NYC Cooks

Shrimp & Farm Fresh Vegetable Stir Fry, Todd English / HSN Green Pan Review

2013-04-25T17:07:00.000-04:00

Hi Friends! Today I'm killing 2 birds with 1 stone by reviewing the Todd English Hard Anodized by Greenpan while discussing my latest farm fresh recipe. Talk about a rush hour meal this dish was done in 10 minutes (I chop fast) and partly becuase my Greenpan cooks so well. After fighting traffic I want a quick easy no fuss dinner. Low and behold I have farm fresh zucchini, peppers, onions and garlic in my fridge. A bag of frozen shrimp is a staple in my freezer. I quickly chopped all the veggies and lightly sauteed on high heat in my GreenPan Sautepan. After about 8 minutes I added in the frozen shrimp, put the cover on and in two minutes the meal was done. The zing of the fresh ginger makes all the difference. I had the leftovers for lunch and they certailny taste better the next day.

As for my Todd English Hard Anodized by GreenPan I purchased the pan on a whim from HSN - buy one get one free for $39.99, free shipping and flex pay! How could I say no? The pan is very good, evenly distrubutes heat, sears beautifully for a non-stick pan but (there's always a but) it does not clean as beautifully as shown on tv. Unfortunately, I have some staining in my pan that just refuses to come off- bummer. Otherwise if you can get the same deal I recommend ordering (only if you get the same deal).

Be on Foodnetwork, New Food Blogger Demo Tape

2013-04-24T21:50:00.001-04:00

Here's my demo tape for a casting call on Food Network- whatcha think!

Blackstone Steak House Review

2013-04-24T17:14:00.000-04:00

Hey friends last Sunday my family and I celebrated my mom’s 65^th Birthday at Blackstone Steakhouse, Long Island. We were a party of 7 so I was able to try many of the dishes. Décor of a typical steakhouse but slightly more inviting with a crackling fireplace and dim lighting.

Since we arrived early for our reservation we started with the Sangria at $15 a glass (slightly pricey for sangria). For starters we ordered the lobster macaroni and cheese it was very rich but not the best I’ve ever had. The birthday girl had a lobster bisque which was slightly overpowered by the dubious amounts of heavy cream. I would have liked to see chunks of lobster in the bisque as well.

Now to the Main course, I ordered the daily special Artichoke Crusted Chilean Sea Bass with sauteed broccoli rabe and tomatoes. It was absolutely wonderful, my taste buds were in heaven. The fish was moist and had a beautiful sear. The artichoke and breadcrumb topping was divine, they really should make this dish a staple on the menu. I fancied a few bites of petite filet mignon but I felt it lacked flavor. In my opinion, definitely stick with the fish at this steak house.

Truth be told we ordered just about every dessert on the menu:

Hot fudge banana split sundae served atop a warm brownie with Praline crunch- devilishly delish. Worth every penny and calorie!

Home made donuts topped with white chocolate shavings and raspberry coulis- good but oily. Although I’m really not a donut person so make what you will.

Homemade Canolis- good but nothing I can’t pick up from a local Italian bakery.

The service was great although it did take about 45 minutes for our food to come out. I would certainly go back to Blackstone Steakhouse as it’s a tasteful place to get together but it ain't cheap. Overall my mom enjoyed her 65^th birthday celebration so the evening was hit. Good Job Blackstone Steakhouse. Happy Birthday Mom!

Vegan Chocolate Shortcakes with Vanilla Bean Frosting and Vegan Chocolate Ganache

2013-04-17T16:06:00.003-04:00

One of my favorite clients is vegan. I love preparing fun and fabulous dishes for her exciting events. However this time she threw me a curve ball, the request was for a decadent dessert that had to be chocolate and of course had to be vegan. With the help of vegetable oil, vegan cocoa powder and a bit of vegetable shortening I was able to create my Vegan Chocolate Shortcakes- devilishly delicious and 100% vegan! Who says you can't have you cake and eat it too!

Silent Post for the victims of Boston Marathon

2013-04-16T12:31:00.001-04:00

Peace, Love, Forgiveness and Strength to the city of Boston today and all those affected by by the bombings. May we pray for humanity, wisdom and strength. One nation under God.

