If you love all things
lunch
this {Pageturner Ecookbook} is for you

320 recipes
Afghani bolani - potato and green onion stuffed flatbread
Apple and curry soup
Artichoke pâté
Artichokes vinaigrette
Asparagus and spinach salad
Asparagus and tomato salad with feta
Asparagus cheese soufflé
Asparagus mimosa
Asparagus quiche with hash-brown crust
Asparagus strudel
Asparagus with lime
Asparagus with orange and endive salad
Asparagus with Parma ham and roasted pepper coulis
Asparagus with truffle broth
Avocado Sashimi
Baked carrot terrine
Baked chicken legs
Baked cod greek-style
Baked goat cheese with salad greens
Baked polenta with fontina and gorgonzola
Baked salmon steaks with apricot-horseradish sauce
Baked squash risotto with a crispy crumb topping
Balsamic potato salad
Barbajuans
Barley supper salad
Beet with frizzled leek and gorgonzola crostini
Belarusian kletski - potato dumplings
Belgian endive ham and cheese au gratin
Berbere lentils
Best lobster rolls
Bili-bi soup
Black bean and corn wonton appetizers
Black bean burgers
Black bean burritos
Black bean oat burger
Blackened chicken salad
Blue cheese and walnut soufflés
Bouillabaisse
Bowtie pasta with shrimp and asparagus
Boxty potato cakes
Braised endives in beer
Braised onions
Breaded Fish Fingers
Broccoli apricot and red pepper salad
Broccoli cauliflower gratin
Broccoli stems cabbage slaw
Brochettes of pork with rosemary
Brochettes of salmon
Broiled crab meltaways
Broiled fillets of salmon with ginger cream
Broiled fillets of salmon with green sauce
Broiled pacific salmon steaks with salsa butter
Broiled salmon fillets in a horseradish-ginger crust
Bruschetta orzo salad
Brussels Sprout and radicchio Slaw
Buckwheat Crêpes - galettes de sarrasin
Cabbage diet soup
Calentita (gibraltarian chickpea bread)
Calzones
Cannellonis
Caprese salad
Caramelized onion biscuits
Caramelized spring onion and gruyère tart
Carpaccio of marinated salmon
Carrot bran muffins
Carrot ginger soup
Carrot gnocchi
Carrot soufflé
Carrot soufflé with parsley sauce
Carrot timbales
Celery root and fennel slaw with green apple and manchego
Celery root remoulade
Cheese jalapeño soufflé
Cheese soufflé
Chicken and pasta salad with asparagus
Chicken and shrimp salad california
Chicken croquettes
Chicken fingers
Chicken paté
Chicken salad
Chicken salad and avocados
Chicken salad with couscous
Chicken salad with pasta and asparagus
Chickpea salad
Chickpea stew with coconut and turmeric
Chinese chicken tenders
Cod and potato chowder
Cod fritters
Codfish cakes
Cold broccoli soup
Cold curried chicken
Cold poached salmon steaks
Cold smoked seal loin
Corn and black bean salad
Corn and jalapeno pancakes with tomato salsa
Corn in coconut milk
Corned beef and slaw sandwich
Corned beef and swiss cheese bagels
Crab and lobster cakes with roasted red pepper coulis and dill cream
Creamed spinach with mushrooms
Creamy chickpea soup with crisp tofu
Creamy polenta with gorgonzola
Creative ways with quinoa
Crispy chicken nuggets
Croatian soparnik
Croque Monsieur sandwich
Curried mussel salad with tiny pasta
Curried quinoa with chickpeas
Deep-fried cod patties
Dilled pasta salad
Eggplant and pepper tian on fried eggplant
Eggplant and tomato terrine
Eggplant and tomato with chevre
Eggplant caviar molds
Eggplant meatballs in marinara
Eggplant papeton
Empanadas
Esquites corn salad with white beans and avocado
Fall greens with walnuts feta and walnut vinaigrette
Fast focaccia
Fettuccini primavera and pesto dressing
Fiddlehead soufflé
Fiddlehead with white bean and shrimp salad
Fiddleheads and black olive salad
fidleheads with asparagus and new potatoes
Figs and goat cheese pizza
Fillets of sole dieppoise
Finnish salmon soup
Fish and chips
Fougasse bread
Fresh salmon cakes
Fried finnish vendace
Fried flying fish
Fried green tomatoes
Fried sesame drumsticks
Gnocchi alla romana
Gnocchi parisienne
Gnocchi with green chive sauce
Gnocchi with spinach and ricotta
Goat cheese gratin
Goat cheese soufflés in phyllo cups
Grapefruit salad
Greek salad with grilled shrimp
Green peas soup
Grilled chicken and vegetable pasta salad
Grilled chicken salad with asparagus and blue cheese
Grilled salmon fillets with sun-dried tomatoes
Grilled tomatoes kebabs
Grilled vegetable stacks
Ham and cheese toast
Ham aspic with egg salad and avocado
Healthy baked chicken nuggets
Herbed seafood casserole
Herbed spinach-ricotta srudel
Herbed spinach-ricotta strudel
Irish stew
Kale and brussels sprout salad with walnuts parmesan and lemon-mustard dressing
Kale tabbouleh
Kedgeree of salmon with sea asparagus
Khachapuri cheese bread
Lasagna
Latkes and smoked salmon club sandwich with dill aioli
Lemon grass fettuccini with seared shrimp and scallops
Lentil burgers
Lima bean appetizer
Linguine alla carbonara
Linguine primavera
Macaroni and cheese
Marinated goat cheese crostini
Marinated vegetables
Mediterranean farro salad
Mexican street corn salad-esquites
Minestrone with cabbage and spinach
Mixed cabbage salad
Moqueca seafood stew
Mousse of smoked salmon
Mussel and cauliflower velouté
Mussel and scallop soup
Mussel pasta salad
Mussel soup trois gros
Mussels and spaghetti
Mussels in mustard sauce
Mussels mariniere
Mussels with leeks saffron and cream
Nasi goreng
Niçoise salad
Nicoise orzo salad
Orzo pilaf with green onions
Orzo salad with lemon and herb
Oven dried tomato and black olive tians
Paella of mussels
Pan-smoked salmon
Panzanella salad
Parmesan and basil chicken salad
Pasta and tuna with caper dressing
Pasta e fagioli with pesto and butternut squash
Pasta fagioli
Pasta roll with three cheese
Pasta salad in parmesan baskets
Pasta salad with tuna and greek olives
Pasta with broccoli and garbanzo beans
Pasta with summer vegetables
Pickled herring and potato salad
Pizza margherita
Polenta a la romaine
Polenta with roasted tomatoes and shallots
Pork tenderloin with balsamic-cranberry sauce
Potato gnocchi with lobster
Potato pancakes with goat cheese on mixed greens
Provencale salt cod and potato puree
Puff pastry rochoises
Pumpkin and sweet garlic custards
Quinoa tabbouleh
Ramen burger
Red endives and spinach salad
Red pepper bisque
Red pepper mousse
Red quinoa and apple waldorf salad
Roast tomato tart
Roasted cauliflower with parmesan polenta
Roasted tomato caprese salad
Salmon burgers
Salmon burgers with cole slaw
Salmon burgers with herb aïoli
Salmon salad with asparagus and orzo
Salmon-stuffed crab cakes
San remo pasta salad
Scrambled egg feuillete
Scrambled eggs
Seafood casserole
Seafood green onion pancake haemul-pajeon
Shaved asparagus salad
Sherried chicken thighs
Shrimp salad with belgian endive
Shrimp-tortellini pesto
Sicilian arancini
Silk handkerchiefs with pesto
Slow-roasted tomatoes
Smoked salmon corncakes
Smoked salmon napoleons
Smoked salmon omelet
Smoked salmon quiche
Smoked salmon salad
Smoked salmon salad
Smoked salmon soufflé
Smoked salmon terrine
Smoked salmon with basil-dressed baby greens
Smoked trout chowder
Smoky halibut chowder with charred corn
Snow Pea fennel and Enoki Mushroom Salad
Socca Farinata torta di ceci cecina
Soft polenta
Soft potato ravioli with truffle pan sauce
Spaghetti squash pesto with tomatoes
Spaghetti with creamy garlic and leeks
Spanakopita spinach pie in puff pastry
Spanish fish stew
Spanish mussels
Spicy coriander chicken salad
Spicy edamame burgers
Spicy seared lemongrass tofu
Spinach and chickpeas
Spinach and pasta salad
Spinach and ricotta naan pizzas
Spinach-feta strudel
Split pea soup
Spring green risotto
Squash and sage risotto
Steamed broccoli
Steamed mussels in white wine
Stir-fried pork tenderloin
Stuffed artichokes
Stuffed eggplant rolls
Stuffed tomatoes with mussels
Summer pasta vegetable salad
Summer salad
Sweet Potato Black Bean Burritos
Tahiti tuna ceviche
Talmouses
Tarka dal lentils
Tartar of asparagus avocado and tomato
Teriyaki tofu burger
Thai pasta salad with shrimp and vegetables
Tikka masala egg wraps
Tofu bites
Tofu patties
Tofu tourtiere hand pies
Tomato aspic
Tomato confit and marinated tomatoes served on a crispy tart
Tomato pie with polenta crust
Tomato stack salad
Tomato stuffed with creamy cheese with gazpacho
Tomato tart tatin
Tomato zucchini pie
Tomato-basil tortellini
Tomatoes stuffed with goat cheese
Tomatoes with peppers and stewed eggplants
Tostones - fried plantains
Tri-color salad
Tuna and broccoli with farfalle
Tuna and white bean salad
Tuna salad on olive bread with arugula
Tuna salad sandwich
Tuna salad sandwiches
Tuscan kale salad
Tuscan soup
Ugali corn fufu
Vegetable and herb orzo salad
Vegetable barley soup
Vegetable cheese strudel
Vegetable ragout with parmesan and balsamic vinegar
Vegetarian burritos
Vegetarian minestrone
Vidalia onion fritters
Watercress endive salad with roasted pears and roquefort
Wild rice with apricot and almond salad
Zucchini and red lentil fritters with lemony yogurt
Zucchini carpaccio salad
Zucchini pancakes
Zucchini roulades

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Lunch
Lunch is a meal eaten around midday. It is commonly the second meal of the day, after breakfast, and varies in size by culture and region. {Pageturner} Lunch Cookbook has a variety of recipes to offer.

Afghani bolani - potato and green onion stuffed flatbread

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 40 minutes

Cooking time:20 minutes

Also known as Perakai or Poraki, this Afghanistani bread is prepared either by baking or frying and has a vegetable stuffing made of different types of ingredients like potatoes, pumpkin, chives, lentils, and leeks.
Bolani can be served with coriander chutney or mint yogurt

Ingredients

For the dough:
3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (580g)
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 1/4 cups water (300g)
For the filling:
1 1/2 pounds (680g) baking potatoes
2 cups (140g) packed sliced green onion
2 cups, (60g) packed cilantro
1/2 cup (60g) chopped green pepper or to taste
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon salt or to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
Additional oil for shallow frying

preparation

For the dough:
Combine flour, salt, and oil in the bowl of a food processor. Process until the dough comes together in a ball. It should not be too sticky or too dry. You may use a little more or less water than 300g.
Remove the dough from the processor and knead on a floured counter to form a ball. Wrap in plastic and let rest about 20 minutes.
For the filling:
Wash potatoes, prick with a fork, and microwave until soft, approximately 10 minutes depending on the size of your potatoes. Potatoes are done when you can easily pierce them with a knife and they feel soft.
When the potatoes are cool enough to handle, remove the skins and coarsely mash with a fork.
Roughly chop the cilantro.
In a skillet, heat olive oil.
Sauté green pepper for 3 minutes.
Add green onion and sauté for 5 minutes over medium heat.
Turn off the heat and stir in chopped cilantro, salt, and pepper.
Gently stir in the potatoes.
To form the bolani:
Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces and roll into balls. Keep them covered on the counter while you roll them out.
Divide the filling into 8 equal portions.
Roll out a ball of dough on a lightly floured surface to form an 8-9 inch circle.
Put a portion of filling on the top half of the circle, leaving a half inch border around the edges.
Fold the bottom half up over the top half and seal the edges, pressing firmly all around the edge to seal it. A little water may help to seal the dough.
Repeat with the remaining balls of dough.
To shallow fry:
Heat 2 tablespoons oil in a large skillet on medium high.
One by one, shallow fry the bolani one one side until golden brown. Flip and fry on the other side until golden brown. Press down gently on the edges of the bolani while cooking to ensure that they brown evenly.
Place cooked bolani on a metal rack.

Apple and curry soup

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Cooking time:20 minutes

Ingredients

1 onion
4 stalks celery
3 apples, peeled and cored
2 teaspoons butter
2 cups beef stock
2 cups chicken stock
2 teaspoons curry powder
1 teaspoon paprika
2 teaspoons lemon juice
salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup cream

preparation

Chop onion and celery and sauté in butter in a heavy skillet until golden. Add chopped apples and cook until soft. Add stocks, curry, paprika and lemon juice. Season to taste and stir. Strain and bring to a boil. Take off heat and add the cream. Serve hot or cold.

Artichoke pâté

Serves: 12

Preparation time: 1 hour

Cooking time:1 hour

Ingredients

5 ounces pork fatback
8 ounces boneless veal
8 ounces boneless pork
2 tablespoons oil
1/2 cup diced onion
1 1/2 cups cream
2 egg whites
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon mixed seasonings
1 teaspoon chopped basil
12 artichoke hearts
1 cup dry white wine
2 tablespoons Brandy
1/2 cup chopped pistachios
Diced ham
pastry dough
Sherry wine aspic

preparation

Dice and freeze fatback. Dice the veal and pork. Heat oil in skillet. Sauté the onions. Combine meat, onion, and seasonings in a bowl. Mix cream and egg whites. Pour over meat. Refrigerate for a few hours.
Marinate artichokes in wine, brandy. Season with salt and pepper. Puree the meat with fatback. Add the pistachios and ham.
Grease a 5 cup mold and line top and bottom with pastry dough. Alternate forcemeat and artichokes ending with forcemeat.
Cover pâté with pastry. Brush with egg yolk.
Cut an opening in the center.
Bake at 350 degree for about an hour. When cold, fill the pate with sherry wine aspic.

Artichokes vinaigrette

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:35 minutes

Ingredients

1 gallon water
1 cup red wine vinegar
1/4 cup salad oil
1/4 cup lemon juice
1 teaspoon Tabasco
1/4 teaspoon ground pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon oregano
1 teaspoon garlic powder

6 whole artichokes

Vinaigrette: makes 1 cup

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
4 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons minced parsley and/or chopped fresh chives

preparation

Bring water to a boil and add all ingredients except artichokes. Wash and trim the artichoke stems to 1 inch. Remove stems.
Add to water with spices, and boil for 25 to 35 minutes or until bottoms are tender. Remove from pan and invert artichokes to drain thoroughly and cool. Using spoon, remove chokes and discard.

Vinaigrette:
In a mixing bowl, whisk mustard, vinegar, sugar, salt and pepper. Slowly whisk in oil until mixture thickens. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Stir the herbs. Whisk again just before serving.

Asparagus and spinach salad

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:12 minutes

Ingredients

1/2 pound fresh asparagus
4 cups fresh spinach leaves
1 garlic clove, halved
8 slices baguette

For dressing:
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons chicken stock
2 tablespoons canola oil
salt and pepper to taste

preparation

Clean and cut the tender part of asparagus into 2-inch pieces.
Boil for 5 minutes. Refresh under cold water.
Clean and spin dry spinach. Cut into bite size pieces.
Rub both sides of bread with garlic. Toast bread until golden. Cut into small squares.
Dressing:
In a medium bowl whisk the dressing ingredients together. Combine spinach and asparagus.
Toss with dressing. Sprinkle toasted bread over salad.

Asparagus and tomato salad with feta

Serves: 4

Preparation time:10 minutes

Cooking time:10 minutes

This Asparagus and Tomato Salad is easy to make with steamed asparagus, grape tomatoes, creamy feta, fresh herbs and a light dressing. The tarragon gives it a welcome hint of licorice. It can be eaten cold, warm or hot.

Asparagus is popular in the spring, especially around Easter and in the summer. It's peak season is April.
This dish makes a great vegetable side dish and pairs perfectly with Easter.

Ingredients

1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
1 tbsp red wine vinegar
2 tsp Dijon mustard
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 cup olive oil
2 tbsp freshly chopped parsley
1 tsp dried tarragon (use 1 tablespoon if using fresh)
2 lbs asparagus, trimmed - 2 bunches
3 green onions, chopped
1 pint grape tomatoes, halved (551 ml)
3/4 cup feta cheese crumbled

preparation

Snap off the woody ends of asparagus where they naturally break when you bend them or cut them off with a knife.

Boil water in a large pot or saucepan with steamer then reduce to simmer, add asparagus, cover with lid and steam asparagus until tender (about 8-10 minutes) *This will depend on your preference.

Use tongs to remove asparagus

In a small bowl, whisk balsamic vinegar, oil, red wine, dijon mustard, salt and pepper together.

Cover and set aside until ready to use.

Arrange cooked asparagus tomatoes on a large platter.

Sprinkle with feta cheese and parsley.

Drizzle with ½ the dressing and serve the remainder on the side *Can be served warm, room temperature or chilled.

????Variations & Substitutions
Tomatoes- you could use cherry tomatoes instead of grape tomatoes
Asparagus -you could use grilled or oven-roasted asparagus instead of steamed
Tarragon- fresh tarragon is ideal, but you can use dried
Feta cheese - you can use regular, light or fat-free feta or use goat cheese
Add-ins- you could also sprinkle on a little parmesan cheese and/or add red onions or green onion

Asparagus cheese soufflé

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 25 minutes

Cooking time:40 minutes

Ingredients

1 tablespoon butter, soft
1 tablespoon flour
2 cups 1-inch pieces asparagus tips and tender stems
4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) butter
1/2 cup flour
2 cups milk
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground nutmeg
5 eggs
1 cup grated imported Parmesan cheese
1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar

preparation

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.
Brush the interior of 2 4-cup soufflé molds with the softened butter. Dust the bottom and sides with flour. Set aside.
Bring a kettle of salted boiling water to a boil, drop in the pieces of asparagus, and cook until tender. Drain and cool under cold running water. Purée in a blender. Save in a bowl, cover and set aside.
In a heavy saucepan melt the butter. Stir in the flour with a wooden spoon and cook over low heat for 3 minutes. Add the milk. Cook over medium-high heat while whisking until sauce becomes thick and bubbly.
Transfer the sauce to a large mixing bowl. Season with salt and pepper and nutmeg.
Separate the eggs. Mix egg yolks and cheese in the thick cream sauce. Stir in the asparagus purée. (can be prepared 2 hours in advance up to this point.)
In an electric mixing bowl, whip the egg whites with cream of tartar until the whites are firm fluffy. Using a rubber spatula, gently fold the whites into the cheese mixture.
Pour soufflé mixture into mold.
Bake for 30 to 40 minutes. Reduce the oven temperature to 350 degrees F. after 10 minutes Soufflé should rise two inches or more above mold. Serve when ready.
I serve cheese soufflé with tomato basil sauce or melted brie.

Asparagus mimosa

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Cooking time:10 minutes

Ingredients

3 pounds fresh green asparagus
2 hard-cooked eggs, peeled
2 tablespoons chopped parsley
1 cup herb-vinaigrette dressing

preparation

Peel and trim the asparagus.
Boil 4 quarts of water in a pot. Cook asparagus in boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes or until just tender.
Gently remove asparagus from boiling water and cool in ice cold water. Drain on paper towels, and set aside.
Separate egg yolks and whites. Wash egg whites in cold water. Drain on paper towel and set aside. Finely chop egg yolks; set aside in a small bowl. Chop egg whites and save in a bowl.
Arrange asparagus on a serving platter. Sprinkle egg yolk and egg white and parsley over asparagus.
Serve cold with the herb-vinaigrette.

Asparagus quiche with hash-brown crust

Serves: 10

Preparation time:40 minutes

Cooking time:30 minutes

Quiche can be made up to 1 day in advance. Cool to room temperature, then wrap with plastic and refrigerate. To reheat, bake at 325°F until warmed through, 15 to 20 minutes.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons butter, softened, plus more for pan
4 medium russet potatoes (about 2 pounds), peeled
1 egg
1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, divided
3/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, divided
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
4 medium shallots, thinly sliced
6 large eggs, room temperature
1 1/4 cups half-and-half or light cream
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Pinch of grated nutmeg
6 ounces Fontina cheese or Emmenthal cheese, grated (about 1 1/2 cups)
1/2 bunch asparagus (about 1/2 pound), ends trimmed

preparation

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Brush a 9-by-2 1/2-inch springform pan with butter. Line the sides of the pan with strips of waxed paper (the same height as pan); brush paper with butter.
Using the coarse grater disk on a food processor or the largest holes on a box grater, shred potatoes. Toss with 1 tsp. salt and 1/2 tsp. pepper in a large bowl. Transfer to a clean dishtowel, gather together ends of towel, and thoroughly wring out excess liquid; Transfer potatoes to a bowl and add butter, 1 egg, salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper.Pat into bottom and up sides of prepared pan. Place on a rimmed baking sheet; bake until set, 15 to 20 minutes.

Meanwhile, melt remaining 1 Tbsp. butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add shallots and sauté until translucent, 5-6 minutes; set aside.
Whisk eggs, half-and-half, mustard powder, nutmeg, remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt, and remaining 1/4 teaspoon pepper in another large bowl and set aside.
Sprinkle Fontina or Emmenthal cheese, and sautéed shallots evenly over bottom of crust, then pour in egg mixture. Arrange asparagus decoratively on top. Bake until quiche is set and crust is well browned, 30-35 minutes. Let cool to room temperature before cutting into wedges.

Asparagus strudel

Serves: 8

Preparation time: 30 minutes

Cooking time:45 minutes

Serves 8 as appetizers

Ingredients

1 pound asparagus spears
2 medium leeks, white parts only
1 tablespoon chopped shallot
6 ounces melted butter
8 ounces grated Gruyère cheese
3 eggs
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
2 tablespoons chopped fresh snipped chives
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
dash cayenne pepper
12 sheets packaged phyllo pastry
Tomato coulis

preparation

Trim and cut asparagus into 1-inch lengths. Blanch in salted boiling water for 3 minutes. Drain and chill in cold water. Drain on pat dry. Reserve in a bowl.
Slice leek across thinly and wash thoroughly. In a non-stick pan, melt 2 ounces of the butter. Sauté leeks and shallots in butter until transparent.
Add to the asparagus together with grated Gruyère cheese, eggs, chopped fresh parsley, chopped fresh dill, chopped fresh snipped chives, salt, fresh ground black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Lay 1 leaf of phyllo on work surface. Brush with melted butter. Continue until there are 6 buttered layers. Place half of the asparagus mixture along one short end, tuck ends in and roll up jelly-roll fashion. Place on a buttered baking sheet.
Make second strudel with remaining phyllo, butter and filling, and place on same baking sheet.
Brush rolls with any remaining butter. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, until golden. Cool lightly and slice into 2-inch pieces. Serve as appetizer with fresh tomato coulis.

Asparagus with lime

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 10 minutes

Cooking time:6 minutes

Ingredients

2 pounds asparagus trimmed
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon grated lime rind
2 tablespoons lime juice
2 teaspoons liquid honey
1/4 teaspoon salt
pinch pepper
1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint
1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
2 tablespoons diced sweet red pepper

preparation

In large skillet, simmer asparagus in salted boiling water for 6 minutes or just until tender.
Drain on towels; transfer to platter.
Whisk oil, lime rind and juice, honey, salt and pepper; stir in mint and chives.
Drizzle over asparagus; garnish with red pepper.

From Canada Living Test Kitchen

Asparagus with orange and endive salad

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Cooking time:4 minutes

The success of this recipe is attributed to the raspberry vinegar that makes this fruity tasting salad.

Ingredients

2 1/2 cups diagonally sliced asparagus
2 cups rinsed, dried and torn endive leaves
2 large oranges, sliced into rounds
1 red onion, thinly sliced
1/3 cup raspberry vinegar
2 tablespoons olive oil or canola oil
1 tablespoon orange juice
1 tablespoon white sugar
salt and pepper to taste

preparation

To a large pot of boiling water, add the asparagus. Blanch for 3 to 4 minutes; drain, and plunge asparagus into a bowl of cold water. Drain again and dry.
In a large bowl, combine the asparagus, endive, oranges, and red onion.

Whisk together the raspberry vinegar, canola oil, orange juice, sugar and salt and pepper.
Add dressing to the asparagus endive mixture; toss well and serve.

Asparagus with Parma ham and roasted pepper coulis

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 30 minutes

Cooking time:12 minutes

Ingredients

2 red bell peppers
5 teaspoons plus 1 teaspoon olive oil
1 teaspoon white wine vinegar
to taste, coarse salt and pepper
36 spears of asparagus
6 thin slices of Parma
4 sheets of phyllo
3/4 cup melted butter
6 teaspoons dry breadcrumbs
1 cup baby arugula leaves

preparation

Pepper coulis:
Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Rub peppers with 2 teaspoons olive oil. Place them on a baking sheet and roast for 25 minutes or until almost charred. Remove and place in plastic container with a lid to steam and cool. When cool enough to handle, push off the skins and remove stems and seeds. Place peppers in food processor fitted with metal blade and puree along with the vinegar, 1 teaspoon olive oil, and 1 tablespoon water. Season to taste.

Wash asparagus. with a sharp knife, trim bottoms to make spears of equal length. Place the asparagus in boiling water for 1 minute. Drain and refresh. Pat dry. Toss with 2 teaspoons olive oil. Cut the ham in half lengthwise.
Hold 3 asparagus spears together. Wrap one strip of ham around the center of the asparagus bundle and set aside. Continue making bundles until you have 12.
Carefully lay one sheet of phyllo dough on damp towel. Lightly brush it with some of the melted butter and sprinkle with 1 tablespoon bread crumbs. Butter another sheet and place on top of the crumbled sheet. Using a very sharp knife, carefully cut the phyllo sheets, from top to bottom, into 6 strips. Roll one phyllo strip around the center of an asparagus-ham bundle. continue until you have prepared 6 bundles. Repeat the process with the remaining phyllo sheets, butter, crumbs, and 6 remaining asparagus bundles. Place bundles on baking sheet . Bake for 9 to 12 minutes, or until pastry is golden brown.
Toss arugula leaves with remaining teaspoon of oil. Place a tablespoon or more of pepper puree in center of each plate. Cross 2 asparagus bundles over the puree. Garnish with a few arugula leaves and serve immediately.

Asparagus with truffle broth

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 10 minutes

Cooking time:8 minutes

Ingredients

1/4 cup chicken stock
1/4 cup peanut oil
2 1/2 ounces chopped black truffles
2 pounds asparagus, trimmed
1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted

preparation

In a small bowl, whisk together stock, oil and truffles.
In a deep 10 -to 12-inch skillet bring 3 inches salted water to a boil and cook asparagus until crisp tender, 2 to 4 minutes. Drain asparagus. Pat dry. Transfer to a serving dish and toss with butter.
Spoon truffle broth over asparagus and season with salt and pepper. Serve asparagus warm or at room temperature.

Avocado Sashimi

Serves: 2

Preparation time: 10 minutes

Shichimi togarashi (also called nanami togarashi) is a spice blend that consists of 7 ingredients.

A blend may contain ground red chili pepper, ground sichuan pepper, roasted orange peel, black sesame seeds, white sesame seeds, hemp seeds, ground ginger, nori or aonori, poppy seeds, yuzu peel, rape seed, or shiso, depending on the maker. It’s wonderful sprinkled on everything from chicken or fish, to soup or steamed vegetables.

Ingredients

1 ripe avocado
1/2 fresh lemon
shichimi togarashi
wasabi paste
soy sauce

preparation

Peel the avocado and cut into slices.
Squeeze lemon juice over the slices. Sprinkle with shichimi togarashi and serve with wasabi and soy sauce.

Baked carrot terrine

Serves: 8

Preparation time: 30 minutes

Cooking time:2 hours

Ingredients

1 pound carrots
1 tablespoon butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 onion, chopped
1/2 teaspoon grated lemon rind
1 tablespoon lemon juice
pinch nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
2 eggs
2/3 cup 2% evaporated milk

preparation

Grease 8x4-inch loaf pan.
Line bottom with parchment or waxed paper; grease paper. Cook carrots until softened, drain. Let cool.
In nonstick skillet, melt butter over medium heat; cook garlic and onion, stirring until very soft.
Let cool completely. In food processor or blender, purée onion mixture, carrots, lemon rind. Lemon juice, nutmeg, salt and pepper until smooth; transfer to large bowl.
Whisk together eggs and evaporated milk. Add to carrot mixture, blending well.
Pour into prepared pan, smoothing top. Cut rectangle of parchment to fit directly on top of mixture.
Place loaf pan in large pan. Pour in boiling water to come halfway up side of loaf pan.
Bake in 350 degree oven for about 1 1/4 hours or until center of terrine is firm to the touch and knife inserted in center comes out clean.
Remove loaf pan from water; peel off top paper. Run knife around sides of pan. Let stand 10 minutes.

Baked chicken legs

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Cooking time:25 minutes

Ingredients

6 whole chicken legs
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon butter
1 teaspoon olive oil
1/2 cup fresh bread crumbs
1 teaspoon chopped garlic
1 teaspoon chopped shallots
1 teaspoon chopped parsley
1 teaspoon chopped basil
1 teaspoon chopped tarragon
1/2 cup white wine

preparation

Preheat oven to 425 degrees.
Sprinkle chicken with salt and pepper. Melt butter and oil in a baking dish. Place chicken legs in dish and turn over to coat with butter and oil. Bake in oven for 20 minutes.
Combine bread crumbs, garlic, shallots and herbs. Turn chicken legs. Sprinkle with bread mixture.
Bake 20 more minutes. Pour wine around chicken. Bake 5 more minutes before serving.

Baked cod greek-style

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:25 minutes

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) cod fillets, thawed
3 tbsp (45 mL) all purpose flour
2 tbsp (30 mL) olive oil
1 cup (250 mL) crumbled feta cheese
(about 1/4 lb/125 g)1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 sweet green bell pepper, chopped
1 can (19 oz/540 mL) tomatoes, (undrained)
1/2 cup (125 mL) pitted black olives
1/2 tsp (2 mL) dried oregano
1 pinch hot pepper flakes
1 pinch granulated sugar
2 tbsp (30 mL) minced fresh parsley
Salt and pepper

preparation

Cut cod into serving-size portions. Pat dry. Dredge lightly in flour. In large skillet, heat half of the oil over medium-high heat; brown cod lightly on both sides and arrange in 8-inch (2 L) square baking dish. Sprinkle with feta.

Pour remaining oil into skillet; cook onion, garlic and green pepper, stirring, until softened, about 4 minutes. Add tomatoes; crush with fork and stir in olives, oregano, pepper flakes and sugar. Bring to boil, reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, stirring often, until thickened, about 10 minutes.

Add parsley, and season with salt and pepper to taste; spoon over fish. (Dish can be made ahead, cooled, covered and refrigerated for up to 8 hours. Add 5 minutes to baking time.) Bake uncovered in 375°F (190°C) oven for about 15 minutes or until bubbly.

Baked goat cheese with salad greens

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Cooking time:6 minutes

Ingredients

3 small rounds fresh goat cheese, each about 1/4 pound
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 1/2 cups finely dried bread crumbs
4 large handfuls mesclun or mixed salad greens
1 clove garlic, minced
12 walnut halves
Toasts

VINAIGRETTE:
5 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
Salt and freshly ground pepper

preparation

Whisk together the oil, and two vinegar. Season to taste with salt and pepper and stir in the minced garlic.
Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
Cut each cheese round horizontally to make 6 rounds.
Place on a plate and drizzle with the olive oil, turning once to lightly coat both sides.
Spread the bread crumbs on a plate. Coat the rounds of goat cheese on both sides with the crumbs and then place well spaced on a baking sheet.
Bake until the cheese rounds are slightly bubbling around the edges, 4-6 minutes.
Drizzle salad greens with the dressing. Toss well and divide the greens evenly among 6 salad plates.
Place a hot cheese round in the center of each mound of greens. Garnish with walnuts and toasts. Serve immediately.

Baked polenta with fontina and gorgonzola

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:40 minutes

Ingredients

For the sauce:

2 pounds Italian tomatoes or canned whole tomatoes, coarsely chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 small yellow onion, finely chopped
1 clove garlic, finely chopped
1 bay leaf
4 basil leaves
2 parsley stems
salt and pepper to taste

For the polenta:
1 1/2 cups polenta
8 ounces Fontina cheese, thinly sliced
5 ounces Gorgonzola cheese
1 tablespoon basil, chopped for garnish

preparation

For the sauce:
In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, bay leaf, basil and parsley, and cook slowly for 3 to 4 minutes. Add the tomatoes. Bring to a boil, and simmer for 15 minutes. Put sauce in a food processor on pulse to chop tomatoes and make sauce smoother. Return to the sauce to the pan, and simmer until medium-thick. Season to taste with salt and pepper and a pinch of sugar to cut the acidity if necessary. This yields about 1 1/2 cups.
While the sauce is cooking, bring 4 1/2 cups water to a boil and add 1 teaspoon salt. Whisk in the polenta in a stream so that lumps do not form. Lower the heat, and simmer 12 to 15 minutes, while stirring with a wooden spoon. Pour polenta into a loaf pan or a 9-by12-inch baking dish, and set it aside to cool. When cold and firm, turn polenta out on a clean surface, and cut into 3-inch squares or diagonal pieces. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.
Lightly butter individual gratin dishes, spreading a tablespoon of tomato sauce over bottom of dishes. Arrange the polenta and slices of Fontina in overlapping layers.
Spoon the remaining tomato sauce over the layers. Crumble Gorgonzola over the top, season with pepper, and bake the polenta uncovered until cheese is melted. Garnish with fresh basil.

Baked salmon steaks with apricot-horseradish sauce

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 10 minutes

Cooking time:12 minutes

Ingredients

1/4 cup apricot jam
2 teaspoons prepared horseradish
1 teaspoon white vinegar
4-8-ounce salmon steaks
4 sprigs fresh parsley

preparation

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
In a small bowl, combine the apricot jam, horseradish, and vinegar.
Rinse salmon steaks under cold water and pat dry. Lay steaks on a lightly oiled baking pan. Spoon the sauce evenly over tops of steaks.
Bake the salmon steaks for ten minutes. Remove center bone to test for doneness.
PRESENTATION
Skin and bone the salmon steaks. Place each steak in the center of warm plates.

Baked squash risotto with a crispy crumb topping

Serves: 6

Preparation time:20 minutes

Cooking time:1 hour

This would also be good made with sugar pumpkins.

Ingredients

SQUASH PURÉE AND STOCK
1 Hubbard squash, 1 1/2 lbs (680 g), washed with skin on
5 cups (1.25 L) water
1/2 tsp (2 mL) salt

RISOTTO
1 cup (250 mL) thinly sliced onion
3 tbsp (45 mL) unsalted butter, divided
1 cup (250 mL) coarsely grated zucchini
1 1/2 cups (375 mL) arborio rice
1/2 cup (125 mL) dry white wine
1 1/2 tsp (7 mL) salt
1/2 tsp (2 mL) freshly ground pepper
1/2 cup (125 mL) grated Pecorino Romano cheese

TOPPING
1/4 cup (60 mL) light olive oil
4 large sage leaves plus more to garnish
1/2 cup (125 mL) seasoned panko bread crumbs

preparation

1. For the squash purée and stock, cut squash in quarters and scoop out seeds. Place in a large pot with water and salt. Bring to a boil and reduce heat to simmer. Simmer until squash is soft, about 10 minutes. Remove squash with a slotted spoon and place, skin-on, in a blender. Purée until creamy. Reserve 3 cups (750 mL) stock and keep hot. Remaining stock can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 4 to 5 days.

2. Preheat oven to 350°F`(177°C).

3. In a large Dutch oven with a lid, add onions, 1 tbsp (15 mL) unsalted butter, grated zucchini, rice, wine, 2 cups (500 mL) squash purée and 3 cups (750 mL) squash stock. Season with salt and pepper. Stir to combine. Cover with lid and bake until rice is tender, 45 to 50 minutes.

4. While risotto is baking, make topping. In a small saucepan, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add sage leaves and fry until crisp, about 30 seconds. Remove with a slotted spoon; drain on paper towel. Add panko and cook, stirring, until golden, about 1 minute. Remove from heat. Finely crush four sage leaves and mix into panko crumbs.

5. Remove risotto from oven and stir well. Stir in remaining 2 tbsp (30 mL) butter and cheese. It should have a creamy consistency and will start to thicken as it sits, covered, about 5 to 7 minutes.

6. Plate risotto and top with panko topping. Garnish with extra crispy sage leaves, if using.

Balsamic potato salad

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 10 minutes

Cooking time:15 minutes

Ingredients

3 pounds new little red potatoes
1/2 cup slivered oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes
3 tablespoons capers
1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons sun-dried tomato oil
1 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
2 tablespoons chopped fresh oregano or basil

preparation

Cook potatoes in pot of boiling salted water until tender. Drain and let cool; cut in half. Add tomatoes and capers.
Whisk together vinegar, olive oil, sun dried tomato oil, mustard, salt and pepper; toss with potato mixture.
Let stand for 10 minutes. Sprinkle with oregano.

Barbajuans

Serves: 4

Preparation time:20 minutes

Cooking time:15 minutes

Barbajuans are fried chard-filled ravioli. They can be served as an hors d'oeuvre or as a main dish, accompanied by a mesclun or arugula salad.
In Menton, France, they are filled with chard or red squash, cooked ground meat, eggs, cheese, oil and rice. They are triangular in shape.

Ingredients

14 oz white flour (400 g)
3 1/2 oz olive oil (10 cl)
1 whole egg
4 oz cold water (12.5 cl)
1/2 tsp salt

Filling

3/4 cup minced white onion
3 1/2 ounces leeks, white only (100 g)
9 ounces Swiss chard, greens only (250 g)
9 ounces spinach leaves (250 g)
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 egg, beaten
5 ounces ricotta cheese (125 g)
1 tablespoon grated parmesan
5 tablespoons olive oil
2 tbsp minced marjoram
2 tbsp chopped chives

1 qt grapeseed oil for frying

preparation

Dough:
Prepare the dough by combining the flour, olive oil, whole egg, and salt together in a mixing bowl. Gradually add the water while kneading the dough by hand. When it is smooth and soft, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 3 hours.
Filling:
blanch the greens from a bunch of Swiss chard for a few seconds in boiling water; drain and chop finely;
mince the onion and leeks; sweat gently in olive oil without browning;
add the chard; cook gently until the water has evaporated. Season.
Transfer to a mixing bowl and add the beaten egg, ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, olive oil, marjoram, and chives. Season with salt and pepper as needed.

Assembly and cooking
roll out the dough in a strip about 15 cm (6") wide;
divide the filling into small mounds, about 2 spoonfuls each;
fold the dough over to cover; cut into half circles using a pastry wheel;
fry in hot oil until golden brown.

Barley supper salad

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Cooking time:1 hour

Ingredients

3 cups vegetable stock
1 cup pearl barley
1 bay leaf
2 carrots, chopped
2 stalks celery, chopped
4 green onions
1/2 green pepper
1-19 ounce can red kidney beans

Dressing:
1/4 cup vegetable stock
1/3 cup red wine vinegar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
2 teaspoons dried basil
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/3 cup olive oil
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

preparation

Combine stock, barley and bay leaf. Bring to boil; reduce heat, cover and simmer for 40 minutes.
Stir in carrots and celery; cook for 5 minutes or until stock is absorbed and barley is tender.
Discard bay leaf; transfer to large bowl. Fluff with fork. Meanwhile, chop onions and green pepper; drain and rinse beans. Add to barley mixture.
Dressing:
Whisk together stock, vinegar, mustard, basil and thyme; whisk in oil. Toss with barley mixture. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or for up to 8 hours. Stir in parsley. Serve on lettuce leaves.

Beet with frizzled leek and gorgonzola crostini

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 30 minutes

Cooking time:50 minutes

Serve as appetizers or as first course

Ingredients

3 medium beets, (3/4 lb), trimmed and scrubbed
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
2 teaspoons white wine vinegar
2 teaspoons chopped fresh Italian parsley
To taste salt and ground black pepper
1 leek, white part only
1 cup canola oil
4 slices Italian bread, cut diagonally
2 ounces Gorgonzola cheese

preparation

Wash beets. Place in a saucepan, cover with water and cook over medium heat for 30 to 40 minutesor until tender. Drain. When cool enough to handle, slide the peel off by hand, and slice into small wedges. Place in a medium bowl. Season with oil, vinegar, parsley, salt and pepper. Set aside and cover.
Cut leek crosswise about 3-inch long. Slice lengthwise into thin strips. Wash in cold water and dry. Heat the oil in a cast iron pan over moderate heat. The oil should not be too hot. Fry the leeks until golden brown. Drain on paper towel. Set aside. Can be made a day ahead, and kept in an air tight container.
Toast the bread until golden. Spread each toast with Gorgonzola. Top with 2 to 3 slices of beet mixture, and a few more on the plate. Sprinkle leeks on top, and serve at once.

Belarusian kletski - potato dumplings

Serves: 4

Preparation time:15 minutes

Cooking time:10 minutes

Also, bits of crisp bacon with the onions/butter can be added to the dumplings which are accompanied with sour cream

Ingredients

2 c. grated raw potatoes
1 egg
1/2 tsp. salt
3/4 cup flour
1 cup chopped onion
4 oz Butter

preparation

Peel and grate the potatoes using a fine grater. Place the grated potatoes in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out any excess moisture.
Combine Ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated potatoes, flour, salt, and beaten egg. Mix well until a dough-like consistency forms.

Flour your hands to prevent sticking. Take a small portion of the dough and roll it into a ball, then flatten it slightly to form a dumpling. Repeat this process until all the dough is used.
Cook the Dumplings:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a gentle boil. Carefully drop the dumplings into the boiling water. Cook for about 5-7 minutes or until the dumplings float to the surface.
Drain and Serve:

Use a slotted spoon to remove the dumplings from the boiling water and drain excess water.
Serve with Sour Cream or Butter:

Place the Kletski on a serving dish. Serve hot with a generous dollop of sour cream or drizzled with melted butter. Optionally, sprinkle chopped fresh dill over the top for added flavor.
Saute onions with butter and pour over the dumplings.

Belgian endive ham and cheese au gratin

Serves: 2

Preparation time: 40 minutes

Cooking time:1 hour

Ingredients

4 heads Belgian endive
4 slices cooked ham
2 tablespoons butter
1/4 cup flour
1 1/4 cups milk
3/4 cup grated Gruyere or Emmenthal cheese
1/4 cup grated Gruyere or Emmenthal cheese
seasoning: salt - pepper - nutmeg

preparation

Trim the bottom of the endive heads and if necessary, remove the outer leaves. Cook in boiling salted water or steam them for about 20 minutes until tender. Drain well, squeeze them to remove any remaining water and wrap each head of endive in a slice of ham. Put into a baking dish.
Prepare the sauce while the endive is cooking.
Heat the butter in a saucepan. Stir in the flour and cook for two minutes. Remove from heat and blend in the milk. Stir over a low heat until thickened, add seasoning .
Add the 3/4 cup of cheese to the sauce, pour over the wrapped endives.
Cover with cheese sauce and place in a 350 degrees F oven for about 20 minutes or until sauce is bubbly and brown.
You may brown it under the broiler for a minute or two if you wish. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.

Berbere lentils

Serves: 3

Preparation time:15 minutes

Cooking time:40 minutes

Also known as yemisir wot
.Serve with injera (the spongy flatbread).

Ingredients

1/3 cup canola oil
1-1/2 medium yellow onions, finely chopped
1/2 cup berbere spice blend, or to taste
1 tbsp puréed fresh, peeled ginger
2 tsp puréed fresh garlic
1 cup dried red lentils, washed
3 cups water + more if needed
1/2 tsp fine sea salt, or to taste

preparation

In medium saucepan, heat oil over medium heat. Add onions. Cook 8 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in berbere, ginger and garlic. Cook, stirring, 2 minutes. Add lentils. Cook, stirring, 1 minute.

Add 3 cups (750 mL) water. Bring to boil over high heat. Reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer, stirring often and adding water if needed, until lentils disintegrate and mixture is a thick stew, about 30 minutes. Taste; season with salt.

Best lobster rolls

Serves: 4

Preparation time:20 minutes

Cooking time:12 minutes

Ingredients

2 lb freshly boiled and shelled lobster. (See how to boil lobsters here)
2 tbsp mayonnaise
1 tbsp lemon juice
1/2 stalk celery very finely chopped
4 toasted brioche buns or hot dog style buns.
Salt
Pepper
chives or tarragon.

preparation

Boil fresh lobsters, see details below and then take all the meat out of the tail shell, claws, and knuckles. Avoid the frozen version as it can be somewhat chewy.

Wash the celery, and chop it up into small little pieces. Then roughly chop up the lobster meat into bite sized pieces, the chunkier the better.

Mix the chopped lobster meat with the mayonnaise, finely chopped celery, lemon juice, salt and pepper into a bowl and mix thoroughly. Taste the lobster filling and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Get your lobster roll buns ready. Top the rolls/bun with a heaping portion of lobster. Garnish the lobster roll with some freshly chopped chives or tarragon. The lobster rolls are best served immediately, though you can easily make the lobster filling ahead of time and keep it in the fridge for a day or two, then assemble sandwiches as needed.

How long do I boil lobster for?
As a rule of thumb you want the pot to be large enough to completely cover the lobsters with at least 2 inches of water.
In a large Bring the water to a boil and add about 1 tbsp of salt per liter of water, better yet use fresh seawater for best results.
Add the live lobsters to the boiling water and then bring the pot back to a boil as quickly as possible. Reduce the heat to a simmer, and cook the lobsters for 10 to 12 minutes.

As a general rule of thumb you should boil lobster for 7 minutes per pound. This is based on the lobster size though and not the combined total weight. So if you are cooking 1.5 lb lobsters you should simmer them for about 11 minutes, if you are cooking 2 lb lobsters 14 minutes and so on.

Bili-bi soup

Serves: 5

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Cooking time:20 minutes

Ingredients

1 tablespoon butter
1 tablespoon chopped shallots
2 cups dry white wine
2 tablespoons chopped parsley
4 pounds mussels
5 ounces roux
1 cup light cream

preparation

In a large pot, melt butter, with chopped shallots. Add dry white wine, chopped parsley and mussels.
|Cover and steam until open. Strain liquid, add roux. Whisk to thicken.
Remove mussels from shells. Add to soup with cream. Season with white pepper. Heat and serve hot.

Black bean and corn wonton appetizers

Serves: 12

Preparation time: 10 minutes

Cooking time:10 minutes

Ingredients

36 wonton skins
2/3 cup thick and chunky salsa
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1-15 ounce can whole kernel corn, drained
1-15 ounce can black beans, rinsed and drained
1/4 cup sour cream

preparation

Heat oven to 350 degrees.
Gently fit 1 wonton skin into each of 36 small muffin cups, 1 3/4x1 inch, pressing against bottom and side. Bake 8 to 10 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Remove from pan; cool on wire rack. Mix remaining ingredients except sour cream.
Just before serving, spoon bean mixture into wonton cups. Top each with 1/2 teaspoon sour cream.

Black bean burgers

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 30 minutes

Cooking time:15 minutes

Spread out the drained canned black beans onto a lined baking sheet and bake for about 15 minutes. This prevents the black bean burgers from tasting like mush. FLAVOR. Besides sautéed garlic, onion, pepper add a little cumin, worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, feta cheese, and chili pepper that will turn black beans into the best black bean burger.

Ingredients

2 (14 ounce) cans black beans, drained, rinsed, and patted dry
1 Tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
3/4 cup finely chopped bell pepper (1/2 of a pepper)
1 cup finely chopped yellow onion (1/2 of a large onion)
3 garlic cloves, minced (about 1 Tablespoon)
1 and 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 cup bread crumbs or oat flour
1/2 cup feta cheese
2 large eggs
1 Tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
2 Tablespoons ketchup, mayo, or BBQ sauce
pinch salt and pepper

preparation

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190°C). Grease cookie sheet or line with parchment paper and set aside.
Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Spread beans evenly onto a lined baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes until slightly dried out.
Meanwhile, sauté olive oil, chopped pepper, onion, and garlic over medium heat until peppers and onions are soft,and no moisture left about 5-6 minutes. Place in a large bowl or in a food processor with the remaining ingredients. Stir or pulse everything together, then add the black beans. Mash with a fork or pulse the mixture, leaving some larger chunks of beans.
Form into patties– about 1/3 cup of mixture in each.
To bake: Place patties on a lined baking sheet and bake at 375°F (191°C) for 10 minutes on each side, 20 minutes total. To grill: Place patties on greased aluminum foil and grill 8 minutes on each side. Heat temperature is personal preference as all grills differ. Generally, black bean burgers should grill on medium-high heat about 350°F (177°C) – 400°F (204°C).
Serve with your favorite toppings.

Make ahead tip: Cooked or uncooked black bean burgers freeze wonderfully! Stack between parchment paper in a freezer container or zipped-top bag. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat to your liking or, if uncooked, cook according to instructions.

Black bean burritos

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:20 minutes

A recipe inspired by the 10-year old Alexandra Nickle from Arizona at The 2013 healthy lunchtime challenge at the White House in DC. As a side dish, she would suggest a mango soy smoothie made with frozen bananas.

Ingredients

For the mango salsa:
2 ripe mangoes, peeled and
chopped
1/2 red onion, chopped
1 tablespoon finely chopped
fresh cilantro leaves
1 tablespoon freshly squeezed
lime juice
1 teaspoon olive oil
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground
black pepper

For the black beans:
2 teaspoons olive oil
1/2 red onion, chopped
3 medium tomatoes, diced
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano
1 teaspoon salt
2 (15-ounce) cans black
beans, drained and rinsed
6 large romaine lettuce leaves
6 whole-grain tortillas (warm)
1/4 cup shredded low-fat
Monterey Jack cheese

preparation

Make the mango salsa:
1. In a large bowl, toss together the mango, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Set aside.
Make the black beans:
1. In a medium sauté pan over moderate heat, warm 1 teaspoon olive oil. Add the red onion and
sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the tomatoes, cumin, oregano, and salt. remove the
mixture from the heat and let cool for a few minutes. Transfer the tomato mixture to a blender and
pulse until smooth with some lumps.
2. In a medium sauté pan over moderate heat, warm the remaining teaspoon olive oil. Add the beans
and the tomato purée and cook until thickened, about 10 minutes.
3. To assemble burritos, arrange 1 large romaine lettuce leaf on top of each tortilla and top with a
scoop of the black bean and tomato mixture. Sprinkle with cheese and wrap the burritos with the salsa
inside, on top, or on the side of the burrito.

Black bean oat burger

Serves: 4

Preparation time:10 minutes

Cooking time:10 minutes

Back bean burgers patties can be stored in the freezer to get ahead on meal prep for the week; just make sure to defrost before cooking.

Ingredients

2 (15-oz) cans black beans, drained and rinsed
¾ cp uncooked old-fashioned regular rolled oats
2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
1 tablespoon soy sauce
2 teaspoons chili powder
3 scallions, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons canola oil
4 hamburger buns
1 cup salsa

Lettuce, tomato slices, red onion slices

preparation

Process beans, oats, garlic, soy sauce, and chili powder in a food processor until ingredients begin to come together, about 30 seconds.

Transfer bean mixture to a large bowl and stir in scallions.

Shape mixture into 4 (¾-cup) patties, and then let them stand at room temperature 5 minutes or refrigerate up to 3 hours.

Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high. Cook patties in hot oil until browned, about 5 minutes per side.

Place 1 patty on each hamburger bun bottom, and top each with ¼ cup salsa. Add lettuce, tomato slices, and red onion slices, and cover with bun tops.

