agave mixture and bake 15 minutes longer or until juices run clear. Remove chicken from baking pan; pour remaining sauce into pan and deglaze. Strain mixture into small saucepan; bring mixture to boil. Combine cornstarch and water; add to strained sauce. Cook and stir until mixture comes to boil. Boil 1 minute. Stir in remaining lime peel. Slice chicken breast; pour hot sauce over slices.

Green Smoothie that Kids will Love

Green Smoothie that Kids will Love

Green Smoothie that Kids will Love

 

1 medium seedless navel Orange, peeled and separated into quarters

1 c, Cubed Pineapple, fresh or frozen and thawed

1 packed C. Baby Spinach

1/2 frozen ripe Banana, cut into thick slices

1 T. Honey

10 small Ice Cubes

 

Put all the ingredients into a blender. Blend until creamy, with no obvious pieces of spinach remaining. Pour into 2 or 3 glasses

boost it: Add 4 ounces of silken tofu and 1/2 tsp. of vanilla extract to the blender to increase the protein and healthful isoflavones.

adapt it: To minimize the texture, instead of peeling the orange, use a serrated knife to sheer off the entire peel and pith, revealing a bright orange globe of exposed flesh.

Blueberry Muffin Green Smoothie

Blueberry Muffin Green Smoothie

Blueberry Muffin Green Smoothie

 

1 cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk (or milk of choice)

½ tsp. vanilla extract

1 cup frozen blueberries

1 scoop vanilla protein

1 large handful baby spinach

2 T. almond butter

1 T. coconut flakes

Hoisin Turkey Lettuce Cups

Hoisin Turkey Lettuce Cups

Hoisin Turkey Lettuce Cups

 

6 T. hoisin sauce

1 T. soy sauce

1 T. sriracha

1 1/2 tsp. oil

1/3 cup seeded and small-diced red bell pepper

2 cups diced leftover turkey

10 Bibb lettuce cups, each roughly the size of a small hand

1/4 cup finely diced green onion

About 1/2 cup of something crunchy: crispy chow mein noodles are ideal; peanuts or cashews would work great, too

 

Combine the hoisin, soy sauce, and sriracha in a small bowl. Mix well and set aside. Heat a wok or large skillet over medium heat. Add the oil and swirl it around. Add the bell pepper and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the diced turkey and stir well to combine. When the turkey mixture has been warmed through, add the hoisin mixture and stir quickly, making sure all is coated well. Remove from the heat and divide among the lettuce cups. Top each with green onion and crunchies.

Leftover Short Rib Pasta

Leftover Short Rib Pasta

Leftover Short Rib Pasta

 

leftover short ribs, bones removed and meat pulled, including any sauce (If sauce is short, blend with a bit of heavy cream

kosher salt

1 pound rigatoni

1/2 cup grated Parmigiano cheese

extra-virgin olive oil, for finishing

chopped Parsley, for garnish

 

Heat up the shredded short ribs and sauce in a large pot along with 1 cup of water. Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. Taste the water to make sure it is as salty as the ocean. Toss in the rigatoni and cook 2 minutes less than it says on the package or bite a noodle to check for doneness (the pasta should be just underdone). Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water. Drain the pasta and toss it into the pot with the short ribs and sauce along with the reserved pasta water. Stir to combine and cook for 1-2 minutes. Turn off the heat. Toss in the grated Parmesan and drizzle with olive oil. Stir vigorously to combine.

Easy Short Rib Stroganoff {leftovers}

Easy Short Rib Stroganoff {leftovers}

Easy Short Rib Stroganoff {leftovers}

 

3 T. cornstarch

3 T. cold water

1 1/2 cups beef stock

2 T. butter

1/2 medium onion, diced

8 ounces cremini mushrooms, stemmed and thinly sliced

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

1/3 cup sour cream

1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce

1 T. prepared horseradish

1 T. finely chopped fresh dill, plus more for garnish

8 ounces shredded leftover Short Ribs

 

Mix the cornstarch and cold water in a small bowl until very smooth. Put the stock in a small pot over medium heat and, once warm, add the cornstarch slurry and stir or whisk until it thickens, then remove from the heat and set aside. Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat, then cook the onion and mushrooms until lightly browned, 3 to 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add the thickened stock, sour cream, Worcestershire, horseradish, and dill. Stir to combine and add the short ribs. Let simmer for 5 minutes. Serve over egg noodles, rice, or whatever makes sense, maybe with a little more dill for garnish.

