Category Archives: gluten-free

Leftover Local Turkey, Apple, Potato and Smoked Gouda Salad w/Cranberry Mustard Vinaigrette

04 Thursday Dec 2014

Posted by in chicken, dinner, dressing, gluten-free, lunch, salad, seasonal, Side dish

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DSCN4044Love:

So I might be a bit late on a “leftover” recipe from Thanksgiving but, I figure you can really make this salad anytime using roast chicken, or even some poached eggs. I was even thinking leftover ham from Christmas dinner would work too. Needless to say I have made many variations of this salad over the last couple months but this version just happened to work out perfect this week for lunches using what I had on hand.

I know we are all moving on from Thanksgiving onto Christmas and all the ridiculous cookies that come with, just promise me you’ll eat some salads in between all those cookies. Enjoy!

Food:

Leftover Local Turkey, Apple, Potato and Smoked Gouda Salad w/Cranberry Mustard Vinaigrette makes 6 (could make 8)

1 head romaine lettuce, chopped, rinsed and spun dry

1 head butter leaf lettuce, torn, rinsed and spun dry

1 small container baby arugula

4-6oz leftover local turkey for each salad

3 small-medium local Yukon potatoes, cubed

3 local honey crisp apples, cubed

6-8oz smoked gouda, cubed

Dressing:

2 T. Wicked Wilson Mustard (local)

2 T. leftover cranberry sauce (I used homemade)

3 T. apple cider vinegar

1 T. red wine vinegar

1/2 c. olive oil

salt and pepper

DSCN4030Directions:

1. Start by placing 6 containers with their lids out so they are ready to be filled assembly style. Process the lettuce, chop, tear, rinse and spin dry. Distribute the lettuces evenly between each container, next add the turkey, I split one apple between two salads. Next add the cheese.

DSCN40342. Cook the potatoes: Start by placing a saute pan on the stove over slightly hotter than medium heat, melt 1 T. ghee. Add the potatoes and season well with salt and pepper, toss. Take your time with the potatoes, make sure they brown evenly on all sides so toss often. When browned on each side use a lid that is just big enough to cover the potatoes, turn the heat down just a notch below medium and place the lid over the potatoes and let them steam. Take lid off and toss, place lid back on and steam until cooked through. When the potatoes are cool add them to the salad. This may seem a bit involved but the result is perfect potatoes, I cook mine like this all the time.

DSCN4039DSCN40403. For the dressing: All the vinaigrette ingredients can be measured into a jar with a tight-fitting lid, shake well.

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Spiced Apple Zucchini Muffins (Cupcakes) w/Chai Buttercream Frosting

07 Friday Nov 2014

Posted by in breakfast, dessert, Events, gluten-free, homemade gifts, seasonal

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DSCN4017Food:

Spiced Apple Zucchini Cupcakes (Muffins) w/Chai Butter Cream Frosting
makes 12-16

(In my picture below I didn’t have cupcake liners when I photographed these muffins, I HIGHLY recommend that you use them!)

2 1/3 c. flour (I use a combo of 1 c. buckwheat flour, 1 c. oat or rye flour and 1/3 c. coconut flour)

2 t. baking soda

2 t. cinnamon

1 t. allspice

1 t. nutmeg

1 inch ginger, peeled and grated

½ t. salt

3 local eggs

1 c. local honey

1 c. coconut oil

1 – 1 1/2c. zucchini grated (you could sub carrots)

1 c. apple, grated

1 ½ c. walnuts, toasted and chopped

Directions:

1. Pre heat oven to 350 degrees, line a muffin pan with liners. Sift all the dry ingredients together in a large bowl and set aside.

2. In a small saucepan melt the coconut oil and honey together until just melted, to not over heat or bring to a boil. Remove the mixture from the heat and let cool just a bit, whisk in eggs one at a time.

3. Add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, add the fresh ginger and whisk just to combine.

4. Add the grated zucchini and apples, fold into the mixture. Add the walnuts and fold them in until well blended.

5. Scoop the mixture into the prepared muffin tin and place in the warm oven. Bake for 30-35 or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool.

