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Sweet Chili Salmon

Sweet Chili Salmon

This was easily one of our fave meal ever and will be a repeat at our house.

-4 salmon steaks or fillets
-1/4 c sweet chili sauce
-1 Tbsp soy sauce
-juice of 1 lime

Whisk together sweet chili sauce, soy sauce and lime juice. Pour over salmon fillets and marinate 30 minutes- 4 hours. Shake excess sauce off of fish. Bake at 400 for 12-15 minutes.

While salmon is baking, pour the marinade into a small pot, bring to a boil and simmer for at least 10 minutes until sauce reduces and thickens.

Top fish with sauce and scallions and/ or sesame seeds for garnish.

Kale Caesar Salad

Kale Caesar Salad

This is our current favorite salad. The flavors are simple enough to compliment most meals. I like to toss the dressing with the kale about 30 minutes prior to serving to allow the kale some time to break down. The kale is sturdy enough that you can dress the salad and it will still be good for most of the day.

-1 bunch kale, washed and torn into bite sized pieces
-1/2 cup shaved parmesan cheese

Dressing

-1/2 c olive oil
-1/2 c lemon juice
-2 cloves garlic
-1 Tbsp dijon mustard
-1 tsp sugar
-1 tsp salt
-1/2 tsp pepper
-1/4 tsp red pepper flakes

Combine dressing ingredients in a blender or food processor and mix well. Toss with kale and parmesan and serve.

Pumpkkin Mac and Cheese with Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Cauliflower

Pumpkin Mac and Cheese with Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Cauliflower

This dish screams fall to me. I love the way the flavors of nutmeg, sage, gouda, pumpkin and the vegetables all compliment each other.

-1 small head cauliflower, cut into bite sized pieces
-1 lb brussels sprouts, sliced in half and outer leaves removed
-2 Tbsp olive oil
-1 1/2 tsp salt, divided use
-1 box rotini pasta of choice (can use whole wheat, glutenfree, etc.), cooked according to package directions
-2 Tbsp butter
-2 Tbsp flour
-2 c milk
-8 oz smoked gouda, shredded, divided use

-8 oz sharp cheddar, shredded, divided use

-1 can (15 oz) pumpkin (NOT pumpkin pie filling)

-1/4 tsp pepper
-1/8 tsp nutmeg

-1 tsp ground sage


Preheat the oven to 400°. Toss cauliflower and Brussels sprouts with olive oil, and 1 tsp salt. Spread in an even layer on a greased baking sheet. Roast for 30 minutes, stirring halfway through.

While the vegetables roast, melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Sprinkle in the flour, cooking stirring constantly for 2-3 minutes, until the flour is golden. Add milk and broth and whisk, Whisk in milk and simmer 4 to 5 minutes, until it thickens slightly. Season with 1/2 teaspoon salt, pepper, nutmeg and sage. Stir in cheese, reserving 1/4 c of each cheese on the side. Continue to cook and stir until the cheese melts. Stir in pumpkin. Remove from heat, add the cooked rotini and mix well. Stir in the vegetables. Pour into a greased casserole, top with reserved cheese and bake at 350 for 20 minutes.

Chili Lime Melon

Chili Lime Melon

This is a sophisticated twist on a bowl of fruit. It is reminiscent of the flavors found in a South American fruit salad. The cilantro and chili powder add a depth of complexity making this a great side dish or salad for brunch, lunch or dinner. You could use any melon you desire here (honeydew, cantaloupe or watermelon) or a combination of all 3).

-1 melon (the size of a basketball), cut into bite sized chunks
-zest and juice of 1 lime
-1/4 tsp salt
-1/2 tsp chili powder
-1-2 Tbsp honey
-1/2 bunch cilantro, chopped

In a medium bowl, whisk together the lime zest and juice, salt, chili powder and honey. Toss with the melon. Sprinkle with cilantro and serve.

Rosemary Focaccia

Rosemary Focaccia

This is my favorite bread that I've ever made. The texture, moisture and flavor are perfectly balanced. You could dress it up a little by topping with grape tomatoes, olives, chopped garlic, fresh rosemary or grated cheese before baking.


-1 3/4 cups warm water
-1 Tbsp active dry yeast
-1 Tbsp sugar
-5 cups all-purpose flour, plus additional for kneading

-1 Tbsp dried rosemary
-1 Tbsp sea salt, plus more for sprinkling
-1 cup extra-virgin olive oil, divided


In a small bowl, stir the sugar into the water. Sprinkle the yeast over top of the water. Put the bowl in a warm place for 15 minutes.

In the bowl of a mixer fitted with a dough hook, combine the flour, rosemary, 1 tablespoon of salt, 1/2 cup olive oil and the yeast mixture on low speed. Once the dough has come together, continue to knead for 5 to 6 minutes on a medium speed until it becomes smooth and soft. Give it a sprinkle of flour if the dough is really sticky and tacky.

Transfer the dough to a clean, lightly floured surface, then knead it by hand 1 or 2 times. Again, give it another sprinkle of flour if the dough is really sticky and tacky.

Coat the inside of the mixer bowl lightly with olive oil and return the dough to the bowl. Cover it with a kitchen towel dampened with warm water and put it in a warm place until the dough has doubled in size, at least 1 hour.

Coat a 13x9 pan with the remaining 1/2 cup olive oil.  Put the dough into the pan and begin pressing it out to fit the size of the pan. Turn the dough over to coat the other side with the olive oil. Continue to stretch the dough to fit the pan. As you are doing so, spread your fingers out and make finger holes all the way through the dough.

Put the dough in the warm place until it has doubled in size, about 1 hour. While the dough is rising a second time, preheat the oven to 425 degrees F.

Sprinkle the top of the focaccia with sea salt. Bake the dough until the top of the loaf is golden brown, about 25 to 30 minutes. Remove the focaccia from the oven and let it cool before cutting and serving.

Egg Roll Bowl

Egg Roll Bowl

This is a quick, easy  yet delicious meal.

-1 lb lean ground pork
-2 Tbsp sesame oil
-1 Tbsp minced ginger
-4 cloves garlic, minced
-4 Tbsp soy sauce
-2 Tbsp honey or brown sugar
-1 Tbsp rice vinegar
-1 Tbsp sriracha
-6 c coleslaw mix (or shredded cabbage and carrots)
-4 scallions
-sesame seeds and 2 additional raw scallions for topping

Sriracha Mayo Sauce

-1/4 c mayo
-1 Tbsp sriracha
-1 Tbsp rice vinegar

Combine ingredients for sriracha mayo sauce and set aside.

