Browsed by
Tag: PNW

Air Fryer Salmon

Air Fryer Salmon

Air Fryer SalmonAir Fryer Salmon

 

1 skin-on salmon fillet (2½ lb., or 1.2 kg)

½ C. (120 ml) mayonnaise

1 T. salt

1 T. garlic powder

2 tsp. Italian seasoning

Lemon wedges, for serving

 

Preheat an air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Meanwhile, cut the salmon into 6 equal pieces. Brush each piece on the top and sides with the mayonnaise and sprinkle with the salt, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Cook undisturbed for 10 to 15 minutes, until the internal temperature at the thickest part of the fish reaches 145°F (60°C). Serve with lemon wedges for squeezing.

 

Servings: 6
Serving Size: about 5 oz. cooked salmon

Calories: 524
Fat: 39 g
Fiber: 0 g
Protein: 39 g

Brunch Bruschetta Bar

Brunch Bruschetta Bar

Brunch Bruschetta BarBrunch Bruschetta Bar

 

1 batch basil pesto

1 batch Sun-Dried Tomato Muhammara

1 batch marinated cherry tomatoes or 2 C. tomatoes

6-8 soft-boiled or poached eggs

6-8 scrambled eggs

6-8 pieces fried bacon

2-3 cheeses (I used Humboldt Fog goat cheese, ricotta and marinated mozzarella)

grilled or toasted bread

sautéed veggies, such as spinach and mushrooms

fresh fruits

sliced avocado

prosciutto, salami, and smoked salmon

raspberry jam or other fruit jams

nut butter

honey or honeycomb

Brand Orange Juice

 

Arrange the sauces and spreads on a large serving board. Add the poached eggs, scrambled eggs, and bread. Drizzle the poached eggs with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Arrange the cheese, fruits, veggies, meats, jams, nut butter, and honey around the eggs.

 

…Humboldt Fog goat cheese + fresh cherries + honey + basil

…peanut butter + raspberry jam + banana + honey

…Humboldt Fog goat cheese + sautéed spinach and mushrooms + poached egg

…basil pesto + marinated tomatoes + mozzarella + poached eggs + avocado

…ricotta + honey + raspberry jam + fresh raspberries + basil

…basil pesto + avocado + scrambled eggs

…Sun-Dried Tomato Muhammara + mozzarella + basil pesto

…goat cheese + smoked salmon + basil pesto

Sheet Pan Lemon Brown Butter Salmon and Potatoes with Parmesan Asparagus

Sheet Pan Lemon Brown Butter Salmon and Potatoes with Parmesan Asparagus

Sheet Pan Lemon Brown Butter Salmon and Potatoes with Parmesan AsparagusSheet Pan Lemon Brown Butter Salmon and Potatoes with Parmesan Asparagus

 

1 lb. baby potatoes, halved

4 T. extra virgin olive oil

kosher salt and black pepper

1 – 1 1/2 lb. salmon filet

2 T. cajun seasoning

1 T. lemon zest plus 2 T. lemon juice

2 tsp. red wine vinegar

1 C. arugula

1/2 C. fresh basil leaves, roughly torn

1/4 C. fresh dill, roughly torn

1 bunch asparagus, ends trimmed

1/2 C. grated parmesan

4 T. salted butter

 

Preheat oven to 425° F. On a large baking sheet, combine the potatoes, 2 T. olive oil, and a pinch each of salt and pepper. Toss well to coat. Bake for 15 minutes. Remove the potatoes from the oven. Add the salmon to the center of the pan (if the salmon is large, cut it into smaller portions). Rub 1 T. olive oil and the cajun seasoning. Add the asparagus to the pan and toss with the parmesan. Bake everything together for 10-15 minutes or until the salmon has reached your desired doneness. In a bowl, whisk together the lemon zest, red wine vinegar, and 1 T. olive oil. Season with salt and pepper. Add the arugula, basil, dill, and a pinch of chili flakes. Toss to combine. Add the butter to a medium pot set over medium heat. Allow the butter to brown, until it smells toasted, about 2-3 minutes. Stir often. Remove from the heat and stir in 1 T. lemon juice. Serve the salmon, potatoes, and asparagus together with the arugula salad on top. Drizzle the brown butter over the salmon. Notes: Homemade Cajun Seasoning: mix 2 1/2 T. smoked paprika, 2 T. garlic powder, 1 T. onion powder, 1 T. dried oregano, 1 T. dried thyme, 1 T. chili powder, 1 T. cayenne pepper, 1 1/2 T. kosher salt, and 1 T. black pepper. Makes 3/4 C.

Honey Garlic Salmon Soba Noodle Bowls

Honey Garlic Salmon Soba Noodle Bowls

Honey Garlic Salmon Soba Noodle BowlsHoney Garlic Salmon Soba Noodle Bowls

 

1/2 C. soy sauce or tamari

1/3 C. honey

1 T. Gochujang (Korean chile paste)

1 T. grated ginger

2 cloves garlic, chopped

4 (4 oz.) salmon filets

2 T. extra virgin olive oil

1/2 lb. Brussels sprouts, halved

2 small heads broccoli, cut into florets

kosher salt and black pepper

1 package soba noodles

1/3 C. tamari or soy sauce

1/4 C. tahini

2 T. toasted sesame oil

1 T. grated ginger

red pepper flakes

4 green onions, sliced

toasted sesame seeds and pickled ginger, for serving

 

Preheat the oven to 425° F. In a square baking dish, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, Gochujang, ginger, and garlic. Add the salmon and let sit. On a baking sheet, toss together the brussels sprouts, broccoli, olive oil, and a pinch each of salt and pepper. Bake 20 minutes, until the brussels sprouts are charring. Meanwhile, make the noodles. Bring a pot of water to a boil, scoop out 1/4 C. hot water, reserve. Cook the noodles according to package directions. Drain. In a glass jar or measuring cup, whisk together the soy sauce, tahini, sesame oil, ginger, chili, and a 1/4 C. hot water until combined. Toss the noodles with the sauce. Put the salmon in the oven and bake for 5-15 minutes, until the salmon reaches desired doneness. Remove the vegetables, spoon the sauce over the salmon. Switch the oven to broil. Broil the salmon until crisping on top and the sauce is thickening. Watch close. Divide the noodles between bowls. Top with salmon, vegetables, green onions, pickled ginger, and sesame seeds. Spoon any remaining sauce over the salmon.

 

Servings: 4
Serving Size: 1 bowl (1 salmon filet with noodles and vegetables)

Calories: 888
Fat: 38 g
Fiber: 9 g
Protein: 45 g

Spicy Honey Balsamic Salmon Bowls

Spicy Honey Balsamic Salmon Bowls

Spicy Honey Balsamic Salmon BowlsSpicy Honey Balsamic Salmon Bowls

 

1/3 C. balsamic vinegar

4 T. honey

2 T. tamari/soy sauce

2 cloves garlic, chopped

1 tsp. dried thyme

1 tsp. dried oregano

chili flakes

4 filets (4 oz.) salmon, cut into bite-size chunks

1 bunch asparagus, ends trimmed

2 T. olive oil or sesame oil

salt and black pepper

2 avocados, diced

2 T. lemon juice

2 T. toasted nuts/seeds

1/2 C. mixed herbs, chopped I use dill and basil

1/2 C. crumbled feta

 

Preheat the oven to 450° F. In a saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar, honey, tamari/soy sauce, garlic, thyme, oregano, and chili flakes. Set over medium heat. Bring to a boil for 3-4 minutes, until the sauce bubbles and begins to thicken. Remove from the heat. On a baking sheet, toss the salmon with half of the balsamic sauce and arrange in an even layer. Arrange the asparagus around the salmon, toss with 1 T. of oil and season with salt and pepper. Bake for 10-15 minutes or until the salmon is cooked to your liking. During the last minute, switch the oven to broil and broil until lightly caramelized. Toss the salmon with the remaining balsamic sauce. Meanwhile, combine the avocado with 1 T. of oil, lemon juice, herbs, nuts/seeds, and feta in a bowl. Season with salt. Spoon the asparagus and salmon over the bowls of rice. Top with lots of the avocado/feta salad mix. Enjoy!

