Ladibug32

Creamy Roasted Tomato Soup

2011-09-24T13:30:00.000-04:00

A great way to use up all those end of the summer tomatoes. The tofu creates a rich and creamy texture with out the fat and calories while adding punch of protein. Great served with a dollop of sour cream or would make a great meal with a rich grilled cheese sandwich.

serves 6-8

Ingredients:
4 lbs tomato, sliced in half length wise
1 head of garlic, peeled
2 c carrots
1 bunch basil
12 oz container soft tofu
1 qt chicken or vegetable broth
olive oil
salt and pepper

Directions:
Pre-heat oven to 375. Add tomatoes, garlic and carrots to a large sheet pan, use two if needed, drizzle with olive oil, salt and pepper. Roast for about an hour or until the tomatoes start to dry out and get brown on the edges. Add broth to the soup pot and put on medium low heat. Divide the roasted vegetables in the three batches adding 4 oz of tofu and basil. Carefully puree each batch in the blender and add to the chicken broth. After done with all three batches stir to combine with the both and simmer for 20 minutes. Serve warm topped with sour cream, basil and a drizzle of olive oil or a yummy grilled cheese sandwich!Enable screen reader

What I've Been Up To

2011-08-26T10:11:00.002-04:00

Bacon Blue Potato Salad

2011-06-19T13:14:00.000-04:00

Give your boring potato salad some zip with blue cheese and bacon. What more could a steak want. To make things even easier try using 1 cup of blue cheese salad dressing in place of the blue cheese, mayo and vinegar.

Ingredients
8 oz blue cheese, crumbled
1 lb slab bacon, 1/2-in diced
2 lb new potatoes
1/2 c mayonnaise
1/4 c apple cider vinegar
4 green onions, sliced in rounds

Directions
Add diced bacon to a dry pan and cook on medium low heat till crispy, 20-40 min. While the bacon is cooking wash and quart potatoes to make equal in size. Add to a pot and fill with water. Cook until fork tender. While the bacon and potatoes are cooking make the dressing. Add green onion and blue cheese to a small bowl and set aside. In a large bowl whisk mayonnaise and cider vinegar, add salt and pepper to taste. Once the potatoes are fork tender drain, add to dressing and toss to coat potatoes. Remove bacon from grease with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towel. Add bacon to potatoes and mix. Let chill for 1-2 hrs. When ready to serve bring up to room temp and add blue cheese green onion mixture and toss. Great served steak!

Strawberry Lemonade Cupcakes

2011-06-16T20:22:00.001-04:00

Despite the super moist butter in this recipe these cute little cupcakes are as light as air and perfect for a warm summer night.

cake:
1 box of butter cake mix
1 large or 2 small lemons
1/2 cup sugar

butter cream frosting:
1/2 lb of butter at room temperature
1 lb confectioners sugar
2 tbls sugar
1 pint strawberries
1 tsp vanilla

Follow directions on cake mix adding the zest of 1 large or 2 small lemons. While the cupcakes are baking juice the lemons in a microwave safe bowl, add sugar and microwave till sugar is dissolved, 30-60 seconds. Set aside to cool.
When the cupcakes are done remove them and while still warm drizzle them with the lemon simple syrup mixture. This might take a couple of minutes while the cupcakes slowly absorb the simple syrup.
While the cupcakes are cooling dice the strawberries add them to a colander with 2 tablespoons of sugar. Let them drain to remove some of the moisture. Add the butter to the mixer, mix till light and fluffy. Add confectionery sugar slowly till it is fully incorporated. Fold in strawberries and vanilla in and frost cooled cupcakes.

Roasted Ramp Pesto

2011-06-14T20:26:00.002-04:00

A great way to enhance the flavors of the ramp. Roasting will sweeten and minimize the pungency of these delicate treasures of the forest.

Ingredients
2-3 bunches of ramps, cleaned and dried
1/2 cup + 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1/2 cup pecorino romano cheese, grated
1/4 cup pignoli nuts, toasted
salt and pepper to taste
1lb pasta

Directions
Pre-heat oven to 375. Place ramps on a baking sheet in a single layer, you might need two baking sheets, drizzle with 2 tbsp of olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste. Roast for 15-20 min or until the ends start browning and getting crispy. (While the ramps are roasted start your pot of water for the pasta.) Transfer to a food processor, add pignoli nuts and blend till smooth. Slowly drizzle in olive oil till emulsified. Transfer to a serving bowl and mix in the pecorino romano cheese. Toss with pasta. If the pesto is a little to thick you can thin with pasta water. Enjoy!