Italian Easter Bread- Buona Pasqua

2013-03-28T13:47:00.001-04:00

Easter has and always will be one of my favorite holidays. Growing up we had the best Easter holidays any child could dream of- candy filled baskets, a feast of lasagna, ham, meatballs and endless desserts. The one dish that made the Easter table so festive was the Easter Bread. We didn’t call it Italian Easter Bread because we are Italian so to us it’s just Easter Bread (there’s no other kind). The best part of Easter for us was the Easter Egg Hunt! We looked forward to that hunt all year long. Novelty eggs filled with pocket change and if you were lucky dollar bills! With that, Here is my recipe for Italian Easter Bread, Buona Pasqua!

1 package rapid dry yeast

2 eggs

3/4 cup sugar

1 ½ cups of warm not hot milk – appx 105 degrees

1 tsp salt

4 cup all purpose flour

½ cup of golden rasins

Egg wash- 1 egg plus 2 tablespoons of heavy cream

Add eggs, sugar , salt and yeast to mixer fitted with dough hook

Mix 2 minutes add in milk and raisins

Slowly add in flour, you may need to use more than 4 cups depending on humidity. Knead in machine 7-10 minutes or until dough is no longer sticky.

Add dough to well oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap or dish towel. Put in warm, draft free area to proof, appx 1 hour.

Take dough out punch down and divide into three parts. Roll each part out to form three long ropes. Pinch ropes together at top and braid.
Form a circle and allow to proof 1 hour again
Brush with egg wash

Place dyed eggs into seams of braids and bake at 350 degrees appx 40 minutes or until golden brown.

Ready to Rise

Three Ropes

Braided Bread

Bread Before Rising

After 2nd rising

Ready for Oven

Easter Krispy Rice Treats

2013-03-19T21:56:00.000-04:00

Easter's almost here , one of my favorite holidays! As kids we had the best Easters, egg hunts, candy baskets, easter outfits & more candy! This year I'm paying homage to a whimisical simple treat your kids& the kid in you will love.... Bunny Krispy Treats!

Sausage and Spinach Quiche

2013-03-12T12:06:00.003-04:00

Who doesn't love quiche? An elegant, easy dish perfect for entertaining. My Sausage and Spinach Quiche is a cinch to put together and showstopper on the table. It's just in time for Easter or perfect potluck bring along. Using a ready made pie crust is a serious time saver:
Sausage and Spinach Quiche
5 eggs
1 cup half and half
1/2 cup parmesean cheese
1 cup chopped spinach
3 Italian Sausage Links,
1 cup Shredded Swiss Cheese
1 9 inch pie crust

Preheat oven to 375
Beat cream, eggs and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper
Remove Sausage links from casings and brown in saute pan. Set Aside
Layer Spinach on bottom of pie crust, then add cheese and layer in sausafe.
Pour cream and egg mixture into pie crust and bake for 35 minutes or until set.

Poached Chicken Pasta Salad with Warm Dijon Vinaigrette

2013-03-06T13:00:00.000-05:00

I'm always looking to put new spins on old faves. Tonight I just do not feel like running to the market before I get home. Super Storm Saturn is supposed to hit I'm sure the supermarket is just crazy right now. Since Sandy, New Yorkers really panic when a storm hit and the market and gas stations are the first places they hit to get last minute goods.Instead, I will be scrummaging through my pantries and putting together a meal. When I came up with Poached Chicken and Pasta Salad with Warm Dijon Vinaigrette.
I love making dressings from scratch and my homemade dijon vinaigrette is one to brag about. I like using apple cider vinegar, good quality dijon and Garlic Infused extra virgin olive oil. I whisk together my warm dressing and set aside. Next I poach chicken breasts which I toss with the warm vinaigrette and cooked pasta. Add in a few pantry staples like black olives and chickpeas a little feta cheese for flavor and fresh herbs for good season.

Wenonah Elementary School Fundraiser- Gertrude Hawkins Sale

2013-02-26T16:55:00.001-05:00

Help support Wenonah Elementary School of Lake Grove, NY by placing an order through Gertrude Hawkins. You can help support our students without ever leaving your home by opting to have the goodies delivered directly to your doorstep! Goodies for a good cause!

http://www.gertrudehawkchocolates.com/index.cfm?act=fundraising&cmp_id=10349&mem_id=57531

Valentine's Day Desserts- Chocolate Dipped Rice Krispy Treats

2013-02-13T09:53:00.004-05:00

Here's the perfect Valentine's Day sweet treat for your Valentine. Easy, Sweet and almost too cute to eat- Almost!