Chai Butter Cream Frosting

1 c. butter, room temp

¼ c. half and half (I think I used my homemade cashew milk)

2-4 c. powdered sugar (I use less sugar because I like my frosting a little more buttery than sugary, your preference)

½ t. cinnamon and ginger (you can use fresh ginger)

¼ t. cardamom and cloves

pinch of salt

Directions:

1. Using a standing mixer or hand held mixer blend the butter, half and half and spices until mixed.

2. Add the powdered sugar 1 c. at a time until desired frosting consistency is reached.

3. Frost the cupcakes!

DSCN4000DSCN4002DSCN4004DSCN4008 Love:

If you can believe it I still have zucchini from my garden! I thought I had planted a cucumber plant but it ended being a zucchini plant, I was overwhelmed with the abundance that just ONE plant yielded. I now know why people gift those tenacious little buggers and just like everyone else I was scrambling to find something to do with them.

Since I had all that zucchini and apples were starting to show up at my Farmers Market, these muffins where my solution to the seasons changing, utilizing what I had and the need to bake something warm and comforting.

Here’s the real deal, these are a muffin recipe that can be tricked out with butter cream frosting and passed off as a cupcake! Sneaky right? They are perfectly delectable on their own, so much so that my friend is making these for her new bakery. They are perfect with tea or coffee, a co-pilot for your green smoothie, and they are totally gluten-free! Equally as impressive frosted and served to your book club or child’s birthday party. ENJOY!

 

Oat Free Granola- Seasonal Fruit and Local Goat Yogurt Breakfast Parfaits

24 Friday Oct 2014

Posted by in breakfast, dessert, gluten-free, Snack

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DSCN3960Food:

Oat Free Granola makes 7 cups

1 c. each- shelled pistachios, sunflower seeds, raw almonds, raw walnuts, macadamia nuts, raw pumpkin seeds, tart dried cherries (mine are local)

2 t. salt (I use celtic gray salt, use something besides table salt)

2 t. cinnamon

1/2 t. fresh grated nutmeg

1/2 c. local honey

2 T. coconut oilDSCN3991Directions:

1. Pre-heat the oven to 350 degrees. Prepare a large baking/sheet pan by lining it with a piece of parchment paper or a silpat.

2. In a small saucepan melt the coconut oil and honey together, do not boil. Add the salt, cinnamon and nutmeg to this mixture. Set aside to cool just a bit. In a large mixing bowl combine all the nuts and seeds, then pour the honey mixture over the nuts and mix well. Pour the coated nut mixture onto the prepared sheet pan.

3. Place the baking sheet into the oven and bake for 30 mins. Stir the mixture a few times during the baking.

4. Take granola out of the oven and let the nuts cool just a bit and then add your tart dried cherries and mix well. Let cool completely and store in an airtight container.

DSCN3959DSCN3995DSCN3997Seasonal Fruit and  Local Goat Yogurt Parfaits serves 1

3/4 c. local goat yogurt (I use Drake Family Farms)

1 T. chia seeds (whole or ground)

1 T. local honey (Clifford Farms) or pure maple syrup

1/2  local apple, cored and chopped

1/2 local pear, cored and chopped

1/4 c. pomegranate seeds

1/3 c. oat free granola

optional: 1 T. coconut butter, ground flax seeds, bee pollen, nut buttter

Directions:

1. In a tall glass container (preferably with a lid for easy transport) start by pouring the yogurt into the bottom of container, next add the chia seeds and honey or maple syrup, stir to combine.

2. Next add your fruit and then top with the oat free granola and coconut butter if using. Store in the fridge to take to work or EAT immediately! Do it all over again tomorrow.

DSCN3978DSCN3979DSCN3981DSCN3977DSCN3983Love:

This part of my blog is the hardest for me! Sometimes I wonder, does anyone even care? Aren’t most of you just here for the food anyways? I don’t want to ramble on about nothing just to fill space.

Blogging is a funny thing, its takes quite a lot of time to stage, cook, photograph and then blog the whole recipe process. This is not my job, I don’t get paid, I do it because I want to share the food and recipes I love using local seasonal ingredients.

I consider myself a creative person but creatively I have been in a slump! This explains why I was MIA all summer. I was probably harder on myself than anyone else for being missing in action but it is important for me to work from an organic place and share what comes naturally. Being able to share all that happens in my kitchen would be impossible!

This oat free granola is inspired by my friend Vanessa, it’s easy to throw together using your favorite nuts and dried fruit. I’m partial to the local tart dried cherries I find at the farmers market from Woodyatt Cherry Farm, but I have used dates as well. While you are at the farmers market pick up apples, pears and Drake Family Goat Yogurt, breakfast will be a breeze. Make sure and stock up on the tart dried cherries so you’ll have them all winter to make this yummy granola. ENJOY!

