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Tag: Dips & Dippers

Clam Dip

Clam Dip

Clam Dip

 

20 ounces canned whole baby clams (this is 2 10-ounce cans. You can reduce to one can if you prefer.)

8 ounces brick style cream cheese. Note: if you don’t use the food processor for this recipe you will need to make sure your cream cheese is softened.

3 Tbsp sour cream

3 Tbsp mayonnaise

2 Tbsp cream style horseradish

1 Tbsp lemon juice, or more to taste

1 tsp hot sauce, or more to taste

1 tsp Old Bay seasoning

4 Tbsp clam juice

1 bunch green onions, trimmed and thinly sliced or minced, both white and green parts.

salt to taste

 

Drain your clams and reserve the juice. I like to use a food processor for this next step, but you can do it by hand in a bowl if you prefer. Load the cream cheese, sour cream, mayo, horseradish, lemon juice, hot sauce, and Old Bay seasoning into your food processor fitted with the metal blade (or into a mixing bowl.) Pulse/process until everything is well combined. Add the drained clams and clam juice to the processor and pulse/process until they are finely minced and incorporated into the dip. The size of the bits of clam is up to you, you can make your dip chunkier or smoother as you like. Note: if doing this by hand, mince the clams before you add them. Remove the dip to a bowl and stir in the green onions, and add the salt to taste. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve. The dip can be made up to a day ahead. If you find your dip is too thick, thin it down with more clam juice. Take a final taste before serving and adjust any of the seasonings, lemon juice, salt, etc. to your liking.  Serve the dip chilled with potato chips, Fritos, or crackers of your choice.

Cilantro Lemon Hummus

Cilantro Lemon Hummus

Cilantro Lemon Hummus

 

19 ounces canned chickpeas, drained and well rinsed

1 cup cilantro, rinsed and loosely packed

1 clove garlic, peeled

1/4 cup tahini

3-4 Tbsp lemon juice, fresh squeezed

1 tsp salt

1/2 cup ice water

 

Load everything except the ice water into your blender and blend, starting on low. Add the ice water and continue to blend, gradually increasing the speed until you reach the highest speed. The hummus should be completely smooth. Stop the machine to scrape down the sides if necessary. Give the hummus a taste in case you would like to add more salt, or more lemon juice. Chill the hummus until ready to serve.

Hot Honey

Hot Honey

Hot Honey

 

1 cup honey

3 tsp red chile pepper flakes, or about 5 small dried peppers, crushed

 

Put honey and hot pepper flakes in a glass microwave safe jar. Microwave for 1 minute and stir to combine (the honey will become thinner and more fluid after it is heated.) We don’t want the honey boil, as this will destroy some of its beneficial properties. Stir and let the honey steep for 15 minutes. Strain into a clean jar. Note: if your honey has cooled and thickened too much to be strained, gently heat it again to loosen it for straining. Honey will keep in an airtight jar in a cool dry place. Once you infuse honey with dried chile flakes I recommend using it within a 3-6 months. If you use fresh hot chiles you’ll want to store the strained honey in the refrigerator to reduce the risk of spoilage. When refrigerated, the hot honey should last for about 3-6 months.

Best-Ever Ranch Dressing

Best-Ever Ranch Dressing

Best-Ever Ranch Dressing

 

½ cup buttermilk

3 T. plain nonfat Greek yogurt

3 tsp. fresh lemon juice

½ tsp. kosher salt

½ tsp. freshly ground black pepper

½ tsp. dried oregano

½ tsp. garlic powder

½ tsp. onion powder

½ tsp. dried dill

½ tsp. sweet paprika

Pinch of cayenne (optional)

 

In a small bowl, combine the buttermilk, yogurt, lemon juice, salt, pepper, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, dill, paprika, and cayenne if using. Whisk until smooth. If the dressing seems too thick, add water, 1 tsp. at a time, until you get a consistency you like.

 

That Good Dressing

That Good Dressing

That Good Dressing

 

1 teaspoon pressed or finely minced garlic

1 tablespoon honey

1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper

2 tablespoons brown mustard

1 tablespoon each fresh, or 1 teaspoon each dried basil, oregano, and rosemary

1 teaspoon soy sauce

1/2 cup any good vinegar (red, white or rice wine or apple cider)

1 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil

1/2 to 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to your taste)

 

Combine all ingredients in blender and whir until emulsified. Alternately, without a blender, combine all ingredients except the olive oil in a medium bowl, then slowly whisk in the olive oil until the ingredients are emulsified. Taste and adjust the salt.

Keep refrigerated up to several weeks (but it probably will be used up quickly).

