Serves: 8

• Ingredients

1 large Tart-sweet red apple, such as a gala or Braeburn. cored, cut into 1/8" dice.
3 ounces blue cheese, crumbled, to yield about 3/4 cup
3/4 cup (2 large) ribs celery, finely chopped
3 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Kosher Salt
5 Belgium endives, leaves separated; smaller leaves saved for another use
1/2 cup hazelnuts, toasted and coarsley chopped

• preparation

In a medium bowl, combine the apple, blue cheese, celery, mayonnaise, and lemon juice. Stir gently to combine. Season to taste with salt.
To assemble, mound a small spoonful of the apple mixture onto the core end of each endive leaf. Sprinkle with the hazelnuts and serve.

• preparation

In a medium bowl, combine the apple, blue cheese, celery, mayonnaise, and lemon juice. Stir gently to combine. Season to taste with salt.
To assemble, mound a small spoonful of the apple mixture onto the core end of each endive leaf. Sprinkle with the hazelnuts and serve.

Serves: 4

• Ingredients

3 tablespoons grated sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup brown sugar
1/4 teaspoon grated nutmeg
1/3 cup soft butter
1/3 cup flour
5 large tart apples
1/3 cup cider

• preparation

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
In a mixing bowl, combine grated sharp cheddar cheese,
brown sugar, nutmeg, soft butter and flour.
Peel, core and slice large tart apples. Arrange in a buttered pie dish.
Pour cider over apples. Crumble flour mixture over.
Bake for 40 minutes or until apples are soft.

• preparation

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
In a mixing bowl, combine grated sharp cheddar cheese,
brown sugar, nutmeg, soft butter and flour.
Peel, core and slice large tart apples. Arrange in a buttered pie dish.
Pour cider over apples. Crumble flour mixture over.
Bake for 40 minutes or until apples are soft.

Serves: 4

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

• 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

Serves: 6

• 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.

• 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.

Serves: 4

• Ingredients

1 pound puff pastry sheet, thawed
1/2 pound Swiss cheese
4 tablespoons Dijon mustard
12 asparagus spears, cooked crisp
1 egg, beaten

• preparation

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
Roll puff pastry sheet on a floured work surface to a thickness of 1/8 inch. Cut into 4-inch squares.
Cut cheese into fingers about the size of asparagus spears.
Spread each pastry dough evenly with mustard.
Lay an asparagus spear and a strip of cheese on each pastry square. Roll them up, seal and place seam side down on a buttered baking sheet. Brush rolls with beaten egg.
Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until pastry is brown and cheese is melted

• preparation

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
Roll puff pastry sheet on a floured work surface to a thickness of 1/8 inch. Cut into 4-inch squares.
Cut cheese into fingers about the size of asparagus spears.
Spread each pastry dough evenly with mustard.
Lay an asparagus spear and a strip of cheese on each pastry square. Roll them up, seal and place seam side down on a buttered baking sheet. Brush rolls with beaten egg.
Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until pastry is brown and cheese is melted

Serves: 10

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.

• 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.

Serves: 8

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.

• 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.

Serves: 6

• Ingredients

24 fresh asparagus spears, cut to 4 inches
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
2 ounces Stilton cheese
1/4 teaspoon minced garlic
to taste, salt and ground black pepper
12 thin slices of prosciutto, cut into halves

• preparation

Clean and peel asparagus. Cook lightly in salted boiling water or steam until crisp. Plunge in ice cold water.
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
In a mixing bowl, whisk cream cheese, Stilton cheese, garlic, and salt and pepper to taste.
Spread each half slice of prosciutto with some of the cream cheese mixture. Roll around an asparagus spear. Arrange on a baking sheet.
Bake for about 5 minutes or until heated through.

• preparation

Clean and peel asparagus. Cook lightly in salted boiling water or steam until crisp. Plunge in ice cold water.
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
In a mixing bowl, whisk cream cheese, Stilton cheese, garlic, and salt and pepper to taste.
Spread each half slice of prosciutto with some of the cream cheese mixture. Roll around an asparagus spear. Arrange on a baking sheet.
Bake for about 5 minutes or until heated through.

Serves: 4

• 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.

• 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.

Serves: 6

• Ingredients

1 pound fiddleheads, cleaned
3 tablespoons butter
3 tablespoons flour
1 cup chicken stock
1/2 cup cream
2 egg yolks
2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup breadcrumbs

• preparation

Wash fiddleheads.
Cook in boiling salted water for ten minutes, until partly cooked.
Make a sauce by melting the butter; into which stir the flour, a pinch of salt, the chicken stock and cream.
Then stir in the egg yolks and finally the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until all the cheese melts.
Do this over a low heat.
In a buttered oven-proof dish put the fiddleheads carefully in layers. Pour sauce over each layer; sprinkle a little Parmesan on each layer of sauce.
Cover the top layer of fiddleheads with sauce and sprinkle with breadcrumbs.
Bake until sauce is bubbly.

• preparation

Wash fiddleheads.
Cook in boiling salted water for ten minutes, until partly cooked.
Make a sauce by melting the butter; into which stir the flour, a pinch of salt, the chicken stock and cream.
Then stir in the egg yolks and finally the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until all the cheese melts.
Do this over a low heat.
In a buttered oven-proof dish put the fiddleheads carefully in layers. Pour sauce over each layer; sprinkle a little Parmesan on each layer of sauce.
Cover the top layer of fiddleheads with sauce and sprinkle with breadcrumbs.
Bake until sauce is bubbly.

Serves: 6

• 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.

• 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.

Serves: 6

• 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.

• 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.

Serves: 6

• Ingredients

Kosher salt
Good olive oil
3/4 pound orzo pasta (rice-shaped pasta)
1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
Freshly ground black pepper
2 pounds (16 to 18 count) shrimp, peeled and deveined
3/4 cup minced scallions, white and green parts
3/4 cup chopped fresh dill
1 cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
1 hothouse cucumber, unpeeled, seeded, and medium-diced
1/2 cup small-diced red onion
3/4 pound good feta cheese, large diced

• preparation

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
Fill a large pot with water, add 1 teaspoon of salt and a tablespoon of oil, and bring the water to a boil. Add the orzo and simmer for 9 to 11 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it's cooked al dente.
Drain and pour into a large bowl.

Whisk together the lemon juice, 1/2 cup olive oil, 2 teaspoons salt and 1 teaspoon of pepper.
Pour over the hot pasta and stir well.

Meanwhile, place the shrimp on a sheet pan, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Toss to combine and spread out in a single layer. Bake for 5 to 6 minutes, until the shrimp are cooked through. Don't overcook!

Add the shrimp to the orzo and then add the scallions, dill, parsley, cucumber, onion, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Toss well. Add the feta and stir carefully. Set aside at room temperature for 1 hour to allow the flavors to blend, or refrigerate overnight. If refrigerated, taste again for seasonings and bring back to room temperature before serving.

• preparation

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
Fill a large pot with water, add 1 teaspoon of salt and a tablespoon of oil, and bring the water to a boil. Add the orzo and simmer for 9 to 11 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it's cooked al dente.
Drain and pour into a large bowl.

Whisk together the lemon juice, 1/2 cup olive oil, 2 teaspoons salt and 1 teaspoon of pepper.
Pour over the hot pasta and stir well.

Meanwhile, place the shrimp on a sheet pan, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Toss to combine and spread out in a single layer. Bake for 5 to 6 minutes, until the shrimp are cooked through. Don't overcook!

Add the shrimp to the orzo and then add the scallions, dill, parsley, cucumber, onion, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Toss well. Add the feta and stir carefully. Set aside at room temperature for 1 hour to allow the flavors to blend, or refrigerate overnight. If refrigerated, taste again for seasonings and bring back to room temperature before serving.

Serves: 6

It can be prepared ahead, then baked just before ready to serve.
Swiss chard can be used as a substitute for spinach as it is in season with spaghetti squash. Separate the green leaves from the white. Dice the white stems and steam with green leaves.

• Ingredients

6 cups cooked spaghetti squash (from about 1 large squash)
1 tbsp butter
1 tbsp olive oil
1/4 cup minced onion
3 Tbsp flour
2 cups 2% or skim milk
1 cup fat free chicken broth (vegetable broth for vegetarian)
3 Tbsp tomato salsa
4 oz reduced fat cheddar cheese
salt and pepper, to taste
4 cups (about 4 oz) baby spinach, steamed for 3 minutes
1/4 cup grated parmesan

• preparation

Preheat the oven to 375ºF.
Cut the squash in half lengthwise; remove and discard seeds. Place squash on a baking sheet. Bake until tender, about 1 hour. Separate the strands of squash with a fork and place in a medium bowl; discard shells. Maintain the oven temperature.

Heat butter and oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onions and cook about 2 minutes. Stir in flour. Reduce heat to low and cook, stirring continually 3 - 4 minutes.
Add milk and chicken broth and continue whisking, raising heat to medium-high until it comes to a boil and becomes smooth and thick, about 2 minutes stirring; season with salt and pepper.
Once it becomes thick, remove from heat, add cheddar cheese and mix well until cheese is melted. Adjust salt and pepper to taste, add cooked spaghetti squash and chopped baby spinach, pour into a baking dish and sprinkle with tomato salsa and Parmesan cheese on top. Bake until bubbly and golden 25 to 30 minutes.

• preparation

Preheat the oven to 375ºF.
Cut the squash in half lengthwise; remove and discard seeds. Place squash on a baking sheet. Bake until tender, about 1 hour. Separate the strands of squash with a fork and place in a medium bowl; discard shells. Maintain the oven temperature.

Heat butter and oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onions and cook about 2 minutes. Stir in flour. Reduce heat to low and cook, stirring continually 3 - 4 minutes.
Add milk and chicken broth and continue whisking, raising heat to medium-high until it comes to a boil and becomes smooth and thick, about 2 minutes stirring; season with salt and pepper.
Once it becomes thick, remove from heat, add cheddar cheese and mix well until cheese is melted. Adjust salt and pepper to taste, add cooked spaghetti squash and chopped baby spinach, pour into a baking dish and sprinkle with tomato salsa and Parmesan cheese on top. Bake until bubbly and golden 25 to 30 minutes.

Serves: 6

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.

• 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.

Serves: 4

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.

• 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.

Serves: 4

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.

• 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.

Serves: 2

• 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.

• 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.

Serves: 14

• Ingredients

1/4 cup sugar
1 cup cracker crumbs
1 teaspoon cocoa
1/3 cup butter, melted
3 8-ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup sugar
3 eggs
1/4 cup strong coffee
8 ounces chocolate, bittersweet
1/2 cup sour cream
4 ounces chocolate, bittersweet
1/2 cup heavy cream

• preparation

CRUST:
Combine first 4 ingredients. Press mixture on bottom of a 9 inch springform pan. Refrigerate.
FILLING:
Beat cream cheese with sugar. Add the eggs. Stir in the strong instant coffee, chocolate and sour cream. Pour into pan. Bake at 350 degrees F. for 40 to 50 minutes or until center is barely set. Refrigerate.
GLAZE:
Shave a few curls of chocolate for garnish. Heat the cream with remaining chocolate until melted and smooth. Spoon over cake. Garnish with curls.

• preparation

CRUST:
Combine first 4 ingredients. Press mixture on bottom of a 9 inch springform pan. Refrigerate.
FILLING:
Beat cream cheese with sugar. Add the eggs. Stir in the strong instant coffee, chocolate and sour cream. Pour into pan. Bake at 350 degrees F. for 40 to 50 minutes or until center is barely set. Refrigerate.
GLAZE:
Shave a few curls of chocolate for garnish. Heat the cream with remaining chocolate until melted and smooth. Spoon over cake. Garnish with curls.

Serves: 6

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.

• 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.

Serves: 6

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.

• 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.

Serves: 6

• 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.

• 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.

Serves: 8

• Ingredients

2 cups flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
3 tablespoons sugar
3/4 cup unsalted butter, chilled, cut into pieces
4 ounces cream cheese, chilled, cut into pieces
2 egg yolks

6 cups peach slices
6 1/4 cups blueberries
2 cups raspberries
1/3 cup quick-cooking tapioca
1¼ cups sugar

• preparation

Combine first 3 ingredients in processor; add 3 tablespoons sugar and process until blended.
Add butter and cream cheese and process until mixture resembles coarse meal. Add egg yolks; process just until moist clumps form. Gather dough into ball; flatten into rectangle. Wrap in plastic; chill 30 minutes.
Butter 13 by 9 by 2-inch glass baking dish.
Combine peaches, blueberries, raspberies, tapioca and sugar in large bowl; toss to coat. Let stand 45 minutes, tossing occasionally.
Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
Transfer fruit to prepared dish. Roll out dough on lightly floured surface to 14 by 10-inch rectangle.
Using cookie cutters, cut out a few decorative shapes in dough. Transfer dough rectangle to top of fruit and sides of dish.
Arrange cutouts around edge of cobbler.
Place on baking sheet. Bake until crust is golden , fruit is tender and juices are bubbling and thick, about 1 hour. Cool slightly.

• preparation

Combine first 3 ingredients in processor; add 3 tablespoons sugar and process until blended.
Add butter and cream cheese and process until mixture resembles coarse meal. Add egg yolks; process just until moist clumps form. Gather dough into ball; flatten into rectangle. Wrap in plastic; chill 30 minutes.
Butter 13 by 9 by 2-inch glass baking dish.
Combine peaches, blueberries, raspberies, tapioca and sugar in large bowl; toss to coat. Let stand 45 minutes, tossing occasionally.
Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
Transfer fruit to prepared dish. Roll out dough on lightly floured surface to 14 by 10-inch rectangle.
Using cookie cutters, cut out a few decorative shapes in dough. Transfer dough rectangle to top of fruit and sides of dish.
Arrange cutouts around edge of cobbler.
Place on baking sheet. Bake until crust is golden , fruit is tender and juices are bubbling and thick, about 1 hour. Cool slightly.

Serves: 8

• Ingredients

Shell:
1-1/4 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup finely chopped pecans
1/2 cup melted butter
Filling:
1-(8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sugar
2 eggs, beaten
Topping:
4 cups blueberries
1 cup sugar
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 teaspoon. lemon juice
whipped cream (optional)

• preparation

For shell:
Combine cracker crumbs, brown sugar, nuts and butter; press into a 9-inch pie pan. For filling:
Combine cream cheese, sugar and eggs. Mix thoroughly and pour over shell. Bake for 20 minutes at 350 degrees. Cool.
For topping:
Mix topping ingredients and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until mixture thickens. Cool. Top pie with cooled topping and serve with whipped cream, if desired.

• preparation

For shell:
Combine cracker crumbs, brown sugar, nuts and butter; press into a 9-inch pie pan. For filling:
Combine cream cheese, sugar and eggs. Mix thoroughly and pour over shell. Bake for 20 minutes at 350 degrees. Cool.
For topping:
Mix topping ingredients and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until mixture thickens. Cool. Top pie with cooled topping and serve with whipped cream, if desired.

Serves: 8

• Ingredients

One recipe Quick and easy pie crust
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
3 eggs
1 1/2 cups sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 pound blueberries
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 cup sugar
garnish with whipped cream

• preparation

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese, eggs, sugar and vanilla until smooth and creamy.
Pour into crust. Bake for 15 minutes.
In a medium saucepan, combine blueberries, cornstarch and sugar.
Cook over low heat until thick and bubbly. Spread over pie crust. Chill. Decorate top with whipped cream.

• preparation

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese, eggs, sugar and vanilla until smooth and creamy.
Pour into crust. Bake for 15 minutes.
In a medium saucepan, combine blueberries, cornstarch and sugar.
Cook over low heat until thick and bubbly. Spread over pie crust. Chill. Decorate top with whipped cream.

Serves: 4

• 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.

• 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.

Serves: 6

Tapioca
is the starch extracted from cassava root (which also plays a big role in Brazilian cuisine) .

• Ingredients

1 large egg, room temperature
1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil, plus more for greasing the pan
2/3 cup milk
1 1/2 cups (170 g) tapioca flour
1/2 cup (66 g) feta crumbled cheese
1 teaspoon salt (or more to taste)

• preparation

Preheat the oven to 400°F. Spread a small amount olive oil around the insides of each well of a non-stick mini muffin tin.
Blend the ingredients:

Put all of the ingredients into a blender and pulse until smooth. You may need to use a spatula to scrape down the sides of the blender so that everything gets blended well.

Pour the batter into the prepared mini muffin tin not quite to the top; leave about 1/4 inch from the top.

Bake at 400°F in the oven for 15-20 minutes until all puffy and golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool on a rack for a few minutes.
Eat while warm or at room temperature (they’re best when fresh).

• preparation

Preheat the oven to 400°F. Spread a small amount olive oil around the insides of each well of a non-stick mini muffin tin.
Blend the ingredients:

Put all of the ingredients into a blender and pulse until smooth. You may need to use a spatula to scrape down the sides of the blender so that everything gets blended well.

Pour the batter into the prepared mini muffin tin not quite to the top; leave about 1/4 inch from the top.

Bake at 400°F in the oven for 15-20 minutes until all puffy and golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool on a rack for a few minutes.
Eat while warm or at room temperature (they’re best when fresh).

Serves: 4

• Ingredients

4 croissants split in halves lengtwise
8 eggs, scrambled
8 slices bacon, crisply cooked and crumbled
8 tablespoons shredded Cheddar cheese (2 oz

• preparation

Heat oven to 400°F.
Lightly grease or spray cookie sheet.
Place croissant halves 1 inch apart on cookie sheet. Bake 5 minutes.
Divide scrambled eggs among croissants. Crumble bacon on top of eggs.
Sprinkle each with 1 tablespoon cheese.
Bake about 5 minutes.

• preparation

Heat oven to 400°F.
Lightly grease or spray cookie sheet.
Place croissant halves 1 inch apart on cookie sheet. Bake 5 minutes.
Divide scrambled eggs among croissants. Crumble bacon on top of eggs.
Sprinkle each with 1 tablespoon cheese.
Bake about 5 minutes.

Serves: 8

• Ingredients

3 pounds broccoli, cleaned, cut into 2-inch florets
1/4 cup butter
1/4 cup flour
4 cups boiling milk
salt and pepper to taste
1/8 teaspoon grated nutmeg
1 cup grated Swiss cheese
1 teaspoon melted butter

• preparation

In a kettle of salted boiling water, cook the broccoli flowerets for 3 to 4 minutes, or until tender.
Drain broccoli, and plunge into ice cold water to stop the cooking.
Drain broccoli. Pat dry, and transfer to a buttered 2-quart baking dish.
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
In a saucepan, cook the onion in 3 tablespoons of butter over moderate low heat, stirring until it is softened.
Stir in the flour and cook the roux over low heat, stirring, for 3 minutes.
Add milk and whisk over moderate heat until the sauce thickens. Simmer the sauce for 10 minutes. Season with salt, pepper and grated nutmeg.
Pour the sauce over broccoli. Sprinkle the cheese over the sauce. Pour butter over cheese.
Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until golden brown.

Broccoli with cheddar sauce:
A variation of this recipe uses the cream sauce with the addition of 2 cups grated cheddar cheese, and dry breadcrumbs sprinkled over the top of broccoli.

• preparation

In a kettle of salted boiling water, cook the broccoli flowerets for 3 to 4 minutes, or until tender.
Drain broccoli, and plunge into ice cold water to stop the cooking.
Drain broccoli. Pat dry, and transfer to a buttered 2-quart baking dish.
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
In a saucepan, cook the onion in 3 tablespoons of butter over moderate low heat, stirring until it is softened.
Stir in the flour and cook the roux over low heat, stirring, for 3 minutes.
Add milk and whisk over moderate heat until the sauce thickens. Simmer the sauce for 10 minutes. Season with salt, pepper and grated nutmeg.
Pour the sauce over broccoli. Sprinkle the cheese over the sauce. Pour butter over cheese.
Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until golden brown.

Broccoli with cheddar sauce:
A variation of this recipe uses the cream sauce with the addition of 2 cups grated cheddar cheese, and dry breadcrumbs sprinkled over the top of broccoli.