 

Cherry, Quinoa, Goat Cheese Salad w/Honey Wine Shallot Mustard Vinaigrette

27 Friday Jun 2014

Posted by in dressing, gluten-free, lunch, quinoa, salad, seasonal

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DSCN3902Food:

Cherry, Quinoa, Goat Cheese Salads w/Honey Wine Shallot Mustard Vinaigrette serves 2

For the salad:

1/2 c. cherries, cut in half and remove pit, set aside

4 c. mixed baby greens, washed and spun dry, set aside

1/2 c. dry quinoa, soaked overnight, drained and rinse, cooked and cooled- set aside (if I have soaked my quinoa I use a little less water when I cook it, so for this I use 3/4c. water to my 1/2c. soaked quinoa and cooked it over medium heat, uncovered for 15 mins)

8 tsp. local goat cheese (I use Drake Family Farms), roll each tsp. of goat cheese into little balls and set aside

2 T. chopped fresh parsley

1/2 c. walnuts, toasted in a dry saute pan, chopped, set aside

For the dressing:

1 shallot, peeled and finely chopped

2 T. honey wine vinegar (local)

1 T. Wilson’s Wicked Mustard (local)

1 T. olive oil

salt and pepper, season to taste

-Place all of the dressing ingredients in a small jar with a lid and shake to mix. Store in the fridge until ready use.

Directions:

1. Mix the chopped walnuts and parsley together, once you have formed  your goat cheese balls roll them in the walnut and parsley mixture. Press lightly to make sure the walnuts and parsley stick to the cheese, save any remaining nut mixture and scatter over the salads or use for something else. Set aside.

2. Assemble your salads- scatter your greens between two plates, season your greens with a little salt and pepper. Next divide the cooked, cooled quinoa between the two salads (you don’t have to use all of it), then add your halved cherries and goat cheese balls. Use the rest of the nut mixture if you want.

3. Pour on the dressing and EAT!

DSCN3890DSCN3892DSCN3895DSCN3897DSCN3896Love:

It’s cherry season y’all and almost every ingredient for this salad can be found at our local Downtown SLC Farmers Market, need I say more?!! Get out there and eat the bounty. Next week I’ll have another recipe using local tart dried cherries. Until then… ENJOY!

DSCN3901

 

Honey Sriracha

10 Tuesday Jun 2014

Posted by in appetizer, dips, DIY, dressing, gluten-free, homemade gifts

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DSCN3853Food:

Honey Sriracha– makes about 2 ½ c.

Inspired and Adapted from bon appétit

1 lb Fresno chile (red jalapeno)

3 garlic cloves

1 T. real salt

1/4c. apple cider vinegar

1/4c. fresh lime juice

2 tsp. local honey

Plus 1/2c. local honey

Directions:

1. Pulse chilies, garlic, and salt in the food processor to a fine paste. Transfer to a half pint mason jar, cover with cheesecloth and secure with a rubber band. Let sit at room temperature at least 2 days (I think mine sat out for 3 or 4!)

2. Transfer chile mixture to the blender, add fresh lime juice, apple cider vinegar and 2 tsp. local honey, blend until smooth. Transfer to a clean pint Mason jar and cover with cheesecloth again, let sit at room temp for 1-2 more days. After those two days, add remaining 1/2c. local honey. Mix well and store the fridge for at least a day. Eat!

DSCN3827DSCN3832DSCN3837DSCN3840Nutrition:

Usually during the summer time I take a break from this section of my blog, mainly so I can spend more time with friends in the sunshine. I hope you are doing the same.

Love:

I’ve been struggling between two areas of my life lately, my work life and my home life. Last year I worked my toosh off and my sweet house, my sweet husband and my well-being got no love. So this year I vowed to work a little less and spend a little more time on my personal space, but as you know things don’t always go as planned. The first part of this year was a mixed bag of stuff, some good -10 year anniversary trip, having friends in town, exciting work projects, some not so good- very sick (expensive) kitty and losing my wonderful grandpa (still can’t fully grasp this). I know we all have stuff, but February, March and April kicked my butt and here we are half way through the year!

I needed a break. So needless to say I took no extra jobs or worked on my blog last month but that doesn’t mean I wasn’t still playing in the kitchen (and around the house!).