Grilled Hoisin Meatballs

Grilled Hoisin Meatballs

Grilled Hoisin Meatballs

 

32 small leftover meatballs, about a pound

1/2 cup Hoisin sauce

2 T. chili sauce (Sambal)

1 tsp. sesame oil

2 T. soy sauce

Green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish

 

Combine hoisin, chili sauce, sesame oil and soy in a small bowl and mix well to combine – set aside. Heat grill to medium/high (or oven to 400). Grill meatballs until fully warmed through and just starting to brown with grill markings (or bake in oven until heated thru and beginning to sizzle, about 15 minutes). Put meatballs in a large bowl and toss with some of the sauce, plate and sprinkle with green onion & sesame seeds.

Pesto French Bread Pizza

Pesto French Bread Pizza

Pesto French Bread Pizza

 

10 leftover meatballs, sliced into rounds

2 T. butter

1 large clove garlic, minced

2 T. flour

1 cup milk

1/4 cup Parmesan cheese

½ C. pesto

1 loaf French bread

1 cup Mozzarella, grated

 

Put slices of meatball in a bowl and toss with pesto – set aside. Melt butter in a medium pot on low heat, add garlic. Cook about a minute or until just fragrant then whisk in flour. Continue stirring and cook about a minute until it becomes a thick paste. Add milk and whisk to incorporate. When it starts to thicken, add Parmesan cheese and stir well until thick & smooth. Preheat broiler. Cut french bread lengthwise and add a generous layer of the cheese sauce to both cut sides. Add a layer of meatballs and top with mozzarella. Place under the broiler until bubbly, melty and gorgeous. Slice & serve.

Sheet Pan Chicken with Vegetables & Creamy Garlic Lemon Sauce

Sheet Pan Chicken with Vegetables & Creamy Garlic Lemon Sauce

Sheet Pan Chicken with Vegetables & Creamy Garlic Lemon Sauce

 

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

1 1/2 tsp. salt

1 tsp. onion powder

1 tsp. ground cumin

1/2 tsp. light brown sugar

1/2 tsp. ground black pepper

1/2 tsp. dried oregano

1/4 tsp. chili powder

1/4 tsp. smoked paprika

1/8 tsp. ground cayenne pepper

1 1/2 – 2 lb Boneless Skinless Chicken Thigh

 

1 lb asparagus, ends broken off, then cut into half

3 oz baby bella sliced mushrooms

1/2 pint grape tomatoes, halved

2-3 T. extra virgin olive oil

salt and pepper

 

2 T. butter

2 T. flour

3 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 tsp. red pepper flakes

3/4 cup low sodium chicken broth

1 cup fat free Half & Half

1/4 cup Parmesan cheese

1/2 T. dried basil

zest + juice of one medium lemon

salt and pepper

 

Begin by combining all the seasonings for the chicken spice rub. Set aside, then trim the chicken thighs into similar sizes, removing any fat if needed. Brush each piece of chicken with olive oil, then rub each side thoroughly with the spice rub. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Carefully place all of the chicken on one half of the paper, then toss the asparagus in a bit of olive oil, salt and pepper and place those on the other side of the sheet. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 12-15 minutes. While the chicken and asparagus are baking toss the mushroom and tomatoes in a bit of olive oil and salt and pepper. Once the chicken and asparagus are almost done, add the mushrooms and tomatoes to the pan on top of the asparagus and bake uncovered for another 12-15 minutes. While the chicken is baking, melt the butter for the sauce in a medium saucepan. Once melted, slowly whisk in the flour. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes, whisking together, then slowly stir in the chicken broth. Add the half and half, Parmesan, basil, lemon zest and lemon juice, salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, stirring occasionally, then reduce to simmer until sauce thickens and reduces just a bit. Remove from heat. Serve as is, or over some brown and wild rice mixed with a bit of the creamy garlic lemon sauce for a full, flavorful meal. Drizzle some of the sauce over the chicken (and rice), it perfectly balances the heat of the spice rub on the chicken thighs with smooth and creamy taste of the sauce.