Serves: 6

• Ingredients

1/3 cup dry breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons finely shredded extra sharp cheddar cheese
2 cups small broccoli florets
2 cups small cauliflower florets
vegetable cooking spray
1 tablespoon melted butter
1 tablespoon coarse grained mustard
1/4 teaspoon white pepper

• preparation

Combine breadcrumbs and cheddar cheese; stir breadcrumb mixture well.
Steam broccoli and cauliflower, covered, until vegetables are crisp-tender. Drain vegetables, and place in a 1 1/2 quart casserole coated with vegetable cooking spray.
Combine the butter, mustard, and white pepper; drizzle over vegetables and toss well.
Sprinkle vegetables with the breadcrumb mixture, and bake at 425 degrees until thoroughly heated.

• preparation

Combine breadcrumbs and cheddar cheese; stir breadcrumb mixture well.
Steam broccoli and cauliflower, covered, until vegetables are crisp-tender. Drain vegetables, and place in a 1 1/2 quart casserole coated with vegetable cooking spray.
Combine the butter, mustard, and white pepper; drizzle over vegetables and toss well.
Sprinkle vegetables with the breadcrumb mixture, and bake at 425 degrees until thoroughly heated.

Serves: 4

• 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.

• 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.

Serves: 6

• Ingredients

2 pounds broccoli rabe
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
5 garlic cloves, peeled and coarsely chopped
5 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese or Asiago cheese

• preparation

Wash and drain broccoli, discarding tough stems. Cook broccoli rabe in large pot of boiling salted water until crisp-tender, about 4 minutes.
Drain and immerse in a bowl of ice water to cool. Drain again;
Heat olive oil in heavy large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté about 2 minute. Add broccoli rabe and sauté until heated through. Remove from heat. Sprinkle 4 tablespoons cheese over and toss to combine.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Transfer to warm platter. Sprinkle remaining 2 tablespoons cheese over.

• preparation

Wash and drain broccoli, discarding tough stems. Cook broccoli rabe in large pot of boiling salted water until crisp-tender, about 4 minutes.
Drain and immerse in a bowl of ice water to cool. Drain again;
Heat olive oil in heavy large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté about 2 minute. Add broccoli rabe and sauté until heated through. Remove from heat. Sprinkle 4 tablespoons cheese over and toss to combine.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Transfer to warm platter. Sprinkle remaining 2 tablespoons cheese over.

Serves: 3

• 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.

• 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.

Serves: 4

A delicious salmon recipe adapted from Canadian Living Magazine. Tested till perfect.

• Ingredients

1 tsp fennel seeds
4 small skin-on salmon fillets, 1 pound (450 g) total
1 tsp (5 mL) olive oil
Pinch each salt and pepper
lemon wedges

Sweet Corn Barley Risotto:

2-1/2 cups (625 mL) vegetable broth
2 tsp (10 mL) olive oil
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, chopped
1 cup (250 mL) pot barley
1 cup (250 mL) fresh corn kernels, (about 2 cobs) or frozen corn kernels
3 green onions, chopped
1/2 cup (125 mL) grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup (60 mL) chopped fresh chervil or parsley
1 tsp (5 mL) lemon juice
1/2 tsp pepper
1/4 tsp salt

• preparation

Sweet Corn Barley Risotto:
In saucepan, bring vegetable broth and 2-1/2 cups water to simmer; keep warm. Meanwhile, in large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat; cook onion and garlic until onion is softened, about 3 minutes. Add barley; cook, stirring to coat, for 1 minute. Reduce heat to medium; stir in corn and green onions. Add hot broth mixture; cook, stirring occasionally, until creamy and barley is tender but still slightly firm in center, about 45 minutes. Stir in Parmesan cheese, chervil, sour cream, lemon juice, pepper and salt.

Meanwhile, using bottom of heavy skillet, crush fennel seeds. Arrange fish on greased rimmed baking sheet. Brush with oil; sprinkle with fennel seeds, salt and pepper. Broil, 6 inches (15 cm) from heat, until fish flakes easily when tested, about 7 minutes. Serve with risotto and lemon wedges to squeeze over top.

• preparation

Sweet Corn Barley Risotto:
In saucepan, bring vegetable broth and 2-1/2 cups water to simmer; keep warm. Meanwhile, in large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat; cook onion and garlic until onion is softened, about 3 minutes. Add barley; cook, stirring to coat, for 1 minute. Reduce heat to medium; stir in corn and green onions. Add hot broth mixture; cook, stirring occasionally, until creamy and barley is tender but still slightly firm in center, about 45 minutes. Stir in Parmesan cheese, chervil, sour cream, lemon juice, pepper and salt.

Meanwhile, using bottom of heavy skillet, crush fennel seeds. Arrange fish on greased rimmed baking sheet. Brush with oil; sprinkle with fennel seeds, salt and pepper. Broil, 6 inches (15 cm) from heat, until fish flakes easily when tested, about 7 minutes. Serve with risotto and lemon wedges to squeeze over top.

Serves: 12

• Ingredients

1/2 cup melted butter
12 slices white bread
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
12 ounces cooked asparagus, cut into small pieces
6 ounces cooked flaked crabmeat
8 eggs
2 1/2 cups milk
3 tablespoons chopped parsley
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon pepper

• preparation

Preheat oven at 350 degrees. Spread butter over one side of each bread slice.
Arrange 6 slices, buttered sides down, in a 13 by 9-inch baking dish. Layer the cheese, asparagus and crab over bread. Place remaining bread slices, buttered sides up, over crab meat.
In a large bowl, combine the remaining ingredients; blend well.
Pour egg mixture evenly over bread.
Bake for 50 minutes to 1 hour.

• preparation

Preheat oven at 350 degrees. Spread butter over one side of each bread slice.
Arrange 6 slices, buttered sides down, in a 13 by 9-inch baking dish. Layer the cheese, asparagus and crab over bread. Place remaining bread slices, buttered sides up, over crab meat.
In a large bowl, combine the remaining ingredients; blend well.
Pour egg mixture evenly over bread.
Bake for 50 minutes to 1 hour.

Serves: 4

A wonderful recipe for a Fall or winter season showing the colors of this dish.
Prep and cook time are for flatbread only. If you're making the caramelized onions and butternut squash on the same day you're making the flatbread, allow about an extra hour.

• Ingredients

Roasted Butternut Squash
1 butternut squash cut into 1/2-inch chunks
2 tbsp olive oil
salt + pepper to taste
Caramelized Onions
2 tbsp olive oil
2 large onions halved & thinly sliced
salt + pepper to taste

1 prepared pizza crust
1/2 cup Fontina or Italian blend cheese shredded
2 tsp olive oil
2 tbsp sage leaves cut into ribbons
2 tbsp toasted walnuts chopped (optional)

• preparation

Roasted Butternut Squash
Preheat oven to 400°F.
Spread squash onto a rimmed baking sheet; drizzle sheet with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper and toss to coat.
Bake for 45–50 minutes or until tender.
Caramelized Onions
Heat oil in a large skillet over low heat.
Add onions and a pinch of salt. Cook until completely caramelized, stirring occasionally at first and more often as onions begin to brown, about 30 to 40 minutes.
Season with freshly ground pepper.
Preheat oven to temperature indicated on pizza crust package.
Top crust with caramelized onions, cheese, and squash.
Bake for time on package or until squash is heated through and cheese has melted.
While pizza is baking, heat oil in small skillet over medium high heat. Add sage leaves and saute, stirring constantly, for about 3 minutes or until leaves are crispy, but still green.
Sprinkle sage leaves and walnuts on pizza before serving.

• preparation

Roasted Butternut Squash
Preheat oven to 400°F.
Spread squash onto a rimmed baking sheet; drizzle sheet with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper and toss to coat.
Bake for 45–50 minutes or until tender.
Caramelized Onions
Heat oil in a large skillet over low heat.
Add onions and a pinch of salt. Cook until completely caramelized, stirring occasionally at first and more often as onions begin to brown, about 30 to 40 minutes.
Season with freshly ground pepper.
Preheat oven to temperature indicated on pizza crust package.
Top crust with caramelized onions, cheese, and squash.
Bake for time on package or until squash is heated through and cheese has melted.
While pizza is baking, heat oil in small skillet over medium high heat. Add sage leaves and saute, stirring constantly, for about 3 minutes or until leaves are crispy, but still green.
Sprinkle sage leaves and walnuts on pizza before serving.

Serves: 8

• 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.

• 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.

Serves: 4

Campanelle is a type of pasta that is cone shaped with ruffled edges (aka Gigli or campanelle pasta and as riccioli). It literally means “little bells.
Campanelle noodles are ideal for dishes with special sauces as the curls in the recipe hold the sauce for a perfect dish.

Hen of the Woods Mushrooms have a dense, meaty texture and savory flavor.

• Ingredients

• 12 ounces campanelle
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
3 cloves garlic minced
12 ounces Hen of the Woods Mushrooms sliced
¼ cup white wine, vegetable broth, or chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
3 tablespoons fresh parmesan cheese divided
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped optional

• preparation

1. Heat olive oil over medium high heat and cook garlic and mushrooms until mushrooms are tender.
2. Stir in wine (or broth) and cook until wine has almost evaporated. Add heavy cream and simmer 5 minutes.
3. Meanwhile, cook pasta according to package directions (do not rinse).
4. Remove from heat and stir in parmesan cheese, and lemon zest until smooth.
5. Toss with pasta. Top with parsley and extra parmesan cheese if desired.

• preparation

1. Heat olive oil over medium high heat and cook garlic and mushrooms until mushrooms are tender.
2. Stir in wine (or broth) and cook until wine has almost evaporated. Add heavy cream and simmer 5 minutes.
3. Meanwhile, cook pasta according to package directions (do not rinse).
4. Remove from heat and stir in parmesan cheese, and lemon zest until smooth.
5. Toss with pasta. Top with parsley and extra parmesan cheese if desired.

Serves: 6

• 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.

• 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.

Serves: 4

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

More presentations

Sprinkle sliced tomatoes with salt.
Arrange tomatoes and mozzarella on platter in alternating and overlapping pattern, or stacked as shown on the image above.
Either tuck whole leaves of basil in between layers of tomatoes or sprinkle salad with the ribbons of basil.
Drizzle the salad evenly with extra virgin olive oil.
Sprinkle with freshly cracked black pepper.
Drizzle with balsamic glaze if using.
Serve immediately or within one hour of preparation.

There is really no “dressing” for Caprese Salad. Instead a generous drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and salt is all that is needed.
A drizzle of balsamic reduction enhances the taste of this simple salad, but that is optional.


Notes

Beefsteak, vine-ripened, or heirloom tomatoes are all great for this Tomato and Mozzarella Salad.

Balsamic Reduction

You can easily purchase a balsamic reduction or glaze or you can make it at home.

Place 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar into heavy bottomed saucepan.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a low simmer.
Allow to reduce, stirring occasionally, until the balsamic is reduced by half and coats the back of a spoon. This takes about 10 minutes.

• preparation

More presentations

Sprinkle sliced tomatoes with salt.
Arrange tomatoes and mozzarella on platter in alternating and overlapping pattern, or stacked as shown on the image above.
Either tuck whole leaves of basil in between layers of tomatoes or sprinkle salad with the ribbons of basil.
Drizzle the salad evenly with extra virgin olive oil.
Sprinkle with freshly cracked black pepper.
Drizzle with balsamic glaze if using.
Serve immediately or within one hour of preparation.

There is really no “dressing” for Caprese Salad. Instead a generous drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and salt is all that is needed.
A drizzle of balsamic reduction enhances the taste of this simple salad, but that is optional.


Notes

Beefsteak, vine-ripened, or heirloom tomatoes are all great for this Tomato and Mozzarella Salad.

Balsamic Reduction

You can easily purchase a balsamic reduction or glaze or you can make it at home.

Place 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar into heavy bottomed saucepan.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a low simmer.
Allow to reduce, stirring occasionally, until the balsamic is reduced by half and coats the back of a spoon. This takes about 10 minutes.

Serves: 6

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.

• 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.

Serves: 2

• 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.

• 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.

Serves: 8

• Ingredients

3 pounds cauliflower, cleaned, cut into 2-inch florets
1/4 cup butter
1/2 cup chopped onion
1/4 cup flour
4 cups boiling milk
salt and pepper to taste
1/8 teaspoon grated nutmeg
1 1/2 cups grated Swiss cheese
1 teaspoon melted butter

• preparation

In a kettle of salted boiling water, cook the cauliflower florets for 3 to 4 minutes, or until tender. Drain cauliflower, and plunge into ice cold water to stop the cooking. Drain cauliflower. Pat dry, and transfer to a buttered 2-quart baking dish.
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a saucepan, cook the onion in 3 tablespoons of butter over moderate low heat, stirring until it is softened. Stir in the flour and cook the roux over low heat, stirring, for 3 minutes. Add milk and whisk over moderate heat until the sauce thickens. Simmer the sauce for 10 minutes. Season with salt, pepper and grated nutmeg. Pour the sauce over cauliflower. Sprinkle the cheese over the sauce. Pour butter over cheese. Bake until sauce in golden brown, 15 to 20 minutes
cauliflower with cheddar sauce:
A variation of this recipe uses the cream sauce with the addition of 1 1/2 cups grated cheddar cheese, and dry breadcrumbs sprinkled over the top of cauliflower.

• preparation

In a kettle of salted boiling water, cook the cauliflower florets for 3 to 4 minutes, or until tender. Drain cauliflower, and plunge into ice cold water to stop the cooking. Drain cauliflower. Pat dry, and transfer to a buttered 2-quart baking dish.
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a saucepan, cook the onion in 3 tablespoons of butter over moderate low heat, stirring until it is softened. Stir in the flour and cook the roux over low heat, stirring, for 3 minutes. Add milk and whisk over moderate heat until the sauce thickens. Simmer the sauce for 10 minutes. Season with salt, pepper and grated nutmeg. Pour the sauce over cauliflower. Sprinkle the cheese over the sauce. Pour butter over cheese. Bake until sauce in golden brown, 15 to 20 minutes
cauliflower with cheddar sauce:
A variation of this recipe uses the cream sauce with the addition of 1 1/2 cups grated cheddar cheese, and dry breadcrumbs sprinkled over the top of cauliflower.

Serves: 4

the cooking method of seasoning and baking provides a very nice vegetable dish that could accompany almost anything.

• Ingredients

1/4 cup olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
1 Medium head of cauliflower, cut into 1/2-inch-thick slabs, possibly halved to make a total of 8 slabs
1/2 cup golden raisins
1/4 cup white wine (optional)
1/4 cup shelled pistachios
4 ounces Comte or Manchego cheese, cut into 8 slices
2 tablespoons chopped parsley

• preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Add the cauliflower slabs and toss to coat.
3. Arrange the cauliflower on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 25 minutes, flip the slabs, and bake another 10 to 20 minutes, until softened and roasted. Set aside to cool but keep the oven on.
4. Meanwhile, in a small bowl, soak the raisins in wine or water for 10 minutes. Drain.
5. In a small pan over medium-high heat, toast the pistachios, dry or with a little oil. Let cool on a paper towel, then chop coarsely.
6.Arrange the cauliflower in a baking dish. Sprinkle with pistachios and raisins and top with the cheese.
7. Bake until the cheese melts, 7 to 10 minutes.
8. Top with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

• preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Add the cauliflower slabs and toss to coat.
3. Arrange the cauliflower on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 25 minutes, flip the slabs, and bake another 10 to 20 minutes, until softened and roasted. Set aside to cool but keep the oven on.
4. Meanwhile, in a small bowl, soak the raisins in wine or water for 10 minutes. Drain.
5. In a small pan over medium-high heat, toast the pistachios, dry or with a little oil. Let cool on a paper towel, then chop coarsely.
6.Arrange the cauliflower in a baking dish. Sprinkle with pistachios and raisins and top with the cheese.
7. Bake until the cheese melts, 7 to 10 minutes.
8. Top with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Serves: 4

• Ingredients

1 medium cauliflower
2 large eggs
1/2 cup cheddar cheese, grated
1/2 cup panko or corn meal
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
salt to taste
olive oil

• preparation

Cut cauliflower into florets and steam until tender about 10 minutes. Drain. Mash the cauliflower while still warm. Stir cheese, eggs, panko, cayenne and salt to taste.

Coat the bottom of a griddle or skillet with olive oil over medium-high heat. Form the cauliflower mixture into patties about 3 inches across. Cook until golden brown & set, about 3 minutes per side. Keep each batch warm in the oven while you cook the rest.

• preparation

Cut cauliflower into florets and steam until tender about 10 minutes. Drain. Mash the cauliflower while still warm. Stir cheese, eggs, panko, cayenne and salt to taste.

Coat the bottom of a griddle or skillet with olive oil over medium-high heat. Form the cauliflower mixture into patties about 3 inches across. Cook until golden brown & set, about 3 minutes per side. Keep each batch warm in the oven while you cook the rest.

Serves: 4

The Cauliflower Risotto goes well with pork tenderloin, baked chicken breast, baked chicken legs, or baked pork chops. It also pairs well with baked cod, grilled shrimp, or roasted beef.

• Ingredients

1 medium head cauliflower
1 Tbsp olive oil (15 mL)
1 shallot finely chopped
1 clove garlic minced
1 cup vegetable broth (240 mL)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (80 g)
1/4 cup heavy cream 60 mL
Salt and pepper to taste

• preparation

Remove any leaves around the cauliflower. Chop the cauliflower using large pices that fit in a food processor or by grating with a box grater.
Heat oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat, then add shallot and garlic. Cook until shallot is softened, then stir in riced cauliflower and vegetable broth. Cover and cook for 10 minutes, or until cauliflower is tender.

Puree 1/4 of the cauliflower mixture in a blender or food processor until smooth and creamy. Drain excess water from the remaining ¾ of the cauliflower.

Stir pureed cauliflower back into the cauliflower rice, along with the parmesan and heavy cream. Taste and add salt and pepper, as needed.

• preparation

Remove any leaves around the cauliflower. Chop the cauliflower using large pices that fit in a food processor or by grating with a box grater.
Heat oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat, then add shallot and garlic. Cook until shallot is softened, then stir in riced cauliflower and vegetable broth. Cover and cook for 10 minutes, or until cauliflower is tender.

Puree 1/4 of the cauliflower mixture in a blender or food processor until smooth and creamy. Drain excess water from the remaining ¾ of the cauliflower.

Stir pureed cauliflower back into the cauliflower rice, along with the parmesan and heavy cream. Taste and add salt and pepper, as needed.

Serves: 4

• 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.

• 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.

Serves: 8

may also be served as hors d'oeuvres.

• Ingredients

1 cup water 1/2 cup butter, cut into pieces
1 cup flour
4 large eggs
1 cup grated Swiss cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper
1/8 teaspoon grated nutmeg
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
2 cups parsley sprigs, cleaned and dried
2 cups tomato basil sauce
oil for deep frying

• preparation

In a medium saucepan, heat water and butter to a simmer. Add flour all at once and stir vigorously with a wooden spoon over low heat until mixture no longer sticks to pan and forms into a ball. Remove from heat.
Beat eggs in thoroughly, one by one until mixture is smooth. Mix in the cheese and seasonings.
Transfer cheese mixture to a mixing bowl.
Heat the oil in a deep fryer to 350 degrees. Carefully fry half of the dry parsley sprigs for about 10 to 12 seconds.
Transfer to a plate on a paper towel. Repeat with remaining parsley. Season with salt.
Spoon about 5 or 6 tablespoons of the cheese mixture into the oil. Do not crowd as they double in size and self rotate while cooking. Fry for 8 to 10 minutes until golden brown. Drain on absorbent paper.
Keep beignets in a warm oven while frying the remaining. Arrange the warm cheese beignets on a platter with the fried parsley.
Serve with hot tomato basil.
Note: If served as hors d'oeuvres, fry teaspoonfuls of the cheese mixture.

• preparation

In a medium saucepan, heat water and butter to a simmer. Add flour all at once and stir vigorously with a wooden spoon over low heat until mixture no longer sticks to pan and forms into a ball. Remove from heat.
Beat eggs in thoroughly, one by one until mixture is smooth. Mix in the cheese and seasonings.
Transfer cheese mixture to a mixing bowl.
Heat the oil in a deep fryer to 350 degrees. Carefully fry half of the dry parsley sprigs for about 10 to 12 seconds.
Transfer to a plate on a paper towel. Repeat with remaining parsley. Season with salt.
Spoon about 5 or 6 tablespoons of the cheese mixture into the oil. Do not crowd as they double in size and self rotate while cooking. Fry for 8 to 10 minutes until golden brown. Drain on absorbent paper.
Keep beignets in a warm oven while frying the remaining. Arrange the warm cheese beignets on a platter with the fried parsley.
Serve with hot tomato basil.
Note: If served as hors d'oeuvres, fry teaspoonfuls of the cheese mixture.