5 Simple Ingredients

2011-06-14T19:46:00.000-04:00

What a wonderful way to end a day. Five simple ingredients... tomatoes ripe off the vine, fresh made mozzarella, basil (picked from my garden), syrupy balsamic vinegar and a fruit extra virgin olive oil. No salt, pepper or anything else needed.

Belmar NJ - Seafood Festival 2011

2011-06-12T21:19:00.000-04:00

I started out the afternoon with a little balsamic tasting to wet my palette. John Spenger's Bistro Blends were exceptionally crafted. The heirloom balsamic was surprisingly smooth and sweet with a warm vinegar finish.
After surveying the land for the best eats I took a peek at all the Cajun shrimp and yummy whole grilled fish.
I settled on getting my souvenir mug with unlimited refills at Wild Bill's. Being more of a "purist" I stuck to the diet rocky mountain root beer but definitely had to taste the vintage vanilla cream and outlaw orange. Of course all delicious and refreshing on a humid day like today.

I had to stop and ogle at the large bin of beautiful steamed shrimp. The were pretty big, at least 16-20U. I settled on some roasted clams, lobster and corn. What a feast!

After running into some friends, digesting and walking around for a while I went to look for the alligator sausage I was told I had to try. Tasted like chicken. haha, ok just kidding. Well, kind of... Very tasty but I lost the mild alligator flavor to the spice. In retrospect I probably should have tried the alligator poppers from Crave Cajun Food to taste the actual alligator.
After having my fill of soda, stopping to get some kettle corn, my weakness, and doing a little more walking around. I stumbled upon Button's French Crepes, Princeton, NJ. A little disappointed they weren't making any savory, ummm seafood, crepes I tasted the s'mores crepe. Heaped high with marshmallows, nutella and gram cracker crumbs it was the perfect way to end a delightfully filling day. And who doesn't love a frosty beverage donning a sunglasses clad strawberry!

Tiella

2011-01-24T20:52:00.000-05:00

I love this served with grilled balsamic chicken or some baked tofu. It's light yet hearty with the addition of nutty parmesan and potatoes. The trickiest part of this simple recipe is finding veggies that are the same size. (I cheat and cut them in half.)

Ingredients:
1 med. zucchini
1 med. yellow squash
2-3 red skin potatoes
1 Japanese or Indian eggplant (just for size)
2 small tomatoes
1 onion, diced
2 cloves of garlic, chopped
6 tbsp of olive oil
1/4 cup of parmesan cheese

Directions:
Add 2 tbsp of olive oil, diced onion and garlic to a med saute pan. Cook on med heat till translucent. While onions and garlic are cooking slice the zucchini, yellow squash, potatoes, eggplant and tomatoes evenly. Once onions are translucent spread in the bottom of a casserole pan. Layer the sliced vegetables on an angle alternating them to make a pretty design. Top with parmesan cheese and olive oil. Bake at 375 for 45-60 min or until the potatoes are cooked.

Happy Thanksgiving

2010-12-14T10:55:00.000-05:00

As an alternative to pumpkin pie. I decided to go with a lighter pumpkin souffle recipe. I was very nervous about the trial run but it looks so pretty. I used a recipe from Gourmet for the Spiced-Pumpkin Souffle with Bourbon Molasses Sauce. It came out well. I didn't add the bourbon molasses sauce but just dusted it with powdered sugar. It was definitely light and airy.

I often order souffles out but I've never made one. I did a large 1.5 quart souffle. I think the individual ones might come out better but I love the grand look of a large one. Any suggestion on adjusting cooking time/temperatures for converting recipes? Happy coooking!

Are Macaroons the NEW Cupcake?

2010-06-23T09:40:00.000-04:00

Macaroon or Macaron, tomato, tamato.... Light, crunchy, sweet and chewy are these lovely little French gems the next big thing?... Bigger than the cupcake?

French Inspired Bridal Shower

I love Macarons

Classic Wedding

Sugary Sweet Love

As a Color Trend?!

Devil in an Apron Parisian Macarons

Macaroons Stack the Deck in San Fran

Rose And Basil Dark Chocolate Macarons

Try Stir fry!

2010-06-13T21:48:00.001-04:00

I love stir frying. It is super easy, quick and healthful. Stir frying is simply a cooking technique like baking or sauteing. It is the act of cooking over a high heat stirring continuously. Forget about the traditional Asian ingredients, almost anything can be stir fried. I use a basic combination of 3 part veggies to one part protein. It can be served straight up or over rice, pasta or any other grain.