Morel and Spring Vegetable Hash

Morel and Spring Vegetable Hash

Morel and Spring Vegetable HashMorel and Spring Vegetable Hash

 

This hearty vegetarian hash kicks off spring by combining English peas, baby spinach, morels, and spring onions with crispy potatoes. Farmers harvest mild spring onions before the bulbs grow to full size; they have small white or deep purple bulbs and tall green tops. (Use two sweet onions if you can’t find spring onions.) Morels are my favorite mushroom to use in this hash, but you can also substitute your favorite mushroom if you don’t want to splurge on morels. Serve the hash on its own or dish it up with poached eggs and toast to make it a more substantial meal.

 

4 large red potatoes, cut into 1/2-inch pieces

1/4 C. extra-virgin olive oil

1 T. finely chopped fresh rosemary

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

1/2 lb. fresh morel mushrooms

2 T. unsalted butter

1/2 lb. asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1 -inch pieces

4 spring onions, trimmed and cut into %-inch rings

2 garlic cloves, finely chopped

2 T. finely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley

2 T. finely chopped fresh thyme

Finely grated zest and freshly squeezed juice of 1/2 lemon

1/2 lb. fresh or frozen shelled English peas

4 C. tightly packed baby spinach

 

Arrange a rack in the center of the oven and preheat the oven to 400°F. In a medium bowl, toss the potatoes with the oil, rosemary, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Transfer the potatoes to a large baking sheet and roast for 30 minutes or until crispy and fork-tender. Remove the potatoes from the oven and set aside. Bring a medium pot of salted water to a boil. Add the morels and boil for 10 seconds. (This cleans the morels and kills any worms or spores that might be in them.) Using a slotted spoon, transfer the morels to a cutting board. Pat the morels dry, halve them, and set aside. In a 12-inch cast-iron skillet set over medium heat, melt the butter and cook until blond. Add the asparagus and spring onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions start to wilt and the asparagus gets a little color on it, about 3 minutes. Add the garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden brown, about 1 minute. Add the morels, cover the skillet, and cook until the morels release their natural juices, about 1 minute. Remove the lid from the skillet and add the potatoes, parsley, thyme, lemon zest, and lemon juice and stir to combine. Add the peas and spinach, stir to combine, and cook, stirring frequently, until the spinach wilts, about 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Using a large serving spoon, divide the hash among four to six large bowls or plates. Now eat.

 

Servings: 4
Serving Size: 1/4 of hash (about 2 C.)

Calories: 484
Fat: 21 g
Fiber: 13 g
Protein: 14 g

Summer Charcuterie

Summer Charcuterie

Summer Charcuterie

 

1 2 oz burrata

3 oz Boursin cheese

1 wedge Manchego cheese

1 small wedge Creamy Tuscano cheese

4 oz Brie cheese

4 oz goat cheese

½ c blueberries

¼ English cucumber, sliced

¼ c smoked salmon and dill dip

4 sheets prosciutto, torn

¼ c pistachios

¼ c mixed nuts

¼ c marcona almonds

1 nectarine

2-3 plumcots, sliced

¼ yellow watermelon, cubed

4-6 Parmesan crostini crackers

15 gluten free Milton’s Crackers

15 seed and grain cracker squares

15 sea salt crackers

Olive oil to drizzle

Gluten Free Strawberry Rhubarb Scones

Gluten Free Strawberry Rhubarb Scones

Strawberry Rhubarb Scones

 

6 T.  non-dairy milk (I used oat milk)

2 tsp. apple cider vinegar (you could sub lemon juice)

2 cups Bobs Red Mill all-purpose gluten-free flour (In the dark red bag)

½ cup sugar

2 tsp. baking powder

½ tsp. baking soda

½ tsp. xanthum gum

1 tsp. kosher salt

6 T.  cold vegan butter cut into chunks

½ cup strawberries cut into slices and then halved

½ cup rhubarb sliced into small pieces

Vanilla Glaze:

¾ cup powdered sugar

1 tsp. vanilla extract

1 T.  non-dairy milk (I used oat milk)

 

Pre-heat the oven to 400 degrees and prepare a sheet pan with parchment or a silpat. In a small bowl, combine the unsweetened coconut milk and the apple cider vinegar and set aside. In the bowl of a food processor combine all of the dry ingredients and pulse to combine. Pulse in the vegan butter until it is well combined into the dry ingredients. Stream in the milk while running the food processor and pulse it until the dough comes together into a ball. Transfer the dough to your work surface and shape into a disc. Using your hands, pull the disc in half across the middle. This will make it more rustic, but you get the rhubarb and strawberries distributed through the dough instead of just in the middle. Shape the dough back together on the top and shape into a disc. Then slice the disc into 6 wedges and transfer them to your prepared sheetpan. Bake the scones for 14 minutes until golden. Let them cool slightly and then drizzle with the Vanilla Glaze.

 

Servings: 6
Serving Size: 1 scone

Calories: 413
Fat: 13 g
Fiber: 5 g
Protein: 4 g

Salmon with Corn, Pea Tendrils and Green Garlic Butter

Salmon with Corn, Pea Tendrils and Green Garlic Butter

Salmon with Corn, Pea Tendrils and Green Garlic Butter

.75 lb. salmon fillet, skin on one side
Olive oil spray
Salt and fresh-ground black pepper
2 T. unsalted butter
1/4 cup green garlic, white and tender green parts finely chopped
1 T. lemon juice

 

Preheat oven broiler with rack positioned about 5 inches from element. Place salmon fillet skin-side down on oiled, rimmed baking sheet. Spray fish with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Broil 10 minutes, turning fish over after the first 5 minutes. Let cool and remove skin. To make the green garlic butter, heat a small frying pan over medium heat. Add butter and green garlic and sauté a couple minutes until soft but not brown, reducing heat if needed to prevent burning. Add lemon juice and season with salt and pepper (makes about 1/4 cup).

Pea Tendrils

Smoky Corn with Green Garlic Butter

 

Servings: 2
Serving Size: 1/2 fillet (about 5 oz.) with 2 T. garlic butter (linked sides not included)

Calories: 431
Fat: 33 g
Fiber: 0 g
Protein: 32 g

5 Ways Kabobs + Marinades

5 Ways Kabobs + Marinades

5 Ways Kabobs + Marinades5 Ways Kabobs + Marinades

 

Lager Marinade

Protein: chicken, beef, pork

1 bottle (12 oz.) lager beer

2 garlic cloves, minced

2 T. brown sugar

1/2 tsp. kosher salt

3/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

1 T. olive oil

Tuscan Marinade

Protein: chicken, pork

4 garlic cloves, crushed with press

6 T. fresh lemon juice

3 T. finely chopped fresh basil leaves

1 T. anchovy paste

1/2 tsp. kosher salt

3/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

1/3 C. extra virgin olive oil

Orange-Ginger Marinade

Protein: chicken, pork, fish, seafood

4 garlic cloves, minced

1 C. fresh orange juice

1/4 C. less-sodium soy sauce

2 T. grated peeled fresh ginger

2 T. rice vinegar

1 T. packed light brown sugar

2 tsp. orange zest

1/4 tsp. ground white pepper

1/4 C. vegetable oil

Pineapple-Coconut Marinade

Protein: chicken, fish, seafood

1 garlic clove, minced

1/2 C. pineapple juice

1/3 C. light coconut milk

1/4 C. fresh lime juice

2 T. honey

2 T. canola oil

Chimichurri Marinade

Protein: chicken, beef, pork, fish, seafood

(use a blender or food processor

4 garlic cloves

2 green onions, coarsely chopped

1/4 C. packed fresh cilantro leaves

1/4 C. packed fresh Italian parsley leaves

1/4 C. white wine vinegar

1 tsp. oregano leaves

3/4 tsp. kosher salt

1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

1/4 tsp. ground red pepper

3/4 C. extra virgin olive oil

 

Cut protein and vegetables into same-sized pieces (about 1-inch) so they cook evenly. Thread protein and vegetables separately on skewers due to varied cooking times. Use a food processor or blender to purée ingredients like garlic, onion or chile peppers, then drizzle in the oil to blend. Use about 1/2 C. of marinade per lb. of meat or vegetables. Marinate proteins and vegetables separately in zip-top plastic bags; be sure to reserve some of the marinade for serving. Used marinade must be discarded. When marinade contains an acid or citrus juice, marinate shrimp and fish 15 to 30 minutes, scallops 30 minutes to 1 hour, chicken, pork and beef 2 to 6 hours, and vegetables 2 to 8 hours. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20 minutes to prevent them from burning. Grill kabobs over medium heat, turning them every few minutes. After removing kabobs from the grill, tent with aluminum foil and let them rest for 5 minutes. The internal temperature will rise 5 to 10° upon standing (known as carryover cooking). To ensure the correct desired doneness, remove the kabobs from the grill 5° below the desired final internal temperature. Final internal temperatures: Chicken: 165°; Seafood, Fish, Pork, Beef: 145° (medium-rare for beef). Serve over greens such as baby kale, baby spinach or spring mix, or grains like brown rice, couscous, quinoa or cauliflower rice.