 

GREEK BLEND

1 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried mint

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1/2 teaspoon dried basil

1/2 teaspoon dried marjoram

1/2 teaspoon dried minced onion

1/4 teaspoon dried minced garlic

1teaspoon lemon zest

 

SUNSHINE BLEND

1/4 cup dried oregano leaves

2 tablespoons fennel seeds

2 tablespoons crushed lemongrass

2 tablespoons dried lemon zest

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1 tablespoon kosher salt

 

ITALIAN BLEND BLEND

2 tablespoons dried basil

2 tablespoons dried oregano

2 tablespoons dried rosemary

2 tablespoons dried marjoram

2 tablespoons dried cilantro

2 tablespoons dried thyme

2 tablespoons dried savory

2 tablespoons red pepper flakes

El Tiempo’s Green Sauce

El Tiempo’s Green Sauce

El Tiempo’s Green Sauce

 

8 to 10 tomatillos (1 pound), husks peeled

1 poblano pepper

2 garlic cloves, peeled

2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (1 large lime)

2 large Haas avocados, halved, peeled and pitted

1 cup sour cream

1/4 cup cream cheese

3 tablespoons fresh cilantro sprigs

2 teaspoons kosher salt

 

Preheat the oven broiler.  Meanwhile peel the husks off the tomatillos and rinse them in water and dry them. Tomatillos look like small green tomatoes but they have a brighter and slightly citrus flavor. They have a paper like husk that you need to remove before roasting them. Place the tomatillos, poblano pepper and garlic cloves on a sheet pan and roast them on the second highest oven rack until the skin is charred on all sides. After the skin begins to char on one side (about 4 to 5 minutes) flip them over to finish. Take your tomatillos and poblano pepper out. Then you want to sweat them so they are easy to peel. You can do this by putting them in a bowl and covering it with plastic wrap or  placing them in a plastic or paper bag and sealing it to trap the steam in. After five minutes they will be ready to peel. A step by step picture of how this salsa or green sauce comes together. Roasting the tomatillos is what really makes this salsa. It gives the tomatillos a slightly sweet but earthy flavor that I prefer when it comes to making homemade salsa. The poblano pepper adds just a touch of heat but it isn’t overpowering or spicy.  Remove the stem and seeds from the poblano pepper. Place the peeled tomatillos and poblano pepper in a food processor and pulse until they are chopped like a chunky salsa. Add in the lime juice, avocado halves, sour cream, cream cheese, cilantro and salt. Blend the salsa until it is smooth and creamy. If you are not serving it immediately then cover the top surface with plastic wrap to keep the air out and refrigerate it. It will keep up to two days in the fridge. Now if I could only give you a taste, you would understand why this green sauce is my all time hometown favorite. There are few things that make me happier than eating green sauce and tortilla chips. If you are looking for something delicious to make this holiday weekend then you need to try this avocado tomatillo salsa. El Tiempo’s green sauce is summer party food at its best.

Pineapple Fruit Dip

Pineapple Fruit Dip

Pineapple Fruit Dip

 

8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature

1/2 cup brown sugar

3 tablespoons sour cream

1/4 cup pineapple juice

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

 

First, the bowl of a stand mixer using a paddle attachment or using a hand mixer beat together the cream cheese and brown sugar for 2 to 3 minutes on medium speed. Finally, add in the sour cream, pineapple juice, vanilla and cinnamon and blend until creamy. Spoon the dip into a small bowl and serve with your favorite berries and fruit.

Creamy Avocado Dip

Creamy Avocado Dip

Creamy Avocado Dip

 

2 small Hass avocados, peeled, pitted and cut into quarters

1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons buttermilk

1 tablespoon white wine vinegar

1 tablespoon shallot, minced

2 teaspoons flat leaf parsley, chopped

2 small garlic clove, minced

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

1 teaspoon kosher salt

1/8 teaspoon cracked pepper

Serve with a bag of baby carrots, a sliced cucumber, and sweet potato chips or your favorite combination of veggies

 

In the large bowl of a food processor add in the avocados, the white wine vinegar, buttermilk, shallots, parsley, garlic and oil. Blend the ingredients together on high speed until creamy. Then season the dip to taste with salt and pepper.

Creamy & Crunchy & Spicy Tulip Spread

Creamy & Crunchy & Spicy Tulip Spread

Creamy & Crunchy & Spicy Tulip Spread

 

1 C. of cream cheese (pre-whipped makes it easier)

2 T. of minced crow garlic greens or chives (reserve a little for garnish)

2 T. of minced wall-rocket or arugula (reserve a little for garnish)

2 T. of minced tulip petals (reserve a little for garnish)

5-6 washed and prepped celery sticks

Salt & Pepper to taste

 

Place cream cheese in a large bowl and add your pre-minced ingredients. Using a large wooden spoon work the petals and greens thoroughly into the cheese. Add your salt/pepper and taste. Once everything is well blended, transfer to a serving dish. Slather on celery sticks. Garnish with petals and greens.