Slow-Cooker Lemony Chicken and Rice with Spinach and Feta

Slow-Cooker Lemony Chicken and Rice with Spinach and Feta

Slow-Cooker Lemony Chicken and Rice with Spinach and Feta

 

1 small onion, peeled and finely chopped

2 T. EVOO

3 small cloves garlic, peeled and minced

2 tsp. fresh oregano or ½ tsp. dried

1 tsp. Salt, divided

½ C. Chicken Broth (half and half?)

1 ½ C. Instant White Rice

8 boneless skinless chicken thighs (small to medium in size), trimmed and any fat discarded

¼ tsp. Pepper

2 C. fresh baby spinach leaves

½ C. crumbled feta cheese

1 tsp freshly grated lemon zest

2 T. fresh lemon juice

2 T. minced Parsley

 

Microwave onion, oil, garlic, oregano, and 1/2 tsp. salt in bowl, stirring occasionally, until onion is softened, about 5 minutes; transfer to slow cooker. Stir in broth. Sprinkle chicken with remaining 1/2 tsp. salt and pepper and nestle into slow cooker. Cover and cook until chicken is tender, 4 to 5 hours on low. Transfer chicken to plate. Stir rice into slow cooker. Arrange chicken on top of rice, adding any accumulated juices. Cover and cook on high until rice is tender, 20 to 30 minutes. Transfer chicken to serving platter and tent loosely with aluminum foil. Gently stir spinach into slow cooker, 1 handful at a time, and let sit until wilted, about 5 minutes. Stir in lemon zest and juice, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Transfer rice to dish with chicken and sprinkle with feta and parsley. Serve.

Sauteed Zucchini with Herbed Dressing

Sauteed Zucchini with Herbed Dressing

Sauteed Zucchini with Herbed Dressing

 

A lovely side dish, this zucchini also makes a delicious omelet or vegetarian taco filling. Top with some avocado for extra green. For this meal, serve the zucchini warm or at room temperature. It’s great either way and the latter means you can make it a few hours ahead of time.

 

1/4 cup [60 g] plain full-fat Greek yogurt

A large handful of fresh Italian parsley leaves (a little bit of stem is fine!), roughly chopped

A large handful of minced fresh chives

1 garlic clove, minced

1 T. white wine vinegar

1/4 cup [60 ml] olive oil, plus 2 T., plus more as needed

Kosher salt

1 12 lb [680 g] zucchini (about 3 large), ends trimmed

 

In a food processor, combine the yogurt, parsley, chives, garlic, vinegar, and 1/4 cup [60 ml] of the olive oil and puree until smooth. You might need to scrape down the sides with a rubber spatula once or twice to make sure everything is evenly combined. Season the dressing to taste with salt and reserve it. Cut each zucchini in half lengthwise. Then, working with one zucchini half at a time, lay it on its flat side so it’s stable and cut into half-moons 1/2 in [12 mm] thick. You can do this on the diagonal if you’d like. In a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, warm the remaining 2 T. olive oil. Add as much of the zucchini to the pan as will fit in a single layer without crowding. You may need to work in batches, depending on the size of your skillet; you’re looking for sauteed zucchini, not steamed zucchini. Sprinkle with a generous pinch of salt and cook, stirring now and then, until just softened and browned in spots, 8 to 10 minutes. Transfer the zucchini to a serving platter. If working in batches, keep the first batch warm and repeat with the remaining zucchini, adding more oil to the skillet if needed. Drizzle the zucchini with the reserved dressing. Serve warm or at room temperature.

 

Leftovers: Place leftover zucchini, dressing and all, into a food processor with a drained and rinsed can of chickpeas. Puree until smooth and season to taste with tahini, lemon juice, and salt. Serve with warm pita bread (or crispy pita chips) or crunchy vegetables for dipping. It’s also good as a neighbor to roasted chicken, grilled shrimp, or even scrambled eggs.