Blackened chicken salad

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:30 minutes

Ingredients

3 cups chopped tomato
3/4 cup diced yellow bell pepper
1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
1 tablespoon sugar
3 tablespoons cider vinegar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon pepper

1/4 cup Dijon mustard
3 tablespoons water
1 tablespoon honey
4-4 ounce skinned, boned chicken breast halves
3 tablespoons Spicy Seasoning
Canola oil for cooking chicken
1 pound sugar snap peas, trimmed
8 cups torn romaine lettuce

preparation

Combine the first 7 ingredients and toss well.
Cover and chill. Whisk together lemon juice, mustard, water and honey. Cover and chill.
Rub chicken with Spicy Seasoning. See below.
Lightly oil heavy skillet and place over medium-high heat until hot. Add chicken and cook each side until done. Remove chicken from skillet, and let cool.
Cut chicken across grain into thin slices. Steam snap peas, covered, for 2 minutes. Rinse under cold water, and drain. Add snap peas and lettuce to the lemon juice mixture, and toss well.
Divide the lettuce mixture evenly among 4 plates; top each serving with 1 cup of the tomato mixture and 1 sliced chicken breast half.

Spicy Seasoning:

Combine the following ingredients:
2 1/2 tablespoons paprika
2 tablespoons garlic powder
1 tablespoon salt
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 tablespoon dried thyme
1 tablespoon ground red pepper
1 tablespoon black pepper

Blue cheese and walnut soufflés

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 40 minutes

Cooking time:40 minutes

Ingredients

6

1 quart soufflé mold or 6 6-ounce soufflé molds
1 teaspoon soft butter
1 teaspoon flour

Soufflé:
1 tablespoon butter
3 1/2 teaspoons flour
1 cup milk
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper
5 eggs
1 cup crumbled saga blue cheese or Roquefort cheese
1/2 cup finely copped toasted walnuts
1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar

preparation

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Butter the inside of a 1 quart (7 inch round) soufflé dish or individual soufflé dishes. Coat with flour. Shake any excess out.
In a heavy saucepan melt the butter over moderate heat. Whisk in flour. Cook roux, whisking constantly for 3 minutes. Add milk. Cook while whisking until sauce becomes thick. Remove pan from heat and transfer to a bowl. Season with salt and pepper.
Separate the eggs. Mix egg yolks, cheese and chopped walnuts in the thick cream sauce.
In a bowl, with an electric mixer, whip the egg whites and cream of tartar until they hold stiff peaks. Gently fold into the cheese mixture.
Pour soufflé mixture into mold or divide between individual molds. Bake for 30 to 40 minutes for a large soufflé, about 15 minutes for the small soufflé.
Serve soufflé with mesclun salad or your favorite salad.

Bouillabaisse

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 40 minutes

Cooking time:40 minutes

Bouillabaisse is a testament to the coastal heritage of Marseille, showcasing the region's abundant seafood and Mediterranean influences. It has become an iconic dish in French cuisine, renowned for its complex flavors and rustic charm.

Ingredients

3 pounds dressed fish (bass, cod, flounder, whiting, orange roughie or tilefish)
12 mussels
12 clams
1-2 pound live lobster
1/4 cup olive oil
1 cup chopped onion
1/2 cup cleaned and chopped leek
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons chopped parsley
1 pound tomatoes, peeled, seeded and chopped
1 bouquet garni
4 ounces fennel, cut into julienne
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon saffron
12 slices garlic bread

preparation

Use a variety of fish like bass, cod, flounder, whiting, orange roughie, or tilefish. Cut into 1 inch cubes.
Scrub and wash mussels and clams.
Heat oil in a heavy pot. Add onion and leek. Cook over low heat for 5 minutes. Add garlic, parsley, chopped tomatoes, bouquet garni, salt and saffron.
Cut live lobster across into pieces, and crack the claws.
Layer fish, shellfish and lobster on top of vegetables. Cover with boiling water.
Simmer 15 to 20 minutes. Arrange fish in a serving earthtenware dish. Reduce cooking liquid by one third. Cut bread into round slices. Toast lightly.
Rub with a garlic clove. Pour liquid over fish. Heat, and serve in soup plates with bread.

Bowtie pasta with shrimp and asparagus

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:20 minutes

Ingredients

5 tablespoon olive oil
2 garlic cloves
8 ounce shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 pound asparagus
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon hot red pepper flakes
1/2 cup vegetable stock
2 tablespoon Italian parsley
10 basil leaves
1 pound farfalle pasta
2 tablespoon Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese

preparation

1. Cook the pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water until al dente (firm to the bite), about 8 to 10 minutes.
2. While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large saute pan and cook the garlic until golden. Add the shrimp and saute for an additional 2 minutes.
3. Remove the shrimp from the pan and add the asparagus, salt, hot red pepper flakes, and vegetable stock. Bring the mixture to a boil and simmer for 3 minutes. Return the shrimp to the pan and add the parsley and basil and stir to combine.
4. Add the well-drained pasta to the sauce and stir over low heat until the pasta is coated with the sauce. Remove the pan from the heat and add the Parmigiano-Reggiano and stir. Serve immediately.

Boxty potato cakes

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Cooking time:20 minutes

Traditional Irish boxty potato cakes use both fresh potatoes and leftover mashed potatoes.

Ingredients

1 cup raw, grated potatoes
1 cup leftover mashed potatoes
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
2 teaspoons salt
2 eggs, lightly beaten
1/4 cup buttermilk to mix
Butter or oil for frying

preparation

Place the grated raw potatoes in a clean cloth and twist to remove excess moisture.
Whisk together flour, salt, and baking powder. Combine flour mixture into raw potatoes, mashed potatoes, and eggs. Add buttermilk to make a batter.
Heat a heavy skillet over medium heat and add butter or oil. Drop potato batter by the tablespoon into the hot pan. Brown on both sides (about 4 minutes per side). Butter each boxty and serve hot.

Braised endives in beer

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 30 minutes

Cooking time:40 minutes

Ingredients

12 medium endives
1/2 cup butter
1 cup beer
1 tablespoon sugar
2 chicken bouillon cubes
ground pepper to taste
1/4 cup dry bread crumbs
1/4 cup shredded gruyere
1/4 cup melted butter

preparation

Remove any bruised outer leaves from the endives, leaving the heads intact. Trim the bases and tips and wipe with a damp cloth.
Melt butter in a large skillet.
Arrange endives in the skillet in a single layer. Cook over medium heat to brown the endives on all sides.
Add beer, sugar, and bouillon cubes.
Cover and simmer 20 minutes or until tender. Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
Transfer endives to a gratin dish. Reduce cooking liquid to 3 tablespoons. Sprinkle endives with bread crumbs and shredded cheese.
Pour any remaining liquid from the endives in the skillet over the endives. Pour melted butter over the endives.
Bake endives until golden brown. Serve immediately.

Braised onions

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Cooking time:1 hour 15 minutes

Ingredients

2 pounds onions, thickly sliced
2 tablespoons ketchup
2 tablespoons water
1 tablespoon liquid honey
1 tablespoon butter
1 teaspoon dry mustard
salt and pepper to taste

preparation

In a saucepan of salted boiling water, cook onions for 10 minutes. Drain and transfer to 6-cup casserole.
Mix together ketchup, water, honey, butter, mustard, salt and pepper; pour over onions.
Bake in 350 degree oven for 1 hour or until onions are tender and glazed

Breaded Fish Fingers

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Cooking time:15 minutes

Children will enjoy these fish fingers.

Ingredients

4 white fish fillets, cod, halibut,tilapia, perch or basa fish fillets (about 6 oz/175 g each)
1/3 cup (75 mL) light mayonnaise
3/4 cup (175 mL) dry bread crumbs or panko
1 tbsp (15 mL) minced fresh parsley
1-1/2 tsp (7 mL) Cajun seasoning

garnis: lemon wedgews

preparation

Preheat oven to 450 degress F.
cut fish into 3- x 1-1/2-inch (8 x 4 cm) fingers; place in large bowl.Add mayonnaise; toss to coat.
In shallow dish, combine bread crumbs, parsley and Cajun seasoning; dip fish into bread crumb mixture, turning to coat.

Bake on greased rimmed baking sheet, turning once, for about 15 minutes or until dark golden and fish flakes easily when tested.

Broccoli apricot and red pepper salad

Serves: 5

Preparation time: 10 minutes

Cooking time:10 minutes

Ingredients

4 cups broccoli florets
1 cup thinly sliced carrots
1 small red pepper, cut into thin strips
3/4 cup sliced water chestnuts
1/2 cup chopped red onion
1/2 cup chopped dried apricots
1/3 cup raisins

Dressing:
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/4 cup each light mayonnaise and sour cream
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 1/2 teaspoons minced garlic
freshly ground pepper to taste

preparation

Steam broccoli and carrots until tender crisp; drain and rinse under cold water; drain well.
In a serving cowl, combine broccoli, carrots , red pepper, water chestnuts, red onion, dried apricots and raisins.
Whisk together parsley, mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, garlic and pepper.
Pour over salad; toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate. Serve chilled

Broccoli cauliflower gratin

Serves: 4

Preparation time:25 minutes

Cooking time:45 minutes

Ingredients

1 (3-pound) head cauliflower, cut into large florets
1 to 1 1/2 pounds broccoli, cut into medium florets
Kosher salt
8 tablespoons plus 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/2 cup bleached all-purpose flour
4 cups hot milk
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon grated nutmeg
3/4 cup freshly grated Gruyere or Comte cheese, divided
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan
1/4 cup fresh bread crumbs

preparation

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
Cook the cauliflower florets in a large pot of boiling salted water for 5 to 6 minutes, until tender but still firm. Drain well.
Add the broccoli to the boiling water. Cook until just tender, about 5 minutes. Drain the broccoli in a colander. Rinse under cold running water to cool. Drain well.
Meanwhile, melt the butter in a medium saucepan over low heat. Add the flour, stirring constantly with a whisk for 2 minutes. Pour the hot milk into the butter-flour mixture and stir until it comes to a boil. Boil, whisking constantly, for 1 minute, or until thickened. Off the heat, add 1/2 teaspoon of salt, the pepper, nutmeg, 1/2 cup of the Gruyere, and the Parmesan.
Pour 1/3 of the sauce on the bottom of an 8 by 11 by 2-inch baking dish. Place the drained cauliflower and broccoli on top and then spread the rest of the sauce evenly on top. Combine the bread crumbs with the remaining 1/4 cup of cheese and sprinkle on top. Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and drizzle over the gratin. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the top is browned. Serve hot.

Broccoli stems cabbage slaw

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

1/4 cup raisins
3 or 4 broccoli stems
1/2 small green cabbage
1 small carrot, peeled
1 Granny Smith green apple

COLESLAW DRESSING

Mix well and refrigerate until ready to use.

preparation

Soak raisins into a cup of hot water to soften. Peel the broccoli stems, discarding the tough ends.
Shred with a salad shredder or food processor. Remove and discard tough outer leaves from cabbage.
Shred cabbage fine. Shred carrot with the finest blade. Drain raisins well and add to broccoli, carrot and cabbage shred, mixing well.
Peel and core apple and grate or shred. Add to cabbage-broccoli mixture.
Immediately add Coleslaw Dressing to avoid discoloration of the apple. Toss gently to mix well. Refrigerate for an hour before serving.

COLESLAW DRESSING

Mix well and refrigerate until ready to use.

Brochettes of pork with rosemary

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Cooking time:15 minutes

Ingredients

1 pound lean boneless pork, cubed
For marinade:
1/2 cup dry white wine
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1 teaspoon chopped rosemary leaves
1 teaspoon chopped parsley
1 teaspoon grated lemon rind
1/4 ground black pepper
1/2 cup olive oil
1/4 wine vinegar

preparation

Combine marinade ingredients in a glass bowl. Mix pork cubes into marinade for 1 hour. Remove pork from marinade, and thread through skewers. Broil on a charcoal grill.

Brochettes of salmon

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:20 minutes

Ingredients

2 1/2 pounds salmon fillet
to taste salt and pepper
1 tablespoon lemon juice
4 ounces butter
24 mushroom caps
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 ounces fresh bread crumbs
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
5 cups cooked rice

preparation

PREPARATION
Bone and skin salmon. Cut into 1-inch cubes. Season with salt, pepper and lemon juice. Wash and drain the mushroom caps. Sprinkle with lemon juice. Saute the mushroom caps in half of the butter, for two minutes on each side. Alternate salmon pieces and mushroom caps on metal or bamboo skewers. Dip in remaining melted butter and roll in fresh bread crumbs.
Heat the oil in a large saute pan over medium-high heat. Saute the salmon brochettes until evenly golden brown.
PRESENTATION
Spoon the hot rice in the middle of warm plates. Arrange a brochette on each plate. Serve the hot sauce over the brochettes.

Broiled crab meltaways

Serves: 3

Preparation time: 10 minutes

Cooking time:15 minutes

Ingredients

6 English muffins cut in halves

7 ounces crabmeat
4 ounces butter
7 ounces old English sharp Cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
1/2 teaspoon seasoned salt
1/2 teaspoon garlic salt

preparation

Mix all ingredients well. Spread on English muffin halves. Chill or freeze for future use.
Broil until golden brown. Cut muffins into quarters. Muffin halves can also be served as a luncheon.

Broiled fillets of salmon with ginger cream

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:30 minutes

The broiled salmon fillets are served with a creamy and tangy ginger sauce. Salmon steaks can also be used with this recipe.

Ingredients

6 6-ounces salmon fillets, with the skin
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
to taste, salt, ground black pepper
2 cups fish stock
1 cup dry white wine
2 tablespoons shallots, chopped
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated
2 ounces butter
2 tablespoons fresh ginger, peeled cut into fine strips
2 tablespoons fresh chives, cut into 1/2-inch sticks
1/2 teaspoon paprika

preparation

For the sauce:
In a large saucepan, combine the fish stock, white wine, and shallots. Bring to a boil and reduce the liquid by half. Add the heavy cream and the grated ginger. Bring the liquid back to a boil. Continue to reduce by half or until lightly thickened.
Strain the sauce through a fine strainer. Whisk in the butter, a few bits at the time. Set the sauce aside, and keep in a warm place.
Preheat the broiler. Wash the salmon fillets in cold water. Pat dry. Arrange side by side skin side up in an oiled oven-proof dish. Season with salt and pepper. Place the salmon under the broiler, 4 inches from the source of heat.
Broil for 10 to 12 minutes until the skin is crisp and the flesh is opaque.
PRESENTATION
Cover the bottom of 6 hot plates with some of the hot ginger sauce. Arrange a piece of salmon in the center of each plate. Sprinkle the salmon with strips of ginger and chives. Pour remaining sauce over the fish. Dust with paprika. Serve hot.

Broiled fillets of salmon with green sauce

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:25 minutes

Ingredients

1 tablespoon fresh tarragon leaves
1 cup packed spinach leaves
1 cup packed watercress leaves
1/4 cup parsley or chervil leaves
4 6-ounce salmon fillets, skinned and boned
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cups fish stock
1/2 cup chopped shallots
1 sprig fresh thyme
1 bay leaf
1/2 cup dry white wine
1/2 cup cold butter
to taste salt and ground black pepper
1/4 cup salmon roe

preparation

Blanch the tarragon, spinach, watercress, parsley or chervil in boiling water for 2 minutes. Drain in a strainer and cool under cold running water for 1 minute. Squeeze dry and chop fine. Toss the salmon fillets in olive oil and 1 tablespoon of the blanched herbs. Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour.
Bring the fish stock, shallots, thyme and bay leaf to a boil in a medium saucepan over high heat. Add the white wine and simmer for 15 minutes. Strain the liquid through a fine sieve and discard the herbs and the shallots.
Add the chopped herbs to the fish stock and simmer for 5 minutes. Cut the cold butter into small pieces, and whisk piece by piece into the simmering stock. Season with salt and pepper; keep warm.
Preheat the broiler.
Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Arrange side by side in an oiled oven-proof dish. Place the salmon under the broiler, 4 inches from the source of heat. Broil for 10 to 12 minutes until the flesh is opaque.
PRESENTATION
Divide the green herb sauce between 4 warmed plates, and place a salmon fillet in the center of each. Top each fillet with a dollop of salmon roe. Serve with seasonal vegetables.

Broiled pacific salmon steaks with salsa butter

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:10 minutes

The salmon steaks are marinated in salsa, lime juice, mustard, and garlic, imparting a piquant flavor to the fish. Salmon fillets are also suitable for this recipe.

Ingredients

1/2 cup hot tomato salsa
1/4 cup fresh lime juice
1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard
1 garlic clove, minced
4 6-ounce Pacific salmon steaks, thawed if necessary
1/4 cup butter, softened
3/4 teaspoon lime zest, grated
1/4 teaspoon cumin, ground
to taste salt and pepper
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
for garnish: lime wedges

preparation

Set aside two tablespoons of salsa.
In a medium bowl, combine the remaining salsa, lime juice, mustard, and garlic. Coat salmon steaks in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1/2 hour.
In a medium bowl, combine the soft butter with lime zest, cumin, and the two tablespoons of the reserved salsa. Mix well, and set aside.
Preheat broiler on high.
Remove salmon steaks from marinade (discard marinade); season with salt and pepper. Arrange side by side skin side in an oiled oven-proof dish.
Place the salmon under the broiler, 4 inches from the heat source. Broil 3 minutes per side, or until the fish just flakes when tested with a fork. Bone and skin the salmon steaks.
PRESENTATION
Arrange salmon steaks on warm plates. Spoon a teaspoon of salsa butter on top of each steak. Garnish plates with lime wedges, and a green vegetable (snap peas, or green beans). Serve hot.

Broiled salmon fillets in a horseradish-ginger crust

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 10 minutes

Cooking time:15 minutes

No sooner the broiler is hot, that your salmon is coated with a zesty crust and ready for broiling.

Ingredients

4 5-ounce salmon fillets, skinned and boned
1 1/4 cups fresh bread crumbs
2 tablespoon fresh horseradish, grated or 1/4 cup prepared horseradish, squeezed dry
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
1 tablespoon canola oil
1 tablespoon rice wine or sake
to taste, salt, ground white pepper
for the sauce:
2 tablespoon soy sauce
2 tablespoon rice wine or sake
2 tablespoon water

preparation

Preheat the broiler.
Lightly oil a baking sheet. Wash salmon fillets under cold running water. Pat dry.
Set salmon on the baking sheet.
In a food processor, combine bread crumbs, horseradish, ginger, oil, rice wine or sake, salt and pepper. Process until well blended and moist.
Press one-fourth of the crumb mixture over the top of each salmon fillet. Broil about 4 inches from the heat source, until the crust is golden brown, and the salmon is opaque in the center, about 8 to 10 minutes.
For the sauce:
While the salmon is broiling, stir the sauce ingredients in a small bowl. Serve alongside the salmon.

Bruschetta orzo salad

Serves: 2

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Cooking time:None

Ingredients

3/4 cup orzo, freshly cooked, rinsed and drained
2 medium Italian tomatoes, cored, seeded and chopped
2 tablespoons chopped black olives
1/2 cup red onion finely diced
1/3 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
2 1/2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
2 large garlic cloves, finely chopped
1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil

preparation

Combine all ingredients in bowl. Cover and chill at least 1 hour. Serve with toasted garlic bread

Brussels Sprout and radicchio Slaw

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:10 minutes

After combining the slaw with the dressing, be sure to let it stand for 15 minutes to slightly wilt the brussels sprouts.

Ingredients

1/2 cup pecan halves
1 1/2 tsp. plus 1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 tsp. kosher salt, plus more, to taste
1 tsp. sugar
Pinch of cayenne pepper
2 lb. brussels sprouts, trimmed and fibrous stems removed
1 small head radicchio, quartered and cored
2 Tbs. cider vinegar
1 Tbs. fresh lemon juice
2 Tbs. whole-grain mustard
2 Tbs. maple syrup
1/4 cup olive oil
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

preparation

Preheat an oven to 350°F.

In a small bowl, combine the pecans, the 1 1/2 tsp. olive oil, the 1/4 tsp. salt, the sugar and cayenne and stir to coat evenly. Transfer to a baking sheet and toast in the oven until browned, 10 to 12 minutes. Let cool.

Bring large pot of water to boil. Add 2 teaspoons salt. Add brussels sprouts. Cook until crisp-tender about 5 minutes. Drain; rinse with cold water.
Using a food processor fitted with 1/8- to 1/4-inch slicing disk, slice brussels sprouts and radicchio. Transfer to a large bowl and stir to combine.

In a small bowl, whisk together the vinegar, lemon juice, mustard and maple syrup. Slowly whisk in the 1/4 cup olive oil and season with salt and black pepper.

Add half of the dressing to the brussels sprout-radicchio mixture and toss well to combine, adding more dressing as needed. Let stand for 15 minutes to slightly wilt the brussels sprouts. Top with the pecans and serve immediately.

Buckwheat Crêpes - galettes de sarrasin

Serves: 6

Preparation time:2 hours

Cooking time:40 minutes

A buckwheat pancake is a pancake made with buckwheat flour. The types of buckwheat pancake associated with specific regions include:

• Blini, Eastern Europe, with a buckwheat variety particularly popular in Russia, Ukraine (hrechanyky or гречаники), and Lithuania (grikių blynai)

• Crêpe bretonne, a savory pancake known as (bleud ed-du) from Brittany in
France

• Kaletez (galette de sarrasin), a buckwheat pancake in Breton cuisine

• Memil-buchimgae, a variety of Korean pancake with buckwheat flour and
cabbage

• Ploye, a Canadian pancake, particularly popular in the Province of New Brunswick

Ingredients

1 cup whole or 2% milk
1/3 cup water
3 large eggs
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup buckwheat flour
1/2 cup unbleached white flour
3 tablespoons canola oil
For the Buckwheat Crêpes With Spinach and Egg
6 ounces baby spinach, cooked and chopped seasoned
with
salt
freshly ground pepper to taste
2 buckwheat crêpes, above
2 eggs, poached or fried for four minutes
2 tablespoons grated Gruyère or Comte cheese

preparation

Step 1
Place the milk, water, eggs and salt in a blender. Cover the blender, and turn on at low speed. Add the flours, then the canola oil, and blend for one minute at medium speed. Transfer to a bowl, cover and refrigerate for one to two hours.

Step 2
Place a seasoned 7- or 8-inch crêpe pan or cast-iron pan over medium heat. Brush with butter or oil, and when the pan is hot, remove from the heat and ladle in about 3 tablespoons batter. Tilt or swirl the pan to distribute the batter evenly, and return to the heat. Cook for about one minute, until you can easily loosen the edges with a spatula. Turn and cook on the other side for 30 seconds. Turn onto a plate. Continue until all of the batter is used.

Step 3
Heat the crêpes in a dry skillet over medium heat (or use the skillet you used to fry your eggs). Top with a spoonful of spinach, setting the egg to one side so you can fold the crêpe over. Sprinkle the cheese over the top, fold the crêpe over, and transfer to a plate with a spatula. Serve hot.
PS: In France the crepe is made on a large, flat, hot griddle, and the egg is cracked right on top of it.

Cabbage diet soup

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Cooking time:40 minutes

Ingredients

2 green peppers
2 medium onions, peeled
2 cans whole crushed tomatoes
1 small head chopped cabbage
1 bunch celery
1 package dry onion soup mix

preparation

Wash peppers, cut in halves and remove seeds. Cut the vegetables into medium-sized pieces.
Combine vegetables in a large soup pot. Add onion soup mix and cover with water.
Cook on high heat for 10 minutes, then lower heat and simmer until tender.

Calentita (gibraltarian chickpea bread)

Serves: 8

Preparation time:10 minutes

Cooking time:1 hour

It is believed this dish is based on the Genoese 'farinata' which is cooked thinner and often with toppings whereas calentita is cooked in a deeper pan and is never topped with anything but black pepper. Dishes made with chickpea flour date back to ancient times and are quite common around the Mediterranean, such as Nice’s chickpea flour pancake, socca, and Italy’s farinata.

Ingredients

2 cups chickpea flour
2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
3 3/4 cups water
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

preparation

Whisk together the chickpea flour, salt and pepper in a large bowl
Slowly add the water and whisk to combine. Cover and allow the mixture to rest for at least 2 hours and preferably overnight. (If resting the batter for more than 2 hours, store it in the refrigerator.)
When you are ready to bake the calentita, preheat the oven to 400°F. Pour the olive oil in the bottom of a 9x13-inch glass or metal baking dish and swirl it around to coat the bottom. Place the baking dish in the oven while it is preheating so that the dish can get very hot.
When the oven has reached the desired temperature and the baking dish is quite hot, carefully, remove the baking dish from the oven and pour the calentita batter into the dish. Return the dish to the oven.
Bake the calentita until firm and golden brown on the top, 55 to 60 minutes. Remove from the oven and cut into squares. Leave to stand for a while. Serve immediately.

Calzones

Serves: 8

Preparation time: 35 minutes

Cooking time:50 minutes

Ingredients

1/3 cup diced peeled eggplant
2 cups chopped onions
1 1/2 cups diced mushrooms
1 1/2 cups diced zucchini
1 cup diced red peppers
to taste salt and pepper
1 teaspoon olive oil
1 cup feta cheese or chèvre
1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
1 batch bread dough for calzones
1 egg white

preparation

Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Combine in a large bowl, diced peeled eggplant, chopped onion, diced mushrooms, diced zucchini, diced red pepper, salt and pepper. Toss together with olive oil.
Bake at 425 degree F. on baking sheet for 45 minutes stirring every 15 minutes or till soft. Spoon back in bowl.
Mix in crumbled feta cheese or chèvre, and chopped fresh basil. Roll out bread dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch. Cut into 7-inch circles. Spoon 1/2 cup of the vegetable mixture over circles.
Brush edges of dough with egg white. Fold dough into turnovers. Seal and brush with egg white.
Bake till golden. Mixture can also be used for pizza or for pasta.

Cannellonis

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 30 minutes

Cooking time:40 minutes

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 cup onion, chopped
1/4 cup parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon minced garlic
10 ounces spinach, cooked
2 tablespoons butter
1 pound ground beef, lean
2 tablespoons parmesan, grated
2 eggs
1 teaspoon oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper, ground
12 crêpes (see recipe)
2 cups cream sauce (see recipe)
1 cup marinara sauce
2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese

preparation

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a sauté pan. Add onion, garlic and parsley and cook over medium heat for 3 to 5 minutes. Do not brown. Add chopped cooked spinach.
In a skillet, brown ground beef in remaining olive oil. Chop in a processor. Add grated Parmesan, eggs, oregano, salt and pepper to taste. Blend in the spinach mixture.
Divide filling in crêpes. Roll to enclose filling.
Coat the bottom of a baking dish with marinara sauce. Arrange stuffed crêpes in baking dish.
Spoon the cream sauce and tomato sauce over crêpes.
Sprinkle with parmesan.
Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until brown.

Caprese salad

Serves: 4

Preparation time:15 minutes

Cooking time:None

Insalata Caprese, also known as Caprese Salad is a traditional Italian appetizer. Fresh summer tomatoes, fresh basil, and soft mozzarella cheese (not the rubbery and dry version) make this salad a summer favorite. The salad has its origins from the island of Capri in Italy, south of the coast of Naples.
The creamy mozzarella in this salad is arguably the perfect counterbalance to the humble tomato, thanks to its rich yet subtle taste and mellow dairy notes.

Ingredients

4 large vine-ripened or heirloom tomatoes sliced into 1/4 inch slices
1 pound fresh mozzarella cheese sliced into 1/4 inch slices
15-20 basil leaves sliced into ribbons
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
kosher/sea salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon balsamic reduction (optional)

preparation

Caramelized onion biscuits

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 40 minutes

Cooking time:20 minutes

Ingredients

4 tablespoons butter
1 medium diced onion
2 cups flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon pepper
6 tablespoons vegetable shortening or butter
1/2 cup milk

preparation

Preheat oven to 425 degrees Fry diced onion in butter until caramelized, about 15 to 20 minutes.
Combine cooled onions, flour, baking powder, salt and pepper. Rub in vegetable shortening or butter. Mix in 1/2 cup milk. Gently knead dough. Pat out to a 1-inch thickness.
Cut into round or square biscuits. Place in a greased 9-inch pan so that they touch. Brush melted butter over. Bake until well browned, about 20 minutes.
Serve with BLACK BEAN SOUP

Caramelized spring onion and gruyère tart

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:1 hour

Serve with a simple tossed salad or grilled asparagus.

Ingredients

1 pound frozen butter puff pastry, thawed
1 tsp (5 mL) olive oil
450 g spring bulb onions, trimmed and sliced
2 tbsp (30 mL) balsamic vinegar
2 tsp (10 mL) liquid honey
1/4 tsp (1 mL) each salt and pepper
1 tsp (5 mL) chopped fresh thyme
1 egg, beaten
2 tbsp (30 mL) whipping cream 35%
1 tbsp (15 mL) Dijon mustard
1-1/4 cups (300 mL) shredded Gruyère or Comté cheese

preparation

Unroll puff pastry; press into fluted 9-inch (23 cm) tart pan with removable bottom. Line with foil; fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake on bottom rack in 400 F (200 C) oven for 20 minutes. Remove weights and foil; let cool in pan on rack.

Meanwhile, in skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat; cook onions, stirring, until golden, about 3 minutes. Add 1/4 cup water; reduce heat to medium. Cover and cook, stirring occasionally, until no liquid remains and onions are soft, about 5 to 8 minutes.

Stir in vinegar, honey and half each of the salt and pepper; cook, stirring, until onions are dark golden, about 8 minutes. Remove from heat; stir in 3/4 tsp of the thyme. Set aside.

Stir together egg, cream, mustard, and remaining salt and pepper. Sprinkle bottom of pastry with half of the Gruyère or Comté cheese; top with onion mixture. Pour egg mixture over top; sprinkle with remaining cheese and thyme.

Bake in 400 F (200 C) oven until crust is golden and knife inserted in centre comes out clean, about 25 minutes. Let stand for 10 minutes before cutting into wedges.

Carpaccio of marinated salmon

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 30 minutes

The raw paper-thin fresh salmon is combined a tangy dressing and a garnish of roasted sweet red peppers, and diced fresh tomatoes. You can prepare the salmon 2 hours in advance. Season only when ready to serve.

Ingredients

1 pound salmon fillet, fresh
5 tablespoons green peppercorns, chopped
2 tablespoons lemon juice
to taste, salt
5 tablespoons olive oil
1 large sweet red pepper
2 large tomatoes
6 sprigs fresh parsley
12 slices toasted french bread

preparation

When serving raw fish, you must buy extra-fresh fish of the highest quality and serve it the same day. Bone and skin the salmon fillet. Cut into 6 equal slices.
Lay an 11-inch square sheet of plastic wrap flat on a working surface. Place one slice of salmon in the middle and cover with a second 11-inch square of plastic.
Gently flatten the salmon with a meat pounder, mallet, or a heavy skillet into a disk about 5 to 6 inches in diameter, shaping it as round and thin as possible. Repeat the same process with the other 5 pieces of salmon.
Stack the 6 wrapped salmon disks on a plate and refrigerate until needed.
In a cup, mix the green peppercorns, lemon juice, salt, and oil. Set the carpaccio dressing aside. Preheat broiler.
Split the red peppers in halves; remove seeds. Place the red pepper halves on an oiled baking sheet and broil until skin becomes dark, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
Peel the blackened skin off under cold water. Pat dry with paper towel, cut into matchsticks, and set aside.
Dip the tomatoes in boiling water for 8 to 10 seconds, transfer to cold water for a minute. Peel the tomatoes, split in halves, squeeze the seeds out. Cut tomato pieces into 1/4-inch dices, and set aside.
Remove the wrapped salmon slices from the refrigerator. Discard the top layer of plastic from each salmon disk and place salmon side down on a cold serving plate. Discard the remaining sheet of plastic. Repeat the same process with the remaining salmon disks.
PRESENTATION
Drizzle the carpaccio dressing equally over each salmon disk. Garnish each plate with the red pepper strips, diced tomatoes, and parsley sprigs.
Serve with toasted french bread.
Note: Another variation is to serve the salmon carpaccio with a gazpacho salad or a tabouleh salad.

Carrot bran muffins

Serves: 12

Preparation time: 30 minutes

Cooking time:18 minutes

Ingredients

1 1/4 cups whole wheat flour
1 1/4 cups high fiber bran cereal
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
2 eggs
1 cup grated carrots
3/4 cup buttermilk
1/3 cup packed brown sugar
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1/2 cup raisins

preparation

In a large bowl, stir flour, cereal, baking powder, baking soda and seasonings.
In a separate bowl, beat eggs thoroughly. Stir in carrots, buttermilk, brown sugar and oil.
Add to dry ingredients just until moistened. Stir in raisins. Spoon into greased muffin cups 3/4 full and bake at 400 degrees F. for 15 to 18 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Transfer muffins on a rack to cool.

Carrot ginger soup

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Cooking time:30 minutes

Ingredients

3 ounces butter
1 medium onion, peeled and slced
3 ounces flour
8 cups chicken broth
1 pound carrots, peeled and sliced
1 tablespoon sliced ginger
1/2 cup milk
salt and pepper to taste

preparation

In a saucepan melt butter. Add onion. Mix for a minute. Do not brown. Pour chicken broth. Mix well with roux. Add sliced carrots and sliced ginger. Simmer for 30 minutes.
Puree soup in a blender. Strain. Add milk. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Serve hot.

Carrot gnocchi

Serves: 2

Preparation time: 40 minutes

Cooking time:30 minutes

Ingredients

1/2 pound carrots
1 teaspoon finely chopped onion
3 teaspoons butter
1 cup Parmigiano-reggiano cheese
3 teaspoons flour
1 large egg yolk
salt, pepper, and nutmeg to taste
3 teaspoons chopped fresh chives

preparation

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
Peel and slice carrots. Boil until tender. Drain.
In a medium skillet, cook the onion in 1 tablespoon butter, over moderate heat, stirring until pale gold.
Add carrots, and cook for 5 minutes while stirring occasionally.
Transfer the carrots to a food processor, and puree until smooth. Transfer the puree to a bowl. Add 3 tablespoons of the cheese, the flour and egg yolk, and season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg; mix well.
Bring a wide shallow saucepan of water to a boil and add 1 tablespoon salt. Prepare a bowl of ice cold water. Shape the carrot mixture into ovals, using two soup spoons, scooping a portion between the spoons.
Slide 4 of the gnocchi at the time into the boiling water and cook just until they rise to the surface, about a minute or less.
When the gnocchi are done, transfer to the cold water.
Lightly butter a baking dish large enough to hold the gnocchi in a layer without crowding.
Drain the gnocchi and arrange them in the prepared baking baking dish.
Sprinkle with remaining cheese and butter. Bake for 10 minutes. Sprinkle with chives and serve at once.

Carrot soufflé

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 30 minutes

Cooking time:30 minutes

Ingredients

1 tablespoon butter, softened
1 tablespoon flour

1 cup carrot puree *
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
1 teaspoon finely minced garlic
1 tablespoon flour
1 teaspoon cornstarch
1 1/2 cups milk
salt, and freshly ground pepper
6 eggs yolks
1/2 cup finely chopped basil
6 egg whites
1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar

preparation

* Peel and cook sliced carrots until soft. Drain, and place carrot slices in a 350 degree oven for 10 minutes. Puree in a mixer. The carrot puree should be thick.

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Brush the interior of a 6-cup soufflé mold with the softened butter.
In a heavy saucepan heat the olive oil. Add the onions and garlic. Cook briefly while stirring, until onions are wilted. Stir in the flour and cornstarch. Add the milk. Cook while whisking until sauce becomes thick.
Tranfer the bubbly sauce to a large mixing bowl. Season with salt and pepper and mix in chopped basil.
Mix egg yolks, and carrot puree into the thick cream sauce. This mixture can be prepared 2 hours ahead.
Using an electric beater, whip the egg whites and cream of tartar until stiff and glossy. Do not overbeat. Gently fold into cream sauce mixture. Pour and scrape the mixture into the prepared soufflé mold.
Place on a baking sheet. Cook for 20 to 30 minutes. Serve at once.

Carrot soufflé with parsley sauce

Serves: 6

Preparation time:40 minutes

Cooking time:30 minutes

Ingredients

4 to 6

1-1/3 cups (325 mL) milk
3 cloves garlic
1/4 cup (60 mL) butter
4 cups (1 L) finely shredded carrots (about 12 oz/375 g)
1 tsp (5 mL) salt
1/4 tsp (1 mL) white pepper
Pinch nutmeg
1/4 cup (60 mL) all-purpose flour
6 eggs, separated
Pinch cream of tartar

Parsley Sauce:
Half bunch fresh parsley
1/3 cup (75 mL) chopped blanched almonds
1/2 cup (125 mL) (approx) vegetable stock
1/4 tsp (1 mL) salt
1 tbsp (15 mL) almond oil or olive oil

preparation

In small saucepan, bring milk to simmer; add whole garlic cloves and simmer until tender, about 10 minutes. Remove garlic from milk; set milk and garlic aside.

Grease and flour 10-cup/2.5 L soufflé dish; set aside. Preheat oven to 425°F/220°C.

In saucepan, melt butter over medium-high heat; sauté carrots, salt, pepper and nutmeg until carrots are soft, 5 to 6 minutes. Stir in flour; cook, stirring, for 2 minutes. Stir in reserved milk; bring to boil. Reduce heat to medium; simmer, stirring, for 3 minutes. Scrape into large bowl. Whisk in egg yolks.

In separate bowl, beat egg whites with cream of tartar until stiff peaks form; fold one-third into carrot mixture. Fold in remaining whites. Scrape into prepared soufflé dish. Place on middle rack of oven; reduce heat to 400°F/200°C. Bake until puffed and golden, 25 to 30 minutes.

Parsley Sauce: Trim off long stems of parsley and discard. In pot of boiling salted water, blanch parsley for 30 seconds. Drain, chill under cold water and drain again. Using kitchen towel, press out any excess moisture. Chop parsley and add to small bowl of food processor; whirl with almonds, stock, salt and reserved poached garlic until fairly smooth, adding a little more stock if sauce is too thick. Stir in oil. Serve soufflé with sauce on the side.

Carrot timbales

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 30 minutes

Cooking time:20 minutes

Ingredients

1 pound carrots, peeled
1 teaspoon butter
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, ground
2 eggs
2 egg whites
1/2 cup light cream
2 teaspoons roux (½ butter, ½ flour)
1/2 cup parsley, chopped
1/2 cup basil, chopped

preparation

Cut carrots into small pieces.
Cook in butter, broth and salt Drain carrots. Save the cooking liquid. Puree carrots in a food processor.
Season with nutmeg. Beat in the eggs and cream. Pour carrot mixture in individual buttered molds.
Bake at 400 degrees F for 20 minutes, or until mixture is firm. Bring the cooking liquid to a boil in a saucepan.
Thicken with the roux.
Mix in the chopped herbs.
Unmold the carrot timbales on warm plates. Pour a tablespoon of sauce over each carrot. Decorate with a sprig of herb. Serve hot.

Celery root and fennel slaw with green apple and manchego

Serves: 4

Preparation time:20 minutes

Cooking time:5 minutes

Ingredients

1/3 cup raw pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
1/2 cup olive oil
Kosher salt, freshly ground pepper
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1/4 cup rice wine vinegar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
2 teaspoons pure maple syrup
4 cups very thinly sliced fennel
1 1/2 cups matchsticks Granny Smith apple (from about 1/2 large)
1 1/2 cups matchsticks peeled celery root (from about 1/4 small) or celery
1 1/2 cups matchsticks peeled daikon (from about 1/2 medium)
3 ounces Manchego cheese, shaved, divided

preparation

Preheat oven to 350°F. Toss pumpkin seeds and 1 tsp. oil on a rimmed baking sheet; season with salt and pepper. Bake until golden brown and puffed, about 5 minutes; let cool. Finely chop 2 Tbsp. pumpkin seeds.  
Whisk chopped pumpkin seeds, lemon juice, mustard, maple syrup, vinegar and remaining oil in a medium bowl; season dressing with salt and pepper. 

Combine fennel, Asian pear, celery root, Granny Smith apple, most of the Manchego, and remaining pumpkin seeds in a large bowl. Drizzle dressing over top and toss to combine; season with salt and pepper. Top with remaining Manchego.

Celery root remoulade

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

1 medium celery root, about 12 ounces
1 Granny Smith apple
1/2 cup non-fat plain yogurt
2 tablespoons heavy cream
4 teaspoons Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon coarse salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper

preparation

Peel celery root; core apple. Grate both on the large holes of a box grater. Toss with lemon juice.
Whisk together yogurt, cream, mustard, salt and pepper. Add to celery root and apple; and toss to combine.
Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Cheese jalapeño soufflé

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 40 minutes

Cooking time:30 minutes

Ingredients

1 tablespoon butter, softened
1 tablespoon flour

3 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons flour
1 teaspoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon finely chopped jalapeno peppers
1 cup milk
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
salt, and freshly ground pepper to taste
6 eggs yolks
1 1/2 cups grated Swiss cheese or cheddar cheese
2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh coriander
6 egg whites
1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar

preparation

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Brush the interior of a 6-cup soufflé mold with the softened butter. Coat with flour. Shake any excess out.
In a heavy saucepan melt the butter. Stir in the flour, cornstarch and jalapeño peppers. Stir to blend, then add the milk. Cook while whisking until sauce becomes thick.
Tranfer the bubbly sauce to a large mixing bowl. Season with Worcestershire sauce, salt and pepper. Mix egg yolks, cheese, and coriander into the thick cream sauce.
Using an electric, whip the egg whites and cream of tartar until stiff and glossy. Do not overbeat.
Gently fold into cream sauce mixture. Pour and scrape the mixture into the prepared soufflé mold. Place on a baking sheet.
Cook in the middle of the oven for 20 to 30 minutes.

Cheese soufflé

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 40 minutes

Cooking time:40 minutes

Ingredients

1 tablespoon butter, softened
1 tablespoon flour

4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) butter
1/2 cup flour
2 cups milk
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground nutmeg
5 eggs
1 cup (4 oz by weight) grated Swiss cheese
1 cup (4 oz by weight) grated cheddar cheese
1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar

preparation

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.
Brush the interior of 2 4-cup soufflé molds with the softened butter. Dust the bottom and sides with flour. Set aside.
In a heavy saucepan melt the butter. Stir in the flour with a wooden spoon And cook over low heat for 3 minutes. Add the milk. Cook over medium-high Heat while whisking until sauce becomes thick and bubbly. Transfer the sauce to a large mixing bowl. Season with salt and pepper and nutmeg. Separate the eggs.
Mix egg yolks and cheeses in the thick cream sauce. (can be prepared 2 hours in advance up to this point.) In an electric mixing bowl, whip the egg whites with cream of tartar until the whites are firm fluffy. Using a rubber spatula, gently fold the whites into the cheese mixture.
Pour soufflé mixture into mold. Bake for 30 to 40 minutes. Reduce the oven temperature to 350 degrees F. after 10 minutes Soufflé should rise two inches or more above mold. Serve when ready. I serve cheese soufflé with tomato basil sauce or melted brie.

Chicken and pasta salad with asparagus

Serves: 10

Preparation time: 30 minutes

Cooking time:105 minutes

30 minutes

Ingredients

For oven-poached chicken:
1-5 pound roasting chicken
1 1/2 cups chicken stock
1/2 cup white wine
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon tarragon and thyme

For salad:
1 pound rotini pasta
1 pound asparagus, cooked
1/2 pound snow peas, trimmed and blanched
1 red pepper, seeded and sliced
1/2 cup almonds, unblanched and toasted

For basil-tarragon dressing:
1/2 cup white onion, chopped
2 teaspoons sugar
2 teaspoons each fresh basil and tarragon
1 garlic clove, minced
1 cup vegetable oil
1/2 cup white wine vinegar
to taste salt and pepper

preparation

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
Place roasting chicken in large pan.
In glass measure, combine stock, wine, bay leaf, tarragon and thyme; pour over chicken. Cover pan with foil.
Bake 1 1/2 hours or until drumsticks move easily in sockets. Remove pan from heat; set aside to cool completely.
Remove chicken to board; strain stock and reserve for another use, such as soup.
Remove all meat from chicken, discarding skin and bones; cut meat into 2-by 1-inch pieces. Place chicken meat in large bowl; refrigerate, covered up to 24 hours.
In large pot of boiling salted water, cook pasta 5 to 7 minutes. Drain well; rinse under running water.
Cut asparagus into 2-inch pieces; add to snow peas and chicken, along with red pepper and almonds.
Dressing:
In food processor, combine onion, parsley, sugar, basil, tarragon and garlic. Process until finely chopped. Add oil, vinegar, salt and pepper; process until creamy and well combined. Add dressing to salad; toss well. Spoon unto serving platter. Refrigerate, covered, until ready to serve.

Chicken and shrimp salad california

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

3 cooked chicken legs
3 ounces celery
2 hard boiled eggs
20 small cooked shrimp
1 tablespoon mayonnaise
1 teaspoon sour cream
1 small diced shallot
1 teaspoon wine
2 teaspoons ketchup
1 1/2 teaspoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon A1 sauce
1 teaspoon dill
4 leaves radicchio

preparation

Cut chicken meat into julienne. Cut celery into small pieces.
Slice eggs and combine all in a bowl. Add the shrimp.
Combine mayonnaise, sour cream, shallots. white wine, ketchup, lemon juice, A1 sauce, and dill to make a dressing.
Toss the salad. Arrange on radicchio leaves.

Chicken croquettes

Serves: 12

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:20 minutes

Ingredients

1 1/2 pounds cooked chicken, boned and skinned
8 ounces blanched sweetbreads
8 ounces sautéed mushrooms
1 ounce butter
1 1/2 ounces flour
2 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon cayenne
12 wedges lemon
4 eggs
1/2 cup flour
1 cup bread crumbs
2 ounces heavy cream
1/2 teaspoon cornstarch
Oil for frying

preparation

Dice chicken meat, sweetbreads, and clean mushrooms into small cubes.
Prepare a roux from butter and flour. Add chicken broth and simmer for 15 minutes.
Add cubed chicken, sweetbreads, and mushrooms. Season with lemon juice, cayenne, and salt. Mix egg yolks, heavy cream and cornstarch and fold into boiling mixture.
Pour onto a greased sheet pan 1/2 inch thick and cover with buttered parchment paper.
Chill well cut into 1 1/2 ounce rectangular pieces. Dip into flour, egg white, and breadcrumbs, and deep fry at 350 degrees for 1 1/2 to 2 minutes.
Serve with lemon wedge or a cocktail sauce. Allow two croquettes per person.

Chicken fingers

Serves: 8

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:5 minutes

Ingredients

8 large chicken breasts
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon seasoned salt
1/2 teaspoon Aromat seasoning
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
2 cups flour
5 eggs
3 cups fresh breadcrumbs
oil for frying

preparation

Skin chicken breasts. Remove breast bone. Cut breast meat into 1 inch wide by 2 to 4 inches long.
In a mixing bowl, combine lemon juice, seasoned salt, Aromat seasoning, Dijon mustard, poultry seasoning, and pepper. Blend seasonings with chicken.
Marinate for an hour or more. Roll chicken pieces in flour. Dip in beaten beaten eggs, and coat with bread crumbs.
Deep fry at 350 degrees for 3 to 5 minutes or until golden brown.

Chicken paté

Serves: 10

Preparation time: 1 hour

Cooking time:1 hour 30 minutes

Ingredients

1-2 1/2 pound whole chicken
1/2 teaspoon salt
4 chopped juniper berries
1 ounce white wine
4 chicken livers
2 teaspoons Madeira
6 ounces cèpes
2 ounces walnuts
1/4 ounce pistachio nuts
1/4 ounce spice blend
1 pork caul
1 pound basic forcemeat
2 teaspoons black pepper
1 teaspoon butter
Parsley for garnish

preparation

Bone and butterfly chicken.
Remove breast and leg meat. Save skin. Butterfly chicken breast and pound lightly.
Cube meat from chicken legs. Season breast meat with salt and juniper berries and marinate in white wine for 2 hours. Drain and dry.
Season livers with salt and marinate in Madeira.
Combine cubed chicken leg meat, mushrooms, walnuts, and pistachio. Season with salt and season blend and fold into forcemeat.
Grease a 2 quart mold, dust with black pepper. Line with pork caul. Line with chicken skin and breast.
Fill with forcemeat, press, and fold caul over forcemeat. Sprinkle with pepper and cover with foil.
Bake at 300 degrees for 1 1/2 hours. Cool, unmold and chill. Slice into 1/2-inch slices. Serve cold.

Chicken salad

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Cooking time:None

Ingredients

12 ounces cooked chicken
4 ounces diced celery
20 pieces pecans
1 diced shallot
2 hard cooked eggs, chopped
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1/2 cup mayonnaise
salt and white pepper to taste
8 leaves lettuce

preparation

Dice chicken. Combine with celery, nuts, shallots,chopped hard cooked eggs, and lemon juice.
Fold in mayonnaise and season with salt and pepper. Serve on lettuce leaf.

Chicken salad and avocados

Serves: 8

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Cooking time:10 minutes

Ingredients

6 tablespoons vinegar
1 tablespoon gin
4 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon sugar
1/4 teaspoon white pepper

6 cooked chicken breasts or chicken thighs
2 ripe avocados
2 teaspoons lemon juice
8 slices blanched and peeled tomatoes
4 teaspoons sour cream
1 bunch watercress

preparation

Combine vinegar, gin, olive oil, salt, sugar, and pepper. Skin, bone, and cube the chicken.
Marinate in dressing for 10 to 15 minutes. Peel avocados and cut into wedges; season to taste with salt pepper, and lemon juice.

Spoon marinated chicken on each plate; decorate with wedges of avocado, tomato slices, dollops of sour cream or creme fraiche, and watercress.

Chicken salad with couscous

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:20 minutes

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
2 medium cucumbers, peeled, seeded and chopped
1 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped fine
1 green pepper, cut into small chunks
4 green onions, tops included, chopped
1 package (10 ounces) couscous, prepared according to package directions
Dressing: recipe follows
mint leaves for garnish

Dressing:
In blender or processor, place
1 large chopped garlic clove
1 chopped green onion
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard and 2 teaspoons sugar.

preparation

Heat olive oil in a large frying pan over medium high heat. Sprinkle chicken with salt and pepper; dredge in oil in pan to coat. Cook about 10 minutes on each side until chicken is fully cooked.
Remove chicken from pan and cut into bite-size pieces; place in large bowl. Add cucumber, chopped mint, green pepper and onions. Place prepared couscous in large bowl and fluff with fork. Add chicken mixture and stir gently.
Pour Dressing over all and toss gently to mix well. Garnish with mint leaves.

Dressing:
In blender or processor, place
1 large chopped garlic clove
1 chopped green onion
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard and 2 teaspoons sugar.

Process until blended, slowly adding
1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil.

Chicken salad with pasta and asparagus

Serves: 10

Preparation time: 40 minutes

Cooking time:1 hour

Ingredients

Oven-Poached Chicken:

1 4 to 5 pound roasting chicken
1 1/2 cups chicken stock
1/2 cup dry white wine
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon dried tarragon
1 teaspoon dried thyme

Salad:
1 pound rotini pasta
1 pound asparagus
1/2 pound snow peas, trimmed
1 red pepper, seeded and sliced
1/2 cup unblanched almonds, toasted

Basil-Tarragon Dressing:
1/2 cup chopped onion
2 tablespoons white sugar
2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
2 tablespoons chopped fresh tarragon
1 clove garlic, minced
1 cup canola oil
1/2 cup white wine vinegar
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper

preparation

Place chicken in large roasting pan. Combine chicken stock, wine, bay leaf, tarragon and thyme; pour over chicken, cover with foil and bake in a 375 degree oven until drumsticks move easily and liquid runs clear.
Remove from pan and cool completely. Remove all meat from chicken and cut into bite size pieces. Cover and refrigerate up to 24 hours. Cook pasta until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold running water. Break off tough ends of asparagus. Cook in boiling water until tender-crisp. Add snow peas to asparagus for 30 seconds. Drain vegetables and rinse under cold running water. Cut asparagus into bite-size pieces; add asparagus and snow peas to chicken, along with red pepper and almonds.
In food processor, combine onion, parsley, sugar, basil, tarragon and garlic; process until finely chopped. Add oil, vinegar, salt and pepper; process until creamy. Add dressing to salad and toss well.