Italian Stir fry

1 bunch of basil

1/2 c broccoli, cut into bite size pieces

1/2 c zucchini, cut into bite size pieces

1/2 c bell pepper, cut into bite size pieces

1/2 c sweet/spicy italian sausage, cut into bite size pieces

1/2 c tomato sauce

1-2 cloves of garlic, minced

1 lb pasta or rice

olive oil

salt/pepper to taste

parmesan cheese

Heat up wok with 2 TBSP of olive oil on high heat. Add sausage and cook for about 3-5 min stirring constantly and remove from wok. Add broccoli and bell pepper cook for a minute then add zucchini, garlic and salt/pepper to taste cook for another 3-6 minutes until desired tenderness. Add sausage cooked sausage, basil and tomato sauce cook for another minute. Serve over pasta or rice with parmesan cheese.

Serves 4

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Southwestern Stir Fry

1 bunch of cilantro

1/2 c black beans

1/2 c bell pepper, cut into bite size pieces

1/2 c onion, cut into bite size pieces

1/2 c corn

1/2 salsa

1 jalapeno, minced

1 clove garlic, minced

1 tsp cumin

2 c cooked rice

1/2 c cheddar cheese

olive oil

salt/pepper

Heat up wok with 2 TBSP of olive oil on high heat. Add bell peppers, onion and cook for one minute. Add corn, black beans, cumin, jalapeno, garlic and salt/pepper to taste cook for another 5 minutes. Turn of heat, add salsa and cilantro. Serve over rice with cheddar cheese.

Serves 4
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I hope these recipes get your creative juices flowing. What is your favorite stir fry combo?

Kale Chips

2010-06-01T21:50:00.002-04:00

A super easy and healthful snack.

1 bunch of kale, washed and dried

salt/pepper to taste

extra virgin olive oil

Pre-heat the oven to 350. Trim the kale and place on sheet pan in a single layer. drizzle with olive oil, salt and pepper bake for 15-30 min till dry and crispy. serve immediately.

Tofu Two Ways

2010-05-29T12:28:00.001-04:00

Basic Tofu Recipe Two Ways

This basic recipe can be transformed into almost anything. The tofu can be baked parmesan style, dipped in ketchup as a nugget or added to a salad instead of chicken. Disregard your preconceived notions about tofu and give this recipe a try. It is sure to be a crowd pleaser.

2 packages of firm tofu
1/2 c italian salad dressing
2 tbsp hot sauce
2 garlic cloves, chopped
2 tbsp poultry seasoning
olive oil
salt/pepper
3 eggs
1 c flour
2 c bread crumbs

Slice tofu into uniform pieces. Depending on what you are using it for you can slice it as big, small or in any shape. For serving as tofu nuggets i would slice similar to the picture. If making a tofu cutlet I would slice each brick horizontally in half for a large flat piece. If adding to a salad or pasta i would cut the nuggets in half or in thirds to make bite size pieces.

Once sliced uniformly lay out onto a paper towel lined sheet pan. Cover with more paper towel, another sheet pan and some large cans or something heavy, let sit for 15-30 minutes depending on the size of the tofu pieces.

While the tofu is draining mix the chopped garlic, italian dressing, hot sauce and salt and pepper in a shallow flat dish. Once the tofu is drained add to the marinade and toss gently to coat. Let marinate for 30 minutes.
Now comes the two ways part. One way to finish is by breading and baking. This will make a traditional tofu nugget. One year old and mother approved. Simply serve with some ketchup, BBQ sauce or honey mustard. This is a great alternative to chicken nuggets. The other finishing technique is pan frying. Cooking in the pan will give the tofu a nice crust on the outside with out the breading.

While the tofu is marinating pre-heat the oven to 400 degrees and set up breading stations. To get a nice crust I like the basic flour, egg, bread crumb breading. Once tofu has marinated wipe off excess marinade and add to the flour. Divide the tofu in half and continue the breading process with one half and place on a sheet pan coated in olive oil. Once the tofu is all on the sheet pan bake for 30-40 min flipping half way through till golden brown. While the tofu is baking coat a large frying pan with olive oil and heat on medium heat. Shake off excess flour from the remaining tofu and add to pan in a single layer. Cook on each side for 10-15 min or until golden brown.

Serves 4

CASA MONO

2010-05-23T14:30:00.000-04:00

Casa Mono

It was definitely a great experience. Casa Mono is very small maybe seating 40 people. There were about eight tables and bar seating. The staff was attentive and knowledgeable about the menu. The extensive wine menu, about 30 pages, was a little overwhelming for me and seemed to be a challenge for our waiter as well. There were bottles ranging from 30 to 4000 dollars and everything in between.