Bruleed Goat Cheese with Bacon Jam

Bruleed Goat Cheese with Bacon Jam

Bruleed Goat Cheese with Bacon Jam

 

1 pound bacon, cooked, drained and chopped

1 large white onion, julienned

1 C. local honey

1/2 C. sugar

1 C. apple cider vinegar

salt and pepper

 

2 C. goat cheese

6 cloves roasted garlic, pureed

1/2 tsp. white pepper

Turbinado or raw sugar

Herbs for garnish

 

Sweet Potato Chips

 

To prepare Bacon Jam, saute onions in oil until caramelized, about 20 minutes. Add honey, sugar, and vinegar and bring to a strong simmer. Let simmer, stirring occasionally, until the liquid becomes thick and syrupy (about 15 minutes). Reduce heat to low and add bacon. Season with salt and pepper and let cool at least 1 hour before serving. Serve with Bruleed Goat Cheese. Bacon jam will keep for up to 8 days in your refrigerator. To prepare Bruleed Goat Cheese, with a mixer or by hand, mix the goat cheese, roasted garlic, white pepper and salt. Press the mixture into an oven safe ramekin and bake at 400 degrees for 4-5 minutes, until warmed. Sprinkle raw sugar over the top in a thin layer, and brown (brulee) with a torch or place under broiler for 30 seconds. Top with bacon onion jam and serve with sweet potato chips.

Watercress & Wild Garlic Herb Spread

Watercress & Wild Garlic Herb Spread

Watercress & Wild Garlic Herb Spread

 

1 C. watercress leaves, minced

2 stalks wild garlic (or 1 large garlic clove), minced

8 oz. cream cheese, room temperature

4 oz. butter, room temperature

1/2 tsp. each: dried oregano, thyme, marjoram, basil, dill leaves

 

Mix everything together, either by hand, in processor, or mixer. Store in refrigerator, covered, up to 2 weeks.

Blistered Shishito Peppers with Whipped Goat Cheese

Blistered Shishito Peppers with Whipped Goat Cheese

Blistered Shishito Peppers with Whipped Goat Cheese

 

8 ounces shishito peppers

1 T. canola oil

½ tsp. flaked sea salt

4 ounces local goat cheese

1 T. lemon juice

½ tsp. grated lemon zest

 

In a large bowl, toss shishitos in oil. Lay peppers on a large baking sheet and place under the broiler. Broil peppers until they just begin to blister, about 3 minutes. Stir and continue to broil until softened, charred and blistered. To make the whipped goat cheese, place goat cheese, lemon juice and zest in a food processor or blender. Puree until smooth and whipped. (If it’s too thick, add a T. of water). Serve immediately.

Hazelnut-Crusted Chevre with Blackberry” Sage Compote

Hazelnut-Crusted Chevre with Blackberry” Sage Compote

Hazelnut-Crusted Chevre with Blackberry” Sage Compote

 

Compote

2 cups blackberries, fresh or frozen

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1/4 cup finely chopped sage leaves

 

2 cups chevre

2 cups all-purpose flour

3 eggs, lightly beaten

2 cups finely chopped hazelnuts

Vegetable oil spray

 

To make the compote, in a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, cook the blackberries and sugar with the sage until the sugar has dissolved and the fruit is just starting to break down—approximately 15 minutes. The compote should be syrupy and still chunky. To prepare the chevre, separate it into eight evenly sized portions. Using your hands, form each one into a 1-inch-thick disc. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight. Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Set up a dredging station: place the flour, eggs, and hazelnuts in separate shallow bowls. Take the chevre from the fridge and, working with one piece at a time, dip each disc in the flour, coating fully and shaking off any excess; dip in the egg, coating fully and shaking off the excess; and finally, set them on top of the hazelnuts, pressing down slightly to coat. Turn them over to coat the other side as well. Place the hazelnut-crusted chevre discs on the prepared baking sheet and spray them lightly with vegetable oil. Flip them over and spray the other side. Bake for 5 minutes, turn over, and bake for another 5 minutes. Serve hot or cold with the compote on the side. You can store the compote in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. The cooked chevre discs can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Reheat them at 375°F for 10-12 minutes before eating.

Hummus with Blistered Tomatoes and Za’atar

Hummus with Blistered Tomatoes and Za’atar

Hummus with Blistered Tomatoes and Za’atar

 

1 Can Chickpeas – 19oz, Drained and rinsed

½ cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil

4 tablespoon Tahini

2 Lemons, juiced

2 Garlic cloves

1 teaspoon Kosher salt – Adjust as needed

½ teaspoon Cumin – Optional

Topping

1 cup Cherry tomatoes

1 tablespoon Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Za’atar spice – as much or as little as you like

Chopped parsley – Optional

Extra Virgin Olive Oil to drizzle – Optional

 

In a food processor, place drained and rinsed chickpeas, olive oil, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, salt and cumin. Process and scrape the sides down. Because lemons have varying levels of juice, you may need to add more lemon juice to taste. If the hummus is too thick, add more olive oil to loosen it up. Process until very smooth. When you think you’re done processing, process for another 2 minutes. Trust me, this is how you get the creamiest hummus ever. Taste and adjust seasoning Spread humus in a bowl or plate. In a small frying pan, add 1 tablespoon Extra Virgin Olive Oil and cherry tomatoes. Cook on high heat until tomatoes start to blister and pop but not fall apart. This should only take 3-5 minutes, depending on your stove-top. Spoon warm tomatoes over hummus. Sprinkle Za’atar spice mix over the top. Use as much or as little as you like. Sprinkle chopped parley if using. Drizzle Extra Virgin Olive Oil if using. Enjoy with pita or crackers.

