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Life. Revelation. Expectation. Disappointment. Fulfillment. Tears. Inspiration. Reality. Peace. Torture. Clarity. Love. These are some of the words I think of. I find they go hand in hand with each moment that fills the days we are given. They are alive, rhythmically shifting beneath a cover of organization, planning, and perceived control. The kind of control we all believe we have. And yet every bit of life is fragile beyond comprehension. That's why memories and the moment are so profound. What will we make of life and the time we have left?  My mother's FIRST set of measuring spoons and the NEW keepsake she gave to me for my birthday. I was once asked if I had a “sense” of how many years I would live. Whether it is naïve or not, I have always believed it would be at least 100 years. It is a reasonable assumption since the life span of dozens on my ancestors has been well over the age of 90 over the last 300 hundred years. So after turning 60 this year, I can expect 40 more years of “life.” What can I do to make it what I want it?
These 3 salads + 9 more recipes below = twelve mouth-watering downloads! Ask a physicist about control. It is the most false claim of all. Called the “Observer Effect.” In physics, the observer effect is the theory that simply observing a situation or phenomenon necessarily changes that phenomenon. Let me explain using a food metaphor: I want to see how my cake is faring during a bake. I open the oven door and … boom! I have changed the environment. So to discover what the cake was at the time I was curious is impossible, since I opened the oven door and shifted everything. But then, that's part of the dance, yes? I have always said that food and your interaction with it is THE metaphor for life. Like a successful soufflé, you only know elation the second you take it out of the oven. And you only get to enjoy the show for about 5 minutes. Then, all of that work begins to deflate into a cavern of lost excitement leaving only the exquisiteness of the memory. So you better enjoy the moment.  I find that the way I cook changes from day to day, month to month, and circumstance to circumstance. We have moved twice since I started this blog. So my comfort zone of oven, lighting, and surroundings has changed drastically. The size of my kitchen has changed. My health has changed. And my countertop space has shrunken. This last year I have done more recipe development but less posting. More refining of technique but less concentration on hashtags or followers. But that doesn’t matter. I still have a passion for all of it. I still feel like I can answer all of life’s questions during cooking. And I have been able to have so many, many, many more new friends around my table to nourish. And that makes life perfect for me. Philosophy lesson is over. Now it is time to browse through and enjoy TWELVE, yes that is TWELVE new recipes. Lots of comfort food with my twist, a tasty side dish, several salads, and one terrific dessert. #1 RECIPE: Slow Cooker Citrus Carnitas Burritos My husbands' eyes always light up when he smells the pork slowly simmering in the crock pot since he knows his favorite burritos are on their way. The addition of lime and orange provide the perfect backdrop for cheese, and enchilada sauce, along with a cold margarita!
 3 lbs. pork shoulder roast trimmed and cut into large chunks about 3” around About 3 C organic apple cider* 2 clementines (can use small oranges) quartered 1 lime quartered 1 lime sliced for garnish 1/3 c large diced sweet onion 4 medium cloves garlic rough chopped 2 t kosher salt 1 t black pepper 1/2 t coriander 1/2 t good paprika 1/2 t ground cumin 1/2 t cayenne pepper 2-3 T oil 1 small can Old El Paso Enchilada Sauce 1 C cheddar cheese grated Handful fresh chopped cilantro 6 small flour tortillas slightly warmed Place meat, onion, citrus, and seasonings in slow cooker (Crock Pot). Toss all with a little oil to cover. Cover with organic apple cider up to a level just below ingredients but not totally covering. Cook on low 7 hours. When done remove citrus, take out meat reserving juice and shred meat with fork. Put shredded meat back in juices. Heat small can of Old El Paso red enchilada sauce. To assemble place large amount of shredded meat in center of tortilla. (Use tongs to remove meat and let it drip so meat isn’t full of juice. Ladle several T of heated red sauce on top of meat. Roll up. Put more enchilada sauce on top, then top with extra sharp cheddar cheese. Put under broiler until bubbly. Serve with a slice of lime and cilantro. #2 RECIPE: Baked Pineapple Chicken Meatballs |
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1 lb. 90% lean ground beef
1 very large and wide zucchini sliced lengthwise into thin strips
1 28 oz. can whole San Marzano tomatoes
1/3 C chopped red onion
1/3 C chopped red pepper
1-2 large cloves of garlic chopped finely
Handful of fresh oregano leaves rough chopped
2 T chopped fresh flat leaf parsley
1 t paprika
3 T half and half
2 t kosher salt ½ t cracked black pepper (to taste)
½ C + grated parmigiana reggiano cheese
Water and corn starch for thickening
A bit of light oil for greasing baking dish.
1 very large and wide zucchini sliced lengthwise into thin strips
1 28 oz. can whole San Marzano tomatoes
1/3 C chopped red onion
1/3 C chopped red pepper
1-2 large cloves of garlic chopped finely
Handful of fresh oregano leaves rough chopped
2 T chopped fresh flat leaf parsley
1 t paprika
3 T half and half
2 t kosher salt ½ t cracked black pepper (to taste)
½ C + grated parmigiana reggiano cheese
Water and corn starch for thickening
A bit of light oil for greasing baking dish.
Cut zucchini strips, cover with a moist paper towel and set aside.
In a large saucepan add the meat, paprika, the onion, and the red pepper. Season with a little salt and pepper. Break up the meat a little and let brown on medium high until onions are soft. Open the can of tomatoes and empty into large bowl. Using your hands squeeze the tomatoes until broken up in the liquid. Then add the tomatoes to the pan. Stir to incorporate and return to a simmer. Then add the fresh oregano, 1 T chopped parsley, and the chopped garlic. Cover and let simmer for 45 lovely, fragrant, my-kitchen-smells-amazing minutes.
Remove lid, and take pan off heat. Then stir in the cornstarch dissolved in water, adding a little at a time, until it thickens and isn’t runny. Then return to heat and add the cream stirring well. Turn heat off and cover. Begin assembling by layering half the zucchini strips on the bottom of a medium sized baking dish, overlapping each one. Then add half the meat mixture. Cover the meat with the last strips of zucchini, layering again, then cover with the rest of the meat sauce. Sprinkle with the grated parmesan. Be generous with the cheese! Bake in a 400 degree F oven for about 20 minutes or until everything is bubbling well. Remove, let sit for about 5 minutes. Cut and serve over my lemon zest creamy rice.* Garnish with the remaining 1 T parsley.
*Lemon zest rice: Cook 1 C jasmine rice as directed. When cooked add 3 T heavy cream, the juice of one lemon, the zest of one lemon, a bit of salt and pepper and stir.