Serves: 8

• Ingredients

4 ounces butter
1 cup flour
2 cups milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 cups grated Cheddar cheese
2 cups grated Swiss cheese
3 egg yolks
salt, nutmeg, onion powder to taste
1 cup flour
1 cup fresh bread crumbs
2 cups tomato sauce
2 cups fried parsley

• preparation

In a medium saucepan, melt butter, stir in flour. Add milk and cream and whisk until sauce is thick and bubbly. Mix in the cheese. Blend well. Stir in egg yolks. Season to taste.
Spread mixture over a greased square dish to a thickness of 1 inch. Cool 1/2 hour.
Cut into 2-inch by 1-inch pieces. Dust in flour, dip in egg white, and roll in fresh bread crumbs.
Deep fry until brown. Serve with tomato sauce and fried parsley.

• preparation

In a medium saucepan, melt butter, stir in flour. Add milk and cream and whisk until sauce is thick and bubbly. Mix in the cheese. Blend well. Stir in egg yolks. Season to taste.
Spread mixture over a greased square dish to a thickness of 1 inch. Cool 1/2 hour.
Cut into 2-inch by 1-inch pieces. Dust in flour, dip in egg white, and roll in fresh bread crumbs.
Deep fry until brown. Serve with tomato sauce and fried parsley.

Serves: 6

• 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.

• 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.

• Ingredients

1 cup milk
1 tablespoon butter
1 tablespoon flour
1 egg yolk
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon white pepper
1/8 teaspoon grated nutmeg
1 cup grated Cheddar cheese

• preparation

Melt the butter in a saucepan. Whisk in the flour. Add the milk and whisk until sauce is thick.
Mix in egg yolk and cook over low heat for 2 minutes. Add cheese. Stir over low heat until melted. Remove sauce from heat. Season with salt and pepper and nutmeg.
Pour the sauce in a container and cover with buttered wax paper. Heat before serving.

• preparation

Melt the butter in a saucepan. Whisk in the flour. Add the milk and whisk until sauce is thick.
Mix in egg yolk and cook over low heat for 2 minutes. Add cheese. Stir over low heat until melted. Remove sauce from heat. Season with salt and pepper and nutmeg.
Pour the sauce in a container and cover with buttered wax paper. Heat before serving.

Serves: 6

• 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.

• 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.

Serves: 6

• Ingredients

1 puff pastry sheet, store-bought
1 egg, whisked
A handful of finely chopped parsley
1 cup mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup ricotta cheese
A heaping tablespoon crème fraiche or sour cream, or cream cheese
A dozen artichoke hearts, jarred ones
1 to 2 tablespoons capers
1 Serrano pepper, thinly sliced
Lemon zest
Basil or cilantro
Salt and pepper
Shaved Parmesan

• preparation

1. Preheat the oven at 400°F or 205°C.
2. Roll the pastry sheet to 0.5 cm or 1/4 inches. Trim the pastry into a 12 x 9 inch rectangle (or 30 x 23 cm). Sketch a border around the pastry using your knife. You can layer the excess dough over the borders and create a rim for the dough.
3. Brush the edges of the pastry with egg. Combine the mozzarella, ricotta, parsley, crème fraiche, remaining egg (from brushing the pastry), salt and pepper in a bowl.
4. Spread the cheese filling all over the pastry. Arrange the artichoke hearts, Serrano peppers, and capers on top, and bake for 25-30 minutes. You can broil the tart for 2 mins at the end.
5. Finish off the tart with shaved Parmesan, cilantro, and lemon zest on top.

• preparation

1. Preheat the oven at 400°F or 205°C.
2. Roll the pastry sheet to 0.5 cm or 1/4 inches. Trim the pastry into a 12 x 9 inch rectangle (or 30 x 23 cm). Sketch a border around the pastry using your knife. You can layer the excess dough over the borders and create a rim for the dough.
3. Brush the edges of the pastry with egg. Combine the mozzarella, ricotta, parsley, crème fraiche, remaining egg (from brushing the pastry), salt and pepper in a bowl.
4. Spread the cheese filling all over the pastry. Arrange the artichoke hearts, Serrano peppers, and capers on top, and bake for 25-30 minutes. You can broil the tart for 2 mins at the end.
5. Finish off the tart with shaved Parmesan, cilantro, and lemon zest on top.

Serves: 8

• Ingredients

8 ounces grated cheddar cheese
4 ounces unsalted butter, softened
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon Tabasco
1/4 teaspoon Aromat seasoning
1 cup flour

• preparation

Preheat oven at 325 degrees. Process cheese with the flour. Add butter and spices and process until dough forms a ball. Scrape the side of bowl, and process for a few more seconds to blend.
Roll the dough into 2-inch thick cylinder. Wrap in wax paper. Chill. Slice into 1/4 -inch slices. Place on sheet pan lined with wax paper.
Bake for about 20 minutes, or until wafers are crisp. Cool on rack.

Note: I also roll cylinder in ground almond.

• preparation

Preheat oven at 325 degrees. Process cheese with the flour. Add butter and spices and process until dough forms a ball. Scrape the side of bowl, and process for a few more seconds to blend.
Roll the dough into 2-inch thick cylinder. Wrap in wax paper. Chill. Slice into 1/4 -inch slices. Place on sheet pan lined with wax paper.
Bake for about 20 minutes, or until wafers are crisp. Cool on rack.

Note: I also roll cylinder in ground almond.

Serves: 4

This is a quick, easy, light Italian-American chicken Parmesan recipe.To make it even faster, use your favorite store-bought tomato sauce.

• Ingredients

Sauce:
2 teaspoons olive oil
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
1/4 cup finely chopped green pepper
3 large garlic cloves, minced
1 can (14.5 ounces) whole tomatoes, preferably no salt added, crushed
1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
1 teaspoon chopped oregano
2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Salt and pepper to taste
Chicken
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, about 4 ounces each
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
Thinly sliced asiago or provolone cheese, about 2 ounces
Freshly grated Parmesan or Romano cheese
4 cups cooked pasta

• preparation

To make the sauce, heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the onions and peppers and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and sauté another minute. Add the tomatoes, tomato sauce, and seasonings. Stir well. Partially cover and simmer over low heat until slightly thickened, about 20 minutes. Remove from heat until use.

Meanwhile, prepare the chicken. Preheat the oven to 375° F. Season the chicken on both sides with salt and pepper. Heat the 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and brown on both sides, about 3 minutes per side. Remove the chicken and drain any excess oil from the pan. Place just enough of the sauce in the pan to cover the bottom. Add the chicken breasts in a single layer. Spread the tops with a little sauce. Place a thin layer of the sliced cheese on top of each breast, then sprinkle with the Parmesan or Romano cheese. Place in the oven and bake until the chicken is cooked, about 15 minutes depending on the thickness. Place on individual serving dishes; pass sauce and grated cheese separately. Extra sauce can be spooned on a pasta side dish.
Heat the pasta and serve with chicken

• preparation

To make the sauce, heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the onions and peppers and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and sauté another minute. Add the tomatoes, tomato sauce, and seasonings. Stir well. Partially cover and simmer over low heat until slightly thickened, about 20 minutes. Remove from heat until use.

Meanwhile, prepare the chicken. Preheat the oven to 375° F. Season the chicken on both sides with salt and pepper. Heat the 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and brown on both sides, about 3 minutes per side. Remove the chicken and drain any excess oil from the pan. Place just enough of the sauce in the pan to cover the bottom. Add the chicken breasts in a single layer. Spread the tops with a little sauce. Place a thin layer of the sliced cheese on top of each breast, then sprinkle with the Parmesan or Romano cheese. Place in the oven and bake until the chicken is cooked, about 15 minutes depending on the thickness. Place on individual serving dishes; pass sauce and grated cheese separately. Extra sauce can be spooned on a pasta side dish.
Heat the pasta and serve with chicken

Serves: 8

• Ingredients

1 pound broccoli
5 cups cooked chicken
2 10-ounce can chicken soup
1 cup mayonnaise
2 teaspoons lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon powdered ginger
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
1 cup white bread crumbs
2 teaspoons butter

• preparation

Clean, wash and cut broccoli into medium pieces. Cook lightly in boiling water. Drain well.
Cover the bottom of a casserole dish with broccoli. Cover broccoli with the diced chicken.
In a separate bowl, mix chicken soup, mayonnaise, lemon juice, cream and ginger. Spread over chicken. Top with the cheddar cheese. Brown bread crumbs with butter.
Sprinkle over top of chicken. Bake at 350 degrees for about 30 minutes or until bubbly and brown.

• preparation

Clean, wash and cut broccoli into medium pieces. Cook lightly in boiling water. Drain well.
Cover the bottom of a casserole dish with broccoli. Cover broccoli with the diced chicken.
In a separate bowl, mix chicken soup, mayonnaise, lemon juice, cream and ginger. Spread over chicken. Top with the cheddar cheese. Brown bread crumbs with butter.
Sprinkle over top of chicken. Bake at 350 degrees for about 30 minutes or until bubbly and brown.

Serves: 4

• Ingredients

4 skinless chicken breast
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 pound fresh spinach
3 teaspoons butter
2 teaspoons chopped shallots
1/8 teaspoon nutmeg
2 ounces cubed Swiss cheese
1/2 pound sliced mushrooms
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1/4 cup dry white wine
1 cup chicken stock
1 cup chopped tomatoes
8 fresh basil leaves

• preparation

Pound chicken breasts lightly between sheets of plastic wrap. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Wash and rinse spinach.
Heat half butter in saucepan or skillet. Add shallots. Cook briefly and then add spinach and nutmeg.
Cook until spinach is wilted and moisture has evaporated. Remove spinach from pan and cool.
In center of each chicken breast place equal portion of spinach along with cheese.
Fold sides of and then ends over the stuffing. Place the chicken in steamer and steam for 5 minutes.
Melt remaining butter in small pan. Add remaining ingredients and reduce to half. Serve over chicken. Garnish with basil leaves.

• preparation

Pound chicken breasts lightly between sheets of plastic wrap. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Wash and rinse spinach.
Heat half butter in saucepan or skillet. Add shallots. Cook briefly and then add spinach and nutmeg.
Cook until spinach is wilted and moisture has evaporated. Remove spinach from pan and cool.
In center of each chicken breast place equal portion of spinach along with cheese.
Fold sides of and then ends over the stuffing. Place the chicken in steamer and steam for 5 minutes.
Melt remaining butter in small pan. Add remaining ingredients and reduce to half. Serve over chicken. Garnish with basil leaves.

Serves: 6

• Ingredients

1 3-pound roasting chicken, washed

for stock:
1 large onion, peeled and quartered
1 medium carrot, peeled and sliced
1 leek, cleaned and sliced
2 sticks celery
1 bouquet garni

for sauce:
2 tablespoons butter
3 tablespoons flour
2 cups chicken stock
8 ounces mushrooms
1 tablespoon butter
2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese
1 pound frozen peas

• preparation

In a large soup pot, combine chicken and vegetables. Cover with water. Bring to a boil. Simmer for 30 minutes.
Transfer chicken to a plate. Allow to cool. Skin chicken and debone. Cut all meat into cubes. Reserve.
For the sauce:
Melt butter in a large saucepan. Stir in the flour to make a roux. Strain 2 cups chicken stock over the roux. Whisk to thicken. Simmer for 10 minutes. Sauce should be medium-thick. add chicken and simmer for 5 minutes. Melt butter in a frying pan. Add mushrooms and sauté on high heat until all liquid is evaporated. Add to chicken.
Spoon chicken mixture into a casserole baking dish. Sprinkle with Parmesan.
Cook peas according to package directions. Drain and puree in a food processor.
I add 1 or 2 tablespoons instant mashed potatoes to thicken peas. Spoon puree of peas in a pastry bag fitted with a star tube.
Pipe all around edges of baking dish. Bake at 375 degrees until brown.

• preparation

In a large soup pot, combine chicken and vegetables. Cover with water. Bring to a boil. Simmer for 30 minutes.
Transfer chicken to a plate. Allow to cool. Skin chicken and debone. Cut all meat into cubes. Reserve.
For the sauce:
Melt butter in a large saucepan. Stir in the flour to make a roux. Strain 2 cups chicken stock over the roux. Whisk to thicken. Simmer for 10 minutes. Sauce should be medium-thick. add chicken and simmer for 5 minutes. Melt butter in a frying pan. Add mushrooms and sauté on high heat until all liquid is evaporated. Add to chicken.
Spoon chicken mixture into a casserole baking dish. Sprinkle with Parmesan.
Cook peas according to package directions. Drain and puree in a food processor.
I add 1 or 2 tablespoons instant mashed potatoes to thicken peas. Spoon puree of peas in a pastry bag fitted with a star tube.
Pipe all around edges of baking dish. Bake at 375 degrees until brown.

Serves: 4

• 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.

• 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.

Serves: 16

Recipe by Philadelphia Original Brick Cream Cheese.

• Ingredients

18 vanilla creme-filled chocolate sandwich cookies, finely crushed (about 1-1/2 cups)
2 Tbsp. butter or margarine, melted
3 pkg. (8 oz. each) PHILADELPHIA Cream Cheese, softened
1 cup sugar
1 tsp. vanilla
2 pkg. (4 oz. each) BAKER'S Semi-Sweet Chocolate, broken into pieces, melted and cooled
3 eggs
1-1/2 cups sliced fresh strawberries

• preparation

Heat oven to 325°F.
Combine cookie crumbs and butter; press onto bottom of 9-inch springform pan. Bake 10 min.

Beat cream cheese, sugar and vanilla in large bowl with mixer until blended. Add chocolate; mix well. Add eggs, 1 at a time, mixing on low speed after each just until blended. Pour over crust.

Bake 45 to 55 min. or until center is almost set. Run knife around rim of pan to loosen cake; cool before removing rim.
Refrigerate cheesecake 4 hours. Top with strawberries just before serving.

• preparation

Heat oven to 325°F.
Combine cookie crumbs and butter; press onto bottom of 9-inch springform pan. Bake 10 min.

Beat cream cheese, sugar and vanilla in large bowl with mixer until blended. Add chocolate; mix well. Add eggs, 1 at a time, mixing on low speed after each just until blended. Pour over crust.

Bake 45 to 55 min. or until center is almost set. Run knife around rim of pan to loosen cake; cool before removing rim.
Refrigerate cheesecake 4 hours. Top with strawberries just before serving.

Serves: 8

• Ingredients

4 oz (200g) honey nut cornflakes
14 oz (400g) jars chocolate hazelnut spread
7 oz (200g)cream cheese,softened
1 tbsp roasted and chopped Hazelnut

• preparation

Put the cornflakes and half a of the chocolate hazelnut spread in a bowl and beat to combine. Press the mix into the base of a 4-inch (10 cm) springform tin.


In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth, then fold in the remaining chocolate hazelnut spread. Smooth onto the cornflake base, wrap tightly in cling film and freeze overnight.
Remove from the freezer 30 mins before serving, or until you can cut it easily with a sharp knife. Serve in slices with hazelnuts sprinkled over. Will keep in the freezer for up to 1 month.

• preparation

Put the cornflakes and half a of the chocolate hazelnut spread in a bowl and beat to combine. Press the mix into the base of a 4-inch (10 cm) springform tin.


In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth, then fold in the remaining chocolate hazelnut spread. Smooth onto the cornflake base, wrap tightly in cling film and freeze overnight.
Remove from the freezer 30 mins before serving, or until you can cut it easily with a sharp knife. Serve in slices with hazelnuts sprinkled over. Will keep in the freezer for up to 1 month.

Serves: 10

Plain thick plain Greek yogurt is a good substitute for the plain yogurt as there is no need to strain the Greek yogurt.

• Ingredients

3 cups plain yogurt
1/2 cup Graham cracker crumbs
1 cup sugar
3/4 cup sifted cocoa
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 8-ounce package light cream cheese, softened
2 eggs
2 egg whites
1 tablespoon finely grated orange rind
2 cans (10-ounce each) mandarin orange segments, drained

• preparation

Line a large sieve with a double layer of cheesecloth; set sieve over bowl.
Pour yogurt into sieve; let drain in refrigerator 4 to 6 hours or until yogurt remaining in sieve measures 2 cups. Discard liquid in bowl.
Spray base and sides of 8-inch springform pan with nonstick baking spray.
Sprinkle cracker crumbs evenly over base of pan; set aside. Stir together sugar, cocoa and cornstarch.
Using electric mixer, beat cream cheese until smooth.
Beat in eggs and egg whites one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Slowly blend in cocoa mixture and orange rind until combined.
Whisk in yogurt until smooth.
Pour cheesecake mixture into prepared pan. Bake for about 1 hour and 10 minutes, until cheesecake is just set but centre still jiggles slightly. Turn oven off.
Run a sharp knife around edge of pan to loosen. Leave cheesecake in oven with door closed for 1 hour. Remove from oven. Place on wire rack; let cool completely. Refrigerate, covered, until chilled. Release sides of pan; place cheesecake on serving plate.

• preparation

Line a large sieve with a double layer of cheesecloth; set sieve over bowl.
Pour yogurt into sieve; let drain in refrigerator 4 to 6 hours or until yogurt remaining in sieve measures 2 cups. Discard liquid in bowl.
Spray base and sides of 8-inch springform pan with nonstick baking spray.
Sprinkle cracker crumbs evenly over base of pan; set aside. Stir together sugar, cocoa and cornstarch.
Using electric mixer, beat cream cheese until smooth.
Beat in eggs and egg whites one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Slowly blend in cocoa mixture and orange rind until combined.
Whisk in yogurt until smooth.
Pour cheesecake mixture into prepared pan. Bake for about 1 hour and 10 minutes, until cheesecake is just set but centre still jiggles slightly. Turn oven off.
Run a sharp knife around edge of pan to loosen. Leave cheesecake in oven with door closed for 1 hour. Remove from oven. Place on wire rack; let cool completely. Refrigerate, covered, until chilled. Release sides of pan; place cheesecake on serving plate.

Serves: 16

Reduce oven temperature to 300 degrees F if using a dark nonstick springform pan.

Top with fresh fruit just before serving.

• Ingredients

1 ½ cups Graham Cracker Crumbs or Oreos/ginger snaps cookies
3 tablespoons sugar
⅓ cup butter or margarine, melted

Filling:
4 (8 ounce) packages Philadelphia Cream Cheese, softened
1 cup sugar
2 Tbsp lemon juice
1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
1 teaspoon vanilla
4 eggs

• preparation

Heat oven to 325°F.
Mix graham crumbs or Oreos or ginger snaps cookies , 3 Tbsp. sugar and butter; press onto bottom and sides of a 9-inch springform pan.
Beat cream cheese, 1 cup sugar and vanilla with mixer until blended. Add eggs, 1 at a time, mixing on low speed after each just until blended. Mix in lemon juice and sour cream or Greek yogurt. Pour over crust.
Bake 55 min. or until center is almost set. Loosen cake from rim of pan; cool before removing rim. Refrigerate 4 hours.

When searching for a simple, delicious dessert that's sure to impress, look no further than this traditional cheesecake.

• preparation

Heat oven to 325°F.
Mix graham crumbs or Oreos or ginger snaps cookies , 3 Tbsp. sugar and butter; press onto bottom and sides of a 9-inch springform pan.
Beat cream cheese, 1 cup sugar and vanilla with mixer until blended. Add eggs, 1 at a time, mixing on low speed after each just until blended. Mix in lemon juice and sour cream or Greek yogurt. Pour over crust.
Bake 55 min. or until center is almost set. Loosen cake from rim of pan; cool before removing rim. Refrigerate 4 hours.

When searching for a simple, delicious dessert that's sure to impress, look no further than this traditional cheesecake.

Serves: 8

• Ingredients

3 pounds cod fillets
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon white pepper
1/2 cup white wine
1 1/2 pounds cleaned spinach
2 cups Mornay sauce
1/2 cup grated Swiss cheese

• preparation

Bone and skin the fillets. Cut into 8 equal portions. Arrange in a buttered baking pan. Season with salt and pepper. Pour the wine over. Cover with foil, and bake at 350 F (180 C) until flaky.
Blanch the spinach in salted boiling water. Drain and squeeze out excess of water. Mix a small amount of sauce into spinach. Spread the bottom of an oven proof serving dish with chopped spinach.
Arrange the fish on top, and pour the remaining sauce over. Sprinkle with cheese, and brown under a broiler.