 

Ideas

Proteins:

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts

• Fish such as salmon, swordfish or tuna

• Lean beef such as sirloin steak or sirloin tip

• Lean pork such as tenderloin or boneless pork chops

• Raw 16/20 count tail-on peeled shrimp

• Scallops

• Tofu

Vegetables/Fruits:

• Acorn or butternut squash (diced and par-cooked)

• Asparagus

• Baby potatoes (halved and par-cooked)

• Bell peppers

• Brussels sprouts (blanched)

• Cherry tomatoes

• Corn on the cob (wheels)

• Eggplant

• Fresh mango

• Jalapeño peppers

• Jicama

• Lemon, lime or orange

• Mushrooms

• Pineapple

• Red/yellow onion

• Sweet potatoes (diced and par-cooked)

• Summer squash

• Zucchini

For Dipping:

• Avocado mashed with Greek yogurt and fresh lime juice

• Chili-garlic sauce

• Harissa

• Hoisin

• Hummus

• Olive tapenade

• Pesto

• Puréed roasted red peppers

• Tzatziki

Rainier Cherry Almond Preserves

Rainier Cherry Almond Preserves

Rainier Cherry Almond PreservesRainier Cherry Almond Preserves

 

2 1/2 lb. Rainier cherries pitted

2 C. sugar

1/4 C. lemon juice

1 1/2 tsp. almond extract

 

Prepare a boiling water bath canner and enough jars to hold five half pints (the yield will be somewhere between 4 and 5 half pints). Place the pitted cherries in a pan that holds at least five quarts (these cherries will foam a lot) and add the sugar and lemon juice. Stir to help the sugar dissolve. Once the contents of the pan look juicy, place it on the stove over high heat. Bring the cherries and their liquid to a boil and let them cook at a good clip for 5 to 6 minutes, until cherries soften a little and the liquid in the pan as thickened a bit. Add the almond extract. Remove pan from heat, funnel cherries and syrup into prepared jars, leaving 1/2 inch headspace. Use a wooden chopstick to remove any trapped air bubbles and adjust the headspace as is necessary. Wipe the rims, apply the lids and rings, and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. When the time is up, remove the jars and set them on a folded kitchen towel to cool. When the jars have cooled enough that you can comfortably handle them, check the seals. Sealed jars can be stored at room temperature for up to a year. Any unsealed jars should be refrigerated and used promptly.

 

Servings: 64
Serving Size: 1 T.

Calories: 36
Fat: 0 g
Fiber: 0 g
Protein: 0 g

Mother’s Day Wedge Salad Bar

Mother’s Day Wedge Salad Bar

Mother’s Day Wedge Salad Bar

 

3 heads iceberg lettuce, cut in quarters

1 lb. baby bay shrimp, rinsed and drained

1 jar sweet red peppers, I use DeLallo

2 avocado, chopped in chunks

3/4 C. feta cheese

3/4 C. cucumbers, chopped

8 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled

Fresh chives, finely chopped

Fresh dill, finely chopped

Favorite salad dressing

 

Cut the iceberg lettuce heads in half, and then in half again, removing the core from each piece. Place all the pieces on a platter. Arrange the other items in individual serving dishes. Pour salad dressing into small pitcher. Serve!

Salmon with Green Garlic Butter

Salmon with Green Garlic Butter

Salmon with Green Garlic Butter

 

.75 lb. salmon fillet, skin on one side

Olive oil spray

Salt and fresh-ground black pepper

2 tbsp. unsalted butter

1/4 cup green garlic, white and tender green parts finely chopped

1 tbsp. lemon juice

 

Preheat oven broiler with rack positioned about 5 inches from element. Place salmon fillet skin-side down on oiled, rimmed baking sheet. Spray fish with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Broil 10 minutes, turning fish over after the first 5 minutes. Let cool and remove skin. To make the green garlic butter, heat a small frying pan over medium heat. Add butter and green garlic and sauté a couple minutes until soft but not brown, reducing heat if needed to prevent burning. Add lemon juice and season with salt and pepper (makes about 1/4 cup).

 

Servings: 2
Serving Size: 1/2 fillet (about 5 oz.) with 2 T. garlic butter

Calories: 431
Fat: 33 g
Fiber: 0 g
Protein: 32 g

Pan-Fried Razor Clams

Pan-Fried Razor Clams

Pan-Fried Razor Clams

 

1 cup all-purpose flour

Coarse salt and freshly-ground pepper to taste

3 eggs, beaten

1 (3.25-ounce) package Panko (Japanese-style crumbs), approximately 2 1/4 cups

1 pound medium-size razor clams (fresh or frozen), cleaned*

1 cup vegetable oil

Lemon slices

Cocktail sauce

 

Place the flour in a pie pan and season with salt and pepper.  Whisk the eggs in a second pie pan and place the Panko crumbs in a third pie pan. Dry the clams thoroughly with a paper towel.  NOTE:  If you proceed without the clams being dry, breading will not adhere to the clams well, and wet clams steaks will result in LOTS of splattering of the hot oil. Tenderize clams by pounding with the textured side of a meat mallet – pay particular attention to the tough siphon end.  NOTE: Be careful, as you want the clams to remain in one piece. Dredge a clam in the flour mixture, dip in beaten egg, then coat both sides with Panko crumbs.  Place breaded clam on a rack or plate; repeat process with remaining clams.  Let clams stand for 20 to 30 minutes for the breading set up. While the clams are resting, heat the vegetable oil in a heavy frying pan cast-iron pan is ideal) over medium-high heat.  Add the butter.  Heat the oil (but not so hot as to smoke). When the oil is hot, use tongs or a spatula to carefully add the clams.  Do not crowd the clams.  Fry for not more than 30 seconds, then flip the clams for continue cooking for an additional 30 second on the other side.  NOTE:  It is important not to overcook the clams or they will be tough. Allow the oil to heat back up in between each round of cooking your clams. Remove the clams from the pan with a slotted spoon and place on a paper-towel lined plate.  Repeat until all clams are cooked and serve as soon as possible while warm.  Serve Pan-Fried Razor Clams with lemon slices and your favorite Cocktail Sauce or Tartar Sauce.

Northwest Pan-Fried Razon Clam

Northwest Pan-Fried Razon Clam

Northwest Pan-Fried Razon Clam

 

30 saltine cracker squares

2 eggs

1/4 cup milk

Dash Tabasco sauce or to taste

24 medium-size fresh or frozen razor clams, cleaned*

3 T.  vegetable oil

3 T.  butter

Coarse salt and freshly-ground pepper to taste

Lemon slices

Cocktail sauce

 

Crush the crackers with a rolling pin.  Do not use a food processor which will spin the cracker too fine.  Place the prepared crumbs in a shallow platter: set aside. In a shallow platter, beat the eggs together.  Beat in the milk and Tabasco sauce: set aside. Dry the clams thoroughly with a paper towel.  NOTE: If you proceed without the clams being dry, breading will not adhere to the clams well, and wet clams steaks will result in LOTS of splattering of the hot oil. Tenderize clams by pounding with the textured side of a meat mallet – pay particular attention to the tough siphon end.  NOTE: Be careful, as you want the clams to remain in one piece. Dip each clam in the egg mixture; drain off any excess.  Then place each clam in the crumbs to coat.  Place breaded clam on a rack or plate; repeat process with remaining clams.  Let clams stand for 20 to 30 minutes so the breading will set up. While the clams are resting, heat the vegetable oil in a heavy frying pan (cast-iron pan is ideal) over medium-high heat. Add the butter.  Heat the oil (but not so hot as to smoke). Give the oil plenty of time to heat up and make sure it is at the right temperature before you begin.  If it is too cool, the clams will soak up oil and be greasy.  If it is too hot, the clams will burn on the outside before the inside is cooked.  Most foods are fried at 350 degrees F.  To gauge the temperature, use a Cooking Thermometer or drop a cube of bread in the oil.  If it turns golden brown in 1 minute, the oil is ready to fry in. When the oil is hot, use tongs or a spatula to carefully add the clams.  Do not crowd the clams. Fry for not more than 30 seconds, then flip the clams for continue cooking for an additional 30 second on the other side.  NOTE: It is important not to overcook the clams or they will be tough. Allow the oil to heat back up in between each round of cooking your clams. Remove the clams from the pan with a slotted spoon and place on a paper-towel lined plate, sprinkle with salt and pepper. Repeat until all clams are cooked and serve as soon as possible while warm.  Serve with lemon slices and your favorite Cocktail Sauce or Tartar Sauce.