Heat sesame oil in wok or large skillet over medium heat. Add ginger, saute 1 minute. Add garlic, saute 1 additional minute. Add pork, cook for 10 minutes, stirring often and breaking up pork with spoon. Add coleslaw mix, continue to cook until cabbage has softened, 5-10 minutes. While cabbage cooks, stir together soy sauce through sriracha. Once cabbage is softened add soy sauce mixture and scallions to the pan. Turn off heat and stir everything well. Serve in bowl with sesame seeds and scallions for topping and drizzled with the sriracha mayo sauce.

Chicken Tikka Masala

Chicken Tikka Masala

This is a lightened up version of the Indian classic. I also added peas, although nontraditional, to increase the nutrition. We like to eat this over basmati rice.

Chicken marinade

-1 lb chicken, cut into bite sized chunks
-1/2 c yogurt
-1 1/2 tsp salt
-1 tsp turmeric
-1 tsp garam masala
-1 tsp coriander
-1 tsp cumin

Masala sauce

-2 Tbsp butter, ghee or coconut oil
-1 onion, diced
-1 inch knob ginger, minced
-1 can crushed tomatoes
-1 tsp turmeric
-1 tsp garam masala
-1 tsp coriander
-1 tsp cumin
-1 tsp salt
-1 tsp sugar
-1/4 tsp cayenne
-1 cup frozen peas, thawed
-1/2 cup heavy cream
-handful of chopped cilantro for garnish

Whisk together marinade ingredients, then stir in chicken. Place in refrigerator to marinate for at least 1 hour, and up to overnight. After marinating shake off excess marinade and broil chicken for 7-8 minutes, until charred and just cooked through.

While chicken broils, heat butter/ oil in a medium pot over medium heat. Add onion and ginger, cook 10 minutes, stirring intermittently. Add tomatoes, then stir in turmeric through cayenne. Simmer 10 minutes. Remove from heat, stir in peas, stir in heavy cream, then stir in cooked chicken. Serve over rice and topped with cilantro.

Slow Cooker Korean Beef

Slow Cooker Korean Beef

We like to serve this over brown rice and top it with raw scallions and a squirt of sriracha.


-1-1.5 lb flank steak, cut across the grain into 4 pieces
-1/2 c soy sauce
-1 cup beef broth
-1/2-3/4 cup brown sugar
-1 Tbsp rice vinegar
-1 Tbsp sriracha
-2 Tbsp sesame oil
-4 cloves garlic, minced
-1 inch knob ginger, minced
-1 red bell pepper, diced
-2 Tbsp cornstarch dissolved in 2 Tbsp water
-scallions, sesame seeds and sriracha for garnish

Grease or spray the inside of your slow cooker. Combine soy sauce through ginger in the slow cooker and whisk well. Stir in diced bell pepper. Add flank steak and spoon sauce over top. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, until meat shreds easily with a fork. Add cornstarch mixture, stir and cook an additional 30 minutes. Add water, 1/2 cup at a time, if the mixture isn't sauce-y enough (or add more cornstarch if you want to thicken it). Serve.

Cheese Stuffed Mini Bell Peppers

Cheese Stuffed Mini Bell Peppers

These are so yummy and work as an appetizer or side dish. I've done them with and without the turkey bacon and like them either way, or you could use regular bacon if you prefer.

-1 pack mini bell peppers, tops cut off, sliced in half and seeded
-1 wheel laughing cow cheese (we like the pepperjack or chipotle)
-1 pack turkey bacon, sliced in half (optional)

Spread cheese inside each pepper half. If desired, wrap each stuffed pepper in turkey bacon and secure with a toothpick. Bake peppers at 425 for 15-20 minutes or until peppers have softened and bacon is crisp and browned. Cool 5 minuteds and serve.

Banana Swirl

Banana Swirl

This is such an easy, dairy-free dessert that is on the healthy side. My kids watched Daniel Tiger and wanted to make the banana swirl from the show. We have made it plain, like Daniel Tiger did, with just frozen bananas and we have also made versions with cocoa powder, nutella, peanut butter and honey (separately). Any way we've done it has been delicious. This is a great way to use up any bananas that are past their prime.

-6 bananas, sliced then frozen for at least 2 hours
-1-2 Tbsp nutella, peanut butter, honey or chocolate (if desired, but not necessary)

Place the bananas and any extra ingredients you are using in a food processor. Process until everything is smooth and uniform. Serve immediately for a soft serve texture or return to freezer for at least 2 hours to scoop and serve like a traditional ice cream.

Roasted Okra

Roasted Okra

This is by far my favorite way I've ever eaten okra and it is so simple. It's not slimey at all, and my non-okra liking hubby loves this.

-1 lb okra, tops cut off and pods sliced lengthwise
-2 Tbsp olive oil
-1/2 tsp salt
-1/4 tsp pepper

In a small bowl whisk together oil, salt and pepper. Toss oil with okra and arrange okra cut side down on a greased or lined baking sheet. Bake at 425 10-15 minutes until desired browning and tenderness is achieved. Serve immediately.

Asparagus and Brie Tart

Asparagus and Brie Tart

This tart is fairly simple yet super delicious and impressive. It can be sliced like a pizza and served as an appetizer or with a green salad for brunch or lunch. This is also very versatile. You can leave the egg out altogether for vegans and change up the cheese to fontina, ricotta or goat cheese depending on your preference.

-1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
-1 small wheel or wedge of brie with the rind cut off and cheese slliced
-1 egg, beaten
-1 bunch asparagus, trimmed

Cover a sheet pan in parchment. Place puff pastry on parchment and roll the dough out a little in each direction. Fold in each of the sides at about an inch to form a crust. Spread slices of brie inside of the crusts. Pour beaten egg over the crust and brush over edges. Lay asparagus over egg mixture. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Bake at 375 for 20 minutes, or until dough is puffed and golden. Cool 5 minutes and serve.

Gnocchi with Turkey Sausage, Tomatoes and Spinach

Gnocchi with Turkey Sausage, Tomatoes and Spinach

Top with shredded parmesan cheese, if desired

-1 package store bought gnocchi, cooked to package directions

-2 Tbsp olive oil

-1 onion, diced

-2 cloves garlic, minced

-1 lb Italian turkey sausage

-1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes

-1 tsp salt

-1/2 tsp pepper

-1/4 tsp red pepper flakes

-1/4 c heavy cream

-1/2 lb spinach

Heat oil in pan over medium heat. Add onion, saute, stirring often, 5 minutes. Add garlic, saute 1 additional minute. Add turkey sausage, crumbling the meat from the casings. Cook while breaking up with a wooden spoon until sausage is cooked through. About 10 minutes. Add tomatoes and their juices. Add salt, pepper and red pepper flakes. Add cream. Add spinach a few handfuls at a time stirring and adding more spinach as it wilts down. Once all of the spinach is wilted add cooked gnocchi, stir and serve.