• preparation

Bone and skin the fillets. Cut into 8 equal portions. Arrange in a buttered baking pan. Season with salt and pepper. Pour the wine over. Cover with foil, and bake at 350 F (180 C) until flaky.
Blanch the spinach in salted boiling water. Drain and squeeze out excess of water. Mix a small amount of sauce into spinach. Spread the bottom of an oven proof serving dish with chopped spinach.
Arrange the fish on top, and pour the remaining sauce over. Sprinkle with cheese, and brown under a broiler.

Serves: 8

• Ingredients

16 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup sour cream
2 cups heavy cream
1 teaspoon instant vanilla pudding
1/2 cup superfine sugar

• preparation

Mix cream cheese with sour cream until smooth. Whip the cream and instant vanilla pudding until firm. Add sugar then whip until stiff. Fold cream into cream cheese mix. Spoon mixture into a heart-shaped mold lined with cheese cloth. Refrigerate for 2 hours or until set. Unmold on serving dish. Serve with strawberry or raspberry sauce.

• preparation

Mix cream cheese with sour cream until smooth. Whip the cream and instant vanilla pudding until firm. Add sugar then whip until stiff. Fold cream into cream cheese mix. Spoon mixture into a heart-shaped mold lined with cheese cloth. Refrigerate for 2 hours or until set. Unmold on serving dish. Serve with strawberry or raspberry sauce.

Serves: 4

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.

• 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.

Serves: 4

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.

• 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.

Serves: 12

• Ingredients

1 1/2 cups fine vanilla wafer crumbs
3/4 cup sugar
1/3 cup butter, melted
5 eggs
1/4 cup orange juice
1/4 cup dark rum
1 envelop unflavored gelatin
3 8-ounce packages cream cheese (light or regular)
2 teaspoons vanilla
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/4 cup cranberry sauce

• preparation

Combine crumbs and 1/4 cup sugar. Blend well with a fork. Stir in butter. Press evenly into bottom and partway up sides of a 9-inch springform pan. Refrigerate.
Separate 3 eggs, placing whites into a clean large bowl and yolks in a small dish.
Pour orange juice and rum into a heavy bottomed saucepan. Sprinkle gelatin over top. Let stand to soften, about 5 minutes.
Whisk in remaining 1/2 cup sugar, 2 whole eggs and 3 egg yolks.
Stir constantly over medium low heat until sugar dissolves and mixture thickens a little. Remove from heat. Beat cream cheese until smooth.
Beating at high speed, gradually add orange mixture, about ½ cup at a time, until smooth. Beat in vanilla and nutmeg. Beat remaining egg whites until they hold soft peaks.
Place egg whites on top of cheese mixture. Gently fold together, until no lumps of egg white remain.
Pour into chilled shell. Break up cranberry sauce. Dot sauce on surface of cheesecake, then swirl slightly by drawing knife in gentle circles through the sauce.
Refrigerate until set, at least 4 hours. Cheesecake will keep well for 2 days.

• preparation

Combine crumbs and 1/4 cup sugar. Blend well with a fork. Stir in butter. Press evenly into bottom and partway up sides of a 9-inch springform pan. Refrigerate.
Separate 3 eggs, placing whites into a clean large bowl and yolks in a small dish.
Pour orange juice and rum into a heavy bottomed saucepan. Sprinkle gelatin over top. Let stand to soften, about 5 minutes.
Whisk in remaining 1/2 cup sugar, 2 whole eggs and 3 egg yolks.
Stir constantly over medium low heat until sugar dissolves and mixture thickens a little. Remove from heat. Beat cream cheese until smooth.
Beating at high speed, gradually add orange mixture, about ½ cup at a time, until smooth. Beat in vanilla and nutmeg. Beat remaining egg whites until they hold soft peaks.
Place egg whites on top of cheese mixture. Gently fold together, until no lumps of egg white remain.
Pour into chilled shell. Break up cranberry sauce. Dot sauce on surface of cheesecake, then swirl slightly by drawing knife in gentle circles through the sauce.
Refrigerate until set, at least 4 hours. Cheesecake will keep well for 2 days.

Serves: 10

• Ingredients

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
3 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature or thick Greek yogurt
4 ounces (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, softened
1 1/2 cups sugar
4 large eggs, at room temperature
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
1 cup wild blueberries

• preparation

Heat the oven to 325 degrees.
Spray a loaf pan that's about 8x5x3 inches with a nonstick coating. Combine together the flour, baking power, and salt until well blended.
With an electric mixer, beat the cream cheese and butter until pale. Sprinkle in the sugar and beat well until slightly fluffy. Scrape the sides of the bowl well. Add the eggs one at a time beating well until blended. With the mixer on low, add the flour, vanilla and lemon zest and mix well. Fold in the blueberries.
Transfer the batter into the loaf pan and bake until the cake is golden brown, and a toothpick comes out clean when inserted in the center of the cake, about an hour.
Let the cake cool for about 15 minutes and then invert the pan on a cake rack and tap to release cake. Cool completely on a rack before serving.

• preparation

Heat the oven to 325 degrees.
Spray a loaf pan that's about 8x5x3 inches with a nonstick coating. Combine together the flour, baking power, and salt until well blended.
With an electric mixer, beat the cream cheese and butter until pale. Sprinkle in the sugar and beat well until slightly fluffy. Scrape the sides of the bowl well. Add the eggs one at a time beating well until blended. With the mixer on low, add the flour, vanilla and lemon zest and mix well. Fold in the blueberries.
Transfer the batter into the loaf pan and bake until the cake is golden brown, and a toothpick comes out clean when inserted in the center of the cake, about an hour.
Let the cake cool for about 15 minutes and then invert the pan on a cake rack and tap to release cake. Cool completely on a rack before serving.

Serves: 6

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.

• 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.

Serves: 8

• Ingredients

Crust:
1 1/2 cups flour
2 teaspoons finely grated orange rind
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup cold butter, cubed
1/4 cup cold shortening, cubed
1 egg yolk
1 teaspoon vinegar

Filling:
1 14 ounce can pumpkin purée
1 cup packed brown sugar
1 package (4 ounces) cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup whipping cream
2 eggs
1 tablespoon flour
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon vanilla

Topping:
1/2 cup whipping cream, whipped

• preparation

Crust:
Combine flour, rind and salt; using pastry blender or 2 knives, cut in butter and shortening until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. In measuring cup, whisk egg yolk with vinegar; pour in enough ice water to make 1/3 cup. Drizzle egg mixture over flour mixture; toss with fork until dough starts to hold together, adding a little more ice water if necessary.
Form into ball; press into disc. Wrap in plastic wrap; refrigerate for 1 hour. Preheat oven to 375 degrees. On floured surface, roll out pastry to 1/8 inch thickness. Place in 9 inch pie plate, draping loosely . Without stretching, fit into plate. Trim edges to leave 1 inch overhang. Fold edge under and flute. Prick shell all over and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Gather pastry scraps together and roll out. Using small pumpkin shaped cookie cutter, cut out 11 shapes. Transfer to baking sheet; bake in bottom third of oven for about 12 minutes or until golden. Transfer to rack, let cool. Line pastry shell with foil; fill evenly with pie weights or dried beans. Bake in bottom third of oven for 15 minutes; remove weights and foil. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes longer or until pastry just starts to turn golden. Reduce heat to 350 degrees.
In food processor, purée pumpkin, sugar, cheese, cream, eggs, flour, cinnamon, vanilla, ginger, nutmeg and salt. Pour into pie shell; bake in bottom third of oven for 1 hour or until set in center.
Let cool on rack.
Topping:
Pipe cream into 8 rosettes around edge; top each with pastry pumpkin cookies.

• preparation

Crust:
Combine flour, rind and salt; using pastry blender or 2 knives, cut in butter and shortening until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. In measuring cup, whisk egg yolk with vinegar; pour in enough ice water to make 1/3 cup. Drizzle egg mixture over flour mixture; toss with fork until dough starts to hold together, adding a little more ice water if necessary.
Form into ball; press into disc. Wrap in plastic wrap; refrigerate for 1 hour. Preheat oven to 375 degrees. On floured surface, roll out pastry to 1/8 inch thickness. Place in 9 inch pie plate, draping loosely . Without stretching, fit into plate. Trim edges to leave 1 inch overhang. Fold edge under and flute. Prick shell all over and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Gather pastry scraps together and roll out. Using small pumpkin shaped cookie cutter, cut out 11 shapes. Transfer to baking sheet; bake in bottom third of oven for about 12 minutes or until golden. Transfer to rack, let cool. Line pastry shell with foil; fill evenly with pie weights or dried beans. Bake in bottom third of oven for 15 minutes; remove weights and foil. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes longer or until pastry just starts to turn golden. Reduce heat to 350 degrees.
In food processor, purée pumpkin, sugar, cheese, cream, eggs, flour, cinnamon, vanilla, ginger, nutmeg and salt. Pour into pie shell; bake in bottom third of oven for 1 hour or until set in center.
Let cool on rack.
Topping:
Pipe cream into 8 rosettes around edge; top each with pastry pumpkin cookies.

Serves: 4

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."

• 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."

Serves: 16

This rich, creamy cheesecake with crème de menthe and mint candies will impress everyone. You can even make it a day ahead!

• Ingredients

Crust Ingredients:
2 cups finely crushed chocolate graham crackers
1/2 cup butter, melted

Filling Ingredients:
1 cup sugar 3 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
4 eggs
1/3 cup green or white creme de menthe liqueur*
1 (4.67-ounce) package creme de menthe chocolate mint candy thins, chopped (reserve 6 for garnish)
1 teaspoon all-purpose flour
Whipped Heavy Cream, if desired

• preparation

Heat oven to 375°F. Stir together all crust ingredients in large bowl until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press onto bottom and 1 inch up side of lightly greased 9-inch springform pan; set aside.
Combine sugar and cream cheese in large bowl. Beat at medium speed, scraping bowl often, until creamy. Continue beating, adding eggs one at a time, until well mixed. (DO NOT OVER BEAT.) Stir in liqueur by hand. Stir together 1/2 cup chopped mints and 1 teaspoon flour in small bowl; gently stir into cream cheese mixture.
Pour filling onto crust. Sprinkle with remaining chopped mints. Bake for 45 to 55 minutes or until firm to touch. (Cheesecake surface may be slightly cracked.) Loosen side of cheesecake by running knife around inside of pan. Cool 1 hour. Cover; refrigerate at least 3 hours.
Garnish top of cheesecake with whipped cream and top with reserved mints, if desired. Store refrigerated.
*Substitute 1 teaspoon peppermint extract plus 6 drops green food color.

• preparation

Heat oven to 375°F. Stir together all crust ingredients in large bowl until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press onto bottom and 1 inch up side of lightly greased 9-inch springform pan; set aside.
Combine sugar and cream cheese in large bowl. Beat at medium speed, scraping bowl often, until creamy. Continue beating, adding eggs one at a time, until well mixed. (DO NOT OVER BEAT.) Stir in liqueur by hand. Stir together 1/2 cup chopped mints and 1 teaspoon flour in small bowl; gently stir into cream cheese mixture.
Pour filling onto crust. Sprinkle with remaining chopped mints. Bake for 45 to 55 minutes or until firm to touch. (Cheesecake surface may be slightly cracked.) Loosen side of cheesecake by running knife around inside of pan. Cool 1 hour. Cover; refrigerate at least 3 hours.
Garnish top of cheesecake with whipped cream and top with reserved mints, if desired. Store refrigerated.
*Substitute 1 teaspoon peppermint extract plus 6 drops green food color.

Serves: 4

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.

• 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.

Serves: 8

• Ingredients

1 crown roast of lamb
2 teaspoons minced fresh sage
2 tablespoon parmesan cheese
2 tablespoon bread crumbs
2 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
salt and ground pepper to taste

• preparation

Preheat oven to 425 degrees.
Place the roast, crown side down, in a roasting pan. Bake for 35 to 55 minutes according to he degree of doneness.
Meanwhile, combine the sage, Parmesan, bread crumb and garlic, salt and pepper in a bowl.
Remove the roast from the oven and pat the sage mixture on the outside of the roast.
Bake for 5 more minutes. Remove from oven. Cut the roast and serve immediately.

• preparation

Preheat oven to 425 degrees.
Place the roast, crown side down, in a roasting pan. Bake for 35 to 55 minutes according to he degree of doneness.
Meanwhile, combine the sage, Parmesan, bread crumb and garlic, salt and pepper in a bowl.
Remove the roast from the oven and pat the sage mixture on the outside of the roast.
Bake for 5 more minutes. Remove from oven. Cut the roast and serve immediately.

Serves: 8

• Ingredients

GUACAMOLE:

2 ripe avocados
juice of one lemon
1/2 small red onion, diced
1 tomato, seeded and diced
salt to taste
hot pepper sauce to taste

Peel avocados, cut in halves, remove stones, and mash the avocados.
Add remaining ingredients, and mix.

BLUE CHEESE DIP:

1/2 pint sour cream
1/4 cup milk
1/3 cup blue cheese, crumbled
2 tablespoons red onion, finely diced

In bowl, combine all the ingredients well. Serve chilled.

SALSA:

1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and chopped
1 large clove garlic, peeled and chopped
1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
2 large tomatoes, peeled and finely chopped
1 cucumber, peeled and finely chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
juice of one lemon or lime
salt and pepper to taste
cilantro or parsley for garnish.

In bowl, combine all the ingredients well. Garnish with parsley or cilantro.

• preparation

GUACAMOLE:

Peel avocados, cut in halves, remove stones, and mash the avocados.
Add remaining ingredients, and mix.

BLUE CHEESE DIP:

In bowl, combine all the ingredients well. Serve chilled.

SALSA:

In bowl, combine all the ingredients well. Garnish with parsley or cilantro.

• preparation

GUACAMOLE:

Peel avocados, cut in halves, remove stones, and mash the avocados.
Add remaining ingredients, and mix.

BLUE CHEESE DIP:

In bowl, combine all the ingredients well. Serve chilled.

SALSA:

In bowl, combine all the ingredients well. Garnish with parsley or cilantro.

Serves: 8

Try our PHILADELPHIA 3-STEP Double Layer Pumpkin Cheesecake this Thanksgiving. In one layer, you get the fabulous classic flavor of cheesecake, and in the other, you get the sweet flavor of pumpkin and spices. This 3-step double layer pumpkin cheesecake takes 10 minutes of prep.

• Ingredients

2 pkg. (8 oz. each) PHILADELPHIA Cream Cheese, softened
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 tsp. vanilla
2 eggs
1/2 cup canned pumpkin
1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon
dash of ground cloves
dash of ground nutmeg
1 ready-to-use graham cracker crumb crust (6 oz.)

• preparation

Heat oven to 325°F.
Beat cream cheese, sugar and vanilla with mixer until blended. Add eggs; mix just until blended. Remove 1 cup batter; stir in pumpkin and spices.
Pour remaining plain batter into crust; top with pumpkin batter.
Bake 40 min. or until center is almost set. Cool. Refrigerate 3 hours or until firm.

• preparation

Heat oven to 325°F.
Beat cream cheese, sugar and vanilla with mixer until blended. Add eggs; mix just until blended. Remove 1 cup batter; stir in pumpkin and spices.
Pour remaining plain batter into crust; top with pumpkin batter.
Bake 40 min. or until center is almost set. Cool. Refrigerate 3 hours or until firm.

Serves: 4

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.

• 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.

Serves: 6

The recipe lends itself to variations such as substituting the baked egg in the potato shell with a poached egg. Add caramelized onions and Gruyere . Kick things up with some cayenne pepper.
Princess Diana’s favorite breakfast dishes was an Egg Suzette aka BJP (Baked Jacket Potato): a baked potato scooped out with wilted spinach or creamed prawns, (tiny shrimp) in the bottom and a poached egg on top with a little hollandaise sauce and some potatoes piped around the edges.

• Ingredients

6 whole medium baking potatoes
6 tbsp butter
3 tbsp sour cream
1 tbsp chopped chives
2 tbsp crumbled bacon, crisp
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp freshly ground pepper
6 whole eggs
1 cup grated cheddar cheese

• preparation

Bake the potatoes using your favorite method and be sure to allow some time for them to cool down before the scooping.

Take the “top” of the potato to mean lengthwise and not the small end.
Scoop out the potatoes and blend well with the butter, sour cream, chives, bacon, and salt and pepper.

Beat lightly and spoon back into the shells. Make a hollow in the top of each potato and into this drop a raw egg.

Sprinkle lavishly with grated Cheddar cheese, and place in a 350°F oven long enough to cook the eggs and melt the cheese. Makes a delicious breakfast or supper dish.

• preparation

Bake the potatoes using your favorite method and be sure to allow some time for them to cool down before the scooping.

Take the “top” of the potato to mean lengthwise and not the small end.
Scoop out the potatoes and blend well with the butter, sour cream, chives, bacon, and salt and pepper.

Beat lightly and spoon back into the shells. Make a hollow in the top of each potato and into this drop a raw egg.

Sprinkle lavishly with grated Cheddar cheese, and place in a 350°F oven long enough to cook the eggs and melt the cheese. Makes a delicious breakfast or supper dish.

Serves: 2

THE CHILI AFFAIR

Ema Datshi, the national dish of Bhutan is a deliciously spicy stew made of chili peppers, onions and locally produced yak cheese.

Bhutanese have an undying love affair with chili peppers. Their journey with chilies begins from their infant age. Every dish in the Bhutanese cuisine invariably has copious amounts of chilies. People don’t touch the dish if it is not spicy enough.

known widely as the “national dish of Bhutan.” “Ema” means chiles, and “Datshi” means cheese.
It is a simple stew made of a variety of chilies and a special cheese, yak cheese, called datshi. Variations of this dish include potatoes (kewa datshi), beef, beans (semchung datshi) or mushrooms (shamu datshi). But just chilies and cheese are their favorite! The chilies that are used in the ema datshi are really spicy and this dish is served over a bed of red rice, another staple food of the Bhutanese.

To balance the heat quotient in the dish, tomatoes, butter and cheese are added. In spite of this, it is hard to have one spoon without rushing for a glass of water. The Himalayan has a rare and unique kind of cheese named chhurpi.

• Ingredients

10 oz. chili peppers (spicy Thai green/red chilies and jalapeño)
1 red onion , sliced
1 tomato , sliced
3 cloves garlic , crushed
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 cup water
10 oz cheese , grated (a combination of cheddar or farmers cheese)
Salt to taste

• preparation

Heat a pan and add butter. Add the sliced onion, tomato, garlic and chillies. Give them a quick toss and add the water. Season them with salt. Cover and cook until the peppers become tender.
Turn off the flame and add the cheese and let it melt in the residual heat.
Serve it over a bed of red or white rice.
Notes
For a flavorful dish, use a combination of chillies like Anaheim, jalapeño, and green chilies (Thai or Indian variety).
Increase or reduce the amount of chillies based on your tolerance for heat. You can also remove the pith and ribs to reduce the heat quotient
You can use any type of cheese especially one that melts. Avoid using stringy cheese like mozzarella. A combination of farmer’s cheese, blue cheese & cheddar would be good.

• preparation

Heat a pan and add butter. Add the sliced onion, tomato, garlic and chillies. Give them a quick toss and add the water. Season them with salt. Cover and cook until the peppers become tender.
Turn off the flame and add the cheese and let it melt in the residual heat.
Serve it over a bed of red or white rice.
Notes
For a flavorful dish, use a combination of chillies like Anaheim, jalapeño, and green chilies (Thai or Indian variety).
Increase or reduce the amount of chillies based on your tolerance for heat. You can also remove the pith and ribs to reduce the heat quotient
You can use any type of cheese especially one that melts. Avoid using stringy cheese like mozzarella. A combination of farmer’s cheese, blue cheese & cheddar would be good.

Serves: 8

• 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

• 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

Serves: 8

• 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.

• 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.

Serves: 2

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.

• 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.