In a large saucepan add the meat, paprika, the onion, and the red pepper. Season with a little salt and pepper. Break up the meat a little and let brown on medium high until onions are soft. Open the can of tomatoes and empty into large bowl. Using your hands squeeze the tomatoes until broken up in the liquid. Then add the tomatoes to the pan. Stir to incorporate and return to a simmer. Then add the fresh oregano, 1 T chopped parsley, and the chopped garlic. Cover and let simmer for 45 lovely, fragrant, my-kitchen-smells-amazing minutes.
Remove lid, and take pan off heat. Then stir in the cornstarch dissolved in water, adding a little at a time, until it thickens and isn’t runny. Then return to heat and add the cream stirring well. Turn heat off and cover. Begin assembling by layering half the zucchini strips on the bottom of a medium sized baking dish, overlapping each one. Then add half the meat mixture. Cover the meat with the last strips of zucchini, layering again, then cover with the rest of the meat sauce. Sprinkle with the grated parmesan. Be generous with the cheese! Bake in a 400 degree F oven for about 20 minutes or until everything is bubbling well. Remove, let sit for about 5 minutes. Cut and serve over my lemon zest creamy rice.* Garnish with the remaining 1 T parsley.
*Lemon zest rice: Cook 1 C jasmine rice as directed. When cooked add 3 T heavy cream, the juice of one lemon, the zest of one lemon, a bit of salt and pepper and stir.
#4 RECIPE: Tender Beef Shepherd's Pie
with Fennel and Sweet Potatoes
Inspired by several versions seen on the Internet, I of course put my own savvy twist on this with heirloom tomatoes, fresh herbs, a fresh and intensely flavored sauce, and a little fennel. I totally dig it this way. Not sure I will make it with anything other than sweet taters again!
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1 ½ lbs. stew meat cut into ¾ inch chunks patted dry and brought to room temperature
½ large stalk fennel chopped into ¼ inch chunks
1 shallot, about 2 ½ inches long, chopped into large chunks
2 T light oil
2 garlic cloves finely chopped
1 ½ C dark red small heirloom tomatoes cut in half or you can use cherry tomatoes
½ C beef broth
¼ C fruity red wine
½ C smooth tomato sauce, unseasoned
1 t good paprika
1-2 t of kosher salt and 1 t black pepper (To taste. It will depend upon the seasoning of the beef broth so be sure and taste it!)
3 T corn starch dissolved in a little water
Large stalk of rosemary
2-3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 2 inch chunks
¼ C heavy cream
4 T salted butter
Extra kosher salt for potatoes
½ t of a good quality light and complex curry powder
Handful of chopped Italian leaf parsley for garnish
½ large stalk fennel chopped into ¼ inch chunks
1 shallot, about 2 ½ inches long, chopped into large chunks
2 T light oil
2 garlic cloves finely chopped
1 ½ C dark red small heirloom tomatoes cut in half or you can use cherry tomatoes
½ C beef broth
¼ C fruity red wine
½ C smooth tomato sauce, unseasoned
1 t good paprika
1-2 t of kosher salt and 1 t black pepper (To taste. It will depend upon the seasoning of the beef broth so be sure and taste it!)
3 T corn starch dissolved in a little water
Large stalk of rosemary
2-3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 2 inch chunks
¼ C heavy cream
4 T salted butter
Extra kosher salt for potatoes
½ t of a good quality light and complex curry powder
Handful of chopped Italian leaf parsley for garnish
Bring oil to hot in a large
sauté pan and add shallot, fennel, tomatoes, and beef. Sprinkle with salt and
pepper. Cook until onions are transparent, about 4 minutes. Add the wine,
stock, and tomato sauce, and garlic, and nestle in the rosemary stalk and mix
all together. Cook covered on a low simmer for 1 hour.
While beef is simmering, boil sweet potatoes covered in water until soft. Drain, add the cream, butter, salt, and curry. Blend with a hand mixer until smooth. Set aside with lid on but no need to keep burner on. After the hour, remove lid on beef and mix and remove from heat, then stir in the cornstarch mixed with water and thicken beef mixture until it resembles gravy consistency.
Pour all of the meat mixture in a glass baking dish with high sides, about 8 by 12 inches, and spread until covering the bottom evenly. Then carefully spread the top with the mashed sweet potatoes. Sprinkle with a little of the parsley. Bake in a 350 degree F oven for about 20 minutes until bubbling and hot throughout. Serve with another flourish of parsley!
While beef is simmering, boil sweet potatoes covered in water until soft. Drain, add the cream, butter, salt, and curry. Blend with a hand mixer until smooth. Set aside with lid on but no need to keep burner on. After the hour, remove lid on beef and mix and remove from heat, then stir in the cornstarch mixed with water and thicken beef mixture until it resembles gravy consistency.
Pour all of the meat mixture in a glass baking dish with high sides, about 8 by 12 inches, and spread until covering the bottom evenly. Then carefully spread the top with the mashed sweet potatoes. Sprinkle with a little of the parsley. Bake in a 350 degree F oven for about 20 minutes until bubbling and hot throughout. Serve with another flourish of parsley!
#5 RECIPE: Apricot Orange and Ginger Glazed Mahi
Cutting out each orange segment makes it really so much better. Looks elegant and easier to eat. It doesn't take long! This was the perfect way to set off the meaty and sweet flavors of Mahi. I served it with butter sauteed fennel and zucchini.
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4 6 oz. Mahi
steaks
½ C Apricot Jam
2 small to medium navel oranges peeled and sections neatly cut out
2 t fresh ginger chopped finely
1 generous T of rice wine vinegar
1 ½ t kosher salt
½ t black pepper
2 T oil
Large handful fresh cilantro chopped
½ C Apricot Jam
2 small to medium navel oranges peeled and sections neatly cut out
2 t fresh ginger chopped finely
1 generous T of rice wine vinegar
1 ½ t kosher salt
½ t black pepper
2 T oil
Large handful fresh cilantro chopped
In a small bowl combine the jam,
oranges, ginger, and vinegar. Mix well. Rub a bit of the oil around the bottom
and walls of a medium sized baking dish just large enough so that the Mahi can
be placed about 1 inch apart. Then take the remaining oil and rub on the Mahi.
Sprinkle with salt and pepper on both sides. Arrange in the baking dish. Ladle
the apricot mixture on top, taking care to keep some of the orange sections on
the top. Bake at 400 degrees F for about 15 minutes or until steaks are done.
Remove from oven and serve with your choice of side dish.
#6 RECIPE: Zesty Ginger BBQ Baked Chicken
with Rosemary Roasted Parnsips
This has gt to be the swankiest chicken and fries, ever. Rich, tangy, cool, hot, and fresh. I served it with a simple tomato and English cucumber salad tossed with a splash of red wine vinegar, light oil, fresh cilantro , and salt and pepper.