Kheema (Indian Beef and Peas)

Kheema (Indian Beef and Peas)

Serve this over rice of your choice- we like basmatti and garnish with cilantro, if desired.

-2 Tbsp canola oil
-1 onion, diced
-1 inch knob ginger, peeled and minced
-4 cloves garlic, minced
-1 lb ground beef
-1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
-2 Tbsp curry powder
-1 tsp turmeric
-1/2 tsp cumin
-1 Tbsp sugar
-1 tsp salt
-1/4 tsp cayenne
-1 russet potato, peeled and cubed
1 cup frozen peas

Heat oil in medium pot over medium heat. Add onion and ginger, saute 5 minutes. Add garlic, saute 1 additional minute. Add beef, cook breaking up with a wooden spoon until well browned. Drain off fat. Add diced tomatoes, curry powder, turmeric, cumin, sugar, salt and cayenne and stir. Add potato, continue to cook, stirring intermittently, until potato is tender, about 10 minutes. Stir in peas, cook 5 additional minutes and serve.

Wilted Spinach Salad

Wilted Spinach Salad

This is one of my favorite salads. It's simple, yet elegant. You can serve it with cloves of roasted garlic, toasted pine nuts, or curls of parmesan cheese.

-2 Tbsp olive oil
-2 cloves garlic, minced
-1/2 pound spinach
-1/2 tsp salt
-1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
-juice of 1 lemon

Heat oil in pan over medium heat. Add garlic, saute 1 minute, stirring constantly. Add spinach a few handfuls at a time, stirring as it cooks down and adding more when you have room. Once all of the spinach is incorporated and wilted remove from heat, add salt, red pepper flakes and lemon juice and serve immediately.

White Bean Soup

White Bean Soup

This is my altered version of Shauna Niequist's Magical White Bean Soup from her book Bread and Wine. This soup base is vegan, glutenfree, quick, easy, inexpensive yet delicious and elegant. I like to leave it chunky, but it would be just as good pureed smooth. 

For The Soup
-2 Tbsp olive oil

-1 onion, diced
-1/2 pound carrots, diced
-1 bulb fennel, diced
-4 celery ribs, diced
-1 Tbsp dried rosemary

-1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
-6 cans white beans in liquid (cannellini or great northern beans)
-salt and pepper to taste

For The Vinaigrette
-1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
-1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
-1/4 teaspoon salt
-1/4 teaspoon pepper
-1/4 cup olive oil

For Serving
Prosciutto, torn into ribbons
Parmesan, curled into strips with a vegetable peeler

Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, fennel, and celery, and allow to soften, 10 to 15 minutes. Add beans in their liquid, rosemary and red pepper flakes. Cover and cook for 20 minutes at a gentle boil. Taste, add salt and pepper, taste again-- keep in mind that you'll get a good amount of salt from the toppings. Cook for an additional 20 minutes, or longer if you have time.

While the soup cooks, make the vinaigrette. Place all of the ingredients in a blender or food processor and mix until evenly incorporated.

To serve, ladle soup into bowls, drizzle with vinaigrette and top with parmesan and prosciutto (if desired).

Cherry Clafoutis

Cherry Clafoutis

This is one of my favorite desserts. It's simple yet elegant. It's not overly involved or overly sweet. Most importantly, it's delicious!

-3 eggs
-1/2 c sugar
-6 Tbsp butter, melted and cooled slightly
-1 c flour
-1 c milk
-1/2 tsp almond extract
-2.5 c frozen cherries, thawed

Beat the sugar and eggs together with a whisk until they lighten in color. Gradually add butter, beating to incorporate. Add the flour and whisk until everything is evenly incorporated into the batter. Next slowly pour in the milk a little at a time. Add the extract, mixing well.

Place the cherries in a greased round baking dish or cake pan (9 or 10 inches in diameter). Pour the batter over the fruit. Bake at 400 25 to 30 minutes, until slightly browned and almost completely set in the middle. Let sit at least 15 minutes before serving in wedges. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.

Cream Cheese Blueberry Galette

Cream Cheese Blueberry Galette

I took the quick and easy route on this one using store bought pie dough for the pastry. You can easily substitute your favorite pie crust recipe for the store bought variety. This is one of my favorite desserts. It's pretty, easy yet elegant, not overly sweet or heavy and  is delicious!

-1 store bought refrigerated pie crust
-2.5 cups frozen blueberries, thawed and drained
-1/3 cup plus 2 Tbsp granulate sugar, divided use
-4 tsp cornstarch
-1 (8 oz) package cream cheese
-1 tsp vanilla extract
-1 egg, plus 1 egg yolk

Place the pie crust on top of parchment paper on a sheet pan. 

Toss the blueberries, 1/3 cup sugar and cornstarch in a bowl. 

With a mixer, beat the cream cheese, vanilla, egg yolk and the remaining 2 tablespoons sugar in a separate bowl.

Spread the cream cheese mixture over the dough, leaving a 2-inch border. Top with the blueberries. Fold the edge of the dough over the filling working your way around the entire circle a few inches at a time.  Brush the crust with the beaten egg and sprinkle with a little extra sugar. Bake at 425 until the crust is golden, 20 to 25 minutes. Let cool slightly before slicing.

Beef Stroganoff

Beef Stroganoff

I like to serve this over whole wheat egg noodles but you could do it over rice, potatoes or any pasta of your preference. Garnish with parsley if desired.

-1 Tbsp olive oil
-1 lb flank steak, sliced into strips, across the grain
-2 Tbsp butter
-1 onion, diced
-1 (16 oz) package mushrooms, sliced
-2 cups beef broth
-5 Tbsp flour
-1 tsp thyme
-1/2 tsp salt
-1/2 tsp pepper
-1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
-1 Tbsp dijon mustard
-1/2 cup sour cream

Heat oil in medium pot over medium heat. Add flank steak, saute, stirring often, 3-5 minutes, until the strips are cooked rare ( somewhat browned, but still have some pink to them).  Set steak aside and drain off juices from meat. Add butter and onion to the pan, saute 5 minutes. Add mushrooms. Saute 5 additional minutes. Whisk together broth and flour, then pour into pan. Bring to a simmer, stirring everything. Once broth has thickened add salt, pepper, Worcestershire and dijon and stir to combine. Add beef back to the pot and turn off the heat. Stir in sour cream and serve.