Hamlin’s White Sauce

Hamlin’s White Sauce

Hamlin’s White Sauce

 

1/2 cup very finely chopped or processed green olives or salad olives with pimientos

1/2 cup very finely chopped or processed yellow onion

2 cups mayonnaise

1/2 cup Litehouse blue cheese dressing

1/2 tsp. garlic powder

1/3 to 1/4 cup buttermilk, depending on the sauce’s use

 

In a bowl or mason jar, combine the olives, onion, mayonnaise, dressing, and garlic powder. Shake or mix well and refrigerate for 24 hours so the flavors come together. After this, add the buttermilk to your liking—less if you’re making a dip and more if you’re making a salad dressing.

Asian Dipping Sauce

Asian Dipping Sauce

Asian Dipping Sauce

 

1 C. soy sauce

1 (2″) piece of ginger, peeled and finely grated

4 cloves garlic, finely grated

2 T. toasted sesame oil

2 T. rice vinegar

2 T. raw honey or whole cane sugar

1 T. toasted sesame seeds

Pinch of dried dulse flakes (optional)

 

Stir together the soy sauce, ginger, garlic, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and honey and let stand 15-30 minutes before serving. Sprinkle in the sesame seeds and dulse flakes, if using, just before serving. For best flavor, serve immediately, but if you must store the sauce, place it in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

Lemony Turmeric Dressing

Lemony Turmeric Dressing

Lemony Turmeric Dressing

 

1 C. yogurt

2 T. extra-virgin olive oil

1 T. fresh lemon juice

zest from one lemon

1 large clove garlic, minced

1½ tsp. ground turmeric

Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

 

Add all of the ingredients to the pitcher of your high-speed blender. Blend until smooth and creamy. Add additional lemon juice or a little water to thin the dressing, as desired. Add sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper to your liking.

Barbara’s Kumquat Salsa

Barbara’s Kumquat Salsa

Barbara’s Kumquat Salsa

Enjoy with your favorite chips or crackers, or serve with seafood, fish, or chicken. It’s also delicious tucked into a taco.

 

Makes about 2½ C.

 

½ pound (about 2 C.) kumquats

1 shallot, diced

1 jalapeño or serrano, diced

Zest and juice from ½ lime

2 T. olive oil

¼ cup chopped cilantro

Salt and pepper to taste

 

Wash kumquats, thinly slice or dice coarsely, and remove the seeds (as desired). Combine all ingredients in a medium bowl and serve.

Fried Green Plantains with Avocado Black Bean Salsa

Fried Green Plantains with Avocado Black Bean Salsa

Fried Green Plantains with Avocado Black Bean Salsa

 

Juice of 1 lime or 1/2 lemon

1 large or 2 small garlic cloves, minced

1/4 cup (60 ml) olive oil

1 T. chopped fresh cilantro

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

1 large avocado, diced

1 cup (about 175 grams) diced papaya, mango, or pineapple

1 cup (250 grams) cooked black beans, drained and rinsed

 

3 firm green plantains

Vegetable oil, for frying

Salt

 

Whisk the lime juice, garlic, olive oil, cilantro, and salt and pepper in a small bowl. Put the avocado, papaya, and black beans in a larger bowl. Season with salt and pepper and toss with half of the dressing. Taste for seasoning and set aside. Cut off the ends of each plantain so that a small amount of the inner vegetable is exposed. From here, there are many ways to remove the skin. You might be able to peel it with your fingertips, first making a slit from top to the bottom and opening the plantain from the side. You might find it easier to remove the skin in neat sections if you make a few slits down the side. Or, if you have a tough one, you might just use a sharp knife to pare the peel away. If any green skin remains, scrape it off with your knife. Cut each plantain into six to eight 1-inch pieces. Heat 1 inch of oil in a medium-sized heavy skillet over medium-high heat to 325 degrees. If you don’t have the right kind of thermometer, I find plantains forgiving of inexact frying temperatures. As long as they’re not taking more than 5 minutes in the first frying, or not blackening before 2 minutes, you’re probably in a good-enough range.  Add about one plantain’s worth of pieces to the oil, and cook, turning as needed, until they are just a little bit darker in color and hollow sounding when lifted from the oil and tapped, 3 to 5 minutes. Drain them on a large paper-towel-lined plate. Repeat with the remaining plantains in two batches. Using a heavy skillet or the underside of a can, press down on the still-hot fried plantain chunks until they make 2-to-3-inch flattish discs. Return these to the frying pan a handful at a time, and fry until lightly bronzed, about 1 minute more per side. Drain again, and immediately season with salt. Serve the warm plantains with the salad, with the extra dressing on the side to drizzle over the plantains.