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4 boneless and skinless chicken thighs patted dry
Oil to moisten
½ C ketchup
3 T good quality balsamic vinegar
1 very large clove garlic chopped finely
1 heaping T candied ginger chopped finely
1 t salt, ½ t cracked black pepper
Oil to moisten
½ C ketchup
3 T good quality balsamic vinegar
1 very large clove garlic chopped finely
1 heaping T candied ginger chopped finely
1 t salt, ½ t cracked black pepper
Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Rub a little oil all over the chicken. Mix the rest of the ingredients and toss the chicken in the zesty BBQ sauce. Place in baking dish with about 1 inch between each thigh. Slather the top of each thigh with the rest of the sauce. Bake for about 20-25 minutes until meat is 170 degrees inside; cooked by not dry.
Serve with parsnips tossed with oil, salt and pepper, and fresh chopped rosemary leaves baked on a baking sheet at 425 degrees F for about 20 minutes.
Serve with parsnips tossed with oil, salt and pepper, and fresh chopped rosemary leaves baked on a baking sheet at 425 degrees F for about 20 minutes.
#7 RECIPE: Salmon Florentine
Although you can serve this with any side dish from rice to lentils, I paired it with boiled Yukon gold potatoes and fennel mashed with some butter, cream, and lemon. Then served it as a beautiful round mound with rosemary tossed cherry tomatoes.
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4 6 oz. salmon filets, skin on, patted dry
1 t kosher salt, ½ t black pepper
2 T light oil such as grape seed (High smoke point)
8 C fresh spinach leaves
Squeeze of fresh lemon juice
½ t fresh lemon zest
2 T mayonnaise
3 T grated Parmesan
¼ t ground coriander
1/3 T ground ginger
1 t kosher salt, ½ t black pepper
2 T light oil such as grape seed (High smoke point)
8 C fresh spinach leaves
Squeeze of fresh lemon juice
½ t fresh lemon zest
2 T mayonnaise
3 T grated Parmesan
¼ t ground coriander
1/3 T ground ginger
Wilt spinach in a large pan with a drop or so of water. Remove and place in colander. When cool, after about 10 minutes, begin squeezing out ALL THE WATER. I begin by squeezing in my palms, then pushing it against the sieve, then wrapping it in a paper towel and squeezing several times. You end up with about 3/4 C of beautifully green and fresh spinach. In that same bowl add the mayo, lemon zest and juice, cheese, spices, and a bit of salt and pepper. Mix and set aside.
Rub a bit of oil on the salmon filets and a bit of kosher salt. Heat the oil in a pan until hot. Place the salmon, skin side down in the oil and sear until the skin is crispy and you begin to see the fish turn opaque about 1/3 of the way up from the bottom. Then flip the salmon over and sear on the other side. Be sure and regulate the temperature of the oil so that it doesn’t smoke and burn the fish, but maintains a sizzle. When you see just a small thin layer of pink in the middle and everything else is opaque, gently spoon the spinach mixture over the top of the filet. You can invert the fish again to top the non-skin side with the Florentine, or do as I did and put on top of the crispy skin. YUM. Cover with a lid, turn to low, and let it steam and continue to cook for about another 3 minutes.
Remove and serve with your favorite sides! Can squeeze a bit of lemon on the top for serving if desired.
Rub a bit of oil on the salmon filets and a bit of kosher salt. Heat the oil in a pan until hot. Place the salmon, skin side down in the oil and sear until the skin is crispy and you begin to see the fish turn opaque about 1/3 of the way up from the bottom. Then flip the salmon over and sear on the other side. Be sure and regulate the temperature of the oil so that it doesn’t smoke and burn the fish, but maintains a sizzle. When you see just a small thin layer of pink in the middle and everything else is opaque, gently spoon the spinach mixture over the top of the filet. You can invert the fish again to top the non-skin side with the Florentine, or do as I did and put on top of the crispy skin. YUM. Cover with a lid, turn to low, and let it steam and continue to cook for about another 3 minutes.
Remove and serve with your favorite sides! Can squeeze a bit of lemon on the top for serving if desired.
#8 RECIPE: Quick Carrot Tabouleh
Oh, my gosh. So easy! So fragrant. So fresh! So full of flavor. Yeah, healthy as well. Try this and you will have a bright side dish, a great snack, or mix into rice for a true crowd-pleaser.
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4 large carrots
½ t coriander powder
¼+ t ground cumin
¼ t ground ginger
1 small clove of garlic
1 few slices of red onion, about 1-2 T
5-6 large mint leaves, torn
1-3 T light oil such as canola
½ t coriander powder
¼+ t ground cumin
¼ t ground ginger
1 small clove of garlic
1 few slices of red onion, about 1-2 T
5-6 large mint leaves, torn
1-3 T light oil such as canola
Cut carrots into 1 inch chunks. Rough chop garlic clove. Add coriander, cumin, ginger, red onion, and mint leaves. Drizzle with about 1 T oil and pulse until ground into small pieces about the size of cooked couscous. Add a bit more oil and about 2 T fresh squeezed lemon juice, and serve.
#9 RECIPE: Vegetable and Orange Quinoa Salad
with Red Wine Vinaigrette
I have made so many people a fan of quinoa salad with this one. The refreshing orange and full-flavored dressing keeps it moist with textures that all complement. I think you will love it as well.
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3 C cooked quinoa, cooled
½ large English cucumber diced
2 celery stalks, diced
2 large navel oranges peeled and cut into small sections
Juice of half and orange
2 large Fuji apples diced
¼ C red onion sliced thin
¾ pint of cherry tomatoes, halved
Handful chopped fresh cilantro
3-4 T or more of red wine vinegar and light oil to your desired consistency
1 t kosher salt and ½ t black pepper to taste
½ large English cucumber diced
2 celery stalks, diced
2 large navel oranges peeled and cut into small sections
Juice of half and orange
2 large Fuji apples diced
¼ C red onion sliced thin
¾ pint of cherry tomatoes, halved
Handful chopped fresh cilantro
3-4 T or more of red wine vinegar and light oil to your desired consistency
1 t kosher salt and ½ t black pepper to taste
Read carefully. There are a LOT of instructions here... HAH!!!
Toss and let sit for about an hour before serving.
Can add protein to this such as shrimp, chicken, or salami.
Toss and let sit for about an hour before serving.
Can add protein to this such as shrimp, chicken, or salami.
#10 RECIPE: Amaretto Orange
and Brown Sugar Shrimp Appetizer
This creates some very complex layering of flavors for something so simple. Use good shrimp, and do not over cook them.
One of my MOST requested recipes!
One of my MOST requested recipes!