Green Chile Strata

Green Chile Strata

This is a unique twist on the traditional breakfast casserole. It can all be assembled up to 24 hours in advance then refrigerated until you are ready to bake and serve.

-10 eggs
-2 cups milk
-1 tsp salt
-2 (7 oz) cans green chiles
-2 cups shredded pepper jack cheese
-10 corn tortillas, cut into bite sized strips

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk and salt. Stir in green chiles (and their juice), pepper jack and tortillas. Pour mixture into a greased 9 x 13 pan. Bake at 350 for 45-60 minutes, until the casserole is set and browned and puffy on top. Serve.

Zucchini and Rice Gratin

Zucchini and Rice Gratin

This is a twist on an old school Julia Child recipe. I have lightened up her recipe significantly and simplified the process. I loved the end result. This would be a great way to use up day old leftover rice.

-1/2 cup heavy cream
-1 tsp salt
-1/2 tsp pepper
-1 tsp dried thyme
-2 cloves garlic, minced
-6 zucchini, shredded (I used a food processor)
-1 cup cooked rice
-3/4 cup shredded parmesan cheese, divided use

In a medium bowl, whisk together cream, salt, pepper, thyme and garlic. Stir in shredded zucchini, rice and 1/2 cup parmesan cheese. Pour into a greased, medium sized casserole dish and top with remaining 1/4 cup parmesan. Bake at 350 for 20-30 minutes, until cheese on top has browned. Sprinkle with parsley if desired and serve immediately.

Turkey Sausage and Sweet Potato Hash

Turkey Sausage and Sweet Potato Hash

This is one of my favorite breakfasts ever, or also serves as a great breakfast for dinner. The flavor combination of the smokey sweet potatoes with the turkey sausage is amazing. I like to serve it with hot sauce and avocado slices. Because I like the pairing of sweet potatoes and black beans I like those as a side also, or some fruit.

-2 Tbsp olive oil
-1 Tbsp chili powder
-1 tsp cumin
-1 tsp salt
-1/2 tsp pepper
-1/4 tsp cayenne
-2 sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
-1 lb turkey breakfast sausage
-1 dozen eggs
-chopped cilantro

In a greased 9 x 13 pan combine olive oil through cayenne and stir to mix well. Add sweet potatoes and stir until well coated. Bake at 400 for 30 minutes, stirring halfway through.

While sweet potatoes are baking, cook turkey sausage in a pan, breaking up with a spoon while cooking. Drain off fat and set aside.

Once sweet potatoes are done, stir in turkey sausage into the pan. Then top the mixture with eggs and bake at 400 an additional 10-15 minutes until the egg whites are set but the yolks aren't fully cooked. Remove from oven, top with cilantro and serve.

Slow Cooker Beef Ragu

Slow Cooker Beef Ragu

This is such a hearty, easy dish that will warm you from the inside out. I served this over polenta but it would be great over pasta, rice or even mashed potatoes. Top with parmesan cheese and/ or parsley if desired.

- 1 Tbsp olive oil
-1 (29 oz) can crushed tomatoes
-1 onion, diced
-4 cloves garlic, minced
-1 Tbsp sugar
-1 tsp salt
-1/2 tsp pepper
-1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
-1 tsp dried rosemary
-1 tsp dried thyme
-1/2 tsp dried oregano
-1- 1.5 flank steak, trimmed of excess fat
-2 Tbsp balsamic vinegar

Grease the inside of a slow cooker with olive oil. Add the crushed tomatoes through oregano in the slow cooker and stir. Cut the flank steak into 4 pieces, place in slow cooker and spoon some of the tomato mixture over top. Cook on low for 8-10 hours until meat easily shreds easily. Stir in balsamic vinegar and serve over top of a starch of your choice.

Roasted Parmesan Zucchini

Roasted Parmesan Zucchini

This is my favorite way to eat zucchini.

-2 Tbsp olive oil
-1 tsp salt
-1/2 tsp pepper
-1/4 tsp garlic powder
-1/2 tsp thyme or oregano
-4 zucchini, each one cut into 8 spears
-1/4 cup shredded parmesan cheese

Place zucchini on a greased baking sheet (I like to line mine with parchment or foil for easy clean up). In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder and thyme or oregano. Pour oil mixture over zucchini and stir to coat. Sprinkle parmesan over zucchini. Bake at 400 for 10-15 minutes, until desired tenderness is reached.

Lightened Up Pasta with Vodka Sauce

Lightened Up Pasta with Vodka Sauce

I've replaced the butter with olive oil and reduced the cream in this over the traditional version to make it a little less guilt laden. Serve with a green salad or roasted asparagus or broccoli for a quick, vegetarian dinner.

-1 box penne pasta, cooked to al dente
-2 Tbsp olive oil
-1 onion, diced
-4 cloves garlic, minced
-3/4 cup vodka
-1 (29 oz) can tomato puree
-1 1/2 tsp salt
-1/2 tsp pepper
-1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
-1/2 c heavy cream
-1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese

Heat oil in medium to large pot, over medium heat. Add onion, saute 5 minutes stirring often. Add garlic, saute 1 more minute stirring constantly. Add vodka, simmer 3 minutes, stirring intermittently. Add tomato puree, salt, pepper and red pepper flakes. Simmer 5 minutes. Stir in cream, remove from heat, toss pasta with sauce and top with parmesan cheese.

Israeli Chopped Salad

Israeli Chopped Salad

This is a great salad to serve with gyros, hummus, chicken gyros, shakshuka or any Mediterranean meal. You can also toss feta and/ or chickpeas into this to make it a more hearty salad.

-3 Tbsp lemon juice
-3 Tbsp olive oil
-1 tsp salt
-1/2 tsp pepper
-1 english cucumber, chopped
-1 green pepper, chopped
-1/2 red onion, chopped
-4 roma tomatoes, seeded and chopped
-1 bunch parsley, chopped

In a medium bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, salt and pepper. Toss with remaining ingredients. Serve immediately or refrigerate up to 2 hours prior to serving.

Baked Sweet and Sour Pork

Baked Sweet and Sour Pork

This recipe works equally well with chicken and pork. It's a fuss-free, lightened up version of the classic Chinese takeout dish. Serve over your rice of choice for soaking up the access sauce.