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

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

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

 

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

 

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

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

1 1/3 cup (270g) sugar

1 1/3 cup (325ml) water

1 medium organic lemon

1 large green apple, peeled, cored and diced

1/3 cup (80ml) mild honey

 

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

 

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

Garlic Mustard & Olive Oil Bread Dip

Garlic Mustard & Olive Oil Bread Dip

Garlic Mustard & Olive Oil Bread Dip

 

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

1 cup of olive oil (and 3 extra tablespoons)

2 tablespoon of lemon juice

1 tsp. of sea salt

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

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

Directions

 

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

Persimmon Salsa

Persimmon Salsa

Persimmon Salsa

 

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

 

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

2 tablespoons minced white onion, rinsed, drained

1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon fresh lime juice

1 tablespoon minced fresh basil

2 teaspoons minced seeded Serrano chile

2 teaspoons minced fresh mint

1 teaspoon minced peeled fresh ginger

 

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

Cranberry Poblano Salsa

Cranberry Poblano Salsa

Cranberry Poblano Salsa

 

1 red bell pepper

1 poblano chili

1/2 cup sugar, plus more if needed

1/2 cup orange juice

1/4 cup water

12 ounces cranberries

2 T. grated orange peel

1/4 cup chopped toasted pecans

1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Pinch cayenne

Salt

 

Roast the bell pepper and Poblano chile under the broiler until blackened, about 5 minutes per side. Place the peppers in a paper sack or plastic food-storage bag, close it tight and let the chiles steam for 20 minutes. After the chiles have steamed, remove from the bag and rub off the skin. Remove the stems and seeds from the chiles and dice. Meanwhile, place the sugar, orange juice, water, and cranberries into a large saucepan and toss until the sugar is evenly distributed over the cranberries. While occasionally stirring, cook the cranberries over medium-low heat until softened, about 5 minutes. Remove from the heat. Taste and if the cranberries are way too tart for your liking, stir in more sugar, a T. at a time.

Once the peppers are ready, stir them into the cranberry salsa along wit the orange peel, pecans, cilantro, cayenne, and salt. Taste and adjust seasonings. Can serve either warm or chilled. This can be made ahead and will keep 4 days in the refrigerator.

Wild Foraged Black Trumpet Mushroom Spread

Wild Foraged Black Trumpet Mushroom Spread

Wild Foraged Black Trumpet Mushroom Spread

1 T. Ghee or butter

2 T. Garlic Scapes or shallots

1/2 cup coarsely chopped Black Trumpet Mushrooms (cleaned)

8 ounce Cream Cheese (organic, cultured)

1 pinch Sea Salt to taste

1 pinch White Pepper to taste

 

In a skillet over medium/low heat, sauté garlic scapes in ghee until soft. Add in black trumpet mushrooms continue sautéing until mushrooms are cooked through and any liquid is evaporated. Reduce heat to low, add cream cheese (cut or scooped into roughly 1 T. sized chunks). Stirring constantly until the cream cheese is melted and mixed thoroughly. Transfer to a an air tight jar or container and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours prior to allow the flavors to come together. Remove dip from at the refrigerator roughly 30 minutes prior to serving to allow it to warm to room temperature. Serve with crackers, toasted bread or raw vegetables. Notes: Use 1 ounce dried Black Trumpets that have been reconstituted in warm water in place of the fresh.

Herbed Ricotta Dip

Herbed Ricotta Dip

Herbed Ricotta Dip

 

2 cups ricotta cheese

1 clove garlic

2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil plus more to drizzle over dip when served

1 tsp. coarse salt

1/2 tsp. white pepper

1/2 lemon (zest of) and 1 tbsp of the juice

1 bunch fresh herbs (such as oregano, thyme, basil, dill, chives, garlic chives, mint etc.) or 1 heaping tbsp dried herbs (Italian mix or Herbs de Provence)

1-2 cured anchovy fillet (optional)*

1-2 preserved lemon rinds, thin strip(s) (optional)*

 

Mince the garlic and finely chop the fresh herbs. If using anchovy and/or preserved lemon rind, press into a paste using a small fork or pestle and mortar.

Place the ricotta in a mixing bowl and add the rest of the ingredients. Mix and taste to assess flavor. Adjust herbs, olive oil, seasoning to taste, transfer to a serving dish and drizzle with a bit of olive oil before serving.  *These two ingredients if mashed into a paste and folded into the dip add umami depth and really boost the flavor base of the dip. Feel free to increase the quantities to taste.