Slow Cooker Caramelized Onions

Slow Cooker Caramelized Onions

Slow Cooker Caramelized Onions

 

5 yellow onions, cut lengthwise into 1/4-inch-thick slices

5 T. butter, melted

1 tsp. table salt

 

Place the onions in the crock of a slow cooker, then drizzle with the butter and salt and toss to combine. Cook on low for 12 hours. If at some point you can stir the onions, do so, but no need to set the alarm for two a.m. if you’re cooking them overnight. The onions will last in the refrigerator for 10 days, but I usually just package them in 1-cup servings and freeze for later use.

Lemon Dill Cheese Truffles

Lemon Dill Cheese Truffles

Lemon Dill Cheese Truffles

 

4 ounces (113 g) goat cheese

4 ounces (113 g) cream cheese

16 tsp. garlic powder

4 to 5 T. chopped fresh dill

Zest of 1 lemon

 

In a medium bowl, mix together the goat cheese, cream cheese, and garlic powder. Use a #100 scoop to scoop the cheese mixture into balls. You can leave them domed with a flat side, like the shape of the scoop, or you can roll them into balls with your hands. In a small bowl, combine the fresh dill and lemon zest. Roll the cheese balls in the lemon-dill mixture to coat.

Taco Salad Dressing

Taco Salad Dressing

Taco Salad Dressing

 

½ Ripe Avocado

½ C. Buttermilk

2 T. chopped Fresh Cilantro

1 ½ T. Lime Juice

1 clove Garlic, minced

1 tsp. Salt

¼ tsp. Pepper

 

Process ingredients in blender until smooth, about 60 seconds.

Caramel Banilla Bites

Caramel Banilla Bites

Caramel Banilla Bites

 

1/3 cup (87 g) Caramel Peanut Butter

12 round vanilla wafers

1 banana, sliced into 6 thick pieces

Colored sprinkles, optional

 

Spread a small amount of peanut butter onto each wafer. Place a slice of banana in the middle of 6 wafers, and top with remaining wafers. Place sprinkles, if using, in a shallow bowl, and roll the cookies over the sprinkles a couple of times until the sides are covered.

 

Caramel Peanut Butter

 

1 cup (175 g) caramel chips

1 T. (15 ml) maple syrup (optional)

1 cup (260 g) peanut butter

 

In a double boiler, melt the caramel chips, stirring continuously. Add the maple syrup, if using, as you stir. Once all caramel chips are melted, add the peanut butter, and continue to stir until everything is evenly combined. Pour the peanut butter into two glass jars. Allow the jars to cool before closing.

Smoked Almond Cheese Truffles

Smoked Almond Cheese Truffles

Smoked Almond Cheese Truffles

 

8 ounces (227 g) cream cheese, softened

1 C. (90 g) shredded extra-sharp Cheddar cheese

1/2 tsp. garlic powder

1/4 tsp. onion powder

Chopped smoked almonds, to taste

 

In a medium bowl, mix together the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder. Use a #100 scoop to scoop the cream cheese mixture into balls. You can leave them domed with a flat side like the shape of the scoop, or you can roll them into balls with your hands. Roll the cheese balls in the chopped smoked almonds to coat.

Prosciutto-Wrapped Figs with Gorgonzola

Prosciutto-Wrapped Figs with Gorgonzola

Prosciutto-Wrapped Figs with Gorgonzola

 

8 ounces fresh figs (about 9 figs)

¼ pound prosciutto (thinly sliced)

4 ounces gorgonzola cheese

2 T. balsamic reduction or aged balsamic vinegar

 

Preheat oven to 375°F. Gently clean figs, remove stem and slice each in half lengthwise.

Stack gorgonzola cheese pieces on each half fig. Wrap fig and gorgonzola with thinly sliced prosciutto all the way around. Arrange on a baking sheet and bake at 375F for 5 minutes, cheese should be soft and prosciutto has begun to crisp. Drizzle with balsamic reduction. For the balsamic reduction: In a saucepan, heat 3 T. good quality balsamic vinegar over very low heat. Cook for 10-15 minutes or until the vinegar has started to thicken.