Sweet and Sour Sauce
-1/2 cup pineapple juice
-1/2 cup ketchup
-1/2 cup brown sugar
-1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
-1/4 cup water
-1 Tbsp soy sauce
-1 tsp red pepper flakes
-1 tsp sesame oil
-1 Tbsp canola or vegetable oil
-2 cloves garlic, minced
-1 inch chunk ginger, minced
-1 Tbsp cornstarch, mixed with 1 Tbsp water

-1 pound lean pork, trimmed of excess fat and cut into bite sized pieces
-1 pineapple, peeled and cored and cut into bite sized pieces
-1 green pepper, cut into bite sized pieces
-1 red pepper, cut into bite sized pieces

In a small bowl, whisk together pineapple juice through sesame oil and set aside. Heat oil in a small pot, over medium heat. Add garlic and ginger, saute 1 minute. Pour pineapple juice mixture into pot and bring to a simmer. Whisk in cornstarch, reduce heat and simmer 3 minutes, or until mixture thickens. Remove sauce from heat and cool at least 15 minutes.

In a greased 13 x 9 pan combine pork,chopped pineapple, bell peppers and cooled sauce. Stir well. Bake at 400 for 30 minutes, stirring once halfway through. Serve immediately over your favorite rice.

Whole Roasted Cauliflower with Whipped Feta

Whole Roasted Cauliflower with Whipped Feta

This is a knock off of a dish served at a local restaurant called Domenica. Even my non-cauliflower eating hubby ate this one.

-2.5 cups white wine
-1/3 cup olive oil
-1/4 cup salt
-4 Tbsp lemon juice
-2 Tbsp butter
-1 Tbsp sugar
-1 tsp red pepper flakes
-1 bay leaf
-1 head cauliflower, outer leaves removed

Whipped Feta
-1/2 cup feta cheese
-2 Tbsp olive oil
-1 Tbsp lemon juice
-1/4 tsp salt

In a medium large pot combine wine through bay leaf with 8 cups of water and bring to a boil. Add cauliflower, reduce heat and simmer 15 minutes, turning every 5 minutes to ensure even cooking. Remove cauliflower from liquid using a slotted spoon and drain on a kitchen towel. Roast cauliflower at 475 for 30 minutes, or until it is browned all over.

While cauliflower is cooking combine feta, olive oil, lemon juice and salt in a food processor. Process until smooth. Refrigerate until cauliflower is done.

Once cauliflower is done, remove from oven and serve with feta on the side for spreading.

Blondies

Blondies

This is a good base recipe and then you can change up the mix ins. White chocolate and dried cranberries would be good. Or any kind of nut, butterscotch or caramel chip would work also. Sometimes I do a light sprinkling of sea salt over top before popping in the oven. This recipe easily doubles to do a 13 x 9 pan if you're feeding a crowd.

-1 stick butter, softened
-1 cup brown sugar
-1 egg
-1 tsp vanilla
-1/4 tsp salt
-1 c flour
-1 c chocolate chips (or mix in of your choice)

In a mixing bowl, cream together butter and sugar. Stir in egg, vanilla and salt, Stir in flour. Stir in chocolate chips. Spread batter into a greased 8 x 8 pan and bake at 350 for 20-25 minutes.

Sweet Chili Brussels Sprouts

Sweet Chili Brussels Sprouts

-2 lbs brussels sprouts, sliced in half and outer leaves discarded
-2 Tbsp olive oil
-1/2 tsp salt
-4 Tbsp sweet chili sauce
-2 tsp soy sauce

Toss brussels sprouts with olive oil and salt, Roast at 400 for 15-20 minutes, until browned to your liking. While brussels sprouts roast, stir together sweet chili sauce and soy sauce. Once the brussels sprouts are nicely browned, toss with the sauce and roast 5 additional minutes. Serve immediately.

Sukuma Wiki- Kenyan Beef with Collards and Tomatoes

Sukuma Wiki/ Kenyan Beef with Collards and Tomatoes

I love the flavors and simplicity of this dish. Serve over brown rice for a balanced, easy, nutritious meal.

-2 Tbsp olive, peanut, coconut or canola oil
-1 onion, diced
-1 lb lean ground beef
-4 cloves garlic, minced
-1 tsp cumin
-1 tsp coriander
-1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp ginger
-1/2 tsp turmeric
-1 tsp salt
-1/2 tsp black pepper
-1/4 tsp cayenne
-1 bunch collards, washed and sliced into strips
-1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, sliced in half
-juice of 1 lemon

Heat oil in medium pot over medium heat. Add onion, saute 5 minutes. Add beef, cook until brown, about 10 minutes, stirring and breaking apart with a spoon while cooking. Drain off fat. Add garlic, cook 2 additional minutes, stirring well. Add spices, cook 1 additional minutes. Add collards, cook 5 minutes, stirring intermittently. Add tomatoes, cook 3 more minutes, stirring intermittently. Remove from heat, stir in lemon juice and serve immediately over your preferred rice.

Sweet Potato, Corn and Black Bean Salad with Chipotle Lime Dressing

Sweet Potato, Corn and Black Bean Salad

This is a great side dish to accompany Mexican flavored main dishes or can serve as a main dish of its own. The combination of flavors, textures and colors make this salad dynamic. If you have an avocado lying around that would be a great addition in here as well.

Sweet Potatoes
-2 Tbsp canola oil
-1 Tbsp chili powder
-1 tsp cumin
-1/4 tsp cayenne
-1 tsp salt
-1/2 tsp pepper
-2 sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into a bite sized dice

Corn
-Tbsp butter
-1 bag (16 oz) frozen corn
-1/2 tsp salt

Chipotle Lime Dressing
-8 oz sour cream
-zest and juice of 1 lime
-1 chipotle in adobo pepper, minced- or 1 Tbsp chipotle hot sauce
-1 tsp sugar
-1/2 tsp salt

Salad
-1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
-1/2 red onion, diced
-1/2 red bell pepper, diced
-1 bunch cilantro, minced

Whisk together canola oil, chili powder, cumin, cayenne, 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp pepper. Toss with diced sweet potatoes. Roast sweet potatoes at 400 for 30 minutes, stirring halfway through.

While sweet potatoes are cooking heat melt butter over medium high heat in a medium pot. Add corn. Cook 10 minutes, stirring intermittently, until corn has a nice char to it. Stir in salt and set corn aside.

While sweet potatoes cook and after corn is made whisk together dressing ingredients and set aside.

When sweet potatoes are done, in a medium large bowl toss sweet potatoes with corn, black beans, red onion, red bell pepper and cilantro. Drizzle dressing over top and serve.

Spinach and Artichoke Quinoa Bake

Spinach and Artichoke Quinoa Bake

Because quinoa is packed with protein it is a great grain for a vegetarian or vegan dinner. It is also gluten-free, so it is a good option for those with dietary restrictions. To make cooking the quinoa easy, I like to cook it in my rice cooker using a 2:1 water to quinoa ratio. This dish can serve as a vegetarian main dish, or as a side dish to accompany your favorite meat.