Chickpea salad

Serves: 4

Preparation time:15 minutes

Cooking time:5 minutes

Ingredients

For the Chickpea Salad:
1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 red onion, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, diced
1 orange bell pepper, diced
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
For the Dressing:
1 clove garlic, finely minced or grated
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon mustard
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt

preparation

Rinse and thoroughly drain the chickpeas. Add to a large skillet or cast iron pan along with the tablespoon of olive oil. Saute on medium high heat, stirring often, for about 5 minutes until the chickpeas are slightly crisped.
Make the dressing by whisking together the minced garlic, extra-virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, mustard, dried oregano, salt, and pepper in a serving bowl.
Add the chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, sliced red onions, diced orange and yellow bell peppers and parsley to the bowl and toss. Top with the crumbled feta cheese and serve at room temperature.

Chickpea stew with coconut and turmeric

Serves: 4

Preparation time:50 minutes

Cooking time:1 hour

Ingredients

¼ cup olive oil, plus more for serving
4 garlic cloves, chopped
1 large yellow onion, chopped
1 (2-inch) piece ginger, finely chopped
Kosher salt and black pepper
1 ½ teaspoons ground turmeric, plus more for serving
1 teaspoon red-pepper flakes, plus more for serving
2 (15-ounce) cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed
2 (15-ounce) cans full-fat coconut milk
2 cups vegetable stock
1 bunch Swiss chard, kale or collard greens, stems removed, torn into bite-size pieces
1 cup mint leaves, for serving
Yogurt, for serving (optional)

preparation

Heat 1/4 cup oil in a large pot over medium. Add garlic, onion and ginger. Season with salt and pepper, and cook, stirring occasionally until onion is translucent and starts to brown a little at the edges, 3 to 5 minutes.
Add 1 1/2 teaspoons turmeric, 1 teaspoon red-pepper flakes, and the chickpeas, and season with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring frequently, so the chickpeas sizzle and fry a bit in the spices and oil, until they’ve started to break down and get a little browned and crisp, 8 to 10 minutes. Remove about a cup of chickpeas and set aside for garnish.
Using a wooden spoon or spatula, further crush the remaining chickpeas slightly to release their starchy insides. (This will help thicken the stew.) Add coconut milk and stock, and season with salt and pepper.
Bring to a simmer, scraping up any bits that have formed on the bottom of the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until stew has thickened, 30 to 35 minutes.

Add greens and stir, making sure they’re submerged in the liquid. Cook until they wilt and soften, 3 to 7 minutes, depending on what you’re using. (Swiss chard and spinach will wilt and soften much faster than kale or collard greens.) Season again with salt and pepper.
Divide among bowls and top with mint, reserved chickpeas, a sprinkle of red-pepper flakes and a good drizzle of olive oil. Serve alongside yogurt and toasted pita if using; dust the yogurt with turmeric if you'd like.

Chinese chicken tenders

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:20 minutes

Ingredients

4 boneless chicken breasts
1 teaspoon soy sauce
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper

For the batter:
1/2 cup flour
1/2 cup pancake mix
1/2 cup cornstarch
1 egg
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 cup water

For the sauce:
1/3 cup sugar
1/2 cup ketchup
2 teaspoons cornstarch
2 teaspoons white vinegar
1/2 cup water
1/2 teaspoon salt

preparation

Cut chicken breast into medium strips.
Season with soy sauce, salt and pepper.
Combine flour, pancake mix, cornstarch, egg, baking powder, and water. Mix well to form a smooth batter.
Dip chicken pieces in batter, and deep fry at 350 degrees for 5 minutes or until golden brown.
To make the sauce:
In a heavy bottom medium saucepan, mix all the ingredients. Bring to a boil over medium heat, while stirring.
Cook for 2 minutes to thicken. Remove from heat. Transfer to a serving dish. Allow to cool.

Cod and potato chowder

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:40 minutes

Ingredients

3 ounces salt pork, diced
8 ounces chopped onion
1 clove minced garlic
1 bay leaf
1/4 teaspoon thyme
2 parsley stems
1/2 teaspoon saffron
1 pound diced potatoes
1 quart fish stock
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon white pepper
1 cup milk
1 1/2 pounds boneless cod
1 tablespoon parsley

preparation

In a suitable soup pot, cook the salt pork until lightly brown. Stir in the onion, garlic, bay leaf, thyme, parsley stems, and saffron. Cook over low heat for 5 minutes. Add the potatoes and fish stock. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil and simmer for 30 minutes.
A few minutes before serving, cut cod into cubes and add to soup. Simmer for 5 minutes. Add milk and parsley. Heat before serving.

Cod fritters

Serves: 5

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:30 minutes

To desalt the cod, soak for 24 hours, changing water twice

Ingredients

1 pound salt cod, desalted
4 large eggs
1/4 cup minced fresh flat leaf parsley
1 large clove garlic, minced
1 tablespoon finely chopped onion
4 tablespoons mayonnaise
pinch cayenne
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 1/2 cups dried breadcrumbs
flour for dredging
8 cups canola oil .

preparation

Bring a large pot of water to a boil and then reduce the heat so that the water is simmering. Add the salt cod and cover tightly. Turn off the heat and let the cod sit until the fish can be pulled apart with a fork but is still moist, 10 to 15 minutes.
Remove the fish from the water. When cool enough to handle, remove any bones and break up the fish.
Put the fish in a food processor and process until uniformly mashed. Add 2 of the eggs and process until well incorporated and the mixture is fluffy. Transfer the mixture to a bowl and stir in the parsley, garlic, onion, mayonnaise, cayenne, salt and pepper.
Gradually add 1/3 to 1/2 cup of the breadcrumbs and mix them in; stop adding when the mixture is stiff. Moisten your hands and shape the mixture into small disks about 2 1/2 inches wide and 1 inch thick.
In a bowl, beat the remaining 2 eggs; put the flour on one piece of waxed paper and the remaining breadcrumbs on another.
Dredge the disks in the flour, dip in the beaten egg, and roll in the breadcrumbs. Refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Heat the oil in a deep fryer or a deep stockpot to 375 degrees. Deep fry the fritters, a few at a time, until deep golden brown. Drain the fritters on paper towels.
Serve with tomato sauce, mayonnaise or tartar sauce.

Codfish cakes

Serves: 6

Preparation time:30 minutes

Cooking time:30 minutes

Ingredients

1 cup chopped onions
1 tablespoon butter
2 pounds cooked codfish
3 cups cooked potatoes, cut up (about 3 medium potatoes)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon white pepper
2 eggs
1 teaspoon prepared mustard
1 teaspoon Worcestershire
3 tablespoons parsley
1 cup seasoned bread crumbs
1/3 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons butter

preparation

Melt butter in a frying pan. Add onion and sauté for 5 minutes over low heat. Chop potatoes coarsely. Flake the cod flesh. Combine potatoes, salt and pepper, onion, eggs, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and parsley.
Add the flaked fish and blend well. Spoon the mixture onto a baking sheet and smooth it over. Chill.
Shape the mixture into 12 round cakes. Coat the cakes with breadcrumbs.
Heat half of oil and butter in a skillet, and brown the cakes on both sides about 4-5 minutes per side.

Cold broccoli soup

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:20 minutes

Ingredients

4 medium potatoes
4 medium chopped onions
1 1/2 quarts chicken stock
2 cups chopped broccoli
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper

preparation

In a soup pot, combine potatoes and onions with the stock. Simmer until the vegetables are tender.
Add the broccoli and continue cooking for 10 minutes. Puree soup in a blender.
Refrigerate for several hours until thoroughly chilled.
At serving time stir in the cream, lemon juice, salt and pepper. Garnish soup with lemon slices

Cold curried chicken

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:10 minutes

Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken breasts, cubed
2 teaspoons vegetable oil
1 medium chopped white onion
1 teaspoon curry powder
1 tablespoon tomato sauce
1 teaspoon chopped mango chutney
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup cream
1 medium papaya

preparation

Heat the oil and add the onion. Sauté and stir occasionally, until soft. Add curry powder, tomato sauce and chutney.
Mix and remove from heat. Mix in the mayonnaise. Whip the cream to soft peaks. Stir in the curry sauce. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Place the chicken pieces on a serving dish. Cover with the sauce and garnish with papaya slices.

Cold poached salmon steaks

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Cooking time:8 minutes

Ingredients

6-8 ounce salmon steaks
1 gallon court bouillon
1 cup grated cucumber
1 cup sour cream
1 teaspoon minced scallion
1 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill

preparation

Poach salmon steaks in court bouillon. Chill salmon. Remove skin and bones.
PRESENTATION
Arrange salmon on plates or platter.
To make the sauce:
Squeeze out water from the grated cucumber.
Combine with the remaining ingredients, except dill. Spoon sauce over salmon. Sprinkle with chopped dill.

Cold smoked seal loin

Serves: 12

Preparation time:30 minutes

Cooking time:8 hours

Todd Perrin is the celebrated owner and head chef of the Mallard Cottage restaurant in St. John’s Newfoundland, Canada. He was also a contestant on Top Chef Canada, where he once cooked seal.

Ingredients

8 seal loins, trimmed of all fat
For the brine:
8 litres water
2 cups apple cider
1 cup apple cider vinegar
2 cups salt
2 cups brown sugar
6 Bay leaves
Bunch fresh thyme
Combine all and bring to simmer. While brine is heating, dry roast the following dry spices:
3 TBS black peppercorns
3 TBS mustard seed
5 TBS coriander seed
3 TBS fennel seed
1 TBS dried chilies

preparation

Brine:
Combine all and bring to simmer. While brine is heating, dry roast the dry spices

Add all spices to simmering brine and continue to simmer for 1.5 hours. Cool.
Cover loins with brine in non-reactive container and leave in refrigerator approximately 12-16 hours.
Remove from brine, pat dry and leave in refrigerator for further 6 hours on drying rack, uncovered.
Cold smoke, six to eight hours. Wood of choice – I like alder.
Remove from smoker, and place in 500F oven for 5 minutes. Remove from oven and cool. Chill in refrigerator. Slice thinly and serve, carpaccio style.

Corn and black bean salad

Serves: 4

Preparation time:15 minutes

This salad can be prepared the day before heading to the cottage as it keeps very well and will hold up the length of the weekend. If planning to have a big group of guests, you can double the recipe without difficulty. For presentation, if desired, line the serving bowl with leaf lettuce before filling with salad

Ingredients

1/2 cup sheep’s milk feta
3 tbsp (45 mL) white wine vinegar
1/4 cup (50 mL) olive oil
1 tsp Dijon mustard
2 cans black beans (540 mL each), rinsed and drained
2 cups grape tomatoes, halved lengthwise
2 cups frozen corn, thawed and rinsed
1/2 cup fresh basil, coarsely chopped
1 cup red pepper, finely chopped
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

preparation

1. In a large bowl, break up feta with a fork. Whisk in vinegar, olive oil and mustard.

2. To the same bowl add black beans, grape tomatoes, corn, basil, red pepper and onion. Stir well, season to taste with salt and pepper, and serve.

Corn and jalapeno pancakes with tomato salsa

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:20 minutes

Ingredients

2 cups fresh or canned corn kernels
3 fresh jalapeno chili peppers seeded and minced
2 cloves garlic finely chopped
1 red bell pepper seeded deribbed and finely diced
6 green onions white part and 2 inches of the tender green tops thinly sliced
2 eggs
1 1/4 cups flour
1/2 cup cornmeal
1 teaspoon baking powder
salt to taste
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1 1/2 cups milk
freshly ground pepper

FOR THE TOMATO
1 1/2 cups diced tomatoes
1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
1 fresh jalapeno or serrano chili pepper seeded and minced
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
5 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
to taste salt and freshly ground pepper
1/3 cup vegetable oil
1 1/4 cups sour cream

preparation

Cook corn kernels in lightly salted water for 1 minute. Drain, transfer to large bowl and cool. Add the chili peppers, garlic, bell pepper and green onions, mix well and set aside.
In a mixing bowl, whisk the eggs, flour, cornmeal, baking powder, 1 teaspoon salt and the lime juice. Add the milk and mix well to form a smooth batter.
Add to the corn mixture and stir to mix. Season to taste with more salt if needed, and pepper. Let stand at room temperature for 30 minutes.
To make the tomato salsa, stir together the tomatoes, red onion, chili pepper, lime juice, cilantro and salt and pepper to taste.
In a large frying over medium heat, warm 2 tablespoons of the oil.
Working in batches, spoon the batter into the pan to form pancakes 3 inches in diameter; do not crowd the pan. Cook, turning once, until golden brown on both sides.
Transfer to paper towels to drain. Repeat with the remaining batter, adding oil as needed to prevent sticking.
Place the pancakes on a platter or individual plates and top with the sour cream and salsa.

Corn in coconut milk

Serves: 5

Preparation time:10 minutes

Cooking time:40 minutes

Ingredients

5 ears corn, shucked and cut into halves
2 (13.5-ounce) cans full fat coconut milk
1 cup water
1 tablespoon salted butter
6 garlic cloves, minced
Leaves from 8 stems thyme
2 culantro leaves or 4 sprigs cilantro, leaves only, finely chopped
20 chives, finely chopped
2 small habanero peppers, stems removed
1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more as needed
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

preparation

Shuck the corn.
Rinse each ear under running water and remove any straggling silk fibers that are still hanging on.

Halve the corn:
On a cutting board, use a large chef’s knife and cut the corn into halves. If the corn is small enough you can even just snap it in half using your hands.

Bring the liquids to a boil, then simmer:
In a deep and wide pot, add the coconut milk and water and bring to a rolling boil over high heat.

Add the butter, garlic, thyme, cilantro, chives, habanero, salt, and black pepper. Let it simmer for 10 minutes.

Boil the corn:
Add the corn and let it all simmer on low heat for 20 minutes. Turn the corn every 8 to 10 minutes using metal tongs or a fork. Be careful not to burst the pepper in the simmer liquid if you don’t want it spicy.

You’ll know it’s ready when the coconut milk is reduced enough that it is thick and coats the corn heavily. You don’t want it like a soup, but more so reduced with some gravy.

Serve: Once the corn is cooked remove it from the pot and serve it warm or at room temperature.
Serve coconut milk in bowls and enjoy with the corn. This can be served by itself or as a side dish.

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 1 week.

To reheat, place the corn in the same pot used to cook it and add 2 tablespoons of water. Over medium-low heat, bring to a simmer and heat for 5-10 minutes.

Corned beef and slaw sandwich

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 10 minutes

Cooking time:10 minutes

These reuben-type sandwiches are easy to make when ingredients are purchased at the supermarket deli.

Ingredients

4 slices whole wheat bread, toasted
8 teaspoons spicy brown mustard
8 ounces thinly sliced deli corned beef
1/2 pint vinaigrette-style deli coleslaw
4 (1-ounce) Swiss Cheese

preparation

Heat oven to 350°F.
Spread each slice of bread with 2 teaspoons mustard. To assemble each sandwich, layer 1 slice bread, 2 slices corned beef, 1/4 cup coleslaw and 1 slice cheese.
Place sandwiches onto ungreased baking sheet. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes or until cheese is melted.

Corned beef and swiss cheese bagels

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 10 minutes

Coleslaw from the deli simplifies this sandwich preparation.

Ingredients

1/4 cup light sour cream
3 tablespoons sweet honey mustard
4 light rye, plain or egg bagels, split
Leaf lettuce
1/4 pound thinly sliced deli corned beef
1/2 pint deli coleslaw, well drained
4 (3/4-ounce) slices Swiss Cheese
4 thin green bell pepper rings

preparation

Combine sour cream and mustard in small bowl. Spread mustard mixture onto cut-sides of bagels.
Layer bottom half of each bagel with lettuce leaf, 1/4 corned beef, 2 to 3 tablespoons coleslaw, 1 slice cheese and 1 green pepper ring.
Top each with remaining bagel half.

Crab and lobster cakes with roasted red pepper coulis and dill cream

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 25 minutes

Cooking time:40 minutes

Adapted from Canadian Living Magazine April 2003

Ingredients

1 7ounce package crabmeat
1 2 ounce lobster tail
2 eggs
2 tablespoons sour cream
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 1/4 cups fresh bread crumbs
3 tablespoons finely diced red onion
1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
1/4 teaspoon Worcestershire and hot pepper sauce
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1 tablespoon canola oil

Roasted Pepper Coulis:
1 sweet red pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, chopped
1 large clove garlic, minced
1/2 cup tomato juice
1 tablespoon white wine
2 teaspoons chopped fresh basil
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper

Dill Cream:
1/2 cup white wine
3/4 cup whipping cream
1 teaspoon butter
1 teaspoon flour
2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
pinch each salt and pepper

preparation

Place crab in sieve. Remove lobster from shell;dice and add to crab. Press out liquid and remove any visible cartilage or shell. Whisk eggs, sour cream and lemon juice until smooth. Stir in crumbs, onion, dill, Worcestershire and hot pepper sauces, salt and pepper. Mix in crab and lobster.
With damp hands, form by 1/4 cupfuls into 8 cakes, each scant 1/2 inch thick. Lightly brush large non-stick skillet with oil; place over medium heat.
Fry cakes, in batches if necessary and brushing lightly with oil if needed, until golden and crisp on both sides, about 4 minutes per side.
Roasted Pepper Coulis:
Meanwhile, grill or broil red pepper until blackened all over, about 20 minutes. Let cool. Peel, halve and seed; chop and set aside. In nonstick skillet, heat oil over medium heat; cook onion and garlic until golden, 5 minutes. Add lemon juice, wine, roasted pepper, basil, salt and pepper; bring to boil. Reduce heat; simmer for 3 minutes. Purée in blender or food processor.

Dill Cream:
In saucepan, boil wine until reduced to 1/4 cup. Pour in cream; boil for 3 minutes. Meanwhile, mash butter and flour until smooth; whisk into pan. Simmer, whisking, until smooth and slightly thickened, about 1 minute. Stir in dill, salt and pepper. Reheat coulis; pool generous 2 tablespoons each of the coulis and dill cream separately onto each warmed plate. Top with 2 crab-and-lobster cakes.

Creamed spinach with mushrooms

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:20 minutes

Ingredients

3 bunches spinach, each about 3/4 pound
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons butter
2 ounces shitake mushrooms, stemmed and chopped
2 tablespoons minced shallots
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups milk, warmed
Pinch cayenne pepper

preparation

Wash spinach thoroughly and remove any thick or blemished leaves. Put with boiling water into a large pot or wok.
Over medium heat, cook, stirring, until just wilted, about 5 minutes. Drain and gently squeeze out excess moisture. Chop, season with salt and pepper, and set aside. You should have about 3 cups.
Put butter in a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat. When foaming stops add mushrooms and shallots. Cook, covered, until both wilt, about 3 to 4 minutes. Add flour and stir a few minutes, making sure flour is fully incorporated.
Add milk and bring to a simmer, stirring with a whisk.
Season with salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes. Add spinach and cook, stirring gently until heated through.

Creamy chickpea soup with crisp tofu

Serves: 4

Preparation time:20 minutes

Cooking time:2 hours 30 minutes

Ingredients

2 bay leaves
2 cloves garlic, smashed
2 to 3 sprigs fresh thyme
1 cup dried chickpeas, sorted through and rinsed
1 tsp. kosher salt
For the soup:

3 Tbs. extra-virgin olive oil
1 yellow onion, diced
1 medium carrot, peeled and diced
1 inner rib celery, diced
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 clove garlic, minced
2 tsp. chopped fresh thyme
1/4 cup heavy cream
1 Tbs. sherry vinegar
10 oz. firm tofu, cut into 1/2-inch dice
3 Tbs. thinly sliced fresh chives

preparation

Cook the beans:
Wrap the bay leaves, garlic, and thyme in cheesecloth and tie with twine. Put the chickpeas in a large pot and cover with water by 2 inches (about 2 quarts). Add the herb bundle and the salt. Bring to a boil over high heat. Lower the heat to maintain a very gentle simmer, cover, and cook until the chickpeas are tender (try biting into one) but not splitting and falling apart, about 2 hours (check occasionally to be sure the chickpeas aren't boiling and are covered with liquid; add water if needed). Discard the herb bundle. Set aside the chickpeas and their cooking liquid.

Make the soup:
Heat 1-1/2 Tbsp. of the oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat for 30 seconds. Add the onion, carrot, and celery, season with salt, and cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and start to brown, about 7 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds, stirring. Add the chickpeas and their cooking liquid (there should be about 5 cups; if not, add more water to equal this amount) and half of the thyme. Season well with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat to a bare simmer, and cook for 30 minutes so that the chickpeas soften a little more but don’t break up. Working in batches, purée the chickpeas and broth in a blender. Return the puréed soup to the saucepan, stir in the cream, vinegar, and remaining chopped thyme, and keep warm over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching. Taste for salt, pepper, and vinegar.

Set a large skillet over medium-high heat for 1 minute. Cook the tofu in the remaining 1-1/2 Tbs. oil until it’s brown, about 5 minutes; With a slotted spoon. transfer half the tofu to a plate lined with paper towels and stir the rest into the soup.
Laddle the soup into shallow bowls. Sprinkle with the tofu, scatter with the chives, and drizzle with a bit of the reserved tofu oil, if you like. Serve immediately.

Creamy polenta with gorgonzola

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Cooking time:30 minutes

Instead of cooking the polenta in the the usual water or broth this rich polenta is cooked in a milk and cream mixture.

Ingredients

4 cups milk
1/2 cup whipping cream
1 cup polenta *
1 1/2 cups crumbled Gorgonzola cheese
1/2 cup coarsely chopped, lightly toasted walnuts

preparation

Bring milk and whipping cream to boil in heavy large saucepan over medium heat.
Reduce heat to medium-low and gradually whisk polenta into milk mixture in slow steady stream.
Cook polenta until creamy and tender, stirring frequently, about 20 minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Preheat broiler.
Transfer cooked polenta to 9-inch-diameter pie dish. Sprinkle Gorgonzola cheese over polenta.
Broil until cheese melts. Sprinkle with chopped toasted walnuts and serve immediately.

* If polenta is not available, substitute 1 cup regular yellow cornmeal, and cook mixture for about 10 minutes rather than 20 minutes.

Creative ways with quinoa

Serves: 4

Preparation time:0 minutes

Like any other cereal quinoa is one of those foods that can be delicious, or it can turn out bland and boring. Here are some tips to elevate the taste of this superfood superstar.

Ingredients

1. Cook it in vegetable broth or less liquid
2. Add herbs such as thyme, basil, or oregano.
3. Toast it in oil for a minute or two before you boil it.
4. Add tiny pieces of garlic or onion.
5. Sweeten up your quinoa by cooking it like oatmeal.
6. Add cheese.
7. Make it into quinoa pudding.
8. Use quinoa in homemade veggie burgers.
9. Use quinoa in homemade granola.
10. Add it to soup.
11. Let it soak and sprout

preparation

1. Cook it in vegetable broth.

Quinoa on its own can be very bland. If you'd like to add a bit more flavor, cook it in vegetable broth instead of water. This instantly spices up your quinoa in the easiest way possible. also, using less liquid makes the cooked quinoa less mushy. The directions say to make it with one part quinoa, two parts water (so, one cup of quinoa and two cups of water).
2. Add herbs such as thyme, basil, or oregano.
Another way to easily and quickly make quinoa taste better without adding other foods is to add herbs and spices such as thyme, salt, and pepper, but you can add whatever you want — basil, oregano, or some red pepper.

3. Toast it in oil for a minute or two before you boil it.
Add a tablespoon (or more) of olive oil to the pot on medium heat, then add the quinoa. Let it toast until the quinoa browns but doesn't burn (usually about two to three minutes), then add water
4. Add tiny pieces of garlic or onion.
Roast or saute minced garlic, and then add it to your quinoa once it's finished. You could also saute some chopped up onions if you're into that kind of flavor as well.

5. Sweeten up your quinoa by cooking it like oatmeal.
Sweet quinoa for breakfast?
It might be better. How to Make a Quinoa Breakfast Bowl

To make the base of this recipe, cook quinoa in almond milk with a cinnamon stick. It’s this simple: Almond Breeze + quinoa + whole cinnamon sticks You could also get creative with your spices. Nutmeg, cardamom, and/or vanilla bean would all be welcome here. Use the recipe as a base, then add whatever fruit and toppings you want.
This may be a substitute for oatmeal.

6. Add cheese.
Adding cheese to quinoa is a way to improve the taste of quinoa. This creamy caprese quinoa bake is the perfect way to add cheese, and make your quinoa so good After eating this, you'll alter your view about quinoa.

7. Mix quinoa in Mediterranean dishes.

When most people think of quinoa, they think of it as a boring, healthy side dish with some veggies. But you can do a lot more with it than you think. This recipe
Mediterranean quinoa with spinach garlic roasted chickpeas red pepper sauce mixes quinoa with mediterranean products to create an good dish.
8 . Use quinoa in homemade veggie burgers.
Making your own veggie burgers isn't as hard as you might think, especially when you have an ingredient like quinoa, which is hearty and holds things together.
9. Use quinoa in homemade granola.
Quinoa makes for great breakfast food. Try this granola recipe from Naturally Ella .It's baked with almonds and maple syrup for a sweet, crunchy finish that is perfect on top of yogurt.
10. Add it to soup.
Quinoa is a favorite grain to add to soups. It's filling and makes soups more hearty without taking over when you're eating a soup. Try this Quinoa with white beans tomatoes and basil can be made in a slow cooker.
11. Let it soak and sprout.
Sprouting quinoa? let it sit in water overnight until it forms little sprouts.
According to Making Thyme For Health, this helps reduce the amount of "phytic acid (or phytates) which is thought to block the absorption of important minerals as well as reduce the digestibility of starches, protein, and fat."

Crispy chicken nuggets

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Cooking time:20 minutes

Ingredients

1 pound boneless chicken breast
1 tablespoon white wine worcestershire
2 minced garlic cloves
4 drops hot sauce
salt and white pepper to taste
1/2 cup cornstarch
1/2 cup ketchup
1/2 cup apricot jam
2 drops hot sauce
1/2 gallon vegetable oil

preparation

Rinse chicken breast, pat dry, and cut into 1 inch nuggets. Place cubes in medium sized bowl; stir in one half of the wine Worcestershire sauce and garlic. Add hot sauce, salt and pepper.
Dredge chicken nuggets in cornstarch, shaking to remove excess. In large skillet or deep fryer, heat oil to 350 degrees.
Fry nuggets, a few at a time, 4 to 6 minutes or until golden brown. Drain on absorbent paper.
To prepare dipping sauce:
In a small bowl, combine ketchup, apricot jam, remaining wine, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce. Serve chicken nuggets with sauce.

Croatian soparnik

Serves: 6

Preparation time:1 hour 20 minutes

Cooking time:20 minutes

Soparnik is known as a Croatian version of pizza, although it’s more like a pie, with dough on the top and bottom. It’s traditionally filled with swiss chard.

Ingredients

300 g plain flour (about 2 cups, plus more for dusting)
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ tsp Salt
¼ tsp Black pepper
2/3 cup (150ml water)

For the filling:
Large handful Swiss chard
1 onion finely diced
3 cloves garlic minced
4 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt
Black pepper
Extra virgin olive oil optional, to serve

preparation

1. Add the plain flour, olive oil and salt and pepper to a large mixing bowl. Gradually adding the water, knead the mixture with clean hands until it comes together into a dough. The dough should be moist but not overly sticky, so you may not need all of the water (or you may need to adjust the water).
2. Continue to knead for a few more minutes, until the dough is fairly elastic. Place the ball of dough into a lightly oiled bowl, and cover. Allow to rest for 1 hour.
3. While the dough is resting, prepare the filling. Remove any tough stems from the Swiss chard, and chop the leaves and stems. Add the finely diced onion, garlic and parsley, along with a tablespoon of olive oil and a touch more salt and pepper. Mix well, and set aside.
4. When the dough has rested, transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Divide the mixture in two equal pieces, and roll the first section out to your desired size (the thinner the better).
5. Transfer the rolled-out dough to a sheet of baking paper, and add the filling, making sure it's spread out evenly to the edges of the dough.
6. Roll out the second piece of dough in the same size, and place it over the filling.
7. Using a rolling pin, press the two layers of dough together over the filling, pressing out as much air as possible and tightly sealing the edges. Make a few small holes in the top of the pie with a fork.
8. Bake at 190°C (Gas Mark 5 / 375°F) for around 20 minutes, until lightly browned. Cut into diamonds with a pizza cutter, and serve warm, drizzled with extra virgin olive oil if desired.

Croque Monsieur sandwich

Serves: 4

Preparation time:10 minutes

Cooking time:15 minutes

Béchamel: Save on prep time by making the white sauce ahead of time.

Croque Madame: To make this into a Croque Madame sandwich, make the recipe as instructed, then fry eggs (one for each sandwich, sunny-side up) in a separate skillet while the sandwiches toast in the oven. Place an egg on top each sandwiches.

Ingredients

¼ cup unsalted butter (½ stick)
¼ cup all-purpose flour
1½ cups whole milk
salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
dash of ground nutmeg
Sandwich:
8 thin slices white sandwich breads
5 ounces good quality ham about 8 slices
6 ounces Gruyere cheese ,or Emmental cheese, grated (about 2½ cups)
1/4 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese

preparation

Béchamel sauce:
1. Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook, stirring constantly, for about 3 minutes. Gradually add milk, stirring well until the mixture is smooth. Cook, stirring, until sauce is thickened.
2. Season with a little bit of salt and pepper. Remove from heat and whisk in mustard and nutmeg. Set aside while you make the sandwiches, or make the sauce up to 1 week in advance.
Assemble sandwiches:
1. Preheat oven to 425° F. Line a baking tray with parchement paper and set aside.
2. Spread each bread slice with a layer of béchamel, spreading it all the way to the edges. Place 4 slices of bread, béchamel side up, on prepared baking sheet.
3. Top each with a piece of ham, a handful of gruyere, and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese. Place remaining slices of bread on top, béchamel side up, then top with remaining gruyere and parmesan cheese.
4. Bake at 425 degrees F for about 5-6 minutes, until cheese is melted, and then turn the oven to broil and broil until the cheese on top is lightly golden, 2-4 minutes.

Curried mussel salad with tiny pasta

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:20 minutes

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups tiny shell pasta
4 quarts steamed mussels
10 ounces frozen tiny peas, thawed
1/2 cup chopped parsley

For the curried French dressing:

2 teaspoons olive oil
2 teaspoons wine vinegar
1 teaspoon minced green onions
1/2 teaspoon curry powder
1/2 teaspoon salt

For the curried mayonnaise dressing:

1/3 cup mayonnaise
2 teaspoons curry powder
1/2 teaspoon salt

preparation

Cook the pasta until al dente. Drain, rinse with cold water and drain again. Toss with 2 tablespoons of the curried French dressing. Clean and cook the mussels.
Cool and discard the shells and any black rims.
In a salad bowl toss with 1/4 cup of the Curried French dressing. Pour boiling water over the peas and drain.
In the salad bowl combine the pasta with the peas and mussels and remaining French dressing.
Mix the Curried Mayonnaise dressing ingredients and carefully fold into the salad ingredients.
Chill at least 2 hours and sprinkle with the chopped parsley before serving.

Curried quinoa with chickpeas

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 10 minutes

Cooking time:15 minutes

Ingredients

2 1/2 cups vegetable stock
1 1/2 cups quinoa
1 teaspoon canola oil
3 cups chopped plum tomatoes
2 teaspoons curry powder
2 teaspoons minced garlic
1-19 ounce can chick-peas drained and rinsed
3/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or coriander
1/2 cup chopped green onions
salt and pepper

preparation

Bring 2 cups of the stock to boil.
Stir in quinoa, cover and remove from heat; let stand for 5 minutes. In large nonstick saucepan over medium high heat, heat oil. Stir in tomatoes, stock, curry powder and garlic. Cook, stirring, until tomatoes begin to break up.
Stir in chick-peas; cook until heated through. Combine Quinoa, chick-pea mixture, parsley and green onions.
Season to taste with salt and pepper. Serve immediately.

Deep-fried cod patties

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:30 minutes

Ingredients

1 pound salted cod
1 pound mashed potatoes
1 tablespoon parsley
1 teaspoon dry mustard
1/4 teaspoon white pepper
2 beaten eggs

preparation

Soak the cod in cold water for 12 hours. Drain and poach, starting with fresh cold water. Simmer for 15 minutes or until fish becomes flaky. Drain and flake the fish. Combine with the remaining ingredients.
Shape into patties, allowing two per person.
Deep fry at 375 F (190 C) until brown. Arrange on a serving platter and serve hot.
Note: use any leftover fresh or salted codfish for this recipe. Serve with a sauce.

Dilled pasta salad

Serves: 8

Preparation time: 8 minutes

Cooking time:12 minutes

Ingredients

1 pound ziti or macaronis
1 large cucumbers
1 1/2 cups olive oil
2/3 cup dry white wine
1/2 cup white wine vinegar
1/2 chopped fresh dill
1/2 teaspoon salt

preparation

Cook pasta according to directions on package. Drain pasta. Cool under cold running water.
Peel cucumbers. Cut in half lengthwise. Remove seeds. Cut into 1/4 inch slices. Toss cucumbers with olive oil, wine, white wine vinegar, dill, and salt. Let stand for 30 minutes. Add cucumbers and marinade to drained pasta. Toss until well coated.
Garnish with sprigs of fresh dill.

Eggplant and pepper tian on fried eggplant

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 40 minutes

Cooking time:15 minutes

Ingredients

4 cups small dice eggplant, lightly salted to release excess water and bitterness
2 cups diced red pepper
2 cups diced yellow pepper
1/2 cup diced apple-wood smoked bacon
5 garlic cloves, crushed
2 teaspoons basil cut into fine strips
2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon fresh thyme
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Fried Eggplant, recipe below

preparation

Preheat the oven to 300 degrees F. Place 1/2-teaspoon extra virgin olive oil in a saute pan and add garlic cloves and bacon. Cook until bacon is slightly crisp. Blot the salted eggplant with paper towels to dry slightly. Discard 1/2 of the fat and add the eggplant. Cook until tender, season with fresh thyme, salt, and pepper. Drain and remove garlic.
In 2 separate saute pans add the remaining extra virgin olive oil and gently saute the red and yellow peppers until tender. Season with salt, pepper, and basil. Drain.
Form the tians by placing a layer of eggplant in a ring mold and packing it down gently. Next, add a layer of red peppers, then eggplant, finishing up with yellow peppers. Pack everything down gently.
Place in oven to warm. Unmold on a platter and serve with fried eggplant.
Fried Eggplant:
1 Japanese eggplant Salt, to purge the eggplant
1 cup buttermilk
1 cup flour, seasoned with salt and freshly ground black pepper

Slice the neck of a Japanese eggplant thin on an electric slicer. It should be the thickness of a potato chip. Lay the slices out flat and sprinkle with salt and let stand for three hours.
Preheat a fryer to 300 degrees F. Blot eggplant slices dry with paper towels. Dip the slices in buttermilk, then in seasoned flour, and fry until crisp. Drain.

Eggplant and tomato terrine

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 1 hour

Cooking time:20 minutes

Ingredients

1/2 cup olive oil
2 large unpeeled eggplants
4 large tomatoes, peeled
1 teaspoon unflavored gelatin
1 teaspoon cold water
1/3 cup tomato juice
1 teaspoon tomato paste
to taste salt and pepper
1 recipe herb vinaigrette

Herb vinaigrette:
1 cup olive oil
1/4 cup white wine vinegar
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
2 teaspoons chopped fresh cilantro
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
salt and pepper to taste

preparation

Slice eggplants lengthwise about 1/2 inch thick. Heat 2 teaspoons of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add single layer of eggplant to skillet and cook until softened, 3 to 4 minutes per side.
Remove from skillet and drain on paper towels. Repeat with remaining eggplant slices adding oil as necessary.
Core tomatoes. Cut into quarters through stem end. Scrape out seeds and veins.
Flatten each piece by pressing gently with flat side of knife. Sprinkle gelatin over water in small bowl.
Heat tomato juice in a saucepan. Stir in gelatin and tomato paste and stir to dissolve. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat.
Line a 3 by 7 inch terrine or loaf pan with wax paper, leaving 3-inch overhang. Line the bottom and sides of prepared terrine with slightly overlapping eggplant slices, leaving 2-inch overhang. Dip tomato pieces in tomato-gelatin juice.
Cover eggplant with single layer of tomato. Cover with single layer of eggplant. Continue layering tomatoes and eggplant, ending with eggplant. Fold in eggplant overhang. Fold in wax paper overhang.
Top with weight. Refrigerate at least 2 hours. Just before serving, unmold terrine on a cutting board.
Cut into 1/2-inch thick slices. Arrange on cold plates.
Serve with herb vinaigrette.

Herb vinaigrette:
Mix ingredients in a blender until smooth.

Eggplant and tomato with chevre

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 25 minutes

Cooking time:40 minutes

Ingredients

1 small eggplant (3/4 lb)
2 teaspoons coarse salt
1/4 cup olive oil
1 large red onion, thinly sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon hot pepper flakes
salt and pepper
3 tomatoes, thickly sliced
1 tablespoon fresh snipped chives or green onion tops
2 ounces creamy chevre
1/4 cup whipping cream

preparation

Trim eggplant; peel if desired. Cut crosswise into 1/4-in slices. Sprinkle slices with coarse salt; place in colander to drain for 30 minutes.
Rinse eggplant well under cool running eater; pat dry and set aside.
In skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of the oil over medium high heat; cook onion, garlic and hot pepper flakes, stirring often, 3 to 5 minutes or until onion is softened. Spoon half of onion mixture into greased 13-by-9-in baking dish. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
Overlap slices of eggplant and tomato over onion mixture finishing with remaining onion mixture. sprinkle with chives and drizzle 2 tablespoons oil over top.
Cover with a piece of waxed or parchment paper cut to fit the dish, and applied directly to surface; bake in 400F oven 10 minutes. Remove paper; drizzle with remaining oil.
Replace paper; bake 20 minutes longer, basting occasionally with juices that collect in baking dish, until eggplant is tender.
Remove dish from oven; let stand 1 to 2 hours for flavors to develop.
About 10 minutes before serving, heat broiler and remove paper from baking dish.
In small bowl, combine goat cheese and cream until smooth. Dot teaspoonfuls of the mixture evenly over top of eggplant dish.
Broil about 2 minutes or until cheese is melted and lightly browned. Serve at once or at room temperature.

Eggplant caviar molds

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Cooking time:30 minutes

Ingredients

2 medium eggplants
2 teaspoons lemon juice
1 medium sliced onion
5 medium garlic cloves, sliced
1 teaspoon olive oil
to taste salt and pepper
Tabasco jalapeño
Aromat seasoning
1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
1 envelop unflavored gelatin
1/4 cup cold water
1 cup roasted red pepper coulis (see recipe below)

preparation

Peel eggplants. Cut into halves lengthwise. Slice across and sprinkle with lemon juice.
In a microwavable dish, combine eggplants, onion, garlic and olive oil. Microwave on high for 6 to 8 minutes or until eggplants are tender. Season with salt and pepper, Tabasco jalapeño and Aromat seasoning. Mix in the basil. Dissolve gelatin in water. Let set for 5 min. Melt over low heat, and stir into the warm eggplant mixture.
Spoon mixture in small ramekin dishes or molds. Refrigerate until set. Unmold on cold plate. Serve with cold tomato coulis or red red pepper coulis.

ROASTED PEPPER COULIS
Makes about 1 cup

2 red bell peppers
3 teaspoons olive oil
1 teaspoon white wine vinegar
coarse salt and pepper to taste

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Rub peppers with 2 teaspoons olive oil. Place them on a baking sheet and roast for 25 minutes or until almost charred. Remove and place in plastic container with a lid to steam and cool.
When cool enough to handle, push off the skins and remove stems and seeds. Place peppers in food processor fitted with metal blade and puree along with the vinegar, 1 teaspoon olive oil and 3 teaspoons water.
Season to taste.

Eggplant meatballs in marinara

Serves: 4

Preparation time:15 minutes

Cooking time:40 minutes

Eggplant Meatballs in Marinara Sauce is actually a meat-free recipe that is vegetarian and Vital wheat gluten is the principal ingredient in seitan. It is what gives it the meaty, chewy texture and great for replicating all kinds of meat dishes.

Ingredients

1 large purple eggplant about 1 lb
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 cups marinara sauce
1/2 cup (100 grams) cooked white beans
5 cloves of garlic, minced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1/2 cup (130 grams) vital wheat gluten
4 tablespoons nutritional yeast
1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1/2 cup (120 ml) vegetable stock

preparation

1. Wash and cut eggplant into 2-inch cubes. Heat olive oil in a frying pan. Add eggplant and cook over low heat until tender while stirring occasionally.
2. Meanwhile add marinara to a pan and heat over low heat until simmering.

In a large bowl add bean, garlic, soy, Parmesan cheese, vital wheat gluten, nutritional yeast, herbs, and mashed eggplant and vegetable stock. Mix to combine then use your hands to mash the mixture together into a dough.
3. Shape mixture into 2-inch size balls. Packing the mixture tightly together.
4. Place them on a lightly greased or paper-lined pan
5. and bake for 20 minutes, flipping them over at 10 minutes. You can eat them still warm from the oven or you can let them cool and reheat them in the sauce later. Letting them cool helps them firm up to a more meaty texture.
6. Transfer meatballs to simmering marinara sauce.
7. Continue until all meatballs are added to marinara sauce and toss to coat, cooking until heated through completely about 10 minutes.
8. Serve topped with additional Parmesan cheese and basil.

Eggplant papeton

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 30 minutes

Cooking time:30 minutes

Papeton is a flan made with eggplant. The Provence specialty originated from Avignon.

Ingredients

2 medium eggplants
2 medium shallots, chopped
2 ounces olive oil
1 ounce butter
3 eggs, beaten
1/2 cup light cream
1 teaspoon cornstarch
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper
1/4 teaspoon Aromat seasoning
1 cup light tomato sauce .

preparation

Preheat oven at 350 degrees.
Peel eggplants. Cut into squares. Remove seeds.
Sauté shallots in oil and butter. Add eggplants. Cook for 10 minutes stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Puree mixture in food processor. Beat in eggs, cream, and cornstarch. Season well.
Pour into buttered oven proof individual dishes. Bake until mixture is firm.
Unmold on plates and serve with hot tomato sauce or marinara sauce

Empanadas

Serves: 8

Preparation time:40 minutes

Cooking time:35 minutes

The origins of the empanada are not entirely clear, but it seems most likely that they first appeared in Argentina in the kitchens of immigrants from northern Spain, where the dish’s forebear was a larger, double-crusted pie cut into slices.
Once in South America, the empanada — meaning bread-wrapped — continued to evolve from a pie made with dough to individual pockets of pastry crust, often made with animal fat in beef-loving Argentina. The hand-held pies were baked or fried after being filled with whatever was available in the region at the time.

Unbaked empanadas can be made 3 months ahead and kept frozen

Ingredients

2 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, divide
1 lb. ground beef (25% fat)
1 medium onion, chopped
1 small red bell peppers, seeded, chopped
Salt, freshly ground pepper
1 Tbsp. ground cumin
1 Tbsp. sweet paprika
1/2 Tbsp. dried oregano
1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper
3/4 cups low-sodium vegetable stock
1 tsp. sugar
½ cup raisins
1 recipe PIE CRUST (Recipe included)
½ cup pitted green olives (Picholine or Spanish), rinsed well, cut in half lengthwise, divided

preparation

Heat 1 Tbsp. oil in a large pot over high. Cook ground beef, breaking up with a spoon, until browned but not completely cooked through, 6–8 minutes. Transfer to a medium bowl with a slotted spoon, leaving as much fat in pan as possible.
Reduce heat to medium and cook onions, chopped, red bell peppers, seeded, chopped, and remaining 1 Tbsp. oil, stirring, until tender but not browned, 6–8 minutes; season with salt and black pepper. Add ground cumin, sweet paprika, dried oregano, and cayenne pepper and cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add low-sodium chicken stock or broth and reserved beef along with any accumulated juices to pot. Stir in sugar, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook, stirring and scraping up any brown bits, until most of the liquid is evaporated, 15–20 minutes; taste and season with salt and black pepper, if needed. Stir in raisins. Transfer to a medium bowl, cover, and chill at least 3 hours.
Preheat oven to 375°.
Roll the pie crust to 1/4-inch thickness. Cut dough into 5-inch circles. Place 2 Tbsp. filling in the center of each round.
Top with 2 olive halves. Brush water around half of outer edge of each round. Pinch edges to seal.
Using a fork, crimp edges. Transfer empanada to a parchment-lined sheet tray, spacing 1" apart. Repeat with remaining rounds.
Bake empanadas until golden brown and slightly darker around the edges, 25–35 minutes.

Pie crust:

1 pound (3 1/4 cups) all purpose flour
1/2 pound (11/2 cups) shortening
1 teaspoon light brown sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon white vinegar
1 beaten egg
4 tablespoons cold water
In a large bowl, mix together flour, and shortening.
In a small bowl, combine the sugar, salt, vinegar, egg, and water.
Blend all ingredients to form a ball. Add more water if necessary.
Chill dough and use as needed.

Esquites corn salad with white beans and avocado

Serves: 4

Preparation time:20 minutes

Cooking time:12 minutes

The recipe is derived from the grilled Mexican corn esquites

Ingredients

1 small red onion, thinly sliced
2 large small jalapeño peppers, thinly sliced
1/3 cup (75-80 mL) lime juice, plus 1 extra lime for finishing
4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
Kosher salt to taste
black pepper to taste
6 ears of corn or 2 cups corn kernels
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1 pint cherry tomatoes, sliced in half or quarters
1 (15-ounce/440g) can of cannellini beans drained and rinsed
2 medium ripe avocados, diced
3 tablespoons fresh basil leaves, slivered

preparation

In a large bowl, mix together the thinly sliced red onions, thinly sliced jalapeños, 1/3 cup lime juice, and 3 tablespoons of the extra virgin olive oil. Season with salt and black pepper and marinate the mixture for 30 minutes or more.

Shave the corn kernels from the cobs.
Heat a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat with the remaining 1 1/2 tablespoons of the extra virgin olive oil. Add the corn kernels. Cook the corn for 3-5 minutes until charred in spots while tossing them.Add the paprika during the cooking and toss to combine.

Add the charred corn to the bowl with the marinated onions and jalapeños. Add the sliced cherry tomatoes and drained beans. Season to taste with salt and pepper and the juice from the extra lime, toss to combine and taste to adjust the seasonings if required.
Add the basil and toss to combine. If serving the salad immediately, dice the avocado and mix gently to combine.

Fall greens with walnuts feta and walnut vinaigrette

Serves: 8

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

2 heads radicchio, washed, dried and separated into leaves
2 large Belgian endives, washed, root end cut off separated into leaves
1 bunch watercress, stems trimmed, washed and dried
3 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
1/2 cup walnut halves, lightly toasted

For dressing:
1 tespoon Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup walnut oil
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

preparation

Toss radicchio, endive and watercress in a large salad bowl.
Top with crumbled feta cheese and sprinkle with walnuts.
Beat together the dressing ingredients.
Just before serving, toss salad with the dressing

Fast focaccia

Serves: 6

Preparation time:2 hours 30 minutes

Cooking time:25 minutes

This Fast, No-Knead Focaccia Is a Gateway Into the World of Baking Bread

Ingredients

1/2 cups plus 2 tablespoons lukewarm water
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1 1/2 teaspoons (8 grams) dried instant yeast
2 1/4 teaspoons (16 grams) kosher salt
1 tablespoon (11 grams) sugar
3 3/4 cups (18 ounces; 511 grams) unbleached all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
1 teaspoon finely chopped rosemary
Coarse or flaky salt, for sprinkling

preparation

Use a wooden spoon or sturdy spatula to stir together the water, half the oil, the yeast, kosher salt, sugar and flour in a large (five- or six-quart) bowl, forming a rough dough. Transfer to a container with a lid; partially cover and let it rest for about two hours on the counter. (Alternately, if you have a lidded container large enough for mixing, you can assemble the dough in there.) The dough can then be used right away, but it is much easier to handle once it has been thoroughly chilled. The dough can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Place a baking stone on the middle oven rack; preheat the oven to 425 degrees. Pour the remaining oil into a 9-inch cake pan and evenly coat the bottom of the pan.
Dust the surface of the refrigerated dough lightly with flour, then pull half of it off (it will be about a 1-pound portion; the dusting makes this task easier, as the dough is sticky). Dust the half you are using with more flour and quickly shape it into a ball by stretching the surface of the dough around to the bottom on all four sides, rotating the ball a quarter-turn as you go.
Use your hands to flatten it into a half-inch-thick round six to seven inches in diameter. Place the dough top-side-down in the cake pan, moving it around a bit to coat it with the oil. It will not fill to the edges of the pan. Turn the dough over, cover the pan with plastic wrap, and let the dough rest for 10 to 15 minutes.
Use your hands to gently push the dough to the edges of the cake pan. Sprinkle with the rosemary and coarse or flaky salt, as needed.
Cover with plastic wrap, and allow the dough to rest and rise for 20 minutes.
Place the cake pan on the heated baking stone in the oven. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the focaccia crust is medium brown and feels dry and firm on the surface. The baking time will vary, depending on the focaccia’s thickness.
Use a rounded knife to loosen the loaf from the edges of the pan, then transfer the focaccia to a cutting board. Cut into wedges and serve warm, or allow to cool completely.

Fettuccini primavera and pesto dressing

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 30 minutes

Cooking time:15 minutes

Ingredients

12 ounces fettuccini
1 teaspoons olive oil
2 large tomatoes
1 bunch broccoli
3 ounces pitted black olives
1/2 cup chopped walnuts

PESTO DRESSING
2 cups fresh basil
2/3 cup olive oil
2 cloves garlic
1/4 cup grated parmesan
1/4 cup chopped walnuts
1/4 cup red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground pepper

preparation

Cook pasta in large pot of boiling salted water until tender but still firm to bite.
Drain pasta, rinse in cold water and drain thoroughly. Place in a large bowl.
Mix with olive oil. Seed tomatoes and chop coarsely.
Slice peeled broccoli stems 1/4 inch thick and break florets into smaller pieces. Cook 3 minutes in boiling water. Drain, rinse in cold water and drain again.
Add tomatoes, broccoli, olives and walnuts to the pasta and toss gently.

Serve with pesto dressing

PESTO DRESSING
In a blender or food processor, chop the basil, garlic, walnuts, Parmesan cheese and vinegar.
Add the olive oil in a slow stream until it is all combined. Stir in salt and pepper.

Fiddlehead soufflé

Serves: 8

Preparation time: 30 minutes

Cooking time:40 minutes

Ingredients

3 tablespoons butter
3 tablespoons flour
2 cups milk
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon white pepper
5 eggs
1 cup Swiss cheese, grated
1 cup cheddar cheese, grated
2 cups fiddleheads, cooked and chopped
1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
1 ounce butter
1 ounce flour

preparation

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
In a heavy saucepan, melt butter. Stir in the flour, then add the milk. Cook while whisking until sauce becomes thick. Season with salt and pepper.
Separate the eggs. Mix the yolks and cheeses in the thick cream sauce. Fold in the fiddleheads.
Whip the egg whites and cream of tartar until firm. Gently fold in the cheese-fiddlehead mixture.
Butter 2 7-inch soufflé molds. Coat with flour. Shake any excess out. Pour souffle mixture into molds. They should be 3/4 full.
Bake 30 to 40 minutes.
You may serve this souffle with cheddar cheese sauce.