The beautifully cured ham that sat proudly in the window. We did not try it, next time, but it was explained that it was similar to Prosciutto but cured at least a minimum of six months longer than any prosciutto giving it a handsome price tag and I can only imagine a salty and concentrated pork flavor.

Pumpkin and Goat Cheese Croquetas - They were very light and melted in your mouth. The fried sage could have been its own dish, but it complimented the pumpkin perfectly.

Mixed Beets with Opal Basil and Salted Granola - We all know how I have a new found love for beets well this was amazing. The yogurt sauce brought all of the flavors together while the soft, sweet beets played off the salty crunch of the granola with the savory bite from the opal basil.

Foie Gras with Cinco Cebollas - Ooooh this was a good one. Very rich but nicely balanced The five onions were green, pickled ramps, red onion and some kind of fried onion... hummm I'm missing one... I'm not sure but it was very good.

Chorizo with Spring Beans and Aged Manchego - The Chorizo is made in house from the Whole Hudson Valley Pig the Chef Sasso butchers, cures and make other pork dishes with. There was a good balance of flavors with the lightly dressed beans with the mild flavored Chorizo. The fresh Chorizo was slightly gamier that I prefer but it was seasoned excellently.

Mono Sundae - Plum Brandy Ice cream with Arrope and Almonds. I liked it. Who thinks of plum ice cream as a good idea? Not me, but surprisingly it works. The Arrope, or grape syrup, enhanced the pluminess while the paprika coated chopped almonds cut through the sweetness with a smokey, savory almond twist.

Kicked Up Tabbouleh

2010-05-22T12:15:00.002-04:00

Kicked Up Tabbouleh
This great summer salad gets a kick from the salty feta and a little bite from jalapeno pepper. It is great served with grilled chicken or shrimp, but this easy salad with its hearty feta can stand alone as a light lunch.

2 c cooked bulgur wheat
1 bunch parsley
1 large lemon, zested and juiced
1/4 lb feta, crumbled
1 pt grape tomatoes, quartered
1/2 english cucumber, med dice
1 bunch green onion, chopped
1/4 c extra virgin olive oil
1 small jalapeno pepper, chopped finely
salt/pepper to taste

Combine all ingredients and adjust with salt and pepper to taste. Serve room temperature. Serves 4

Keftedes on a Warm Greek Pasta Salad

2010-05-21T20:07:00.001-04:00

Keftedes on a Warm Greek Pasta Salad

For Keftades:
1 lb ground chicken or turkey

1 egg

1/4 c bread crumbs

1/4 c onions, finely chopped

1 sm clove garlic, grated

1/2 tsp cinnamon

1 tsp oregano

1 tsp mint

salt/pepper to taste

2 tbsp olive oil

For Pasta Salad:

1/2 lbs short cut pasta

2 lbs spinach, washed and dried

2 cloves of garlic, grated

2 c tomato, large dice or grape tomatoes halved

1/4 lb of mixed olives, pitted and roughly chopped

1/4 lb feta crumbled

Turn large pot of water on to boil. Mix all Keftede ingredients. Heat non-stick pan with olive oil on medium. Add rounded tablespoon meatball to pan. (should make about 12 meatballs, 3 per person.) Cook on medium heat till browned all all sided and cooked through, 10-15 min. Place on plate with paper towel and cover to keep warm. Add spinach, garlic and a couple of tablespoons of water to wilt. Cook on medium heat till desired doneness. Add pasta to boiling water and cook according to package. While pasta is cooking divide the spinach between four plates. Drain pasta and toss in a tablespoon of olive oil. Divide pasta between the plates and top with tomatoes, olives, keftedes and crumble feta on top.

Serves 4

GREEK FESTIVAL

2010-05-15T08:40:00.000-04:00

It was great! I went last night. Great, inexpensive food and liquor. The traditional Greek folk dancing children were super cute too. Check out the website and print out a free admission for two coupon.

We sat inside the auditorium where there were large family style table set up and the food was around the perimeter cafeteria style. Everyone was super friendly and happy to share their culture to outsiders. Oh and did I mention the cute little old Greek ladies serving food.

I had a gyro and shared a mezathakia platter. It was ALL delicious. A couple of glasses of wine and some loukoumathes and I rolled home, literally. The loukoumathes were totally worth it. Light and chewy pillows of love. No, there are not any picture, sorry. I was so excited to eat I forgot.