Serves: 2

• Ingredients

2 6-inch diameter whole wheat pita breads
1 6.5 ounce jar marinated artichoke hearts
1 1/2 cups crumbled feta cheese
1 14.5- ounce can diced tomatoes with Italian herbs, drained well
1 cup pitted Kalamata olives, coarsely chopped
2 teaspoons dried oregano

• preparation

Preheat oven to 450 degrees.
Cut pita bread in half horizontally. Drain artichokes, reserve marinade, and cut any large pieces in halves. Place breads on large baking sheet.
Brush breads with some of artichoke marinade. Bake until just beginning to color. Cool on sheets. Sprinkle breads almost to edges with crumbled feta cheese.
Top with tomatoes, olives, oregano and artichokes. Drizzle with remaining artichoke marinade.
Bake pizzas until heated through, about 4 minutes. Cut into wedges.

• preparation

Preheat oven to 450 degrees.
Cut pita bread in half horizontally. Drain artichokes, reserve marinade, and cut any large pieces in halves. Place breads on large baking sheet.
Brush breads with some of artichoke marinade. Bake until just beginning to color. Cool on sheets. Sprinkle breads almost to edges with crumbled feta cheese.
Top with tomatoes, olives, oregano and artichokes. Drizzle with remaining artichoke marinade.
Bake pizzas until heated through, about 4 minutes. Cut into wedges.

Serves: 4

• Ingredients

1 piece of 6×9″ lavash cut into 3-inch rectangles
24 small fiddleheads
1/4 cup ramp (wild onion), chopped (can substitute leeks or caramelized onions)
1 cup Pecorino cheese, grated
1/2 cup marinara sauce
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
1 teaspoon dried oregano
olive oil
salt+ pepper

• preparation

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
Bring a small pot of salted water to a boil.
Clean the fiddleheads (this is important): You want to remove any of the brown, papery material casing the fiddlehead. Wash them extremely thoroughly to remove this.
Blanch the fiddleheads for five minutes in the salted water. Drain, and place in an ice bath to cool.
Meanwhile, prepare the lavash. Place it on a baking sheet and brush it lightly with olive oil. Sprinkle salt and pepper over the lavash. Arrange the marinara sauce on the flatbread, followed by the ramp, cheese, fiddleheads and herbs
Bake for about 10 minutes at 375 degrees, until the cheese is golden and bubbling and the edges of the flatbread are nicely browned. Best served immediately! Enjoy.

• preparation

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
Bring a small pot of salted water to a boil.
Clean the fiddleheads (this is important): You want to remove any of the brown, papery material casing the fiddlehead. Wash them extremely thoroughly to remove this.
Blanch the fiddleheads for five minutes in the salted water. Drain, and place in an ice bath to cool.
Meanwhile, prepare the lavash. Place it on a baking sheet and brush it lightly with olive oil. Sprinkle salt and pepper over the lavash. Arrange the marinara sauce on the flatbread, followed by the ramp, cheese, fiddleheads and herbs
Bake for about 10 minutes at 375 degrees, until the cheese is golden and bubbling and the edges of the flatbread are nicely browned. Best served immediately! Enjoy.

Serves: 4

• Ingredients

8 lamb chops, trimmed
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
10 ounces cooked spinach, drained and chopped
6 ounces cream cheese
1 egg
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped onion
1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon salt

• preparation

Brush lamb chops with oil, season with thyme and black pepper.
Broil 4 to 6 minutes on each side or until desired doneness. Remove from broiler, cover and set aside.
In a saucepan, combine cream cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, onion and nutmeg. Cook over low heat while stirring for 10 minutes or until cream cheese is melted. Add the spinach and blend well.
Heat for 5 minutes.
Arrange spinach mixture on a serving platter, top with lamb chops. Season with salt.

• preparation

Brush lamb chops with oil, season with thyme and black pepper.
Broil 4 to 6 minutes on each side or until desired doneness. Remove from broiler, cover and set aside.
In a saucepan, combine cream cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, onion and nutmeg. Cook over low heat while stirring for 10 minutes or until cream cheese is melted. Add the spinach and blend well.
Heat for 5 minutes.
Arrange spinach mixture on a serving platter, top with lamb chops. Season with salt.

Serves: 4

• Ingredients

1/3 cup oil
3 cups sliced onions
1 quart beef stock
1 package onion soup mix
1/3 teaspoon thyme
8 toasted sliced French baguettes
3/4 cup grated Swiss cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• preparation

Cook the onions over medium heat in the oil until brown. Add the beef stock, onion soup mix and thyme and boil 15 minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Place the toasted bread croutons in individual onion soup bowls or large oven proof casserole. Ladle the soup over and sprinkle with the cheese.
Bake on the top rack of the oven at 375 degrees for 10 to 15 minutes or until brown. Serve hot.

• preparation

Cook the onions over medium heat in the oil until brown. Add the beef stock, onion soup mix and thyme and boil 15 minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Place the toasted bread croutons in individual onion soup bowls or large oven proof casserole. Ladle the soup over and sprinkle with the cheese.
Bake on the top rack of the oven at 375 degrees for 10 to 15 minutes or until brown. Serve hot.

Serves: 4

• Ingredients

1/3 cup Greek yogurt
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
5 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 15-ounce can chickpeas, rinsed, drained, and dried very well
1 bunch scallions, white and green parts, coarsely chopped (about 1 cup)
3 garlic cloves, sliced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
3 cups baby arugula, washed and dried
3 cups baby kale, washed and dried
1 1/2 cups halved cherry tomatoes
1/2 cup coarsely chopped fresh cilantro
1/2 cup coarsely chopped fresh mint
1/4 cup finely crumbled feta cheese
2 tablespoons pine nuts, toasted

• preparation

1. In a small bowl, stir together the yogurt, lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon of the oil. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside.

2. In a large skillet over high heat, add 3 tablespoons of the oil. When the oil is hot, add the chickpeas. Cook, tossing occasionally, until they're golden and crisp on the exterior, 6 to 7 minutes.

3. Reduce the heat to medium high and add the scallions, garlic, and cumin. Cook and stir until the scallions just begin to wilt, about 2 minutes. Transfer to a large serving bowl and let cool slightly, about 15 minutes.

4. Add the arugula, kale, tomatoes, cilantro, mint, cheese, and pine nuts to the bowl with the chickpeas. Pour over the yogurt dressing, season with salt and pepper, and drizzle with the remaining 1 tablespoon oil. Toss well and serve.

• preparation

1. In a small bowl, stir together the yogurt, lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon of the oil. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside.

2. In a large skillet over high heat, add 3 tablespoons of the oil. When the oil is hot, add the chickpeas. Cook, tossing occasionally, until they're golden and crisp on the exterior, 6 to 7 minutes.

3. Reduce the heat to medium high and add the scallions, garlic, and cumin. Cook and stir until the scallions just begin to wilt, about 2 minutes. Transfer to a large serving bowl and let cool slightly, about 15 minutes.

4. Add the arugula, kale, tomatoes, cilantro, mint, cheese, and pine nuts to the bowl with the chickpeas. Pour over the yogurt dressing, season with salt and pepper, and drizzle with the remaining 1 tablespoon oil. Toss well and serve.

Serves: 4

A frittata is an Italian-style flat omelet that's baked in a skillet. This frittata recipe features spinach, mushrooms and Fontina cheese. It's perfect for holiday brunches or other special occasions. Many variations are made using bacon, asparagus, peas and other ingredients.

• Ingredients

2 tablespoons (1/4 stick) butter
1 cup chopped leeks (white and pale green parts only)
½ lb fresh spinach, rinsed, dried and torn into roughly 1-inch pieces
1 cup sliced stemmed mushrooms
8 large eggs
1 cup diced Fontina cheese, divided
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• preparation

Preheat broiler.
Melt butter in heavy broilerproof 10-inch-diameter nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add leeks and sauté 4 minutes. Add spinach and mushrooms, sprinkle lightly with salt, and sauté until tender, about 6 minutes.
In a medium bowl, Whisk eggs, 3/4 cup Fontina cheese, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Add egg mixture to skillet; fold gently to combine. Cook until almost set. Sprinkle remaining 1/4 cup Fontina cheese and Parmesan cheese over. Broil until frittata is puffed and cheese begins to turn golden, about 3 minutes. Cut into wedges and serve.

• preparation

Preheat broiler.
Melt butter in heavy broilerproof 10-inch-diameter nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add leeks and sauté 4 minutes. Add spinach and mushrooms, sprinkle lightly with salt, and sauté until tender, about 6 minutes.
In a medium bowl, Whisk eggs, 3/4 cup Fontina cheese, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Add egg mixture to skillet; fold gently to combine. Cook until almost set. Sprinkle remaining 1/4 cup Fontina cheese and Parmesan cheese over. Broil until frittata is puffed and cheese begins to turn golden, about 3 minutes. Cut into wedges and serve.

Serves: 8

• 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.

• 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.

Serves: 6

• 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.

• 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.

Serves: 6

These simple, colorful little cheese toasts can be served as an appetizer or alongside a green salad.

• Ingredients

5 ounces goat cheese
1 teaspoon cream
1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
1teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
1/4 cup olive oil
12 long slices of baguette, cut diagonally about 1/4 inch thick
3 to 4 sun-dried tomatoes
freshly ground black pepper

• preparation

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees. In a mixing bowl, combine the cheese and cream together.
Mix in half of the herbs and set it aside. Brush one side of the bread slices with olive oil, and toast them in the oven or under the broiler so that both sides are lightly colored.
Remove them from the oven and spread the cheese over the oiled sides. Drain the sun-dried tomatoes, and slice into narrow strips.
Lay the strips of tomato in a crisscross or diagonal pattern over the top and return the bread to the oven.
Bake until the cheese is warm and soft, about 3 minutes. Garnish with the remaining herbs and a grinding of black pepper over the top.

• preparation

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees. In a mixing bowl, combine the cheese and cream together.
Mix in half of the herbs and set it aside. Brush one side of the bread slices with olive oil, and toast them in the oven or under the broiler so that both sides are lightly colored.
Remove them from the oven and spread the cheese over the oiled sides. Drain the sun-dried tomatoes, and slice into narrow strips.
Lay the strips of tomato in a crisscross or diagonal pattern over the top and return the bread to the oven.
Bake until the cheese is warm and soft, about 3 minutes. Garnish with the remaining herbs and a grinding of black pepper over the top.

Serves: 6

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.

• 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.

Serves: 8

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.

• 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.

Serves: 8

• Ingredients

Crust:
2 cup crushed coconut cookies
2 teaspoons grated lemon rind
1/2 cup melted butter

Filling:
2 grapefruits
3 eggs
2/3 cup sugar
1/8 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup grapefruit juice from the fresh fruit
1-1/2 tablespoons gelatin
1/4 cup water
1 pound cream cheese, softened at room temperature
1-1/4 tablespoons lemon juice
2 teaspoons grated orange rind
1 teaspoon grated lemon rind
2/3 cup whipping cream

• preparation

Mix together the crushed cookies, lemon rind and melted butter. Firmly press on the bottom of a 9 inch spring form pan.
Peel the grapefruits and cut the segments into small pieces. Drain juice and reserve for filling.
Separate 2 eggs and combine the egg yolks, the remaining whole egg, sugar, salt and 1 tablespoon of the juice in the top of a double boiler. Place over simmering water and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat.
Soak the gelatin in the water for 5 minutes. Stir into the warm custard until dissolved.
Beat cream cheese with remaining grapefruit juice, lemon juice and rinds (zest) until smooth. Beat into the custard. Fold in the grapefruit pieces. Lightly whip the cream.
Beat the egg whites in an electric mixer until they form soft peaks. Fold the cream and egg whites into the cheese mixture.
Pour into the prepared spring form pan and chill for several hours or overnight.

• preparation

Mix together the crushed cookies, lemon rind and melted butter. Firmly press on the bottom of a 9 inch spring form pan.
Peel the grapefruits and cut the segments into small pieces. Drain juice and reserve for filling.
Separate 2 eggs and combine the egg yolks, the remaining whole egg, sugar, salt and 1 tablespoon of the juice in the top of a double boiler. Place over simmering water and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat.
Soak the gelatin in the water for 5 minutes. Stir into the warm custard until dissolved.
Beat cream cheese with remaining grapefruit juice, lemon juice and rinds (zest) until smooth. Beat into the custard. Fold in the grapefruit pieces. Lightly whip the cream.
Beat the egg whites in an electric mixer until they form soft peaks. Fold the cream and egg whites into the cheese mixture.
Pour into the prepared spring form pan and chill for several hours or overnight.

Serves: 8

• Ingredients

1 tablespoon butter
2 pounds potatoes
4 cloves minced garlic
3/4 cup milk
2 cups heavy cream
2 cups grated Swiss cheese (Gruyere or Emmenthal)
to taste salt and pepper

• preparation

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
Butter a baking dish about 6 by 10 inches. Peel potatoes and cut into 1/4-inch slices.
Blanch potatoes in salted boiling water for 5 minutes. Drain well.
In a large mixing bowl, combine potatoes, garlic, milk, cream and half of the grated cheese, salt and pepper to taste.
Spoon into prepared dish. It should be no more than 3/4 full. Sprinkle evenly with cheese. Bake for about 45 minutes, or until potatoes are tender and gratin is golden brown.

• preparation

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
Butter a baking dish about 6 by 10 inches. Peel potatoes and cut into 1/4-inch slices.
Blanch potatoes in salted boiling water for 5 minutes. Drain well.
In a large mixing bowl, combine potatoes, garlic, milk, cream and half of the grated cheese, salt and pepper to taste.
Spoon into prepared dish. It should be no more than 3/4 full. Sprinkle evenly with cheese. Bake for about 45 minutes, or until potatoes are tender and gratin is golden brown.

Serves: 5

Serve this gratin as a first course, as a side dish with grilled chicken.

• Ingredients

5 tbsp olive oil, plus extra for greasing
450g/1lb ruby or Swiss chard, stems and broad ribs cut into 1cm/½in pieces, leaves finely sliced
salt and freshly ground black pepper
60g/2oz black olives, stones removed
2 canned anchovy fillets, chopped
2 sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
½ tbsp capers, rinsed and drained
1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
60g/2oz gruyère cheese, grated
30g/1oz parmesan, freshly grated

• preparation

Preheat the oven to 190C/375F/Gas 5.
Heat two tablespoons of the olive oil in a wide, lidded pan and add the chopped chard ribs. Stir, then cover and cook over a low heat for four minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add the leaves, stir, then cover again and cook for a further five minutes, or until just tender. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper and set aside.
Place the olives, anchovies, sun-dried tomatoes, capers, parsley and two tablespoons of olive oil into a food processor and blend to make a smooth paste.
Lightly oil a 30cm/12in ovenproof dish. Place a layer of the chard, along with any cooking juices. Spread a little of the olive paste over the chard and season with freshly ground black pepper. Continue to layer up the chard, spreading more of the olive paste between each layer and finishing with a layer of chard.
Mix the gruyère and parmesan in a bowl and sprinkle over the top of the gratin. Drizzle over the remaining tablespoon of olive oil.
Transfer to the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is browned and bubbling. Serve hot or warm.

• preparation

Preheat the oven to 190C/375F/Gas 5.
Heat two tablespoons of the olive oil in a wide, lidded pan and add the chopped chard ribs. Stir, then cover and cook over a low heat for four minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add the leaves, stir, then cover again and cook for a further five minutes, or until just tender. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper and set aside.
Place the olives, anchovies, sun-dried tomatoes, capers, parsley and two tablespoons of olive oil into a food processor and blend to make a smooth paste.
Lightly oil a 30cm/12in ovenproof dish. Place a layer of the chard, along with any cooking juices. Spread a little of the olive paste over the chard and season with freshly ground black pepper. Continue to layer up the chard, spreading more of the olive paste between each layer and finishing with a layer of chard.
Mix the gruyère and parmesan in a bowl and sprinkle over the top of the gratin. Drizzle over the remaining tablespoon of olive oil.
Transfer to the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is browned and bubbling. Serve hot or warm.

Serves: 6

• Ingredients

3/4 pound tomatoes, chopped
1 large red pepper, seeded and chopped
1/4 pound feta cheese, crumbled
1/2 cup olive oil
1/2 cup chopped pitted black olives (brine-cured)
1/4 cup lemon juice
2 tablespoons white wine
1 tablespoon dried thyme
6 green onions, chopped
3 large garlic cloves, chopped
3/4 pound linguine, freshly cooked
3/4 pound cooked shrimp

• preparation

Mix first 10 ingredients in large bowl.
Add linguine and shrimp and toss to blend.
Season salad to taste with salt and pepper.

• preparation

Mix first 10 ingredients in large bowl.
Add linguine and shrimp and toss to blend.
Season salad to taste with salt and pepper.

Serves: 8

• 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.

• 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.

Serves: 4

• Ingredients

1/4 cup olive oil
4 teaspoons minced garlic
1 lb medium shrimp, uncooked peeled and deveined
1 1/2 cups drained canned artichoke hearts, chopped
1 cup crumbled feta cheese
1 cup chopped tomato
1/2 cup chopped Kalamata olives
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano
salt and red pepper flakes
12 ounces angel hair or spaghettini pasta

• preparation

In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat.

Add the garlic and stir for a minute to develop the flavor. Add shrimp to the skillet and saute for 2 minutes.

Add artichoke hearts, feta cheese, tomatoes, olives, lemon juice, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Saute for 2 minutes or until shrimp are cooked and pink.

Meanwhile, cook pasta in large pot of boiling salted water until just tender but still firm to bite, stirring occasionally. Drain. Transfer pasta to large bowl.

In a large bowl, stir together the pasta and shrimp mixture; toss to coat.

Season with more salt and pepper if needed and serve.

• preparation

In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat.

Add the garlic and stir for a minute to develop the flavor. Add shrimp to the skillet and saute for 2 minutes.

Add artichoke hearts, feta cheese, tomatoes, olives, lemon juice, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Saute for 2 minutes or until shrimp are cooked and pink.

Meanwhile, cook pasta in large pot of boiling salted water until just tender but still firm to bite, stirring occasionally. Drain. Transfer pasta to large bowl.

In a large bowl, stir together the pasta and shrimp mixture; toss to coat.

Season with more salt and pepper if needed and serve.

Serves: 4

Chicken may be marinated for an hour and baked instead of grilled.
The bruschetta can be made ahead of time

• Ingredients

4 small boneless skinless chicken breasts (1 lb.)
1/4 cup sun Dried Tomato Vinaigrette Dressing, divided OR Balsamic vinegar
1 tomato, finely chopped, or canned diced tomatoes
1/2 cup shredded Mozzarella Cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil

• preparation

Flatten the chicken breast slightly.
Coat chicken with 2 tablespoons of the dressing Marinate chicken in a shallow glass dish for 30 minutes to an hour.
Grill the chicken breasts or bake in a 400F oven t for 5 to 6 minutes. Discard the dressing.
Meanwhile, combine remaining dressing, tomatoes, cheese and basil.

Turn chicken over; place on foil. Top with tomato mixture. Grill or bake 8 min. or until chicken is done (165ºF).
Serve with pasta.

• preparation

Flatten the chicken breast slightly.
Coat chicken with 2 tablespoons of the dressing Marinate chicken in a shallow glass dish for 30 minutes to an hour.
Grill the chicken breasts or bake in a 400F oven t for 5 to 6 minutes. Discard the dressing.
Meanwhile, combine remaining dressing, tomatoes, cheese and basil.

Turn chicken over; place on foil. Top with tomato mixture. Grill or bake 8 min. or until chicken is done (165ºF).
Serve with pasta.

Serves: 6

• 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.

• 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.

Serves: 2

• Ingredients

4 large eggs
3 tablespoons chopped fresh Italian parsley
2 teaspoons water
1 teaspoon dried fines herbs or dried salad herbs
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
2 tablespoons (1/4 stick) butter
1/2 cup (packed) grated Gruyère cheese (about 2 ounces)

• preparation

Beat eggs, 2 tablespoons parsley, 2 teaspoons water, dried herbs, salt and pepper in small bowl to blend.
Melt 1 tablespoon butter in small nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add half of egg mixture (about 1/2 cup) to skillet. Cook until eggs are just set in center, tilting pan and lifting edge of omelet with spatula to let uncooked portion flow underneath, about 2 minutes.
Top half of omelet with 1/4 cup cheese.
Using spatula, fold other half of omelet over cheese; slide out onto plate. Repeat with remaining butter, egg mixture and cheese. Sprinkle omelets with remaining 1 tablespoon parsley.