 

Other optional ingredients: sun dried tomatoes, roasted garlic, smoked paprika, olive tapenade, grated Parmesan or Pecorino.

 

Yield: 6 servings

Calories:  218

Fat: 15g

Fiber: 1g

Herb Whipped Cream Cheese

Herb Whipped Cream Cheese

Herb Whipped Cream Cheese

 

8 oz [230 g] cream cheese, at room temperature

2 T. milk

1/4 tsp. kosher salt

1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

2 T. chopped fresh basil leaves

2 T. chopped fresh chives

1 T. chopped fresh dill

1 tsp. grated lemon zest

 

Place the cream cheese, milk, salt, and pepper in a food processor. Process until the mixture is whipped and creamy, about 30 seconds. Add the basil, chives, dill, and lemon zest and pulse to combine.

 

ROASTED GARLIC AND HERB: Replace the lemon zest with several cloves of smashed roasted garlic.

 

MAPLE CINNAMON: Replace 1 Tbsp of the milk with maple syrup and add 1/4 tsp of cinnamon in place of the lemon zest and herbs.

Creamy Salad Dressing, Three Ways

Creamy Salad Dressing, Three Ways

Creamy Salad Dressing, Three Ways

 

A big salad packed with protein and topped with a homemade creamy salad dressing makes for a satisfying meal. Surprisingly, most creamy dressings share the same base ingredients with just a few changes in seasonings. These versatile dressing recipes can also be used as dips for fresh vegetables, and the Cilantro-Lime Dressing is perfect for drizzling over tacos

 

1 C. mayonnaise

½ C. sour cream

½ C. milk

2 T. lemon juice

1 tsp. kosher salt

¼ tsp. freshly ground black pepper

 

RANCH DRESSING

1½ tsp. dried dill

¼ tsp. paprika

1 garlic clove, minced

 

CREAMY GARLIC DRESSING

2 tsp. Dijon mustard

1 tsp. unseasoned rice vinegar

1 tsp. granulated sugar

2 garlic cloves, minced

 

CILANTRO-LIME DRESSING

Juice and zest of 1 lime

¼ tsp. ground cumin

¼ C. fresh cilantro, minced

1 garlic clove, minced

 

In a bowl, whisk together all of the base dressing ingredients until well combined. Stir in the additional ingredients for the specific dressing you’re making.  Riff: Make ranch recipe and add ½ C. blue cheese crumbles

Ricotta with Pesto Swirl Dip

Ricotta with Pesto Swirl Dip

Ricotta with Pesto Swirl Dip

Creamy ricotta with a pinwheel pattern of fresh basil pesto invites you to dive in with vegetables or Seedy Crackers. Pesto freezes well. It’s a good idea to make a big batch when basil is plentiful in summer and early fall.

 

2 big bunches fresh basil

4 garlic cloves

¼ C. Pine Nuts

1 oz. Parmigiano- Reggiano or Pecorino

½ C. olive oil, plus more for serving

1 lb/450 g ricotta

 

Assemble, prepare, and measure ingredients. Pick basil leaves from stalks and discard stalks. Poach garlic by immersing whole unpeeled cloves in a small pot of cold water; bringing to a boil over medium-high heat, draining, and repeating once. Slip off skins. Heat pine nuts in a small Salt and pepper skillet over medium heat just until golden and aromatic. Grate cheese.  In a blender or food processor, combine three-quarters of the basil leaves with poached garlic cloves, pine nuts, and olive oil. Transfer to a bowl and stir in cheese. Season with salt and pepper. Smooth ricotta in an even layer over a serving plate. Swirl in pesto to make a pinwheel pattern. Scatter remaining basil leaves over top and drizzle with some olive oil. Season with more salt and pepper.

Herbed Goat Cheese and Sun-Dried Tomato Spread

Herbed Goat Cheese and Sun-Dried Tomato Spread

Herbed Goat Cheese and Sun-Dried Tomato Spread

 

½ lb. mild soft goat cheese, softened

3 T. finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes

3 tsp. minced fresh thyme

2 tsp. minced fresh rosemary

1 small shallot, minced

¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil

Finely minced Garlic, optional

Salt and Pepper

 

Stir all ingredients together until smooth, add garlic, salt and pepper to taste. For a smoother texture, process in food processor until smooth and creamy, if desired. Serve on toast or crackers, or your favorite vegetable.

Miso-Turmeric Dressing

Miso-Turmeric Dressing

Miso-Turmeric Dressing

 

â…“ C. unseasoned rice vinegar

¼ C. mirin

¼ C. vegetable oil

2 T. finely grated carrot

2 T. white miso

1 T. finely grated peeled ginger

2 tsp. finely grated peeled turmeric or ½ tsp. ground turmeric

1 tsp. toasted sesame oil

 

Whisk vinegar, mirin, vegetable oil, carrot, miso, ginger, turmeric, and sesame oil in a small bowl.