Frank & Beans with a Twist

2013-02-09T21:22:00.002-05:00

Well Nemo hit NY last night and I am snowed, cooking up a storm! I was looking for a satisfying belly filling meal when I dreamed up this beauty. I was set to make pasta fagioli but peering into my fridge I saw a pack of hot dogs & knew they were meant to be so much more. My husband loves hot dogs so I always keep a pack on hand and he loves pasta. I conjured up the perfect meal garlic, olive oil, capers, beans & frankfurters. It's a tasty tastebud pleasing meal. Perfect for a snowy day like today

Calorie Saver Coleslaw

2013-02-05T14:33:00.000-05:00

Not sure if you folks know this about me, I don't do creamy. No creamy dressings, no creamy salads no creamy spreads until now. I love using greek yogurt to remake classic creamy faves and today I'm serving up my Calorie Saver Coleslaw. Crispy crunchy coleslaw mix dresses with a creamy ranch dressing. it's fabulous! Only 3 ingredients, non fat greek yougurt, 1 packet of ranch seasoning and 1 bag of coleslaw. Mix ranch seasoning with yogurt, pour over coleslaw, mix and serve! pair wit grilled shrimp for a healthful and satisfying meal!

National Pancake Day

2013-02-05T10:10:00.002-05:00

Serious Sticky Situation

Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies

2013-02-04T13:08:00.000-05:00

I'm tacking the Monday Blues with my Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies. These fudgy flavorful brownies will sure to have you humming your way through this Monday! Follow me on Twitter @chefjendepalma for more great recipe ideas!

Twice Baked Potatoes- Super Bowl Snacks

2013-02-03T15:42:00.000-05:00

Whether you're rooting for the Ravens or 49'ers everyone sure to pick my Twice Baked Potatoes as the MVP. These potatoes are filled with creamy roasted garlic mash potatoes then topped with loads of bacon and cheddar cheese! Like what you see? Email me at couturechefs@yahoo.com for the recipe.

RW Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar- Resorts World Casino

2013-02-03T00:01:00.000-05:00

It's Saturday Night and I'm feeling Right! Trying my Luck at the new Resorts World Casino tonight and all that hard playing worked up an appetite. My brother in law and I decided to stop in for dinner at the RW Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar. Dinner was quite good. I wouldn't say I would make a trip to the casino just for the steakhouse but I would say if I'm at the casino I would stop in at the steakhouse. The plating was pleasant but to be truthful Rob (my brother in law) ordered the surf and turf and we did have to send back the surf, the lobster was so overcooked it could have been mistaken for AstroTurf! The portion sizes are lean.Although,my dessert was fabulous and worth every sinful bite- Chocolate Ganache cake with fresh pistachio ice cream (a must try). I would go back just for dessert. All in all it's been a good Saturday night, the slots were kind to me, the company was great and the dinner was good !

Tuna Tartar- Pretty but not Palatable

Filet Mignon

Garden Salad with Green Goddess Dressing- The Couture Lunchbox

2013-02-01T13:03:00.000-05:00

Everyone has their favorite version of Green Goddess Dressing. Green Goddess dressing is a creamy dressing typically blended with mayonnaise,citrus and fresh herbs. Which to me means nothing but a fat laden monstrosity of a dressing that will not leave you looking anything like a goddess.
My Version, is rich, creamy and loaded with those good for you omega 3's sure to have you gleaming like a goddess. Here's my super simple recipe:
1 avocado
1 cup of Fage non fat plain yogurt
2 tbsp of lemon juice
salt & pepper
Blend and Enjoy

Creamy Fettucine Alfredo

2013-01-31T13:00:00.000-05:00

I'm so excited about the Creamy Fettuccine Alfredo I'm cooking right now I have to post live from my kitchen, so please excuse the photo! My Alfredo sauce is creamy, smooth and buttery with just the right amount of bite from the Parmesan Cheese. I know everyone is looking for an easy Alfredo recipe, add chicken, add shrimp, add veggies- whatever you like! Here it goes:

2 cups heavy cream
1 stick butter
1 cup of parmesan cheese
2 tsp of nutmeg
salt and pepper
1 pound of fettucine cooked.

Add cream and butter to saucepan, reduce 10 minutes or until thick- do not let cream boil!
Add in parmesan cheese, nutmeg, salt & pepper- cook 5 minutes and stir with wire whisk
Toss in cooked pasta and serve!