• preparation

Beat eggs, 2 tablespoons parsley, 2 teaspoons water, dried herbs, salt and pepper in small bowl to blend.
Melt 1 tablespoon butter in small nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add half of egg mixture (about 1/2 cup) to skillet. Cook until eggs are just set in center, tilting pan and lifting edge of omelet with spatula to let uncooked portion flow underneath, about 2 minutes.
Top half of omelet with 1/4 cup cheese.
Using spatula, fold other half of omelet over cheese; slide out onto plate. Repeat with remaining butter, egg mixture and cheese. Sprinkle omelets with remaining 1 tablespoon parsley.

Serves: 6

• 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

• 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

Serves: 6

• Ingredients

1 tablespoon butter, soft
1 tablespoon dried bread crumbs
4 tablespoons butter
1/4 cup flour
1 cup milk
1 10-oz package frozen chopped spinach, thawed
1 cup grated cheddar cheese
1/2 cup chopped ham

4 large eggs, separated
1 large egg white
1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar

• preparation

Butter a 6 cup soufflé dish; dust the bottom and sides with two tablespoons of The bread crumbs. Set aside. In a 4-quart saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Stir in flour; cook 1 minute.
Whisk in milk; cook stirring with a whisk until mixture boils and thickens. Squeeze spinach dry; stir into sauce with cheese and ham. Cool. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Beat the egg whites with the cream of tartar to stiff peaks. Stir yolks into Cheese sauce, then gradually and gently fold in whites just until blended. Pour mixture into prepared soufflé dish. Bake 35 to 40 minutes. Serve immediately.

• preparation

Butter a 6 cup soufflé dish; dust the bottom and sides with two tablespoons of The bread crumbs. Set aside. In a 4-quart saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Stir in flour; cook 1 minute.
Whisk in milk; cook stirring with a whisk until mixture boils and thickens. Squeeze spinach dry; stir into sauce with cheese and ham. Cool. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Beat the egg whites with the cream of tartar to stiff peaks. Stir yolks into Cheese sauce, then gradually and gently fold in whites just until blended. Pour mixture into prepared soufflé dish. Bake 35 to 40 minutes. Serve immediately.

Serves: 4

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.

• 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.

Serves: 4

• Ingredients

1 bunch washed watercress
1 tablespoon chopped parsley
1 tablespoon grated Parmesan
3 eggs, separated
6 ounces softened cream cheese
2 tomatoes
to taste salt and pepper
1/4 teaspoon seasoned salt
1 teaspoon unflavored gelatin
2 tablespoons cold water

• preparation

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Line a jelly roll pan 8-inch by 12-inch with parchment paper.
Brush with butter. Remove stems from watercress. Chop and combine with parsley, Parmesan cheese, and egg yolks.
Whisk the whites, and fold in herb mixture. Spread over entire surface of pan, and bake 10-12 minutes. Cool.
Peel off the lining paper. Transfer to a sheet of transparent paper. Peel, seed, and chop tomatoes.
Add to cream cheese. Season. Dissolve gelatin in water. Melt and combine with cream cheese mixture.
Spread over surface of roulade. Roll up like a jelly roll. Chill. Unwrap, and slice into 20 rolls.

• preparation

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Line a jelly roll pan 8-inch by 12-inch with parchment paper.
Brush with butter. Remove stems from watercress. Chop and combine with parsley, Parmesan cheese, and egg yolks.
Whisk the whites, and fold in herb mixture. Spread over entire surface of pan, and bake 10-12 minutes. Cool.
Peel off the lining paper. Transfer to a sheet of transparent paper. Peel, seed, and chop tomatoes.
Add to cream cheese. Season. Dissolve gelatin in water. Melt and combine with cream cheese mixture.
Spread over surface of roulade. Roll up like a jelly roll. Chill. Unwrap, and slice into 20 rolls.

Serves: 8

• 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.

• 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.

Serves: 6

• 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.

• 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.

Serves: 8

• 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 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.

• 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.

Serves: 6

Roasting tomatoes in honey brings out their natural sweetness, especially When paired with tangy, whipped feta.
Served with toasted sourdough, it’s an impressive appetizer that belies its simple preparation.

• Ingredients

1/2 cup (125 mL) Greek feta
1/4 cup (60 mL) cream cheese
3 tbsp (45 mL) extra virgin olive oil,
divided, plus more for bread
1 tbsp (15 mL) lemon juice
1 tsp (5 mL) lemon zest
2 tbsp (30 mL) amber honey, such as wildflower or clover
2 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
3 cups (750 mL) cherry tomatoes
1/4 tsp (1 mL) fine sea salt
6 slices sourdough bread,
1/2 inch (1 cm) thick
Freshly ground black pepper and
sumac to taste
1/4 cup (60 mL) loosely packed
torn parsley

• preparation

1. Remove the feta from the brine and rinse very well in cold water. Dab dry with a paper towel.
Break up the block of feta and place in a food processor. Add cream cheese and sour cream, 2 tbsp (30 mL) oil, lemon juice and zest in bowl of a food processor. Process until smooth, 1 to 2 minutes. Spread onto a large plate. Refrigerate at least 30 minutes or up to overnight.
2. Arrange rack in top third of oven. Preheat oven to broil.
3. Combine honey, remaining 1 tbsp (15 mL) oil and garlic in a medium-size oven-proof skillet. Broil until garlic is golden-brown, about 2 minutes. Carefully remove from oven. Stir in paired with tangy, whipped feta.
tomatoes and salt. Broil, stirring halfway through, until tomatoes are blistered and charred, 10 to 12 minutes.
4. Using a slotted spoon, transfer tomatoes onto whipped feta. Place cooking liquid over medium-high heat. Reduce until thick enough to coat back of spoon, 3 to 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
5. Arrange bread in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Drizzle both sides with oil. Broil, watching closely, until golden-brown and slightly charred, 1 to 2 minutes per side. Let cool slightly, then tear in half.
6. To serve, drizzle about 1 tbsp (15 mL) reduced sauce over tomatoes, saving rest for another use. Sprinkle with pepper and sumac. Garnish with parsley.
Serve with charred bread.

• preparation

1. Remove the feta from the brine and rinse very well in cold water. Dab dry with a paper towel.
Break up the block of feta and place in a food processor. Add cream cheese and sour cream, 2 tbsp (30 mL) oil, lemon juice and zest in bowl of a food processor. Process until smooth, 1 to 2 minutes. Spread onto a large plate. Refrigerate at least 30 minutes or up to overnight.
2. Arrange rack in top third of oven. Preheat oven to broil.
3. Combine honey, remaining 1 tbsp (15 mL) oil and garlic in a medium-size oven-proof skillet. Broil until garlic is golden-brown, about 2 minutes. Carefully remove from oven. Stir in paired with tangy, whipped feta.
tomatoes and salt. Broil, stirring halfway through, until tomatoes are blistered and charred, 10 to 12 minutes.
4. Using a slotted spoon, transfer tomatoes onto whipped feta. Place cooking liquid over medium-high heat. Reduce until thick enough to coat back of spoon, 3 to 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
5. Arrange bread in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Drizzle both sides with oil. Broil, watching closely, until golden-brown and slightly charred, 1 to 2 minutes per side. Let cool slightly, then tear in half.
6. To serve, drizzle about 1 tbsp (15 mL) reduced sauce over tomatoes, saving rest for another use. Sprinkle with pepper and sumac. Garnish with parsley.
Serve with charred bread.

Serves: 6

• Ingredients

3- 1-pound packages frozen puff pastry
Flour for rolling

For the mushrooms:
2 large Portobello mushrooms
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
1/2 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
salt and pepper

For the onions:
3 tablespoons butter
3 medium onions, thinly sliced
1/2 cup red wine
salt and pepper

For the spinach and cheese:
1 cup cooked chopped spinach
6 ounces blue cheese
For the beef:
6- 5 to 6 ounce center-cut beef tenderloins
salt and pepper
1/2 cup olive oil

• preparation

Prepare the pastry and fillings:
The frozen puff pastry usually comes in sheets.
Two in each 1-pound package. Thaw pastry. Unwrap each sheet. Sit a 10-inch round cake pan on pastry.
With a sharp knife, cut out pastry sheets into 10-inch rounds. Lightly score a 4 by 3-inch rectangle in the center of each pastry round. Do not cut through the pastry.
Extend the lines of the rectangle and cut out the corners as shown in sketch.
Use scraps to cut out 12 leaves or other shapes to use as decoration. Layer the pastry rounds between sheets of wax paper.
For the mushrooms:
Slice the portobello into strips. Heat a heavy skillet over high heat. Add oil, garlic, mushrooms, thyme and rosemary.
Stir until mushrooms are brown. Season with salt and pepper. Transfer to a bowl.
For the onions:
Melt butter in a heavy skillet. Add onion and cook over low heat until onion are caramelized, stirring occasionally. Add Sherry wine and cook until pan is dry. Season with salt and pepper.
Set aside to cool.
For the fillets:
Heat a heavy skillet over high heat. Add oil and sear fillets 3 minutes on each side.
Season with salt and pepper. Transfer fillets to a plate. Refrigerate until ready to use.
For the sauce:
Pour 1 cup red wine in skillet. Cook for 5 minutes. Stir a package of brown sauce mix in cold water. Pour in skillet with wine. Whisk until thickened. Set sauce aside.
Assemble the wellingtons:
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Line the prepared pastries on a work surface.
Spread half of the well drained spinach over center of pastries. Divide blue cheese and well drained onions into six equal portions and spread over spinach.
Top with fillet, mushrooms and remaining spinach. Fold each side panel onto top to seal the content of pastry.
Turn the packages and arrange on a baking sheet seam side down. Decorate with pastry cut outs Brush pastries with a beaten egg.
Bake in for about 20 minutes or until the internal temperature is at 110 degrees. Be sure that the tip of the thermometer is inserted in the center of the package.
Set cooked wellingtons aside no longer than 10 minutes. The sealed fillets continue to cook out of the oven.
Cut each wellington in half. Arrange on warm plates and serve immediately.

• preparation

Prepare the pastry and fillings:
The frozen puff pastry usually comes in sheets.
Two in each 1-pound package. Thaw pastry. Unwrap each sheet. Sit a 10-inch round cake pan on pastry.
With a sharp knife, cut out pastry sheets into 10-inch rounds. Lightly score a 4 by 3-inch rectangle in the center of each pastry round. Do not cut through the pastry.
Extend the lines of the rectangle and cut out the corners as shown in sketch.
Use scraps to cut out 12 leaves or other shapes to use as decoration. Layer the pastry rounds between sheets of wax paper.
For the mushrooms:
Slice the portobello into strips. Heat a heavy skillet over high heat. Add oil, garlic, mushrooms, thyme and rosemary.
Stir until mushrooms are brown. Season with salt and pepper. Transfer to a bowl.
For the onions:
Melt butter in a heavy skillet. Add onion and cook over low heat until onion are caramelized, stirring occasionally. Add Sherry wine and cook until pan is dry. Season with salt and pepper.
Set aside to cool.
For the fillets:
Heat a heavy skillet over high heat. Add oil and sear fillets 3 minutes on each side.
Season with salt and pepper. Transfer fillets to a plate. Refrigerate until ready to use.
For the sauce:
Pour 1 cup red wine in skillet. Cook for 5 minutes. Stir a package of brown sauce mix in cold water. Pour in skillet with wine. Whisk until thickened. Set sauce aside.
Assemble the wellingtons:
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Line the prepared pastries on a work surface.
Spread half of the well drained spinach over center of pastries. Divide blue cheese and well drained onions into six equal portions and spread over spinach.
Top with fillet, mushrooms and remaining spinach. Fold each side panel onto top to seal the content of pastry.
Turn the packages and arrange on a baking sheet seam side down. Decorate with pastry cut outs Brush pastries with a beaten egg.
Bake in for about 20 minutes or until the internal temperature is at 110 degrees. Be sure that the tip of the thermometer is inserted in the center of the package.
Set cooked wellingtons aside no longer than 10 minutes. The sealed fillets continue to cook out of the oven.
Cut each wellington in half. Arrange on warm plates and serve immediately.

Serves: 12

• Ingredients

Crust:
1 cup wafer crumbs
1/2 cup pecans, chopped
1/4 cup sugar
1/4 cup butter, melted

Filling:
3 8-ounces cream cheese, softened
3/4 cup sugar
3 eggs
1/3 cup Irish cream
3 ounces white chocolate, melted

Topping:
whipped cream
chocolate shavings

• preparation

Preheat oven at 325 degrees.
CRUST:
Combine wafer crumbs, pecans, sugar, and butter. Press mixture onto bottom of 2 inch by 9 inch springform pan. Chill.
FILLING:
In an electric mixer, beat cheese and sugar until smooth. Beat in eggs one at the time, until just blended. Beat in liqueur and white chocolate. Pour into pan. Bake 50 min. or until center is just set. Remove from oven and run knife around sides of pan to prevent cracking. Cool.
TOPPING:
Top cheesecake with whipped cream and chocolate shavings if desired.

• preparation

Preheat oven at 325 degrees.
CRUST:
Combine wafer crumbs, pecans, sugar, and butter. Press mixture onto bottom of 2 inch by 9 inch springform pan. Chill.
FILLING:
In an electric mixer, beat cheese and sugar until smooth. Beat in eggs one at the time, until just blended. Beat in liqueur and white chocolate. Pour into pan. Bake 50 min. or until center is just set. Remove from oven and run knife around sides of pan to prevent cracking. Cool.
TOPPING:
Top cheesecake with whipped cream and chocolate shavings if desired.

A fudgy brownie, layered with mint butter cream and drizzled with chocolate.

• Ingredients

Brownies Ingredients:
1/2 cup butter
2 (1-ounce) squares unsweetened baking chocolate
1 cup sugar
3/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 eggs

Filling Ingredients:
2 cups powdered sugar
1 (3-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
3 tablespoons butter, softened
1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
5 drops green food color
2 drops yellow food color

Drizzle Ingredients:
1 (1-ounce) square unsweetened baking chocolate, melted

• preparation

Heat oven to 350°F. Melt 1/2 cup butter and 2 squares chocolate in 2-quart saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly, until smooth (4 to 6 minutes). Stir in all remaining brownie ingredients until well mixed. Spread into greased 8-inch square baking pan.
Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until brownie just begins to pull away from sides of pan. Cool completely.
Combine all filling ingredients except chocolate in small bowl. Beat at medium speed until creamy. Spread over cooled bars.
Drizzle with melted chocolate. Cool completely; cut into bars. Cover; store refrigerated.

• preparation

Heat oven to 350°F. Melt 1/2 cup butter and 2 squares chocolate in 2-quart saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly, until smooth (4 to 6 minutes). Stir in all remaining brownie ingredients until well mixed. Spread into greased 8-inch square baking pan.
Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until brownie just begins to pull away from sides of pan. Cool completely.
Combine all filling ingredients except chocolate in small bowl. Beat at medium speed until creamy. Spread over cooled bars.
Drizzle with melted chocolate. Cool completely; cut into bars. Cover; store refrigerated.

Serves: 6

• Ingredients

4 celery hearts
1 small onion
2 cloves of garlic
a few sprigs of fresh thyme
3 slices smoked pancetta or bacon
extra virgin olive oil
½ teaspoon fennel seeds
1 x 400 g can of chopped tomatoes
75 g Parmesan cheese

• preparation

Preheat the oven to 180ºC/gas 4.
Trim the bases of the celery hearts and peel the outer stalks, keeping each heart in 1 piece. Trim the ends so the hearts are 12 to 15cm long. Cut the celery lengthways into quarters, then across in half.
Peel and slice the onion lengthways, and peel and finely chop the garlic. Pick and finely chop the thyme leaves, then chop the pancetta or bacon
Place a saucepan over a medium heat and add a splash of oil. Add the onion and pancetta or bacon, and cook for a few minutes until the onion is soft. Add the celery and cook with the lid on until the celery is soft.
Heat another pan and add a splash of oil. Add the garlic and fennel seeds, then, when the garlic’s golden brown, tip in the tomatoes. Fill the tomato tin with water and add that, along with a good pinch of sea salt and black pepper. Cook the sauce over a medium heat for half an hour or so, until reduced and thick.
When the celery’s soft, remove the lid and let the ingredients brown slightly on the bottom of the pan.
Lightly oil a shallow 20cm x 20cm baking dish and spoon a little tomato sauce in the bottom. Spread it out and top with about a third of the celery pieces. Cover with more tomato sauce, some thyme leaves and a good grating of Parmesan. Keep layering, then finish with the last of the tomato sauce, lots of cheese and a sprinkle of sea salt and black pepper.
Bake for about 20 minutes, or until heated through and crisp on top.

• preparation

Preheat the oven to 180ºC/gas 4.
Trim the bases of the celery hearts and peel the outer stalks, keeping each heart in 1 piece. Trim the ends so the hearts are 12 to 15cm long. Cut the celery lengthways into quarters, then across in half.
Peel and slice the onion lengthways, and peel and finely chop the garlic. Pick and finely chop the thyme leaves, then chop the pancetta or bacon
Place a saucepan over a medium heat and add a splash of oil. Add the onion and pancetta or bacon, and cook for a few minutes until the onion is soft. Add the celery and cook with the lid on until the celery is soft.
Heat another pan and add a splash of oil. Add the garlic and fennel seeds, then, when the garlic’s golden brown, tip in the tomatoes. Fill the tomato tin with water and add that, along with a good pinch of sea salt and black pepper. Cook the sauce over a medium heat for half an hour or so, until reduced and thick.
When the celery’s soft, remove the lid and let the ingredients brown slightly on the bottom of the pan.
Lightly oil a shallow 20cm x 20cm baking dish and spoon a little tomato sauce in the bottom. Spread it out and top with about a third of the celery pieces. Cover with more tomato sauce, some thyme leaves and a good grating of Parmesan. Keep layering, then finish with the last of the tomato sauce, lots of cheese and a sprinkle of sea salt and black pepper.
Bake for about 20 minutes, or until heated through and crisp on top.

Serves: 10

• Ingredients

2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 medium celery ribs with leaves, chopped
2 medium red bell peppers, cored, seeded, and chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 lb sweet or hot Italian sausage, casings removed
1 tsp. dried basil
1 tsp. dried oregano
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. crushed hot red pepper
12 ounces day-old, crusty Italian bread, cut into 1-inch cubes (about 7 cups)
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (about 4 ounces)
8 tbsp unsalted butter(1 stick), melted
1/2 cup dry white wine
1 1/2 cups Homemade Turkey Stock or canned reduced-sodium chicken broth, or as needed

• preparation

1. In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, bell peppers, and garlic. Cook, stirring often, until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the sausage and cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until it loses its pink color, 8 to 10 minutes. Stir in the basil, oregano, salt, and crushed red pepper. Transfer to a large bowl.
2. Add the bread and cheese and mix well. Stir in the butter, wine, and enough of the stock to moisten the dressing, about 1 cup. Use to stuff the turkey, or place in a buttered baking dish, drizzle with an additional ½ cup stock, cover, and bake as a side dish.

• preparation

1. In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, bell peppers, and garlic. Cook, stirring often, until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the sausage and cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until it loses its pink color, 8 to 10 minutes. Stir in the basil, oregano, salt, and crushed red pepper. Transfer to a large bowl.
2. Add the bread and cheese and mix well. Stir in the butter, wine, and enough of the stock to moisten the dressing, about 1 cup. Use to stuff the turkey, or place in a buttered baking dish, drizzle with an additional ½ cup stock, cover, and bake as a side dish.

Serves: 4

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.

• 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.

Serves: 8

Käsknöpfle,
also known as Kaese Spaetzle

• Ingredients

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon pepper
3 eggs
1 cup milk
3 tablespoons butter
1 medium onion, sliced
1 1/2 cups shredded Emmentaler cheese

• preparation

Sift together flour, nutmeg, salt and pepper. Beat eggs in a medium bowl. Alternately mix in milk and the flour mixture until smooth. Let stand for 30 minutes.

Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Press batter through a spaetzle press into the water. You may also use a potato ricer, colander, or a cheese grater. When the spaetzle rise to the top of the water, remove to a bowl with a slotted spoon. Mix in 1 cup of the cheese.

Melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion, and cook until golden. Stir in spaetzle and remaining cheese until well blended. Remove from heat, and serve immediately.

• preparation

Sift together flour, nutmeg, salt and pepper. Beat eggs in a medium bowl. Alternately mix in milk and the flour mixture until smooth. Let stand for 30 minutes.

Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Press batter through a spaetzle press into the water. You may also use a potato ricer, colander, or a cheese grater. When the spaetzle rise to the top of the water, remove to a bowl with a slotted spoon. Mix in 1 cup of the cheese.

Melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion, and cook until golden. Stir in spaetzle and remaining cheese until well blended. Remove from heat, and serve immediately.

Serves: 4

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!

• 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!

Serves: 10

• 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.

• 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.

Serves: 8

• Ingredients

Crust:
1 1/4 cups sugar cookie crumbs
1/4 cup sesame seeds, toasted
2 teaspoons sugar
1/4 cup butter, melted

Filling:
5 egg yolks
1/2 cup sugar
1/3 cup lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon peel, grated
6 ounces cream cheese, soft
1/4 cup sour cream
1/4 cup sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon unflavored gelatin
1/4 cup water

• preparation

Crust:
Mix ingredients for crust. Press on bottom and sides of a greased 8-inch spring form mold.
Filling:
Combine egg yolks, sugar, and lemon juice in a double boiler. Whisk until hot and thick. Add lemon peel.
Mix the remaining ingredients, and stir in egg yolk mixture. Dissolve gelatin in cold water. Let stand for 5 minutes.
Melt over low heat and stir in cream cheese mixture. Spread in mold. Refrigerate to set.

• preparation

Crust:
Mix ingredients for crust. Press on bottom and sides of a greased 8-inch spring form mold.
Filling:
Combine egg yolks, sugar, and lemon juice in a double boiler. Whisk until hot and thick. Add lemon peel.
Mix the remaining ingredients, and stir in egg yolk mixture. Dissolve gelatin in cold water. Let stand for 5 minutes.
Melt over low heat and stir in cream cheese mixture. Spread in mold. Refrigerate to set.

Serves: 10

• Ingredients

8 ounces soft cream cheese
1/3 cup sugar
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1 egg
1/4 cup sugar
2 teaspoons flour
3/4 cup light corn syrup
1/3 cup lemon juice
2 teaspoons melted margarine
1 teaspoon grated lemon peel
2 eggs, beaten
1 10-inch pie crust

• preparation

Preheat oven at 375 degrees.
Line the pie crust in a 10-inch tart pan with removable bottom. Press in bottom and sides of pan.
Combine cream cheese and sugar. Add lemon juice and egg. Beat until smooth. Spread over crust.
Combine sugar, flour, corn syrup, lemon juice, margarine, and lemon peel. Mix well. Add beaten eggs.
Carefully pour over cream cheese mixture. Bake 40 50 minutes or until crust is golden brown. Cool completely.
Remove from pan and refrigerate.

• preparation

Preheat oven at 375 degrees.
Line the pie crust in a 10-inch tart pan with removable bottom. Press in bottom and sides of pan.
Combine cream cheese and sugar. Add lemon juice and egg. Beat until smooth. Spread over crust.
Combine sugar, flour, corn syrup, lemon juice, margarine, and lemon peel. Mix well. Add beaten eggs.
Carefully pour over cream cheese mixture. Bake 40 50 minutes or until crust is golden brown. Cool completely.
Remove from pan and refrigerate.

Serves: 4

• Ingredients

1 cup lentils
1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small onion, chopped
1 small carrot, chopped
1 celery stalk, chopped
1 garlic clove, minced
2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme
1/2 teaspoons salt
2 tablespoons tomato paste
4 ounces Button Mushrooms, wiped clean and sliced
2 large eggs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup bread crumbs
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/4 cup finely chopped walnuts
1 cup Marinara sauce

• preparation

Combine the lentils and 2 quarts water in a medium stockpot and bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce the heat to low and simmer until the lentils are soft about 20 minutes. Drain the lentils and allow to cool.

Add 1/4 cup of the olive oil to a large frying pan and sauté the onions, carrots, celery, garlic, thyme, and salt over medium-high heat, stirring frequently, for about 10 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and just beginning to brown. Add the tomato paste and continue to cook, stirring constantly, for 3 minutes. Add the mushrooms and cook, stirring frequently, for 10 more minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed. Transfer the mixture to a large bowl and allow to cool to room temperature. When cool, add the lentils to the vegetable mixture.

Add the eggs, Parmesan, bread crumbs, parsley, and walnuts to the cooled vegetable mixture and mix by hand until thoroughly incorporated. Place in the refrigerator for 25 minutes.

Preheat the oven to 400°F.

Drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil into a 9×13-inch baking dish and use your hand to evenly coat the entire surface. Set aside.

Shape the mixture into mini burgers (about 1 1/2 inches), making sure to pack the vegetable mixture firmly. Place in the prepared baking dish, allowing 1/4-inch of space between the burgers.

Roast for 30 minutes, or until the mini burgers are firm and cooked through.
serve with marinara sauce.

• preparation

Combine the lentils and 2 quarts water in a medium stockpot and bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce the heat to low and simmer until the lentils are soft about 20 minutes. Drain the lentils and allow to cool.

Add 1/4 cup of the olive oil to a large frying pan and sauté the onions, carrots, celery, garlic, thyme, and salt over medium-high heat, stirring frequently, for about 10 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and just beginning to brown. Add the tomato paste and continue to cook, stirring constantly, for 3 minutes. Add the mushrooms and cook, stirring frequently, for 10 more minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed. Transfer the mixture to a large bowl and allow to cool to room temperature. When cool, add the lentils to the vegetable mixture.

Add the eggs, Parmesan, bread crumbs, parsley, and walnuts to the cooled vegetable mixture and mix by hand until thoroughly incorporated. Place in the refrigerator for 25 minutes.

Preheat the oven to 400°F.

Drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil into a 9×13-inch baking dish and use your hand to evenly coat the entire surface. Set aside.

Shape the mixture into mini burgers (about 1 1/2 inches), making sure to pack the vegetable mixture firmly. Place in the prepared baking dish, allowing 1/4-inch of space between the burgers.

Roast for 30 minutes, or until the mini burgers are firm and cooked through.
serve with marinara sauce.

Serves: 12

• Ingredients

12

Crust:
1 1/2 cups graham wafer crumbs
1/2 cup ground pecans
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/3 cup sifted cocoa powder
1/2 cup melted butter

Filling:
1/2 cup sugar
2 envelops unflavored gelatin
1/2 cup lime juice
1 tablespoon grated lime rind
1 can (14 ounce) coconut milk
3 eggs yolks
1/2 cup sugar
2 tablespoons white rum
1 pound cream cheese, softened
3 egg whites
1/2 cup sugar

Raspberry sauce:
2 cups fresh or frozen raspberries
1/3 cup sugar

• preparation

Crust:
In large bowl, combine Graham crumbs, pecans, sugar, cocoa. Stir in butter. Press mixture onto base of greased 10-inch spring-form cake pan, pressing mixture slightly up sides. Bake at 350 degrees for 12 minutes or until golden brown.
Filling:
In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup sugar and gelatin. Stir in lime juice and rind. Set aside to soften. In a medium saucepan, heat coconut milk. In a medium bowl, whisk egg yolks with 1/2 cup sugar until lemony. Whisk in the hot coconut milk. Return mixture to saucepan. Cook stirring constantly, over medium heat to the consistency of thin custard. Do not boil.
Stir in gelatin mixture with rum. Cool to room temperature. Beat cream cheese. Blend in coconut mixture. Cover and refrigerate for one hour or until barely set.
Beat egg whites to soft peaks. Add sugar, and beat until stiff. Gradually fold into the prepared mixture. Pour into crust. Refrigerate 2 hours.
Sauce:
Puree raspberries with sugar. Strain to a sieve. To serve: Loosen edges of tart. Remove side of pan.
Decorate with lime slices.

• preparation

Crust:
In large bowl, combine Graham crumbs, pecans, sugar, cocoa. Stir in butter. Press mixture onto base of greased 10-inch spring-form cake pan, pressing mixture slightly up sides. Bake at 350 degrees for 12 minutes or until golden brown.
Filling:
In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup sugar and gelatin. Stir in lime juice and rind. Set aside to soften. In a medium saucepan, heat coconut milk. In a medium bowl, whisk egg yolks with 1/2 cup sugar until lemony. Whisk in the hot coconut milk. Return mixture to saucepan. Cook stirring constantly, over medium heat to the consistency of thin custard. Do not boil.
Stir in gelatin mixture with rum. Cool to room temperature. Beat cream cheese. Blend in coconut mixture. Cover and refrigerate for one hour or until barely set.
Beat egg whites to soft peaks. Add sugar, and beat until stiff. Gradually fold into the prepared mixture. Pour into crust. Refrigerate 2 hours.
Sauce:
Puree raspberries with sugar. Strain to a sieve. To serve: Loosen edges of tart. Remove side of pan.
Decorate with lime slices.

Serves: 8

• Ingredients

Crust:
1 cup Graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup sugar
1/4 cup butter, melted

Filling:
1 envelop unflavored gelatin
1/4 cup water, cold
4 egg yolks
3/4 cup water
3/4 cup sugar
1 teaspoon cornstarch
2 8-ounce cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup lime juice
1 teaspoon grated lime rind
1 cup whipping cream

• preparation

Preheat oven at 350 degrees.
CRUST:
Combine the crust ingredients. Press onto bottom of a 9-inch spring form pan. Bake for 10 minutes.
FILLING:
Dissolve gelatin in cold water. In a mixing bowl, combine egg yolks, water, sugar, and cornstarch. Beat over a double boiler until mixture thickens. Stir in the gelatin. Beat cream cheese in a mixer. Gradually add the gelatin mixture. Blend well. Mix in lime juice and rind. Whip the cream until firm. Fold in cheese mixture.
Pour into pan. Chill until firm. Garnish with whipped cream piped rosettes and lime slices.

• preparation

Preheat oven at 350 degrees.
CRUST:
Combine the crust ingredients. Press onto bottom of a 9-inch spring form pan. Bake for 10 minutes.
FILLING:
Dissolve gelatin in cold water. In a mixing bowl, combine egg yolks, water, sugar, and cornstarch. Beat over a double boiler until mixture thickens. Stir in the gelatin. Beat cream cheese in a mixer. Gradually add the gelatin mixture. Blend well. Mix in lime juice and rind. Whip the cream until firm. Fold in cheese mixture.
Pour into pan. Chill until firm. Garnish with whipped cream piped rosettes and lime slices.

Serves: 4

• Ingredients

1 cup chilled heavy whipping cream
1 tablespoon mascarpone cheese softened in 1 tablespoon of milk
2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon finely grated lime peel
2 teaspoon fresh lemon juice

fresh fruit: (blackberries, blueberries and raspberries strawberries)

• preparation

Combine cream, prepared mascarpone, sugar, lime peel and juice in a medium bowl. Using electric mixer, beat to soft peaks.
(Can be made 4 hours ahead. )

Arrange in individual dishes and top with cut fruit

• preparation

Combine cream, prepared mascarpone, sugar, lime peel and juice in a medium bowl. Using electric mixer, beat to soft peaks.
(Can be made 4 hours ahead. )

Arrange in individual dishes and top with cut fruit

Serves: 6

• 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.

• 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.

Serves: 4

• 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.

• 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.

Serves: 6

• Ingredients

1 tablespoon salt
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1 pound elbow macaroni or cavatelli
1 quart milk
4 ounces ( 8 tablespoons) (1 stick) unsalted butter, divided
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
12 ounces Gruyere or Emmenthal cheese, grated (4 cups)
8 ounces extra-sharp Cheddar, grated (2 cups)
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
3/4 pound fresh tomatoes (2 medium)
1 1/2 cups fresh white bread crumbs (5 slices, crusts removed)

• preparation

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
Drizzle oil into a large pot of boiling salted water. Add the macaroni and cook according to the directions on the package, 6 to 8 minutes. Drain well.
Meanwhile, heat the milk in a small saucepan to a boiling point . Melt 6 tablespoons of butter in a large (4-quart) pot and add the flour. Cook over low heat for 2 minutes, stirring with a whisk. While whisking, add the hot milk and cook for a minute or two more, until thickened and smooth. Off the heat, add the Gruyere or Emmenthal and Cheddar, Dijon mustard and pepper. Add the cooked macaroni and stir well. Pour into a 3-quart baking dish.

Slice the tomatoes and arrange on top. Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, combine them with the fresh bread crumbs, and sprinkle on the top. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the macaroni is browned on the top.

• preparation

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
Drizzle oil into a large pot of boiling salted water. Add the macaroni and cook according to the directions on the package, 6 to 8 minutes. Drain well.
Meanwhile, heat the milk in a small saucepan to a boiling point . Melt 6 tablespoons of butter in a large (4-quart) pot and add the flour. Cook over low heat for 2 minutes, stirring with a whisk. While whisking, add the hot milk and cook for a minute or two more, until thickened and smooth. Off the heat, add the Gruyere or Emmenthal and Cheddar, Dijon mustard and pepper. Add the cooked macaroni and stir well. Pour into a 3-quart baking dish.

Slice the tomatoes and arrange on top. Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, combine them with the fresh bread crumbs, and sprinkle on the top. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the macaroni is browned on the top.

Serves: 4

• Ingredients

2 pounds small zucchini, about 8 small
1 cup of spring water
1 teaspoon chicken base
2 tablespoons semolina or corm meal
1/2 cup milk
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
salt and pepper to taste
3/4 cup grated Emmenthal cheese

• preparation

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
Peel and slice zucchini. Put in a saucepan together with water and chicken base. Cover and boil until 3/4 of the moisture has evaporated about 20 minutes.
Using a wooden spoon, break zucchini into small pieces. Gradually stir in corn meal then add milk or cream.
Stir over medium heat until mixture is medium thick. Add more cornmeal if necessary. Transfer to a baking dish.
Sprinkle with grated cheese. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or is golden brown

• preparation

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
Peel and slice zucchini. Put in a saucepan together with water and chicken base. Cover and boil until 3/4 of the moisture has evaporated about 20 minutes.
Using a wooden spoon, break zucchini into small pieces. Gradually stir in corn meal then add milk or cream.
Stir over medium heat until mixture is medium thick. Add more cornmeal if necessary. Transfer to a baking dish.
Sprinkle with grated cheese. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or is golden brown

Serves: 6

• Ingredients

CRUST
2 packages (each 150 g) Swedish style gingersnap cookies
2 tsp (10 mL) granulated sugar
1/4 cup (60 mL) unsalted butter, melted, plus more for buttering pan
FILLING
1 cup (250 mL) peeled and diced ripe Ataulfo mango, approx. 2 medium mangoes (235 g each), at room temperature
3/4 cup (175 mL) granulated sugar
2 blocks (each 250 g) Original Philadelphia cream cheese, quartered, at room temperature
Seeds from 1/2 vanilla bean
3 large eggs, at room temperature

ASSEMBLY
1 1/4 cups (310 mL) whipping cream
1 tsp (5 mL) granulated sugar
Seeds from 1/2 vanilla bean
1 ripe Ataulfo mango, peeled, thinly sliced
1/4 cup (60 mL) flaked coconut, lightly toasted

• preparation

For the filling, boil a full kettle of water. Add mango
and sugar to a clean bowl of a food processor and whirl,
scraping down sides if needed, until completely smooth, about
1 minute. Add cream cheese and vanilla seeds (saving pod
for another use). Continue processing until mixture is smooth
and fully combined. Scrape down sides, then add eggs. Pulse a few
times just until combined (do not This silky-smooth cheesecake
is baked on a spicy gingersnap crust and topped with rich vanilla
whipped cream, perfectly ripe mango and toasted coconut.
For the best texture, bring you ingredients to room temperature,
and while this recipe calls for honey-sweet Ataulfo mangoes,
any variety will do, as long as they’re perfectly ripe.

Position racks in centre and bottom third of oven. Preheat to 325°F (163°C). Lightly butter base of an 8-inch (20-cm) round smooth-based springform pan.
Line bottom with parchment and set aside.
For the crust, whirl gingersnaps in bowl of a food processor until
fine crumbs form (you should have about 2 cups/500mL).
Add sugar and pulse to combine.
Add melted butter and pulse until mixture resembles wet sand.
Transfer to prepared pan. Using a flat measuring cup, very firmly press crumbs into the bottom and 2 inches (5 cm) up the sides of the
pan. Bake in centre of oven until set, about 15 minutes. Transfer to
a rack. Cool while you make filling.

• preparation

For the filling, boil a full kettle of water. Add mango
and sugar to a clean bowl of a food processor and whirl,
scraping down sides if needed, until completely smooth, about
1 minute. Add cream cheese and vanilla seeds (saving pod
for another use). Continue processing until mixture is smooth
and fully combined. Scrape down sides, then add eggs. Pulse a few
times just until combined (do not This silky-smooth cheesecake
is baked on a spicy gingersnap crust and topped with rich vanilla
whipped cream, perfectly ripe mango and toasted coconut.
For the best texture, bring you ingredients to room temperature,
and while this recipe calls for honey-sweet Ataulfo mangoes,
any variety will do, as long as they’re perfectly ripe.

Position racks in centre and bottom third of oven. Preheat to 325°F (163°C). Lightly butter base of an 8-inch (20-cm) round smooth-based springform pan.
Line bottom with parchment and set aside.
For the crust, whirl gingersnaps in bowl of a food processor until
fine crumbs form (you should have about 2 cups/500mL).
Add sugar and pulse to combine.
Add melted butter and pulse until mixture resembles wet sand.
Transfer to prepared pan. Using a flat measuring cup, very firmly press crumbs into the bottom and 2 inches (5 cm) up the sides of the
pan. Bake in centre of oven until set, about 15 minutes. Transfer to
a rack. Cool while you make filling.

Serves: 8

You can make crumb crust with gingersnaps instead of graham crackers.
Cheesecake keeps, covered and chilled 3 to 4 days.

• Ingredients

Crumb-crust recipe:
1 1/2 cups (5 oz) finely ground graham crackers or cookies such as chocolate or vanilla wafers or gingersnaps
5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1/3 cup sugar
1/8 teaspoon salt

1/2 made with finely ground gingersnaps
3 (8-ounces) packages cream cheese, softened
1 3/4 cups sugar
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
5 large eggs
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
2 large egg yolks
3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon ground ginger
1/8 teaspoon ground allspice
1/8 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
15-ounce can solid-pack pumpkin

• preparation

For Crumb crust recipe:
Stir together crust ingredients and press onto bottom and 1 inch up side of a buttered 9-inch (24-centimeter) springform pan. Fill right away or chill up to 2 hours.

Preheat oven to 350°F.
Beat together cream cheese, sugar, and flour with an electric mixer until smooth and add whole eggs, 1 at a time, then vanilla, beating on low speed until each ingredient is incorporated and scraping down bowl between additions. Transfer 2 1/2 cups filling to another bowl and beat yolks, spices, and pumpkin into remaining filling until smooth.
Put springform pan with crust in a shallow baking pan. Pour half of pumpkin filling into crust, then half of plain. Repeat procedure with remaining fillings (springform pan will be completely full), drizzling the plain so that some of pumpkin filling is still visible. Gently swirl a small spoon once through batters in a figure-eight pattern without touching crust. Bake in baking pan (to catch drips) in middle of oven 12 minutes, or until puffed. Reduce temperature to 200°F and bake 30 minutes (do not open oven). Dome a piece of lightly oiled foil over cake and continue baking until mostly firm (center will still be slightly wobbly when pan is gently shaken), about 1 hour more.
Run a knife around top edge of cake to loosen and cool completely in springform pan on a rack. Chill, loosely covered, at least 6 hours. Remove side of pan and transfer cake to a plate. Bring to room temperature before serving.

• preparation

For Crumb crust recipe:
Stir together crust ingredients and press onto bottom and 1 inch up side of a buttered 9-inch (24-centimeter) springform pan. Fill right away or chill up to 2 hours.