Fiddlehead with white bean and shrimp salad

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Cooking time:8 minutes

Ingredients

1 pound cooked shrimp,shelled and deveined
1 15-ounce can white beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup fiddleheads, trimmed and cleaned
1 cup diced red onion
3 tablespoons rice wine vinegar
salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons chopped parsley
French bread

preparation

In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add fiddleheads and blanch until tender.
Combine all ingredients except parsley in a medium-size bowl. Refrigerate for 1 hour.
Toss in the parsley.
Serve with crusty French bread.

Fiddleheads and black olive salad

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 10 minutes

Cooking time:10 minutes

Ingredients

2 cups fiddleheads, trimmed and cleaned
1/4 cup black olives, pitted and sliced
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon olive oil
salt to taste
1 tablespoon chives, chopped

preparation

Cook the fiddleheads in salted boiling water until tender. Drain. Toss the hot ferns with the olives, lemon juice, olive oil and salt.
Let cool. Sprinkle with chives and serve.

fidleheads with asparagus and new potatoes

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 30 minutes

Cooking time:40 minutes

Ingredients

12 small red potatoes
Herb steaming liquid ( recipe below)
2 cups trimmed and cleaned fiddleheads
16 asparagus spears, ends snapped off
salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
4 tablespoons Italian parsley, chopped

HERB STEAMING LIQUID

2 cups Chardonnay
1/2 cup water
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
2 teaspoons dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon black peppercorns
1 lemon, thinly sliced

preparation

Place the potatoes in a steamer, cover and steam over herb steaming liquid until tender, about 30 minutes. Add the fiddleheads and steam for 5 to 8 minutes.
Add the asparagus and steam until the fiddleheads and asparagus are crisp-tender, about 4 minutes more.
Divide the vegetables among four plates. Season with salt and pepper, sprinkle with parsley and serve immediately.

HERB STEAMING LIQUID

Combine the wine, water, bay leaf, rosemary, thyme, peppercorns and lemon in the bottom of the desired steaming equipment.
Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 1 minute.
Begin steaming. Add boiling water if too much of the liquid evaporates before cooking is complete.
Yield: About three and one-half cups.

Figs and goat cheese pizza

Serves: 2

Preparation time: 30 minutes

Cooking time:15 minutes

Sweet figs balance sharp goat's cheese, tender golden onions in this pizza

Ingredients

For the dough:
2.5g (¾ tsp) active dried yeast
125g (4½oz) plain flour, plus more for dusting
125g (4½oz) bread flour
1 tsp olive oil

For the topping:
1 tbsp olive oil
2 cups onion, halved and very finely sliced
4-5 medium figs, halved
2 cups peeled choppe dtomatoes
1/2 cup black olives pitted
125g (4½oz) goat’s cheese, broken into chunks
a little extra-virgin olive oil for drizzling

preparation

First make the dough. Have 175ml (6fl oz) lukewarm water ready. Put the yeast into a couple of tablespoons of the warm water in a small bowl and add a tablespoon of the flour. Stir together, then leave somewhere warm to “sponge” for 20 minutes or so
Put both types of flour into a large mixing-bowl and make a well in the centre. Pour on the sponged yeast, ¼ tsp salt, the oil and remaining water and gradually mix all the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients to form a dough (it will be quite wet). Knead for 10 minutes until satiny and elastic, then put in a clean bowl, cover with a cloth and leave somewhere warm for 2½ hours. It should double in size. (If you are using bought fresh dough put it somewhere warm for 30 minutes before using.)

Boil the sliced onions until tender. Drain
Heat the oil in a saucepan and add the onions. Fry over a medium heat for about ten minutes until golden. Add tomatoes and continue cooking until moisture is all evaporated. Season with salt and pepper Set aside.
Half an hour before you want to cook the pizza, preheat the oven to 230°C/450°F/gas mark 8 – it really needs to be as hot as you can get it. Place a baking-sheet or pizza stone into the oven to heat.
Turn out the dough on to a lightly floured surface and knead it a little, then roll it into a circle or a rough square, depending on whether you are using a pizza stone or a baking-sheet. It should be about 30-32cm (11¾-12½in) across.
Carefully take the hot baking-sheet or stone out of the oven and flour it. Put the pizza dough on to it and, working quickly, top with the onions tomato mixture and the halved figs and olives, leaving a 3cm (1-inch) rim all the way around the pizza. Spoon a little balsamic vinegar on top of each fig half and sprinkle a bit of sugar on each as well. Dot the chunks of goat’s cheese among the figs. Drizzle the goat’s cheese with a little olive oil. Grind some pepper over the top. Bake in the hot oven for 15 minutes. The pizza should be golden and the figs slightly caramelised in patches.
Serve immediately. A rocket, (arugala), spinach or watercress salad is good on the side.

Fillets of sole dieppoise

Serves: 6

Preparation time:20 minutes

Cooking time:30 minutes

Ingredients

4 ounces butter
1 tablespoon chopped shallots
12 2-ounces fillets of sole
1/2 cup wine
2 cups fish fumet
4 ounces cooked mussels
4 ounces cooked shrimp
6 medium fluted mushrooms
1 cup velouté sauce
1/4 cup heavy cream
12 fleurons

preparation

Butter a baking dish. Sprinkle with chopped shallots.
Fold the fillets in half and arrange in the pan. Pour over the wine, fish fumet, and the mussel cooking juice.
Cover with parchment paper and bring to a boil on top of the stove. Bake at 350 degrees .F (180 C) for about 5 to 8 minutes.
Arrange the fish fillets on a serving platter.
Garnish with the mussels, shrimp, and fluted mushrooms.
Prepare the velouté sauce with the cooking liquid and fish stock.
Stir in the cream and simmer for 10 minutes or until sauce is medium thick. Pour over the fish. Garnish with fleurons and serve hot.

Finnish salmon soup

Serves: 6

Preparation time:15 minutes

Cooking time:20 minutes

The Finnish soup is known as lohikeitto.

Ingredients

3 tbsp butter
2 cups thinly leek (only white/lighter part)
1 medium carrot, diced
3 medium potatoes, diced
5 cups fish stock
1 lb salmon fillet, skinned and boned, cut into cubes
3/4 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup dill, chopped
salt and pepper to taste

preparation

Melt the butter in a medium soup pot.
Add thinly sliced leek. Cook until slightly soft.
Add carrot and potatoes. Mix.
Add fish stock. Cover pot with a lid, adjust heat to medium-high, and bring to
a boil.
Adjust heat back to medium-low and simmer soup until vegetables are almost
cooked.
Add salmon cubes and heavy cream. Mix to combine.
Turn the heat back to medium. Cover with a lid and continue cooking for 4 to
5 minutes.
Season by adding salt and pepper. Mix.
Add dill and turn heat off.
Cover with a lid and keep covered for 2 minutes.
Transfer to individual soup plates.
Garnish the soup with more freshly chopped dills, if desired.
Serve hot.

Fish and chips

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 30 minutes

Cooking time:20 minutes

Ingredients

2 pounds boned and skinned cod
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 recipe batter for fish (recipe below)
2 pounds baking potatoes
6 lemon wedges
oil for frying

BATTER FOR FISH

1/2 cup flour
1/2 cup pancake flour
1/2 cup cornstarch
2 tablespoons baking powder
1 egg
1 cup water

preparation

Cod can be substituted with other white firm skinless, and boneless fish.
Cut fish into 5 oz. (140 g) pieces. Wash under cold water and dry. Season with salt. Coat in the cold batter.
Deep fry at 360 F. (190 C) for 4 to 5 minutes. Arrange on a warm dish lined with a napkin.
Serve with chips and lemon pieces, or the traditional malt vinegar.
(The chips are actually large French fried potatoes, made with the baking potatoes, and deep fried.

BATTER FOR FISH

In a large mixing bowl, combine all dry ingredients. Beat egg and water. Blend in dry ingredients until smooth.

Fougasse bread

Serves: 10

Preparation time:30 minutes

Cooking time:25 minutes

Fougasse is a French flatbread that is similar to Italian focaccia. Add some herbs de Provence, (Rosemary and thyme) to bring more flavor to the bread

Ingredients

For the Yeast starter::

1/2 cup warm water
1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
1 cup all-purpose flour

For the Dough:

1/2 cup warm water
1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
1 teaspoon finely chopped rosemary
1 teaspoon finely chopped thyme
1/2 teaspoon coarse salt

For the Garnish:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon coarse salt
1 teaspoon finely chopped rosemary
1 teaspoon finely chopped thyme

preparation

For the Preferment starter:

Pour the warm water into a medium bowl and whisk in the yeast. Let the mixture stand for 10 minutes.
Stir in the flour until the mixture is smooth and slightly elastic. It will be a little loose.
Cover the bowl and set aside for 3-4 hours at room temperature, or up to 12 hours in the refrigerator.

For the Bread:

Pour the warm water into the bowl of a stand mixer. Add the yeast, whisk by hand to blend, and let the mixture stand for 10 minutes.
Fit the stand mixer with the dough hook attachment. Add the preferment and the olive oil and mix on low speed for 1 minute. Add the flour, rosemary, thyme, and salt. Mix on low speed until it comes together in a cohesive mass, about 2-3 minutes. It will look wet and sticky.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap, and let it rest for 20 minutes to allow it to fully hydrate before any further kneading.
Turn the mixer to medium-low and continue to mix until the dough is firm, elastic, and smooth, about 5-7 minutes. It will still be soft. Add more flour, one tablespoon at a time, if the dough feels too sticky to work with.
Lightly oil a large bowl, and transfer the dough to the bowl, rolling it around in the oil. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and let the dough rise until doubled in size, 1 1/2-2 hours.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured work surface. Gently press down on the dough to expel some of the air bubbles. Cut the dough in half, and transfer each half to two baking sheets lined with parchment paper or silicone mats. Using your hands, lightly stretch and form the dough into a large leaf shape.
Make the design, using a sharp knife to cut slits in the dough to resemble leaf veins: one slit down the center, then two or three slits at an angle on each side of the center. If using silicone mats, be careful to not cut through the material. Gently stretch out each slit to make decorative holes.
Cover the dough loosely with plastic wrap, and let the dough proof for 30-40 minutes.
While the dough is proofing, preheat the oven to 425°F.
Gently brush the surface of the proofed dough with olive oil, and sprinkle salt and chopped herbs on top. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the bread is golden brown. Transfer to a cooling rack to cool slightly. Serve while still warm.

Fresh salmon cakes

Serves: 4

Preparation time:20 minutes

Cooking time:15 minutes

The cooked salmon cakes can be frozen for up to 3 months. Before serving, defrost in the refrigerator before reheating.

Ingredients

FOR THE SALMON CAKES
¼ cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, from 1 lemon
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
¾ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1¼ lb skinless salmon fillet, finely diced into ¼-inch pieces
1¼ cups panko bread crumbs, divided
¼ cup thinly sliced scallions, from 3 to 4 scallions, light and dark green parts
⅓ cup finely diced celery, from 2 stalks
1/2 cup finely diced sweete red pepper
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh dill
½ cup vegetable oil
tartar sauce and/or lemon wedges, for serving

preparation

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, mustard, Old Bay, salt, and pepper. Add the diced salmon, ¼ cup of the panko, the scallions, the celery, red pepper, and the dill. Gently mix to combine.
2. Place the remaining 1 cup of panko in a shallow dish. Using a ⅓-cup measure, scoop the salmon mixture and form into a compact cake about 1 inch high. Place the salmon cake into the panko and gently coat it all over in crumbs. Repeat with the remaining mixture to form about 9 cakes. Refrigerate the salmon cakes for a few hours until ready to cook
3. Heat the oil in a medium nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Place half of the salmon cakes in the skillet and cook without moving until golden brown, about 2 minutes. Flip the cakes and cook until second side is golden brown, about 2 minutes more. Reduce the heat to medium if the cakes are browning too quickly. Transfer cakes to paper towel–lined plate to drain. Repeat with the remaining cakes (no need to change the oil). Serve warm.

Fried finnish vendace

Serves: 4

Preparation time:10 minutes

Cooking time:15 minutes

Fried Finnish vendace or “muikku” in Finnish is a freshwater whitefish, the equivalent of Finland’s own ‘fish and chips’ as the dish features a local fish that is found in Finland, served with mashed potatoes.

Ingredients

2 cups of plain flour
1 cup of rye flour
2 lbs small vendaces (dried and gutted)
White pepper
Salt
Butter
1 tbsp of cooking oil or olive oil
Mayonnaise or yogurt sauce

preparation

Season the plain and rye flour with salt and pepper in a large bowl.
Coat the vendace in the flour mixture.
Fry the fish in a pan in the butter-oil mixture over medium heat until brown on both sides.
It takes about 3-4 minutes to fry the fish on each side. Proceed to add some additional butter and oil when to cook more fish. The dish is best served with fried potatoes (or mashed potatoes) and a sauce.

Fried flying fish

Serves: 4

Preparation time:15 minutes

Cooking time:10 minutes

Flying fish is a well known delicacy in Barbados and can be found in the homes of many Barbadians. Whether its fried or stewed, flaked or striped, flying fish is loved and enjoyed by every Bajan alike! The delicious little fish is often fried and eaten in bread with a variety of toppings; referred to locally as a “fish cutter”.

Ingredients

Flying Fish fillets
1 lime
2 teaspoons salt
2 tablespoons Caribbean seasoning
1 egg
1 cup extra fine breadcrumbs
1 cup flour
Salt and black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika (other dried seasonings)
Oil for frying

preparation

Place flying fish in a bowl and squeeze the juice of the lime onto the fish, sprinkle the two table spoons of salt onto the fish and make sure its evenly coated in the mixture. This process is called “lime and salting” and it is a necessary step for Barbadians when preparing fish.

Let the mixture soak for 1/2 hour, then rinse the fish off with water and pat dry. Add the two tablespoons of Caribbean seasoning to the fish and ensure it is well coated. Cover the fish and leave for an hour, to allow the flavours to penetrate the fish.

Wisk the egg in a medium sized bowl and add salt and pepper to taste. Add breadcrumbs, flour, paprika, salt, pepper and any other dry seasons you may have into a medium sized bowl and combine the mixture.

Heat oil in shallow flying pan. Dip fish one at a time into the egg mixture and let it soak for a minuet. Shake off the excess egg and dip fish into breadcrumb mixture making sure the fish is completely covered. Once again shaking off the excess mixture and place fish gentle into hot oil and allow to cook until golden brown on both sides. When finished remove fish from oil and place on absorbent paper to collect excess oil.

Recipe source; https://loopbarbados.com/

Fried green tomatoes

Serves: 5

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:20 minutes

Fried green tomatoes are a southern tradition made famous by the movie of the same name.
They are so popular in the south that gardeners plant extra slicing tomatoes to be harvested green for this recipe.

Ingredients

4 green tomatoes, cut in 1/4-inch slices
1 cup flour
1 egg beaten with cup skim milk
1 cup yellow cornmeal
1 teaspoon each salt and black pepper
Canola oil for frying

preparation

Assemble ingredients. Spread flour on a sheet of waxed paper or on a plate. Put the egg wash in a shallow dish. Spread the cornmeal on a sheet of waxed paper or plate, add salt and pepper, and mix well.
Dredge the tomato slices in flour and shake off the excess. Dip each slice in the egg wash and drain off excess, and then coat with the cornmeal, shaking off excess gently.
Place on a tray and set aside. Heat the oil in a large heavy (preferably cast iron) skillet over a medium flame.
When hot, add the tomato slices. Do not overcrowd the skillet. Cook several minutes, until golden, then turn.
Drain on paper towels and serve while still hot.

Fried sesame drumsticks

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Cooking time:15 minutes

Ingredients

8 drumsticks
1 egg
1 teaspoon water
1 teaspoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup flour
1/4 cup sesame seeds
1/2 gallon vegetable oil

preparation

Rinse drumsticks and pat dry. In a shallow dish, beat together the egg, water, soy sauce, and salt.
Combine sesame seeds and flour in a bowl. Dip drumsticks in egg mixture; coat in sesame mixture.
In a large skillet, over medium heat, heat the oil.
Fry the drumsticks in hot oil about 3 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
Reduce heat to medium low. Cook for 10 more minutes, or until juices run clear when pierced with a fork.

Gnocchi alla romana

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 25 minutes

Cooking time:30 minutes

Ingredients

3 cups whole or low fat milk
3/4 cup semolina flour or yellow polenta
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
3 oz finely grated Parmigiano-Reggiano (1 1/2 cups)
2 large eggs
2 cups of pasta or Marinara sauce (optional)

preparation

Whisk together milk, semolina, and 1/2 teaspoon salt in a 2-quart heavy saucepan and bring to a boil over moderate heat, whisking. Simmer, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon, until very stiff, 5 to 8 minutes.
Remove from heat and stir in 2 tablespoons butter and 3/4 cup Parmigiano-Reggiano. Beat in eggs.
Spread gnocchi mixture 1 inch thick on an oiled baking sheet or a 9-inch square baking pan and chill, uncovered, until very firm, about 1 hour.
Preheat oven to 425°F.
Cut out squares, or other shapes from gnocchi mixture and arrange, slightly overlapping, in a well-buttered 13- by 9-inch baking dish. Brush gnocchi with remaining 1/4 cup melted butter and sprinkle with remaining 3/4 cup Parmigiano-Reggiano.
Bake in middle of oven until gnocchi are beginning to brown, 15 to 20 minutes. Let stand 5 minutes before serving.
Serve with hot pasta or Marinara sauce (optional).

Gnocchi parisienne

Serves: 8

Preparation time: 30 minutes

Cooking time:20 minutes

Ingredients

2 cups milk
4 ounces butter
8 ounces all purpose flour
7 medium eggs
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 ounces grated Swiss cheese
1 double recipe Recipe of Cream sauce
4 ounces grated Swiss cheese

preparation

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
In a medium saucepan, boil the milk with the butter. Remove from heat then add the flour all at once stirring continuously.
Mix in the eggs one at the time.
Stir in the salt and cheese.
In a large saucepan, boil 2 quarts of salted water. Spoon the mixture in a pastry bag fitted with a large plain pastry tip. Squeeze the mixture out and as it comes out, use a small knife to cut into small pieces and drop in boiling water.
Cook for 2 minutes. Transfer to cold water and drain when completely cold.
Spread the gnocchi in one layer in a large baking dish. Pour the warm cream sauce over.
Sprinkle with cheese. Brown in oven until golden brown and bubbly.

Gnocchi with green chive sauce

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 50 minutes

Cooking time:5 minutes.

Ingredients

For gnocchi:
3 russet potatoes
1 egg, beaten
2 teaspoons cream
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
3 cups flour

For sauce:
4 bunches chives, chopped
1 tablespoon butter
1 teaspoon white wine vinegar
1 cup cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

preparation

Peel and boil potatoes. Drain, and mash coarsely. Mix in egg, cream and seasonings.
Place flour in a large mixing bowl. Add potato mixture. Using a spatula, mix well. If sticky, add more flour. The dough should be soft but not elastic. On a work surface, form the mass into a log.
Divide the log into smaller portions and using your hands, roll out into 1/2-inch-long pieces.
Dust them well with flour. Hold a flour-dusted fork, concave side up, in one hand. With the other hand, push a piece of dough into the tines, making an indentation with your thumb. Then roll the dough off the tines, making a shape like a tiny bowl with ridges on the bottom. Flour the fork and repeat with rest of dough.
Sauce:
Saute chives in butter and a tablespoon water and vinegar. Simmer for 2 minutes Add cream. Simmer 10 minutes. Cook gnocchi in boiling water for 4 to 5 minutes.
Drain. Stir in the chive sauce. Heat and serve with Parmesan cheese.

Gnocchi with spinach and ricotta

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 30 minutes

Cooking time:5 minutes

Ingredients

1 teaspoon chopped onion
2 teaspoons butter
2 teaspoons fine chopped pancetta or unsmoked ham
1-10 ounce package frozen spinach, thawed or 1 pound fresh
salt to taste
3/4 cup ricotta
2/3 cup flour
2 egg yolks
1 cup grated Parmesan
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

preparation

Melt butter in a skillet, and saute onion until golden. Add ham and continue cooking for 3-4 minutes. Add spinach, salt to taste and saute for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring frequently.
Transfer to a mixing bowl. Stir in ricotta, flour, mixing thoroughly. Add egg yolks, cheese and nutmeg. Season to taste.
To shape gnocchi:
Roll into little sausages. Shape on butter ball wooden board or make small pellets out of the mixture, shaping them quickly in the palm of your hands. Ideally, they should 1/2-inch in diameter.
If the mixture begins to stick to your hands, dust your hands lightly with flour.
Cook gnocchi in salted boiling water for two to three minutes.

Serving suggestions:
- melted butter and Parmesan cheese. Bake to melt cheese.
- Boil in chicken broth, serve with Parmesan.
- tomato and/or cream sauce, and Parmesan.

Goat cheese gratin

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 10 minutes

Cooking time:5 minutes

You will need six shallow 6-inch (15 cm) round gratin dishes or one 10 1/2-inch (27 cm) round baking dish

Ingredients

10 ounces (300 g) soft goat cheese or a mix of rindless soft goat and cow or sheep's milk cheese, cubed
2 teaspoons minced fresh thyme leaves
2 teaspoons fresh rosemary leaves
2 teaspoons minced fresh oregano leaves or a pinch of dried leaf oregano, crushed
1 1/2 to 2 cups (33 to 50 cl) homemade tomato Sauce, at room temperature
24 best-quality black olives (such as French Nyons), pitted

preparation

Preheat the broiler.
Scatter the cheese on the bottom of the baking dish or dishes. Sprinkle with half of the herbs. Spoon on just enough tomato sauce to evenly coat the cheese. Sprinkle with olives and the remaining herbs.
Place the baking dish or dishes under the broiler about 3 inches (8 cm) from the heat.
Broil until the cheese is melted and fragrant, and the tomato sauce is sizzling, 2 to 3 minutes.
variations:
Add julienned bits of prociutto, diced cooked sausage, sautéed mushrooms, or marinated artichokes.

Goat cheese soufflés in phyllo cups

Serves: 8

Preparation time: 30 minutes

Cooking time:30 minutes

You will need a muffin pan with 12 (1/2- or 1/3-cup) muffin cups

Ingredients

For phyllo cups
6 (17- by 12-inch) phyllo sheets, thawed if frozen
1/2 stick (1/4 cup) unsalted butter, melted

For soufflé filling
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
3/4 cup whole milk
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
2 large eggs, separated
1/2 cup grated Parmesan
5 ounces soft mild goat cheese, crumbled (2/3 cup)
1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar

For salad
1 1/2 tablespoons wine vinegar
1 1/2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
1/4 teaspoon salt
5 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
8 ounces mache
3 endives, cut across into thin slices
3 tablespoons chopped fresh chives

preparation

Preheat oven to 375°F. Cover stack of phyllo with 2 overlapping sheets of plastic wrap and a dampened kitchen towel. Put 1 phyllo sheet on a work surface and brush with some butter, then top with 2 more sheets of phyllo, brushing each with butter.
Cut buttered stack into 6 (5-inch) rounds using with a round cutter. Line each of 6 muffin cups with a round. Make 6 more phyllo cups in same manner with remaining pastry sheets and butter. Bake cups about 8 minutes, then cool completely in pan on a rack.
Make filling:
Melt butter in a 3-quart heavy saucepan over moderately low heat, then whisk in flour. Cook roux, whisking, 3 minutes. Add milk in a stream, whisking, and bring to a boil, whisking. Reduce heat and simmer, whisking occasionally, 5 minutes.
Remove from heat and whisk in mustard, egg yolks, and 1/4 cup Parmesan until combined, then fold in goat cheese.
Beat egg whites with cream of tartar in a large bowl with an electric mixer until they just hold stiff peaks. Fold one third of whites into sauce to lighten, then fold in remaining whites gently but thoroughly.
Spoon batter into 8 phyllo cups and sprinkle with remaining Parmesan. Bake until soufflés are puffed and golden, about 15 minutes.

Make salad while soufflés bake:
Whisk together vinegar, mustard, and salt in a bowl, then add oil in a slow stream, whisking until emulsified. Just before soufflés are ready, toss mache and endives in a large bowl with just enough dressing to coat.
Mound salad onto 8 plates and sprinkle with chives, then make a small nest in center of each. Place a soufflé cup in each salad and serve immediately.

Grapefruit salad

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

3 tablespoons fish sauce
3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 large grapefruit (about 1 1/4 pounds) peeled, membrane removed, sectioned
2 tablespoons coarsely chopped peanuts
1 tablespoon finely chopped shallots
1 cup mint leaves, coarsely chopped
1 jalapeño pepper, finely chopped
bibb lettuce leaves, washed and dried

preparation

In a small bowl, mix together the fish sauce, lime juice and sugar. Whisk to dissolve sugar. Set aside.
Peel and cut grapefruit into sections. Store in a bowl. When ready to serve, pour off juice that has accumulated at the bottom of the bowl; reserve for another use.
Add peanuts, shallot, mint and pepper to the grapefruit and toss to combine.
Drizzle the dressing over the top; toss to combine. Taste and if necessary, adjust the balance of salt, sweet and sour. Transfer to a plate lined with lettuce leaves. Serve immediately.

Greek salad with grilled shrimp

Serves: 8

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:12 minutes

Ingredients

1 large head romaine, washed and cut into pieces
1 large green pepper, cut into pieces
1 large seedless cucumber, halved lengthwise, cut into pieces
2 bunches green onions, cut into 1/4-inch pieces
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup oil cured olives
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese

2 tablespoons olive oil
16 medium shrimp, peeled and halved lengthwise
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons finely minced oregano
salt and pepper to taste

Dressing:
3 tablespoons dry red wine
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
1 clove garlic, minced
2 tablespoons finely chopped oregano
1/4 cup olive oil

preparation

Toss together greens, pepper, cucumber, green onions and tomatoes. Toss with dressing. Scatter olives and feta over the top. In heavy skillet heat the olive oil. Add shrimp, garlic and oregano. Toss over high heat until shrimp are pink, curled and just cooked through. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Spoon over salad.
Dressing:
Combine all ingredients and beat until well blended.

Green peas soup

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 10 minutes

Cooking time:25 minutes

This is a smooth, creamy start for a casual summer meal.
Fresh peas give this cold soup its sweet flavor and velvety texture, but you can also use frozen.
This soup is also tasty hot.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons butter
1 cup chopped onions
1-1/2 cups chicken or vegetable stock
2 cups cubed peeled potatoes (2 potatoes)
2 cups (500 mL) shelled fresh peas (1-1/2 lb/750 g unshelled)
1 cup (250 mL) cream or milk
1/2 teaspoon each salt and pepper

Garnish:
1/2 cup green peas,
thinly sliced Half sweet red pepper, finely chopped

preparation

In large saucepan, melt butter over medium-low heat; cook onions, stirring occasionally, until softened, 10 minutes. Add stock, 1 cup (250 mL) water and potatoes; bring to boil. Reduce heat, cover and simmer for 20 minutes. Add peas; simmer, covered, until peas are tender, 5 minutes.

In batches, transfer to blender or food processor; purée until smooth. Transfer to bowl. Blend in cream; stir in salt and pepper. Refrigerate until chilled, about 4 hours.
(Make-ahead: Place plastic wrap directly on surface; refrigerate for up to 1 day.)
Garnish:
Ladle into bowls; garnish with peas and red pepper.

Grilled chicken and vegetable pasta salad

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 30 minutes

Cooking time:40 minutes

Ingredients

2 red peppers
3 zucchini
2 corn cobs
1/3 cup olive oil
1/4 cup red wine vinegar
2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme or oregano
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon each pepper and sugar
3/4 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
4 cups fusilli noodles

preparation

Seed and core red peppers; cut into 1-inch wide strips. Cut zucchini diagonally into 1/2 inch thick slices. Brush corn and zucchini with 2 tablespoons of the oil.
On lightly greased grill over medium heat and with lid closed, cook vegetables, turning corn often and peppers and zucchini halfway through cooking time until tender. Cool.
Slice kernels off corn and transfer to a large bowl. Cut red pepper strips into 3/4-inch chunks; add to bowl along with zucchini slices. Meanwhile, whisk together remaining oil, vinegar, thyme, mustard, salt, pepper and sugar.
Brush 2 tablespoons of the dressing over chicken. Grill chicken over medium-high heat with lid closed until no longer pink inside.
Slice into thin strips.
Cook pasta until tender but firm. Drain and rinse under cold water. Add to vegetables along with remaining dressing; toss to coat.
Top with chicken.

Grilled chicken salad with asparagus and blue cheese

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 40 minutes

Cooking time:1 hour

Ingredients

1/2 cup olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
salt and pepper to taste
2 1/4 pounds skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
1/2 pound asparagus, stems trimmed and peeled
1 red pepper, cut into matchsticks
1 yellow pepper, cut into matchsticks
1 small red onion, halved lengthwise and thinly sliced
2 teaspoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped
1/2 cup oil-packed sun-dried tomato halves, patted dry and coarsely chopped
3 ounces drained canned water chestnuts, thinly sliced
1/2 pound Gorgonzola or Stilton cheese, crumbled
1/2 pound finely diced ham
3 bibb lettuce, leaves separated

preparation

Whisk 3 tablespoons of the oil with the lemon juice, mustard and 1/2 teaspoon each of salt and pepper.
Add the chicken breast and turn to coat. Cover and marinate at room temperature for 1 hour.
In a large skillet of boiling salted water, cook the asparagus until crisp tender. Drain, rinse with cold water and drain again.
Cut the asparagus into 1 1/2 inch lengths.Grill or panfry the chicken until nicely browned and cooked through. Let cool.
Heat 2 more tablespoons of the oil in a large skillet. Add the peppers and onion and cook until crisp tender.
Cut the chicken into 1/4-inch thick slices. Transfer to a bowl, add the rosemary and toss.
Stir in the pepper mixture, asparagus, sun-dried tomatoes and water chestnuts.
Add the cheese, ham and remaining 3 tablespoons oil and toss well. Season with salt and pepper.
Serve the salad on lettuce leaves.

Grilled salmon fillets with sun-dried tomatoes

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Cooking time:15 minutes

Ingredients

4 salmon fillets with skin on (6 ounce portions)
3/4 cup sun dried tomatoes, finely chopped
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
2 tablespoons grapeseed oil
1 tablespoon Mrs. Dash original blend seasoning
Pam cooking spray for high temp cooking
Aluminum foil

preparation

Remove salmon fillets from refrigerator and allow them to reach room temperature.

Make topping: In a small bowl, combine sun dried tomatoes and butter. Mix thoroughly and set aside.

Preheat grill or cast iron griddle to medium heat. Brush fillets with grapeseed oil and season with Mrs. Dash seasoning.

Generously spray cooking surface with cooking spray. Place fillets on the grill, skin side up. Grill side without skin for approximately 2-3 minutes, watching carefully not to burn.

Flip to skin down side and grill for 3-4 minutes. Cover with foil until skin is crispy.

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Place generous portion of sun dried tomato topping on top of fillets. Heat for another 6-7 minutes, until sun dried tomatoes begin to crisp.

Serve immediately.

Grilled tomatoes kebabs

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:4 minutes

Small tomatoes such as cherry, current or pear tomatoes are best eaten raw or briefly cooked. They are perfect for skewering and grilling because they do not fall apart, unless overcooked. If you are using wooden skewers, soak them for 30 minutes in cold water before using.

Ingredients

36 small tomatoes, such as Cherry, Ping Pong, or Yellow Pear
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon dried oregano
salt and black pepper to taste
Six wooden or metal skewers

preparation

Wash and drain tomatoes. Using a paper towel, dry each or spread on towels and allow to air dry so the oil will stick to the skins.
Place the dry tomatoes in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, and season with oregano and pepper.
Toss to coat tomatoes. Thread 6 tomatoes, spaced at least an inch apart, on each of the 6 skewers.
Brush hot grill grate with oil to prevent sticking. Arrange skewers on grate.
Grill 2 to 4 minutes. Turn and grill the other side for 1 to 2 minutes. Remove skewers and sprinkle with salt, if desired.

Grilled vegetable stacks

Serves: 8

Preparation time: 40 minutes

Cooking time:20 minutes

Ingredients

2 medium eggplants
1 teaspoon salt
1 medium yellow squash
1 medium zucchini
2 medium tomatoes
for the dressing:
1/2 cup virgin olive oil
2 1/2 teaspoons red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon coarse chopped fresh parsley
1 teaspoon coarse chopped fresh basil
to taste salt and black ground pepper
1/2 cup diced red bell pepper, or hot chile such as serrano

preparation

Slice eggplants into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Sprinkle with salt, and layer in a colander. Set aside to drain for 20 minutes.
Press slices with paper towels to remove moisture. Preheat a gas or charcoal grill, (or place a stove-top grill pan over high heat). Slice squash and zucchini into 1/4-inch thick rounds, and slice tomatoes into 1/2-inch thick rounds.
Lightly brush all vegetables with oil, then grill turning once, until tender and slightly charred.
The dressing:
Whisk together oil, vinegar, parsley and basil. Season with salt and pepper.
To assemble: Place 1 eggplant round on a plate and stack on top a tomato round, a second eggplant round, and squash and zucchini rounds. Drizzle with dressing and top with diced red pepper.

Ham and cheese toast

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:10 minutes

Ingredients

2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons flour
1 cup milk to taste salt, pepper
1 tablespoon dry white wine
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/8 teaspoon nutmeg
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1 egg yolk
2 cups grated Swiss cheese
6 slices crisp unbuttered toasts, ends trimmed
6 thin slices cooked ham

preparation

Preheat broiler to high.
In a heavy saucepan, melt the butter and add flour, stirring with a whisk. Add milk. Whisk until sauce thickens. Season with salt with salt, pepper, wine, cayenne, nutmeg and garlic. Add egg yolk and bring to the boil, stirring. Remove from heat.
Stir in cheese until melted.
Arrange slices of toast in one layer in a baking pan. Top each slice with ham. Spread cheese mixture evenly over ham.
Broil until bubbly and browned on top. Serve hot

Ham aspic with egg salad and avocado

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:15 minutes

Ingredients

12 slices thin ham
1 1/2 cups egg salad
1 cup aspic jelly
avocado slices
egg slices

preparation

Make ham rolls stuffing the egg salad in each slice. Pour liquid aspic in an 8 by 8-inch dish.
Let set until firm. Arrange stuffed ham on a platter. Decorate with avocado and egg slices.
Decorate platter with chopped aspic jelly. Refrigerate before serving.

Healthy baked chicken nuggets

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:15 minutes

An easy chicken recipe your whole family will love. What can be more kid friendly than chicken nuggets, even the pickiest kids like them. Serve them with ketchup, bbq sauce or whatever you like to dip your nuggets into.

Ingredients

1 pound (2 large) skinless boneless chicken breasts, cut into even bit sized pieces
salt and pepper to taste
2 tsp olive oil
6 tbsp whole wheat Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
2 tbsp panko
2 tbsp grated parmesan cheese
olive oil spray

preparation

Preheat oven to 425°. Spray a baking sheet with olive oil spray.

Put the olive oil in one bowl and the breadcrumbs, panko and parmesan cheese in another.

Season chicken with salt and pepper, then put in the bowl with the olive oil and mix well.

Put a few chunks of chicken at a time into the breadcrumb mixture to coat, then on the baking sheet. Lightly spray the top with olive oil spray then bake 8 - 10 minutes. Turn over then cook another 4 - 5 minutes or until cooked through.

Herbed seafood casserole

Serves: 8

Preparation time: 30 minutes

Cooking time:1 hour

Ingredients

1 cup white rice
2 cups boiling water
2 tablespoons chopped parsley
1 tablespoon butter
1 medium chopped onion
3 minced garlic cloves
1 large chopped carrot
1 cup chopped fennel or celery
1 tablespoon chopped dill
salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon butter
1 pound clean scallops
1 pound cleaned and deveined shrimp
1 pound cooked crabmeat or cooked mussels
2 ounces butter
1/4 cup flour
2 cups milk
1/2 pound cream cheese
1 tablespoon chopped dill
2 tablespoons chopped parsley

Topping:
2 tablespoons bread crumbs
1 tablespoon melted butter.
chopped parsley

preparation

In a saucepan, combine white rice with salted boiled water.
Cover and simmer 20 minutes. Water should be absorbed. Stir in chopped parsley.
In a skillet, melt butter. Add and Saute chopped onion, minced garlic cloves, large chopped carrot, and chopped fennel or celery until tender. Stir in chopped dill, salt and pepper.
In a skillet, melt butter. Saute clean scallops until opaque. Transfer to a bowl. Saute clean and deveined shrimp until pink.
Add to bowl. Add clean cooked crabmeat to seafood.
In the same skillet, melt butter. Whisk in flour. Stir well. Add milk. Stir till thickened. Whisk in cream cheese, chopped dill, chopped parsley. Add seafood.
Line bottom of greased 13 by 9-inch baking dish with rice. Spoon seafood over. Spoon seafood mix over top.
Topping:
Mix bread crumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle over casserole.
Bake at 350 degrees about 40 minutes until golden brown and heated through. Garnish with chopped parsley.

Herbed spinach-ricotta srudel

Serves: 6

Preparation time:30 minutes

Cooking time:40 minutes

Ingredients

1 (10-ounce) package frozen spinach
1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, divided
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1/2 cup minced green onions
1/4 cup minced fresh basil
3 tablespoons minced fresh oregano
1 tablespoon minced fresh thyme
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 egg whites
6 sheets phyllo pastry
Vegetable cooking spray

preparation

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Drain spinach and remove excess moisture. Place ricotta in a cheesecloth-lined colander, and let drain 2 hours. Combine ricotta, 2 tablespoons Parmesan and cornstarch; stir well. Add drained spinach, green onions, basil, oregano, thyme, and salt; stir well.
Beat egg whites at high speed until stiff peaks form. Fold one-fourth of beaten egg white into spinach mixture; gently fold in remaining egg white.
Place 1 sheet of phyllo on a damp towel (keep remaining phyllo covered); lightly coat phyllo with cooking spray. Repeat layers twice. Spoon half of spinach mixture along short side of phyllo, leaving 1-inch borders on outer edges and a 2-inch border at short end.
Fold short edge of phyllo over filling. Fold lengthwise edges in 1-inch, and roll up, jelly roll fashion. Lightly coat phyllo roll with cooking spray. Place, seam side down, on a baking sheet coated with cooking spray; pierce top several times with tip of sharp knife, and sprinkle with 1 tbsp of Parmesan.
Repeat procedure with remaining phyllo, spinach mixture and Parmesan. Bake at 375 for 35 to 40 minutes or until crisp and golden. Cut each strudel in slices and serve hot or room temperature.

Herbed spinach-ricotta strudel

Serves: 8

Preparation time: 30 minutes

Cooking time:40 minutes

Ingredients

preparation

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
Drain spinach and remove excess moisture. Place ricotta in a cheesecloth-lined colander, and let drain 2 hours. Combine ricotta, 2 tablespoons Parmesan and cornstarch; stir well. Add drained spinach, green onions, basil, oregano, thyme, and salt; stir well.
Beat egg whites at high speed until stiff peaks form. Fold one-fourth of beaten egg white into spinach mixture; gently fold in remaining egg white.
Place 1 sheet of phyllo on a damp towel (keep remaining phyllo covered); lightly coat phyllo with cooking spray. Repeat layers twice. Spoon half of spinach mixture along short side of phyllo, leaving 1-inch borders on outer edges and a 2-inch border at short end. Fold short edge of phyllo over filling.
Fold lengthwise edges in 1-inch, and roll up, jelly roll fashion. Lightly coat phyllo roll with cooking spray. Place, seam side down, on a baking sheet coated with cooking spray; pierce top several times with tip of sharp knife, and sprinkle with 1 tbsp of Parmesan. Repeat procedure with remaining phyllo, spinach mixture and Parmesan.
Bake at 375 for 35 to 40 minutes or until crisp and golden. Cut each strudel in slices and serve hot or room temperature.

Irish stew

Serves: 8

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:2 hours

Ingredients

8 medium potatoes, sliced
1/4 inch thick
5 large onions, peeled and sliced
5 pounds boneless lamb neck and shoulder
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1/2 teaspoon thyme freshly ground pepper to taste
2 pounds carrots, peeled and carve into olive shapes
1 tablespoon chopped parsley

preparation

Spread potato slices in a 5 quart stew pot or Dutch oven.
Cover with one half of the onions and the meat. Sprinkle with thyme, salt and pepper.
Arrange remaining onion on top. Half cover the ingredients with water, and bring to a boil.
Remove foamy part on surface. Cover pot. Lower heat and simmer for 1 hour.
Add carrots and more water if necessary; cover and continue cooking for another 30 to 40 minutes or until the meat and carrots are tender. Serve hot sprinkled with chopped parsley.
Note: the stew may also be baked in a 350 degree oven.

Kale and brussels sprout salad with walnuts parmesan and lemon-mustard dressing

Serves: 6

Preparation time:25 minutes

Cooking time:5 minutes

This wonderful salad is even better the next day.
Inspired by Bon Appètit.

Ingredients

For the Salad
1 cup raw almonds with skins or walnuts, chopped
1 pound brussels sprouts, trimmed, halved and thinly sliced
1 pound Tuscan or curly kale (about 1 large bunch), thick center rib removed, leaves thinly sliced
1 cup coarsely grated Parmigiano Reggiano or Pecorino
For the Dressing
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice, from about 2 lemons
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons finely chopped shallots, from one large shallot
1 small clove garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

preparation

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy clean-up. Bake the walnuts for 5-8 minutes, until toasted and fragrant. Keep a close eye on them; they burn quickly.
Combine the brussels sprouts and kale in a large bowl.
Make the dressing by combining all of the ingredients in a small bowl. Pour over the vegetables. Add most of the walnuts and cheese, reserving some to garnish the platter, and toss well. Let the salad sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes (or up to a few hours in the fridge) to allow the flavors to meld and the vegetables to soften. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Transfer to a serving dish and scatter the remaining walnuts and cheese over top. Serve at room temperature.

Kale tabbouleh

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Cooking time:15 minutes

Use bulgur wheat as the base for this Middle Eastern salad of supe rhealthy greens, feta cheese and spices

Ingredients

1 cup fine bulgur
1 bunch kale, stems removed, leaves finely chopped (5 cups)
3 tablespoons mint, roughly chopped
4 tablespoons chopped parsley
2 spring onions, sliced
½ cucumber, diced
4 tomatoes, deseeded and chopped
pinch of ground cinnamon
pinch of ground allspice
6 tbsp olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
100g feta cheese, crumbled
4 lettuce leaves separated, to serve

preparation

Cook bulgur according to package instructions. Cool.
Stir the kale, mint, spring onions, cucumber and tomatoes through the bulghar wheat. Season with the cinnamon and allspice, then dress with the olive oil and lemon juice to taste. Scatter over the feta. To serve, scoop the salad onto leaves of lettuce.

Kedgeree of salmon with sea asparagus

Serves: 10 to 12

Preparation time: 30 minutes

Cooking time:1 hour

A colorful dish using fresh and smoked salmon, decorated in yellow, white and green.The recipe can be cut in half.

Sea asparagus, also known as Salicornia has a salty, crunchy brininess.
The plant grows in protected salt marshes on all continents except Antarctica.
To cook sea asparagus, blanch the plant in boiling water for 1 to 2 minutes,
then shock it in a bowl of ice water.
Once you have your blanched sea asparagus, all you really need to do is dress them with your best olive oil and add a little lemon juice, balsamic vinegar or other acidic component, plus a few grinds of black pepper.

Ingredients

3 tablespoons butter
5 medium chopped scallions
2 cups sour cream
3 tablespoons curry powder
2 pounds salmon, poached
1 pound smoked salmon, diced
2 cups converted rice
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
6 hard cooked eggs
1 tablespoon onion, chopped
2 tablespoons soft butter
2 tablespoons parsley, chopped
8 sprigs fresh parsley

1 cup lemon butter

preparation

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
Melt the butter in a saute pan. Add the scallions and cook over low heat for 5 minutes. Add the sour cream and curry powder. Mix well.
Flake the boneless and skinless cooked salmon. Combine with the diced smoked salmon.
In a separate pot, stir the rice with the chicken broth. Bring to a boil. Cover and cook over medium heat until the liquid is almost absorbed.
While the rice is cooking, separate the egg yolks from the whites. Chop the egg whites.
Reserve. Chop the egg yolks and save for garnish.
Combine the rice and the salmon mixture. Mix in half of the egg whites. Butter a deep casserole dish large enough for the rice mixture. Spoon the salmon-rice mixture into the casserole dish. Bake at 400 degrees for 10 minutes. Lower the oven temperature to 350 degrees, and bake for 40 to 45 minutes.

PRESENTATION

Unmold the kedgeree unto a serving platter. Garnish the top with rows of the chopped egg yolks, chopped onion, and chopped parsley. Garnish the platter with sprigs of parsley.
Serve with the lemon butter.

Khachapuri cheese bread

Serves: 4

Preparation time:1 hour

Cooking time:10 minutes

Khachapuri is a Georgian rich cheesy bread. This is a plant-based low-fat, version.

Ingredients

For the dough

¼ cup non-dairy milk
½ cup + 2 tablespoons water
½ teaspoon sugar
1½ teaspoons active dry yeast
1¾ cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon olive oil + more for greasing and brushing

For the “cheese sauce”

6 oz baking potato, peeled and chopped bite-sized
½ small carrot, chopped bite-sized
¾ tablespoons nutritional yeast
¾ teaspoon vinegar
½ teaspoon salt
2-3 tablespoons water
1½ tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons onion, chopped finely
3 tablespoons poblano, chopped finely
½ garlic clove, diced finely
½ teaspoon chipotle in adobo sauce
A pinch of ground cumin

For the final assembly/garnish

2 teaspoons non-dairy milk
2 cup mozzarella (optional)
1 spring onion, sliced
Red pepper flakes (optional)

preparation

Make the dough

In a microwave-proof bowl, combine non-dairy milk and water, and heat for 30-45 seconds or until the temperature reads 105°F – 115°F (the temperature range to activate the yeast).
Add sugar and active dry yeast, stir and let sit for 5-10 minutes until the yeast is activated and becomes frothy on the top.
While the yeast is activating, in a bowl, combine flour and salt. Make a well in the center.
Pour the activated yeast solution in the center and knead the dough. It will be sticky at the start, but as the gluten begins to develop, it’ll get less sticky and springier.
Once the dough is soft, smooth and springs back when pressed, add 1 teaspoon olive oil and coat bowl and dough generously.
Cover with a damp cloth and let proof in a warm spot for 1-1½ hours until doubled in size.
Make the “cheese sauce”

When the dough has been proofing for about an hour, bring a small pot of water to a rolling boil.
Add the chopped potato and carrot and cook until tender. Drain and add to a blender along with the nutritional yeast, vinegar and salt. Blend until smooth and creamy adding 2-3 tablespoons of water till you get a nice pourable consistency. Set aside.
In a small skillet, heat oil on medium heat and sauté the chopped onion, poblano and garlic with a pinch of salt until it begins to soften and brown.
Add the chipotle in adobo sauce, ground cumin. Adjust salt to taste. Remove from heat and stir into the blended potato sauce. Set aside.
Shape the dough

Preheat oven to 450°F. Line a medium baking tray with parchment paper.
Divide the proofed dough into two equal halves, kneading each until soft and smooth. Keep the other dough half-covered as you’re working with the first one.
Sprinkle a clean, dry work surface generously with flour and roll out one piece of dough into a circle about 10” in diameter.
Roll the top and bottom edges of the circle, and shape like a boat, twisting the left and right ends to seal the edges.
Repeat with the other dough. Transfer both “boats” to the prepared baking tray.
Brush the edge of each khachapuri with a little oil, and non-dairy milk.
Let them sit and rise for another 10 minutes.
Bake!

Bake in the preheated oven at 450°F in the middle-rack for 8 minutes.
Remove from the oven, and fill both khachapuris with the “cheese” sauce filling.
Divide the ¼ cup vegan mozzarella (if using) between the two khachapuris.
Continue baking for another 4 minutes or until the mozzarella is molten and the sauce is warm.
Remove from heat, brush the edges with olive oil and garnish generously with chopped spring onion and red pepper flakes to taste.
Serve immediately. Tear off pieces of the bread and dunk into the cheese filling and enjoy!

Lasagna

Serves: 10

Preparation time: 1 hour

Cooking time:25 minutes

Ingredients

5 cups meat sauce, see recipe below
1 pound lasagna noodles
2 cups mozzarella cheese
4 cups medium cream sauce (see sauces)
3 cups cooked chopped spinach

For meat sauce:
2 teaspoons vegetable oil
1 1/2 cups chopped onions
1/4 cup chopped parsley
3 garlic cloves, chopped
1 pound ground beef
1-28 ounce can plum tomatoes, chopped
1 1/2 cups beef stock
3 teaspoons tomato paste
2 teaspoons dried oregano
2 bay leaves salt and pepper

preparation

Meat sauce:
In a large heavy saucepan heat oil over moderate heat. Add onion, parsley and garlic.
Cook until onions are soft, about 5 minutes. Add beef and cook while stirring and breaking up the meat, until evenly brown.
Add tomatoes, beef stock, tomato paste, oregano and bay leaves; cook stirring over medium heat until mixture starts to simmer.
Reduce heat and simmer for one hour or until thickened to desired consistency.
Remove bay leaves. Add salt and pepper to taste.

PASTA:
Cook 1 pound of lasagna in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Transfer to cold water to cool the pasta.
When cold, arrange pasta on a sheet pan.
Cover with a moist towel.
TO ASSEMBLE LASAGNA:
Spread about 1/2 cup of meat sauce over the bottom of a 13 by 9 inch deep baking dish. Arrange a layer of lasagna noodles on top. Spread with a little meat sauce, then a little cream sauce, and half of the spinach. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
Repeat the same process until all ingredients have been used, finishing with cream sauce and cheese.
Bake at 400 degrees for 20 to 30 minutes, or refrigerate until needed, then bake at 375 degrees for 40 to 50 minutes.

Latkes and smoked salmon club sandwich with dill aioli

Serves: 2

Preparation time:15 minutes

Cooking time:20 minutes

It’s hard not to love a latke. The golden-brown potato fritters, which are a hallmark of Hanukkah celebrations and a ubiquitous menu item at Jewish delicatessens, tick all the comfort-food boxes: crunchy, starchy, salty and delicious.

Ingredients

Latkes
2 pounds baking potatoes
1 medium white onion, grated
2 eggs, beaten
1 tablespoon cornstarch
oil for frying

AÏOLI
1/2 cup (125 mL) mayonnaise
1 tsp (5 mL) finely grated lemon zest
1 tbsp (15 mL) lemon juice
1 clove garlic, finely minced
1 tbsp (15 mL) finely chopped fresh dill
2 tsp (10 mL) capers, drained,
finely chopped
1/2 tsp (2 mL) freshly ground black pepper

6 oz (170 g) smoked salmon, thinly sliced
4 leaves bibb lettuce
4 slices ripe tomato

preparation

Shred the potato and mix with grated onion. Using a clean kitchen cloth, squeeze the liquid out of the potatoes. Repeat the process until it's mostly drained.
Combine the potato mixture with the beaten eggs, cornstarch, and salt. Microwave for 30 seconds. Drain liquid once more, if needed.
Heat a pan with a small amount of vegetable oil. Working in batches, spoon 2 tablespoons of the mixture and form into small patties. Fry on both sides until golden brown.
Drain on a wire rack lined with paper towels. Repeat the process. Try to keep them the same size for even cooking time and presentation.
Remove latkes and pat them dry with paper towels; keep warm.

1. To make aïoli, combine mayonnaise, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, dill, capers and pepper in a medium bowl and mix thoroughly. Keep refrigerated until ready to use.

2. Preheat oven to 250°F (121°C).

3. Place latkes on a baking tray and heat in oven until warm but not too hot to touch, 3 to 4 minutes.

4. Spread a little aïoli over 4‑latkes. Top 2 with smoked salmon, and 2 with lettuce and tomato. Place lettuce-and-tomato-topped latkes on smoked-salmon-topped latkes. Top with final 2 latkes to make “triple-decker”-style club sandwiches.