Parsnips with Prosciutto & Hazelnuts

Parsnips with Prosciutto & Hazelnuts

Parsnips with Prosciutto & HazelnutsParsnips with Prosciutto & Hazelnuts

 

1 lb. parsnips, peeled and sliced in half

9 oz. of good quality prosciutto or speck

1 T. red wine vinegar

1 tsp. Dijon mustard

3 T. olive oil

handful of toasted hazelnuts

2 T. currants (raisins are ok too)

chopped fresh flat leaf parsley

sea salt & pepper

 

Whisk 3 T. olive oil with the vinegar and mustard.  Season with sea salt & pepper and set aside. Roast the parsnips:   Peel and slice the parsnips in half and lay on a baking sheet (line with parchment paper for easy cleanup).   Drizzle w/ olive oil and sprinkle with kosher salt & pepper.  Roast in a 400F oven for about 20-25 minutes, turning once. Add the cooked parsnips to a large platter.   Drape the prosciutto around the parsnips and add the currants. Drizzle some dressing over the salad (you can use the leftover dressing tomorrow or the next day, keep in the fridge). Sprinkle with the toasted, chopped hazelnuts and fresh flat leaf parsley.   A sprinkle of sea salt to taste before serving.

Poached Leeks w/ Ricotta, Lemon, Hazelnuts & Mint

Poached Leeks w/ Ricotta, Lemon, Hazelnuts & Mint

Poached Leeks w/ Ricotta, Lemon, Hazelnuts & MintPoached Leeks w/ Ricotta, Lemon, Hazelnuts & Mint

 

2-4 leeks, washed (white parts only)

2 T. olive oil

kosher salt

fresh ricotta

mint leaves

toasted hazelnuts

juice and zest of a lemon

 

Lay the leeks in a pan with olive oil and season with kosher salt. Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil and then cover with the lid. You want a tight seal. Cook the leeks in a 250F oven for 30 minutes, until they cut easily with a fork. Remove the leeks to a platter. Place blobs of ricotta on top and zest of a lemon over the ricotta. Next, toast the hazelnuts in a toaster oven (careful, they burn easily) and scatter them over the salad. Garnish with mint leaves. Squeeze some lemon juice over just before serving. Season with sea salt & pepper.

Appetizer Platter

Appetizer Platter

Appetizer PlatterAppetizer Platter

 

Ingredients

Mustard-Tenderloin Toast

melba toast

creamy and grainy Dijon mustard

thinly sliced seared beef tenderloin

parsley

Garden Vegetable Crackers

fresh snipped chives

low-fat cream cheese

heart-shaped crackers

organic baby carrots

Peach-Glazed Brie & Chicken Rounds

brie

peach marmalade or preserves

sliced, grilled chicken

melba rounds

fresh rosemary

Cucumber Rye Sandwiches

plain cream cheese

cocktail rye

English cucumbers

fresh chives

Smoked Salmon & Cream Cheese Crackers

plain cream cheese

heart-shaped crackers

smoked salmon

lemon

fresh dill

 

Mustard-Tenderloin Toast: Spread melba toast with a mixture of creamy and grainy Dijon mustard. Top with thinly sliced seared beef tenderloin and parsley.

Garden Vegetable Crackers: Stir fresh snipped chives into low-fat cream cheese. Spread on heart-shaped crackers. Garnish with slivers of organic baby carrots.

Peach-Glazed Brie & Chicken Rounds: Remove top rind from brie. Top with peach marmalade or preserves. Loosely cover with foil and bake in 325°F oven for 15 minutes to melt. Place 1-inch pieces of sliced, grilled chicken on melba rounds. Top with glazed Brie and fresh rosemary.

Cucumber Rye Sandwiches: Spread plain cream cheese on cocktail rye. Top with sliced English cucumbers and fresh chives.

Smoked Salmon & Cream Cheese Crackers: Spread plain cream cheese on heart-shaped crackers. Top with smoked salmon, lemon and fresh dill.

Baked Honey Cilantro Lime Salmon in Foil

Baked Honey Cilantro Lime Salmon in Foil

Baked Honey Cilantro Lime Salmon in Foil

 

1 large salmon fillet

salt and pepper – to taste

½ cup butter – melted

juice of 2 limes – (plus one lime, thinly sliced)

4 T. honey

1 T. minced garlic

 

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line and grease a large baking sheet with foil. Lay salmon on foil and season with salt and pepper on both sides to taste. Slip lime slices underneath the salmon.

Stir together butter, lime juice, honey, and garlic. Pour mixture over salmon. Fold sides of foil up over the salmon (don’t worry if it doesn’t cover the salmon completely).  Bake for 15-20 minutes. Switch oven to broil and cook another 5 minutes. Sprinkle chopped cilantro over the top and serve.

Oregon Stuffing

Oregon Stuffing

Oregon Stuffing

 

8 cups 1/2-inch sourdough bread cubes (can leave the crust on)

1/2 cup hazelnuts filberts

4 thick bacon strips (about 6 oz.)

2 T. unsalted butter

1 yellow onion, diced

2 celery stalks, diced

1 tart apple (such as Granny Smith), peeled, cored and diced

2 T. chopped fresh sage

2 T. chopped flat-leaf parsley

1 T. chopped fresh tarragon

1/3 cup dried blueberries

Seasoned salt and fresh-ground black pepper to taste

1 cup medium-bodied Oregon beer, not too hoppy (such as Widmer pale ale)

1 cup low-sodium chicken broth

2 eggs, lightly beaten

Seasoned salt and fresh-ground black pepper to taste

Olive oil

 

Preheat oven to 300 F. Spread the bread cubes evenly on a baking sheet. Bake in the oven for about 12 minutes. Remove from oven and set on the counter to cool and continuing drying out. Increase oven temperature to 350 F. Heat a medium frying pan over medium-low heat. Toast the filberts until they are fragrant and starting to brown. Remove nuts from pan, pour onto a kitchen towel, fold towel over nuts and rub to remove skins. (note: because the skins won’t come off of all the nuts, I usually toast about twice as much as I need and save the nuts with the skins for another use, such as snacking.) Heat a large frying pan over medium heat. Cook the bacon until browned and crisp. Remove from pan and chop into bits. Remove residual bacon fat from pan. Melt butter in the pan. Add onion, celery and apple, and sauté until softened, about 10 minutes. Set aside. In a large bowl, combine dried bread cubes, filberts, onions, celery, apples, herbs, blueberries, bacon, seasoned salt and pepper. Pour beaten eggs, beer and chicken broth over mixture. Stir to evenly coat all ingredients. Transfer to a lightly oiled 9 X 13 baking dish. Bake for about 40-45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes until the mixture is cooked through (internal temperature of 165 F) and lightly browned on top.

 

Servings: 12
Serving Size: 1/12 of 9 x 13 pan

Calories: 187
Fat: 9 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 7 g

Chanterelles and Scrambled Eggs on Toast

Chanterelles and Scrambled Eggs on Toast

Chanterelles and Scrambled Eggs on Toast

 

8–10 ounce Chanterelle mushrooms

4 large eggs

2 T.  extra-virgin olive oil

sea salt (as needed)

1–2 clove garlic (peeled and minced)

¼ cup chopped flat leaf parsley

freshly cracked black pepper

1 T.  unsalted butter (at room temperature, divided)

2 slice rustic bread (toasted and buttered)

 

Gently clean the chanterelles then pull them apart lengthwise into evenly sized strips. It’s a small detail but tearing as opposed to slicing lets the heat get to a lot more edges of the mushroom creating a more interesting texture. Set aside. Crack eggs into a medium bowl and add a pinch of sea salt. Use a whisk to whip the eggs until uniformly pale yellow in color, about 30 seconds. Set aside. Heat a 12-inch sauté pan with a lid over medium-high heat add olive oil and swirl the pan to completely coat the bottom. Lay the torn chanterelles in as close to a single layer as possible. Let them cook undisturbed until they begin to brown at the edges, about 3 minutes. Stir, then cook undisturbed for another 2 to 3 minutes until golden brown. Stir in the garlic, parsley, and a few grinds of black pepper, and cook, stirring, another minute or so until the garlic is fragrant. Remove from heat add 2 T.  butter and stir until melted. Cover and set aside in a warm place. Melt the remaining 1 T.  butter in an 8‑inch nonstick slope-sided skillet set over medium-low heat. When the butter is completely melted and beginning to foam pour the eggs into the center of the skillet and cook, without stirring, until a thin layer of cooked egg appears around the edge of the skillet. Then, using a small rubber spatula scrape the cooked edges of the eggs around the circumference of the skillet then use the spatula to loosen the eggs in the center. Keep the eggs moving constantly until creamy. Cut any thick curds that form with the spatula. Do not stop stirring, or leave the skillet’s side for more than a few seconds. I like to remove them from the heat when they’re still a bit runny on the top. The whole process should take less than 2 minutes. Immediately top the buttered toast slices with the warm soft eggs, then spoon some of the garlicky mushrooms over the eggs. Finish with a sprinkle with sea salt and a grind of black pepper. Serve immediately.