I’m a sucker for spicy food and the balance of sweet and spicy in this Honey Sriracha is out of this world! There is nothing like homemade hot sauce, the flavor is so fresh and this recipe is ridiculously easy. I have served it on eggs, over rice and veggies and like pictured above on apples/cheese and crackers, holy yum!

In order to self preserve and spend more time with my sweetie working on our love shack my post might be a little farther in between, they might. I’m planning on only attending the farmers market every other week (trust me this will be hard for me) this season and investing in a CSA with BUG Farms. Some times taking a step back and slowing down can be a good thing. ENJOY!

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Gluten-Free Coconut Cornbread Trifles w/ Fresh Starwberries, Lemon Curd and Coconut Whip Cream

09 Friday May 2014

Posted by in cake, dessert, gluten-free

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Processed with VSCOcam with f2 presetFood:

Gluten-Free Coconut Cornbread Trifles w/ Fresh Strawberries, Lemon Curd and Coconut Whip Cream serves 16

Coconut Cornbread muffins:

1 ½ c. corn flour

½ c. coconut flour

1/3 c. unsweetened coconut flakes

½ c. local honey

½ tsp. xantham gum (not vital)

1 T. baking powder

½ tsp. salt

1/3 c. coconut oil

¼ c. ghee (clarified butter)

2 local eggs

½ c. creamed coconut

7 oz. canned coconut milk, placed in fridge overnight (plus two cans of coconut milk, placed in the fridge as well= 3 cans total)

½ tsp. coconut extract

Directions:

Side note: When removing the coconut milk from the can place the coconut fat that has surfaces to the top in a separate bowl and just use the liquid. Place the unused solid coconut fat back into the fridge for making vanilla the coconut cream for this dessert.

1.  Pre-heat the oven to 350 degrees, line sixteen cupcake tins. In a large bowl sift together the corn flour, coconut flour, xantham gum, baking powder, and salt. Next add coconut flakes. Set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan over low heat mix together honey, coconut oil, ghee, creamed coconut and coconut milk until smooth, DO NOT LET MIXTURE BOIL. Take mixture off the heat and let cool. Next whisk in the 2 eggs and coconut extract. Combine the wet and dry mixture, stirring just to combine. Fill each cupcake tin with an even amount of the batter. Bake for 8-12 mins or until a toothpick inserted in the middle of one of the cupcakes comes out clean. Let cool.

Lemon Curd:
Adapted from Alton Brown

5 local egg yolks
1 cup sugar (I used local honey)
4 organic lemons, zest and juiced
1 stick butter, cut into pats and chilled (I used ghee)

Directions:

1. Add enough water to a medium saucepan to come up about 1-inch on the side. Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat. Meanwhile, combine egg yolks and sugar in a medium size metal bowl and whisk until smooth, about 1 minute. Measure citrus juice and if needed, add enough cold water to reach 1/3 cup. Add juice and zest to egg mixture and whisk smooth. Once water reaches a simmer, reduce heat to low and place bowl on top of saucepan. (Bowl should be large enough to fit on top of saucepan without touching the water.)
2. Whisk until thickened, approximately 8 minutes, or until mixture is light yellow and coats the back of a spoon. Remove promptly from heat and stir in butter a piece at a time, allowing each addition to melt before adding the next. Remove to a clean container and cover by laying a layer of plastic wrap directly on the surface of the curd. Refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.

Fresh strawberries:

4 lbs fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1 c. fresh mint, chopped
2-4 T. raw sugar
2-4 T. honey wine vinegar local, use any sweet vinegar you have)
Pinch of salt

Directions:

1. Place the slices strawberries and mint in a medium-sized bowl. Sprinkle over 2 T. sugar and 2 T. honey wine vinegar to start. Toss. Let sit until juice has started to form on the bottom of the bowl. If you want more juice use the other 2 T. of the sugar and vinegar. Set aside.

Vanilla Coconut Cream:

Reserved coconut fat from 3 cans of coconut milk
1 fresh vanilla bean, scraped (or 1 tsp. vanilla extract)
2- 4 T. pure maple syrup or honey
Pinch of salt

Directions:

Whip all the ingredients together using a standing mixer or hand mixer. Taste for desired sweetness. Place back in the fridge until ready to use.