Lemon grass fettuccini with seared shrimp and scallops

Serves: 8

Preparation time: 1 hour

Cooking time:40 minutes

Ingredients

2 red peppers
2 (10 oz) cans condensed chicken broth
4 inch (10 cm) piece fresh unpeeled ginger, thinly sliced, about 1 cup (250 mL)
6 to 8 stalks lemongrass, about 2 bunches
2 cups container whipping or table cream
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1/4 cup cold water
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice (optional)
1 tablespoon salt
1 pound bay or sea scallops
1 pound frozen or defrosted, raw shelled medium-size shrimp
2 pounds fettuccine
1 tablespoon ( 15 ml) each of butter and vegetable oil

preparation

1. Preheat oven to 450F (230C). Slice peppers in half and remove seeds.
Place cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with foil. Roast, uncovered, until peppers are partially charred, from 15 to 20 minutes. Remove from oven, pull up edges of foil, wrap around hot peppers and seal. Set aside to cool.
2. Meanwhile, pour broth into a wide saucepan. Add ginger. Thinly slice root ends from lemongrass and discard. Remove any dried outer leaves. Pound stalks to flatten slightly. Slice into 1/2-inch (1-cm) pieces. Add to broth. Place over high heat. When boiling, reduce heat to medium or medium-high so broth gently boils. Boil, uncovered, until reduced to 1 cup (250 ml). This should take at least 20 minutes. Broth will taste very strong. Saving broth, strain and discard ginger and lemongrass.
3. Return broth to saucepan set over medium-high heat. Add cream. In a small dish using a fork, stir cornstarch with water to form a smooth paste. Whisk into hot cream broth and whisk almost constantly until thickened, from 3 to 4 minutes. Taste and stir in lemon juice, if you like. Cover and remove from heat. If making ahead, refrigerate in a sealed jar for up to 2 days.
4. About 15 minutes before serving, bring a large pot of water and salt to a boil. If using sea scallops, slice in half. Rinse frozen shrimp with cold water to remove clinging ice crystals. Then drain and pat dry. Prepare roasted peppers by draining juice accumulated in foil into a small bowl. Peel off charred skins and discard. Slice peppers into bite-size strips and add to juice. Set aside.
5. When water is boiling rapidly, add pasta and cook, uncovered and stirring occasionally, until al dente, from 8 to 10 minutes. Meanwhile, heat oil and butter in a wide frying pan set over medium- high heat. Add seafood and stir-fry until scallops are lightly browned and shrimp are bright pink, about 4 minutes. Stir in peppers and juice. Drain pasta well. In a large bowl, stir pasta with cream sauce until coated. Place in pasta bowls and spoon seafood mixture over top.

Lentil burgers

Serves: 4

Preparation time:10 minutes

Cooking time:15 minutes

To ensure that the red lentils cook fully, soak them for at least 2 hours before using.
The key to the patties not falling apart when you cook them is to use soaked lentils.
Never cook them beforehand or use canned lentils.

Ingredients

1 ½ cups dried red lentils
2 large garlic cloves minced
1/3 cup diced shallot
1/2 cup grated carrots
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro or flat parsley
1/2 teaspoon salt or to taste
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
oil for pan frying

preparation

Soak the lentils in cold water to cover by about 2 inches for two hours. Rinse and drain thoroughly.
Combine the drained lentils, garlic, shallot, carrot, tomato paste, cilantro or parsley, salt, and black pepper in a food processor. Pulse until the ingredients are well combined and the mixture holds together, scraping the sides of the bowl as needed.
Pre-heat the oven to 400ºF. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
Scoop out ¼ cup of the mixture at a time. Shape into patties, about ½ inch thick.
Heat the oil in a large nonstick skillet. Cook the patties for about 4 minutes on each side, or until golden and crispy.
Bake the patties for 5 minutes. Flip them over and bake for about 5 more minutes.
Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Serve with a bun and desired toppings; a salad; or oven browned potatoes.

Lemon herb Tahini sauce

Lima bean appetizer

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 30 minutes

Cooking time:1 hour

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups dried large lima beans
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 clove garlic, minced
1 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
3 cups chopped tomatoes, seeded
1/4 teaspoon each salt and pepper
1/2 teaspoon grated lemon rind
1 tablespoon lemon juice

preparation

Soak beans for 6 hours. Drain and rinse under cold water. Place in a pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Skim top off. Simmer for 45 minutes or until tender. Drain.
In a large saucepan, heat oil over medium heat; add garlic, onion, oregano and cumin, and cook stirring often, until golden. Add tomatoes; cook for 10 minutes. Add beans, 1/2 cup water, salt and pepper; cook, stirring until coated.
Add lemon rind and juice.

Linguine alla carbonara

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Cooking time:25 minutes

Ingredients

9 ounces pancetta (smoked pancetta is best)
1 1/4 to 1 1/2 pounds linguine
2 ounces butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 1/2 cups heavy cream, heated
salt and ground black pepper to taste
2 egg yolks
1/2 cup heavy cream
6 ounces parmesan cheese, grated

preparation

Cut the pancetta into medium dices.
Fry in a frying pan until crisp. Drain on paper towels, and set aside.
Cook the linguine al dente and drain.
Heat the butter with the garlic and pancetta in a large skillet. Add the 1 1/2 cups hot heavy cream and heat through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Remove from heat. Combine the egg yolks with the 1/2 cup cream and mix well. Add to the skillet.
Combine the sauce with the linguine. Toss well to cover the pasta. Add Parmesan cheese and serve at once.

Linguine primavera

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Cooking time:15 minutes

Ingredients

1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
12 Sun-dried tomatoes, (not in oil)
1 pound linguine
5 tablespoons olive oil
8 cloves garlic, minced
8 ounces shiitake, stemmed, sliced
1 medium zucchini, chopped
12 Broccoli rabbi florets
1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
to taste salt and pepper
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

preparation

Heat broth in a small saucepan. Remove from heat. Add tomatoes. Let stand until soft. Drain reserving broth. Slice tomatoes into thin strips.
Heat oil in a heavy large skillet over high heat. Add minced garlic; sauté until golden, about 1 minute. Add reserved broth, sun-dried tomatoes strips, mushrooms, zucchini, broccoli rabe florets and basil. Simmer until vegetables are tender, about 3 minutes. Cook linguine in a large pot of boiling salted water until tender but still firm. Drain linguine; return to pot. Add vegetables and toss to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Transfer pasta mixture to bowl; sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.

Macaroni and cheese

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 25 minutes

Cooking time:30 minutes

Ingredients

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, plus more to grease the baking dish
1/2 cup bread crumbs
12 ounces sharp or extra-sharp Cheddar, grated (about 4 cups total)
1/2 pound elbow macaroni
2 cups whole milk
1 1/2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon dry mustard
1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

preparation

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Lightly butter a 9- by 9-inch baking dish.
In a small saucepan over moderate heat, melt 2 tablespoons of the butter. Place the bread crumbs in a small bowl, drizzle with the melted butter, and toss to combine. Add a handful of the grated cheese to the bowl, mix well and set aside.
In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the elbow macaroni until al dente. Drain the noodles, without rinsing, then return them to the pot they were cooked in.
In a medium saucepan over moderate heat, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the flour and use a whisk to stir the mixture together, just until it starts to turn a light brown color, about 3 minutes. Slowly add the milk and whisk constantly until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes. Remove from the heat and stir in the dry mustard, salt, and pepper.
Add the remaining grated cheese and stir with a spoon until it's completely melted. Adjust the seasoning to taste. Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked elbow macaroni and gently stir to coat the noodles in the sauce.
Pour the macaroni and cheese into the prepared baking dish and top with the breadcrumb-cheese mixture. Bake until light golden brown and bubbling, about 25-30 minutes. Serve hot.
DO AHEAD: Macaroni and cheese can be made ahead, put into the baking dish, cooled completely, and kept, covered in the refrigerator, for 2 days. Do not add the bread crumbs until ready to bake. (Chilled Macaroni and Cheese may take longer to be fully cooked.)

Marinated goat cheese crostini

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 12 hours

Cooking time:5 minutes

Ingredients

1 cup olive oil
1 tablespoon chopped parsley
2 teaspoons chopped thyme leaves
1 teaspoon chopped oregano
1 clove garlic, chopped
sprigs whole thyme and rosemary
4 individual goat cheese, like Crottin de Chavignol, picodon halved horizontally
2 plum tomatoes, stemmed and chopped
3 green onions, chopped
8 slices crusty French bread, lightly toasted
1 clove garlic, split in half
ground pepper

preparation

Heat oil in a saucepan. Do not overheat place herbs in a metal bowl. Pour oil over them. Cool completely and pour oil and herbs in a large jar with a tight-fitting lid. Add garlic and herb sprigs. Add goat cheese. Marinate 3 days in the refrigerator. Remove cheese from oil and drain. Refrigerate herb oil for other uses.

In a small bowl, combine tomatoes, green onions and 2 tablespoons olive oil. Rub one side of toasts with cut garlic.
Preheat broiler. Spoon tomato mixture onto the toast slices. Arrange on a baking sheet. Place one piece of cheese on each toast.
Broil 2 minutes or until cheese starts melting.
Serve immediately. Garnish with parsley sprigs.

Marinated vegetables

Serves: 10

Preparation time: 30 minutes

Cooking time:10 minutes

Ingredients

12 medium tomatoes
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground white pepper
24 tiny carrot sticks
24 tiny celery sticks
24 cauliflower rosettes
12 tiny mushrooms
24 broccoli rosettes
1 cup vinaigrette

preparation

Cut the tomatoes across in half, hollow them out slightly, and season with salt and pepper.
Blanch carrot, cucumber, cauliflower, and broccoli. Marinate carrots, cucumbers, cauliflower, and mushrooms separately in vinaigrette for 1 to 2 hours and drain.
Marinate broccoli for 5 minutes and drain. Arrange vegetables in tomato halves.
Refrigerate and serve.

Mediterranean farro salad

Serves: 8

Preparation time:15 minutes

Cooking time:30 minutes

Mediterranean Farro Salad with feta, fresh tomatoes, vegetables, and a bright red wine vinaigrette.

Ingredients

1 cup uncooked Farro, soaked in water for 1 hour
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 cup sundried tomatoes, cut into julienne slices
1 large cucumber seeded and finely diced
3/4 cup jarred roasted red peppers drained and finely diced
1 pint cherry tomatoes halved
1 cup frozen petite peas thawed
1/2 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese

For the Italian Vinaigrette Dressing:

1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1/4 cup red wine vinegar
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon honey
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

preparation

Rinse and drain farro, then cook according to package instructions. Transfer to a large mixing or serving bowl.
While the farro cooks, prepare the dressing: In a small bowl or large measuring cup, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon, honey, oregano, salt, and pepper until evenly blended. Pour half of the dressing over the warm farro and sprinkle with 1/4 teaspoon salt. Toss to coat.
Add all of the remaining ingredients to the bowl except for the feta: sundried tomatoes, cucumber, roasted red pepper, cherry tomatoes, peas, and parsley. Toss to coat. Taste and add as much of the remaining dressing as you like. Sprinkle with feta, lightly toss again, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve cold or at room temperature.

Mexican street corn salad-esquites

Serves: 4

Preparation time:15 minutes

Cooking time:15 minutes

All the delights of Mexican street corn (elotes) in salad form, and you don't even have to fire up the grill to make it.
Smoky, sweet, spicy, and tangy, esquites are the off-the-cob version of elotes—grilled Mexican street corn slathered with creamy, cheesy, lime-scented, chili-flecked sauce.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons (30ml) vegetable oil
4 ears fresh corn, shucked, kernels removed (about 3 cups fresh corn kernels)
Kosher salt
2 tablespoons (30ml) mayonnaise
1 tablespoon (30ml) sour cream
2 tablespoons (30ml) fresh lime juice
2 ounces (60g) feta or Cotija cheese, finely crumbled
1/2 cup finely sliced scallions, green parts only
1/2 cup (1/2 ounce) fresh cilantro leaves, finely chopped
1 jalapeño or serrano pepper, seeded and stemmed, finely chopped
1 to 2 medium cloves garlic, pressed or minced on a Microplane grater (about 1 to 2 teaspoons)

Chili powder or hot chili flakes, to taste

preparation

In a mixing bowl, whisk the mayonnaise, sour cream and lime juice.
Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet or wok over high heat until shimmering. Add corn kernels, season to taste with salt, toss once or twice, and cook without moving until charred on one side, about 2 minutes. Toss corn, stir, and repeat until charred on second side, about 2 minutes longer. Continue tossing and charring until corn is well charred all over, about 10 minutes total. Transfer to a large bowl.k
Add mayonnaise mixture, cheese, scallions, cilantro, jalapeño, garlic, and chili powder and toss to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and more chili powder to taste. Serve immediately.

Minestrone with cabbage and spinach

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:30 minutes

Ingredients

2 cups finely chopped celery
1 cup finely chopped onion
3/4 cup finely chopped leek (white and pale green parts only)
1/2 cup dry white wine
9 cups vegetable broth
4 cups diced green cabbage
2 cups diced zucchini
3/4 cup small pasta
3 cups packed, coarsely chopped fresh spinach
1/3 cup thinly sliced fresh basil
freshly grated Parmesan cheese

preparation

Combine celery, onion, leek and wine in heavy large pot over medium heat.
Simmer until vegetables are tender but not brown, stirring frequently, about 12 minutes.
Add broth and bring to boil. Add cabbage and zucchini and simmer 10 minutes. Add pasta; cover and simmer until pasta is just tender. Add spinach and cook 5 minutes.
Stir in sliced basil. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Ladle soup into bowls.
Pass Parmesan cheese separately.

Mixed cabbage salad

Serves: 8

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

3 cups shredded Chinese cabbage
3 cups shredded red cabbage
1 small chopped white onion
2 medium grated carrots
1 small grated white radish
1/2 cup alfalfa sprouts

dressing:
1/2 cup canola oil
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 clove minced garlic
1 teaspoon soy sauce
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

preparation

In two separate salad bowls, mix 1/2 of the onion with Chinese cabbage and the other 1/2 with red cabbage.
For dressing:
In a mixing bowl, whisk the oil, mayonnaise, garlic, soy sauce and vinegar.
Pour some of the dressing over each cabbage. Toss and arrange separately on serving platter.
Top with remaining vegetables. Serve with dressing.

Moqueca seafood stew

Serves: 4

Preparation time:20 minutes

Cooking time:20 minutes

Moqueca is an Angolan and Brazilian seafood stew. Moqueca is typically made with shrimp or white fish as a base with tomatoes, onions, garlic, lime and coriander.

Ingredients

3 tablespoons Olive oil
1/2 cup yellow onion diced
1 jalapeno diced
1 medium red bell pepper seeds removed and sliced
1 medium yellow bell pepper seeds removed and sliced
2 cloves garlic finely chopped
1 teaspoon sweet paprika
¼ teaspoon cayenne
1 teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
2 pounds cod or other firm white fish, cut into large 1-2 inch pieces
1 13 ounce can chopped tomatoes
1 tablespoon tomato paste
2 cups seafood stock or vegetable stock
13 ounce can coconut milk full fat
1 lime zested + lime cut into wedges
2 green onions chopped, for garnish

Brazilian Rice
2 tablespoons Olive oil
1/2 cup yellow onion diced
1 garlic clove finely chopped
1 cup jasmine rice washed and rinsed
2 cups vegetable stock
½ teaspoon kosher salt to taste

preparation

Bring a large pot top medium heat and add the olive oil,the chopped onion and jalapeño and saute for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the sliced bell peppers and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
Add the chopped garlic, paprika and cayenne and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
Add chopped tomatoes with their juices, tomato paste and stir everything together and cooking for another 2-3 minutes.
Season the fish with salt and pepper and place the fish on top of the vegetables.
Pour the coconut milk and seafood stock into the pot and add the lime zest and season with salt and pepper. Gently mix the content.
Cover the pot. Over low heat, cook the moqueca for 10-15 minutes until the fish is just cooked through and soup has reduced slightly.
Remove moqueca from the heat and taste for seasoning. Serve moqueca on top of cooked jasmine rice and garnish with green onions and lime wedges.

Brazilian Rice

Bring a small pot to medium heat and add olive oil, chopped onion and saute until lightly caramelized, about 3-5 minutes.
Add the jasmine rice and saute so all of the rice is coated with oil.
Pour in the vegetable stock and season with salt and pepper. Bring the rice to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer and cover with a lid. Continue cooking the rice for about 20 minutes, until the liquid has evaporated.
When cooked, fluff the rice with a fork and serve with moqueca.

Mousse of smoked salmon

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 30 minutes

Cooking time:10 minutes

Ingredients

for the smoked salmon mousse:
1 cup aspic jelly prepared with instant jelly powder
8 slices black winter truffle
5 ounces smoked salmon
1 tablespoon mayonnaise
1 tablespoon unflavored gelatin
1/4 cup cold water
1/2 cup heavy whipped cream
4 ounces salmon caviar

preparation

Line a decorative mold with aspic jelly and decorate with truffle circles.
Cut the smoked salmon into pieces and puree in a food processor with mayonnaise. Dissolve gelatin in water. Allow to set for 5 minutes. Heat to melt gelatin and add to mixture while machine is working.
Fold in whipped cream.
Adjust seasoning, and pour into a mold. Mold should be half filled with smoked salmon mousse. Place a layer of caviar over salmon mousse.
Prepare trout mousse, following the same procedure.
Place on top of salmon mousse and caviar and chill until set.
PRESENTATION
Dip the mold in warm water. Invert onto a cold round serving tray. Decorate with chopped aspic jelly. Serve cold.

Mussel and cauliflower velouté

Serves: 8

Preparation time: 35 minutes

Cooking time:40 minutes

A recipe by Chef Daniel Boulud

Ingredients

3 lbs fresh mussels
3 tablespoons (42g) butter
3 cups (about 2 small/100g each) sliced onions
2 sprigs thyme
3 cloves garlic, peeled and sliced
2 bay leaves
1 ½ quarts (1.5L) vegetable or Chicken Stock
2 cups (480ml) dry white wine
½ tablespoon (0.25g) saffron threads
2 heads (3lb/1.3kg) cauliflower, woody stems removed, cut into small florets
1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
1 cup (240g) crème fraîche
Salt and freshly ground white pepper
2 cups ¼-inch (0.5cm) cubed white bread, toasted
½ bunch chives, cut in batons

preparation

Discard any mussels that are cracked or open and will not close with a tap on the counter.
Place the rest in a large container and cover with cold water for 20 minutes to filter out any sand. Lift the mussels from the water, leaving all the sand behind. Remove the beards by grasping them with a dry towel and pulling toward the hinges of the shells. Scrub the mussels under cold running water.
Heat 1 tablespoon (14g) of the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add half of the onions, thyme, garlic, and bay leaves and cook, stirring, for 3 minutes.
Add 2 cups (480ml) of the stock and the wine and bring to a boil. Toss in the mussels, cover, and simmer until the mussels open. Drain the mussels through a cheesecloth-lined colander set over a bowl and reserve the liquid for the soup.
Pick the mussels from the shells, place in a shallow container, and cover with enough cooking liquid to keep them moist. (At this point the mussels and cooking liquid can be reserved, chilled, overnight.)
In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons (28g) butter over medium heat. Add the remaining onion, thyme, garlic, and bay leaf and the saffron threads and cook, stirring, until the onions are translucent.
Add the cauliflower and cook, stirring, for another 5 minutes. Add the reserved cooking liquid and the remaining chicken stock. Simmer, stirring occasionally, for 30 minutes, or until the cauliflower is very tender. Add the heavy cream and crème fraîche and bring to a simmer. Discard the bay leaf and thyme and transfer the mixture to a blender (you will need to do this in batches). Puree until smooth and season with salt and pepper. Return to the pan, bring to a simmer, and stir in the mussels just before serving.
Serve, garnishing with the toasted bread and chives.

Mussel and scallop soup

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:20 minutes

Ingredients

2 pounds mussels
2 cups white wine
1 teaspoon shallots, chopped
1 teaspoon saffron
1 tablespoon chopped parsley
2 cups chicken broth
2 teaspoons butter
2 teaspoons flour
1 cup cream
salt and white pepper to taste

8 ounces scallops
1 ounce butter
1 teaspoon lemon juice

preparation

Scrub mussels under cold running water. Heat wine in a large pot. Add mussels. Cover pot and steam for about 5 minutes, or until mussels are opened.
Strain cooking liquid through cheese cloth. Save. Remove mussels from shells. Reserve for garnish.
In a medium saucepan, add mussel broth, shallots, onion, saffron, parsley and chicken broth. Simmer for 10 minutes. Combine butter and flour to a paste.
Whip in the cooking liquid to thicken. Add cream and seasoning. Add mussels.
Saute scallops in butter and lemon juice until transparent. Dice the scallops and cooking liquid to soup together with mussels.
Heat soup and serve hot.

Mussel pasta salad

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:20 minutes

Ingredients

Serves 6

3 pounds mussels
1/2 cup dry white wine
1/2 pound fettuccine
6 large celery stalks, diced
2 tablespoons chopped parsley
1 tablespoon fresh basil
1 teaspoon fresh chives
1/2 cup aioli sauce
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon white pepper
2 large Italian tomatoes, peeled and diced

preparation

Combine mussels and wine in heavy medium saucepan. Cover and cook over high heat, shaking pan occasionally, until mussels open. Remove mussels using slotted spoon. (Discard any that do not open.)
Let cooking liquid stand 15 minutes. Shell mussels. Strain cooking liquid through fine sieve lined with dampened cheesecloth. Gradually whish cooking liquid into aioli.
Cook fettuccini in salted boiling water according to directions. Drain and cool. Combine fettuccine, celery, herbs and aioli in a bowl.
Toss until blended. Season with salt and pepper. Gently stir in mussels and tomatoes. Serve salad at room temperature.

Mussel soup trois gros

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 30 minutes

Cooking time:25 minutes

Ingredients

4 pounds fresh mussels
1/2 cup dry white wine
1 tablespoon chopped shallots
1/4 cup olive oil
5 ounces diced carrots
5 ounces chopped onion
2 medium leek whites, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 ounces tomatoes, peeled, seeded, and chopped
1/2 teaspoon saffron
1 quart fish fumet
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 teaspoon thyme
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon white pepper

preparation

Wash and scrub mussels, remove beards, and discard dead open mussels.
In a heavy, deep pot, combine the wine and shallots. Bring to a boil. Add the mussels, cover the pot, and steam until all mussels are open, tossing occasionally. Strain cooking liquid.
Take mussels out of shells. In the same pot, heat the oil. Add the mirepoix (carrots, onion, leeks)and simmer for 5 minutes. Add the garlic, chopped tomatoes, and saffron.
Pour in the fish fumet and mussel cooking liquid. Bring to a boil and simmer for 30 to 40 minutes.
Before serving, stir the cream, mussels, and thyme into the soup. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Mussels and spaghetti

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:30 minutes

Ingredients

3 pounds fresh mussels
1 bay leaf
6 peppercorns
2 whole cloves
1/4 cup dry white wine
3 quarts water
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 pound spaghetti
4 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon garlic, minced
1 cup stewed tomatoes
1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon white pepper

preparation

Scrub mussels under cold water. Remove beards and drain. In a large saucepan or kettle add mussels, bay leaf, peppercorns, cloves, and wine. Cover and bring to a boil. Cook over high heat until mussels open, 4 to 6 minutes. Strain mussels. Remove from shells. Save broth.
Cook spaghetti in boiling water for 6 minutes. Drain. Heat oil in a large skillet. Add garlic and cook briefly, stirring, but do not brown.
Add tomatoes, broth and spaghetti. Cook, stirring often until spaghetti are done. Add mussels. Stir and heat for a moment. Add basil and season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss and serve hot.

Mussels in mustard sauce

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

2 pounds cooked mussels on half shell
5 ounces mayonnaise
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon chopped chives

preparation

Arrange the cooked mussels on a serving dish. Refrigerate. Combine mayonnaise, mustard, lemon juice and chives.
Pour sauce over the mussels. Serve cold

Mussels mariniere

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:15 minutes

the national dish of Belgium! Mussels or moules are usually cooked or steamed and served with frites-Fench fries.

Ingredients

5 pounds fresh mussels
2 ounces butter
2 ounces chopped shallots
2 tablespoons chopped parsley
1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper
1 1/2 cups dry white wine

preparation

Clean and wash mussels under cold running water and debeard.
Heat the butter in a kettle. Add shallots and cook for 5 minutes. Add half of the parsley, pepper, wine, and mussels.
Cover and steam until mussels open.
Serve in soup bowls with the strained cooking liquid. Sprinkle with remaining chopped parsley.

Mussels with leeks saffron and cream

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 25 minutes

Cooking time:30 minutes

Ingredients

2 tablespoons butter
2 large leeks, washed and thinly sliced
4 dozens mussels, scrubbed, debearded
1 cup dry white wine
8 parsley sprigs
10 saffron threads, crushed
1/2 cup whipping cream
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, minced

preparation

Melt butter in large heavy deep skillet. Add leeks and saute until tender.
Combine mussels, wine and parsley sprigs in Dutch oven. Cover and cook over high heat until mussels open. Transfer mussels to a bowl, discarding any that do not open.
Strain mussel juice into skillet containing leeks. Add saffron and cream; boil until reduced to sauce consistency. Stir in minced parsley. Season with salt and pepper.
Add mussels and any remaining juices to skillet. Stir and heat through.

Nasi goreng

Serves: 3

Preparation time:20 minutes

Cooking time:10 minutes

The literal translation of Nasi Goreng is “fried rice” in Indonesian and Malaysian – and that’s exactly what it is! It’s mainly rice with just a little bit of meat and just onion for the vegetables.
Recipe inspired by PAT TANUMIHARDJA

Ingredients

For the Spice Paste:
2 small shallots (2 ounces; 55g), roughly chopped
3 medium cloves garlic
1 large fresh green chili, such as Fresno or Holland, stemmed and seeded, or 1 teaspoon sambal oelek, such as Huy Fong (see note)
1/2 teaspoon terasi(Indonesian shrimp paste), optional

For the Nasi Goreng:
4 cups cold cooked jasmine rice (21 ounces; 600g) or other medium- to long-grain rice (see note)
2 tablespoons (30ml) neutral oil, such as canola or sunflower oil
2 tablespoons (30ml) kecap manis (see note), plus more for drizzling
2 teaspoons (10ml) soy sauce
Kosher salt
Ground white pepper
To Serve:
2 fried eggs, cooked sunny-side up or over easy
Sliced cucumbers (optional)
Sliced tomatoes (optional)
Fried shallots (optional)

preparation

1. For the Spice Paste: Add half the shallots to a mortar and grind with the pestle until a coarse purée forms. Add remaining shallots, followed by garlic, chili, and terasi (if using), grinding with the pestle until each ingredient is mostly incorporated before adding the next. The final paste should resemble thick oatmeal in texture. Alternatively, combine all spice paste ingredients in a small food processor and process until they form a paste.
2. For the Nasi Goreng: If using day-old rice, transfer rice to a bowl and break rice up with your hands into individual grains.
3. Heat oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat until shimmering. Add spice paste and cook, stirring constantly and scraping the bottom of the wok or pan to prevent the paste from burning, until a pungent smell permeates your kitchen and the paste turns a few shades darker, 2 to 3 minutes. Reduce heat to medium at any time if the paste appears to be browning too quickly.
4. Add rice to the wok and stir to coat with the spice paste. Add kecap manis and soy sauce. Stir and cook until rice is evenly colored and hot throughout. Season with salt and white pepper.
5. Divide rice between two plates and top each plate of rice with a fried egg. Garnish with cucumber and tomato slices and shower with fried shallots, if you like. Serve immediately with kecap manis alongside for drizzling.
Notes:
Sambal oelek is an Indonesian chili paste, traditionally made with nothing more than hot red chilies and salt. You can find it at Asian markets or in the "international" aisle of some supermarkets.
Kecap manis is Indonesian sweet soy sauce, typically made by combining soy sauce with palm sugar.

Niçoise salad

Serves: 2

Preparation time:20 minutes

Cooking time:15 minutes

The 19th century century Niçoise salad recipe as it is kept in the archives in Nice, France consists of local ingredients:
Tomatoes, Broad beans and/or small purple artichokes hearts, green Onions or radishes, local summer peppers, Basil, Anchovy, Nice black olives (small and specific to the region), Olive oil, Garlic, Salt pepper

Ingredients

For the Dressing

3 tablespoons white wine vinegar
1-1/2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
1/8 teaspoon onion powder
1/8 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/3 cup olive oil

For the Salad

2 small red potatoes
1/2 cup cut fresh green beans
3-1/2 cups torn Bibb lettuce, washed and spun dry
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved or a summer red tomato, cut into small wedges
10 Nicoise olives, pitted
2 hard-boiled large eggs, quartered
1 (5-ounce) can albacore, drained and flaked

preparation

To make the dressing, combine the white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, onion powder, salt and pepper in a small bowl. Add the olive oil in a slow, steady stream, whisking as you go. Set the dressing aside.

Cook the vegetables on the stovetop. For the potatoes, place the whole red potatoes in a small saucepan and cover them with cold water. Bring the water to a boil. Then, reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pot. Cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15 to 20 minutes. Drain and discard the cooking water and let the potatoes cool before cutting them into quarters.

For the green beans, blanching is best. Bring a small saucepan of salted water to a boil. When the water is boiling, add the green beans and cook for about 3 minutes, until they’re tender-crisp. Remove the beans to a bowl of ice water to cool them down.

Divide the lettuce between two salad bowls. Top each plate with half of the potatoes, beans, tomatoes, olives, hard-boiled eggs and tuna. Drizzle the salads with dressing and serve any extra dressing on the side.

Chef's notes:
The 19th century century Niçoise salad recipe as it is kept in the archives in Nice, France consists of local ingredients:
Tomatoes, Broad beans and/or small purple artichokes hearts, green Onions or radishes, local summer peppers, Basil, Anchovy, Nice black olives (small and specific to the region), Olive oil, Garlic, Salt pepper
If we want to respect in an orthodox way the model of the Nicoise salad, we should not add anything more. Forget about the grilled tuna, it was a rich thing back then, nobody ate that. You'll also notice there's no egg: at that time, the Nicoise salad was really all raw - or at least, as far as anchovies and olives go, fermented, but not cooked.
Dressing the salad: Traditionally, the Niçoise salad is laid out flat, so that all the ingredients are visible and well distributed. You should therefore take a large, slightly deep plate rather than a salad bowl.
The local garlic, which is pink, will be used to rub the plate to flavor it. Do not put the minced garlic cloves directly in the salad, it would be too strong. Place the tomatoes in quarters first, then add all the other ingredients on top and drizzle with a little olive oil (and red wine vinegar if you like). A little salt if necessary and a turn of the pepper mill, a few chopped basil leaves, and it's ready.

Nowadays, Niçoise salad has become a mix of various colorful ingredients consisting of potatoes, black olives, green beans, artichokes hearts, green onions, radishes, cucumbers, peppers, anchovies and vinaigrette dressing. Hard boiled eggs , tuna, (canned or fresh broiled and sliced) , grilled salmon pieces, or chicken are often the main proteins in the recipe.
Some people say the salad is served on a bed of lettuce and others say that tomatoes are the base. And some do not arrange the elements of the salad at all, but just toss it all together.

Nicoise orzo salad

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:25 minutes

Ingredients

1 cup long grain orzo
1/2 pound green beans cut into 1/2-inch pieces

For dressing:
3 teaspoons red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon lemon juice
4 anchovy fillets, chopped
1 teaspoon dijon mustard
1 garlic clove, minced
1/3 cup virgin olive oil
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

6 ounce jar artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
7 ounce can tuna, drained, flaked
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1/2 cup chopped red onion
1 1/2 teaspoons minced fresh thyme leaves
1/3 cup kalamata or brined-cured black olives, chopped
2 cups chopped arugala, washed and spun dry

preparation

Cook orzo in salted boiling water until tender. Drain in a colander, and rinse under cold water. Drain again.
Transfer to a large bowl. Cook beans in salted boiling water until crisp-tender. Cool and drain. Add to orzo.
In a blender, combine Red wine vinegar, Lemon juice, anchovy fillets, Dijon mustard, garlic clove, olive oil, and pepper. Blend until dressing is smooth. Add dressing to orzo mixture. Blend in the remaining ingredients. Serve as a main course.

Orzo pilaf with green onions

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 10 minutes

Cooking time:20 minutes

Ingredients

3 1/4 cups low salt chicken broth
1 pound orzo
5 green onions, thinly sliced
3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

preparation

Bring broth to boil in heavy large saucepan over medium-high heat. Mix in orzo and simmer uncovered until just tender but still firm to bite and some broth still remains, stirring occasionally.
Remove from heat. Add green onions and cheese and stir to blend. Season pilaf to taste with salt and pepper.
Rewarm over low heat, if necessary, and mix in more broth by 1/4 cupfuls if pilaf is dry. Transfer to large bowl and serve.

Orzo salad with lemon and herb

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 10 minutes

Cooking time:15 minutes

Ingredients

1 cup orzo pasta
2 tablespoons chopped dill
2 tablespoons chopped parsley
2 tablespoons chopped green onion
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon grated lemon rind
1 2 tablespoon lemon juice
salt and pepper

preparation

In large pot of boiling salted water, cook orzo until tender but firm; drain well.
Toss with dill, parsley, onions, oil, lemon rind and juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Oven dried tomato and black olive tians

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 30 minutes

Cooking time:1 hour 30 minutes

Ingredients

12 ripe Italian tomatoes
4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
4 ounces Kalamata olives, pitted
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, minced
1 tablespoon wine vinegar
salt and freshly ground black pepper

preparation

Blanch the tomatoes in salted boiling water, remove, and shock in ice water. Peel the tomatoes and reserve the peel for the fried garnish.
Cut each tomato into four pieces and remove the inner seed core. Season the tomatoes with salt, pepper, and extra virgin olive oil.
Place the tomato slices on a rack, and bake for 1 hour in a 250 degree F oven.
Remove the tomatoes from the oven and cool. When the tomatoes are cool, finely dice them and place on paper towels to dry.
When drained, season the tomatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper and fresh thyme and wine vinegar.
In a food processor, add the Kalamata olives and puree to a paste. Remove and set aside.
Place a layer of the tomato mixture into a 1-inch round ring mold and pack down. Place a very thin layer of black olive paste into the mold and pack down. Repeat 10 times.
Finish with 1 more layer of tomato and pack down. Just before you are ready to serve, heat the tians through in a 300 degree F. oven.

Preheat a fryer to 300 degrees F. Blot the reserved tomato skins with paper towels to dry them of any moisture.
Place the skins in the oil and fry just until the water comes out and the skins are crisp and golden. Do not brown skins.
Remove from the molds onto plates and top with fried tomato skins.

Paella of mussels

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:40 minutes

Use frégola or risotto instead of rice for another interesting creation

Ingredients

3 pounds fresh mussels
1 medium chopped onion
2 cloves minced garlic
1/4 cup olive oil
1 1/2 cups rice
1/2 teaspoon saffron
1 medium sliced red pepper

preparation

Clean and scrub mussels.
Steam in a kettle containing a small amount of water until mussels are opened.
Drain them and retain the cooking liquid. Remove top shells of mussels. In a medium kettle, brown the onion and garlic in oil. Stir in the rice and saffron.
Pour the strained cooking liquid and water over rice, to make 3 1/2 cups. Stir in the red pepper.
Bake covered at 350 degrees F (180 C) for 10 minutes. Add mussels in their half shells and combine with the rice. Continue baking for 10 more minutes or until rice is done.
Serve the paella in a preheated casserole dish.

Pan-smoked salmon

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 3 hours

Cooking time:15 minutes

This is a home-made hot smoked salmon that gives great results. Use a 10 to 11 inch round cast-iron skillet, a round wire cake rack with 1 inch high feet to sit in the bottom of the skillet.

Ingredients

2 teaspoons sugar
1 teaspoon coarse salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
4 4-ounce salmon fillets
1 tablespoon wood chips
1 teaspoon olive oil

preparation

In a small bowl, combine the sugar, salt, and pepper.
Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish, and sprinkle the mixture over each fillet. Turn the fillets over. Cover dish with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 1 to 3 hours.
Line a 10-inch round cast-iron skillet with aluminum foil.
Cut a 2-inch hole in the center where the wood chips will be placed in direct contact with the bottom of the skillet.
Heat the skillet over high heat until very hot, about 3 to 5 minutes.
Line a heavy lid to fit the skillet. Brush the salmon fillets with the olive oil.
Arrange the wood chips in center of hot pan. Place a wire rack with 1-inch high feet in the hot skillet.
Arrange the salmon fillets on the rack. Cover tightly. Reduce the heat to medium. Smoke the salmon fillets for about 10 minutes.
Test the inside of fillets for doneness.
Serve at once or refrigerate and serve cold.

Panzanella salad

Serves: 4

Preparation time:15 minutes

Cooking time:10 minutes

Panzanella salad, the perfect way to use up day-old bread!
People of the Mediterranean have a knack for using day-old stale bread.

Panzanella salad consists of hearty Italian bread, tomatoes, shallots and basil, tossed in a light and tangy dressing. If you like, add fresh mozzarella cheese.

Ingredients

5 oz or ½ loaf of a rustic Italian bread or baguette, preferably stale cut into 1-inch cubes (about 3 cups)
6 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, more to taste
1/2 teaspoon sea salt, more to taste
2 pounds very ripe tomatoes, preferably a mix of varieties and colors
1/4 cup red wine vinegar
2 garlic cloves minced
1/2 tsp Dijon mustard
Black pepper
1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion or shallot
1/2 cup packed fresh basil torn

preparation

Heat oven to 425 degrees. Spread the bread cubes on a rimmed baking sheet and toss with 2 tablespoons oil. Bake until they are golden brown at the edges, about 7 to 15 minutes. Let cool on a wire rack.

Cut tomatoes into bite-size pieces and transfer to a large bowl. Add onions, garlic, 1 tablespoon vinegar, 1/4 teaspoon salt. Toss to coat and set aside.

In a medium bowl, combine remaining 1 tablespoon vinegar, the mustard, 1/4 teaspoon salt and some black pepper to taste. While whisking constantly, slowly drizzle in the remaining 4 tablespoons olive oil until the mixture is thickened. Stir in basil.
Add bread cubes to the tomatoes and toss well. Let sit for at least 30 minutes before serving. Toss with a little more olive oil, vinegar and salt if needed just before serving.

Parmesan and basil chicken salad

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:40 minutes

Ingredients

2 whole chicken breasts, on the bone, with the skin
salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil

1 cup mayonnaise
1 cup fresh basil, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
2 tablespoons pine nuts
4 large celery ribs, peeled and coarsely chopped
2/3 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
1 bunch of watercress, large stems removed

preparation

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Place in a skillet with oil and roast until juices run clear, about 35 minutes. Let cool. Discard the chicken skin and remove the meat from the bones. Cut the chicken into small strips and transfer to a large bowl.
Puree the mayonnaise, basil, garlic and pine nuts. Add to the chicken with celery and cheese and toss well.
Season with salt and pepper and serve with watercress or arugula.

Pasta and tuna with caper dressing

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Cooking time:20 minutes

Ingredients

12 ounces pasta shells
8 ounces can white tuna
1 medium red pepper, thinly sliced
8 ounces broccoli florets
1/2 cup grated parmesan
1/4 cup shredded basil

For caper dressing:
1/2 cup olive oil
3 teaspoons red wine vinegar
2 teaspoons drained capers
1 teaspoon dried oregano
2 cloves minced garlic
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper

preparation

Cook pasta until al dente, drain, rinse under cold water until chilled, drain well.
Drop broccoli florets into boiling salted water and cook for 2 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking; drain well again. Flake the tuna.
Combine with pasta, broccoli and pepper. Blend in dressing and remaining ingredients.
Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Caper dressing :
Combine all ingredients in a mixing bowl. Stir to blend

Pasta e fagioli with pesto and butternut squash

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:30 minutes

Wonderful, hearty soup.
a recipe inspired by finecooking.com

Ingredients

6 oz. orrechiette or small shells, or other small pasta
2 Tbs. extra-virgin olive oil
1 cup chopped yellow onion
2-1/2 cups diced (1/2 to 3/4 inch) butternut squash
2 Tbs. chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
1 Tbs. chopped fresh sage
2 medium cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
2 Tbs. tomato paste
1/2 cup dry white wine
4 cups vegetable broth
1 15-oz. can kidney beans (white or red), or Roman beans, rinsed and drained (1-3/4 cups)
1 14-oz. can crushed peeled tomatoes with juice
Freshly ground black pepper

For the pesto:
1 packed cup fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves, coarsely chopped
2 Tbsp coarsely chopped fresh sage
1 medium clove garlic, chopped
1/2 cup Parmigiano-Reggiano or Grana Padano, coarsely grated; more, finely grated, for serving
Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
6 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

preparation

Make the soup
Bring a large pot of water to a boil, and cook the pasta according to package directions until not quite al dente.
Meanwhile, heat the oil in a 5- to 6-quart Dutch oven or other heavy-duty pot over medium heat until shimmering. Add the onion and 1/4 tsp. salt; cook, stirring occasionally, until starting to brown, 3 to 5 minutes. Add the squash and stir to coat with the oil. Add the parsley, sage, garlic, and pepper flakes, and cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
Add the tomato paste and cook, stirring, until it is evenly distributed and looks slightly darker, 1 to 2 minutes. Add the wine and cook until almost evaporated, about 1 minute. Add the broth, beans, and tomatoes. Stir well, scraping the bottom of the pot, and simmer until the squash is barely tender, 13 to 15 minutes. Add the pasta and continue simmering until the squash and pasta are tender, 1 to 2 minutes. Remove from the heat.
Make the pesto and serve
Put the parsley, sage, garlic, and coarsely grated cheese in a food processor. Sprinkle with 1/4 tsp. salt and 1/4 tsp. pepper and drizzle with the oil. Pulse until finely chopped, adding more oil if necessary to give it consistency. Season to taste with salt and pepper, and transfer to a bowl.
Thin the soup with water if desired and add 1/4 tsp. pepper. Season to taste with more salt and pepper. Divide among soup bowls and spoon 1 to 2 Tbsp pesto on top of each serving. Pass the finely grated cheese at the table.

Pasta fagioli

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:2 hours 30 minutes

To expedite the recipe use cooked Italian white beans.

Ingredients

2 cups dried white bean
1 medium diced onion
1 large carrot, diced
2 celery ribs
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 quarts chicken stock
3/4 pound small orecchiette or small macaroni
Italian parsley,chopped

optional condiments:
2 cups stemmed arugala
4 plum tomatoes
2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil
2 teaspoons red wine vinegar
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
French baguette, sliced
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan

preparation

Soak beans overnight.
In a saucepan sauté diced onion, carrot, and diced celery ribs in 1 tablespoon olive oil until soft.
Add beans, chicken stock, and 3 quarts water. Simmer until beans are soft. 1-1/2 hours to 2 hours.
Season with salt and pepper. Add small orecchiette or small macaroni. Cook until al dente.
Before serving, add chopped Italian parsley.
Condiments :
Cut stemmed arugala into 1/4 inch wide strips, set aside in a bowl. Peel, seed, and dice plum tomatoes, set aside in a bowl.
Also pass extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, and kosher salt with soup, and serve condiments with thin sliced of French baguette, brushed with olive oil and toasted, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

Pasta roll with three cheese

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 30 minutes

Cooking time:25 minutes

Ingredients

2 teaspoons butter
4 medium minced scallions
1/2 cup minced smoked ham
6 ounces soft cream cheese
1/2 cup firm ricotta cheese
1/2 cup grated parmesan
2 eggs
1/2 teaspoon black ground pepper
1-12-inch by 14-inch sheet of pasta
6 thin slices ham
1 1/2 cups marinara sauce

preparation

Melt butter in a skillet. Add scallions, and cook over low heat until soft. Combine minced ham, three cheeses, eggs, and scallion. Season with pepper.
Lay the sheet of pasta roll on a sheet pan. Spread one half of cheese mixture over surface of pasta roll.
Cover cheese with the sliced ham. Spread remaining cheese over ham. Roll up pasta, jelly roll style.
Do not roll loosely to avoid water seepage while cooking. Roll pasta in cheese cloth.
Tie each end with string. Poach in boiling water for 25 min. Drain, cool.
Remove cheese cloth. Slice into 1 inch slices. Arrange on hot plate. Serve with marinara.

Pasta salad in parmesan baskets

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:20 minutes

Ingredients

4 large green apples, peeled and diced
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 cups apple cider
1 cup parmigiano-reggiano cheese, grated
2 cups shelled walnuts, 1 cup lightly toasted 1 cup ground fine
2 ounces balsamic vinegar
2 ounces olive oil
kosher salt
black pepper
1 pound arugula, washed and trimmed
1/2 pound red seedless grapes
1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion, soaked in balsamic vinegar
1/2 pound orecciette or shells pasta, cooked, cooled and oiled
4 ounces gorgonzola cheese, crumbled

preparation

Salad:
Set aside a little more than 1/2 of apples in bowl with water and lemon juice.
Place remaining apples in small saucepan with cider.
Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until apples are tender. Remove apples from heat, strain (reserving cider) and purée.

Dressing:
Combine 4 ounces of purée with oil and vinegar. Add salt, pepper and about 2 ounces reserved cider to taste.
Drain remaing apples and toss together with walnuts, pasta, grapes, arugula, onions and dressing. Serve salad in baskets and top with gorgonzola.

Baskets:
Place a non-stick 9"sauté pan over low heat. Sprinkle bottom of pan with 1/4 cup Parmigiano to cover surface (cheese will melt), then with 1/4 cup ground walnuts.
When edges of crêpes are golden brown, peel away from pan with rubber spatula and invert slowly into 6-7" bowl to form basket.
If it tears, place back in pan with a bit more cheese to seal. Basket will crisp within seconds. Repeat to make 4 baskets.

Pasta salad with tuna and greek olives

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 10 minutes

Cooking time:12 minutes

Ingredients

12 ounces rigatoni, penne, or other short pasta
1 7-ounce can tuna in oil, preferably olive, drained
1/2 pound large black greek olives in brine, drained
1/2 pound cherry tomatoes, cut in half
1/2 cup olive oil
4 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
2 teaspoons drained capers
salt and pepper to taste

preparation

Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente.
Drain, rinse under cold water until chilled, drain well and toss with one tablespoon oil.
Pit and chop olives; break tuna into chunks. Put olives, tuna, capers, lemon juice, and olive oil into small bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well.
In large serving bowl, toss pasta, tuna and oil mixture, and tomatoes. Adjust seasonings. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Pasta with broccoli and garbanzo beans

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:15 minutes

Ingredients

4 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons minced garlic
1 1/2 cups dry white wine
2 15-ounce cans garbanzo beans, rinsed and drained
pinch of dried crushed red pepper
12 ounces small shell pasta
6 cups broccoli florets
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

preparation

Heat oil over medium high heat in heavy large skillet. Add garlic; sauté 1 minute. Add wine, beans and crushed red pepper, cook until sauce thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.
Cook pasta in boiling salted water until almost tender. Add broccoli and cook until broccoli is crisp-tender and pasta is tender, about 3 minutes. Drain.
Add pasta, broccoli and cheese to sauce in skillet and toss until coated. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Pasta with summer vegetables

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Cooking time:20 minutes

Ingredients

1 pound fusilli or rotini
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cups small zucchini (quartered lengthwise and sliced)
1 clove garlic, minced
4 cups chopped tomatoes
1/4 cup white wine
1/3 cup chopped fresh basil
1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
1/4 cup chopped flat leaf parsley
2 tablespoons chopped fresh marjoram
salt and pepper to taste
freshly grated Parmesan cheese

preparation

Cook pasta in salted boiling water until tender but firm; drain and keep hot.
Meanwhile, in large skillet over medium heat, heat oil. Add zucchini and garlic; cook for 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
Add tomatoes and wine, cook, stirring frequently, for 5 minutes or until sauce thickens.
Stir in herbs; simmer for 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Toss sauce with hot pasta. Serve immediately, with Parmesan cheese for sprinkling on top.

Pickled herring and potato salad

Serves: 4

Preparation time:10 minutes

Cooking time:20 minutes

For many Finns, nothing is better than a very simple Uudet perunat ja silli (spring potatoes and pickled herring), yet tasty dish of boiled new potatoes eaten with pickled herring, a pat of butter and a sprig of fresh dill.

Ingredients

3 tbsp (45ml) Extra Virgin Olive Oil
2 tbsp lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp fresh chopped parsley
1 tbsp chopped fresh dill
1 cup red onion, peeled and thinly sliced

1 lb small new potatoes
1 tbsp salt

About 20-25 chunks pickled herring (4 rollmops, chopped in large chunks)

preparation

1 - In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, salt and pepper. Whisk vigorously to blend and emulsify. Add Dijon mustard, chopped parsley, chopped dill and red onion. Toss to combine. Cover the bowl with plastic film and refrigerate for at 30 minutes.

2 - Place the potatoes (peeled or unpeeled) in a large pot and cover by an inch of water. Add 1 tbsp of salt and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Once the water is boiling, reduce the heat to medium and simmer for about 15 minutes until you can easily poke a knife into the potatoes. Drain immediately into a colander/strainer and allow to cool. The potatoes should be warm to the touch.

3 - Slice the potatoes into 1 inch thick slices and arrange in 4 individual plates. Place 4-5 pieces of herring on top (per person) and drizzle generously with the vinaigrette. Serve immediately.

Pizza margherita

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Cooking time:12 minutes

This is the simple classic pizza If you can't find buffalo mozzarella just use a good quality cow's milk mozzarella.
Also to speed up the prep time, simply use store bought marinara sauce.

Ingredients

Dough
1 envelope (1/4-ounce) active dry yeast
1 teaspoon sugar (5 ml)
⅓ cup lukewarm water (75 ml)
1 ⅓ cups lukewarm water (325 ml)
2 teaspoons coarse salt (10 ml)
¼ cup oilve oil (60 ml)
3 ¾ cups all-purpose flour (925 ml)
flour for kneading and rolling
olive oil for oiling the bowl (15 ml)

Sauce
3 tablespoons olive oil (45 ml)
1 cloves garlic, chopped
2 28 ounce cans whole plum tomatoes, preferably San Marzano tomatoes (1592 ml)
Coarse salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

Toppings
4 balls buffalo mozzarella, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds (about 1 pound/454 grams)
1 small bunch fresh basil leaves, shredded (roughly 24 basil leaves)
Coarse salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
pinch red chile flakes, optional
olive oil, for drizzling on the pizza

preparation

Dough
In a small bowl, add 1/3 cup lukewarm water and 1 tsp. sugar. Add yeast and let sit until foamy, about 5 to 10 minutes.

Combine 3 ¾ all-purpose flour and salt in the bowl of a stand mixer. In a stand mixer fitted with a dough blade, add water, olive and yeast mixture and blend. Knead on low speed for about 10 to 12 minutes until the dough comes together and is smooth. Remove dough from the bowl. Turn dough onto a well-floured surface and continue knead by hand until smooth and elastic, about 2 to 5 minutes. The dough should be soft but not sticky. If dough is still too sticky, add a little more flour. Place the dough in a lightly oiled medium bowl and cover. Let rest in a warm spot until doubled, about 45 to 60 minutes.

Sauce
Drain the tomatoes in a strainer to remove excess liquid. Process the tomatoes in a food mill over a medium bowl. Discard excess liquid or keep to make a soup.

Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan on medium-low heat. Add the garlic and sauté 2 minutes or until softened. Add tomatoes and simmer for 10 minutes. Season the sauce with salt and pepper. Set sauce aside. Let cool to room temperature.

Toppings
Preheat oven to 500 degrees F.

Place a pizza stone on the bottom rack of oven when oven begins to preheat. Heat according to manufacturer’s directions.

Punch down dough. Divide dough into 4 balls. Using your hands, stretch and pull (or alternatively roll with a rolling pin) each ball of dough into 10 to 12-inch rounds depending on how thin you want your crust.