If you're planning on going out to eat this weekend I would definitely make this an option. Not a traditional dinner option but the great food, show and family style seating was definitely a good time.

Have a great weekend!

Mother's Day Brunch

2010-05-09T14:33:00.000-04:00

Greek Yogurt with Fresh Berries, Honey, Mint and Granola

The Family! haha kind of.

Breakfast Pizza, the good one! I had a recoverable "incident" with the first one. This one looks a lot better, minus the missing piece. My brother got a little too excited, I was just excited it worked and forgot to take a picture. Then, there was a piece missing.

I served the pizza with a simple arugula salad tossed with lemon and olive oil.

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY to all the mother's out there!

What did everyone else do for Mother's Day?

Breakfast Pizza

2010-05-09T14:27:00.000-04:00

Now, this is not an uncommon pizza but surely tasty any time of the day and fairly simple. There are many variations of this pizza but basically it is the process of baking an egg on top. Underneath can be anything you like.
This is my second pass at the pizza, the first one being disastrous. I now have the tips and tricks to get it done right! I was so excited it worked that I kind of forgot to take a picture and someone, my brother, ate a slice before I remembered.

Breakfast Pizza
1 package of pizza crust (it can either be canned, home-made or the bagged kind usually found by the pre-grated cheeses in the refrigerator section of the super market)
1/2 c skim ricotta
1/2 c skim, low moisture mozzarella
1/4 c parmesan grated
1/4 c total bacon, sausage, ham or any breakfast meat you like
2 tbsp green onion, chopped
4 fresh large eggs, the fresher the better because the whites are less runny
olive oil

Pre-heat oven to 500 or as high as the oven will go but NOT on broil. Stretch out pizza to about 8-10-in diameter. I use my rectangular stoneware but make it fit what ever kind of pizza stone you have. If you do not have a pizza stone a sheet pan with sides will work. Make sure that you oil the stone or sheet pan well before adding the dough.
Add ricotta and smooth into an even layer leaving about 1/2-in around the edges. Add green onion and meat in an even layer. Top with parmesan and mozzarella. Bake for 8-10 minutes.
While that is baking get your eggs cracked into 4 individual dishes with a little salt and pepper. Here comes the tricky part. I learned hard way that my oven was very crooked. I have adjusted it since but when you pull out the oven rack the pan will inevitably dip lower in the front. Having all the eggs prepped will help make this smooth and hopefully painless experience.
Ok, here goes.... after the 8-10 min pull your pizza out. make four little wells in the cheese topping being careful not to break through the crust. Tilting the pizza stone slightly to the back of the oven add each of the eggs to the wells and quickly slide the pizza back into the oven. Bake for another 5-10 min depending on how you like your eggs. I like them runny and eat around the yoke dipping the rest of the pizza into it... YUMMM!
It's really not as hard as it sounds but you will soon discover how lopsided your oven is. If the egg starts to run off the side keep an eye on it. When it just starts to set up take a spatula, you will be thankful you oiled the pan well, and scoop it back onto the pizza. No one will ever know.

The possibilities are endless with egg topped pizza. No meat is required. I just happen to have some bacon to use up. The egg pizza would be great with some fresh ricotta, spinach and garlic with eggs or a spicy red sauce, with some parmesan and italian sausage. It would also work with something very simple like herbed goat cheese, mozzarella, egg then when it comes out of the oven top it with some spicy arugula.

Tell me what creations you come up with and enjoy the good memories spent in the kitchen!

Super Easy Granola Recipe

2010-05-08T23:37:00.002-04:00

Super Easy Granola Bars
Ingredients:
4 c oats (do not use instant)
1/2 c olive oil (I would not use a extra virgin olive oil, use something lighter)
2/3 c honey (depending on how sweet you like it and what kind of honey you're using)
1/4 c flaxseeds
1/2 c total of mix-ins (whatever you like, nuts, dried fruit, coconut, chocolate, etc)

Pre-heat oven to 350 degrees. Mix all ingredients until well coated. Line the bottom of a 9x13-in glass pan with aluminum foil. Spray with cooking spray. Add mixture and firmly press into pan. (a little oil rubbed on your hands or some plastic gloves will help with the pressing into the pan.) Bake for25-30 minutes, until the top just become golden brown. Remove and press the top with a spatula to compress the bars even more. Let cool thoroughly before cutting into bars. To remove from pan pull foil up and peel away from the bars. Yields: 24-32 bars

For granola, Spread mixture on to a greased sheet pan and bake for 25-30 minutes stirring 1/2 way through. Let cool and crumble to desired consistency.