Easy Oven Roasted Crispy Chicken- 2 Ingredient Dinner

2013-01-31T10:14:00.002-05:00

Looking for the easiest weeknight winner dinner? I promise with Two Ingredients and 1 pan you will have the most amazing stress free, mess free dinner. This recipe is sure to become a staple in your weeknight dinner lineup.Now I give you my Oven Roasted Onion Crusted Crispy Chicken. 1 packet of onion soup mix, 1 pound of chicken legs and thighs and dinner is done. Just sprinkle the soup mix onto the chicken and plop into a 425 degree preheated oven for 45 minutes. Crisp, perfect and super easy. Serve alongside a fresh salad and dinner is done!

Homemade Focaccia Bread

2013-01-24T12:28:00.001-05:00

Simple to spectacular, my culinary point of view. I find the most well received meals are made with the simplest ingredients. The temperature is in the teens today, it is 13 degrees outside. What better reason to stay indoors and get to work in the kitchen. This freezing day is perfect for baking fresh focaccia bread and a big pot of lentil soup to serve alongside it.

Fresh focaccia bread is so simple to make and the possibilities are endless.The recipe is a bit time consuming because the dough has to proof - proofing is when the time it takes for dough to rise. You actually don't have to do anything , the dough just sits there so you can go about your business, it's that easy. I really like adding roasted garlic to my dough mixture it makes for a flavorful note throughout the baked bread. Todays I'm adding balsamic glazed onions and parmesean cheese for toppings. My house already smells amazing and my bread has only been baking for 10 minutes.For a copy of my Homemade Focaccia recipe email me Chef Jen DePalma at couturechefs@yahoo.com

Seafood and Saffron Rice- Easy Potluck Dishes

2013-01-10T09:54:00.001-05:00

Hey folks, I'm finally winding down from the holiday bustle. I want to share with you one of my favorite potluck perfections from the holiday season: Seafood and Saffron Rice. I brought this dish everywhere! The festive flavorful rice is filled with calamari, shrimp, clams and andouille sausage, similar to a paella but half the work. It's potluck perfection

I start by cooking the rice in saffron infused broth. Next, I fry up a quick sofrito of onions, tomato, cilantro and garlic to that I add my seafood top it over the cooked rice and you are done. A quick and easy elegant dish friends and family are sure to love!

Chocolate, Chocolate Chip Cookies- Food Network Recipe Review

2012-11-19T16:33:00.001-05:00

3 days until Thanksgiving, my second favorite holiday (Christmas naturally being #1) . Here I am testing away at recipes so you don't have to. I'm reviewing the Chocolate, Chocolate Chip Cookies from Food Network. The recipe sounded like it would work perfectly but it didn't. I consider myself an expert baker, I followed all the steps but these cookies turned out crispy, more like Frisbees than cookies. The recipe makes a huge batch and I refuse to throw out good food. SO naturally I fixed them, I placed the cookies in an airtight container overnight with a few pieces of white bread. Sure enough the cookies turned out nice and soft the next day. I'm sad to say that even though now they were soft they just lacked good flavor. Oh well back to the drawing board. Do you have a favorite cookie recipe you'd like to share?

Loopy Jello Shots- TGIF

2012-11-09T12:03:00.001-05:00

It's Friday and here's my fave low cal recipe to celebrate- Loopy Jello Shots, I use Three Olives Loopy Vodka and Strawberry sugar free, fat free Jello- top it off with Whip Cream and Cheers!

Pumpkin Soup- Thanksgiving

2012-11-09T09:13:00.000-05:00

NY is a mess. First Hurricane Sandy, then gas shortages and the Nor'easter. It's hard to think of celebrating anything even Holidays right now. The show must go on. I'm posting my favorite Pumpkin Soup recipe, it's great dish to drop off to your local food shelter- I'm sure our friends staying in warming shelters can use a cup of cheer. My Pumpkin Soup is a Thanksgiving staple, it's easy, healthy and cheap to make. If you're on a Weight Watchers this is a 2 point soup!

Jen's Pumpkin Soup
(1) 16oz can of Libby's Pumpkin Puree
4 cups of Low sodium, fat free chicken broth
1 small yellow onion chopped
1 small apple, peeled and diced
2 tsp of organic coconut oil
2 tsp of pumpkin pie spice
2 tbsp of honey

Saute onion and apple in coconut oil
Add in pumpkin and broth- cook 15 minutes
Season with salt, pepper and pumpkin pie spice
Puree in Blender, adjust seasoning - Add in Honey
Top with a spoonful of greek yougurt or low fat sour cream and drizzle more honey to desired taste
Enjoy
* WW Members (Extra Honey and Sour cream will add points)