Sprinkle some flour onto a pizza paddle (if you don’t have a paddle, you can sprinkle flour on pizza pans or baking sheets). Place a round of dough onto the pizza paddle or pan. Evenly spoon over tomato sauce and basil and cheese. Season the pizzas with salt and pepper and chile flakes, if desired. Drizzle with olive oil. Transfer the pizza to the preheated pizza stone. Bake until topping is bubbly and crust is golden brown, about 8 to 10 minutes. Repeat with remaining rounds of dough.

Polenta a la romaine

Serves: 8

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:30 minutes

Ingredients

1 quart milk
3 ounces butter
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper
1/4 teaspoon grated nutmeg
1 cup polenta
2 eggs
3 egg yolks
1/2 cup grated Swiss cheese
1 cup A recipe of Cream sauce
1/2 cup grated Parmesan

preparation

In a saucepan, combine the milk, butter, salt, pepper, nutmeg, and polenta. Cook slowly over medium heat for 8 to 10 minutes while stirring continuously.
Stir in the eggs and egg yolks. Continue cooking for a minute while stirring with a wooden spoon. Mix in the cheese.
Line an 8-inch by 14-inch pan with wax paper or parchment paper. Spread the mixture in pan evenly. Cover with parchment paper and refrigerate mixture until set.
Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
Unmold on a cutting board and cut into 3-inch squares. Arrange in a buttered baking dish. Pour cream sauce over and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Brown in oven. Serve hot.
* If polenta is not available, substitute 1 cup regular yellow cornmeal, and cook mixture for about 10 minutes rather than 20 minutes.

Polenta with roasted tomatoes and shallots

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 30 minutes

Cooking time:30 minutes

Ingredients

6 shallots , halved lengthwise
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil , divided
1/4 teaspoon each salt and pepper , divided
3 cups cherry tomatoes
3 cloves garlic , thinly sliced
2 tablespoons chopped chives

Cheesy Polenta:
2/3 cups cornmeal
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese (approx)
1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta cheese

preparation

Preheat oven to 400°F.
On baking sheet, toss together shallots and half each of the oil, salt and pepper; roast for 8 minutes. Meanwhile, in bowl, toss together tomatoes, garlic and remaining oil, salt and pepper. Remove pan from oven; add tomato mixture. Return to oven; roast until vegetables are softened, about 15 minutes. Let cool slightly.
Cheesy Polenta: Meanwhile, in saucepan, bring 3 1/2 cups water to boil; whisk in cornmeal, salt and pepper. Reduce heat to medium-low; cook, stirring frequently, until thick enough to mound on spoon, about 10 minutes. Stir in Parmesan and goat cheese.
Spoon Cheesy Polenta into shallow bowls; top with tomato mixture. Top with more Parmesan, if desired, and chives.

Recipe adapted from Canadian Living Magazine section: ON THE TABLE IN 30 MINUTES

Pork tenderloin with balsamic-cranberry sauce

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:35 minutes

Ingredients

3 tablespoons butter
2 8- to 10-ounce pork tenderloin
1 cup chopped onion
2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
1 cup canned low-salt chicken broth
3/4 cup canned whole berry cranberry sauce
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

preparation

Preheat oven to 450 °F.
Melt 1 tablespoon butter in heavy large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Sprinkle pork with salt and pepper. Sear pork on all sides, about 2 minutes. Place skillet with pork in oven. Roast pork until thermometer inserted into center registers 155 °F, about 10 minutes.
Meanwhile, melt remaining butter in heavy medium skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and rosemary; sauté over medium heat until onion is tender, about 3 minutes. Add broth, cranberry sauce and vinegar and whisk until cranberry sauce melts, about 3 minutes.
Transfer pork to a warm plate. Scrape any juices from large skillet into cranberry mixture.
Boil until sauce has reduced enough to coat spoon thickly. Season with salt and pepper. Slice pork and serve with sauce.

Potato gnocchi with lobster

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:20 minutes

Ingredients

For gnocchi:

2 russet potatoes
3 egg yolks
1/2 cup water
1 teaspoon salt
ground white pepper to taste
1 1/2 cups flour
4 1-1/2 pounds lobsters, steamed for 5 minutes
1 teaspoon olive oil

For sauce:
1/2 cup butter
1 cup toasted walnuts, finely chopped
rind of one lemon, julienned
to taste salt and pepper
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 teaspoons chopped fresh Italian parsley

preparation

For the gnocchi:
Peel potatoes, cut into 3/4-inch chunks, boil until tender, drain and passed through a ricer. Place the potatoes on a work surface dusted with a little flour. Add the egg yolks, water and salt and pepper to taste and mix lightly by hand. Add all but 3 tablespoons of the flour a little at a time, kneading gently just until incorporated. The dough should be soft but not elastic.
On a work surface, form the mass into a log. Divide the log into smaller portions and using your hands, roll out into 1/2-inch-long pieces. Dust them well with flour. Hold a flour-dusted fork, concave side up, in one hand. With the other hand, push a piece of dough into the tines, making an indentation with your thumb. Then roll the dough off the tines, making a shape like a tiny bowl with ridges on the bottom. Flour the fork and repeat with rest of dough.
Remove lobster claws. Crack claws, and remove the meat. Cut lobsters in halves, rub with oil and grill on a hot grill for 8 minutes. Pull the meat from the shells and set aside.
Cook gnocchi in boiling water for 4 to 5 minutes. Drain.
For the sauce:
melt butter in a large skillet. Stir in walnuts and lemon strips and cook 5 minutes. Stir in the lobster meat and gnocchi and cook 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Add lemon juice. Remove from heat and stir in the parmesan.
Divide among 4 plates. Sprinkle with parsley. Serve.

Potato pancakes with goat cheese on mixed greens

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Cooking time:20 minutes

Ingredients

Salad:
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh chives
1 tablespoon finely chopped shallots
1 garlic clove, finely chopped
4 cups mixed baby greens

Pancakes:
2 russet potatoes, peeled, grated
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
4 ounces soft fresh goat cheese (Montrachet) crumbled
4 teaspoons finely chopped fresh chives

preparation

For salad:
whisk vinegar and mustard. Gradually whisk in oil. Mix in chives, shallot and garlic. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
For pancakes:
Place potatoes in dry kitchen towel and squeeze to remove as much moisture as possible. Transfer potatoes to large bowl. Add salt and pepper and toss to combine.
Heat 1 tablespoon oil in heavy skillet over medium heat. Mound 1/3 cup potatoes in skillet. Using spatula, flatten to 3-inch round. Repeat 3 times, forming 4 pancakes.
Top each cake with 1/4 of goat cheese. Sprinkle each with 1 teaspoon chives.
Cover each with another 1/3 cup potatoes; press to adhere, enclosing cheese completely and flattening slightly. Cook until bottoms are golden. Add 1/2 tablespoon oil to skillet. Turn pancakes over; cook until golden. Toss green with enough dressing to coat.
Divide salad among plates. Arrange 1 pancake atop each salad.

Provencale salt cod and potato puree

Serves: 6

Preparation time:30 minutes

Cooking time:40 minutes

Ingredients

1 pound salt cod, desalted
2 medium onions, quartered
7 large cloves garlic (3 halved, 4 minced)
2 bay leaves
12 ounces potatoes
2/3 cup milk
3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
3/4 teaspoon coarse salt ground black pepper to taste

preparation

Heat the oven to 375 degrees.
Oil a small (4 cup) gratin dish. In a saucepan, combine 2 quarts water with the onions, the halved garlic and bay leaves. Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer, add the salt cod, and cover the pot tightly. Turn off the heat and let the fish sit in the water 10 to 15 minutes. Remove from the water and set aside the water for cooking the potatoes. When the fish is cool enough to handle, pick out any bones and remove any skin. Flake the fish. Transfer to a food processor.
Simmer the potatoes until very tender. Drain the potatoes and mash. Add 1/3 cup of the milk and 1/4 cup of the olive oil to the potatoes and combine well. In a saucepan, heat another 1/4 cup of the olive oil over medium-low heat and add the minced garlic. When garlic begins to sizzle, remove pan from heat. Add the garlic and oil, along with the the salt, to the salt cod in the processor.
Combine the remaining 1/3 cup of milk and 1/4 cup oil and add to processor in slow stream. Continue to process until fluffy.
Add the salt cod purée to to the potato mixture and combine well. Season with pepper.
Spoon the mixture into the gratin dish, drizzle with 1 to 2 tablespoons olive oil, and bake until the top begins to brown. Serve hot.

Puff pastry rochoises

Serves: 8

Preparation time: 30 minutes

Cooking time:10 minutes

Ingredients

2 ounces butter
2 ounces flour
2 cups milk
salt, pepper, nutmeg to taste
5 egg yolks
3 1/2 ounces diced ham
3 1/2 ounces diced cooked sausage
4 1/2 ounces grated Swiss cheese
1 pound puff pastry
1/2 cup flour 1 egg, beaten
1 cup fine bread crumbs
fried parsley for garnish

preparation

In a saucepan, make a roux with butter and flour. Add milk. Whisk until sauce thickens. Season with salt, pepper and nutmeg. Add egg yolks. Whisk sauce to boil a few seconds. Cool sauce.
Mix in diced ham and sausage, and grated cheese. Pour into an oiled baking pan so that mixture is 1 inch high. Chill.
Roll cheese mixture into small cylinders. Place on 2 by 4-inch pieces of thinly rolled puff pastry. Seal.
Roll in flour, egg and fine breadcrumbs. Deep fry. Serve with fried parsley.

Pumpkin and sweet garlic custards

Serves: 8

Preparation time: 30 minutes

Cooking time:1 hour 20 minutes

Ingredients

2 heads garlic, separated into cloves but not peeled (approximately 20 cloves)
1 3-pound sugar pumpkin or butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch cubes
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 large eggs
2 cups heavy cream
2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh marjoram leaves
1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
Coarse salt and freshly ground white pepper to taste
8 small sprigs
fresh marjoram, for garnish

preparation

Put the garlic cloves in a small saucepan. Add enough cold salted water to cover and bring to a boil over high heat. Drain, discarding the water. Return the garlic cloves to the pan, add more water and salt, and repeat twice more. When the water comes to a boil for the third time, reduce the heat and simmer for about 12 minutes, until the cloves are tender. Drain, and set aside 8 cloves for garnish. Peel the remaining cloves.
Meanwhile, put the pumpkin in a 2 1/2-quart saucepan. Add enough cold salted water to cover, and bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 6 to 8 minutes, or until tender when pierced with the tip of a small, sharp knife. Drain.
In a 12-inch sauté pan, heat the butter over medium-high heat. Add the squash and peeled garlic cloves, and cook for 5 to 10 minutes, stirring often to avoid scorching, until the excess moisture evaporates. Remove from the heat to cool to room temperature. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
Transfer the squash and garlic to a blender or a food processor fitted with the metal blade and process until smooth.
Add the eggs, cream, marjoram, and nutmeg. Season with salt and pepper, and pulse to combine. Ladle the custard into eight 4-ounce ramekins. Set the ramekins in a shallow roasting pan or baking pan, cover loosely with a sheet of foil, and put the pan in the oven. Pour enough hot water into the pan to come halfway up the sides of the ramekins.
Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, until the custards are set around the edges but still a little shaky in the center. Check the custards after about 15 minutes in the oven. If they are puffing up and resembling souffles, reduce the oven temperature to 325°F. Carefully remove the pan from the oven. If not serving right away, let the heat escape from the oven and, at the same time, reduce the temperature to its lowest setting (between 180° and 200°F). Let the custards cool slightly in the water bath, then lift the ramekins from the water and serve immediately or return them to the oven to keep warm. Serve the custards in the ramekins or unmolded, inverted onto a plate. To serve, garnish each custard with a reserved unpeeled clove of garlic and a sprig of marjoram.
NOTE:
If making well in advance, remove the ramekins from the water bath and allow to cool to room temperature. Cover the ramekins with plastic wrap and refrigerate them. To reheat, place the custards, still covered with plastic wrap, in a large saute pan and add enough water to come about 1/2 inch up the sides of the ramekins. Bring to a simmer over low heat for about 30 minutes, or until the custards are warmed through. Off the heat, the custards will keep warm in the water bath for up to 30 minutes.
VARIATIONS:
This recipe can be used to make custards with vegetables that have low fiber and water content, such as cauliflower, carrots, parsnips, and turnips. If using a more fibrous vegetable such as peas or asparagus, you must first sieve them.

Quinoa tabbouleh

Serves: 4

Preparation time:15 minutes

Cooking time:12 minutes

Ingredients

1 cup quinoa
1 tbsp virgin olive oil
1 1/2 cups vegetable broth

2 tbsp pine nuts, toasted
8 cherry tomatoes, diced
2 scallions, diced
1 tbsp finely chopped parsley
1 tbsp finely chopped mint
1 tbsp finely chopped cilantro
4 tbsp lemon juice
2 tbsp virgin olive oil

preparation

Preheat the oven to 400°. In a large saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of the olive oil. Add the quinoa and toast over moderate heat, stirring, for 2 minutes. Add 3 cups of vegetable broth, season with salt and bring to a boil.
Cover and simmer the quinoa for 12 minutes. Remove from the heat and let stand for 10 minutes. Fluff the quinoa, spread it out on a baking sheet and refrigerate until it is chilled, about 20 minutes.
Add the pine nuts, diced cherry tomatoes, scallions, chopped parsley, mint and cilantro.
In a dish, combine the lemon juice, olive oil and pour over the salad.
Mix well and serve at room temperature.

Ramen burger

Serves: 1

Preparation time: 30 minutes

Cooking time:15 minutes

Sriracha is a type of hot sauce available in Asian food markets. It is made from a paste of chili peppers, distilled vinegar, garlic, sugar, and salt. It is named after the coastal city of Si Racha, in the in the Chonburi Province of Eastern Thailand, where it was possibly first produced for dishes served at local seafood restaurants. From wikipedia.org

To shape the ramen into a bun, use ramekins that are similar in size to the burger patty. If you don't have ramekins, substitute pint-size deli containers.

Ingredients

1 package ramen noodles
1 egg
2 tablespoons neutral oil, such as canola or grapeseed
1 tablespoon ketchup
1/2 tablespoon sriracha
1 beef burger patty
Soy sauce
Sesame oil
1 slice American cheese
1 scallion, thinly sliced on the bias
1/2 cup arugula

preparation

Cook the ramen according to the directions on the package (including the seasoning), then drain off the liquid. Let cool to room temperature. In a small mixing bowl, whisk 1 egg until no streaks of yolk remain. Add the ramen, tossing thoroughly to coat with the egg. Divide the egg-dressed ramen into two portions, and place each half into a ramekin.
Cover the ramen with plastic wrap, and weigh it down with a can of soup to compress it into a bun shape. Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes.
Add the oil to a skillet, and set over medium-high heat. Once the oil begins to shimmer, unmold the ramen buns into the pan, and cook until the bottom is a dark golden brown. Flip both of the patties, and cook until a dark golden brown on both sides.

Whisk together the sriracha and ketchup in a small bowl.

Season the hamburger patty with salt, pepper, a splash of soy sauce, and sesame oil. Wipe out the skillet, and cook the burger over medium-high heat until medium rare, or to your preferred degree of doneness. Finish with a splash of soy sauce and sesame oil. Top with a slice of cheese.

Assemble the burger in this order: ramen bun, arugula, ketchup, burger patty (cheese side up), scallions, and the second ramen bun. Wrap in wax paper for easier eating, and serve hot.

Red endives and spinach salad

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

1 medium red endive
8 ounces young spinach
7 ounces cooked artichoke hearts
2 medium endives sliced into thin rings
1 clove garlic
1 boiled egg
3 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 cup wine vinegar
salt and pepper to taste

preparation

Remove outer endive leaves and discard. Separate leaves. Remove long stems from spinach. Wash and spin dry.
Drain artichoke hearts and cut each in half. Slice onions into thin rings. Cut garlic clove in half.
Using the cut side, rub garlic around the inside of a salad bowl. Combine endive, spinach, and artichoke hearts in salad bowl.
Scatter onion rings over greens.
Chop hard-cooked egg.
In a small bowl, beat together oil, vinegar, salt and pepper to taste and shredded endive stem, and pour over salad. Sprinkle with chopped egg before serving.

Red pepper bisque

Serves: 12

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Cooking time:30 minutes

Ingredients

1/2 cup instant rice
3 cups chicken stock
8 cups sweet red peppers
2 medium sliced white onions
6 cups chicken stock
3 cups milk
1 cup cream
1/2 teaspoon Tabasco
1/2 teaspoon ground white pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika
salt to taste

preparation

In a large saucepan, simmer plain rice in the 3 cups of chicken stock.
In another saucepan, simmer sliced red sweet peppers and sliced onion in remaining chicken stock. Simmer till tender.
Purée red pepper mixture with rice in a blender. Add milk and cream. Season with Tabasco, pepper, paprika and salt.

Red pepper mousse

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 30 minutes

Cooking time:20 minutes

Ingredients

3 sweet red peppers
4 ounces creme fraiche or mascarpone cheese
to taste salt and pepper
4 eggs
1 egg yolk
6 small slices smoked salmon
anchovy cream (recipe below)

Anchovy cream:
2 teaspoons whipping cream
1 ounce anchovy, rinsed
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 1/2 teaspoons lemon juice
1/2 shallot, sliced
to taste salt and pepper
Puree cream and anchovies in a blender until cream thickens. Transfer to a bowl. Add all ingredients.

preparation

Wash peppers. Cut in halves. Remove seeds. Place in a pan. Broil until peppers are browned. Cover with foil until cooled. Peel peppers. Puree peppers, cream or mascarpone in a food processor. Add the eggs, salt and pepper. Process until smooth.
Butter six 4-ounce timbales. Fill with red pepper puree. Place in a baking pan. Pour hot water in pan to a depth of 1 inch. Bake timbales, until they are just firm to the touch. Let stand for 5 minutes.
Place sliced salmon in the center of 6 round plates.
Invert mousse over salmon. Serve with a dab of anchovy cream.

Red quinoa and apple waldorf salad

Serves: 4

Preparation time:15 minutes

Cooking time:10 minutes

The Red Quinoa & Apple Waldorf Salad is a healthy, gluten-free, and vegan twist on a traditional recipe.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients:

1 cup red quinoa – cooked to yield 2 – 3 cups
3 stalks of celery, diced
2 large red-skinned, crisp apples, cored and diced with peel
½ cup coarsely chopped fresh Italian parsley
½ cup chopped walnuts
1/3 cup raisins
Waldorf Salad Dressing:

2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 fresh squeezed lemon or lime
1 tsp brown sugar or maple syrup
¼ tsp salt
¼ tsp pepper
¼ tsp cinnamon
1/8 tsp cardamom
¼ tsp allspice

preparation

1. Start by cooking the red quinoa and let it cool to maintain that delightful nutty crunch.

2. In a large bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, diced celery, apples, chopped parsley, walnuts, and raisins.

3. In a small dish, whisk together the olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon or lime juice, brown sugar or maple syrup, salt, pepper, cinnamon, cardamom, and allspice. This flavorful dressing will add the perfect balance to the salad.

4. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss everything together. Ensure that every ingredient is beautifully coated in the dressing.

5. Serve immediately for a fresh, crunchy experience, or refrigerate until you’re ready to indulge. The vibrant colors and textures will make your table pop with freshness.
6. One remarkable feature of red quinoa is its ability to maintain its shape after cooking, providing that slight nutty crunch that will keep your family coming back for more.

Roast tomato tart

Serves: 8

Preparation time: 30 minutes

Cooking time:45 minutes

Ingredients

1 sheet (from 1 pound (450 g pkg) frozen butter puff pastry, thawed
8 red or striped heirloom plum tomatoes, about 1 ¼ pounds
1 cup yellow teardrop or cherry tomatoes halved lengthwise
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 clove garlic, minced
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp pepper
1 egg beaten
1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese
2 tsp fresh thyme or oregano

preparation

Line 2 rimmed baking sheets with parchment paper; set aside.
On lightly floured surface, roll out pastry to 10-inch square; transfer to prepared pan. Using fork, prick pastry all over; refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Meanwhile, cut red tomatoes crosswise into ½ -inch thick slices. In bowl, toss together red and yellow tomatoes, oil, garlic, salt and pepper; spread on remaining prepared pan. Roast in 400F oven until slightly charred and shriveled, about 30 minutes. Let cool on pan.
Bake pastry in center of 400 degrees F. oven until light golden and puffed, 12 to 15 minutes. Let cool slightly. Brush pastry all over with some of the egg; sprinkle with cheese, leaving a 1-inch border. Arrange red tomatoes in overlapping rows on cheese. Scatter yellow tomatoes over top; sprinkle with thyme. Return to oven and bake until golden and puffed, 12 to 15 minutes. Let cool for 5 minutes; cut into squares. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Adapted from Canadian Living August 2007

Roasted cauliflower with parmesan polenta

Serves: 4

Preparation time:20 minutes

Cooking time:1 hour

A recipe inspired from Chris Scheuer

Ingredients

For the cauliflower:
1 large or 2 medium head cauliflower
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon kosher salt
freshly ground black pepper

For the panko crumbs:
1/2 cup panko crumbs
2 teaspoons melted butter
2 tablespoons toasted pinenuts
1 small clove garlic
finely grated zest from 1 medium lemon
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley leaves
2 medium size sundried tomato, drained and finely chopped (optional)

For the polenta:
5 cups low sodium chicken broth, or vegetable broth
1 cup instant polenta
1/2 cup parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, more to taste

preparation

Adjust oven rack to middle position and preheat oven to 450°F. Drizzle a sheet pan with 1 tablespoons of olive oil. Set aside.
For the panko crumbs, melt butter till bubbly in a small sauté pan. Add pine nuts and stir continuously for about 1 minute, till nuts and butter turn a light, golden brown. Remove pan from heat, then remove pine nuts with a slotted spoon to a plate lined with a paper towel. Add garlic to butter in pan and return to medium low heat. Cook for 15-30 seconds or until fragrant. Add panko crumbs to the pan and stir to combine. Cook, stirring continuously for 1 minute to crisp crumbs. Remove from heat, Add lemon zest, parsley and finely chopped sundried tomato.
Wash and remove any outer leaves from the cauliflower, but leave the stem intact. Place head stalk side down on a cutting board. Using a large chef's knife, slice cauliflower into 3/4" wedges. Arrange cauliflower slices and any pieces in a single layer on prepared baking sheet, placing any stray pieces in the center of the pan. Drizzle with remaining oil and season with salt and pepper. Cauliflower shrinks during the roasting process.
Roast until underside is deep golden brown, 15–25 minutes. Turn cauliflower over, season with salt and pepper, and continue to roast until other side is deep golden brown and crisp, 15–20 minutes longer.
While the cauliflower steaks are roasting, make the polenta. Bring broth to a boil in a medium large pot.While the broth boils, slowly add polenta, stirring or whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Once all polenta has been incorporated, lower eat to a gentle simmer and cook, uncovered for 6-8 minutes. Add parmesan and salt and stir to incorporate. Polenta should be thick but spoonable. If it gets too thick, you can add a bit more chicken broth, to thin.
To serve, spoon polenta into four shallow bowls. Arrange cauliflower steaks on top and sprinkle with panko mixture and pine nuts. Garnish with parsley and lemon slices.

Roasted tomato caprese salad

Serves: 6

Preparation time:10 minutes

Cooking time:1 hour

Ingredients

1 1/2 pounds cherry tomatoes
1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon maple syrup
1 1/2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar
1/4 teaspoon sugar
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 pound small fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved
1/4 cup basil leaves, finely sliced
1 teaspoon grated zest from 1 lemon

preparation

Heat oven to 375F. Add cherry tomatoes, olive oil, maple syrup, balsamic vinegar, and sugar to 9 by 13 inch baking dish. Toss to combine. Roast until just starting to char, about 40 minutes, tossing occasionally to cook evenly.
Remove from oven and cool 5 to 10 minutes. Transfer tomatoes along with any any accumulated juices to large bowl. Add mozzarella and basil. Gently toss to combine. Add lemon zest then season with salt and pepper. Toss again and serve.

Salmon burgers

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:12 minutes

Making burgers has taken a new meaning. Use fresh salmon for this recipe. The burger patties can be prepared 2 hours in advance.

Ingredients

4 kaiser rolls, or hamburger buns
1 tablespoon butter, softened
1 pound salmon, boned and skinned
1/2 cup seeded and diced red bell pepper
1/2 cup seeded and diced green bell pepper
2 tablespoons chopped green onion
1/4 teaspoon green tabasco sauce
1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
to taste salt, ground black pepper
1 egg white
1 tablespoon canola oil
2 teaspoon butter
4 thick slices large tomatoes
1/2 cup tartar sauce
2 cups cole slaw

preparation

Preheat the broiler. Lightly brush bread with butter. Broil on both sides for about 2 minutes. Set aside.
To prepare the salmon burger mixture:
Cube the boneless and skinless salmon. Chop finely on a cutting board. In a large bowl, combine the salmon with the red and green peppers, green onion, tabasco, salt and pepper to taste. Beat the egg white with a wire whisk until soft peaks form. Fold into the salmon mixture.
Divide into 4 equal portions, shape into patties 3/4-inch thick and 4 inches in diameter.
Refrigerate the patties on a tray until ready to use.
When chilled they hold together better.
Preheat a large nonstick skillet on the stove over medium heat until hot.
Brush the salmon burgers with canola oil on both sides, and carefully place in the skillet. Cook until browned, 3 to 5 minutes. Turn and continue cooking the burgers until they are browned and just cooked through.
PRESENTATION
Arrange each salmon burger on a bun. Top with a slice of tomato, one heaping tablespoon of tartar sauce, 1/4 cup mixed green salad and finish with another piece of bread.

Salmon burgers with cole slaw

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 30 minutes

Cooking time:20 minutes

Ingredients

See Salmon Burgers recipe
Cole slaw:
1/3 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons cider vinegar
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
3 cups finely shredded cabbage
1 large carrot, shredded coarse
1 small red onion, sliced thin

preparation

Make cole slaw:
In a large bowl whisk together mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, and mustard.
Add remaining cole slaw ingredients and salt and pepper to taste and toss to combine well.
Cole slaw may be made 4 hours ahead and chilled, covered.

Salmon burgers with herb aïoli

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Cooking time:10 minutes

Ingredients

2 small cloves garlic
salt
1-1/2 cups mayonnaise
1/3 cup finely chopped fresh chives
2 Tbs. finely chopped fresh dill
1-1/2 Tbs. Dijon mustard
1 Tbs. fresh lemon juice
1/8 tsp. cayenne
Freshly ground black pepper

5 brioche, hamburger or Kaiser buns, 1 cut into large cubes, the other 4 split
1 lb (2 cups) skinless salmon fillets, skinned and boned, cut into 1-inch pieces
2 oz. (4 Tbs.) unsalted butter

preparation

Mash and chop the garlic with a pinch of salt. Transfer the garlic to a small bowl and stir in the mayonnaise, chives, dill, mustard, lemon juice, cayenne, 1/4 tsp. pepper, and salt to taste. Set the aïoli aside.

In a food processor, pulse the cubed bun into crumbs. Set aside 1/2 cup of the crumbs and save the rest for another use. Pulse the salmon until coarsely chopped, about 5 pulses. Transfer the salmon to a medium bowl and stir in 3/4 cup of the aïoli, the reserved breadcrumbs, 1/4 tsp. salt, and 1/8 tsp. pepper. Shape into four 1-inch-thick patties.

Heat 2 Tbs. of the butter in a 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. When melted and hot (but not smoking or brown), add the patties and cook until they are firm and each side is crisp and golden-brown, 3 to 5 minutes per side.

Brush melted butter on the insides of the split buns. Put the buns on a baking sheet, butter side up, and toast under the broiler until light golden brown, 1 to 2 minutes.
Serve the burgers on the buns, spread with the remaining aïoli.

Serve with Spinach Salad.

Salmon salad with asparagus and orzo

Serves: 6

Preparation time:10 minutes

Cooking time:20 minutes

Yummy and easy to pull together on a weeknight. It keeps well, too. Leftovers were just as good.

Ingredients

1 pound asparagus, trimmed and cut into 3-inch pieces
1 cup uncooked orzo or brown rice
1 (1 1/4-pound) skinless salmon fillet
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Cooking spray
¼ cup thinly sliced red onion
Lemon-Dill Vinaigrette

preparation

Preheat broiler.
Step 2

Bring 6 cups water to a boil in a large saucepan. Add asparagus; cook 3 minutes or until crisp-tender. Remove asparagus from water with tongs or a slotted spoon, reserving water in pan. Plunge asparagus into ice water; drain and set aside.
Step 3

Return reserved water to a boil. Add orzo, and cook according to package directions, omitting salt and fat.
Step 4

While orzo cooks, sprinkle fillet evenly with salt and pepper. Place fish on a foil-lined broiler pan coated with cooking spray. Broil 5 minutes or until fish flakes easily when tested with a fork or until desired degree of doneness. Using 2 forks, break fish into large chunks. Combine fish, orzo, asparagus, onion, and Lemon-Dill Vinaigrette in a large bowl; toss gently to coat.

Salmon-stuffed crab cakes

Serves: 4

Preparation time:15 minutes

Cooking time:10 minutes

The salmon is smoked, which adds an interesting layer of flavor to a basic crab cake. Wasabi makes the sauce spicy.

Ingredients

1 pound fresh lump crabmeat, drained
1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
1/4 cup finely diced roasted red peppers
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
1/2 teaspoon white pepper
3 slices smoked salmon, 1/4 inch thick
1 cup panko (Japanese breadcrumbs)
1/4 cup canola oil
Spicy Avocado Tartar Sauce (recipe below)
Garnish: fresh cilantro sprigs

preparation

Stir together first 6 ingredients in a large bowl. Divide mixture into 8 balls.

Flatten each ball into a 3-inch patty. Divide smoked salmon into 4 pieces, and place in center of 4 patties. Place remaining patties over salmon, pressing edges to seal; coat cakes in breadcrumbs.

Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat; add cakes, and cook, in batches, 3 to 4 minutes on each side or until golden. Drain on paper towels. Serve immediately with Spicy Avocado Tartar Sauce. Garnish with fresh cilantro sprigs, if desired.

Spicy Avocado Tartar Sauce

1 tablespoon wasabi powder
1 tablespoon water
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 ripe avocado
1 1/2 tablespoons dill pickle relish
1 1/2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
1 tablespoon lime juice
Preparation

Combine wasabi powder and water in a small bowl to form a paste. Add mayonnaise; stir until smooth.

Cut avocado in half; discard seed. Scoop avocado pulp into wasabi mixture, and mash to desired consistency. Add remaining ingredients; stir until combined.

San remo pasta salad

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Cooking time:12 minutes

Ingredients

12 ounces fusilli
1/2 cup sun dried tomatoes in olive oil
1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
1/2 cup black olives
1/3 cup olive oil
1/3 cup salad oil
2 teaspoons wine vinegar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

preparation

Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente.
Drain and rinse in cold water. Drain well in a colander.
Add all remaining ingredients and toss lightly. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Serve at room temperature or lightly chilled.

Scrambled egg feuillete

Serves: 8

Preparation time: 30 minutes

Cooking time:40 minutes

Ingredients

2 pounds fresh tomatoes, peeled, seeded and diced
1 ounce finely chopped shallots
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 clove garlic, peeled
thyme, bay leaf
salt and pepper to taste
8 individual puff pastry shells (available frozen)
2 ounces butter
16 eggs
salt and pepper
2 ounces butter
For garnish: parsley

preparation

Make the tomato sauce:
Cook shallots over low heat with oil. Add tomatoes, thyme, bay leaf, and salt and pepper to taste. Simmer over low heat for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
While sauce is simmering, cook pastry shells according to directions on the package.

For the eggs:
Beat eggs with a whisk. Strain in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper. Melt butter in a large non stick frying pan. Pour eggs in pan. Cook over low heat while stirring constantly until eggs are creamy. Mix in the butter.
Spoon eggs into the warm pastry shells. Place pastry cover on top of eggs.
Garnish with parsley. Serve with the tomato sauce.

Scrambled eggs

Serves: 2

Preparation time:2 minutes

Cooking time:5 minutes

Ingredients

4 large eggs
1 tablespoon milk, cream, plant milk, or water
2 tablespoons butter, for the pan
Sea salt and fresh black pepper
1 tablespoon Chopped fresh chives, optional, for garnish

preparation

Crack the eggs into a medium bowl and add the milk, cream or water. Whisk until smooth and combined, with no streaks of egg white remaining.
Brush a small nonstick skillet with olive oil, or melt a little butter in a small nonstick skillet. Bring to medium heat.
Pour in the eggs, and let them cook for a few seconds without stirring. Pull a rubber spatula across the bottom of the pan to form large, soft curds of scrambled eggs.
Continue cooking over medium-low heat, folding and stirring the eggs every few seconds. Scrape the spatula along the bottom and sides of the pan often to form more curds and to prevent any part of the eggs from drying out.
Remove the pan from the heat when the eggs are mostly set, but a little liquid egg remains. Season to taste with salt and pepper and garnish with chopped fresh chives, if desired.

Seafood casserole

Serves: 8

Preparation time: 30 minutes

Cooking time:35 minutes

Ingredients

1 pound shrimp
2 ounces butter
1 pound crab meat
1 pound scallops
2 ounces butter
2 cups cream sauce or velouté sauce
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 cup sour cream
2 teaspoon Worcestershire
2 cups potatoes, cubed
2 cups carrots, diced
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 tablespoon butter

preparation

Sauté shrimp in butter. Season with salt and pepper. Repeat same process with scallops. Combine all seafood.
Strain the juices out, and combine with the velouté sauce. Simmer seafood in sauce for a while. Season to taste. Add the cooked potatoes, and carrots. Mix in the mayonnaise, sour cream, and Worcestershire. Spoon in casserole dish. Sprinkle breacrumbs over top. Drizzle with butter.
Bake at 350 F. for about 25 minutes or until bubbly.

Seafood green onion pancake haemul-pajeon

Serves: 2

Preparation time:15 minutes

Cooking time:12 minutes

When making pajeon, most Koreans use green onion, and the most popular kind of pajeon is made with seafood. A recipe related to
https://www.maangchi.com

Ingredients

½ cup all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon potato starch
½ teaspoon kosher salt plus a pinch of salt
a pinch of ground black pepper
¾ cup stock (anchovy kelp stock, chicken stock or vegetable stock), or water
4 tablespoons vegetable oil
12 green onions, roots and tops trimmed to 8 to 9 inches long (to fit your skillet)
4 to 5 ounces (½ cup) seafood (peeled and deveined shrimp, squid, clams), chopped
1 large egg, beaten in a small bowl
1 fresh red pepper, sliced

For dipping sauce:
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon white or apple cider vinegar
½ teaspoon gochu-garu (Korean hot pepper flakes)
1 green onion, chopped
1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds

preparation

dipping sauce:
1. Put soy sauce, vinegar, gochu-garu, green onion, and sesame seeds in a small bowl.
2. Mix and set it aside.
3. Prepare pancake ingredients:
1. Combine the chopped seafood, pinch of salt and a pinch of ground black pepper in a small bowl. Mix it well and set aside.
2. Combine flour, potato starch, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¾ cup stock (or water) in a large enough to accommodate the green onions. Mix with a whisk until smooth.
Make green onion pancake:
1. Heat 2 tablespoons of the vegetable oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat and swirl to coat evenly.
2. Add the green onions to the batter to coat them. Using tongs or your hand, place them side by side in the skillet, alternating white end to green end, so they form a neat rectangle.
3. Add the seafood to the leftover batter in the bowl. Using your hands or tongs, spread the battered seafood on top of the battered scallions, scraping out any excess batter remaining in the bowl.
4. Add the sliced red pepper and pour the beaten egg over top of the pancake in the skillet.
5. Quickly wash your hands!
6. Reduce the heat to medium and cook for about 6 minutes, until the bottom is light brown and crispy.
7. Turn the pancake over with a large spatula. Drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons vegetable oil around the edges of the skillet. Lift one edge of the pancake with your spatula and tilt the skillet so that the oil flows underneath the pancake. Cook for another 3 minutes until nicely browned and crisp.
8. Turn the pancake over again. Turn up the heat to medium high heat and cook for 1 minute, until the bottom turns crunchy.
9. Transfer to a large plate, with the egg and seafood side up. Serve right away with the dipping sauce.
How to eat:
1. Mix the dipping sauce with a spoon. You can cut up the large pancake into several pieces before eating. Take 1 piece to a small individual plate and drizzle some dipping sauce with the spoon and eat. If you don’t want to precut the pancake, you can use your chopsticks to tear off a chunk of batter with a green onion and seafood, and then eat it with the dipping sauce. I prefer the second way because I love to eat the whole cooked green onion.

Shaved asparagus salad

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 15 minutes

A fresh and zesty great recipe for the warmer weather. You could substitute red wine vinegar for the lemon juice, and also add in other spring vegetables like sliced radishes, snap peas.

Ingredients

1 bunch large asparagus, (not the small pencil thick)
1⁄4 cup toasted nuts of your choice (pine nuts, walnuts, or almonds)
lemon juice to taste
zest of one lemon
a splash of olive oil
a handful salad mix or arugula
Parmesan or crumbled feta
Sea salt and pepper

preparation

Shave the asparagus into thin ribbons with a vegetable peeler or a slicer starting at the root end, shaving downwards towards the tip.
Mix the shaved asparagus together with the salad mix or arugula and toss with the lemon juice, zest, olive oil, salt and pepper. Top with the toasted nuts and cheese.
Serve immediately.

Sherried chicken thighs

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Cooking time:40 minutes

Ingredients

8 chicken thighs
salt and white pepper to taste
2 teaspoons olive oil
3/4 cup dry sherry
1/4 cup tarragon vinegar
2 cloves minced garlic
1/4 cup water

preparation

Rinse the chicken thighs and pat dry. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, over medium high heat, heat olive oil. Add thighs, and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 10 minutes.
Add remaining ingredients; boil 1 minute. Reduce heat to medium, cover and cook 15 minutes.
Uncover and continue cooking until thighs are tender. Transfer thighs to a serving dish. Spoon off the pan drippings; add the water and cook, stirring constantly. Pour over thighs and serve immediately.

Shrimp salad with belgian endive

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

1 1/2 pounds of shrimp, cleaned and cooked
4 large Belgian Endives, prepared
1 large cucumber, sliced
1 carrot, peeled and sliced

Cucumber Sauce:
Mix in a bowl,
1 cup yogurt or sour cream
1 tablespoon horseradish
1 small cucumber, pared and grated
juice of lemon or lime to taste
2 tablespoons dill, chopped
salt and pepper to taste

preparation

Trim endives and separate leaves.
Arrange endive leaves, shrimp, cucumber and carrot slices on individual cold plates.
Serve with sauce.

Shrimp-tortellini pesto

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:15 minutes

Ingredients

For the pesto:
1 cup stemmed basil
1/4 cup grated Romano cheese
1/4 cup pine nuts
2 teaspoons fresh parsley
3 teaspoons olive oil

1 clove minced garlic
2 teaspoons melted butter
1 pound cleaned shrimp
1 clove minced garlic
1 large tomato, diced
salt and pepper to taste
1 pound tortellini

preparation

Pesto:
Combine first six ingredients. Puree in a blender. Transfer to a bowl.

In a 12 inch sauté pan, over high heat, quickly sauté shrimp with butter, garlic and tomato. Season with salt and pepper. Toss and stir constantly.
Cook tortellini in salted boiling water. Drain, and add immediately to pesto mixture.
Toss thoroughly. Spoon on plates, and top with shrimp and tomato. Serve hot.

Sicilian arancini

Serves: 6

Preparation time:40 minutes

Cooking time:5 minutes

Classic Sicilian Arancini Rice Balls

Arancini, rice balls stuffed with sauce peas or corn, are one of the best-loved Sicilian snacks and street foods, and they have become increasingly popular throughout Italy and worldwide.
The filling in this recipe is a meat ragù, green peas, and melty mozzarella, but there are endless other types of fillings including pistachios, mushrooms, prosciutto and mozzarella, ham, spinach, and more.
The rice is scented with saffron and the rice balls are rolled in breadcrumbs before frying them into balls. Usually, they're made with caciocavallo cheese, but since that can be difficult to find outside of Southern Italy, Parmigiano-Reggiano is used in this recipe.
They can be eaten as an antipasto or snack, or even as a meal when coupled with perhaps a salad or soup.

Ingredients

For the Rice
10 1/2 ounces short-grain rice (Vialone Nano, Carnaroli, or Arborio)
1/4 teaspoon crushed saffron
1 1/2 cups water
2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
3 oz unsalted butter
Fine sea salt (to taste)
Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

For the Meat Sauce and Filling
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/3 cup yellow onion (about 1/2 small, finely chopped)
3 tablespoons carrot (finely chopped )
3 tablespoons celery (finely chopped)
3 ounces ground beef
3 ounces ground pork
2 tablespoons dry red wine
2 teaspoons tomato paste
1 cup tomato purée (passata di pomodoro)
1/3 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)

For the Rice Balls
Optional: 4.4 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese (diced)
1⁄4 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
1/2 cup water
Pinch salt
2 cups breadcrumbs
2 inches vegetable oil (for frying)
Steps to Make It

preparation

Make the Rice
In a large saucepan over medium-high heat, place the rice, saffron, and 1 1/2 cups water and bring to a boil.
Cover, reduce heat to low, and let simmer about 15 to 20 minutes or until all of the water has been absorbed.
Remove lid, stir in grated Parmigiano, butter, salt, and pepper, to taste.
Spread the rice out on a large plate or baking dish to cool completely to room temperature.

Make the Meat Sauce and Filling
Heat the olive oil in a small saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the onions, carrots, and celery and sauté, stirring often, until softened and the onions are translucent - about 8 to 10 minutes.
Add the ground beef and pork and fry, stirring often, until browned - about 5 to 8 minutes.
Add the wine and let cook until the alcohol aroma has reduced - about 1 minute.
Stir in the tomato paste and tomato purée, reduce the heat to medium-low, and cook, stirring occasionally - about 10 minutes.
Stir in meat sauce.
Add the peas and continue to simmer the sauce for another 8 to 10 minutes, or until the peas are tender and the sauce is thickened. It should not be too liquidy.
Transfer the filling to a bowl and set aside to let it cool.

Once the rice and filling are completely cooled, start shaping your rice balls.
Place 1 heaping tablespoon of rice in the palm of one hand, then use your fingers and thumb to shape it into a hollow bowl shape.
Place about 1 teaspoon of the filling in the center and 1 to 2 small cubes of diced fresh mozzarella (if using).
Then gently close the rice around the filling to form either a round ball shape or a cone/pear shape.

When all of your arancini have been formed, whisk together the flour, eggs, 1/2 cup of water, and a pinch of salt in a shallow bowl until smooth.
Spread the bread crumbs in a plate or baking dish.
Gently roll each ball first in the egg-flour-water-salt mixture, letting any excess drip off.
Then roll them in the breadcrumbs until evenly coated.
At this point, you can refrigerate your arancini for 20 to 30 minutes to let them firm up if they seem a bit too loose or liquidy. If not, you can go directly to frying.
Heat about 2 inches of vegetable frying oil to 360F.
Fry your arancini in batches of just 2 to 3 at a time, being careful not to overcrowd the pot until they are evenly golden-brown - about 3 minutes.
Transfer them to a paper-towel-lined plate to drain.
Serve hot.

Silk handkerchiefs with pesto

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:4 minutes

Ingredients

For pasta:
3 1/2 cups flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
5 eggs
2 teaspoons olive oil
1 recipe of pesto dressing

preparation

Make a well with flour and salt on a work surface. In the center, add eggs. one at a time, working into flour with your hands. Continue kneading until dough is smooth and elastic, about 10 minutes.
Divide dough into 4 balls.
Put the dough through a pasta machine several times, gradually setting the thickness from the widest to the thinnest.
Cut sheets into 4 inch square.
Cook pasta in salted boiling water for 3 to 4 minutes.
Drain and serve with pesto.

Slow-roasted tomatoes

Serves: 6

Preparation time:10 minutes

Cooking time:2 hours

Ingredients

Tomatoes

preparation

Pre-heat the oven to 120°C – 250°F.

Take any quantity of ripe, red tomatoes. With the tip of a knife, cut the green stem end out of each one, pulling out a little triangular plug of core.

Halve the tomatoes and squeeze the juice and seeds out of each half.

Place the seeded tomato halves on a baking tray, cut side up. Sprinkle salt, and grind pepper, into the hollow halves. Drizzle with good olive oil.

Is there basil in your fridge, oregano, rosemary growing in a windowsill pot? Chop up a little – it doesn’t take much – and smash a clove or two of garlic along with it. Spoon 1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon of the fresh herb mixture into the hollows of the tomatoes. Salt again, lightly.

Now put the loaded baking tray into the oven, shut the door, and come back in about four hours. Roasting time may vary according to your oven. A delicious aroma will arise in the kitchen about 2 hours into the roasting, but don’t take the tomatoes out yet (you’re allowed to peek, though). The tomatoes should be moist, slightly leathery at the edges but not dried out. There should be a small amount of liquid in the baking tray.

Once cooled, store them in a clean, dry glass jar and keep refrigerated. They will last up to two weeks.

Now, what do you do with these gourmet tomatoes?

Layer one or two halves into a sandwich, with other fillings.
Chop and add some to a cheese omelet or scrambled eggs
Top pizza or bruschetta with grated mozzarella and roasted tomato halves
Drop a couple into any stew 15 minutes before the end of cooking time
Coarsely chop and add 3 halves to a quiche filling
Add 4 chopped halves to your next batch of bread (add some chopped scallions, too)
Serve them plain as mezze, with olives and another raw salad vegetable or two

Smoked salmon corncakes

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:15 minutes

The spicy smoked salmon corncakes are cooked in a skillet, and serve as a brunch entree or appetizers with sour cream, chopped red onion, and lemon slices.

Ingredients

3/4 cup yellow cornmeal
6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 large egg, beaten lightly
1/2 cup plus 4 tablespoons buttermilk
6 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
1 cup fresh corn kernels or thawed frozen corn
6 tablespoons finely chopped fresh chives
1 teaspoon finely chopped jalapeño peppers
1 cup smoked salmon, finely chopped
4 tablespoons vegetable oil
for garnish:
sour cream
chopped red onion
lemon slices

preparation

In a medium bow, combine the cornmeal, flour, baking soda, and salt. In another medoum bowl, whisk together eggs, buttermilk, and cream cheese.
Chop half of corn coarsely and stir into buttermilk mixture with remaining corn, chives, jalapeño pepper, salmon, and cornmeal mixture until just combined.
In a large non-stick skillet heat oil over moderate heat. Drop batter by 1/4 -cup measures into skillet. Spread batter slightly to form 3 to 4-inch cakes and cook 2 to 3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
Transfer corncakes to a warm platter, and keep warm.

PRESENTATION
Arrange 2 corncakes on each warm plate. Serve with sour cream, chopped red onion, and lemon slices.

Smoked salmon napoleons

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Cooking time:10 minutes

Ingredients

for the sauce:
1/2 cup white wine vinegar
1/4 cup minced shallots
1 cup clam juice or fish stock
1/2 cup vegetable oil
4 large egg yolks
1/4 cup chopped fresh dill

for the napoleons:
6 phyllo pastry sheets
6 tablespoons melted butter
8 ounces smoked salmon, thinly sliced
4 teaspoons minced onion
1/2 cup virgin olive oil
1 1/2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
8 cups sliced yellow endives

preparation

for the sauce:
In a heavy medium saucepan, boil the vinegar and shallots until almost no liquid remains. Add the clam juice, or fish stock, and the oil. Simmer to reduce to 1 cup.
Whisk the egg yolks. Gradually whisk in the simmering sauce. Return sauce to pan; stir over low heat to thicken. Do not allow the sauce to boil. Strain into bowl. Mix in the dill.
Set aside in a warm area.
for the napoleons:
Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
Unroll the phyllo dough. Place one sheet on work surface. Brush with butter. Top with second sheet. Brush with butter. Continue the same procedure with the remaining four sheets.
Cut phyllo into twelve 4 1/2 by 2-inch rectangles. Place on a baking sheet, and bake for about 8 minutes, or until golden brown. Transfer plyllo sheets to a rack lined with wax paper; cool.
Place four phyllo sheets on work surface.
Cover each with slices of smoked salmon. Sprinkle with pepper. Sprinkle each with 1/4 teaspoon onion.
Spoon 1 teaspoon of the warm sauce cover. Top each with another phyllo rectangle, then salmon, pepper, and onion. Spoon 1 teaspoon over. Top with remaining phyllo rectangles.
Make a dressing by whisking the oil and vinegar.
Season with salt and pepper. Add the endive, and toss.

PRESENTATION
Divide the salad among 4 plates.
Top each with one napoleon. Serve, passing remaining sauce separately.

Smoked salmon omelet

Serves: 2

Preparation time: 10 minutes

Cooking time:5 minutes

Ingredients

3 large eggs
1 green onion, finely chopped
1 tbsp butter
4 oz smoked salmon
2 oz cream cheese, cut into thin strips
1 tablespoon chopped dill

preparation

Heat skillet with a teaspoon vegetable oil. Cook green onion for a minute or so, until aroma is released.
In a mixing bowl, beat eggs by hand with dill and green onion for about a minute.
Pour one half of the mixture into a buttered hot skillet and cook over medium heat, lifting edges with spatula several times to allow uncooked egg to run to bottom of skillet.
When bottom of omelet is firm, turn gently with spatula. Crumble 2 oz of smoked salmon on cooked eggs, and top with 1 oz strips of cream cheese.
Fold the other half-circle over the top of the half with the ingredients, cover skillet with lid, and cook for a minute or two over low heat. Serve with buttered toast or toasted bagels.
Make the second omelet.

Smoked salmon quiche

Serves: 8

Preparation time:20 minutes

Cooking time:1 hour 30 minutes

Ingredients

Quiche Crust
1 homemade quiche crust (shortcrust pastry)
2 sheets frozen shortcrust pastry
1 x 9" refrigerated pie crust , fitted in a 9" pie dish or tart tin
1 ready made pie shell (23cm / 9", fridge or frozen)
Quiche Filling:
15g / 1 tbsp butter , unsalted
1 leek , white part only halved and finely sliced (Note 2)
2 garlic cloves , minced
8 - 10 asparagus spears
5 eggs (~55 - 60g / 2oz each)
1 1/2 cups (375ml) cream , full fat (Note 3)
1/4 tsp salt + pinch pepper
2 tbsp fresh dill , roughly chopped (Note 4)
200g / 7 oz smoked salmon , cut into 4cm / 1.7" pieces (Note 5)
3/4 cup (75g) gruyere cheese , grated (Note 6)
Decorations (optional)
Dill sprigs and extra smoked salmon

preparation

Homemade quiche crust or frozen shortcrust pastry - prepare and bake the crust per Quiche Crust recipe.
Refrigerated pie crust - unroll, fit into a 9" pie dish or tart tin. Bake per packet directions.
Prepared pie shell (ie comes in foil dish) - bake per packet directions, scale Filling down to 4 eggs (Note 1).
Filling:
Preheat oven to 180C/350F (160C/320F fan forced).
Place cooked quiche crust on a tray.
Asparagus - break woody ends off (Note 7). Cut into 3.5cm / 1.5" pieces, separate tips from stems (tips for decorating).
Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add leeks and garlic, saute for 2 minutes or until leeks are translucent, don't let them go golden.
Stir in asparagus stems (don't cook), then remove from stove.
Cool slightly then scatter across base of quiche crust.
Whisk together eggs, cream, dill, salt, pepper in a bowl.
Scatter 2/3 of the salmon across quiche, folding/twisting pieces rather than laying flat.
Top with cheese, pour over egg mixture.
Top with remaining salmon and asparagus tips.
Bake for 40 minutes or until top is light golden and centre is set but still slightly jiggly when you poke it.
Rest for 10 minutes before carefully removing from tin and slicing.