25-30 large cooked tail on shrimp, thawed and all moisture blotted out
½ C good Amaretto Liquor
3 heaping T brown sugar, not packed
Zest from half an orange
Handful of chopped flat leaf parsley
½ C good Amaretto Liquor
3 heaping T brown sugar, not packed
Zest from half an orange
Handful of chopped flat leaf parsley
In a small saucepan reduce the amaretto to half volume. Add the brown sugar and let bubble but not bubble too violently for about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
In a large bowl toss the shrimp with the cooled syrup, add the orange zest and parsley and let sit for about an hour or more. (Although you can serve right away, it’s best to let the shrimp soak up a bit of the flavor)
Serve.
In a large bowl toss the shrimp with the cooled syrup, add the orange zest and parsley and let sit for about an hour or more. (Although you can serve right away, it’s best to let the shrimp soak up a bit of the flavor)
Serve.
#11 RECIPE: Balsamic Roasted Cauliflower
and Caramelized Onions
This side dish is impressive and so easy. Great with steak, baked chicken, or pork. The red onions go incredibly sweet when baked, almost like you worked them in a pan on low heat for an hour. They are the right flavor against the rooty nature of cauliflower resulting in a most interesting combination.
Use GOOD balsamic for the ultimate result.
Use GOOD balsamic for the ultimate result.
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1 head cauliflower cut into flowerets
½ red onion sliced
3 T good balsamic vinegar that’s fairly sweet like fig or pomegranate
3 T olive oil
1 – 2 t kosher salt
½ t black pepper
½ red onion sliced
3 T good balsamic vinegar that’s fairly sweet like fig or pomegranate
3 T olive oil
1 – 2 t kosher salt
½ t black pepper
Heat oven to 375 degrees F. In a bowl toss the cauliflower and onion with the balsamic, oil, and salt and pepper. Spread out onto a parchment lined baking sheet. Roast for about 25 minutes or until onions are caramelized and cauliflower is soft. Test with a fork after 20 and determine how much time is needed. You don’t want mushy veggies!
#12 RECIPE: Apple Cinnamon Ginger Galette
Most of the time I put my apples in raw. But I decided to get them cooked and caramelized and the results were perfection. Candied ginger is a total game-changer!
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3 Fuji apples cut into slices
1/3 C golden raisins
2 t fresh grated ginger
2 t fresh squeezed lemon juice
1 t vanilla extract
1 t cinnamon
1/4 C granulated sugar
2 T packed brown sugar
3 T water
Box of Betty Crocker Pie crust dough
2 t raw sugar
1 egg beaten
Pinch of kosher salt
1/3 C golden raisins
2 t fresh grated ginger
2 t fresh squeezed lemon juice
1 t vanilla extract
1 t cinnamon
1/4 C granulated sugar
2 T packed brown sugar
3 T water
Box of Betty Crocker Pie crust dough
2 t raw sugar
1 egg beaten
Pinch of kosher salt
In a medium sized saucepan (avoid using a non-stick pan), add the white and brown sugars, ginger, cinnamon, the apple slices, the lemon juice, the vanilla, and the pinch of salt. Let boil gently for about 5-6 minutes until liquid begins to thicken and become syrupy. Watch pot carefully and stir often. Remove and let cool in a bowl. In the meantime, assemble the dough (or make your own) and roll it out to about a 12 inch circle. Don’t make the dough too thick or you will have a soggy bottom. Ragged ends are fine. Place the disc of dough on a parchment lined baking sheet. They make it look prettier! When the apples are cool enough ladle them into the center of the dough, piling up into a cone. Don’t need to use all the syrup but use as much as you think is wise so it doesn’t become a watery mess. Gently roll up the sides around the fruit leaving an opening at the top. Make sure you don’t have any tears around the perimeter. Brush with beaten egg and dust with the raw sugar. Place in fridge for about 20 minutes as the oven preheats to 425 degrees F. Then bake for about 20 minutes or until the crust is nice and golden brown. Let cool slightly and serve with cream or ice cream!
©Recipes and Photos Copyright Camine Pappas, 2019. All rights reserved.
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There's a serving of fruit in this dessert. I'm not lying. It's in there...juicy, sweet, and healthy. Oh, sure. Give me a bad time because all you can see is that glistening frosting and those dancing pecans....It's THERE! Well, maybe underneath about a million calories of other stuff, like sugar. I'm just saying, what is your point?
Sometimes we do that, don't we? Find a way to rationalize our way into eating dessert? Well, this recipe gives you that nudge you need to take a giant bite without 100% of the guilt afterwards.
It's really simple actually. By including some orange zest, orange juice, and your favorite fruit, your cake is gonna be "lick-the-plate" amazing!!!
Sometimes we do that, don't we? Find a way to rationalize our way into eating dessert? Well, this recipe gives you that nudge you need to take a giant bite without 100% of the guilt afterwards.
It's really simple actually. By including some orange zest, orange juice, and your favorite fruit, your cake is gonna be "lick-the-plate" amazing!!!
The truth is, I'm in LOVE with baking. Once I realized that measuring things did NOT frustrate my creative juices, I was in heaven. This cake uses a basic recipe I created that is so easy, and can showcase most any fruit. Today it is nectarines. And you won't believe how much you love it. I created it to serve as a birthday cake because as long as you put candles in it and sing while the celebrant makes a wish, and blows out the flame, it IS a birthday cake.
Loaded to the brim with yummy sweet things like orange zest, golden raisins, and a buttercream frosting that starts with fruit puree, every bite pops in your mouth with excitement and promise.
It was hard to get a shot that didn't include my slobber and tongue marks ALL OVER this gem.
All you need is a chain and a clasp and this dessert could qualify for bling around your neck! (Never mind that a bit of it might end up on your hips...we don't talk about that. No we don't.)
It's actually gorgeous before you even frost it. But I couldn't help myself!
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I'm kinda in love with how it looks. And tastes! Mix and then make your journey to fruit Nirvana!
RECIPE: Nectarine Golden Raisin Spice Cake
with Nectarine Puree Buttercream Frosting
Serves 8 / Click here for Printable Version
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1 ½ C all-purpose flour
2 t baking powder
½ t cinnamon
¼ brown sugar
¼ C white sugar
½ t kosher salt
1 egg, beaten
3 T butter melted plus more for greasing
2 t vanilla extract
3/4 C less 1 T milk or heavy cream
Zest from one orange
2 T fresh squeezed orange juice
Heaping 1/3 C golden raisins
1 C peeled and diced ripe Nectarine
2 t baking powder
½ t cinnamon
¼ brown sugar
¼ C white sugar
½ t kosher salt
1 egg, beaten
3 T butter melted plus more for greasing
2 t vanilla extract
3/4 C less 1 T milk or heavy cream
Zest from one orange
2 T fresh squeezed orange juice
Heaping 1/3 C golden raisins
1 C peeled and diced ripe Nectarine
Butter the bottom of a 10 inch round metal cake pan. Mix the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, brown sugar, white sugar and kosher salt in one bowl, stir with fork to incorporate. In another bowl combine the beaten egg, milk, vanilla, orange zest, orange juice and melted butter that has cooled a bit. Pour the wet into the dry and stir just until incorporated. Gently fold in the nectarines and raisins until blended. Pour into prepared cake pan. Bake in a 350 degree Fahrenheit oven for 35 minutes. Done when edges begin to pull from sides and the cake is browned. Let cool for about 15 minutes, invert onto a cooling rack to finish cooling completely. Frost the cooled cake. Can be done the day before. Does not need refrigeration for just 1 overnight, however you should refrigerate the leftovers after serving for up to 2 days.