Putting it all together:

1. In a half pint mason jar, start by cutting a muffin in halves length wise, crumble one half into the bottom of the jar. Next add a spoonful of the strawberries and a little juice, next add a spoonful of the lemon curd, next a layer of coconut cream. Then crumble the rest of the muffin over the already layered ingredients and layer one more time ending with the coconut cream. Garnish with a slice of strawberry. EAT!

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888Love:

This recipe was the star of the show last month, I made it three times! The first attempt was to test my idea and have my husband and girlfriends try it and give me some honest feedback, trust me they were happy to lend their taste buds and gave me really good info going forward. The second time making this was for a Welcoming Dinner at a photography retreat hosted by the lovely Brooke Davis of Blush Photography, it was a total hit. The third and final making of this dessert was at my seasonal cooking class for Slow Food Utah and Wasatch Community Gardens at Harmon’s City Creek, my students loved it! Phew, I’m tired just typing all of this! My students added that blueberries would be a great swap for the strawberries and would pair nicely with the lemon curd (why didn’t I think of this?!). You would think I would have had time to photograph the whole process, but sadly I didn’t. Between my day job, teaching classes and personal chef work it was all business last month, so I am hoping you give me a pass and just enjoy this recipe!

This dessert is more involved than most of my recipes but TOTALLY worth it, I worked really hard to get this just right!

Here are some tips and tricks:

1. The lemon curd can be made up to two weeks ahead.

2. The coconut cornbread muffins can be made a day ahead.

3. Make sure to buy FULL FAT canned coconut milk, and don’t forget to store it in the fridge.

4. Buy organic strawberries and let that be the last step before putting these trifles together.

5. Rhubarb curd would also be delicious and swapping blueberries for strawberries would be genius. Thanks Deb Mace for the idea!

I had so much making this dessert (three times!), but even more fun watching everyone else enjoy it. Good luck, and let me know if you attempt to make this, ENJOY!

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White Girl Kimchi

24 Thursday Apr 2014

Posted by in appetizer, DIY, gluten-free, Side dish

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DSCN3806Food:

Disclaimer- the title of this post is not intended to offend or be disrespectful.

White Girl Kimchi made 1 quart & 1 pint

2-2 1/2 lb head of cabbage, I used Napa cabbage

1 bunch scallions, ends trimmed, cut into 3/4 inch pieces

1 T. chopped garlic

1 T. grated ginger

3 T. korean chili

3 T. korean fish sauce

1 T. plus 2 tsp. local honey

coarse sea salt

DSCN3785Directions:

1. Start by placing two colanders in your sink. Next cut the cabbage in half, cut out the core and then cut the cabbage into 1 inch chunks. Divide the cabbage between the two colanders.

2. Sprinkle 1 T. of coarse sea salt over each colander filled with cabbage. Toss the cabbage with your hands to disperse the salt. Let the cabbage sit for thirty minutes.

DSCN37863. The cabbage should be wilted and reduced in volume. Place the cabbage in a bowl and fill with cold water, swish the cabbage around in the cold water. Drain and rinse two more times (taste it, it should taste seasoned but not overly salty) . Drain well and set aside.

DSCN37954. In a large bowl mix together the garlic, ginger, scallions, korean chili, korean fish sauce and the honey.

DSCN3788DSCN3792DSCN37935. GENTLY squeeze the cabbage to drain, just a little! Add the drained seasoned cabbage to the ginger/chili bowl and toss well to coat all of the cabbage (taste it and adjust seasoning). Pack the cabbage into glass mason jars being sure to leave a little head room, place a tight-fitting lid on the jar. Place the jars in a cool dark place, I place mine in the cabinet above my fridge. Let the kimchi sit for about three days and then place it in the fridge. I like to unscrew the lids and push the kimchi down and release some kimchi gases before storing in the fridge.

DSCN3797DSCN3807Love:

This is how I knew my kimchi was ready to go in the fridge- my husband came up from downstairs and said “what stinks?!” I said “kimchi is ready!” I have loved kimchi ever since I was a kid, I often wonder what my parents thought about their child asking for kimchi at the grocery store. My parents where both great cooks but we certainly didn’t eat kimchi at our dinner table. I have bought many different kinds of kimchi searching for the one that most reminded me of being a kid, failing to find the one. I have also attempted many times to make it myself, failed again! It wasn’t until I begged my friend Vanessa Chang to “please” come over and show me the mastery of this ancient food that I got a first hand look at how this special Korean condiment is made. The first time we made it she demonstrated and I watched, the second time I demonstrated and she watched, the third time I went solo and VIOLA, White Girl Kimchi was achieved! I lovely call it that because I am no way a master of kimchi, I’m still learning but I am so proud of myself for learning how to make something new that I have loved all my life. The salty, spicy, acidity that this kimchi has is just what I’ve been looking, and now a forever staple in the Cosmo Hippie Chef kitchen, even if my husband thinks it stinks! (Remember that’s how you know you did it right!) Enjoy!