Greek Yogurt with Fresh Berries, Mint, Honey and Granola
17.6 oz container of )% Fage Greek Yogurt
8 strawberries, stems removed/quartered
4 tbsp honey
4 tbsp granola
2 tbsp mint

Divide yogurt between four 8-10 oz ramekins. Add two quartered strawberries to each dish. Drizzle each with 1 tbsp of honey. Sprinkle with 1/2 tbsp of mint and top with 1 tbsp of granola and serve immediately. Yields : 4 servings

I make up a few of these minus the granola and save in the refrigerator for a quick breakfast or snack at work I have great Pampered Chef prep bowls with snug lids or I use my Fit & Fresh 1/2 cup containers. Add granola when you're ready to eat.

If you have a lot of people you can serve family style, doubling or tripling the recipe, pie plate or other large shallow dish. I have great shallow sided, flat bottom pasta bowl that work really well. It's a great quick, cheap surprise for a work pot luck or a party. Simple, health, inexpensive and packed full of flavor.
ENJOY!

The Write Bite - Spring Harvest Cooking Class

2010-05-02T11:58:00.001-04:00

It was a culinary cornucopia. I learn and tasted so many new thing this weekend. I occasionally take recreational classes at the Institute of Culinary Education in NYC. On Thursday; evening I took a Spring Harvest class. It was focused on local seasonal resources forming a fresh, healthful meal. I love the idea eating seasonally and supporting the local farmers.
I do find it a little challenged monetarily sometimes the small local growers are not the cheapest, but I'm working on sacrificing quantity for quality. Also getting to know the growers or being you're own grower helps. Or if you are not a green thumb having friends that are helps!
Back to class, this was perhaps my favorite class thus far. Not only did I get to experience some great new foods but Chef Sasso was amazing. His unbridled enthusiasm and passion for food was prevalent from the first words that came out if his mouth. (He wasn't bad on the eyes either.) I have taken several other classes before and none of the Chefs had shown such passion about food. I loved that he challenged us to sample the lardo on a piece of bread. Then, got the idea of adding some arugula, chili flakes and a touch of lemon. Lardo is basically cured pig fat that has been sliced thin. It is considered a salume and can be eat as such or added to a dish. We used it to top our asparagus salad with warm poached eggs. It really just melts in your mouth. I brought some home to serve as an app for my brothers birthday dinner later in the month. After all, he did get my the ICE gift certificates for Christmas. Love is giving the gift of cured pork fat!
Unfortunately, we didn't get to have the shad roe. I was most looking forward to trying that, but there were so many other wonderfully unique creations. I think the other classes I had taken were more traditional in the sense that they were teaching cultures and techniques where Spring Harvest was my favorite because opened my eyes up to completely new flavors and while honestly teaching me new techniques. It was a great combination of exciting new foods and life long techniques. Ok, my farmers market fillets fish to order, I'm lucky, but I learned how to fillet a fluke. I would love to go fishing and show off my new skills right on the boat. Wouldn't that be hot to see me filleting fresh fish on the open sea! haha. The best part about filleting the fluke was eating it as we were doing it. Sasso encouraged us to taste the fish sashimi style, none of the condiments needed. The fish was super fresh and delicious, such good energy in the room, so exciting.
Silly, but one of my arch enemies... the poached egg! I love them and order them out all the time but the daunting task of making them at home has always baffled and challenged my culinary skills. It is an egg braised in water till the whites are set and the yoke is runny. So simplistic, elegant and delicious yet challengingly impossible. Well, not any more. Who's coming over for poached eggs?! I love it. I made them this morning. Two for me and one for Frankie, yes my dog is spoiled. All you have to do is place some plastic wrap over a small prep bowl, spray with cooking spray, the pampered chef Kitchen Spritzer is perfect for this, crack the egg into the bowl, salt, another spritz of oil and gather all the sides and tie the top in a knot. Once you have all your egg bundles ready. Start a pot of water and grab a bowl to make an ice bath. Boil your egg bundles for about 5-6 min depending on how you like your eggs done. I'm a 5 minute girl. Immediately remove them from the boiling water and put into the ice bath or serve. They will last in the fridge for about a week so make extra for a quick special mid week breakfast treat. How easy and foolproof is that, brilliant!