Frosting: 1 nectarine, peeled and pureed smooth. ½ C of salted butter, 1 t kosher salt, ½ t cinnamon, ½ t vanilla and about 3 C of powdered sugar, or what is needed for spreading consistency. Use an electric mixer to combine all ingredients, starting by creaming the butter, vanilla, salt and puree, then adding the powdered sugar a little at a time, for best results.
Discovering Greek yogurt was a revelation. I absolutely love the texture and the flavor. The 80 calorie versions with the fruit on the bottom flat-out gets me through the day, while the plain version is a staple for desserts and sauces of all kinds, with everything from fresh blueberries to creamy peanut butter to chocolate being featured in this post.
Peanut Butter Mousse with Bananas and Shave Semi-Sweet Chocolate
Raspberry Lemon Custard Parfaits
Swirling PB&J Parfaits
Blueberry Mini Pie in a Dish with Blueberry Cream
Let's be honest. The Greek gods had one of their best days ever when they created yogurt. I mean, I love cream, butter, eggs and milk like most people. But when you're in a hurry and you want a certain consistency, there's no better cheater's ingredient to a lend creaminess to a dessert than yogurt. And without a doubt, the fact that it is also low calorie and good for you just confuses the heck out of my guests. Like, how did that little twist of fate happen without anyone having to give up a first born?
I'm not gonna ask. I'm just gonna be grateful...and eat it.
Check out these 5 quick recipes here!!!
I'm not gonna ask. I'm just gonna be grateful...and eat it.
Check out these 5 quick recipes here!!!
RECIPE: Peanut Butter Mousse with Bananas and
Shaved Semi-Sweet Chocolate
1 C heavy whipping cream
4 - 5 T creamy peanut butter (I simply grabbed two big globs with a serving tablespoon)
½ C packed brown sugar
½ t vanilla
1 6 oz. package plain Greek yogurt
1 oz. semi-sweet baking chocolate shaved
Mint sprigs to garnish
2 small bananas cut into small pieces
4 - 5 T creamy peanut butter (I simply grabbed two big globs with a serving tablespoon)
½ C packed brown sugar
½ t vanilla
1 6 oz. package plain Greek yogurt
1 oz. semi-sweet baking chocolate shaved
Mint sprigs to garnish
2 small bananas cut into small pieces
In one bowl, beat the cold cream until double in volume and stiff peaks just begin to form. In another bowl, combine the yogurt, peanut butter, brown sugar and vanilla. Beat together with whisk until smooth. Gently fold the whipped cream into the peanut butter mixture with spatula, just until incorporated. Now, fold in the bananas. Spoon mixture into serving glasses, top with shaved chocolate, garnish with mint sprig. Keep in refrigerator until ready to serve.
Can make the day ahead and then top with chocolate and serve.
VARIATIONS: Could top with toasted peanuts and mini chocolate chips, or omit bananas and top with cherry preserves and whipped cream. Or, put in small pie crusts and then top with chocolate ganache.
Can make the day ahead and then top with chocolate and serve.
VARIATIONS: Could top with toasted peanuts and mini chocolate chips, or omit bananas and top with cherry preserves and whipped cream. Or, put in small pie crusts and then top with chocolate ganache.
RECIPE: Raspberry Lemon Custard Parfaits
¾ C blackberries, rinsed and dried
¼ C sugar + 2 T sugar
2 T fresh squeezed lemon juice, divided
Lemon Custard pie filling (recipe from my Grandmother!)
1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream beaten to 3 cups or so
1 small container Greek yogurt
1 t vanilla
1 drop yellow food coloring
Lemon sliced thin
¼ C fresh pecan pieces
¼ C sugar + 2 T sugar
2 T fresh squeezed lemon juice, divided
Lemon Custard pie filling (recipe from my Grandmother!)
1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream beaten to 3 cups or so
1 small container Greek yogurt
1 t vanilla
1 drop yellow food coloring
Lemon sliced thin
¼ C fresh pecan pieces
Make lemon filling as directed and cool. Take blackberries and the 2 T sugar and 1 T lemon juice and cooker over medium heat for 10 minutes, stirring often. Set aside to cool. Whip the cream, add the ¼ C sugar and incorporate sugar. Then with a hand whisk, blend in the yogurt, lemon juice, vanilla and food coloring. In a small glass serving cup or parfait glass, cover the bottom third with the lemon custard. Then layer with the blackberry mixture. Then place the lemon cream on the top. Sprinkle with the pecans. To keep the lemon slices stiff for presentation, first slice very thin, roll in the 2 T sugar, then place on a paper plate and freeze. Takes about an hour or so. Then place on the dessert before serving for a sparkly and colorful garnish.
Here's a link to one of my favorites. Or use your own. -- http://www.bettycrocker.com/recipes/classic-lemon-meringue-pie/8f991b88-55b0-4740-b12c-251958d663a6
RECIPE: Swirling PB&J Parfaits
1 6 ounce container Greek yogurt (low fat is preferred)
6 ounces of smooth peanut butter
3 cups whipped cream (3/4 C heavy cream)
½ t vanilla
2-3 T powdered sugar
½ C of your favorite jam, divided
1/3 C salted peanuts, chopped
4 raspberries or other fruit to top rolled in granulated sugar
6 ounces of smooth peanut butter
3 cups whipped cream (3/4 C heavy cream)
½ t vanilla
2-3 T powdered sugar
½ C of your favorite jam, divided
1/3 C salted peanuts, chopped
4 raspberries or other fruit to top rolled in granulated sugar
In a large mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter and yogurt, mixing well. In another bowl, beat the cream with a hand mixer, add the sugar and vanilla just as it approaches soft peaks, and then keep beating again until stiff peaks form. Now add the peanut butter mixture a little at a time, folding in with a spatula about ¾ C at a time. Be patient. It will combine. But you want to keep the air in the whipped cream so be gentle.
In four parfait serving cups, add a little of the jam at the bottom, until you get see it on the side. I used red raspberry preserves. Then spoon the peanut butter mixture over the jam, and smooth out the tops of each patting down a little and swirling the top so it is flat and pretty. Top with the fruit piece rolled in sugar, and then sprinkle with the chopped peanuts. Chill until ready to serve and cover if it will be over 6 hours. Good overnight but not more than 1 day.