Honey Garlic Salmon Bowls

Honey Garlic Salmon Bowls

Honey Garlic Salmon BowlsHoney Garlic Salmon Bowls

 

3 T. sesame oil

2 lb. salmon, cut into bite-sized pieces

½ tsp. salt

½ tsp. freshly ground black pepper

6-8 cloves garlic, minced

1 inch knob fresh ginger, grated

3 T. honey

1-2 T. chili garlic paste (sambal oelek)

¼ C. soy sauce

¼ C. chicken or vegetable broth

2 fresh mangoes, peeled and cubed

¼ C. fresh cilantro, chopped

1 jalapeno, seeds removed, finely chopped

1 lime, juiced

Steamed rice for serving

Lime wedges for serving

 

Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet and season the salmon with salt and pepper. Place the salmon pieces, skin-side down in the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes before flipping to the other side. You may need to work in batches to cook all the salmon. Once it’s done, transfer to a plate. Add the garlic and ginger to the skillet and cook for a few minutes. Add the honey, chili garlic paste, soy sauce, and broth. Cook for a few minutes to allow it to thicken. Add the salmon to the sauce and cook for a few minutes in the sauce. While the salmon is cooking, make the mango salsa. In a medium bowl, mix together the mango, cilantro, jalapeno, and lime juice. The salsa can be made in advance! Serve the salmon over steamed rice with mango salsa on the side. Enjoy!

 

Servings: 6
Serving Size: about 5 oz. salmon with sauce and mango (rice not included)

Calories: 463
Fat: 27 g
Fiber: 1 g
Protein: 32 g

Jammy Egg Crostini with Lemon Mustard Sauce

Jammy Egg Crostini with Lemon Mustard Sauce

Jammy Egg Crostini with Lemon Mustard SauceJammy Egg Crostini with Lemon Mustard Sauce

 

8-10 large eggs

3/4 C. good quality mayonnaise

1 tsp. dijon mustard (See Notes)

1 1/2 tsp. grainy or old style mustard (See Notes)

1/4 tsp. kosher salt

1/8 tsp. black pepper

Zest from half of a lemon

3 T. freshly squeezed lemon juice (from one large lemon)

1 small baguette, sliced, and grilled

Fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, basil, and/or sage)

Avocado, sliced thinly

Smoked salmon or lox, thinly sliced

Basil Pesto

Red Onion or shallot, sliced very thinly

Additional kosher salt and black pepper for finishing

 

Bring a medium sized pot filled with water to a boil. Note: When adding the eggs to the pot, they should be covered with an inch of water. Add eggs and tightly cover pan. Cook for 7 minutes. Immediately remove from heat and drain water. Place eggs in a bowl of cold water to stop the cooking process as well as to make them easier to peel. Let eggs rest for 5 minutes. While eggs are resting, make the Lemon Mustard Sauce. In a medium sized bowl combine the mayonnaise, two kinds of mustards, kosher salt, black pepper, lemon zest, and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Whisk until well blended. Taste and adjust season if needed. Note: The sauce should have a pourable consistency. Peel eggs and cut into quarters. Depending on the size of the crostini, you will need 2 to 3 quarters for each one. For the Smoked Salmon Crostini, place a cover of thin slices of smoked salmon on top of the crostini. Top with 2 or 3 jammy egg quarters. Drizzle with Lemon Mustard Sauce. Lightly sprinkle additional kosher salt and black pepper on top. Top with fresh thyme leaves. For the Basil Pesto Crostini, spread some basil pesto on the crostini. Top with 2 or 3 jammy egg quarters. Drizzle with Lemon Mustard Sauce. Lightly sprinkle additional kosher salt and black pepper on top. Top with fresh basil leaves or basil chiffonade. For the Avocado Crostini. place a cover of thin slices of the avocado on top of the crostini. Top with 2 or 3 jammy egg quarters. Drizzle with Lemon Mustard Sauce. Lightly sprinkle additional kosher salt and black pepper on top. Top with fresh parsley. Note: Instead of avocado slices, could mash an avocado half with some freshly squeezed lemon juice. For the Shallot (or Red Onion) Crostini, place 2 or 3 jammy egg quarters on the crostini. Drizzle with Lemon Mustard Sauce. Top with thinly cut slices of shallots or finely chopped red onion. Lightly sprinkle additional kosher salt and black pepper on top. Top with fresh parsley or thyme leaves. For Jammy Egg Salad Crostini, mix 2 or 3 jammy egg quarters with 1 – 2 T. of the Lemon Mustard Sauce. Top the crostini with the mixture. Lightly sprinkle additional kosher salt and black pepper on top. Top with fresh parsley or thyme leaves. Notes: (1) I used a combination of two different Maille dijon mustards. You can use one or other or both as I did. (2) If you have any leftover Lemon Mustard Sauce, cover and store in the refrigerator. It will be good for up to a week. Whisk again before using. (3) Instead of making crostini, you can make Jammy Egg Toast.

Charred Sugar-Crusted Alaska Salmon

Charred Sugar-Crusted Alaska Salmon

Charred Sugar-Crusted Alaska Salmon

 

Dry Sugar Rub:

2 Tablespoons sugar

1 Tablespoon chili powder

1 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 Tablespoon ground cumin

1/2 Tablespoon paprika

1/2 Tablespoon salt

1/4 teaspoon dry mustard

Dash of cinnamon

Salmon

4-6 skinless Alaska salmon fillets (4-6 ounces each), fresh or thawed

2 Tablespoons canola oil

1/4-1/3 cup hot Chinese-style or Dijon mustard (optional)

 

Blend all ingredients for dry sugar rub. Generously coat one side of each Alaska salmon fillet with mixture. Heat oil in large heavy pan over medium-high heat. Carefully place salmon fillets in pan, seasoned side down. Cook about 2 minutes to sear; turn fillets over. Reduce heat to medium and continue cooking 6-8 minutes. Cook just until fish is opaque throughout. Serve salmon with mustard, if desired.

Marshmallow Flower Cookies

Marshmallow Flower Cookies

Marshmallow Flower Cookies

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/235313149272997867/

 

6 marshmallows

6 hazelnuts

Ground cinnamon optional

 

Preheat oven to 250°F.  At a temperature below 225°F, marshmallows won’t puff up enough, resulting in less crispy cookies. If the temperature exceeds 250°F, a marshmallow tends to puff up too much, resulting in one giant disk of a marshmallow. Therefore, make sure your oven never goes above 250°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Shape: Give 4 crosswise cuts to each marshmallow, while keeping slices connected on one side. Shape into flowers. Lightly wet the scissors if the marshmallow sticks. Place them on the prepared baking sheet with sticky sides down. Stretch out the petals. Lightly wet your fingers to gently press down the flowers to flatten.

Bake: Check the internal temperature is 250°F but not above(between 225°F to 250°F). Bake for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and place hazelnuts in the center of the marshmallows. Bake for another 45 minutes. Let cool completely, for 5-10 minutes. Sprinkle some cinnamon powder if desired.

 

Servings: 6
Serving Size: 1 cookie

Calories: 31
Fat: 1 g
Fiber: 0 g
Protein: 0 g

Grilled and Roasted Walla Walla Sweet Onions with Pine Nut Butter

Grilled and Roasted Walla Walla Sweet Onions with Pine Nut Butter

Grilled and Roasted Walla Walla Sweet Onions with Pine Nut Butter

 

At the Dahlia Lounge, these grilled, roasted and buttered onions are served as an appetizer on a bed of sautéed Swiss chard.