-1 c quinoa, cooked according to package directions
-2 eggs
-1/2 c heavy cream
-1/2 c plain greek yogurt
-1 tsp salt
-1/2 tsp pepper
-1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
-1/2 tsp dried thyme
-1/2 tsp dried rosemary
-3 cloves garlic, minced
3/4 c shredded mozzarella, divided use
-1/2 c shredded parmesan, divided usse
1 (15 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
-1 (10 oz) package frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed of excess moisture using a kitchen towel

In medium bowl, whisk together eggs, cream, yogurt, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, thyme, rosemary and garlic. Stir in 1/2 c mozzarella, 1/4 c parmesan, artichoke hearts and spinach. Spread mixture into a small, greased casserole dish. (I use an 8x8 pan). Top with remaining 1/4 c of mozzarella and parmesan. Bake at 350 for 20- 30 minutes and serve immediately.

Caprese Quinoa Bake

Caprese Quinoa Bake

I make a lot of varied quinoa bakes and salads and Jeremy and I both agreed that this is the best one I've ever made by far. It's a great light lunch or dinner or can be served as a side dish to your favorite meat.

-1 c quinoa, cooked according to package directions
-1 c marinara sauce, tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
-1/3 c heavy cream
-1/2 tsp salt
-1/4 tsp pepper
-1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
-1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, sliced in half
-1 1/4 c shredded mozzarella cheese, divided use
-1 bunch basil, sliced into ribbons
-1/3 c balsamic vinegar

In a medium bowl, whisk together marinara sauce/ tomatoes, cream, salt, pepper and red pepper flakes. Stir in tomatoes, reserving a small handful of tomatoes to top the finished dish. Stir in 1 c of the mozzarella. Spread mixture into a small greased casserole dish. (I use an 8x8 pan). Top with remaining 1/4 c mozzarella. Bake at 350 for 30 minutes. While dish is making, place balsamic vinegar in a small sauce pot over medium heat. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer 5 minutes. Then remove from heat. When the casserole is done baking, pour the balsamic over top and top the dish with the reserved handful of tomatoes and sliced basil. Serve immediately.

Dairy-Free Fudge

Dairy-Free Fudge

I got this recipe from a friend, who I think got it from somewhere else, so I have no idea where it originated from. I will says that it is delicious and tastes just like peanut butter fudge made with butter and refined sugar- I don't miss those ingredients at all!

-1 can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
-2/3 c smooth, natural peanut butter
-1/2 c maple syrup
-1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
-dash salt
-1/3 c coconut oil, melted

Combine all ingredients in a food processor and process for 8-10 minutes. Spread mixture into a loaf pan that has been greased or lined with wax paper. Freeze for 1 hour, cut into squares, freeze for 1 additional hour until fully set.

Moroccan Quinoa Salad

Moroccan Quinoa Salad

This can be a light main dish, or a side dish to accompany your meat of preference. 

-1 cup quinoa, cooked according to package directions
-1/4 c olive oil
-zest and juice of 1 lemon
-1 tsp cumin
-1 tsp curry powder
-1 tsp turmeric
-1/4 tsp cinnamon
-1 tsp salt
-1/4 tsp cayenne
-1 Tbsp sugar or honey
-1 can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
-3 carrots, shredded
-1 bunch cilantro, mint or parsley, chopped
-1/2 c raisins
-1/2 c sunflower seeds

In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon zest and juice, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, cinnamon, salt, cayenne and sugar/ honey. Toss with remaining ingredients. Serve immediately or chill until serving.

Greek Quinoa Salad

Greek Quinoa Salad

This salad is great as is, but sometimes I like to toss in some romaine or spinach before serving. This is best at room temperature so if you refrigerate prior to serving, allow salad to sit out for 30 minutes prior to serving to take the chill off.

-1 cup quinoa, cooked according to package directions
-1/4 c olive oil
-1/8 c red wine vinegar
-1 tsp sugar
-1 tsp salt
-1/2 tsp pepper
-1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
-1 Tbsp oregano
-zest and juice of 1 lemon
-2 cloves garlic, minced
-1 cucumber, sliced into rounds, then cut into quarters
-1 pint grape or cherry tomatoes, sliced in half
-1/2 cup feta cheese
-(optional) 1/4 c kalamata olives

In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, sugar, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, oregano, lemon juice and zest and garlic. Toss with remaining ingredients. Serve immediately or chill until serving.

Homemade Ranch Dip

Homemade Ranch Dip

I always have all of these ingredients on hand and can therefore be minutes away from whipping up a veggie tray at any moment. If you would like to turn this into a ranch dressing simply whisk in milk or buttermilk until you reach the consistency you'd like.

-1/2 c mayo
-1/2 cup sour cream
-1 clove garlic, minced
-1 tsp sugar
-1/2 tsp salt
-1/4 tsp pepper
-2 tsp white vinegar
-1 tsp dried parsley
-1 tsp dried chives
-1/2 tsp dried dill
-1/2 tsp dried oregano

Whisk together all ingredients. Chill at least 30 minutes (or up to 3 days) prior to serving.

Caprese Pasta Salad

Caprese Pasta Salad

This can serve as a vegetarian entree, or a side dish to accompany any main meat. This dish is best at room temperature, so if you refrigerate prior to serving, allow it to sit out for 30 minutes to take the chill off before serving.

-1 box pasta, cooked according to package directions (I used whole wheat small shells)
-1/4 c olive oil
-1/4 c balsamic vinegar
-1 tsp salt
-1/2 tsp pepper
-1 tsp sugar
-1 pint grape or cherry tomatoes, sliced in half
-1 pack mini fresh mozzarella balls
-1 bunch basil, sliced into ribbons

In a medium bowl whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, pepper and sugar. Toss with pasta, tomatoes, mozzarella and basil. Serve immediately or chill until serving.

Sesame Chicken Bake

Sesame Chicken Bake

This dish has all the flavors of takeout Chinese Sesame Chicken without the fat or work of frying. I like to serve mine over a bed of brown rice and with steamed broccoli for soaking up the extra sauce.

-1/2 c water, mixed with 1/4 c cornstarch
-1 cup chicken broth
-4 Tbsp soy sauce
-2 Tbsp sesame oil
-1 cup sugar
-1 tsp- 1 Tbsp sriracha sauce
-1 lb chicken breasts, cut into bite sized chunks
-1 Tbsp sesame seeds
-4 scallions, sliced

Combine water/ cornstarch through sriracha in a small pot over medium heat. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer 5 minutes, until sauce has thickened. Stir sauce and cut up chicken together in a greased 13 x 9 pan. Bake at 400 for 30 minutes. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve over rice.