*I added 3 T powdered sugar and ½ t pure vanilla extract to the cream right before it came to stiff peak. Then finished blending.
In four parfait serving cups, add a little of the jam at the bottom, until you get see it on the side. I used red raspberry preserves. Then spoon the peanut butter mixture over the jam, and smooth out the tops of each patting down a little and swirling the top so it is flat and pretty. Top with the fruit piece rolled in sugar, and then sprinkle with the chopped peanuts. Chill until ready to serve and cover if it will be over 6 hours. Good overnight but not more than 1 day.
*I added 3 T powdered sugar and ½ t pure vanilla extract to the cream right before it came to stiff peak. Then finished blending.
RECIPE: Blueberry Mini Pie in a Dish with Blueberry Cream
1 ½ cans large can blueberry pie filling
9 original graham crackers, ground into a coarse meal
4 C whipped cream with the sugar and vanilla, ready to garnish
6 T butter, melted
3 T white sugar
9 original graham crackers, ground into a coarse meal
4 C whipped cream with the sugar and vanilla, ready to garnish
6 T butter, melted
3 T white sugar
Mix smashed grahams with the melted butter and sugar. Press into the bottom of 6 dessert dishes, dividing evenly. Cover with the blueberry pie filling. Then take all but about a cup of the whipped cream and blend in 1 C of the blueberry filling, and lightly fold in. You want a few chunks to show but you want it blended so the cream turns a lovely shade of purple! Place that on top, not quite touching the outer edges. You want to still be able to see the blueberry from above. Top with a dollop of the plan cream, and for something really pretty, garnish with a mint leaf and one lovely little purple pearl. They will LICK THE BOWL…
I went to a pastry class this weekend. (That's the subject of ANOTHER blog post!) And I realized that I want to learn how to make my own fabulous puff pastry dough. I'm certain it will rock my world. But right now my present world needs speed. Yours may be require a similar set of standards. And lucky for you, I have something that is FAST and GORGEOUS at the same time.
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Just a quick toss in sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice and vanilla and then artfully arranged on squares of puff pastry rolled out from a sheet of Pepperidge Farms ready made puff pastry sets amazingness in motion.
RECIPE: Quick Black Plum Puff Pastry with Honey and Sea Salt
Inspired by a recipe from Epicurious / Makes 8 Tarts / Click here for Printable Version
3 ripe black plums cut into crescent shapes about 1/8 inch width or less
2 T sugar
½ t cinnamon
Splash vanilla
½ t fresh squeezed lemon juice
1 sheet from a Pepperidge Farm Puff Pastry package, thawed
Honey and sea salt for drizzle
4 ounces plain Greek yogurt
1 T confectioner’s sugar
2 T sugar
½ t cinnamon
Splash vanilla
½ t fresh squeezed lemon juice
1 sheet from a Pepperidge Farm Puff Pastry package, thawed
Honey and sea salt for drizzle
4 ounces plain Greek yogurt
1 T confectioner’s sugar
Toss sliced plums with the sugar, cinnamon, vanilla and lemon juice. Let sit for about 30 minutes. Mix the yogurt with the confectioner’s sugar and set aside.
Follow package directions for puff pastry, thawing and rolling out while still cold. Cut into eight 4 inch squares. Top with the plums, about 6 each, arranging in center. Cook on a baking sheet in a 400 degree F oven for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Let cool slightly. You can use your own puff pastry! This is the QUICK way!
To plate, put a skid of yogurt on each plate, top with the tart and drizzle generously with honey. Sprinkle with kosher sea salt and serve.
Follow package directions for puff pastry, thawing and rolling out while still cold. Cut into eight 4 inch squares. Top with the plums, about 6 each, arranging in center. Cook on a baking sheet in a 400 degree F oven for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Let cool slightly. You can use your own puff pastry! This is the QUICK way!
To plate, put a skid of yogurt on each plate, top with the tart and drizzle generously with honey. Sprinkle with kosher sea salt and serve.
This picnic and the recipes developed are dedicated to the residents of Riverwalk, Rock Hill, and Evans Cohgill Homes, builder of fine homes at Riverwalk Carolinas in Rock Hill, SC.
Check out the slide show at bottom for how-to photos!
Want the recipes? Click on the name of the MENU item in the story, or these photos, to download a pdf.
Check out the slide show at bottom for how-to photos!
Want the recipes? Click on the name of the MENU item in the story, or these photos, to download a pdf.
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| I feel the hint of cool weather approaching. Green leaves, once firmly affixed to branches heavy with the canopy of summer, have begun to gather in small but growing, amber piles. I don’t mind it, really. I love being outside in late August, and it makes me appreciate the beauty of the Carolinas and the promise of autumn. Gone is the heavy mugginess so evident just this last week, making cooking in my kitchen that much more pleasant. |  |
Inspiration for my Swirling Chocolate Dessert! “Time for a picnic.” I muse, choosing to travel today to Riverwalk, in Rock Hill, SC to see friends, and then enjoy an al fresco meal among the oaks. As I prepared my simple weekend lunch in honor of this last holiday of summer, I decided to create not only something fun and original, but one themed for the many activities that every resident in Riverwalk is lucky enough to enjoy. With ice and napkins on board, I head out for one of the most progressive master-planned communities in the Carolinas.
After arriving and saying hello to my friends at Evans Coghill Homes and touring their amazing homes (I want one of the Villas!), I unhinge my bike, throw my lunch across my shoulders and ride slowly towards the river. Passing tree lined streets dotted with colorful cottages, and charming front porches, I then wave at my fellow pedalers -- those more ardent in their cycling passion than myself who are racing away at the adjacent and world-class Giordana Velodrome -- and settle in for lunch beside the river. The spot I choose is in the middle of the budding Town Center parcel. Among other exciting additions it will feature its own micro-brewery, a YMCA, shopping, dining and enhanced open spaces.
Spreading out a blanket and noshing on some carrot sticks and asparagus, my first course is a nod to cyclers everywhere. Check out my BMX-CELLENT SPIRAL PASTA SALAD WITH CHICKEN AND ORANGE GINGER DRESSING which pays homage to the Novant BMX Supercross Track soon to open here in Riverwalk. Using ready-made and fresh ingredients, this colorful salad is packed with protein and vegetables, and surprises with a kick of chili flakes and the heady satisfaction of ginger and orange. Replacing the usual sandwich fare as the centerpiece, this salad comes together in a flash, and qualifies easily for one of my #fabin40 recipes. It goes great with chips, apples, even holding its own next to your favorite baked beans, or a generous slice of watermelon. “This salad will taste even better tomorrow!” I think, as I wipe the last vestiges off my chin, and place the leftovers in my back pack.