Smoked salmon salad

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

10 ounces baby spinach, cleaned, drained
8 ounces smoked salmon
8 slices Swiss cheese

For dressing:
1/2 cup olive oil
1/4 cup wine vinegar
1 teaspoon honey
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon white pepper

preparation

Trim stalks from spinach and shred leaves finely. Place in a large bowl. Cut smoked salmon and cheese into matchstick strips.
Heat the dressing ingredients in a pot. Bring to boil. Pour hot dressing over spinach and toss well.
PRESENTATION
Divide spinach among cold salad plates. Top with salmon and cheese. Vary the amount of spinach and cheese if desired.

Smoked salmon salad

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

8 cups torn leaf lettuce
2 green onions, sliced
2 tbsp drained capers
Dressing:
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 tsp grated lemon rind
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp liquid honey
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp white wine vinegar
1/4 tsp each salt and pepper

3 oz (85 g) thinly sliced smoked salmon

preparation

Dressing: In bowl, whisk together oil, lemon rind and juice, honey, mustard, vinegar, salt and pepper. Mince half of the smoked salmon; add to dressing.

In salad bowl, toss together lettuce, onions and dressing until coated. Divide among plates.

Cut remaining salmon into strips; curl into rosettes and arrange on salad. Sprinkle capers over top.

Smoked salmon soufflé

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 25 minutes

Cooking time:40 minutes

Ingredients

2 ounces butter
1 tablespoon shallots, minced
1/2 cup dry white wine
2 ounces flour
1 1/2 cups milk, scalded
1/4 teaspoon white pepper, ground
1/8 teaspoon nutmeg
8 ounces smoked salmon, chopped
4 ounces mushrooms, diced
1 ounce butter
5 egg yolks
5 egg whites
1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
1 tablespoon butter, softened
1 tablespoon flour

preparation

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
Melt butter in a saucepan. Add shallots and wine. Reduce over medium heat until wine is almost evaporated. Stir in the flour and cook over medium heat for 5 minutes. Pour the milk in the roux. Whisk and heat until the sauce thickens and comes to a boil. Season with pepper and nutmeg.
Mix in the chopped salmon and the mushrooms sauteed in butter. Stir in the egg yolks. In the bowl of a mixer, combine the egg whites with cream of tartar and whip the egg white mix until medium firm. Fold into the salmon mixture. Butter and flour a 7 inch (17.5 cm) round souffle mold.
Spoon the souffle mix into mold.
Bake 30 minutes at 350 F.(180 C). Serve immediately.

Smoked salmon terrine

Serves: 8

Preparation time: 30 minutes

Cooking time:5 minutes

Layers of smoked salmon and spinach mixed with cream cheese and butter are molded and chilled. This dish may be prepared a day or day in advance.

Ingredients

1 pound fresh spinach, stems removed
4 ounces cream cheese
4 ounces butter, softened
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 teaspoon Tabasco Sauce
salt, ground pepper to taste
1 pound smoked salmon, sliced thin
2 bunches watercress or mache
1/2 cup vinaigrette dressing
16 slices toasted french bread

preparation

Wash the spinach thoroughly in two or three changes of cold water. Cook in salted boiling water for about 4 minutes. Plunge the spinach in ice cold water. Drain and squeeze the excess of water out of the spinach.
Combine the cream cheese, butter, Worcestershire sauce, and Tabasco in a food processor. Mix to a smooth paste. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Lightly butter the sides of a 1 1/2 quart terrine or a rectangular cake mold. Then, line the mold with parchment paper. Cover the bottom and sides of the mold with slices of smoked salmon. Spoon the spinach mixture into a pastry bag fitted with a medium size plain tube. Pipe a 1/4-inch layer of the spinach mixture over the bottom of the terrine or mold and smooth evenly.
Arrange a layer of smoked salmon over the spinach mixture. Continue to alternate layers of spinach and salmon, ending with salmon. Cover with film wrap, and refrigerate at least three hours.
Invert the terrine or mold onto a cutting board. Remove the layer of parchment paper, and slice the terrine into 1/2-inch slices with a knife that is dipped in hot water for each cut.
PRESENTATION
Toss the clean salad with the dressing. Divide the salad between the cold plates, and arrange in the center of the plates. Lay two slices of the salmon terrine over the lettuce in each plate.
Garnish with lemon wedges. Serve with toasted bread.
Note:
Marinated avocado slices may also be used as garnish with the terrine of salmon.

Smoked salmon with basil-dressed baby greens

Serves: 8

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

for basil dressing:
1 1/2 cups fresh basil leaves, washed and drained
1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 cup water
1/3 cup white wine vinegar
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

1 pound smoked salmon, thinly sliced
1 pound mixed baby greens, cleaned and spinned
French bread

preparation

For the basil dressing: In a blender, combine the basil, olive oil, water, white wine vinegar, garlic, salt and pepper. Puree until smooth. Transfer to a bowl. Cover a set aside.
PRESENTATION
Toss the clean salad with the dressing. Divide the salad between the cold plates, and arrange in the center of the plates. Roll slices of smoked salmon.
Divide between the plates and arrange on top of the lettuce. Serve with French bread.

Smoked trout chowder

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:30 minutes

Ingredients

2 tbsp butter
2 celery stalks, chopped
2 medium carrots, chopped
1 onion, chopped
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
3 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, cut into 1/2 inch cubes
1/4 cup dry white wine
3 cups vegetable broth
1 1/2 cups milk
1 tsp herbes de Provence
1/2 cup cream
200 g smoked trout or salmon fillet, skin discarded, flaked
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

preparation

Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add celery, carrots and onion stirring frequently until carrots start to soften, about 5 min. Sprinkle with flour and salt. Mix well.
Add potatoes, wine, broth, milk and herbes de Provence. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer, partially covered, until potatoes are tender, about 15 min. Stir in cream and trout. Continue simmering for 2 min. Ladle into bowls and top with parsley
just before serving.

Smoky halibut chowder with charred corn

Serves: 5

Preparation time:15 minutes

Cooking time:30 minutes

If halibut isn’t available (or too pricey), choose another white-flesh fish such as cod or haddock. Clam juice can be found alongside canned fish in the grocery store.

Ingredients

2 cobs corn, shucked
3 tbsp (45 mL) unsalted butter
1 tbsp (15 mL) olive oil
1 small onion, finely diced
2 stalks celery, finely diced
1 large Yukon gold potato, peeled,
cut into 1/4-inch (5-mm) dice
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp (2 mL) salt
1/4 cup (60 mL) all-purpose flour
1 cup (250 mL) dry white wine
3 cups (750 mL) vegetable broth
1/2 cup (125 mL) bottled clam juice
3/4 lb (340 g) halibut, cut into
large bite-size chunks
1/4 lb (115 g) smoked trout, flaked
into bite-size pieces
1/2 cup (125 mL) heavy cream (35%)
1/4 cup (60 mL) chopped dill

preparation

1. Preheat grill to high. Clean and oil grate.
2. Grill corn, turning occasionally, until charred and cooked, 8 to 10 minutes. Transfer to a plate. When cool enough to handle, slice kernels off cob and set aside.
3. Melt butter and oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes. Add celery,
potatoes, garlic, corn and salt. Cook, stirring, until garlic is fragrant, about 2 minutes. Sprinkle in flour and cook, 1 minute. Add wine and cook, stirring, until almost all liquid has been absorbed. Pour in vegetable broth and clam juice. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, until potatoes are tender and chowder thickens slightly, 10 to 12 minutes.
4. Stir in halibut pieces and cook until halibut is barely cooked, 2 to 3 minutes. Gently stir in flaked smoked trout and cream, cook until warmed through, 3 minutes. Remove from heat. Serve sprinkled with dill and crackers on side.

Snow Pea fennel and Enoki Mushroom Salad

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 30 minutes

Cooking time:40 minutes

Ingredients

1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons silken tofu
2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 1/2 teaspoons tamari or soy sauce
1 teaspoon unseasoned rice vinegar
1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon finely grated peeled fresh ginger
1/4 teaspoon Asian sesame oil
Salt
1 cup snow peas (3 ounces)
1 fennel bulb, sliced
1/4 cup cut chives (in 1-inch lengths)
2 ounces enoki mushrooms
2 tablespoons chopped chervil or flat-leaf parsley
2 tablespoons chopped basil

preparation

In a blender, puree the tofu with the olive oil, tamari, rice vinegar, lemon juice, ginger and sesame oil. Scrape the dressing into a bowl and season with salt.
In a small saucepan of salted boiling water, blanch the snow peas for 30 seconds. Drain and pat dry, then slice lengthwise into thin strips.
Steam the sliced fennel for 10-12 minutes. Drain and cool.
In a large bowl, toss the fennel with the snow peas, chives, enoki mushrooms, chervil and basil. Add the tofu dressing and toss again. Transfer to plates and serve.
MAKE AHEAD
The dressing can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Stir the dressing before using.
NOTES

Socca Farinata torta di ceci cecina

Serves: 4

Preparation time:20 minutes

Cooking time:20 minutes

This is a variation of the renowed Provence passaladière and is made of chickpea flour, water and olive oil. The pancakes are a specialty from Nice in France and neighboring Liguria, in Italy where they are called farinata

Ingredients

2 cups (300g) cherry tomatoes, halved
5 1/2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for drizzling
salt and black pepper
1 3/4 lbs (800g) white onions, cut into thin rings
2 tbsp thyme leaves
1/2 tsp white wine vinegar
1 3/4 cups (230g) chickpea flour
2 cups (450ml) water
2 egg whites
crème fraîche to serve

preparation

Toss the cherry tomatoes with some olive oil and salt and pepper. Roast them, cut side up, at 275°F for about 25 minutes. You don;t want them to dry out completely.
Chop the thyme leaves and toss with the thinly sliced white onions adding some olive oil, salt and pepper.
Put this in a large pan and cook on high for about a minute, then reduce the heat to low and cook for about 25 minutes until the onion is light brown and sweet.
Mix in 1/2 teaspoon of white wine vinegar.
When the tomatoes are cooked, set them aside. Increase the oven temperature to 325F.

Make the Socca batter with your chickpea flour.
Combine 1 3/4 cups chickpea flour, 2 cups water, 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil and 3/4 teaspoon salt plus a grind of pepper in a bowl and whisk by hand until smooth and well combined.

In a separate bowl, whisk two egg whites to soft peaks and then gently fold them into the batter. Now line a baking sheet with parchment and set aside to put your pancakes on as you make them.

Use a small 6″ pan to fry the pancakes or a regular non-stick frying pan, keeping the pancakes about 6 ” in diameter. Put a bit of olive oil in the pan, the pour the batter about 1/4 ” thick and then just wait for the bubble to start appearing on the top. Give it a flip and cook for about another minute and pop onto the parchment lined cookie sheet. Make the rest of the pancakes (4-6 total) and then put them all in the oven for 5 minutes.

Top the pancakes generously with the caramelized onion and then add the tomatoes. You can warm this in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
The crème fraîche can be served on the side.

Soft polenta

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 10 minutes

Cooking time:10 minutes

Ingredients

3 cups chicken stock
2 teaspoons butter
coarse salt
white pepper
1 cup quick cooking polenta
1/4 cup creme fraiche

preparation

Place stock in medium saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a boil. Add butter and salt and pepper to taste.
Slowly add polenta, stirring constantly to keep lumps from forming. Lower heat and cook, stirring constantly, for 10 minutes, or until polenta is thickened and cooked.
Remove from heat and whip in the creme fraiche. Season to taste.

Soft potato ravioli with truffle pan sauce

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 40 minutes

Cooking time:20 minutes

Ingredients

4 cups rich chicken stock
1 cup mirepoix (finely diced carrots, onion and celery)
3 cloves garlic peeled
1/3 cup truffle butter
2 pounds russet potatoes
2 teaspoons chopped onion
3 ounces fresh soft goat cheese
2 teaspoons chopped parsley
salt and ground white pepper
2 teaspoons flour
2 large eggs
4 12-by-8-inch fresh pasta
1 medium black truffle
2 teaspoons minced fresh chive

preparation

Combine stock, mirepoix, and 1 clove of garlic in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Bring to a boil. Lower heat and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until reduced by half. Strain through a fine sieve, discarding solids. Stir in truffle butter. Reserve and keep hot in a small pan.
Peel and dice potatoes. Place in a medium saucepan with cold water to cover over medium heat. Add the remaining 2 garlic cloves, the onion and salt to taste and bring to a boil. Lower heat and simmer until potatoes are soft. Drain well.
Put potatoes through a ricer. Add goat cheese, parsley, salt and pepper to taste and beat to combine. Cover and set aside.
Lightly flour a baking sheet and set side. Whisk eggs in a bowl. Set aside.
Working with one pasta sheet at a time, cut out 50 circles with a 2-inch round cookie cutter.
Cover pasta disks to keep them soft. Place 10 discs on a clean flat surface.
Brush with egg wash. Place a heaping tablespoon in the center of each disc. Cover with another pasta disc. Push the edges to seal the pasta around the filling.
Crimp edges to from a tight seal. Place on a baking sheet and let dry. Continue making raviolis as above until you have 25. Slice the truffle into paper thin slices.
Cook raviolis in salted boiling water for 4 minutes in two batches. Remove from water with slotted spoon or wire strainer.
Place 4 raviolis in each of 6 warm soup plates. Place truffle slices over raviolis. Add chives to reserved hot sauce. Spoon equal amount of sauce over each plate.

Spaghetti squash pesto with tomatoes

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:20 minutes

Squash can be prepared in advance.

Ingredients

1 small spaghetti squash
20 large basil leaves
2 cloves of garlic
1/4 cup olive oil
4 tbsp Parmigiano-Reggiano
salt and fresh pepper
8 cherry tomatoes, diced

preparation

Cut squash in half lengthwise, scoop out seeds and fibers. Place in a microwave safe dish and cover. Microwave 8-9 minutes. Can also be baked at 350 degrees for one hour. When done, scoop out flesh with a fork into a large bowl.

In an electric blender combine basil, garlic, olive oil, Parmesan cheese, salt a pepper and puree until smooth.

Combine pesto with 4 cups spaghetti squash (save any remaining squash for another recipe). Add tomatoes and season with additional salt and pepper. Serve.

Spaghetti with creamy garlic and leeks

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:1 hour

Creamy and garlicy; the leeks add a mellow onion flavor.

Ingredients

2 Tbs. unsalted butter
1 Tbs. extra-virgin olive oil
6 medium leeks (light-green and white parts only), halved and sliced crosswise into 1/2-inch pieces (10 cups)
10 medium cloves garlic, halved
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
1/2 cup dry white wine
1 cup lower-salt chicken broth
12 oz. dried spaghetti
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 oz. grated Pecorino Romano (1/3 cup)
1/4 cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley

preparation

Heat the butter and oil in a 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat until the butter has melted.
Add the leeks, garlic, 1/2 tsp. salt, and 1/4 tsp. pepper and cook, stirring often, until the leeks begin to brown, 3 to 5 minutes.
Add the wine and simmer until reduced by half, about 1 minute. Add the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
Reduce the heat to low and press a 12-inch round piece of parchment over the leek mixture to cover completely.
Cover the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until the leeks are very soft but not falling apart and the garlic is very soft, about 40 minutes.
Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water.
Uncover the skillet and remove the parchment.
Add the cream and cook, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3 minutes.
Add the cooked pasta and toss. Off the heat, stir in the cheese and parsley. Season to taste with salt and pepper, and serve.

Spanakopita spinach pie in puff pastry

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:40 minutes

This delicious recipe is really easy to put together!
The puff pastry is much easier to work with than phyllo dough, so it is prepared fairly quickly.

Ingredients

3 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 medium onions, chopped
3 garlic cloves, chopped
2 (10 ounce) boxes frozen chopped spinach, thawed & squeezed dry
1 cup Gruyere cheese, grated
4 eggs, extra large, beaten
1 tablespoon dry breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
1 teaspoon salt
3/4 teaspoon white pepper
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
2 sheets frozen puff pastry, thawed
1 large egg, beaten with 1 tbsp water

preparation

Preheat oven to 375. Line a baking sheet with parchment (preferable) but you can use aluminum foil with a light spray of cooking oil.
2
Melt butter and cook onions for a few minutes, until soft. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
3
Beat eggs in medium bowl. Add cooked onion, spinach, cheese and bread crumbs. Add salt, pepper, & nutmeg. Mix well with fork.
4
Place one unfolded sheet of puff pastry on the parchment or sprayed aluminum foil. Spread the spinach mixture over the pastry, leaving a border of one inch all around the edges. Keep the spinach flat; do not pile high.
5
Brush the edges with the egg wash made with the last egg. Cover with the second sheet of pastry that has been slightly flattened with a rolling pin to one inch bigger than the first sheet. (This ensures all the spinach will be covered). Press edges together with fingertips or fork, making sure mixture is sealed well. Brush just the top with egg wash, careful not to drip any down the sides. Cut a few slits in the top with a sharp knife to allow steam to escape.
6
Bake 30-40 minutes, until golden brown. Can be served hot or at room temperature.

Spanish fish stew

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:50 minutes

This is a rich seafood stew from the Basque country in France. What makes this stew special is a combination of seafood, hot and sweet paprika as well as a combination of herbs.
Good fish stock is ideal for this recipe, but you could substituted with chicken stock or vegetable stock.
Use baby octopus, striped bass, shrimp and bay scallops or mussels, crabmeat or any type of firm fish.

Ingredients

1 lb baby octopus
1 lb firm white fish, such as seabass
1/2 lb shrimp
1/2 lb bay scallops
1/4 cup olive oil
2 chopped medium onions
2 chopped celery stalks
3 chopped garlic cloves
1 chopped green pepper
1 chopped red bell pepper
1 t. hot paprika or Espelette pepper
1 T. sweet paprika
1 wineglass full of dry white wine
1 qt. fish stock (or chicken, or vegetable stock)
5 Italian plum tomatoes, chopped and seeded
6 chopped sage leaves
1 T. chopped fresh rosemary
2 T. chopped fresh parsley
1 T. chopped basil
Salt and pepper to taste
Lemon juice

preparation

Cut the octopus into large pieces. Slice the fish into 1-2 inch cubes. Peel the shrimp and wash the scallops. Toss each of them with some salt and set aside separately.
Heat the olive oil in a Dutch oven or large stew pot over medium-high heat for a minute or two, then add the onion and celery. Saute for 3-4 minutes, then add the green and red bell peppers and the baby octopus.

Saute the octopus, peppers and onion for a minute or two, then add the garlic and mix well. Cook for one minute, then turn the heat up all the way and add the white wine.Mix well, and add the hot and sweet paprika and mix again. Let the mixture boil fiercely until half the wine is boiled away.Add the chopped sage and rosemary, then the fish stock. stir and bring to a boil. Turn the heat down to a simmer and let this cook for 35-40 minutes.Test for salt and add if needed. Test a piece of octopus: If it is tender, proceed. If not, cook a bit longer.Once the octopus is tender, add the tomatoes, the shrimp, fish and scallops, then add half the parsley. Cook this at a simmer for 4-5 minutes.Add the rest of the parsley and the basil. Stir to combine and serve.

Spanish mussels

Serves: 5

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:25 minutes

Ingredients

5 pints large mussels
1/2 cup ground almonds
1/2 cup pine nuts
2 garlic cloves, peeled
1 tablespoon chopped parsley
1 teaspoon paprika
12 peppercorns
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup chopped onion
1 tablespoon tomato paste
salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper to taste

preparation

Sort, scrape, wash the mussels, discarding any that do not close. Steam them in a cup of water, in a large kettle. Drain mussels and reserve the cooking liquid. Remove the empty half shell from each mussel, and discard, leaving the mussel attached to other half shell.
In a food processor combine the ground almonds, pine nuts, crushed garlic, parsley, paprika, peppercorns and half of the oil. Mix to a thick paste.
In a medium pot, brown the onion in the remaining oil. Stir in the blended paste, and mix over a brisk fire, while stirring. Add the tomato paste and thin sauce with reserved mussel juice to obtain a thick sauce. Season to taste.
Loosen each mussel from the shell. Arrange on a serving dish. Fill each mussel with the sauce. Serve hot.

Spicy coriander chicken salad

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 30 minutes

Cooking time:20 minutes

Ingredients

1/4 cup unsalted pumpkin seeds
2 medium poblano chilies
2 teaspoons olive oil
1 1/4 pounds skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup dry white wine
3 ounces jicama, peeled and cut into 1-by-1/4-inch matchsticks
1 jalapeño or serrano chile, seeded and finely chopped
3 tablespoons fresh coriander, coarsely chopped
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sour cream

preparation

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Toast the pumpkin seeds on a baking sheet until golden brown.
Roast the poblanos over a gas flame or under the broiler as close to the heat as possible, turning frequently, until charred all over. Transfer to a paper bag and let steam for 10 minutes. Peel the poblanos and discard the stems, seeds and ribs. Finely dice the poblanos.
Heat the oil. Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Cook until well browned. Add the wine, cover and simmer until the chicken is cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and let cool. Cut the chicken into strips and and transfer to a bowl. Stir in the poblanos, jicama, serrano, 1/4 cup of the pumpkin seeds and three tablespoons of coriander.

Combine mayonnaise and the sour cream. Add to the chicken salad and toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper.
Sprinkle the remaining 1 tablespoon of pumpkin seeds and 1 teaspoon chopped coriander over the salad. Serve with baby lettuce and lime wedges.

Spicy edamame burgers

Serves: 10

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:10 minutes

They freeze well.
Serve as mini cakes as hors d'oeuvre, appetizers or main meal.

Ingredients

1 lb shelled edamame thawed or fresh
1 ½ cups cooked chickpeas or 1 15-oz. can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
4 ounces (110 g) sliced mushrooms, shiatake or crimini
1/3 cup water
4 garlic cloves, peeled
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon low salt soy sauce
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 tablespoon chickpea flour or cornstarch
Oil, for frying

preparation

Combine the edamame, chickpeas, mushrooms, water, garlic, cumin, soy sauce and salt and pepper in a food processor and process until smooth. Transfer into a large bowl.
Add the flour and mix well
Place the bowl in the refrigerator for 20 to 30 minutes to make it easier to handle when forming the patties.
Shape mixture into 10 patties.Dust both sides of the patties with chickpea flour or cornstarch.
Heat the oil in a sauté pan and fry the patties for 4 to 5 minutes on each sides, or until golden brown on both sides.
Serve on top of a spinach sald, or on a toasted bun.

Spicy seared lemongrass tofu

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 30 minutes

Cooking time:45 minutes

Ingredients

Tofu marinade:

5 tablespoons, about 3 lemon grass stalks, finely chopped
1 tablespoon minced ginger
2 teaspoons Sambal oelek (chili paste)
1 1/2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 teaspoon turmeric
2 teaspoons sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt

1 pound tofu, firm, pressed and drained, cut into 3/4 inch cubes
3 tablespoons soybean oil or olive oil
1 yellow onion, thinly sliced lengthwise
2 teaspoons minced garlic
2 tablespoons chopped roasted peanuts,
2/3 cup Asian basil leaves (halve large leaves)
5 cups cooked farro wheat and brown basmati rice
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 cup sliced Wood ear mushrooms
1 cup sliced brown mushrooms
3 tablespoon shallots, minced
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 1/2 cups cooked Chinese long beans, cut into 2 inches
salt and pepper to taste

1 cup micro greens (cilantro, baby spinach and arugala)
1/4 cup lemon grass vinaigrette (recipe below)
1/4 cup fried shallots (recipe below)

To serve:
Place a portion of the tofu on top of the rice. Toss the micro greens with the lemon grass vinaigrette. Place on top of the tofu. Garnish with the fried shallots.
Drizzle the dish with a little lemon grass vinaigrette and sprinkle with the remaining peanuts.

Lemongrass Vinaigrette

Yield: 1 cup
8 Lemon grass stalks, fleshy bottom third only, minced
1 cup seasoned rice wine vinegar
2 tablespoons sugar
1/4 cup fresh lime juice
2 tablespoons Thai bird chile, minced
2 tablespoons Fish sauce

Fried Shallots

Yield: 2/3 cup
Ingrediends
1/2 cup shallots, cut crosswise into 1/8 inch thick slices
1 cup vegetable oil

preparation

Pound the lemon grass and ginger with a mortar and pestle to pulverize. Add the sambal oelek, soy sauce, turmeric, sugar, and salt, and mix well to form a paste. Add the tofu and turn gently to coat evenly. Marinate for 30 minutes or longer.
Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a small sauce pot over low heat. Add the onions and garlic. Season with salt. Let cook covered 1 minute, add 1 tablespoon water, and continue to cook, covered, until the onions are translucent and soft—approximately 5 to 8 minutes. Set aside.
Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large non-stick frying pan over medium heat. Add the marinated tofu (there should be enough room in the pan for all the tofu pieces to be in a single layer). Shake pan slightly and let the tofu brown all over, using chopsticks or a wooden spoon to turn the pieces periodically so they cook evenly. Cook, uncovered, until tofu is lightly browned. Remove from heat and transfer to a heated platter. Set aside.
Add 1 tablespoon oil to frying pan and toss in the onion mixture. Cook over medium heat until onion is tender. Add tofu to warm. Adjust seasoning with a pinch of salt and sugar. Add half of the peanuts and Thai basil leaves. Remove from heat.

For the farro or rice:
Heat a sauté pan over high heat and add oil. When the oil is hot, add the mushrooms and sauté until just tender. Add the garlic, shallots, and long beans, and cook until hot and aromatic. Add the cooked farro or rice to the mushrooms and beans and divide between 6 individual serving plates.

To serve:
Place a portion of the tofu on top of the rice. Toss the micro greens with the lemon grass vinaigrette. Place on top of the tofu. Garnish with the fried shallots.
Drizzle the dish with a little lemon grass vinaigrette and sprinkle with the remaining peanuts.

Lemongrass Vinaigrette

In a small saucepan, bring the lemon grass, vinegar, and sugar to a boil over high heat. Reduce the heat to medium and boil until the liquid is reduced by about half, about 20 to 25 minutes.
Remove from the heat and strain, discarding the lemon grass. Add the remaining vinaigrette ingredients, mix well, and refrigerate until ready to serve. Note: For a vegetarian version of this sauce, replace the fish sauce with soy sauce.

Fried Shallots

Spread the shallots out on paper towels and allow to air dry for 30 minutes.
Combine the shallots and oil in a skillet and bring to a slow boil. Reduce the heat to low and cook until the shallots are golden, about 15 minutes. Stir so the shallots brown evenly.
Remove with a slotted spoon or strain the oil through a wire-mesh sieve. Transfer the shallots to a plate or tray lined with paper towels. Discard the oil or save it for later use in stir-fries. Once cool, the shallots are ready to use. If stored in a jar with a tight lid at room temperature, the shallots will keep up to 1 week.

Spinach and chickpeas

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 30 minutes

Cooking time:10 minutes

If cooking the dried beans, just cover them 2 to 3 inches of water and cook them 3 hours. Cooking time can vary widely in slow-cookers so allot more time than you might need.Cook them the day or days before and let them cool in their cooking water, which is then by then very flavorful.

Ingredients

1/2 pound (230 grams) dried chickpeas, cooked until soft and tender or two 15-ounce cans of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
6 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound (450 grams) spinach, washed
A 1-inch slice from a country loaf bread (2.5 ounces or 75 grams), crusts removed and cut inset small cubes
1/2 cup tomato sauce
3 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
Pinch of red pepper flakes
1 1/2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Lemon juice, to taste

preparation

Place a large saucepan over medium heat and add half the olive oil. When it is hot, add the spinach with a pinch of salt (in batches, if necessary) and stir well. Remove when the leaves are just tender, drain in a colander and set aside.

Heat 2 more tablespoons olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Fry the bread for about 5 minutes or until golden brown all over, then the remaining tablespoon of oil and the garlic, cumin and pepper. Cook for 1 minute more or until the garlic is nutty brown.

Transfer to a food processor, blender or mortar and pestle along with the vinegar, and mash to a paste. Return the mixture to the pan and add the drained chickpeas and tomato sauce. Stir until the chickpeas have absorbed the flavors and are hot. Season with salt and pepper.

If the consistency is a little thick, add some water. Add the spinach and cook until it is hot. Check for seasoning and serve with paprika on top.

Spinach and pasta salad

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:10 minutes

Ingredients

6 cups Farfalle pasta
3/4 cup sliced red pepper
4 green onions, sliced
2/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
2/3 cup shredded fresh basil
2 cups lightly packed fresh spinach
8 cherry tomatoes, quartered

Dressing:
1/3 cup olive oil
3 tablespoons white wine vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1 large clove garlic, minced

preparation

Cook pasta until firm but tender. Drain and rinse under cold water; drain again very well.
Whisk together oil, vinegar, mustard, salt, pepper and garlic. Add pasta, red pepper, onions, feta cheese and half of the shredded basil; toss gently. Stack spinach leaves and roll up tightly; cut crosswise into thin strips.
Add to salad along with tomatoes and remaining basil; toss gently.

Spinach and ricotta naan pizzas

Serves: 4

Preparation time:20 minutes

Cooking time:20 minutes

Ingredients

1 tsp (5 mL) olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp minced fresh ginger
1 tsp cumin seeds
1 onion, thinly sliced
1/4 tsp each salt and pepper
1 pkg (227 g) fresh baby spinach, coarsely chopped
2 tsp lemon juice
4 garlic naan or plain naan
2 plum tomatoes, diced
1/2 cup (125 mL) extra-smooth ricotta cheese or grated mozzarella

preparation

In skillet, heat oil over medium heat; cook garlic, ginger and cumin seeds, stirring, for 1 minute. Add onion, salt and pepper; cook, stirring occasionally, until onion is softened, about 4 minutes.

Stir in spinach; cook, stirring often, until wilted and no liquid remains, about 5 minutes. Stir in lemon juice; remove from heat.

Arrange naan on large rimless baking sheet; divide spinach mixture among naan. Top with tomatoes; dollop ricotta cheese over top. Bake in 425 F (220 C) oven until bottoms are golden, about 15 minutes.

Change it up: Grilled Spinach and Ricotta Naan Pizzas
Prepare pizzas as directed. Place on greased grill over medium heat; close lid and grill until bottoms are crisp and golden, 5 to 8 minutes.

Spinach-feta strudel

Serves: 8

Preparation time: 25 minutes

Cooking time:45 minutes

Ingredients

For Strudel:
1/2 cup dry bread crumbs
1/2 cup butter, melted
1/4 cup water
12 sheets frozen phyllo pastry, thawed
1 tablespoon sesame seeds

For Filling:
2 pounds fresh spinach
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 onions, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
3 eggs
1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
1/4 teaspoon each nutmeg and pepper
12 ounces feta cheese
1/3 cup pine nuts, toasted
1/4 cup dry bread crumbs

preparation

Filling:
Wash spinach; shake off excess water. Cook the spinach with just the water clinging to leaves, turning often, until wilted. Chill under cold running water. Press out water; chop and reserve. In large skillet, heat oil over medium heat; cook onions and garlic, stirring occasionally until tender.
In large bowl, beat eggs; stir in onion mixture, spinach, dill, nutmeg and pepper. Mix in feta, pine nuts and bread crumbs.
Strudel:
Place bread crumbs in bowl. In another bowl, stir butter with water. Place clean tea towel on work surface. Place one sheet of phyllo on towel, keeping remainder covered with plastic wrap and damp towel to prevent drying out.
Brush phyllo with butter mixture; sprinkle with 2 teaspoons bread crumbs. Repeat with 5 more layers to make 6 layers. Arrange half of the filling along one long side of phyllo, leaving about 1-inch uncovered at each end.
Using towel to help and starting at filling side, roll strudel once; brush with butter.
Fold in ends to enclose filling. Continue rolling and brushing with butter until to other side, using towel or spatulas to help. Gently transfer, seam side down, to parchment paper-lined baking sheet.
Repeat with remaining phyllo and filling. Brush any remaining butter over tops. Slash each almost through to filling into 8 pieces. Sprinkle with sesame seeds.
Bake in 350 degree oven for 40 to 45 minutes, or until golden and crisp.

Split pea soup

Serves: 6

Preparation time:30 minutes

Cooking time:30 minutes

Ingredients

6 Tbsp butter or olive oil, divided
2 cups chopped leeks, white and green parts
2 cups (½-inch) diced carrots
1½ cups chopped yellow onion
1 Tbsp minced garlic
1 lb dried green split peas
8 cups chicken or vegetable stock
1 smoked ham hock
2 tsp kosher salt
1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
8 fresh thyme sprigs, tied with kitchen twine
2 large bay leaves
12 oz smoked sausage, halved lengthwise and sliced diagonally into ¼-inch-thick pieces
Minced fresh parsley, for garnish

preparation

Heat ¼ cup of the butter oroil in a large ot or Dutch oven over medium-high. Add leeks, carrots and onion; cook 8 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in garlic; cook 1 minute. Stir in peas to coat; cook 1 minute. Add stock, 2 cups water, ham hock, salt, pepper, thyme and bay leaves. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer, partially covered, 1¼ hours, stirring occasionally, or until peas are very tender and falling apart. (Stir bottom of the pot to be sure soup doesn’t stick.)
Discard thyme, bay leaves and ham hock. Transfer 2 cups soup to a food processor fitted with a steel blade; puree. Return puree to pot. Stir in more stock or water if soup is too thick.
Heat remaining 2 Tbsp butter or oil in a medium saute pan over medium. Add sausage; cook 5–6 minutes or until browned, tossing occasionally. Serve soup garnished with sausage and parsley.

Spring green risotto

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:40 minutes

Recipe adaptation and courtesy of Courtesy Ina Garten from her new cookbook Back to Basics.

Ingredients

1- 1/2 tablespoons good olive oil
1-1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 cups chopped leeks, white and light green parts (2 leeks)
1 cup chopped fennel
1-1/2 cups Arborio rice
2/3 cup dry white wine
4 to 5 cups simmering chicken stock
1 pound thin asparagus
5 ounces frozen peas, defrosted, or 1 1/2 cups shelled fresh peas
5 ounces fava beans
1 tablespoon freshly grated lemon zest (2 lemons)
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
1/3 cup mascarpone cheese, preferably Italian
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
3 tablespoons minced fresh chives, plus extra for serving

preparation

Heat the olive oil and butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the leeks and fennel and saute for 5 to 7 minutes, until tender. Add the rice and stir for a minute to coat with the vegetables, oil, and butter. Add the white wine and simmer over low heat, stirring constantly, until most of the wine has been absorbed. Add the chicken stock, 2 ladles at a time, stirring almost constantly and waiting for the stock to be absorbed before adding more. This process should take 25 to 30 minutes.

Meanwhile, cut the asparagus diagonally in 1 1/2-inch lengths and discard the tough ends. Blanch in boiling salted water for 4 to 5 minutes, until al dente. Drain and cool immediately in ice water. (If using fresh peas and fresh fava beans, blanch them in boiling water for a few minutes until the starchiness is gone.)

When the risotto has been cooking for 15 minutes, drain the asparagus and add it to the risotto with the peas, lemon zest, 2 teaspoons salt, and 1 teaspoon pepper. continue cooking and adding stock, stirring almost constantly, until the rice is tender but still firm.

Whisk the lemon juice and mascarpone together in a small bowl. When the risotto is done, turn off the heat and stir in the mascarpone mixture plus the Parmesan cheese and chives. set aside off the heat for a few minutes, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and serve hot with a sprinkling of chives and more Parmesan cheese.

Squash and sage risotto

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 30 minutes

Cooking time:40 minutes

Ingredients

7 cups vegetable broth
1/2 pound butternut squash, cut into cubes (1 2/3 cups)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/4 cup minced shallots
1 3/4 cups arborio rice
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup dry white wine
3 cups chopped swiss chard leaves
3/4 cup chopped canned plum tomatoes
2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage
2 tablespoons chopped flat-leaf parsley
1/4 cup grated soy Parmesan

preparation

Bring broth to boil.
Drop squash into boiling broth, reduce heat and simmer until squash is tender, but still firm.
Remove squash with slotted spoon. Reduce heat and let broth simmer.
In deep skillet, combine oil and shallots, stir to cook without browning. Add rice and salt. Stir until rice is coated with oil.
Add wine and bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring, until rice absorbs wine.
Ladle 1/2 cup of broth into skillet and stir until absorbed. Continue with remaining broth, adding 1/2 cup at a time and letting each addition be absorbed by rice before adding more liquid, about 25 minutes total.
Add chard and stir until wilted. Stir in squash, tomatoes, sage and parsley. Add salt and pepper to taste. Stir in cheese and serve hot.

Steamed broccoli

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Cooking time:5 minutes

Broccoli can be prepared ahead by this method. Refrigerated steamed broccoli can be reheated by tossing in a skillet on medium high with a scant amount of oil or butter, or by means of a brief session in the microwave. Steamed broccoli can also be served at room temperature or chilled and used in a salad.
Optional garnishes should be of a contrasting color: roasted sesame seeds, minced white parts of green onion, etc.

VARIATION: Sometimes I steam another vegetable along with the broccoli. Yellow onion, sliced thick, works particularly well. Carrot sticks, radish halves, daikon sticks, summer squash all work well. Cut the additional vegetable to pieces about the same size as the broccoli pieces, or smaller.
Recipe adapted from http://www.stephencooks.com/

Ingredients

1 medium bunch broccoli - about 9 ounces
2 - 4 tablespoons fresh herbs (optional), minced (suggestions: tarragon, thyme, dill, basil, oregano)
2 green onions (optional), chopped
2 or3 cloves garlic, (optional), minced
1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
Balsamic vinegar to taste (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste

preparation

1. Trim broccoli: cut the last 1/4 inch from the end of the stalks and use a paring knife to trim any gnarly stumps or little branches from the stalks.

2. Using a vegetable peeler, peel the tough outer skin from the stalks, starting at the base of the flower and going to the end of the stalks. Some larger stalks have a fairly thick skin and may need two passes of the peeler. (You can tell when you got it all when the inner flesh of the stalk is exposed -- it has a softer wet-green look, with no fibers visible and a texture like a cut radish or potato.)

3. Cut the broccoli pieces crosswise into three pieces: the flower and two pieces of stalk about 2 1/2 - 3" long. Divide the flowers from each other as necessary and halve or quarter the stalk pieces lengthwise so that the pieces are all about the same size (for uniform cooking).

4. Place the broccoli in a steamer basket in a pan with about 3/4" of rapidly boiling water. Cover tightly and steam for 5 min.

5. Remove broccoli to a bowl. Add any of the optional ingredients you are using and toss with tongs briefly to mix.

6. Season to taste and allow to rest, partially covered, for a few minutes.

Steamed mussels in white wine

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 30 minutes

Cooking time:25 minutes

Ingredients

5 pounds fresh mussels
1 tablespoon fresh parsley
1 1/2 cups white wine
1 tablespoon chopped shallots
1 teaspoon butter
1 teaspoon flour
1/4 teaspoon saffron
2 egg yolks

preparation

Scrub and debeard mussels. In a large kettle, combine parsley, white wine, and shallots, and bring to a boil. Steam the mussels in the boiling liquid until opened. Drain and save the cooking stock. Remove only top shells of mussels and discard.
Arrange mussels in ovenproof serving casserole. Strain cooking liquid through cheese cloth. Pour in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
In a small saucepan, melt butter, and add flour to make roux. Stir roux in stock and whisk to thicken. Add the saffron. Pour a little sauce into egg yolks. Mix well and stir into remaining sauce.
Heat sauce but do not boil. Season to taste with salt, pepper.
Do not add salt since the mussel stock is salty. Pour sauce over the hot mussels. Serve immediately.

Stir-fried pork tenderloin

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:20 minutes

Ingredients

2 carrots
8 slices peeled ginger, 1/8-inch thick
1/2 pound snow peas
2 scallions
2 pounds pork tenderloin
1/3 cup peanut oil
4 cloves garlic, chopped
2 tablespoons red wine (pinot noir or Burgundy wine)
1/4 cup soy sauce

preparation

Cut the carrots into julienne strips. Blanch in salted boiling water until barely tender. Drain and set aside.
Cut 8 slices of ginger on the diagonal, then cut into julienne strips. Snap off the stems from the snow peas and remove the string.
Chop the scallions including some of the green top. Cut the pork into thin slices and then into 1/4 inch strips. Stir-fry.
Heat the oil in a frying pan over high heat. Add the pork and stir while cooking. After 1 minute, add the blanched carrots, the snow peas, and the ginger. Stir and cook for 5 minutes. Add the scallions and the garlic and then the wine and the soy sauce.
Simmer for 5 minutes.

Stuffed artichokes

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Cooking time:50 minutes

Ingredients

4 large artichokes sausage meat
4 bacon slices
1 medium onion, peeled and chopped
1 carrot, peeled and chopped
1 cup stock

preparation

Cut artichoke bottoms flat. Cut leaves across in half. Blanch in boiling water for 15 minutes. Cool, remove inside. Stuff with sausage meat. Cover with bacon slices. Sprinkle onion and carrot over bottom of baking dish. Arrange artichokes on vegetables. Pour stock over. Bake at 350 degrees F. for 40 minutes or until artichokes are tender. Serve hot.

Stuffed eggplant rolls

Serves: 8

Preparation time:30 minutes

Cooking time:50 minutes

Serve with your favorite tomato sauce, cream sauce, or other topping sauce.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon soft butter
1 large eggplant, ends trimmed
2 teaspoons sea salt
1 cup all-purpose flour
3 eggs, beaten
1 cup dried bread crumbs
vegetable oil for frying, or as needed
2 cups ricotta cheese
½ cup grated Romano cheese
1 tablespoon minced garlic
salt and ground black pepper to taste

preparation

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Brush a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter.

Slice eggplant into 1/4-inch thick slices lengthwise; discard the end slices with skin. Lay the eggplant slices on paper towels and sprinkle both sides generously with sea salt. Let slices drain for 30 minutes; rinse and pat dry with paper towels.

Place flour, eggs, and bread crumbs in separate shallow bowls. Dip each eggplant slice in flour and shake off excess; dip into egg and then into bread crumbs.

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat and fry the slices until golden brown, about 5 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels, place on baking sheets, and refrigerate eggplant for 10 minutes.

Mix ricotta cheese, Romano cheese, and garlic in a bowl; season to taste with salt and black pepper. Place a cooled eggplant slice onto a work surface and mound 1/3 to 1/2 cup of cheese mixture in the center; roll up slice and place seam side down into the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with remaining slices and cheese filling.

Bake rolls in the preheated oven until filling is hot, about 25 minutes.

Serve with tomato sauce, cream sauce, or other topping sauce.

Stuffed tomatoes with mussels

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

6 medium ripe tomatoes
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon white pepper
1 pound cooked mussels without shells
3/4 cup mayonnaise
1 teaspoon chopped fresh dill
6 lemon wedges

preparation

Wash tomatoes. Cut off the tops. scoop out insides, and sprinkle cavities with salt and pepper.
Combine mussels with mayonnaise and fill tomatoes.
Sprinkle with dill. Arrange tomatoes on a serving platter. Garnish with lemon wedges.

Summer pasta vegetable salad

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Cooking time:15 minutes

Ingredients

1 package (450g) fusilli or rotini
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cups small zucchini (quartered lengthwise and sliced)
1 clove garlic, minced
4 cups chopped tomatoes
1/4 cup white wine
1/3 cup chopped fresh basil
1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
1/4 cup chopped flat leaf parsley
2 tablespoons chopped fresh marjoram
salt and pepper to taste
freshly grated Parmesan cheese

preparation

Cook pasta until tender but firm; drain and keep hot. Meanwhile, in large skillet over medium heat, heat oil.
Add zucchini and garlic; cook for 5 minutes, stirring frequently. Add tomatoes and wine, cook, stirring frequently, for 5 minutes or until sauce thickens.
Stir in herbs; cook 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Toss sauce with hot pasta.
Serve immediately, with parmesan cheese for sprinkling on top.

Summer salad

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Cooking time:12 minutes

Ingredients

1/2 pound green beans (1-inch length)
1 pound cooked asparagus
2 cooked artichoke bottoms
2 tablespoons snipped chives
1 tablespoon minced parsley
1 tablespoon minced chervil
1 tomato
1 avocado
sherry vinegar mayonnaise

preparation

Cut green beans into 1-inch lengths.
Cook in boiling salted water until tender. Drain.
Cut asparagus into 1-inch lengths.
Cut each artichoke bottom into 6 wedges.
Combine beans, asparagus, artichokes, chives, parsley and chervil with enough mayonnaise to coat.
Peel and thinly slice the tomato.
Peel, pit and thinly slice the avocado.
Arrange the salad on four lettuce lined plates and garnish with tomato and avocado.

Sweet Potato Black Bean Burritos

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:1 hour

Roasting the sweet potatoes can be done ahead of time, simply refrigerate until use and bring the potatoes to room temp (or warm) before assembling the burritos.

Ingredients

2 lg sweet potatoes
salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
1/2 t cumin
3 eggs + 3 egg whites
splash of milk
guacamole (1 avocado's worth, or 1/3 of the recipe)
whole wheat tortillas (8-10)
salsa
goat cheese

preparation

Preheat oven to 350 F. Wash sweet potatoes, poke them with a fork a few times, and wrap them in foil. Place on a cookie sheet and roast for about 1hr, until they're soft and easily pricked with a fork. Set aside and let cool, then cut into a rough dice. Transfer to a bowl and mash with a little salt and freshly ground pepper.

Place black beans into a bowl, season with cumin, salt and freshly ground black pepper. Roughly mash with a fork, or puree in a food processor.

Preheat a large skillet over medium low heat. Add eggs and whites in a small bowl, a splash of milk and a bit of salt and freshly ground pepper. Once the pan is warmed, cook eggs slowly, stirring quite often, until they have just started to set. Turn off the heat.

To assemble burritos, place tortillas in a damp paper towel and microwave for 15-30 seconds.
On each burrito, place 3 to 4 T black bean mash, 1/3 c roasted sweet potatoes, 1/4 of the eggs and 2-3 T guacamole. Wrap up the tortillas to enclose filling, then top with salsa and goat cheese.

Tahiti tuna ceviche

Serves: 6

Preparation time:20 minutes

the national dish of Tahiti, called "poisson cru",is similar to Latin ceviche or Hawaiian poke,the dish is made of raw fish marinated in lime or lemon juice, coconut milk and seasonings and sometimes served as a snack or appetizer.
Poisson cru is made with the freshest of ingredients as found in the islands of Tahiti. Most commonly made with raw fresh tuna.

Ingredients

1 3/4 pounds fresh sushi-grade tuna
8 limes, juiced
1/4 cup drizzled rice wine vinegar
1 tbsp sriracha sauce
1 tsp peeled/grated ginger
1 small white onion
1 medium green bell pepper
1 tomato
1/2 medium cucumber
Kosher salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 cup coconut milk

preparation

Dice the fish into 1/2-inch cubes, rinse with fresh water, drain, and place in a large nonreactive salad bowl.

Squeeze the limes and pour the juice over the fish. Add the rice wine vinegar, sriracha sauce and ginger. Mix well and chill 15 to 20 minutes in the refrigerator.

Cut onion and green pepper into thin slices, and cut tomato into small cubes. Remove seeds from cucumber and cut into thin half-moons.
onions, tomatoes, peppers and cucumbers in bowls

Drain some of the lime juice, add the vegetables and season with salt and pepper.
Five minutes before serving, add the coconut milk. Serve chilled.
Tip
you can substitute tuna with jackfish, halibut, salmon, or snapper.

Talmouses

Serves: 4

Preparation time:20 minutes

Cooking time:35 minutes

Ingredients

50g butter
25g flour
25 cl of milk
2 eggs
150 g Comté cheese, cut into small dice
grated nutmeg
400g puff pastry
2 thin slices of ham (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste

preparation

Make a roux with 25 g of butter and the flour.
Moisten with the milk, mix carefully; quickly bring to the boil and cook for 3 minutes over low heat.

Let the béchamel cool down, mix in one egg yolk, the diced Comté cheese, salt, pepper and nutmeg.

Cut the rolled-out puff pastry into 4 discs 16 cm in diameter

If using ham, Cut the slices of ham in half.

Crack the second egg into a bowl, beat with a fork until golden brown.

Using a brush dipped in this egg wash, brush the edges of the discs of puff pastry.

Place a ½ slice of ham in the center of each disc of dough.

Place on top 1 large spoon, 1/4 - of the cheese preparation.

Bring the discs on three sides towards the center to give a tricorn shape. Seal the three sides well. Gild with egg.

Place each talmouse on the baking sheet, leave to firm in the refrigerator for 15 to 20 minutes.

Heat the remaining butter in a frying pan, sauté the mushrooms, sprinkle with the chopped shallot, salt and pepper, and cook briskly until the water has completely evaporated.

Remove the talmouses from the refrigerator, brush them completely with the egg wash.

Bake in the oven preheated to 240°C - Th 8, until the pastry is flaky and golden, about 35 minutes

If necessary, lower the oven temperature and cover the talmouses with aluminum foil at the end of cooking.

Arrange each talmouse on a warm plates. Serve hot.

Tarka dal lentils

Serves: 4

Preparation time:15 minutes

Cooking time:35 minutes

There are many versions of this north Indian dish, as the name literally means spiced, flavoured lentils. You can also use red lentils for this recipe. There are several Indian words, such as tarka, tadka, vaghaar or phodni, for this essential procedure of tempering foods.

Ingredients

For the ginger-garlic paste

2 tbsp ginger, skin scraped off and flesh chopped
4 cloves garlic, peeled and chopped

For the tarka dal

8 oz mung lentils or red lentils
2 tbsp sunflower oil
1 tsp cumin seeds
1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
2 fresh green chillies, slit in half lengthways and stalks left on
2 tomatoes diced (seeds and all)
1 tsp turmeric
1 tsp garam masala
1 pinch salt
1 handful of fresh coriander (cilantro) leaves, chopped

preparation

Grate ginger and garli or crush them using a mortar and pestle.

Wash the lentils in a sieve under running cold water until the water runs clear. Put them into a saucepan and then pour double the quantity of boiling water over them.
Bring to the boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until very soft, about 30 minutes, adding more boiling water as they absorb what’s in the pan. Ensure that the lentils are submerged at all times. When the lentils are cooked, they should have completely disintegrated and should resemble oat porridge.

Meanwhile, warm the sunflower oil in a separate pan on a high heat and add the cumin seeds. As they begin to crackle and change color, add the ginger-garlic paste and cook for 30 seconds, then add the chillies and cook for a 2 more minutes.
Tip in the tomatoes and cook for 3–4 minutes until soft.
Stir in the turmeric and garam masala, add a little cold water and bring to a bubble.
Carefully pour in the cooked lentils, along with all the cooking liquid (no need to drain) and season with salt. The mixture should have a pouring consistency.
Sprinkle the chopped coriander over, and serve hot with plain boiled rice or rotis.

Tartar of asparagus avocado and tomato

Serves: 4

Preparation time:30 minutes

Cooking time:10 minutes

As a twist add diced smoked salmon or small shrimp to the recipe.

Ingredients

12 medium green asparagus
2 avocados
2 tomatoes
1 shallot
1/2 lemon
1 teaspoon of capers
1 bunch of chervil
1 sprig of tarragon
4 tbsp olive oil
2 tablespoons old wine vinegar
1/2 tsp togarashi seasoning
1 tsp ponzu
salt pepper

preparation

Remove the ends of the asparagus, peel their stems if they are large. Cook them for 8 to 10 minutes (depending on their size) in salted boiling water. Drain them then refresh them under cold water and drain again. Cut the stems into slices and reserve the tips.
Scald the tomatoes for 20 seconds to peel them easily. Seed them and cut the flesh into small dice.
Peel the avocados, cut them in half, remove the pits. Cut the flesh into small cubes and combine with the lemon immediately. Chop the herbs, peel and mince the shallot.
In a bowl, prepare a vinaigrette with the olive oil, vinegar, salt, pepper, togarashi seasoning and ponzu.
In a salad bowl, mix the asparagus rings with the shallot, herbs, capers, diced tomato and avocado.
Season the vegetable tartar with the vinaigrette. Mix then and form 4 small domes on 4 plates.
Decorate with the reserved asparagus tips. Serve the tartareimmediately.