Nutrition:

Probiotic- Bacteria, bacteria, bacteria! Kimchi is fermented therefore FULL of probiotics, aka good gut bacteria. Kimchi is full of vitamin A and C which are great for the immune system, 70% of our immune system happens in the gut. Our guts are so advanced it should actually have its own brain! With all the processed foods, stress and environmental toxins we are exposed to on a daily basis it is important to maintain healthy gut flora. Foods like kimchi can help, miso, sauerkraut and kombucha are also great probiotic foods.

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Ginger Tofu Miso Ranch- Turmeric Mint Lime Vinaigrette

31 Monday Mar 2014

Posted by in appetizer, dips, DIY, dressing, gluten-free, salad, vegan

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DSCN3759Food:

Ginger Tofu Miso Ranch

inspired by Bon Appetit

4oz silken tofu (I have made this with sprouted firm tofu, sprouted is better for you but it makes the dressing gritty. I like the silken better.) If you don’t eat any soy sub with 4oz of hemp seeds

3 T. miso (I change-up my miso all the time, for this recipe I used Cold Mountain organic unpasteurized red miso)

1 lemon, juice and zest

1 inch ginger, peeled and grated

2 tsp. apple cider vinegar or Honey Wine Vinegar (local)

1/2 c. Drake Family Farm Goat Yogurt

1 T. cilantro, chopped

2 T. chives, chopped

1 T. heaping homemade dry ranch mix (2T. dried parsley, 1t. dried dill, 1t. garlic powder, 1t. onion powder, 1/2t. dried basil, 1/2t. pepper, make a double batch and store in a glass container with a tight fitting lid)

salt and pepper to taste

DSCN3752Directions:

1. Place the tofu, miso, ginger, vinegar, lemon juice, zest and dry ranch into the food processor and mix well. Drizzle in the goat yogurt while the motor is running. Stop the machine and scrape down the sides, add in the chives and cilantro and pulse just to incorporate. Taste for salt and pepper and adjust seasoning.

2. Store in a glass container with a tight fitting lid and place in the fridge and let the flavors meld together for at least an hour. Eat!

We will be enjoying this dressing on my Spinach, Beet Quinoa Salad for dinners this week!

DSCN3754Turmeric Mint Lime Vinaigrette

inspired by Food Matters

1/4 c. olive oil

1/3 c. fresh lime juice (this was 4 limes for me)

zest from 2 limes

1/4 c. water

2 T. almond butter

1/4 c. tamari (organic gluten-free soy sauce)

2 tsp. dry kelp seasoning

2 small garlic cloves, chopped

1 tsp. grated fresh ginger

1 tsp. grated fresh turmeric

2 T. fresh mint

DSCN3747Directions:

1. All of the ingredients go into the food processor except the olive oil and mint, mix well. Next drizzle in the olive oil with the motor running. Stop the machine, scrape down the sides and add the mint, pulse just to combine.

2. Store in a glass container with a tight-fitting lid and place in the fridge for the flavors to meld together for at least an hour. Eat!

I think this dressing would be killer on my “SLO” Salad.

DSCN3757Nutrition:

Tofu- In my opinion soy gets a bad wrap, maybe because we are using soy in everything and all soy isn’t created equal. I suggest you stick to sprouted tofu (sprouted anything is always better and easier to digest), tempeh, miso (which are fermented and fermented means good gut bacteria and better digestion), and edamame. Always look for Non-GMO! Silken tofu if a great veggie/plant based protein to add to your smoothies.

Miso- Miso is full of good bacteria, best when eaten raw like in this dressing to maximize all it has to offer. Can be added to soup, just remember to add it to the soup after it has been taken off the heat so you don’t kill the living bacteria. I LOVE MISO!

Turmeric- The list a benefits for turmeric is a mile long, most notable is that it is a big cancer fighter and a anti-inflammatory. I dare say that this will be the year of turmeric. Spicy like ginger, add it to soups, dressing, stir-fry’s and even juice it or add it to smoothies!