I’m now ready for something sweet, and inspiration is only a few yards away. Watching the currents in the bend in the river swirl around the base of aging trees, I see the brightly colored kayaks come into view, paddling peacefully along the banks of the Catawba just inches from my traveling lunch. Warm and soothing, the muddy waters urge me on to dessert. My first bite of my CATAWBA INSPIRED DARK CHOCOLATE, CREAM CHEESE AND CARAMEL SWIRL PARFAIT wows with the dizzying satisfaction that only chocolate provides. Crowned with a caramel filled Ghirardelli wafer planted in the middle of swirling dark chocolate ganache, I dig deep to get a spoonful of caramel, and sweetened cream cheese in one, decadent bite. These are easy to make in advance and keep in the fridge, covered until you put them into your cooler. Yeah, I know. I’ll have to paddle a few hundred miles to mitigate the calories, but it’s chocolate, caramel, and cream cheese for heaven’s sake! Plus, I need energy for the hike I have planned later, right?
Speaking of hiking, the Carolina Thread Trail is another huge amenity here in Rock Hill. Eventually it will connect 15 communities and over 2.3 million citizens, and features miles of meandering pathways. Not to mention a way to get your pulse respectably up to speed. I even created a beautiful, take-along snack for the trek. My CAROLINA THREAD CASHEW CURRANT TRAIL MIX is pumped up in flavor with the addition of crunchy organic raw sugar, and earthy cinnamon. White chocolate makes it rich, golden raisins make it pretty, and peanuts make it familiar. I declare! Pack some in your pocket next time you sport those hiking shoes and you won’t regret it.
“Hey! You want someone company?” A low voice chants from behind, interrupting my slow attempt to gather my belongings and head for home. As I turn to identify the callers, I see four bikers, 10-speeds in tow, headed my way for a rest after 30 miles or so at the track.
“Sure! Come on down!” I shout. And turning to my leftovers, I know just what to offer them on this lazy, comforting, delicious, No-Labor Day.
#caminecooks #riverwalkpicnic #catawbainspired #fabin40 #caminewrites #c-and-company #evanscoghillhomes
After arriving and saying hello to my friends at Evans Coghill Homes and touring their amazing homes (I want one of the Villas!), I unhinge my bike, throw my lunch across my shoulders and ride slowly towards the river. Passing tree lined streets dotted with colorful cottages, and charming front porches, I then wave at my fellow pedalers -- those more ardent in their cycling passion than myself who are racing away at the adjacent and world-class Giordana Velodrome -- and settle in for lunch beside the river. The spot I choose is in the middle of the budding Town Center parcel. Among other exciting additions it will feature its own micro-brewery, a YMCA, shopping, dining and enhanced open spaces.
Spreading out a blanket and noshing on some carrot sticks and asparagus, my first course is a nod to cyclers everywhere. Check out my BMX-CELLENT SPIRAL PASTA SALAD WITH CHICKEN AND ORANGE GINGER DRESSING which pays homage to the Novant BMX Supercross Track soon to open here in Riverwalk. Using ready-made and fresh ingredients, this colorful salad is packed with protein and vegetables, and surprises with a kick of chili flakes and the heady satisfaction of ginger and orange. Replacing the usual sandwich fare as the centerpiece, this salad comes together in a flash, and qualifies easily for one of my #fabin40 recipes. It goes great with chips, apples, even holding its own next to your favorite baked beans, or a generous slice of watermelon. “This salad will taste even better tomorrow!” I think, as I wipe the last vestiges off my chin, and place the leftovers in my back pack.
I’m now ready for something sweet, and inspiration is only a few yards away. Watching the currents in the bend in the river swirl around the base of aging trees, I see the brightly colored kayaks come into view, paddling peacefully along the banks of the Catawba just inches from my traveling lunch. Warm and soothing, the muddy waters urge me on to dessert. My first bite of my CATAWBA INSPIRED DARK CHOCOLATE, CREAM CHEESE AND CARAMEL SWIRL PARFAIT wows with the dizzying satisfaction that only chocolate provides. Crowned with a caramel filled Ghirardelli wafer planted in the middle of swirling dark chocolate ganache, I dig deep to get a spoonful of caramel, and sweetened cream cheese in one, decadent bite. These are easy to make in advance and keep in the fridge, covered until you put them into your cooler. Yeah, I know. I’ll have to paddle a few hundred miles to mitigate the calories, but it’s chocolate, caramel, and cream cheese for heaven’s sake! Plus, I need energy for the hike I have planned later, right?
Speaking of hiking, the Carolina Thread Trail is another huge amenity here in Rock Hill. Eventually it will connect 15 communities and over 2.3 million citizens, and features miles of meandering pathways. Not to mention a way to get your pulse respectably up to speed. I even created a beautiful, take-along snack for the trek. My CAROLINA THREAD CASHEW CURRANT TRAIL MIX is pumped up in flavor with the addition of crunchy organic raw sugar, and earthy cinnamon. White chocolate makes it rich, golden raisins make it pretty, and peanuts make it familiar. I declare! Pack some in your pocket next time you sport those hiking shoes and you won’t regret it.
“Hey! You want someone company?” A low voice chants from behind, interrupting my slow attempt to gather my belongings and head for home. As I turn to identify the callers, I see four bikers, 10-speeds in tow, headed my way for a rest after 30 miles or so at the track.
“Sure! Come on down!” I shout. And turning to my leftovers, I know just what to offer them on this lazy, comforting, delicious, No-Labor Day.
#caminecooks #riverwalkpicnic #catawbainspired #fabin40 #caminewrites #c-and-company #evanscoghillhomes
It's that time again, when cherries are everywhere. Like beautiful organic earrings, hanging ample and confident from a long, graceful stem, these orbs are as versatile as any food on the planet. As I purchased the large container from our local market, I mused about what to do with them: Maybe a pickled pearl onion and cherry chutney, or reduced with port wine and shitake mushrooms to cascade over a pork loin. Maybe heated with lemon and sugar to create a deep claret colored jam, or, chopped into juicy, ruby slivers and added to...ah yes...A SOUR CREAM POUND CAKE filled to the gills with CHERRIES, frosted liberally with pink, cream cheese frosting.
I guess I gravitated to the evil choice first. Lucky you.
I guess I gravitated to the evil choice first. Lucky you.
It happens every year, that first moment when the spirit of Christmas overwhelms you and you feel warm tears on your cheeks, your heart beating in peace, and you just understand what love has meant in your life. That moment happened, not surprisingly while making my first batch of Christmas cookies about 2 weeks ago, and listening to Manheim Steamroller sing "I'll be Home for Christmas." The smell of chocolate, the twinkling of lights and certainly the smiles on those for whom I cooked all combined to satisfy that deep longing for tradition.