4 medium Walla Walla Sweet Onions

 

1 tablespoon olive oil

½ cup pine nuts, toasted

3 ounces unsalted butter, softened

½ teaspoon lemon zest

½ teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary

¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

¼ teaspoon salt, or to taste

⅓ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts

lemon wedges and rosemary sprigs for garnish

 

Toast the pine nuts in a 350 degree oven for 6 to 7 minutes, or until golden brown. Cool. Caution: pine nuts burn easily. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees and fire up an outdoor grill. Peel onions and cut them in half, top to bottom. Brush onions with oil and place cut side down on the preheated grill. Barbecue until grill marks form. Place on a cookie sheet and finish cooking in the oven until tender, about 25 minutes. Meanwhile, make the pine nut butter. Place the 1/2 cup pine nuts in the bowl of a food processor and pulse several times until finely ground. Add butter, lemon zest, rosemary, black pepper and salt. Process until mixture is well blended. Spread the tender onions liberally with pine nut butter. Return to the oven to cook just until butter is melted, about 2 minutes. Serve onions warm, sprinkled with grated parmesan cheese and additional toasted pine nuts. Garnish plates with lemon wedges and rosemary sprigs.

 

Servings: 8
Serving Size: 1 onion half with pine nut butter

Calories: 204
Fat: 19 g
Fiber: 1 g
Protein: 4 g

Four-Onion Relish

Four-Onion Relish

Four-onion Relish

 

A condiment for any meat or poultry dish

 

2 Leeks

3 Scallions

2 Large Walla Walla Sweet Onions

2 Large red onions

5 Tablespoons butter

½ Teaspoons sugar

2 Tablespoons balsamic vinegar

1 Teaspoon minced fresh rosemary

Salt and Pepper

 

Cut leeks, scallions, Walla Walla Sweet Onions and red onions into ¼ inch Dice. Stir fry in butter over medium-high heat until liquid has evaporated, about 10 minutes. Sprinkle with sugar, vinegar, rosemary and salt and pepper to taste. Continue stir-frying until onions begin to brown at edges. Serve warm or at room temperature.

 

Servings: 12
Serving Size: about 1/4 C.

Calories: 83
Fat: 5 g
Fiber: 1 g
Protein: 1 g

Pollo Con Le Cipolle

Pollo Con Le Cipolle

Pollo Con Le Cipolle

 

6 cups Walla Walla Sweet Onions sliced very thin

3 Tablespoons extra dry virgin olive oil

Salt and black pepper

2 ½ to 3 pound chicken, cut into 6 pieces

¼ cup olive oil

½ cup flour spread on a plate

2 Tablespoons cognac or other grape brandy

2 Tablespoons chopped parsley

 

Choose a skillet or pan that can subsequently accommodate all the chicken pieces loosely. Put in the onion and olive oil, cover the pan and turn on the heat to low. Cook the onion slowly, until very soft, for no less than 1 hour. When the onion is soft, uncover the pan, add salt and generous grindings of pepper, turn up the heat, and sauté the onion until it becomes colored a pale nut brown. Remove from the heat. Wash the chicken pieces in cold water and pat them thoroughly dry with kitchen towels. Put the vegetable oil in a smaller skillet and turn on the heat to medium high. When the oil is hot but not smoking, turn the chicken pieces in the flour, one at a time, shake loose excess flour, and slip the chicken into the pan, as many pieces as will fit comfortably without being crowded. Cook until a fine golden crust forms on one side, then turn the pieces over and do the other side. When the chicken has formed a crust all over, transfer it with a slotted spoon or spatula to a platter, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and do another batch. When all the chicken is done, return the pan with the onion to the burner, turning the heat to medium height and keeping the pan uncovered. Add the chicken, turning it in onions 2 or 3 times. Add the brandy, turn the heat down to very low, and cover the pan. Cook for about 45 minutes, turning the chicken occasionally. The meat is done when it feels tender when is pricked with a fork.

Walla Walla Sweet Onion Sauté

Walla Walla Sweet Onion Sauté

Walla Walla Sweet Onion Sauté

Caramelizing Walla Walla Sweet Onions produces a delicate rich flavor. Combined with a Sauté of sweet bell peppers, Italian sweet sausages, and sprinkled with fresh basil, makes a delightful and colorful summer supper.

 

2 large Walla Walla Sweet Onions, peeled and sliced

¼ cup olive oil

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

2 to 3 cloves garlic, peeled and crushed

2 large red bell peppers, cut in half, seeded and sliced

2 large yellow bell peppers, cut in half, seeded and sliced

4 Italian sweet sausages cooked and cut in half

1 small bunch of fresh basil, chopped

 

In a large skillet, cook onions in 1 tablespoon of the olive oil until caramelized. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Remove from pan an place in a small bowl. Set aside.

Heat remaining olive oil in the pan. Add red and yellow peppers. Cook until soft. Season to taste. Combine with the cooked onions, and sausages. Cook another 2 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh basil, and toss. Serve with crusty Italian Bread.

 

Servings: 4
Serving Size: 1 sausage with about 1 C. vegetables

Calories: 516
Fat: 37 g
Fiber: 4 g
Protein: 19 g

Peruvian Spice Marinated Oregon Lamb Chops

Peruvian Spice Marinated Oregon Lamb Chops

Peruvian Spice Marinated Oregon Lamb Chops

 

2/3 cup soy sauce

4 T. fresh lime juice

10 garlic cloves

2 T. ground cumin

2 T. ground coriander

2 tsp. paprika1 tsp. oregano

4 T. vegetable oil

2 tsp. sesame oil

4 T. cilantro leaves

1 each rack of lamb, Anderson Valley

 

To marinate, combine marinade ingredients in a blender and pulse to combine; brush marinade over exposed meat of lamb and refrigerate a minimum of 6 hours. At service place racks on roasting rack over parchment lined sheet pans; roast at 425°F for 10 minutes; rotate pans and continue roasting an additional 8 minutes or until racks register 125°F internally. Rest 10 minutes before slicing. Serve 2 chops per person. Note- you will have more marinade than needed for recipe. Remove only what you need and save the remaining for chicken, fish, or other meats. Discard any marinade that comes in contact with raw meat. Keep reserved marinade refrigerated.

Roasted Apricots with Goat Cheese, Bacon, and Honey

Roasted Apricots with Goat Cheese, Bacon, and Honey

Roasted Apricots with Goat Cheese, Bacon, and Honey

 

4 ounces creamy goat cheese

2 T. honey, plus more for garnish

1/2 tsp. chopped fresh thyme

8 apricots, halved and pitted

1 T. olive oil

4 ounces bacon, cooked and crumbled

 

Preheat the oven to 350°F.  In a small bowl, mix together the goat cheese, honey, and thyme until well combined. Place the goat cheese mixture in a pastry bag with piping tip, or a zip-top bag with one corner cut to pipe out the cheese. Reserve. Place the apricot halves on a baking sheet and brush them with olive oil. Bake the apricots in the oven for 5 to 8 minutes, or until the apricots are slightly soft but not falling apart. Remove the apricots from the oven and set them on a platter. Pipe a tsp. or two of goat cheese into the center of each apricot. Sprinkle with bacon pieces and then drizzle with additional honey. Serve immediately.