Kelp- One of the benefits for kelp is that its abundance of vitamins and minerals that promote healthy hair and skin. Kelp is mostly taken for its naturally high iodine content, which helps the functioning of the thyroid gland. Iodine is essential for the formation of thyroid hormones, which regulate the body’s energy production, promote growth and development, and help burn excess fat. It also adds a nice salty taste without actually adding salt, great sprinkled on eggs, veggies and grains.

Love:

These two wonderful tasty dressings have been on my “to-do” list for about a month! My friend Kim who runs the Downtown SLC Farmers Market asked me to come up with some fun dressings that would get you all excited for spring greens that will be popping up at future farmers market. Well, finally I am ready to share these dressings, I have made them a few different ways, photographed them twice and they are getting checked off my list today!

I am very picky about salad dressings, probably because I grew up eating my salads with vinegar and oil just like my grandpa. We loved vinegar and oil so much that when we were done with our salads if any dressing remained we slurped it up! That’s right we drank our leftover vinegar and oil! My grandpa and I also shared a love of mashed potatoes and gravy and though I didn’t share his passion for root beer floats I was always in charge of making them for him at family get togethers. Sadly my grandpa passed away two weeks ago, this is one of the reason’s I have been MIA on my blog. I am doing my best to keep up with life and it’s demands but when someone who has been a constant figure in your life passes away everything else seems to stand still, at least for me. I miss him terribly and I am trying to find peace in knowing (trusting) that him and my grandma are together and all is right in their world, whatever that may be. Sometimes the “to-do” list can wait, it is important to me that what I share with you is the best it can possibly be and from time to time that may take me just a little longer.

I love these two new dressings and I think you will to, they are very different and should get you excited about a new season of bounty headed our way. ENJOY!

 

 

 

 

 

Egg Pots- Survival Food

12 Wednesday Mar 2014

Posted by in breakfast, dinner, gluten-free, lunch, Side dish

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DSCN3730Love:

Well it is safe to say that February kicked my behind! Nothing more than the ordinary person, but it didn’t leave me much time for anything but work and my family. In order for me to take care of what needed the most attention my blogging had to take a backseat, I know you all understand and I bet you’ve even been there yourself. BUT, I am happy to report that during this hectic time I was able to make sure we ate well and I am excited to share the recipe I made the most during this stressful time.

These little egg pots can be eaten anytime of day and can be made with whatever veggies you have on hand, they are best enjoyed warm but can be made ahead and reheated. Since I don’t eat much meat, eggs are a great protein source for me. I buy local eggs at the farmers market and enjoy them hard-boiled, poached, scrambled and like this in these egg pots. My husband likes his egg pots with a side of sourdough toast slathered with ghee, I like mine with a side of avocado toast. It is nice to have a few recipes that can keep you nourished on the inside when everything on the outside is going haywire. This is an everyday recipe that is quick and healthy. ENJOY!

Food:

Egg Pots- Survival Food serves 2

Note: This isn’t an exact recipe other than the eggs, just use your instincts and if you make too much filling save it and serve it over brown rice with a poached egg or a quesadilla for your little stinkers.

DSCN37114 local eggs

8-10 stalks of asparagus, trimmed and chopped (you could sub with broccoli)

1 c. Brussels sprouts, chopped (you could sub kale)

8-10 medium shiitake mushrooms, chopped

1/2 small onion, chopped

1 tsp. Toum (you can use fresh chopped garlic)

ghee

salt and pepper

Directions:

1. Pre heat oven to 375 degrees. Place a small amount of ghee in 4 ramekins and distribute it evenly, place the oiled ramekins into a medium casserole dish that will be able to hold water.

2. Melt about 2 tsp. of ghee in a medium saute pan, add the onion, asparagus, Brussels sprouts and mushrooms, season with salt and pepper. Saute until the asparagus is bright green, add the Toum or garlic until the scent of garlic fills the kitchen. No need to over cook the veggies since they’ll be going into oven.

3. Place two heaping spoonfuls of the veggies in each ramekin, next crack an egg crack over each ramekin. Season each egg with a little bit of salt and pepper.

DSCN3715DSCN37194. Heat a teapot/kettle until hot, pour hot water into the casserole dish until the water is 3/4 up the sides of the ramekins. Carefully place the casserole dish with the water and ramekins into the oven and bake 20-25 minutes.