Do Ahead: Dressing can be made 5 days ahead. Cover and chill.

Avocado with Ginger & Carrot Dressing

Avocado with Ginger & Carrot Dressing

Avocado with Ginger & Carrot Dressing

2 T. water

2 small carrots,, peeled and diced

1/2 shallot,, peeled and roughly chopped

2- inch knob of ginger,, peeled and grated

1/4 C. grape seed oil

2 T. rice wine vinegar

1 T. sesame oil

1 T. sweet white miso paste

1 avocado,, fanned

Sesame seeds,, for topping

 

To a blender or food processor, add the water, carrots, shallot and ginger. Pulse until carrots and shallot are thoroughly minced. Scrape down the sides and with the blender running, pour in the grape seed oil, rice wine vinegar, sesame oil and sweet white miso paste. Allow the blender to run for 30 seconds or so. Give it a taste and adjust the salt to taste. I added just a pinch of salt. To assemble the snack: half an avocado. Peel the avocado and place flesh side down on a cutting board. Slice it thinly and then gently press on the top, fanning it out. Place a liberal T. of dressing onto the plate. Top with the avocado and then garnish with a few sesame seeds and a pinch of salt.

Broccoli & Lemon Pate

Broccoli & Lemon Pate

2 Tablespoon (600 g) medium heads broccoli, stems and florets sliced

2 Tablespoon (180 g) small leeks, sliced, washed well

2 Tablespoon zested, juiced

6 Tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, leaves only

2 Tablespoon cloves, peeled

1 teaspoon sea salt, optional

½ teaspoon ground black pepper

¼ cup (60 ml) extra virgin olive oil, optional

Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).

 

Place the broccoli and leeks into a large bowl. Zest the lemon over the vegetables, then cut the lemon in halve and squeeze the juice onto the vegetables. Add the fresh thyme leaves, garlic clove, salt, pepper and drizzle the olive oil over the vegetables, tossing well to combine. Place mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and cover tray tightly with aluminum foil. Bake for 30-45 minutes or until vegetables are very soft. Place the vegetable mixture into the Vitamix container and secure the lid. Start the blender on its lowest speed and increase to Variable 3. Blend for 30-45 seconds, using the tamper to press ingredients toward the blades.

The Best Blue Cheese Dressing

The Best Blue Cheese Dressing

The Best Blue Cheese Dressing

3/4 tsp. minced garlic

1/4 tsp. dry mustard

1/3 tsp. onion salt

1/3 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

1/8 tsp. freshly ground white pepper

2 T. red wine vinegar

1/2 tsp. Worcestershire sauce

A few drops of Tabasco

1/2 C. sour cream

1 1/2 C. mayonnaise

1/4 C. buttermilk

1/4 pound blue cheese

 

Whisk together in a large bowl the garlic, mustard, peppers, and onion salt. Whisk in the vinegar, Worcestershire, and Tabasco. Whisk in the sour cream, mayonnaise, and buttermilk. Fold in the blue cheese.  It’s best chilled overnight, but I have eaten it immediately, and it’s still good. It keeps for a couple of weeks in the fridge.

Olivada

Olivada

Olivada

1 C. oil-cured olives, about 5 ounces, pitted

1 C. pitted kalamata olives, about 4 ounces

1 C. pitted Castelvetrano olives, about 4 ounces

1/4 C. pine nuts, toasted golden

2 garlic cloves, chopped

2 T. extra-virgin olive oil

1 tsp. finely grated lemon zest

1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

 

Combine all of the ingredients together in a bowl of a food processor. Pulse to finely chop, without making a paste. Transfer to a glass jar or container and refrigerate for at least one hour to let the flavors develop. Serve at room temperature. Store the olivada in the refrigerator for up to 5 days (the flavors will mellow over time).

Seedy Ranch Dressing

Seedy Ranch Dressing

Seedy Ranch Dressing

1/2 C. hemp seeds

1/4 C. raw cashews

1/2 C. unsweetened soy, hemp or almond milk

3 T. fresh lemon juice

1 1/2 T. nutritional yeast

1 tsp. coconut aminos

1 small clove garlic

1/4 tsp. black pepper

1/2 tsp. dried parsley

1/2 tsp. dried dill

 

Blend all ingredients except parsley and dill in a high-powered blender until creamy and smooth.

Additional non-dairy milk can be added if needed to adjust consistency. Add parsley and dill and pulse for a few seconds to combine.