Out of all the yummy food we ate like dandelion, fresh ricotta and pork belly with honey and citrus segments and monkfish medallions with creamed spinach and morels my favorite dish of the evening was curried beets and carrots with a lime coriander yogurt. It was a beautifully unique, fresh and inspiring dish. I really woke up and surprised my palette with the contrasting sweet, sour and savory flavors. The sweet beets and carrots were delicately perfumed with the curry while the sour lime infused yogurt cut the sweetness balancing out the dish to perfection. I was put off by the whole coriander seeds at first. They are rather hard and crunchy but in true foodie form they grew on me. I have over come the texture to realized the immense burst of flavor they provided when you crunch into them.
Growing up with funky pickled beet and not knowing any better I am a recent convert to the beet craze. If you like Indian food this is definitely a great mild intro to the flavors of beets. I'm sure this is illegal but I am going to share the recipe courtesy of the Institute of Culinary Education and chef Anthony Sasso of Casa Mono.
I am planning a trip to Casa Mono on Saturday May 22nd if anyone wants to come along. Maybe chef Sasso will whip us up something special.

What is your favorite spring time dish?

___________

This salad would make a great side to chicken, steak or even fish. It would also be great served as a small plate or as a light lunch served on top of a bed of spicy arugula.

Curried Beets and Carrots with Lime Coriander Yogurt
serves 4
2-3 carrots, peeled
3 med/large beets (red, pink, yellow)
2 small shallots, peeled and sliced thinly
2 sprigs of thyme
1 TBSP of curry powder
2 limes
12 oz strained greek yogurt
1/2 TBSP of whole corianders seeds
1/2 bunch of mint
1/2 bunch of cilantro, picked

Bring a large pot of water, big enough to submerge the beets in, to a boil with a few handfuls of salt and the tyme. Add the beet and cook until tender or when you stick a paring knife in it barely starts to slide off the knife. Similar to a potato. Remove from liquid, peel and set aside. If the beets are perfectly cooked you can take an old, it will stain, cotton side towel (or i used paper towels) and rub the warm beets the skin should peel right off.
In the same water blanch the carrots for 4-5 min or just until tender. do not over cook.
Add the zest and juice of the limes, chopped mint, coriander seeds and salt/pepper to taste to the yogurt.
Dice the cooled beets and carrots uniformly. I like them just bite size maybe about a 1-2-in dice. Toss with the curry powder and salt/pepper to taste.
To serve, spread the yogurt onto to bottom of a serving plate. Mound the beet and carrot mixture in the center and sprinkle the cilantro on top.
ENJOY!

MADdash 5k Run/Walk

2010-04-23T11:44:00.001-04:00

MADdash 5k Run/Walk
May 1, 2010

Follow This Link to visit my personal web page and help me in my efforts to support Madeline L. Loftus Memorial Scholarship Fund

Madeline Linn Loftus was 24 years old when she was taken from us in the tragic crash of Continental Flight 3407 in Buffalo, NY.

A devoted daughter, granddaughter, sister and friend, Maddy was always ready to share her charming wit and infectious smile. She was a beautiful, genuine young woman with a truly magnetic personality – the kind of person who, after meeting her, you remember forever. It’s a testament to her compassionate soul and strength of character that she was able to touch so many lives in such a short time.

Maddy was always active, but her true passion was hockey. She broke down barriers and became the first female on her high school’s hockey team, later going on to play for Buffalo State College in New York and St. Mary’s University in Minnesota. While at St. Mary’s, she helped found the Cardinal Athletic Council to represent student athletes and provide services to the community, and it is in this spirit that the Maddy Loftus Memorial Scholarship Fund was created.

With the MADdash 5k, we hope to create an event that will honor her enduring spirit and serve as an uplifting salute to someone who unquestionably lived her life to the fullest.

Summer Project

2010-04-22T12:38:00.001-04:00

The date is set... MAY 31! Memorial day weekend marks the beginning of summer for most. For me it will mark the beginning of my summer project. I'm pulling the plug. Turning off the TV. Disconnecting the cable.
I love me some good trashy tv, the faker the better for me... gossip girl, melrose place (round one and the new rendition,) grey's, desperate housewives, anything food network or HGTV.... the list goes on and on. My DVR box is ready to bust.
There are so many things I want to do. I have a list of projects, sites to see, new foods to try and I'm going to learn how to read again. Similar to church I some how got it set into my head that reading was a chore and who likes doing chores. Maybe I will try church again... who knows! haha... It is going to be a fun filled summer full of adventures and definitely some good reading. I have a book list and movies and so much to do.

Stay tuned! (hehe)

What is one thing that you don't think you could ever give up?