Teriyaki tofu burger

Serves: 1

Preparation time:20 minutes

Cooking time:12 minutes

A thick slab of tofu is pan-fried, basted in salty-sweet teriyaki sauce and served on a toasted bun with cured cukes and spicy mayo. It’s a gloriously messy veggie burger, perfect for people who eschew faux meat. Available at most Asian supermarkets, superior Kikkoman Takumi Original Teriyaki Sauce is worth seeking out.

Ingredients

2-inch (5-cm) piece English cucumber, cut into thin rounds
Salt and sugar to taste
4 tsp (20 mL) mayonnaise
Hot sauce, preferably sriracha, to taste
1 block (397 g) firm tofu
1 1/2 tsp (7 mL) canola oil
2 tbsp (30 mL) teriyaki sauce
1 large burger bun, split

preparation

1. Place cucumber in a small bowl. Season generously with salt and lightly with sugar. Mix well with your fingertips. Set aside. In a ramekin, mix mayo and hot sauce. Set aside.

2. Cut tofu in half through middle so you have two thick burger-like slabs. (Save one slab for another use.) Press tofu firmly between paper towel to extract as much moisture as possible. Season both sides with salt.

3. Heat oil in a small, nonstick frying pan over medium-high heat. Add tofu. Cook until nicely browned, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from heat and drain off oil. Add teriyaki sauce. Turn and baste tofu off heat until well coated.

4. Toast bun and smear both sides with spicy mayo. Place tofu on bottom bun, top with cucumbers and bun top. Serve immediately.

Thai pasta salad with shrimp and vegetables

Serves: 3

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:15 minutes

Ingredients

10 - 12 oz. (400-450 g) fresh Asian-style noodles OR fettuccine-style noodles
1 cup small cooked shrimp, thawed and drained if frozen
1 zucchini, grated with a wide grater or peeled into thin strips with a vegetable peeler
1 tomato, cut into small pieces
1 red or green chili, de-seeded and thinly sliced
1 red and 1 green bell pepper, de-seeded and cut into strips
3 spring (green) onions, sliced
1 cup fresh coriander/cilantro, lightly chopped
1/2 cup fresh basil, lightly chopped
1/3 cup dry roasted peanuts or cashews, unsalted, and left whole or lightly chopped
SALAD DRESSING:
1/3 cup lime juice (about 2 limes, juiced)
4 Tbsp. fish sauce (available at Asian/Chinese stores)
2 Tbsp. soy sauce
2-3 tsp. sugar (adjust to taste)
1-3 tsp. chili sauce OR 1/4 to 1/2 tsp. cayenne pepper OR crushed chili (adjust to taste)
2 cloves garlic, minced

preparation

Prepare noodles according to the directions on the package. Rinse noodles with cold water, drain, and set aside.
Prepare salad dressing by mixing all dressing ingredients together in a cup or small bowl until sugar dissolves. Taste-test for sour/sweetness, adding more sugar as desired. Note that the taste of the dressing will be milder when distributed among the noodles.
Prepare the vegetables and shrimp, and place them in a very large salad or mixing bowl. Add the herbs and nuts. Stir the dressing once more and pour over, tossing well to mix.
Now add the noodles and toss again Once well-tossed, taste-test the noodles, adding more fish sauce if not salty or tasty enough.
You can serve this salad immediately, or cover and place in the refrigerator until ready to eat (this salad will keep for up to 3 days, and makes great workday lunches!).
Garnish with a few extra sprigs of the fresh herbs, plus some chopped peanuts. For extra spicy, Thai chili sauce can be served on the side, either store-bought or my own.

Tikka masala egg wraps

Serves: 2

Preparation time:25 minutes

Cooking time:6 minutes

These hearty breakfast wraps get an aromatic flavour boost from the tikka masala spice and lots of fresh cilantro.

Ingredients

Tikka Masala Spice Mix:

1 tbsp each ground coriander and paprika
1 ½ tsp ground cumin
½ tsp each chili powder, ground ginger and turmeric
¼ tsp each ground nutmeg, cardamom, cinnamon and pepper
1 tbsp butter
1 tbsp tikka masala spice mix

½ small onion, diced
1 large plum tomato, diced
1 clove garlic, minced
½ cup cilantro leaves
4 eggs, whisked
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 large flour tortillas
mango chutney to serve (optional)
cilantro to garnish

preparation

Tikka Masala Spice Mix: In a small bowl, whisk together coriander, paprika, cumin, chili powder, ginger, turmeric, nutmeg, cardamom, cinnamon and pepper.

In a large nonstick skillet, melt half of the butter over medium heat, stir in ½ of spice mix and cook for 30 seconds. Increase heat to high and add half each of the onion, tomato and garlic; cook stirring frequently for 1 minute. Stir in half of the cilantro. Reduce heat to medium-low, pour in half the eggs and sprinkle with half the mozzarella. Cook, without stirring, for 1-2 minutes, until egg is about two-thirds set.

Place a tortilla on top of egg and let cook for 1 minute or until egg adheres to tortilla. Flip to cook tortilla side for 30 seconds. Slide out onto a cutting board and roll up carefully while still hot. Repeat steps to make second wrap.

Cut wraps into 3 pieces each and garnish with cilantro. Serve with mango chutney.

*This tikka spice blend will make about ¼ cup (60 ml). Store extra spice in an airtight container for quick use.

Tip: Make-ahead wraps can be reheated in the microwave for 1-1 ½ minutes or until warmed through.

Tip: Save on prep time by purchasing pre-mixed tikka masala spice, widely available in grocery stores.

Brought to you by: Egg Farmers of Ontario

Tofu bites

Serves: 8

Preparation time:10 minutes

Cooking time:30 minutes

An easy baked tofu recipe that is great on its own or can be used in so many dishes: on salads, in sandwiches, in tacos, on pasta, on nachos, as nuggets, the options are endless, use these everywhere!
The recipe comes from https://itdoesnttastelikechicken.com

Ingredients

1/4 cup (11 g) nutritional yeast
2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil
2 tablespoons (30ml) soy sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
2 blocks (350g each) extra-firm tofu, drained

preparation

1. OVEN: Preheat your oven to 375F (190C). Line 2 large baking sheet with parchment paper.
AIR-FRYER: Preheat your air-fryer to 350F (180C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together the nutritional yeast, olive oil, soy sauce and garlic powder.
3. Break the block of tofu into small chunks and add them to the bowl. (No need to press the tofu first). Toss the tofu well to evenly coat in the sauce mixture.
4. OVEN: Spread the tofu evenly across the baking sheets and bake for about 30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until lightly golden.
AIR-FRYER: add the tofu to the air-fryer and cook for about 20 minutes, shaking halfway through, until lightly golden.
Serve hot or store in an air-tight container in the fridge, or freeze to use later. Great as main, as nuggets, on salads, in sandwiches, in tacos, on pasta, on nachos, the options are endless, use these everywhere!

Tofu patties

Serves: 4

Preparation time:15 minutes

Cooking time:15 minutes

Cooking tips:
❗You may need to press the tofu for 15 minutes to remove excess water.
❗Feel free to add your favourite herbs and spices to the recipe to get your favorite flavour.
❗ For the patties to hold together place patties mixture in to the fridge for 15-30 minutes.

Ingredients

14oz | 400g | 1 block firm tofu
4oz | 130g | 1 small potato
3tbsp brown rice flour or any flour of your choice
1oz | 40g | 3/4 cup grated carrot
2tbsp chopped green onion
1 garlic clove

Seasonings:
1/4tsp chilli flakes
2oz | 60g | 1 cup breadcrumbs, panko, or chickpea crumbs
salt to taste

Dipping sauce ingredients:
1oz | 30g | 1/2 cup parsley or cilantro
1tbsp lemon juice
4oz | 115g | 1/2 cup vegan mayonnaise
black pepper

preparation

Peel and grate potato.
Mash the block of tofu in a bowl. Add the grated potato, flour, grated carrot, green onion and minced garlic.
Season with salt and chilli flakes.
Add the breadcrumbs. Mix well and set aside while making the dipping sauce.
In a blender, combine parsley, lemon juice and vegan mayonnaise and black peppr. Blend until smooth. Transfer to a bowl.

Shape tofu mixture into 3oz, 70g patties about half inch thick.
Coat patties with breadcrumbs.
Heat a little oil in a non stick skillet. Fry tofu patties 5 to 7 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
Top with the prepared sauce and enjoy.

Tofu tourtiere hand pies

Serves: 5

Preparation time:20 minutes

Cooking time:20 minutes

The sunrise-soya.com/recipe is a
kid-friendly recipe packed with loads of flavour. Store leftovers in refrigerator, or freeze for later use.

Ingredients

1lb pkg Extra Firm Tofu , crumbled
4 medium onions , diced
1 tbsp olive oil
1 large celery stalk , diced
2 garlic cloves , minced
1/8 tsp ground cloves
¼ tsp nutmeg
¼ tsp ground sage
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp dried parsley flakes
2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 egg
3 tsp water or milk for egg wash if desired
4 sheets puff pastry, or refrigerated dough , rolled and cut into 5” circles

preparation

Preheat oven to 400F, if baking right away. The filling can be made a day or two in advance and kept in the fridge.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil on medium-high heat. Sauté onions, celery and garlic for 10min., add in cloves, nutmeg and sage, cook additional 5min.
In a food processor, pulse tofu until it is a coarse crumble, add to skillet; add in salt, pepper, parsley, balsamic vinegar and Worcestershire sauce, mix well on low heat for 3min. Remove from heat; pour into a large mixing bowl to cool about 15-20min.
At this point you can refrigerate filling for later use, or if baking right away, continue onto next step.
On lightly floured work surface, roll out dough, cut into 5” circles, reroll remaining dough for more circles. Spoon about 2 tbsp of filling on half of each round. Fold in half and press edges together with fingers or fork to seal.
Whisk egg with water or milk in a small bowl, brush tops of prepared pies.
Bake for 15-20min or until golden brown. Cool 10min. on wire rack.

Tomato aspic

Serves: 8

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Cooking time:5 minutes

Ingredients

4 cups tomato juice
2 cups chicken stock
1/2 teaspoon lemon rind
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon salt
3 envelops unflavored gelatin
3/4 cup water
1 cup diced celery

preparation

In a large saucepan, heat tomato juice and chicken stock until hot. Stir in lemon rind, Worcestershire sauce and salt.
In a small bowl, combine gelatin with water. Set for 5 minutes. Stir in hot tomato mixture. Add celery.
Pour into ring mold or individual decorative molds.
Refrigerate to set. Dip mold in hot water for a few seconds. Unmold on platter or plates.

Tomato confit and marinated tomatoes served on a crispy tart

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 40 minutes

Cooking time:1 hour 30 minutes

Recipe adapted from chef Alain Ducasse
Serve this beautiful starter with Champagne or sparkling wine.
Tomato confit.

Ingredients

Tomato confit
2 1/2 pounds large plum tomatoes, quartered lengthwise, seeds and membranes removed
4 large fresh thyme sprigs
3 garlic cloves, unpeeled
1/2 cup olive oil
1 teaspoon coarse sea salt

Marinated tomatoes
1 pound large plum tomatoes
2 large fresh thyme sprigs
2 garlic cloves, unpeeled
1/2 teaspoon coarse sea salt
1 1/2 cups (or more) olive oil
Crust
1 3/4 cups plus 2 tablespoons all purpose flour
3/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
10 tablespoons (1 1/4 sticks) chilled unsalted butter (preferably European style), cut into 1/2-inch cubes
2 large egg yolks
2 tablespoons (about) water, room temperature
1 egg yolk, beaten with 1 teaspoon water to blend (for glaze)
Salad topping
8 cups loosely packed assorted mixed greens, including arugula and frisée
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
2 ounces Parmesan cheese, shaved with vegetable peeler (about 1/2 cup)
6 large fresh basil leaves

preparation

For tomato confit:
Preheat oven to 300°F. Oil large rimmed baking sheet. Arrange tomatoes on baking sheet. Scatter thyme sprigs and garlic cloves over. Drizzle with 1/2 cup olive oil, then sprinkle with coarse sea salt.
Bake tomatoes 45 minutes. Turn tomatoes over; continue to bake until tomatoes shrink slightly but are still plump and moist, about 1 hour longer. Cool completely. Peel off skins. (Can be prepared 1 day ahead. Cover and refrigerate. Bring to room temperature before using.)
For marinated tomatoes:
Bring large pot of water to boil. Add tomatoes; blanch 30 seconds. Drain. Cool tomatoes. Peel, quarter, and seed tomatoes. Cut away membranes. Transfer tomatoes to glass jar or bowl. Add thyme, garlic cloves, and salt. Pour enough oil over tomatoes to cover. Let stand at room temperature 2 hours. (Can be made 1 day ahead. Chill. Bring to room temperature before using.)
For crust:
Blend flour and salt in processor. Using on/off turns, cut in butter until coarse meal forms. Add 2 egg yolks and 1 tablespoon water; process just until moist clumps form, adding more water if dry. Gather dough into ball; flatten into disk. Wrap in plastic and chill 2 hours. (Can be made 1 day ahead. Keep chilled. Soften slightly at room temperature before rolling out.)
Preheat oven to 375°F. Roll out dough on lightly floured parchment paper to 12-inch round. Transfer parchment with crust to baking sheet. Pierce crust all over with fork; brush with egg glaze.
Bake until crust is golden brown, about 27 minutes. Cool crust completely on parchment on baking sheet.
For salad topping:
Toss greens with oil and sea salt in large bowl. Place crust on platter. Arrange greens atop crust, leaving 1-inch plain border.
Starting at outside edge and working toward center, alternate tomato confit and marinated tomatoes in slightly overlapping concentric circles atop greens. Top with Parmesan shavings.
Garnish with basil leaves. Cut into wedges and serve.

Tomato pie with polenta crust

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 30 minutes

Cooking time:45 minutes

Ingredients

For filling:
olive oil
3 tomatoes
1 small zucchini
1 red onion, thickly sliced
1/4 teaspoon each salt and pepper

For crust:
olive oil
1/2 cup cornmeal
3/4 cup water
1/2 cup milk
1 egg white
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/4 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme
1/4 cup Emmenthal cheese

preparation

Preheat broiler to high. Line a baking sheet with foil; brush with oil. Cut tomatoes into 1/2-inch slices; scoop out and discard seeds and juice. Cut zucchini into 1/4-inch diagonal slices.
Arrange tomatoes, zucchini and onion in single layer on baking sheet; brush vegetables with oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Broil until surface of tomatoes appears dry and zucchini and onions are browned. Set aside.
Lightly oil a 9-in pie plate or cake pan; sprinkle base and sides with a little cornmeal, tilting pan to coat entire surface evenly.
Tap pan to remove excess; set aside. In medium saucepan combine 1/2 cup cornmeal and the water; bring to boil over medium-high heat.
Reduce heat to low; cook, stirring constantly, 3 minutes or until mixture thickens and pulls away from sides of pan.
Whisk in milk until mixture is smooth. Set aside 5 minutes to cool slightly. Whisk in egg white; stir in Parmesan cheese.
In small bowl, combine flour, baking powder and salt; stir into cornmeal mixture until well combined.
Spread cornmeal mixture over base and up sides of prepared pan to form 1/2-in thick layer. Sprinkle with half of parsley and thyme. Using a slotted metal spatula, lift vegetables from baking sheet, draining off juices.
Cover cornmeal mixture with half of tomatoes, half of onion, the remaining thyme and all but 1 tablespoon of the parsley.
Arrange remaining tomatoes, the zucchini and onion decoratively on top. Bake in a 375 degree oven for 35 minutes or until crust is puffed and golden. Sprinkle evenly Emmenthal and reserved parsley. Let stand 15 minutes before cutting into wedges.

Tomato stack salad

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:10 minutes

Ingredients

8 Italian Roma tomatoes, cut in half
2/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
3 tablespoons chiffonade of basil
1/2 small red onion, -- julienned
salt and pepper to taste
1 beefsteak tomato, -- cut into 6 slices
1 yellow beefsteak tomato, -- cut into 6 slices
8 slices of fresh mozzarella cheese
4 cups assorted baby greens
4 fried green tomatoes, for top of salad
Black pepper for the rim
edible flowers

preparation

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.
Toss the Roma tomatoes with the olive oil. Place the tomatoes, seed side down, on a baking sheet and roast for about 8-10 minutes. Remove from the oven and cool. Julienne the tomatoes.
In a mixing bowl, whisk the extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, basil and red onion together.
Add the julienned tomatoes. Season the vinaigrette with salt and pepper.
Season each side of the tomato slices with salt and pepper. Season each side of the mozzarella slices with salt and pepper. Toss the greens with 2/3 of the vinaigrette.
Reserve the remaining dressing. Alternate layering the tomatoes, cheese and greens.
Use 3 slices each of the tomatoes and cheese plus 1 cup of the greens for each salad.
Garnish each salad with the fried green tomato, remaining vinaigrette, black pepper on the rim, parsley, and edible flowers.

Tomato stuffed with creamy cheese with gazpacho

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:10 minutes

Dinner ideas of Andorra by Carles Flinch

Ingredients

4 pear tomatoes or tomatoes from the Canary’s
300 g of creamy goats cheese
200 ml of tomato juice
extra virgin olive oil
apple vinegar
50 g toasted almonds
50 g toasted hazelnuts
25 g pine nuts
salt, pepper and basil
parsley or chives for decoration

preparation

Clean the tomatoes and cut the top off. Empty the inside with the help of a spoon, keeping the pulp and top. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees.

Blend the pulp with a hand blender, adding oil, basil, the tomato juice, a bit of sugar, salt, pepper, and a teaspoon of apple vinegar and dried fruits. When it’s mixed, add a little more salt and store the gazpacho in the refrigerator. Stuff the creamy cheese inside the tomatoes, cover it with the lid chopped off earlier and add some pepper and oil. It will be inserted in the oven for 10 minutes at 180 degrees for it to scald and the cheese to melt.
Presentation
Pour the gazpacho into soup bowls and place the tomatoes on top, sprinkle a bit of parsley or chives over, and decorate it with a basil leaf. Serve immediately when cold.

Tomato tart tatin

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:45 minutes

Ingredients

3 lbs of ripe tomatoes
puff pastry (ready to use)
1 organic lemon
4 tablespoons of black olive tapenade
2 garlic cloves
20 pitted black olives
2 shallots
fresh thyme, fresh oregano, rosemary
1 teaspoons of coriander seeds
1 tablespoon sugar
olive oil
salt and pepper

preparation

Toast the coriander seeds, crush them and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil.

Brown the chopped shallots for 5 minutes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil.

Plunge the tomatoes in boiling water for 1 minute in order to remove the skin easily. Once cooled, cut tomatoes in haves and squeeze out the seeds and juice. Chop coarsely and cook uncovered in a frying pan with olive oil, chopped garlic, sugar, fresh herbs, salt and the pepper. Stir until it becomes a thick purée.

Wash the lemon, remove 2 strips of peel and boil for 3 minutes. Keep one of the lemon peels for decoration and chop the other one.
Place parchment paper on the bottom of a pie dish and oil it with olive oil.

Mix the tomatoes and chopped lemon zests.
Pour the tomato preparation onto the parchment paper and leave a space on the circumference.
Place the pitted black olives on top.
Then coat with olive tapenade.

Slowly place the puff pastry on the filling, slide the edge of the dough to the bottom of the mold. Prick the dough with a fork. Cook 30 minutes in the oven at 425 F.

Let rest outside of the oven for 20 minutes and then turn the pie over on a flat dish.

Sprinkle a little bit of coriander-perfumed olive oil. Decorate with some lemon peel and serve immediately.

Tomato zucchini pie

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 40 minutes

Cooking time:30 minutes

Ingredients

1 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup grated Romano cheese
1/2 cup fresh bread crumbs
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
1 egg, beaten
1/4 teaspoon each, salt and pepper
3 plum tomatoes, thinly sliced
1 zucchini, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons small fresh basil leaves

ROASTED GARLIC PASTRY:
1 whole head garlic
2 teaspoons olive oil
1 3/4 cups flour
1/4 teaspoon salt pinch pepper
1/2 cup shortening
1 egg yolk
1 teaspoon white vinegar
ice water

preparation

Roasted Garlic Pastry:
Separate garlic cloves; leaving skin on; place in small saucepan and toss with oil. Cover and cook over low heat, tossing occasionally, for about 30 minutes or until softened. Let cool; peel and set aside.
Stir together flour, salt and pepper. Cut in shortening until crumbly; set aside. Mash garlic; whisk in egg yolk, vinegar and enough ice water to make 2/3 cup. Sprinkle over flour mixture, tossing with fork until dough holds together.
Press into disc; wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate at least 30 minutes. On floured surface, roll out pastry into 14-inch circle and place on 12-inch round pizza pan, leaving overhang.
In large bowl, stir together ricotta and Romano cheeses, bread crumbs, chopped basil, egg, salt and pepper; spread evenly over pastry, leaving 2-inch border.
Top with alternating circles of tomato and zucchini, overlapping slices. Brush with oil. Fold pastry border over filling.
Bake at 450 degree oven until crust is golden brown. Let stand for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with basil leaves.

Tomato-basil tortellini

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 25 minutes

Cooking time:40 minutes

Ingredients

2 medium chopped onions
2 cloves minced garlic
2 stalks chopped celery
2 medium chopped carrots
2 teaspoons vegetable oil
28 ounces canned tomatoes
1 teaspoon tomato paste
1/4 cup chopped parsley
2 teaspoons chopped basil
1 1/2 pounds tortellini
1 cup heavy cream
1 sweet red pepper

preparation

Heat oil in a saucepan and sauté the first ingredients until carrots are tender.
Chop tomatoes in food processor. Stir tomatoes, tomato paste, parsley and basil in pan. Simmer uncovered over low heat for 15 to 20 minutes while stirring frequently.
Cook tortellini in boiling water for 8 to 10 minutes. Drain. Stir cream and chopped red pepper into tomato sauce. Continue cooking until sauce is reduced and thickened then place the pasta in a large shallow serving dish.
Pour the sauce over pasta. Toss gently and serve hot.

Tomatoes stuffed with goat cheese

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:15 minutes

Ingredients

4 medium tomatoes, firm
10 ounces fresh goat cheese
fresh ground pepper, to taste
1 large egg
1 egg yolk
1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
3 tablespoons bread crumbs
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

preparation

Preheat oven at 400 degrees.
Slice stem end off tomatoes. Scoop out seeds and some meat. Place tomatoes upside down on paper towels to drain liquid.
Soften goat cheese. Season with pepper. Add eggs and basil. Mix well. In another bowl, combine bread crumbs and cheese.
Fill tomatoes with goat cheese mix.
Sprinkle Parmesan mixture on top. Bake on oiled cookie sheet for 10 minutes. Broil to brown.

Tomatoes with peppers and stewed eggplants

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 1 hour

Cooking time:40 minutes

Ingredients

3 medium eggplants
5 tablespoons olive oil
3 white onions, peeled and chopped
1 teaspoon coriander seeds
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon cumin
1/2 cup chopped cilantro
1 tablespoon lemon juice
salt and pepper to taste
a pinch cayenne pepper
1 red pepper
1 yellow pepper
4 garlic cloves
1/2 cup olive oil
3 large vine ripe tomatoes
sea salt and ground pepper to taste
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
2 tablespoons chopped basil

preparation

Prepare the eggplant stew a day ahead. Wash and cube with the eggplants with the skin.
Heat olive oil in a skillet. Add eggplants and sauté for 5 minutes over medium heat, until lightly brown. Add chopped onions and coriander seeds; continue cooking for 5 minutes, adding more oil if necessary. Season with cinnamon and cumin ; add cilantro, lemon juice, salt and pepper, cayenne and chicken broth.
Cover and simmer for 40 minutes, or until eggplants are soft and almost all liquid has evaporated. Cool and refrigerate.

Prepare the peppers a day ahead. Wash and dry peppers. Grill under a broiler until the whole surface of the peppers is dark brown to black. Remove skin. Cut in halves and remove seeds and white pith. Cut into strips.
Peel and slice garlic. In a glass bowl, combine pepper strips with garlic and oil. Allow to marinate for a day or two.
To assemble:
Slice tomatoes. Arrange on plates or platter. Sprinkle with sea salt, pepper, oil and vinegar, cilantro and basil. Spoon peppers and eggplant compote around tomatoes. Serve cold.

Tostones - fried plantains

Serves: 6

Preparation time:15 minutes

Cooking time:20 minutes

TOSTONES are fried using green plaintains. Cut them staight down into 1 inch circles.
These are salty and are usually seasoned with some white pepper, garlic powder, paprika, chili powder.

THEN there's PLATANOS which are cooked using ripe with black skin or yellow plaintain. sliced sideways and pan fried untill golden brown. These are the sweet kind.

Puerto Ricans usually serve tostones them with rice and beans .

Ingredients

2 cups vegetable oil for frying
3 plantains, peeled and sliced into 1-inch pieces
salt to taste
garlic powder to taste

preparation

Heat a 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat with 1-1/2 inch of vegetable oil until hot enough that the oil sizzles when a plantain is added. Line a plate with paper towels and set aside.

Cut plantains diagonally into 1-inch slices. Fry the plantains in batches until tender and just golden, 2 to 3 minutes each side. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.

While the plantain slices are still warm, place them one at a time between two sheets of wax paper, and flatten by hand to 1/4 inch thick. Return flattened slices to the skillet, and continue frying until golden brown. Drain on paper towels, and season with salt and garlic powder.

Tri-color salad

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

2 large Belgian Endives
1 small head of red-leaf lettuce
1 small head of green-leaf lettuce
1 small bunch of watercress

Dressing:
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1/2 teaspoon salt or to taste
1/4 teaspoon pepper or to taste
1/3 cup olive oil
3 tablespoons orange juice
1 tablespoon mustard
juice of one large garlic clove

preparation

Combine the dressing ingredients and pour them over the bowl of cleaned salad ingredients.
Toss salad and serve.
Depending on your taste and preference, several other recipes are possible.
Combine Belgian Endive with raddichio, red leaf lettuce, or red beets for the red ingredients and with arrugula, romaine lettuce, mache, or Boston lettuce for the green ingredients.

Tuna and broccoli with farfalle

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:10-15 minutes

Ingredients

8 ounces farfalle (bow ties)
1 bunch broccoli
4 red pepers, cut into 1 inch squares
2 7-1/2 ounces cans solid white tuna in oil, drained and broken into large chunks
1 cup italian olives or other cured green olives

Dressing:
1/2 cup olive oil
3 teaspoons red wine vinegar
2 teaspoons capers, drained
1 teaspoon oregano, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground pepper

preparation

Cook pasta until al dente. Drain, rinse with cold water, drain again and transfer to a large shallow bowl. Toss with 2 tablespoons olive oil.
Cut broccoli stems from florets. Peel and slice into 1/2 inch pieces. Divide florets into approximately 1 inch pieces.
Cook stems in boiling salted water about 5 minutes.
Cook florets in boiling salted water about 3 minutes. Drain broth, rinse with cold water and drain again. Gently pat dry with paper towels. Toss florets only with 1/4 cup dressing and chill; reserve. Add the broccoli stems, peppers, olives and tuna to the pasta and toss gently with the remaining dressing. Cover and chill at least 2 hours before serving. Make a border with the broccoli florets before bringing to the table.

Tuna and white bean salad

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Can also be served on crostini as an appetizer
or
Mix with pasta and green beans for a spin on Pasta Nicoise

Ingredients

1 can (15 to 15 ½ ounces) white cannellini beans,
rinsed, drained
1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion, halved
1 can (6 ounces) tuna in olive oil (drain; reserve oil)
1 cup diced plum tomatoes
1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives
2 tablespoons chopped Italian parsley
1 tablespoon lemon juice
½ teaspoon grated lemon zest
¼ teaspoon each salt and freshly ground black pepper
2 cups torn arugula leaves
4 thick flatbreads

preparation

1. In a bowl, combine cannellini beans, red onion, tuna, tomatoes, olives, chopped parsley, 2 tablespoons of the reserved olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper, tossing gently to combine. Stir in arugula.
2. Preheat grill or heat grill pan. Brush flatbreads lightly with the remaining reserved olive oil. Grill until lightly browned, about 2 minutes per side. Cut flatbreads in halves or quarters. Serve with salad.
Each serving contains about 480 calories, 31 grams of protein, 51 grams of carbohydrate, 16 grams of total fat (3 grams saturated), 7 grams of fiber, 27 milligrams of cholesterol, and 1,273 milligrams of sodium.

Tuna salad on olive bread with arugula

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

2 6-ounce packages albacore tuna packed in water, drained
3/4 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup chopped green onions
1/4 cup diced seeded English hothouse cucumber
1/4 cup minced fresh dill
1/4 cup drained capers
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons minced fresh tarragon
12 1/3-inch-thick slices olive bread
1 cup arugula

preparation

Mix tuna, 1/4 cup mayonnaise, and next 6 ingredients in medium bowl to blend. Season with salt and pepper. Divide tuna salad among 6 bread slices; top with arugula leaves.
Spread remaining mayonnaise on remaining 6 bread slices; place atop arugula.
Cut sandwiches in half; wrap each tightly in plastic wrap.
Can be made 1 day ahead. Refrigerate.

Tuna salad sandwich

Serves: 6

Preparation time:15 minutes

May be used to make sandwiches or serve with salad.
Can be made 1 day ahead. Refrigerate.

Ingredients

2 6-ounce packages albacore tuna packed in water, drained
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup chopped green onions
1/4 cup diced seeded English hothouse cucumber
1/4 cup minced fresh dill
1/4 cup drained capers
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons minced fresh tarragon

preparation

Mix tuna, 1/4 cup mayonnaise, and next 6 ingredients in medium bowl to blend. Season with salt and pepper.

Tuna salad sandwiches

Serves: 4

Preparation time:15 minutes

Cut the celery and any other vegetables you’d like to add into a small dice so it’s still easy to make a sandwich. 1 to 2 tablespoons of chopped sweet red bell pepper, dill pickle, pitted olives, or water chestnuts are all good stir-ins for the tuna salad.
Mayonnaise, lemon juice or vinegar and seasonings.
Stuff tuna salad in hollowed out tomatoes or avocado halves for a fresh take on lunch.
Swap out the tuna for chicken or ham, adding some Dijon mustard with the mayonnaise in the dressing.

Ingredients

2 cans (6 oz each) tuna in water, drained
1/2 cup chopped celery
1/4 cup chopped green onion
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
8 slices bread

preparation

In a medium bowl, mix the tuna, celery, onion, mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt and pepper.

Spread tuna mixture on 4 bread slices, toasted or plain. Top with remaining bread slices.

Tuscan kale salad

Serves: 4

Preparation time:15 minutes

Kale is among the most nutrient-dense commonly eaten vegetables. One cup provides 1,327 percent of the Daily Value (DV) for vitamin K, 192 percent of DV for vitamin A, and 88 percent for vitamin C.

Ingredients

4-6 cups kale, loosely packed, sliced leaves of
Italian black (Lacinato, "dinosaur," cavolo nero) midribs removed
juice of 1 lemon
3-4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
2 cloves garlic, mashed
salt & pepper, to taste
hot red pepper flakes, to taste
2/3 cup grated Pecorino Toscano cheese (Rosselino variety if you can find it) or other flavorful grating cheese such as Asiago or Parmesan
1/2 cup freshly made bread crumbs from lightly toasted bread

preparation

Whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, and a generous pinch (or more to taste) of hot red pepper flakes.
Pour over kale in serving bowl and toss well.
Add 2/3 of the cheese and toss again.
Let kale sit for at least 5 minutes. Add bread crumbs, toss again, and top with remaining cheese.

Tuscan soup

Serves: 6

Preparation time:15 minutes

Cooking time:30 minutes

The semipearled farro variety — or semiperlato in Italy, where farro has been cultivated for centuries — in which some of the bran has been removed, and takes the least time to cook but has no bran at all.
whole farro requires overnight soaking.

Ingredients

3/4 cup spelt or semipearled farro *
2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for drizzling, if desired
1 small yellow onion, chopped
1 medium-size carrot, chopped
1 celery rib, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 teaspoon salt
Freshly ground pepper
1 bay leaf
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
5 cups vegetable stock
1 1/2 cups or one 15-ounce can cannellini or other white beans, drained and rinsed

preparation

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrot, celery, garlic, salt and pepper. Sautee over medium heat until the vegetables soften, about 5 minutes. Add the bay leaf and oregano. Add the stock and bring to a boil.
Add the spelt or farro and bring back to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer the soup for 20 to 30 minutes or until the farro is almost tender (you don't want the grains completely cooked since the soup will cook for additional time and the vegetables are cooked). Add more water if the soup becomes too thick.
Add the beans and season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for 10 to 15 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
Serve hot, drizzled with a little olive oil, if desired.

Ugali corn fufu

Serves: 5

Preparation time:5 minutes

Cooking time:15 minutes

Ugali is a thick porridge made from white maize meal cooked in water or milk until it becomes a thick dough. A piece of ugali serves as a spoon. Make a dent in the middle (swallow), and spoon a bite of draw soup (ogbono and okra soup are two examples).Ugali can also be made using sorghum, cassava or millet flour.
It is often called Sadza in Zimbabwe, pap in South Africa, Ugali in Tanzania, in Uganda, it’s called Posho. It is also popularly known as Nshima and mielie pap.

Ingredients

2 cups maize flour (coarse cornmeal)
4 cups water
½ teaspoon of salt

preparation

Boil – Add about 4 cups of water to a large heavy-bottomed saucepan. Add ½ teaspoon of salt. Bring to a boil, remove a cup of water, and set aside.
Add Cornmeal – Stir in the cornmeal a little at a time with a wooden spoon until it’s all in the pot. Keep stirring to prevent lumps. To avoid burning, you may have to take the saucepan off the heat while removing lumps.

Reduce heat and cook on low until the mixture thickens.

Final Stretch – Add the remaining boiled water, reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 10 more minutes. Add some more water if it looks like it needs it. Turn off the heat.

Serve – Scoop out balls of the ugali mixture with a small bowl. Roll it into a ball by rolling it around the bowl. Or shape it by wrapping it in a plastic wrap. Serve ugali while hot with Kachumbari, nyama choma, sukuma wiki, or your favourite dishes.

Vegetable and herb orzo salad

Serves: 8

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Cooking time:15 minutes

Ingredients

For salad:
6 ounces sugar snap peas, trimmed and cut into 3/4-inch
2 2/3 cups orzo
1 1/4 cups cubed seeded tomatoes
3/4 cup cubed seeded peeled cucumber
1/2 cup chopped green onions
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
2 teaspoons finely chopped lemon peel

Dressing:
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
2 teaspoons finely chopped lemon peel
1 teaspoon minced garlic
3/4 cup olive oil
1 head Boston lettuce

preparation

Salad:
Bring large pot of salted water to boil. Add snap peas; cook 1 minute. Using slotted spoon transfer beans to strainer. Rinse with cold water and drain. Add orzo to same pot. Boil until tender but still firm to bite. Drain and cool.
Place orzo in large bowl. Mix in snap peas, tomatoes, cucumber, green onions, parsley, mint and lemon peel. Season with salt and pepper.
Dressing:
Combine lemon juice, lemon peel and garlic. Gradually whisk in olive oil. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Pour half of dressing over salad; toss to coat. (Can be made 6 hours ahead. Cover salad and remaining dressing separately and chill. Bring to room temperature before serving.)
Toss salad with enough dressing to coat generously. Season with salt and pepper.
Line serving bowl with lettuce. Mound salad in bowl.

Vegetable barley soup

Serves: 5

Preparation time:15 minutes

Cooking time:40 minutes

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil (30 ml)
1 onion, cut in 1/4-inch dice
1 clove garlic, minced
2 carrots, cut in 1/4-inch dice
2 celery stalks, cut in 1/4-inch dice
1 19 oz -can plum tomatoes, chopped
4 sprigs of fresh thyme
4 cups chicken broth (1 L)
1/2 cup pearl barley (125 ml)
2 bay leaves
Salt and pepper

preparation

Put a soup pot over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and onions and sauté for 5 minutes over medium heat while stirring occasionally. Add garlic, carrots and celery and continue to sauté until softened.
Add tomatoes, thyme, chicken broth, barley and bay leaves and simmer until the barley is tender, about 30-40 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

Vegetable cheese strudel

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 25 minutes

Cooking time:25 minutes

Serve with a green salad. Vary the vegetables using eggplant, beans, snow peas, carrots, sweet potatoes or squash, all thinly sliced. You can use leftover cooked vegetables too. For a non-vegetarian dish, sauté chopped smoked bacon and add to vegetables.

Ingredients

2 tbsp (25 mL) olive oil
1/2 red pepper, thinly sliced
1 tsp (5 mL) chopped garlic
1 onion, sliced
1 zucchini, thinly sliced
1 cup (250 mL) thinly sliced cabbage or fennel
6 shiitake mushrooms, sliced
2 tbsp (25 mL) chopped parsley
1 1/2 cups (375 mL) Gruyere, mozzarella or cheddar, grated
Salt and freshly ground pepper
8 oz (250 g) frozen puff pastry, defrosted
1 egg, beaten with a pinch of salt

Spiced Pesto Vinaigrette
1/2 cup (125 mL) pesto
1 tbsp (15 mL) lemon juice
1/2 tsp (2 mL) hot pepper sauce
2 tbsp (25 mL) olive oil

preparation

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Heat olive oil in skillet on medium-high heat. Add peppers and sauté for 2 minutes. Add garlic, onion, zucchini, cabbage and mushrooms. Sauté until crisp tender, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat and drain off any liquid. Stir in parsley and cheese. Season with salt and pepper and cool.
Roll out pastry to a 10 x 14-inch (25 x 35-cm) rectangle. Pile vegetables along upper third of pastry lengthwise, leaving a 1 inch wide border on short sides. Brush all sides with beaten egg. Fold short ends up over filling, then roll into cylinder, cutting off pastry excess. Place seam-side down on cookie sheet and prick top. Brush with egg.
Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until golden brown.
Whisk together pesto, lemon juice, hot pepper sauce and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.
Cut strudel in slices and drizzle some sauce over.
This recipe is adapted from the LCBO Food and Drink Magazine in Ontario, Canada

Vegetable ragout with parmesan and balsamic vinegar

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 40 minutes

Cooking time:40 minutes

From Le Cabro d'Or, Les Baux-de-Provence, France

Ingredients

3 ounces Parmesan cheese
2 lemons, halved
8 artichokes (about 9 to 12 ounces each)
24 baby carrots, greens trimmed
1/4 cup olive oil
24 cherry tomatoes, halved
12 ounces button mushrooms, halved
1 10-ounce package frozen baby peas, thawed
1 10-ounce package frozen baby lima beans, thawed
1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

preparation

Using a vegetable peeler or a medium knife, cut Parmesan into thin shavings. Set aside.
Squeeze juice from lemons into large pot; add lemons.
Fill pot with water. Cut stem and top 1/3 from 1 artichoke. Starting at base, bend leaves back and snap off where they break naturally; continue until all tough outer leaves have been removed. Using small sharp knife, trim outside of base until smooth and no dark green areas remain.
Cut artichoke lengthwise into quarters. Cut out choke from quarters. Cut each quarter in half, making 1/2-inch wedges. Place artichoke pieces in lemon water. Repeat with remaining artichokes. Cover pot and bring to boil. Boil artichokes until tender, about 10 minutes. Drain; set aside. (Can be prepared 1 day ahead. Cover and refrigerate.)
Cook 24 baby carrots in large pot of boiling water 5 minutes. Drain carrots well. (Carrots can be prepared 1 day ahead. Cover and refrigerate.)
Heat 1/4 cup olive oil in heavy large pot over medium-high heat. Add tomatoes and mushrooms. Sauté until tomatoes and mushrooms release juices, about 8 minutes. Add artichokes, carrots, baby peas and lima beans.
Cook until lima beans and peas are tender and juices thicken slightly, stirring often, about 10 minutes. Add 1/4 cup butter and stir until melted. Season vegetables to taste with salt and pepper. Transfer ragout to large bowl. Toss with balsamic vinegar and sprinkle with Parmesan shavings.

Vegetarian burritos

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:10 minutes

Ingredients

8 10-inch flour tortillas
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium carrot, scraped and shredded
1 small onion, chopped
1 clove garlic, pressed
1-8 ounce can tomato sauce
1 10-ounce package frozen, chopped broccoli, thawed and well drained
1 10-ounce package whole kernel corn, thawed and drained
1 15-ounce can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 tablespoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
dash of hot sauce
18- ounce package shredded cheddar cheese

preparation

Heat tortillas according to package directions. Heat olive oil in large skillet. Add carrot, onion and garlic; cook stirring constantly, 2 minutes.
Stir in tomato sauce and next 7 ingredients; cover and simmer 5 minutes.
Spoon 1/2 cup vegetable mixture down centers of warm tortillas; sprinkle with 1/4 cup cheese.
Fold opposite sides over filling, securing with a wooden pick if necessary.
Serve immediately with salsa and guacamole.

Vegetarian minestrone

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:40 minutes

Ingredients

2 teaspoons olive oil
3/4 cup chopped onion
3 cups water
2 cups diced zucchini
1 cup diced carrot
1 cup drained canned cannellini beans
3/4 cup diced celery
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
1/8 teaspoon coarsely ground pepper
1-14 ounce can diced tomatoes undrained
1 garlic clove, minced
1/4 cup uncooked macaroni
4 teaspoons grated Parmesan cheese

preparation

Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add onions; sauté until lightly browned.
Add water and next 10 ingredients. Cover, reduce heat and cook 25 minutes.
Add pasta; cover and cook an additional 10 minutes. Ladle into bowls, and sprinkle with cheese.

Vidalia onion fritters

Serves: 5

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:20 minutes

Ingredients

1 cup flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
2 teaspoons curry powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 egg
1 teaspoon vinegar
4 dashes hot sauce
2 large Vidalia onion, peeled, halved, thinly sliced
Vegetable oil for frying .

preparation

Mix flour, baking powder, curry powder, and salt in a bowl.
Beat the liquids together. Pour over the dry ingredients and combine.
Add the sliced onions and mix well. Let stand for 1 hour.
In a deep skillet heat 3 to 4 inches of vegetable oil to 350 degrees over medium heat.
Drop the batter into the hot oil by tablespoonfuls, being careful not to crowd the pan. Cook until browned on one side and turn.
When the fritters are deep golden brown all over, remove them and drain on paper towels. Break one open to test for doneness;
if underdone in the center, reduce the heat a bit, and fry another minute.
Repeat until all the batter is used up and serve immediately

Watercress endive salad with roasted pears and roquefort

Serves: 8

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:25 minutes

Ingredients

For dressing:
1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
For salad:

4 large bartlett pears
1/4 cup Port wine
2 tablespoons olive oil
3/4 cup coarsely chopped walnuts
2 bunches watercress
6 Belgian endives
8 ounces Roquefort cheese

preparation

Dressing:
Whisk together olive oil, vinegar and mustard in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper.
Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. (200 degrees C).
Peel pears, cut into quarters and core.
Cut into 10 to 12 thick slices each.
Place in a bowl and toss with the Port and olive oil. Arrange on a heavy baking sheet and roast for about 20 minutes or until slices are tender. Let cool. (Pears can be roasted up to a day ahead. Cover and Refrigerate).
Place walnuts on baking sheet. Toast in oven for 5 minutes. Remove stems from watercress. Wash and spin. Remove core from endives and cut into thick slices.
To serve, arrange watercress around edge of a large serving platter with endives in center.
Drizzle with dressing. Top with pear slices and sprinkle with Roquefort and walnuts. Serve immediately.

Wild rice with apricot and almond salad

Serves: 8

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:1 hour

Ingredients

6-14 ounce cans vegetable broth
2 cups wild rice
1 cup dried apricots coarsely chopped
1/2 cup dried currants
1 cup blanched slivered almonds, toasted
2/3 cup chopped red onion
1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
6 tablespoons tarragon vinegar
4 teaspoons Dijon vinegar
2 garlic cloves

preparation

Bring broth to boil in heavy saucepan. Mix in wild rice. Reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer uncovered until rice is tender, stirring occasionally, about 50 minutes. Drain rice well. Transfer rice to bowl.
Mix dried apricots and currants into rice mixture. Cool completely.
Mix toasted almonds, chopped red onion and parsley into rice. Whisk vinegar, Dijon mustard and minced garlic, gradually whisk in olive oil.
Mix enough dressing into salad to season to taste. Season with salt and pepper. (Can be prepared 8 hours ahead. Cover and refrigerate).

Zucchini and red lentil fritters with lemony yogurt

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 30 minutes

Cooking time:20 minutes

A new twist to an Indian-style fritters.

Ingredients

Lemony Yogurt
• ¾ cup whole-milk Greek yogurt
• 2 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 tsp. sugar
• Kosher salt
Fritters
• 1 cup red lentils (masoor dal)
• 2 small zucchinis
• ½ medium onion, thinly sliced
• 1¾ tsp. kosher salt, divided, plus more
• ½ tsp. Kashmiri chile powder or ¼ tsp. cayenne pepper
• ¼ tsp. ground turmeric
• 1 cup parsley leaves with tender stems
• 1 Tbsp. finely grated lemon zest
• 1 cup vegetable oil

preparation

Lemony Yogurt
• Whisk yogurt, lemon juice, and sugar in a small bowl to combine. Season with salt and whisk again to combine.
• Yogurt can be made 1 day ahead. Cover and chill.
Fritters• Rinse lentils, then soak in 2 cups water at room temperature at least 1 hour and up to 12. Soaking the lentils for this long will make them super-plump and tender, which in turn makes them a lot easier to blend.
• Meanwhile, trim ends of zucchini and cut crosswise into 2-inch long pieces. And slice into ¼-inch thick matchsticks.
• Transfer zucchini to a colander set in a medium bowl. Add onion and 1 tsp. salt to colander and toss to combine.
• Let zucchini and onion sit until about 1 Tbsp. liquid has released and the vegetables look wilted and soft, 30 minutes to 1 hour). Gently pat dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. The less moisture in the veggies, the more crispy your fritters will be.
• Drain lentils and transfer to a food processor. Add chile powder, turmeric, and ¾ tsp. salt. Pulse, scraping down sides, until a coarse purée forms.
• Transfer to a medium bowl and add zucchini and onion mixture, parsley, and lemon zest. Toss well to combine.
• Heat oil in a 10-inch cast-iron skillet over medium-high.
• Working in batches, carefully drop 2 to 3 ( 1/4 cup-size batter) into the oil. then flatten to a pancake with the back of a large metal spoon dipped into the hot oil to prevent sticking.
• Fry fritter until deep golden brown on one side, about 3 minutes. Turn with a slotted spatula and fry until deep golden brown on the second side, about 3 minutes more.
• Transfer fritters to a wire rack set in a paper towel-lined baking sheet to drain. Season immediately with salt.
• Repeat with remaining batter (you should have 8–10 fritters).
• Transfer fritters to a platter. Serve hot with lemony yogurt alongside.

Zucchini carpaccio salad

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

4 small zucchinis
2 scallions, chopped
2 sun dried tomatoes, chopped
1/4 cup toasted pine nuts, chopped
1/4 cup crumbled feta
pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

basil & parsley vinaigrette: (this will make extra)
1 cup flat leaf parsley
1 cup basil
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoon wine vinegar
juice of 1/2 small lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
2 garlic cloves, crushed
1 teaspoon honey or agave
salt & pepper to taste

preparation

Put dressing ingredients into a food processer and blend until ingredients are combined, but not pureed. Taste and adjust seasonings. Set aside.

Using a mandoline slicer, shave un-peeled zucchinis into thin coins.

Toss zucchini, scallions and a quarter to a half cup of the vinaigrette together– . Adjust seasonings if necessary.

Arrange on a platter and top with sun dried tomatoes, pine nuts, feta and a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Cover leftover dressing and store it at room temperature.

Zucchini pancakes

Serves: 5

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time:15 minutes

Ingredients

1 1/2 pounds zucchini, shredded, salted and squeezed
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1/4 cup minced onion
1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 teaspoons fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
2 eggs, beaten
2 tablespoons canola oil
sour cream (optional)

preparation

1. Put shredded zucchini in a mixing bowl with remaining ingredients except oil and sour cream.
2. Put oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat.
3. Add 1/4 cup of zucchini mixture and form a pancake.
4. Continue adding more pancakes but don't crowd the pan.
5. Cook about 4 minutes on each side.
6. Keep pancakes warm in a low oven until all are done. 7. Serve topped with sour cream, if desired.

Zucchini roulades

Serves: 6

Preparation time:25 minutes

Cooking time:10 minutes

You can change the filling with feta cheese instead of Parmesan, or sun-dried tomatoes in the place of the olives.

Ingredients

1 cup part-skim ricotta cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons minced fresh basil or 2 teaspoons dried basil
1 tablespoon capers, drained
1 tablespoon chopped Greek olives
1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/8 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon pepper
4 medium zucchini

preparation

In a small bowl, mix the first 9 ingredients except the zucchini.

Slice zucchini lengthwise into twenty-four 1/8-in.-thick slices.

On a greased grill rack, cook zucchini in batches, covered, over medium heat. Grill until tender, 2-3 minutes on each side.

Place 1 tablespoon ricotta mixture on the end of each zucchini slice. Roll up and secure each with a toothpick.

conversion of liquids

Type a value in one of the inputs below to convert into other units.

Liters - l
Déciliters - dl
Centiliters - cl
Milliliters - ml
	*USA*	*UK, Canada*
Gallons - gal
Pints - pt
Cups - c
Ounces liquids - fl oz
Tablespoons - tbsp
Teaspoons - tsp

Weights

Temperatures

Measures of non liquid ingredients

Non-liquid ingredients in volume converted into weight using the table below. For products not included, use a metric scale Weight of specific 'ingredients in grams
Ingredient	1 cup	3/4 cup	2/3 cup	1/2 cup	1/3 cup	1/4 cup	2 tablespoons
All-purpose wheat flour	120 g	90 g	80 g	60 g	40 g	30 g	15 g
All-purpose sifted wheat flour	110 g	80 g	70 g	55 g	35 g	27 g	13 g
White sugar	200 g	150 g	130 g	100 g	65 g	50 g	25 g
Powdered sugar/Icing sugar	100 g	75 g	70 g	50 g	35 g	25 g	13 g
Brown sugar normally packed	180 g	135 g	120 g	90 g	60 g	45 g	23 g
Corn flour	160 g	120 g	100 g	80 g	50 g	40 g	20 g
Cornstarch	120 g	90 g	80 g	60 g	40 g	30 g	15 g
Rice (not-cooked)	190 g	140 g	125 g	95 g	65 g	48 g	24 g
Macaroni (uncooked)	140 g	100 g	90 g	70 g	45 g	35 g	17 g
Couscous (uncooked)	180 g	135 g	120 g	90 g	60 g	45 g	22 g
Quick oatmeal (uncooked)	90 g	65 g	60 g	45 g	30 g	22 g	11 g
Table salt	300 g	230 g	200 g	150 g	100 g	75 g	40 g
Butter / Margarine	240 g	180 g	160 g	120 g	80 g	60 g	30 g
Shortening	190 g	140 g	125 g	95 g	65 g	48 g	24 g
Fruits and légumes chopped	150 g	110 g	100 g	75 g	50 g	40 g	20 g
chopped walnuts	150 g	110 g	100 g	75 g	50 g	40 g	20 g
Nuts /ground almonds	120 g	90 g	80 g	60 g	40 g	30 g	15 g
Fresh bread crumbs (not packed)	60 g	45 g	40 g	30 g	20 g	15 g	8 g
Dry bread crumbs	150 g	110 g	100 g	75 g	50 g	40 g	20 g
Parmesan grated	90 g	65 g	60 g	45 g	30 g	22 g	11 g
Chocolate chips	150 g	110 g	100 g	75 g	50 g	38 g	19 g

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lunch

{Page-Turner} E-Cookbooks Library

on a world cooking journey.

320 Recipes

lunch recipes

Kilogramms :	kg
Gramms :	g
Pounds :	lb
Ounces :	oz

Degrees Celsius :	°C
degrees Fahrenheit :	°F

If you love all things lunch this {Pageturner Ecookbook} is for you

If you love all things
lunch
this {Pageturner Ecookbook} is for you