Notes: This appetizer can be served cold and is just as delicious! Baking the figs for 5 minutes will soften the cheese so it’s just a touch melty and warm the figs. Fresh figs are recommended. You can definitely substitute dried figs, they will be much sweeter and you will need to stuff them with the cheese instead of using half a fig. If making in advance, wait until serving to drizzle with balsamic.

BACON-WRAPPED MINI SAUSAGES

BACON-WRAPPED MINI SAUSAGES

BACON-WRAPPED MINI SAUSAGES

 

1 package bacon, 16 ounces (454 g) in size (16 to 20 slices)

1 package mini smoked sausages (such as Hillshire Farm Lit’l Smokies), 12 ounces (340 g) in size

32 to 40 toothpicks, 3 inches (7.5 cm) in size

1/2 C. (90 g) brown sugar

 

Preheat the oven to 325 °F (160°C; gas mark 3). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside. Cut the bacon slices in half. Wrap a half slice of bacon around a mini smoked sausage, and then secure with a toothpick. Set aside. Repeat until you run out of bacon, smoked sausages, or both. Add the brown sugar and wrapped sausages to a 1-gallon resealable plastic bag or container. Shake to coat thoroughly. Transfer the coated wrapped sausages to the prepared baking sheet, arranging them in a single layer. Bake for about 40 minutes, or until the bacon is crisp. Let cool and remove toothpicks, if desired, before serving.

Limoncello

Limoncello

Limoncello

 

Makes 1 litre (13 pints)

500ml (18fl oz) vodka (or gin if you prefer)

pared zest of 3 unwaxed lemons

2 lemongrass stalks

500g (1 lb. 2oz) caster (superfine) sugar

3 good sprigs of lemon verbena

 

Pour the vodka into a 1 liter (13/4 pint) jar, add the lemon zest, lemongrass and stir well. Leave for a week to infuse. In a large pan over a medium heat, add the sugar to 500ml (18fl oz) water, stirring until it is dissolved. Turn off the heat and allow to cool for 5 minutes. Add the lemon verbena to the vodka and pour in as much of the warm syrup as will fill the bottle. Once cool, place in the fridge. It will be bright and lively initially, mellowing and deepening in flavor over time: both are excellent.

Floral Cheese Truffles

Floral Cheese Truffles

Floral Cheese Truffles

 

4 ounces (113 g) honey goat cheese

4 ounces (113 g) cream cheese

Dried edible flowers (such as lavender, calendula, rose), to taste

 

In a medium bowl, mix together the goat cheese and cream cheese. Use a #100 scoop to scoop the cheese mixture into balls. You can leave them domed with a flat side, like the shape of the scoop, or you can roll them into balls with your hands. Roll the cheese balls in the dried flowers to coat.

Sunchoke Pickle

Sunchoke Pickle

1½ lbs sunchokes (a.k.a. Jerusalem artichokes), thoroughly scrubbed and cut into ½-inch dice

1 teaspoon ground dried turmeric

1 ounces garlic (about 8 cloves), chopped

½ ounce fresh ginger, minced (about 1 ½ tablespoons)

1 teaspoon cumin seeds

2 teaspoons pickling salt

2 teaspoons sugar

1½ cups water

 

Toss together sunchokes, turmeric, garlic, ginger, and cumin. Pack the mixture into a jar with a capacity of at least 6 cups. Dissolve salt and sugar in the water. Pour brine over sunchoke mixture; it will not cover them at first. Add a brine bag (a gallon freezer-weight plastic bag containing 1 tablespoon salt dissolved in 3 cups water) or another suitable weight. The next day the brine should cover the sunchokes. If it doesn’t, add more brine mixed in the same proportions. Wait several days before tasting the pickle. After a week, the brine will be still sour, and the Jerusalem artichokes pleasantly, mildly spicy and still crunchy. When the pickle has fermented enough to suit your taste, store the jar in the refrigerator. Keep sunchokes weighted and under the brine so they won’t take on a grayish cast.