 

Servings: 8
Serving Size: 2 apricot halves

Calories: 110
Fat: 7 g
Fiber: 1 g
Protein: 5 g

Apple, Bacon and Cheddar Bread Pudding

Apple, Bacon and Cheddar Bread Pudding

Apple, Bacon and Cheddar Bread Pudding

 

1 T. unsalted butter

12 ounces bacon, cooked and coarsely chopped (reserve 2 T. bacon drippings)

1 small or medium sweet onion, diced

1 tsp. chopped fresh thyme

1 T. chopped fresh chives

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 medium apple, peeled and diced (about 1½ cups)

2 T. brown sugar

4 cups (packed) stale country white or buttermilk bread, cubed or hand torn (the drier the better)

2½ cups shredded Tillamook Cheddar, plus ½ cup for the top of the pudding

6 eggs

2 cups half-and-half

2 tsp. salt

½ tsp. black pepper

½ tsp. cinnamon

½ tsp. ground nutmeg

Serve with real maple syrup, if desired

 

Butter an 8-by-8-by-2-inch baking dish. Add the bacon drippings to a skillet and heat over medium heat. Sauté diced onions until soft and golden. Stir in the fresh thyme, chives, garlic, apple, and brown sugar and cook 1 to 2 minutes longer. Place half the bread (2 cups packed) into the bottom of the baking dish. Sprinkle half the bacon, half the onion-apple mixture, and 1¼ cups shredded cheese over the bread. Place the remaining bread on top of the ingredients in the baking dish and repeat with the remaining bacon, onion-apple mixture, and 1¼ cups shredded cheese. Press down to keep all ingredients in the baking dish. Whisk together eggs, half-and-half, salt, black pepper, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Slowly pour the mixture over the top of the ingredients and press down a bit to be sure the liquid is evenly distributed. Top the bread pudding with the remaining ½ cup shredded Cheddar. Cover the baking dish with foil and place it in the refrigerator overnight.  When ready to bake, remove the bread pudding from the refrigerator at least 30 to 45 minutes prior to baking. Bringing the pudding to room temperature before baking will ensure that it bakes evenly. To bake, preheat the oven to 350°F. I place my foil-covered baking dish on a baking sheet just in case any liquid escapes. It’ll catch on the baking sheet and not the bottom of my oven. Place the foil-covered baking dish in the oven and bake for about 1 hour. Remove the foil from the baking dish and allow it to bake for another 10 to 15 minutes or until the center of the bread pudding is springy to the touch and the top is golden. When the pudding is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 15 minutes. Serve with a side of maple syrup if desired.

 

Servings: 9
Serving Size: 1 piece (1/9 of 8×8 pan)

Calories: 447
Fat: 32 g
Fiber: 1 g
Protein: 21 g

Grilled Lime Salmon with Avocado-Mango Salsa and Coconut Rice

Grilled Lime Salmon with Avocado-Mango Salsa and Coconut Rice

Grilled Lime Salmon with Avocado-Mango Salsa and Coconut Rice

 

4 (6 oz) skinless salmon fillets

3 T. olive oil, plus more for grill

2 tsp lime zest

3 T. fresh lime juice

3 cloves garlic, crushed

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Coconut Rice

1 1/2 cups Coconut Water

1 1/4 cups canned coconut milk

1 1/2 cups jasmine rice, rinsed well and drained well

1/2 tsp salt

 

1 large mango, peeled and diced

3/4 cup chopped red bell pepper (1/2 large)

1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

1/3 cup chopped red onion, rinsed under water and drained

1 large avocado, peeled and diced

1 T. fresh lime juice

1 T. olive oil

1 T. Coconut Water

Salt and pepper, to taste

 

For the salmon: In an 11×7-inch baking dish, whisk together olive oil, lime zest, lime juice, garlic, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Place salmon in baking dish, cover, and marinate in refrigerator 15 – 30 minutes, then flip salmon to opposite side and marinate 15 – 30 minutes longer. Preheat a grill over medium-high heat during last 10 minutes of marinating. Brush grill grates with oil. Grill salmon about 3 minutes per side or until just cooked through. For the coconut rice: While salmon is marinating, prepare coconut rice. In a medium saucepan bring coconut water, coconut milk, rice, and salt to a full boil. Cover and simmer until liquid has been absorbed, about 20 minutes. Fluff with a fork, then let rest 5 minutes. For the mango avocado salsa: While the salmon is grilling, prepare salsa. In a medium bowl, toss together mango, bell pepper, cilantro, red onion, avocado, lime juice, olive oil, and coconut water. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve salmon warm with coconut rice topped with avocado mango salsa.

 

Servings: 4
Serving Size: 1 fillet with 1/4 of rice and salsa

Calories: 1040
Fat: 61 g
Fiber: 8 g
Protein: 43 g

Oregon Cherry, Sautéed Onion, and Goat Cheese Flatbread

Oregon Cherry, Sautéed Onion, and Goat Cheese Flatbread

Oregon Cherry, Sautéed Onion, and Goat Cheese Flatbread

 

1¼ cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting

½ tsp. salt

½ tsp. baking powder

1 tsp. granulated sugar

3 T. milk

2 T. unsalted butter

1 clove garlic, minced

1 tsp. dried chives

¼ cup whole-milk Greek yogurt, room temperature

 

3 T. unsalted butter

1 sweet onion, thinly sliced

1 tsp. granulated sugar

1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and sliced or halved

Salt and pepper, to taste

6 ounces goat cheese

Torn fresh basil leaves, drizzle of olive oil, and sea salt, for garnish

 

To make the flatbread: In a medium bow, mix together the flour, salt, baking powder, and sugar. In a small saucepan, add the milk, butter, garlic, and chives and heat to just warm, 1 to 2 minutes. You don’t want hot liquid, just warm enough to melt the butter. In a large bowl, add the warm milk and butter to the yogurt and mix to combine. Slowly, with a spoon, stir the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients and mix to combine. With your hands, knead the dough in the bowl and then transfer to a lightly floured surface. Continue to knead the dough for a few minutes, adding a little more flour as needed. Place the dough in a lightly floured bowl and place plastic wrap or a damp towel over the bowl. Let the dough sit for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour. While the dough is resting, prepare the cherry and onion topping. In a skillet, heat the butter over medium heat and, when it’s melted, add the sliced onions and sugar. Let the onions cook down for about 15 minutes. They should be golden brown and slightly caramelized. Then stir in the fresh cherries and let them cook with the onions for about 5 minutes. Take the skillet off the heat, season to taste with salt and pepper, and reserve. Divide the dough into 4 pieces and shape each piece into a ball. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a disc and continue to roll it into the shape you want—either square, rectangular, or circular and about ¼-inch thick. It doesn’t have to be perfect, which is what makes this recipe so pretty. Place the flatbread on a plate or platter.  Preheat the oven to 400°F.  Heat a dry skillet over medium heat and pat excess flour off the flatbread. When the skillet is hot, add the flatbread and cook until bubbles form and the bottom is slightly golden. Transfer the flatbread to a baking sheet. Continue with the remaining flatbread.  When all the flatbread is done, spread or sprinkle goat cheese on the surface of each flatbread and then top with the cherries and onions. Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 5 to 10 minutes, until warm and slightly crispy on the edges. Remove the flatbread from the oven and garnish with fresh torn basil and a drizzle of good quality extra virgin olive oil. Sprinkle with a little sea salt and serve immediately.  Note: Although I’ve given a recipe for homemade flatbread, you can also use a store-bought flatbread for a quick version. Simply prepare the cherry and onion topping as instructed and then skip to step 8 and bake the flatbread until it’s golden brown and the goat cheese is soft and melted, 3 to 5 minutes.

 

Servings: 4
Serving Size: 1 flatbread

Calories: 451
Fat: 25 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 15 g

Pear and Cardamom Cobbler

Pear and Cardamom Cobbler

PNW Pear and Cardamom Cobbler

For the Biscuit Dough 1½ cups all-purpose flour ½ cup coconut sugar (or granulated) 2 tsp. baking powder ½ tsp. salt 1 tsp. ground cardamom 8 T. (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, diced 1 egg, cold ¾ to 1 cup heavy cream, cold For the Cobbler ¼ cup brown sugar 2 tsp. ground cardamom 2 to 3 ripe pears, cored and sliced 1 T. cold unsalted butter, diced Powdered sugar, for garnish, or serve with vanilla bean ice cream

Preheat the oven to 35O°F. To prepare the dough, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cardamom in a large bowl. Cut in the diced butter with a pastry cutter or fork or even your fingers until the flour mixture is crumbly. Once the butter is cut into the flour mixture, stir in the egg and ¾ cup heavy cream, just until nicely blended. Add the additional ¼ cup cream if your mixture hasn’t reached dough consistency. Press the dough into the bottom of a greased 9-by-l 3-inch baking dish or a 9-inch round cake pan. To prepare the cobbler, mix together the brown sugar and cardamom in a small bowl. Place the pear slices over the dough in the baking dish or cake pan and sprinkle the brown sugar and cardamom evenly over the top. Place the butter over the pears. Bake for 2 5 to 3 0 minutes, or until the cobbler is golden brown. Remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with powdered sugar or serve with vanilla bean ice cream.  Note: I used Bose pears for my cobbler, but you can use any type of pear you’ve got on hand or find at your farmers’ market. Cardamom is most fragrant and flavorful when it’s fresh. If your cardamom has been in your pantry longer than 6 months, you may want to use a tsp. more in the cobbler or purchase a fresh bottle of cardamom. There is nothing like fresh cardamom in a baked recipe