 

Yield: 4 servings

Calories: 154

Far: 11.5g

Fiber: 1.6g

Carbs: 8g

High Kickin’ Creamy Tomato Dressing

High Kickin’ Creamy Tomato Dressing

Creamy Tomato Dressing

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

1 C. yogurt

1 C. sour cream

3 T. apple cider vinegar

3 cloves garlic, peeled & chopped

1 T. ground cumin, preferably freshly ground

1 tsp. ground coriander seeds, preferably freshly ground

1 tsp. chile powder

1/2 tsp. salt

 

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

 

Other ways to enjoy this dressing:

 

Mixed into a Tex-Mex potato salad

Drizzled over a platter of sliced garden tomatoes

Tossed with a green salad

With a plate of grilled summer squash

In your favorite chicken salad

As a quick way to give rice salad a kick

Garbanzo Guacamole

Garbanzo Guacamole

Garbanzo Guacamole

11/2 cups cooked garbanzo beans or 1 (15-ounce) can, no salt added, drained

2 cloves garlic

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 avocado, peeled and cubed

11/2 fresh green chili peppers, minced

1 cup chopped tomato

3/4 cup chopped green onions

1 teaspoon Bragg Liquid Aminos or low-sodium soy sauce

2 tablespoons chopped cilantro

 

In a food processor, puree beans and garlic with lemon juice. Add avocado and chili peppers, pulsing until mixture is fairly smooth with some small chunks. Remove to bowl and stir in tomato, green onions, liquid aminos, and cilantro. Serve with raw vegetables or refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

 

Yield: 3 servings

Calories: 261

Fat: 11g

Fiber: 13.1g

Carbs: 35g

IQS Green Minx Dressing

IQS Green Minx Dressing

IQS Green Minx Dressing

 

1 large avocado

1 large handful of fresh cilantro, including stalks (or you can use parsley, chives, or basil, or a combo)

1 large handful of chopped lettuce

1 small zucchini

2 cloves garlic

2 T. apple cider vinegar

1/4 tsp. each of sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

 

Process all the ingredients in a blender or use an immersion blender and a large mixing bowl. Thin, if required, with a little water.  If you use avocado, this will keep for 3–4 days in the fridge, or it can be frozen for 1–2 months in a freezer-proof airtight continuer, as long as the dressing is totally puréed (lumps make the dressing icy). To use, simply thaw in your refrigerator or in a bowl of cold water. Whisk to bring everything back together and serve cold!

Aji Verde (Peruvian Green Sauce)

Aji Verde (Peruvian Green Sauce)

Aji Verde (Peruvian Green Sauce)

1 whole lime, juiced

2 T. olive oil

1/2 C. good-quality mayonnaise, (such as Hellmann’s)

3 ounces queso fresco or blanco

2 serrano peppers, ends trimmed

1 bunch cilantro (remove leaves from stems for blenders other than vitamix)

4 garlic cloves, peeled

2 green onions, ends trimmed and roughly chopped

2 tsp. huacatay paste, (optional)

1 T. aji amarillo paste, (optional)

1/4 tsp. kosher salt

 

To a blender, add the lime juice, olive oil, cheese, mayonnaise, serrano peppers, cilantro leaves, garlic cloves, green onions, huacatay paste, aji amarillo and salt. Blend for about 1 to 2 minutes, until very smooth. At first the cilantro leaves won’t be totally smooth, but keep the blender running and it will eventually become cohesive and smooth. Give it a taste and adjust the salt according to your liking. Keeps in the fridge for up to a week.

Crudités with Garlic and Anchovy Dressing

Crudités with Garlic and Anchovy Dressing

Crudités with Garlic and Anchovy Dressing

This punchy anchovy-based dressing – similar to the Italian classic bagna cauda – is a year-round favorite of mine and easy to whip up from the sort of ingredients you’re likely to have in your pantry and fridge. It’s a superb accompaniment to all kinds of vegetables – raw or cooked. I love it as a dip for crunchy summer crudités, but I also serve it as a dressing for steamed broccoli, cauliflower, and kale. It will keep happily in a jar in the fridge for at least a couple of weeks. It will probably separate but can be re- emulsified by shaking or whisking.

 

For the dressing:

2 anchovy fillets, drained

2/3 C. olive oil

2 garlic cloves, peeled

Leaves from a sprig of thyme

A few fresh basil leaves (optional)

1/2 small red chile, or a pinch of red pepper flakes

1 tsp. Dijon or English mustard

2 tsp. cider vinegar or wine vinegar

A few grindings of black pepper

 

A selection of raw baby vegetables, such as carrots, zucchini, beets, lettuce hearts, radishes, fresh young peas in pods, and tender celery stalks

 

For the dressing, simply blend all the ingredients together in a blender until completely smooth. Or, if you are using fresh chile, you might prefer to chop it very finely by hand, then stir it into the blended dressing to give it a little texture. Let the dressing stand for half an hour or so, to allow the flavors to mingle and develop, then transfer to a bowl. Prepare the crudités: Halve or quarter lengthwise the lettuce hearts and larger baby vegetables, such as zucchini and carrots. Leave the smaller ones, such as pea pods and radishes, whole. Arrange them on a platter and serve with the dressing.