Seared Scallops with Shaved Fennel Cucumber and Grapefruit

Seared Scallops with Shaved Fennel Cucumber and Grapefruit

Seared Scallops with Shaved Fennel Cucumber and Grapefruit

 

1 Ruby Red grapefruit

1 T. extra-virgin olive oil, divided

3/4 pound large sea scallops

1/2 tsp. coarse salt, divided

Freshly ground pepper

3 ounces English cucumber, thinly shaved crosswise on a mandoline (3/4 cup)

1 T. fresh lemon juice

1 T. chopped fresh chives

1 tsp. finely chopped fresh tarragon leaves

1/2 large fennel bulb (5 1/2 ounces), cut in half (root end trimmed but left intact to keep fennel together)

 

Finely grate enough grapefruit rind to yield 1/2 tsp. zest. Peel grapefruit with a paring knife, removing all pith. Working over a bowl, cut three-quarters of the grapefruit segments from the membranes, cut into bite-size pieces, and set aside. Squeeze juice of remaining grapefruit segments into bowl (you should have 1/3 cup juice). Heat 1 tsp. oil in a nonstick sauté pan over medium-high heat. Pat scallops dry, sprinkle with 1/4 tsp. salt, and season with pepper. Sauté scallops until deep golden brown, about 3 minutes. Flip, and continue to cook until barely opaque all the way through, about 2 minutes more. Divide scallops between 2 plates, and loosely tent with foil. Reduce heat to low and add grapefruit juice. Cook, stirring and scraping up browned bits, until reduced to 1 T., 2 to 3 minutes. Pour sauce over scallops. Combine cucumber, lemon juice, remaining 2 tsp. oil, the grapefruit zest and pieces, chives, tarragon, and remaining 1/4 tsp. salt in a bowl. Shave fennel into bowl, season with pepper, and toss gently to combine. Pile salad atop scallops.

Creamy Beef Noodle Bake

Creamy Beef Noodle Bake

Creamy Beef Noodle Bake

 

1 lb ground beef

1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce

½ teaspoon onion powder

½ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon pepper

1 package (12 oz) wide egg noodles

3/4 cup sour cream

1 container (16 oz) cottage cheese (equals 2 cups)

2 cups shredded cheese

 

Heat oven to 350°F. Prepare a 9×13 baking dish and spray with cooking spray.

Cook the ground beef in a skillet pan, over medium-high heat, until no longer pink. Drain any excess grease.  Add the tomato sauce, onion powder, salt, and pepper into the meat. Stir and let it simmer, over medium heat, while the egg noodles cook.

Cook the egg noodles according to package directions. Don’t forget to add at least 1 teaspoon of salt in with the noodles. In large mixing bowl, stir together the sour cream and cottage cheese. When noodles are done cooking, drain the noodles, but do not rinse. Add the noodles into the mixing bowl with the cottage cheese and stir to coat all the noodles. Pour half the egg noodle mixture into your prepared pan, top with half the ground beef mixture, and then half the shredded cheese. Repeat. Cover with foil and cook for 20 minutes. If you want those crunchy casserole edges and noodle edges then don’t cover with tin foil.

Herb-Marinated Goat Cheese Mini Jars

Herb-Marinated Goat Cheese Mini Jars

Herb-Marinated Goat Cheese Mini Jars

 

4 mini jelly jars with lids, 1.5 to 2 ounces (45 to 60 ml) in size

½ tsp. chopped fresh basil

½ tsp. chopped fresh rosemary

½ tsp. chopped fresh thyme

½ tsp. chopped fresh oregano

Salt, to taste

Fresh cracked black pepper, to taste

1 log goat cheese, 4 ounces (113 g)

Extra-virgin olive oil

 

Remove the lids of the jars so that the jars are ready to fill.  In a small bowl, mix together the fresh herbs, salt, and pepper. Set aside. Cut the goat cheese log into fourths, and then cut the fourths into smaller pieces. Alternate layering the goat cheese pieces and herbs in each jar. Slowly pour olive oil into each jar until filled. Fasten the lids on the jars and refrigerate until ready to serve. The olive oil will become firm in the refrigerator, so let the jars sit at room temperature until the olive oil becomes liquid again before serving.