Red Cabbage Salad with dates and feta

Red Cabbage Salad with dates and feta

After seeing this salad posted on Smitten Kitchen I was super curious and skeptical about the combination of ingredients. Surprisingly, I LOVED this and found that the ingredients work so well together and each one is essential to pull this unexpected salad off. To quickly shred the red cabbage I use my food processor.


-zest and juice of 1 lemon
3Tbsp olive oil
-1 tsp salt
-1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
-1 small head red cabbage, shredded
-1/2 c dates, chopped
-1/2 cup feta
-1/2 bunch parsley, chopped
-1 Tbsp sesame seeds

In a medium to large bowl whisk together the lemon zest and juice through the red pepper flakes. Toss with remaining ingredients and serve.

Bread Pudding

Bread Pudding

This is my twist on the traditional New Orleans dessert. I use whole wheat sandwich bread because I have it on hand and it adds a little nutrition with the whole grains but sliced french bread would be the most authentic option.

Pudding

-2.5 cups milk
-4 eggs
-2 Tbsp butter, melted
-3 Tbsp whiskey, bourbon or rum
-1 Tbsp vanilla
-1/4 tsp salt
-1 tsp cinnamon
-2 c sugar
-1/2 c raisins (optional)
-1/4 c chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
-10 slices bread, cut into bite sized chunks

In a medium bowl, whisk together milk through cinnamon. Add sugar and whisk again. Stir in remaining ingredients. Pour into a greased 13 x 9 dish and bake at 350 for 40-50 minutes, until set but still moist.

Sauce

-1 stick butter
-1/2 c sugar
1/4 c whiskey, bourbon or rum

While pudding bakes, combine sauce ingredients in a small pot. Bring to a low boil, reduce heat and simmer 10 minutes, stirring often. Once pudding is baked pour sauce over top and serve warm.

Fruit and Nut Quinoa Salad

Fruit and Nut Quinoa Salad

This salad is very versatile- you could use almost any fruit or nuts you prefer and have on hand. Serve on its own, over greens or as a side dish to accompany a main entree. You could eat this for breakfast, lunch or dinner. I take a shortcut on cooking my quinoa and cook it in the rice cooker just like I would with rice.

-1 cup quinoa, cooked according to package directions
-2 Tbsp olive oil
-zest and juice of 1 lime
-1-2 Tbsp sugar or honey
-1/2 tsp salt
-1 Tbsp curry powder
-1 cup dried fruit of choice, chopped (I used dates, cranberries, dried coconut  and apricots)
-1/2 cup nuts of choice (I used sliced almonds)
-3 scallions, sliced
-1/2 bunch chopped cilantro or mint

In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil through curry powder. Toss with remaining ingredients and serve.

Moroccan Carrot Salad

Moroccan Carrot Salad

This recipe was inspired by an instagram post of something Shauna Niequist made. I wasn't even sure that I would like it, but having LOVED all of Shauna's recipes I gave it a try and was pleasantly surprised by this unexpected combination of flavors and textures. I'm not sure if the feta and sunflower seeds classify as Moroccan, but they work with the dish and add a nice flavor and texture- feel free to leave them out if you want to be more on the authentic side.

-1/4 c olive oil
-juice and zest of 1 lemon
-1 Tbsp honey
-3/4 tsp salt
-1/4 tsp cayenne
-1 tsp cumin
-1/2 tsp coriander
- lb carrots, shredded
-1 can chickpeas, drained
-1/2 c feta
-12 dried apricots, chopped
-1/4 c sunflower seeds
-1 bunch mint, chopped

In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil through coriander. Toss with remaining ingredients and serve.

Baked Chicken Fajitas

Baked Chicken Fajitass

Recently I have started baking my fajitas rather than cooking them on the stove. This works so much easier for me when I have small children running around and can't always baby-sit and stir a pan on the stove. We might even like the end result a little more than when I cook them on the stove. If I'm serving meat eaters and vegetarians I will add extra veggies (like zucchini, squash and/ or tomatoes) and cook the veggies in a separate dish from the meat. I usually have to use two 13 x 9 pans when cooking these so that I don't overcrowd things.

-4 Tbsp olive oil
-2 Tbsp chili powder
-1 Tbsp paprika
-2 tsp cumin
-1 Tbsp sugar
-2 tsp salt
-1 tsp pepper
-1/4 tsp cayenne
-6 cloves garlic, minced
-1 lb chicken breasts, cut into thin strips
-1 onion, sliced
-1 pack mushrooms, sliced
-2 colored bell peppers
-zest and juice of 2 limes
-1/2 bunch cilantro, chopped
-desired fajita fixings; tortillas, sour cream, salsa, guacamole, cilantro, hot sauce etc.

In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil through minced garlic. Toss with the chicken through bell peppers. Spread the veggie/ meat mixture into two greased baking dishes or sheet pans. Bake at 400 for 30 minutes, stirring halfway through. Put under the broiler for 5-10 minutes to give it a good browning/ char. Stir in lime juice, zest and cilantro and serve.

Vegetable Pot Pie

Vegetable Pot Pie

-4 Tbsp butter
-1 onion, diced
-1 pack mushrooms, sliced
-1/4 flour
-2.5 cups vegetable broth
-1 tsp turmeric
-1/2 tsp dried rosemary
-1 tsp dried thyme
-1/2 tsp salt
-1/2 tsp pepper
1/4 cup heavy cream
-1 small bag frozen mixed vegetables
-1 sheet puff pastry
-1 egg, beaten (optional)

Melt butter in a medium to large pot over medium heat. Add onion and saute 5 minutes. Add mushrooms and saute 5 more minutes. Sprinkle the flour into the pan and cook an additional 2 minutes, stirring constantly. Whisk in broth and cook, while whisking 5 minutes, until the mixture thickens. Add the turmeric through frozen vegetables and stir well. Pour into a greased 13x9 pan.

Roll the pastry to fit the top (or you can cut it up and do a lattice pattern on top). Place the pastry over the filling and brush the top with the egg.

Bake at 375 for 30-40 minutes, until the pastry is brown and puffed. Let cool 10 minutes before serving.

Chicken Parmesan Bake

Chicken Parmesan Bake

This isn't your traditional chicken parmesan. By omitting the frying this dish is more healthful and very easy to throw together. If you are in a hurry you could use jarred sauce rather than making your own and save 15 minutes. Serve on top of your favorite pasta.