Preheat oven to 350°F.
Beat together cream cheese, sugar, and flour with an electric mixer until smooth and add whole eggs, 1 at a time, then vanilla, beating on low speed until each ingredient is incorporated and scraping down bowl between additions. Transfer 2 1/2 cups filling to another bowl and beat yolks, spices, and pumpkin into remaining filling until smooth.
Put springform pan with crust in a shallow baking pan. Pour half of pumpkin filling into crust, then half of plain. Repeat procedure with remaining fillings (springform pan will be completely full), drizzling the plain so that some of pumpkin filling is still visible. Gently swirl a small spoon once through batters in a figure-eight pattern without touching crust. Bake in baking pan (to catch drips) in middle of oven 12 minutes, or until puffed. Reduce temperature to 200°F and bake 30 minutes (do not open oven). Dome a piece of lightly oiled foil over cake and continue baking until mostly firm (center will still be slightly wobbly when pan is gently shaken), about 1 hour more.
Run a knife around top edge of cake to loosen and cool completely in springform pan on a rack. Chill, loosely covered, at least 6 hours. Remove side of pan and transfer cake to a plate. Bring to room temperature before serving.

Serves: 4

• 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.

• 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.

Serves: 12

This fine dessert can be prepared a day ahead, or can be frozen in airtight container for up to 10 days.

• Ingredients

For crust:
1 cup sugar cookie crumbs (Chefdecuisine uses shortbread cookies)
2 tablespoons white sugar
2 tablespoons melted butter

For filling:
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 cup fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon unflavored gelatin
4 eggs, beaten
3 tablespoons grated lemon zest
1 pound Mascarpone cheese
2 cups whipping cream

For garnish:
fresh raspberries or strawberries
lemon zest
red raspberry and strawberry sauce

• preparation

Fit the bottom of a 9-inch spring form pan with a circle of parchment paper.
Combine cookie crumbs, sugar and butter in a bowl. Spread evenly into bottom of pan and refrigerate for about 15 minutes or until firm. To make cheese cake, combine sugar and cornstarch in a stainless steel saucepan.
Dissolve unflavored gelatin in 1/4 cup of the lemon juice. Whisk remaining lemon juice and beaten eggs in sugar and cornstarch mixture. Cook over medium heat, stirring until mixture thickens to a medium-thick consistency. Remove from heat.
Stir in gelatin and lemon zest. Transfer to a large bowl, and let cool at room temperature.
Whisk in Mascarpone until smooth. Beat whipping cream in a bowl until stiff. Fold mascarpone mixture into whipped cream.
Spoon cream mixture into prepared pan and smooth top with spatula. Seal top with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 4 hours.
Run a small sharp knife along the edge of the inside cake pan rim to loosen cake.
Remove sides of pan. Transfer dessert from metal base to a serving plate.
To serve, garnish with fresh berries, lemon zest and a red berry sauce.

• preparation

Fit the bottom of a 9-inch spring form pan with a circle of parchment paper.
Combine cookie crumbs, sugar and butter in a bowl. Spread evenly into bottom of pan and refrigerate for about 15 minutes or until firm. To make cheese cake, combine sugar and cornstarch in a stainless steel saucepan.
Dissolve unflavored gelatin in 1/4 cup of the lemon juice. Whisk remaining lemon juice and beaten eggs in sugar and cornstarch mixture. Cook over medium heat, stirring until mixture thickens to a medium-thick consistency. Remove from heat.
Stir in gelatin and lemon zest. Transfer to a large bowl, and let cool at room temperature.
Whisk in Mascarpone until smooth. Beat whipping cream in a bowl until stiff. Fold mascarpone mixture into whipped cream.
Spoon cream mixture into prepared pan and smooth top with spatula. Seal top with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 4 hours.
Run a small sharp knife along the edge of the inside cake pan rim to loosen cake.
Remove sides of pan. Transfer dessert from metal base to a serving plate.
To serve, garnish with fresh berries, lemon zest and a red berry sauce.

Serves: 8

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.

• 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.

Serves: 4

Elote, also known as Mexican street corn, is grilled corn on the cob slathered with an irresistibly salty-tangy mix of mayonnaise, sour cream, cotija cheese, lime juice, and chile powder. The addition of cilantro and a poblano chile turns them into another hand-held treat: pizza.

If you don't have a pizza stone, don't worry, you can still get a crisp crust. Preheat a 13- x 9-inch sheet pan (not a cookie sheet) in the oven. After it preheats, coat the pan evenly with cooking spray, then sprinkle it with cornmeal before adding the pizza dough.

• Ingredients

3 ears fresh corn, shucked
1 small poblano chile
1 pound fresh prepared pizza dough
All-purpose flour, for work surface
1 tablespoon cornmeal
2 tablespoons olive oil
8 ounces low-moisture part-skim mozzarella cheese, shredded (2 cups)
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon sour cream
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice (from 1 lime)
1 1/2 ounces Cotija cheese, crumbled (1/3 cup)
1/2 cup loosely packed fresh cilantro leaves
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
Lime wedges

• preparation

Preheat pizza stone, and grill corn:
Place pizza stone in oven. Preheat oven to 500°F. Heat a grill pan over high; coat with cooking spray. Add corn and poblano to pan. Cook, turning occasionally, until charred, 8 to 10 minutes. Remove from heat; cool 5 minutes. Cut kernels from corn cobs; discard cobs. Chop poblano, discarding stem and seeds.

Roll out pizza dough, top pizza, bake:
Roll dough out on a lightly floured surface into a 14-inch circle. Scatter cornmeal on preheated pizza stone. Transfer dough to stone. Prick dough liberally with a fork. Brush with oil. Top with mozzarella, leaving a 1-inch border. Top with corn and poblano; then sprinkle with salt and pepper. Bake at 500°F until cheese is bubbly and crust is golden, 10 to 12 minutes.

Make sour cream mixture:
Meanwhile, stir together sour cream and lime juice.

Drizzle sour cream mixture, and serve:
Remove pizza from oven. Drizzle evenly with sour cream mixture. Sprinkle with Cotija, cilantro, and paprika. Slice and serve with lime wedges.

• preparation

Preheat pizza stone, and grill corn:
Place pizza stone in oven. Preheat oven to 500°F. Heat a grill pan over high; coat with cooking spray. Add corn and poblano to pan. Cook, turning occasionally, until charred, 8 to 10 minutes. Remove from heat; cool 5 minutes. Cut kernels from corn cobs; discard cobs. Chop poblano, discarding stem and seeds.

Roll out pizza dough, top pizza, bake:
Roll dough out on a lightly floured surface into a 14-inch circle. Scatter cornmeal on preheated pizza stone. Transfer dough to stone. Prick dough liberally with a fork. Brush with oil. Top with mozzarella, leaving a 1-inch border. Top with corn and poblano; then sprinkle with salt and pepper. Bake at 500°F until cheese is bubbly and crust is golden, 10 to 12 minutes.

Make sour cream mixture:
Meanwhile, stir together sour cream and lime juice.

Drizzle sour cream mixture, and serve:
Remove pizza from oven. Drizzle evenly with sour cream mixture. Sprinkle with Cotija, cilantro, and paprika. Slice and serve with lime wedges.

Serves: 4

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.

• 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.

Serves: 4

• Ingredients

1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
4 scallions coarsely, chopped
Salt and ground pepper
10 ounces fresh baby spinach
Nonstick cooking spray
8 (6-inch) corn tortillas
1 can (15.5 ounces) black beans or pinto beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup prepared salsa (mild or medium)
8 ounces pepper Jack cheese, grated (about 2 cups)

• preparation

1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees (375 degrees
In a food processor, combine cilantro, scallions, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper with spinach ; pulse until coarsely chopped.
2. Coat an 8-inch square baking dish with cooking spray. Lay 4 tortillas in bottom of dish (they will overlap slightly). Layer with half of beans, salsa, spinach mixture, and cheese; repeat with remaining ingredients, ending with cheese and pressing in gently.
3. Cover dish with foil; place on a rimmed baking sheet. Bake until bubbling, 25 to 30 minutes; remove foil, and continue baking until golden, 15 to 20 minutes more. Cool 5 to 10 minutes before serving.

• preparation

1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees (375 degrees
In a food processor, combine cilantro, scallions, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper with spinach ; pulse until coarsely chopped.
2. Coat an 8-inch square baking dish with cooking spray. Lay 4 tortillas in bottom of dish (they will overlap slightly). Layer with half of beans, salsa, spinach mixture, and cheese; repeat with remaining ingredients, ending with cheese and pressing in gently.
3. Cover dish with foil; place on a rimmed baking sheet. Bake until bubbling, 25 to 30 minutes; remove foil, and continue baking until golden, 15 to 20 minutes more. Cool 5 to 10 minutes before serving.

Serves: 6

• 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.

• 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.

Serves: 16

For 1 10-inch cake.

This recipe for New York-style cheesecake, adapted from "Martha Stewart's Baking Handbook," makes a smooth and creamy dessert that everyone will love.

• Ingredients

6 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature, plus more for pans
One 9-ounce package chocolate wafer cookies, finely crushed (about 2 cups)
2 ¼ cups sugar
3 tablespoons sugar
3 pounds (six 8-ounce packages) cream cheese, room temperature
½ cup all-purpose flour
1 cup sour cream, room temperature
1 ½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract
5 large eggs
4 blood oranges
2 tablespoons orange liqueur

• preparation

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Butter the sides of a 10-inch springform pan. Wrap exterior of pan (including base) in a double layer of foil. Melt 6 tablespoons butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Place crushed wafer cookies and 3 tablespoons sugar in a large bowl; stir until well combined. Pour melted butter over cookie mixture and mix until evenly moistened. Press mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.

Place pan on a baking sheet. Bake until crust is set, 10 to 12 minutes. Transfer pan to a wire rack to cool completely.

In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the cream cheese on medium speed until fluffy, about 3 minutes, scraping down sides as needed. In a large bowl, whisk together remaining 2 1/4 cups sugar and flour. With mixer on low speed, gradually add sugar mixture to cream cheese; mix until smooth. Add sour cream and vanilla; mix until smooth. Add eggs, one at a time, beating until just combined; do not overmix.

Pour cream cheese filling into prepared pan. Set pan inside a large, shallow roasting pan. Carefully ladle boiling water into roasting pan to reach halfway up sides of springform pan. Bake 45 minutes; reduce oven temperature to 325 degrees. Continue baking until cake is set but still slightly wobbly in the center, about 30 minutes more. Turn off oven; leave cake in oven with door slightly ajar, 1 hour. Transfer pan to a wire rack; let cake cool completely. Refrigerate, uncovered, at least 6 hours or overnight. Before unmolding, run a knife around the edge of the cake.

Slice the top and bottom of 1 orange with a paring knife. Set one of the flat sides on your work surface. From top to bottom, following the curve of the fruit, cut away peel and white pith. Trim off any remaining pith. Holding the orange over a bowl, cut along both sides of each segment, staying close to the membrane, to release. Repeat with remaining oranges. Pour in liqueur and toss to combine. Serve over cheesecake.

• preparation

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Butter the sides of a 10-inch springform pan. Wrap exterior of pan (including base) in a double layer of foil. Melt 6 tablespoons butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Place crushed wafer cookies and 3 tablespoons sugar in a large bowl; stir until well combined. Pour melted butter over cookie mixture and mix until evenly moistened. Press mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.

Place pan on a baking sheet. Bake until crust is set, 10 to 12 minutes. Transfer pan to a wire rack to cool completely.

In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the cream cheese on medium speed until fluffy, about 3 minutes, scraping down sides as needed. In a large bowl, whisk together remaining 2 1/4 cups sugar and flour. With mixer on low speed, gradually add sugar mixture to cream cheese; mix until smooth. Add sour cream and vanilla; mix until smooth. Add eggs, one at a time, beating until just combined; do not overmix.

Pour cream cheese filling into prepared pan. Set pan inside a large, shallow roasting pan. Carefully ladle boiling water into roasting pan to reach halfway up sides of springform pan. Bake 45 minutes; reduce oven temperature to 325 degrees. Continue baking until cake is set but still slightly wobbly in the center, about 30 minutes more. Turn off oven; leave cake in oven with door slightly ajar, 1 hour. Transfer pan to a wire rack; let cake cool completely. Refrigerate, uncovered, at least 6 hours or overnight. Before unmolding, run a knife around the edge of the cake.

Slice the top and bottom of 1 orange with a paring knife. Set one of the flat sides on your work surface. From top to bottom, following the curve of the fruit, cut away peel and white pith. Trim off any remaining pith. Holding the orange over a bowl, cut along both sides of each segment, staying close to the membrane, to release. Repeat with remaining oranges. Pour in liqueur and toss to combine. Serve over cheesecake.

Serves: 8

you can make your own crust using chocolate wafer cookies or graham cookies and melted butter, instead of buying a ready made crust.

• Ingredients

2/3 cup Nutella
8 oz Cream Cheese at room temp
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 8 oz container non-dairy whipped topping (defrosted)
1 Oreo Cookie Pie Crust
1 bar chocolate (optional)

• preparation

In a large bowl, mix Nutella and cream cheese together until well blended and smooth. Add vanilla extract. Fold in whipped topping until no white streaks are left. Pour into Oreo Pie crust. Refrigerate or freeze at least 2 hours to overnight.
Remove cheesecake from the fridge, slice and serve immediately. If removing from the freezer, allow the cheesecake to sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before slicing & serving.
Optional: Shave chocolate with veggie peeler on top of pie for garnish.

• preparation

In a large bowl, mix Nutella and cream cheese together until well blended and smooth. Add vanilla extract. Fold in whipped topping until no white streaks are left. Pour into Oreo Pie crust. Refrigerate or freeze at least 2 hours to overnight.
Remove cheesecake from the fridge, slice and serve immediately. If removing from the freezer, allow the cheesecake to sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before slicing & serving.
Optional: Shave chocolate with veggie peeler on top of pie for garnish.

Serves: 6

• Ingredients

8 large eggs
1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan
3 large fresh basil leaves, torn into pieces
3 large fresh sage leaves, minced
1 tsp. minced fresh rosemary
1/4 tsp. kosher salt
1/8 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
3 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
1 cup thinly sliced onion
1 cup diced Fontina cheese

• preparation

Preheat oven to 400°. Whisk first 7 ingredients in a medium bowl; set aside. Heat oil in a medium ovenproof nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion; sauté until soft, about 6 minutes. Reduce heat to low. Stir in egg mixture. Spoon diced cheese evenly over.
Cook until frittata begins to set, about 2 minutes. Place in oven; bake until just set, 7-9 minutes. Slide the frittata onto a platter. Cut into wedges; serve hot or at room temperature.

• preparation

Preheat oven to 400°. Whisk first 7 ingredients in a medium bowl; set aside. Heat oil in a medium ovenproof nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion; sauté until soft, about 6 minutes. Reduce heat to low. Stir in egg mixture. Spoon diced cheese evenly over.
Cook until frittata begins to set, about 2 minutes. Place in oven; bake until just set, 7-9 minutes. Slide the frittata onto a platter. Cut into wedges; serve hot or at room temperature.

Serves: 8

• Ingredients

For dough:
4 cups flour
1/4 cup sugar
3/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon instant dry yeast
1/2 cup milk
1/2 cup water
1/4 cup butter
1 egg

For filling:
1 cup finely chopped onion
1/4 cup butter
1 teaspoon grated parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon sesame seeds
1 teaspoon garlic salt
1 teaspoon paprika

• preparation

Reserve 1 cup of flour. Mix remaining flour, sugar, salt, and yeast in a large bowl. Heat milk, water and butter until very warm (125 F/50 C).
Stir warm liquid into dry ingredients. Beat in egg. Mix in enough of the reserved flour to make a soft dough that does not stick to bowl. Turn out onto floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, about 5 minutes. Cover; let rest 10 minutes.
Meanwhile, sauté onion in butter. Remove from heat and stir in remaining filling ingredients; set aside.
Roll dough into 18-by-12-inch rectangle. Cut evenly into three lengthwise strips 18 x 4-inch.
Evenly spread filling along center of strips. Fold each strip lengthwise and pinch edges together along 18-inch side to enclose filling. Braid strips together. Pinch ends to seal and tuck ends under loaf. Grease a baking sheet.
Place braid on sheet. Cover. Let rise in warm draft-free place until doubled in size, about 40 minutes.
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Brush top with beaten egg white and sprinkle with more sesame seed, if desired. Bake 30 to 35 minutes or until done. Remove to wire rack to cool.

• preparation

Reserve 1 cup of flour. Mix remaining flour, sugar, salt, and yeast in a large bowl. Heat milk, water and butter until very warm (125 F/50 C).
Stir warm liquid into dry ingredients. Beat in egg. Mix in enough of the reserved flour to make a soft dough that does not stick to bowl. Turn out onto floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, about 5 minutes. Cover; let rest 10 minutes.
Meanwhile, sauté onion in butter. Remove from heat and stir in remaining filling ingredients; set aside.
Roll dough into 18-by-12-inch rectangle. Cut evenly into three lengthwise strips 18 x 4-inch.
Evenly spread filling along center of strips. Fold each strip lengthwise and pinch edges together along 18-inch side to enclose filling. Braid strips together. Pinch ends to seal and tuck ends under loaf. Grease a baking sheet.
Place braid on sheet. Cover. Let rise in warm draft-free place until doubled in size, about 40 minutes.
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Brush top with beaten egg white and sprinkle with more sesame seed, if desired. Bake 30 to 35 minutes or until done. Remove to wire rack to cool.

Serves: 6

• Ingredients

2 pounds yellow onions, peeled
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/2 teaspoon ground whole cloves
1/2 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
fine sea salt to taste
2 large egg yolks
1/4 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

• preparation

Slice the onions in half, lengthwise. Place, cut side down, on a cutting board and slice crosswise into very thin slices.
In large non-stick skillet, combine butter, cloves, onions, thyme and salt. Cover and cook over low heat until onions are very soft, about 10 minutes. Taste and adjust seasonings.
Transfer onion mixture to a gratin dish and smooth it. The recipe can be prepared several hours up to this point. Cover and store at room temperature.
Preheat the broiler. In a small bowl, combine egg yolks and cream and whisk well. Stir in the cheese.
Pour the mixture over the onions in the baking dish. Place dish under broiler about 2 inches from the heat.
Broil until the top is sizzling and golden. Serve immediately as a vegetable course or as an accompaniment to meat dishes.

• preparation

Slice the onions in half, lengthwise. Place, cut side down, on a cutting board and slice crosswise into very thin slices.
In large non-stick skillet, combine butter, cloves, onions, thyme and salt. Cover and cook over low heat until onions are very soft, about 10 minutes. Taste and adjust seasonings.
Transfer onion mixture to a gratin dish and smooth it. The recipe can be prepared several hours up to this point. Cover and store at room temperature.
Preheat the broiler. In a small bowl, combine egg yolks and cream and whisk well. Stir in the cheese.
Pour the mixture over the onions in the baking dish. Place dish under broiler about 2 inches from the heat.
Broil until the top is sizzling and golden. Serve immediately as a vegetable course or as an accompaniment to meat dishes.

Serves: 4

Little ears. That’s the literal translation of orecchiette. Orecchiette pasta was invented as a way to use every last bit of pasta dough.

Finely grated dried shiitake adds a big umami boost to this simple pasta.

• Ingredients

4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
4 shallots, finely minced
4 cloves garlic, minced
salt and pepper, to season
150ml cream
400g dried orecchiette pasta
150g shiitake mushrooms
2 tbsp finely chopped chives
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
Dried shiitake mushrooms

• preparation

1. Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan over a medium heat and cook the shallots and garlic until fragrant. Add the mushrooms. Season well with salt and pepper and fry, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes until very well browned.
2. Add the cream and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. While the mushrooms are cooking, cook the pasta according to the packet instructions until just al dente. Drain well and add to the simmering mushrooms, tossing to coat in the sauce for just a minute or two.
4. Divide the pasta among warm serving plates and, using a rasp grater, scatter the dried shiitake mushrooms on top. Finish with the chives and parmesan cheese and serve.

• preparation

1. Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan over a medium heat and cook the shallots and garlic until fragrant. Add the mushrooms. Season well with salt and pepper and fry, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes until very well browned.
2. Add the cream and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. While the mushrooms are cooking, cook the pasta according to the packet instructions until just al dente. Drain well and add to the simmering mushrooms, tossing to coat in the sauce for just a minute or two.
4. Divide the pasta among warm serving plates and, using a rasp grater, scatter the dried shiitake mushrooms on top. Finish with the chives and parmesan cheese and serve.

Serves: 6

• 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.

• 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.