DSCN37225. Let the pots cool just a bit and then remove them from the hot water, serve with buttered or avocado toast, EAT!

Nutrition:

Asparagus- Asparagus is an excellent source of potassium, vitamin K, folic acid, vitamins A&C. It is also a very good source of dietary fiber, niacin, phosphorus, protein and iron!

Shiitakes- These little nutrient dense morsels have long been a symbol of longevity in Asia because of its health-promoting properties. Shiitakes contain an active compound called lentinan. Lentinan has the power to boost the immune system  and strengthen its ability to fight infection and disease. It has also been shown to have anti-cancer activity.

Eggs- Choosing local, organic free range eggs means you are ensuring that what you are consuming is free of harmful antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Free range chickens feed on seeds and insect and sometimes flax seeds or special meal enriched with DHA which increases the omega-3 content of their eggs.

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Broccoli Chop Salad- Take Two

16 Thursday Jan 2014

Posted by in appetizer, gluten-free, salad, Snack

≈ 1 Comment

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DSCN3663Food:

Broccoli Chop Salad serves 8

1lb broccoli florets

1lb romanesco, chopped

16oz bag of shelled edamame/ or peas

2 c. celery, chopped

2 green apples, chopped (farmers market)

1 c. tart dried cherries (farmers market)

1/4 large purple onion, chopped (farmers market)

1 c. cilantro/parsley/mint (you decide) leaves, lightly packed

1 c. sunflower seeds, shelled

Dressing:

1 c. goat yogurt (farmers market, you could sub with veganaise or your favorite yogurt)

1/4 c. rice vinegar

1-2 T. pure maple syrup

salt and pepper

*optional- Stilton Blue Cheese (this is a great addition if you are making this salad for a party or get together, no one minds eating all these veggies when cheese is involved!)

DSCN3649Directions:

1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil, also place a large bowl of water and ice in the sink to blanch the veggies. When the water comes to a boil drop the broccoli and romanesco into the water for about two minutes or just until their color brightens. Ladle the veggies out of the boiling water and plunge them into the cold ice bath. Drain veggies, set them aside and prepare another ice bath for the edamame, cook edamame according to the directions on the package. Then plunge them into an ice bath. Drain and set aside.

DSCN3652DSCN3654DSCN36552. In a large bowl mix the dressing ingredients, taste and season with salt and pepper. Add in the onions, apples, cherries and celery. Then add the blanched broccoli, romanesco and edamame, toss to coat. Lightly fold in the cilantro.

3. Toast the sunflowers seed in a dry saute pan until fragrant and slightly toasted. Toss them over the salad. EAT!

Nutrition:

Broccoli/romanesco- Broccoli is one of the most nutrient dense foods and is super low in calories! It is especially rich in vitamin C and 1 cup has about the same amount of protein as a cup of corn or rice but less than on third amount of calories. Broccoli is also a good source of vitamins K, C and A, as well as folic acid and fiber. It also contains phytochemicals with tremendous anticancer effects.

Apples- Apples are very high in pectin, a soluble fiber that has been shown to exert many beneficial effects. Because of its gel-forming fiber, pectin can lower cholesterol levels as well as improve the intestinal muscle’s ability to push waste through the gastrointestinal tract. Basically apples will help you poop like a rockstar!

Sunflower seeds- Studies have shown that the American diet is deficient of vital nutrients such as selenium which can be found in sunflower seeds. This particular mineral has anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory and antialler-genic properties. Sunflower seeds are also a wonderful source of protein, vitamin E, magnesium, vitamins B1,5 and 6, phosphorus, copper, iron, folic acid and fiber.

(Above nutrition tid bits came from The Encyclopedia of Healing Foods)

Love:

This recipe is an oldie but a goodie, I posted the original version almost 4 years ago! I can’t speak for all bloggers but sometimes it’s good to go back and revisit some of your old recipes and update them. I start to crave this recipe during this time of year because I am looking for a little crunch in my diet. After indulging in all the wonder slow cooked foods from the holidays this girl needs some fresh flavors and I just love the color and textures of this salad! I also love it with a little good quality blue cheese such as Stilton, but if you are trying to clean up your diet after the holidays just leave it out. If you want another fresh crunchy seasonal salad check this one out from last year. I hope these recipe finds you happy and healthy in this new year. ENJOY!

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