Sauteed Morels with Eilderflower and Miner’s Lettuce

Sauteed Morels with Eilderflower and Miner’s Lettuce

Sauteed Morels with Eilderflower and Miner’s Lettuce

 

1 1/2 lb miner’s lettuce

1/4 cup champagne vinegar

1/3 cup elderflower syrup

1 shallot, minced

2 tsp. sea salt

1/2 cup olive oil

1 lb fresh morel mushrooms

1 tsp. cracked black pepper

1 tsp. fresh thyme leaves, minced

 

Mince the shallot and place in a small mixing bowl. Add the champagne vinegar and allow to sit for 30 minutes to an hour. Add most of the olive oil, sea salt, elderflower syrup, thyme leaves and black pepper and whisk the dressing vigorously for one minute. Clean the miner’s lettuce and allow to dry. Place into a large salad bowl. In a medium saucepan or skillet, add 3 tbsp. of olive oil and bring to medium heat. Toss in the morels and sauté until lightly browned. Combine the dressing, morels and lettuce in the salad bowl and toss together gently.  Note: One of the main ingredients in this recipe, miner’s lettuce, may need to be handpicked or found at a health food store. The good news is that this delicious wild edible can be found in most coastal regions and in the western mountains of the Americas. You can also use a tender lettuce, and mushrooms of your choice!

 

Servings: 6
Serving Size: about 2 C.

Calories: 245
Fat: 19 g
Fiber: 4 g
Protein: 4 g

Huckleberry Cream Cheese Pie

Huckleberry Cream Cheese Pie

Huckleberry Cream Cheese Pie

 

8 ounces cream cheese, softened

1/4 cup sour cream

1 teaspoon vanilla

1/4 cup sugar

3 cups huckleberries (divided)

1/2 cup sugar

1/2 cup water, divided

2 tablespoons cornstarch

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

1 baked and cooled 9 or 10 inch crust (I used Pate Sucree)

 

Using an electric mixer and a small bowl, whip together cream cheese, sour cream, vanilla and sugar until mixture is light and fluffy. Spread onto bottom of baked and cooled crust and refrigerate for 1 hour. In a small pot combine 1 cup huckleberries and water. Heat over medium heat until almost boiling. Strain and mash mixture through a sieve leaving seeds and pulp and return juice to the pot (should be 1 cup).  Mix together cornstarch and sugar and add to juice in pot. Bring to a boil stirring constantly until mixture has thickened and juices are transparent. Remove from heat and cool to room temperature. Top cream cheese mixture in crust with 2 cups of berries. Spoon glaze mixture over berries return pie to refrigerator. Chill for 2 to 3 hours before cutting. Makes 6 servings

 

Servings: 6
Serving Size: 1 slice (1/6 of pie)

Calories: 462
Fat: 25 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 5 g

Quick Salmon & Couscous with Cilantro Vinaigrette

Quick Salmon & Couscous with Cilantro Vinaigrette

Quick Salmon & Couscous with Cilantro Vinaigrette

 

1 (10-ounce) box plain couscous (1 1/2 cups)

1 (10-ounce) salmon fillet, skin removed and cut in 2 pieces

1/2 tsp. sumac

Salt and pepper

3 T. olive oil

1/4 C. cilantro, chopped

2 scallions, thinly sliced

2 T. lemon juice

 

Cook couscous according to package directions. Season salmon with sumac, salt, and pepper. Heat 1 T. oil in a nonstick pan over medium high heat. Add salmon and cook 3 to 4 minutes on each side. Combine cilantro, scallions, lemon juice, and remaining 2 T. olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve salmon over couscous, drizzled with vinaigrette.

 

Servings: 2
Serving Size: 1 salmon piece with 1/2 of the couscous

Calories: 1014
Fat: 40 g
Fiber: 8 g
Protein: 47 g

Grilled Venison with Goat Cheese, Bacon and Blackberry Sauce

Grilled Venison with Goat Cheese, Bacon and Blackberry Sauce

Grilled Venison with Goat Cheese, Bacon and Blackberry Sauce

 

Blackberry Game Sauce:

2 T. unsalted butter

1 shallot, minced

2 T. blackberry jam (can substitute current or boysenberry jelly)

¼ C. brandy, cognac, Crown Royal, or other liqueur

½ C. red wine

1 tsp. fresh thyme leaves (or ½ tsp. dried thyme)

1 tsp. cornstarch dissolved in 2 T. water (only if you need to thicken sauce)

kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

½ pint fresh blackberries

 

Melt the butter in small saucepan over medium low heat. Add the shallot and sauté until tender, about 5 minutes. Add jam, brandy, wine and thyme, stirring until the jelly is melted and the alcohol has burned off, and if the sauce seems too thin, add the cornstarch slurry and simmer until thickened. Season with salt and pepper, to taste and stir in the berries off the heat. Set aside.

 

Grilled Venison Loin:

1 venison loin, about 1½ pounds

kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

1 small log goat cheese, at room temperature

2 T. blackberry jelly

2 T. fresh thyme leaves

1 pound sliced bacon

 

Season the venison loin liberally with salt and pepper at least 20 minutes before you plan to cook it. Light a charcoal grill or preheat a gas grill to medium-high. Using an offset spatula, spread the goat cheese evenly over the top of the loin. Spoon the blackberry jelly over the goat cheese and sprinkle with the thyme leaves. Wrap the loin in a layer of bacon, securing with toothpicks as needed (wrapping the bacon on the bias or in a herringbone fashion will help with carving later). On the grill, the goal is to get the bacon crispy and the internal temperature of the venison no higher than 125°—an instant-read thermometer is your friend here. Turn the loin often and watch for flare-ups from the fat. Total cooking time should be between 15 and 25 minutes. When the internal temperature has reached 125°F, remove from the grill and allow to rest for 10-12 minutes before slicing. Serve with the Blackberry Game Sauce spooned over the top.

 

Servings: 6
Serving Size: 1/6 of loin with sauce

Calories: 459
Fat: 22 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 38 g

Miso-Glazed Salmon with Roasted Sugar Snap Peas

Miso-Glazed Salmon with Roasted Sugar Snap Peas

Miso-Glazed Salmon with Roasted Sugar Snap Peas

 

Sweet and savory miso-glazed fish is one of the easiest dinners out there, especially when you pair it with sugar snap peas, roasted until tender on the very same pan. Rice would be the obvious side dish here, but the Buttery No-Cook Couscous works equally well and gets you there even faster.

 

4 (6-ounce) skin-on salmon fillets, about 1 inch thick

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

1 1/2 T. maple syrup, agave, or honey

1 T. white or red miso

1 T. fresh lime juice, plus lime wedges for serving

2 tsp. soy sauce

1 tsp. fish sauce (optional; you can use more soy sauce instead)

1 garlic clove, grated

1 pound sugar snap peas, trimmed

2 T. extra-virgin olive oil

Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes

1/4 C. coarsely chopped fresh cilantro, both leaves and tender stems

 

Heat the oven to 4009F and, if you like, line a sheet pan with a silicone liner or parchment paper (helpful when it’s time to clean up). Season salmon fillets with 1/2 tsp. each of salt and black pepper and place them on a plate. In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, miso, lime juice, soy sauce, fish sauce (if using), and garlic. Pour the mixture on top of the salmon and gently massage the marinade all over the fish. Let the fish marinate at room temperature while you start the peas. In a medium bowl, toss the sugar snap peas with the oil, red pepper flakes, and a big pinch each of salt and black pepper. Spread the peas on the sheet pan. Roast the peas for 5 minutes. 4. Toss the peas, then push them over to one side of the sheet pan so there’s room for the salmon. Add the salmon to the pan, skin side down. Continue roasting until the salmon is cooked through and opaque on top and the sugar snap peas are crisp-tender, 10 to 12 minutes longer. Sprinkle with cilantro and serve with lime wedges for squeezing.  Green beans, broccolini, or cherry tomatoes can stand in for the sugar snap peas. Or try another kind of fish. Just look for pieces that are about 1 inch thick, or you may have to adjust the timing slightly.

 

Servings: 4
Serving Size: 1 fillet with 1/4 of peas

Calories: 493
Fat: 30 g
Fiber: 3 g
Protein: 39 g