The Write Bite - Tofu

2010-04-21T20:14:00.001-04:00

This is by no means a foreign food to me but I decided to give tofu a little credit. Tofu is versatile, budget friendly and a super good protein source. Firm tofu (3.5 oz) has about 8.1 g of protein/4.8 g of fat and is only 94 calories. Oh and did I mention tofu is cholesterol-free.

I get my firm tofu at the farmers market the refrigerated section for $1.29/package or two bricks. When mixed with veggies, noodles or rice one package make two servings or sometimes I just marinated, saute and gobble up the whole thing. That's about 65 cents per serving of clean, unadulterated vegetable protein.

There are three main types of tofu –
Silken/soft, is great for making dips or adding to smoothies for that protein boost. It is also great for lightening some heavier things like mayonnaise and soft cheeses.
firm, is kind of the "general, all purpose" tofu. It is great for sauteing and stir frying. It will get a nice crust on the outside while maintaining a cream texture on the inside.
extra firm, is great for crumbling and really has a meaty texture.

The firmer the tofu the more concentrated the protein.

I love to cook it simply in a stir fry, chop it up with a little cumin and chili powered and serve in a tortilla, breakfast, lunch, dinner or dessert tofu can do it all.

What is your favorite tofu dish?

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Tofu Parmesan
Serves 2
1 package of firm tofu
1 jar of your favorite sauce or about 2-3 cups depending on how saucy you like things.
1/2 cup skim mozzarella
1/4 cup parmesan
5-6 leaves of basil
1/3 lb whole wheat pasta
1 clove of garlic
salt/pepper
extra virgin olive oil

Remove the tofu from the package slice into 1/4-1/2-in slices. Lay on a paper towel to drain. While the tofu is draining smash the garlic and add it to a medium/large non-stick skillet with 2 TBSP of olive oil and let warm on medium. Salt and pepper the tofu. Once the oil is warm, remove the garlic and add the tofu to pan in a single layer, seasoned sided down. (Be careful ,if you haven't gotten enough water off it might spit.) Season other side. Let cook on each sided about 5 min or until golden brown on each side. While the tofu is cooking preheat the oven to 375 degrees and start your pasta water. In a 9x9-in pan add 1/2 cup of the tomato sauce. Once the tofu is done browning add it in a single layer to the pan. Top with the parmesan cheese and then with another cup of the tomato sauce. Sprinkle the mozzarella on top and bake in the oven for 10-20 min or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Finish with the chopped basil. Serve over the whole wheat pasta and remaining sauce. ENJOY!

*Tofu Facts

The Perfect Sunday Afternoon

2010-04-12T12:09:00.005-04:00

The Tourne/Cafe Metro, Denville, NJ

The views were nice and apparently I like to climb things. Poor Frankie had to climb things too. Well, kind of. Well, not really he was just placed there.

Cafe Metro was a fun time. The food was great and Frankie was even allowed to join us. I love the warm weather it make owning a dog much more fun. He loves people and watching but we are working on the barking. I have to imagine that it is frustrating for him. He barks at people as if he is talking to them. I'm sure he has lots to say. He's a smart dog.

(Fresh calamari lightly sauteed with extra virgin olive oil, roasted and hot peppers, kalamata olives, garlic, lemon, fresh herbs, and balsamic vinegar)

We started with the Summer Wind Calamari. It was very spicy but we were very hungry and ate it all. The calamari was perfectly cooked. Maybe slightly over seasoned but the heat kind of numbed that out.

I ordered the Marinated Grilled Tofu and Jessica had the Grilled Chicken and Eggplant we decided to share.

(Marinated Grilled Tofu topped with grilled zucchini, sundried tomatoes, marinara, and regular or soy mozzarella cheese, served with a side of pasta)

(Grilled chicken breast topped with grilled eggplant, roasted peppers, marinara, and mozzarella cheese, served with a side of pasta)

We finished with a piece of vegan chocolate raspberry cake. It was surprisingly dense, chocolaty goodness. Over all another really nice weekend with good food, trails and friends.

Ladibug32

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Try Stir fry!

Kale Chips

Tofu Two Ways

CASA MONO

Kicked Up Tabbouleh

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GREEK FESTIVAL

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Breakfast Pizza

Super Easy Granola Recipe

The Write Bite - Spring Harvest Cooking Class

MADdash 5k Run/Walk

MADdash 5k Run/Walk May 1, 2010

Summer Project

The Write Bite - Tofu

The Perfect Sunday Afternoon

MADdash 5k Run/Walk
May 1, 2010