-2 Tbsp olive oil
-1 onion, diced
-4 cloves garlic, minced
-1 (29 oz) can crushed tomatoes
-1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
-1 Tbsp Italian seasoning
-1 Tbsp sugar
-1 tsp salt
-1/2 tsp pepper
-1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
-1 lb chicken breasts, cut into bite sized pieces
-1/2 c shredded mozzarella cheese
-1/4 c shredded parmesan cheese
-(optional) basil or parsley to sprinkle as a garnish

Heat oil in medium pot, over medium heat. Add onion, saute 5 minutes Add garlic, saute 1 minute. Add crushed tomatoes-red pepper flakes and simmer 10 minutes, stirring regularly. In a medium sized greased casserole dish combine sauce and chicken, stirring to coat. Bake at 400 for 30 minutes. top with cheeses and bake 5 more minutes. Sprinkle with garnish, if using and serve with you favorite cooked pasta.

Shepherd's Pie

Shepherd's Pie

To make this authentic Shepherd's Pie you would actually need to use lamb instead of beef, with beef it is technically Cottage Pie, but I grew up calling it Shepherd's Pie so that's what I call it even if it is a tad inaccurate. I double the recipe when I want to make an entire 9x13 pan to feed a crowd, As is this recipe should feed 4-6 people. Sometimes I'll add a can of diced tomatoes with their juices to the filling when I feel like it. For a different variation, use ground turkey instead of the beef, chicken broth instead of the beef broth and sweet potatoes instead of white potatoes.

-1 Tbsp olive oil
-1 lb ground beef
-1 onion, diced
-1 small package mushrooms, sliced
-2 cloves garlic, minced
-1 Tbsp butter
-1 Tbsp flour
-1 cup beef broth
-1 tsp dried thyme
-1 tsp dried rosemary
-1/2 tsp salt
-1/2 tsp black pepper
-1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
-4 Tbsp ketchup
-1 small package mixed frozen vegetables (I like the combination of peas, corn, carrots and green beans)
-2 large russet potatoes, peeled, diced and boiled until tender
-1/4 c milk
-4 Tbsp butter
-1/2 tsp salt
-1/4 tsp pepper
-paprika and/ or parsley for sprinkling as a garnish (if desired)

Heat oil in medium to large pot, over medium heat. Add onion and beef, stirring intermittently and breaking up the beef with a wooden spoon. Once beef is mostly brown drain off the fat and add the mushrooms and garlic. Saute an additional 1-2 minutes, drain the entire mixture using a strainer and set aside. Return pan to heat and melt butter. Once butter is melted sprinkle in the flour. Cook, stirring constantly, 1-2 minutes. Whisk in broth. Add thyme, rosemary, salt, pepper, Worcestershire and ketchup. Continue to cook, stirring, until the sauce has thickened. Add vegetables, stir, and spread into a medium sized, greased baking dish. Mash potatoes with the milk, butter, salt and pepper and spread over top of the beef mixture. Bake at 350 for 20 minutes. Sprinkle with paprika and parsley for garnish if desired. Serve.

Mediterranean Quinoa Bake

Mediterranean Quinoa Bake

Quinoa dishes are my go to when I need a quick and easy vegan or vegetarian meal. They are easy to throw together- usually dump and stir- and packed with nutrition. They are also versatile and you can easily change up the veggies and seasonings to use up what you have on hand. I take a short cut to cook my quinoa and do it in the rice cooker using a 2:1 ratio of water to quinoa. This can be a vegetarian main dish or a side dish to accompany your favorite meat- it would be amazing with kebabs.

-juice and zest of 1 lemon
-4 Tbsp olive oil
-1 tsp salt
-1/2 tsp black pepper
-1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
-1 tsp dried dill
-1 tsp dried oregano
-4 cloves garlic, minced
-1 cup quinoa, cooked according to package directions
-1 (16 oz) pack frozen spinach thawed and moisture squeezed out using a kitchen towel
-1 cup grape or cherry tomatoes, halved
-1 cup chopped roasted red peppers and/ or artichoke hearts
-1 cup feta cheese

In a medium bowl, whisk together lemon juice and zest, olive oil, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, dill, oregano and garlic. Stir in remaining ingredients. Spread into a medium sized greased baking dish. Top with an additional sprinkling of feta, if desired. Bake at 350 for 20-30 minutes. Cool 5 minutes and serve.

Spinach Mushroom Ramel Bowl

Spinach Mushroom Ramen Bowl

Omit the egg and this dish is vegan. Substitute rice noodles and it is also gluten free. I like to prepare the broth in the morning, refrigerate all day, then heat back up to cook the noodles and wilt the spinach just before serving.

-2 Tbsp canola, vegetable or sesame oil
-1 inch chunk of ginger, minced
-4 cloves garlic, minced
-8 cups vegetable, chicken or beef broth
-1 Tbsp soy sauce
-1/2-1 Tbsp sriracha sauce
-1 Tbsp honey or sugar
-1 (8 oz) pack mushrooms, sliced
-a few handfuls of baby spinach
-2 packages instant ramen noodles, seasoning packets discarded
-sliced scallions for garnish
-4 soft boiled eggs (simmered for 7 minutes)

Heat oil in medium pot over medium heat. Add ginger and garlic, saute for 1 minute. Add broth, soy sauce, sriracha and sugar, simmer for 5 minutes. Add mushrooms, simmer 5 more minutes. Add noodles, simmer for 3 minutes, stirring with a fork to break noodles apart. Turn off heat, stir in spinach and let sit for 5 minutes or until it wilts. Spoon noodles and broth into serving bowls, top with green onions and float two halves of a soft boiled egg on top.

(To soft boil an egg bring a small pot of water to a boil, reduce heat to a simmer, with the support of a spoon add the eggs, continue to simmer 7 minutes. Plunge eggs into an ice bath for 2 minutes, then peel)

Sweet Chili Chicken

Sweet Chili Chicken

As a shortcut you can use bottle sweet chili sauce instead of the homemade to make this a super quick and easy dish to throw together. I like to mix the chicken with the sauce in the baking pan the morning of, then refrigerate and just pop in the oven in the evening. Serve with rice and your favorite steamed or roasted veggies.

-1/2 cup warm water
-1/2 cup honey or sugar
-1/4 cup rice vinegar
-zest and juice of 1 lime
-2 Tbsp soy sauce
-1 1/2 Tbsp cornstarch
-2 cloves garlic minced
-1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
-1 tsp Sriracha
-1 tsp salt
-1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into large bite sized chunks
-green onions and sesame seeds for garnish

Whisk together water through salt in a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring constantly. Once thickened, remove from heat and cool.

Pour cooled sauce into a greased medium sized baking dish. Add chicken, stir to coat with the sauce. Bake at 400 for 30 minutes then broil for 3 minutes to add a little color. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions and serve.