Speaking of tradition, we just returned from a short trip to see my best friend in Indiana, reconnecting with friends and gorging on a plethora of tastes and textures. Her daughter, Kaitylyn, is now also a budding cook, her 12 years belying her maturity and intuition for things. A lot of her passion for food has come from her grandma, Mary Ann who spent nearly all her time during our visit, hunched over the stove lovingly wrapping savory golumpkis, rolling dozens of veal meatballs, and even cooking one of my husband's childhood favorites, the beloved Chrusciki (a fried pastry dough that is served covered, and I do mean covered, with powdered sugar). I share the recipe and the moments with you here today because we all come from something, and the way to find that connection is surely through the recipes and foods we love.
Speaking of tradition, we just returned from a short trip to see my best friend in Indiana, reconnecting with friends and gorging on a plethora of tastes and textures. Her daughter, Kaitylyn, is now also a budding cook, her 12 years belying her maturity and intuition for things. A lot of her passion for food has come from her grandma, Mary Ann who spent nearly all her time during our visit, hunched over the stove lovingly wrapping savory golumpkis, rolling dozens of veal meatballs, and even cooking one of my husband's childhood favorites, the beloved Chrusciki (a fried pastry dough that is served covered, and I do mean covered, with powdered sugar). I share the recipe and the moments with you here today because we all come from something, and the way to find that connection is surely through the recipes and foods we love.
Chruscikis (Polish Crullers)
Recipe courtesy MaryAnn Sakich – Made 12.14.13
½ pint sour cream
9 egg yolks
4 T sugar
Pinch of salt
½ t vanilla
3 C flour
Powdered sugar for sprinkling
Beat yolks, add sugar, salt and vanilla. Add sour cream and mix. Add flour all at once. Knead dough, and then let rest for at least 10 minutes before rolling out. Roll out to 1/8 inch thick or less, making VERY thin so that when they cook there is a bit of a snap when you bite them. Slice into 1 and a half inch by 5 inch strips. Invert one end and pull through the hole. Lay on wax paper. Preheat a pan with at least 2 inches of hot oil. Add the dough, cooking only a few at a time so that each can roll and cook quickly in the hot oil. Turn over after a minute or so and cook on the other side. Take out and place on paper towels. Sprinkle generously with powdered sugar. Store out, in a bowl.
½ pint sour cream
9 egg yolks
4 T sugar
Pinch of salt
½ t vanilla
3 C flour
Powdered sugar for sprinkling
Beat yolks, add sugar, salt and vanilla. Add sour cream and mix. Add flour all at once. Knead dough, and then let rest for at least 10 minutes before rolling out. Roll out to 1/8 inch thick or less, making VERY thin so that when they cook there is a bit of a snap when you bite them. Slice into 1 and a half inch by 5 inch strips. Invert one end and pull through the hole. Lay on wax paper. Preheat a pan with at least 2 inches of hot oil. Add the dough, cooking only a few at a time so that each can roll and cook quickly in the hot oil. Turn over after a minute or so and cook on the other side. Take out and place on paper towels. Sprinkle generously with powdered sugar. Store out, in a bowl.
Or in other words, the controlled chaos of homemade pizza pies.
Yeah, you're saying, "whine, whine, whine. What could be so hard about making pizza." Well, nothing is hard, really, but there are a few details here and there that are rites of passage. And last night, because of two wonderful friends and a husband who agreed to do the dishes, we have a couple of stories to tell and photos to share.
We started this a few months ago; gathering innocently enough to make a slew of Turkish recipes courtesy Margaret Rossetti and her recent trip to the cradle of civilization, and now we're hooked on mastering some of the simple but important culinary techniques we haven't, well, mastered. A pizza seemed like a tame conquest. But wait until you scatter a bit of corn meal on a 500 degree pizza stone, without protective eye wear, and you will get a feeling for the ups and downs of dough, determination, and deliciousness.
It started with the basics: bring dough (some from Fresh Market, some from Trader Joe's...gotta say Fresh Market's dough is hand's down easier to work with and roll out), and the fresh fixings of our choice. When you're cooking at Margaret's there is no, "good enough." So our pizza sauce, olive oil, and accoutrements including the pizza peels, were all top notch. I encourage you not to skimp on any of these details.
As I arrived with my bread board and my grandmother's rolling pin in hand, we wasted no time before beginning on appetizers. Delving into a lovely group of zucchini, we began by slicing them lengthwise, then grilling, then cooling them, and rolling them up with a filling of feta, olive oil, lemon and fresh herbs. We topped them with lemon zest and ate them for energy. (You'll see the photos and I will get a copy of the recipe to acknowledge and share). It was a good way to warm up to the main course.
Now preparing the toppings is just plain fun. From funky mushrooms to whole milk mozzarella, to spinach and herbs from the garden and gigantic summer tomatoes, all that was missing was a bit of Italian music and local red wine. (We quickly found a CD with a bit of Andrea Bocelli so all was not lost!) Even rolling out the dough was pretty easy. We topped it with a layer of olive oil and a layer of the finest pizza sauce and then stacked away with all the pretty stuff. You can omit the sauce and add ANY TOPPING YOU WOULD LIKE. We especially moaned with pleasure over the addition of macerated fresh garlic. Now that is the BOMB.
However, the fun waned a bit when it was time to cook them. Why? Well, when it was time to schlep our pies into the oven, we underestimated how tricky it is to slide it off the peel or the board and into the oven. (We later learned that you use corn meal like water when it comes to greasing the pathway. We got the hang of it by the 4th pie!) Oh well. That's when you get out the pizza cutter and simple pre-slice and serve. No one need know you inverted a good half of the first pie onto the stone nearly blinding us with smoke and enlisting a "what's burning?" from the peanut gallery in the next room. "Everything is fine, drink your wine." we shouted, and sure enough, after 9 to 12 minutes we were in cheesy, herby, tomatoey, meaty and crusty heaven.
WINE: Just so you know, we served it with a Layer Cake Primitivo Zinfandel. Transcendent...
Yeah, you're saying, "whine, whine, whine. What could be so hard about making pizza." Well, nothing is hard, really, but there are a few details here and there that are rites of passage. And last night, because of two wonderful friends and a husband who agreed to do the dishes, we have a couple of stories to tell and photos to share.
We started this a few months ago; gathering innocently enough to make a slew of Turkish recipes courtesy Margaret Rossetti and her recent trip to the cradle of civilization, and now we're hooked on mastering some of the simple but important culinary techniques we haven't, well, mastered. A pizza seemed like a tame conquest. But wait until you scatter a bit of corn meal on a 500 degree pizza stone, without protective eye wear, and you will get a feeling for the ups and downs of dough, determination, and deliciousness.
It started with the basics: bring dough (some from Fresh Market, some from Trader Joe's...gotta say Fresh Market's dough is hand's down easier to work with and roll out), and the fresh fixings of our choice. When you're cooking at Margaret's there is no, "good enough." So our pizza sauce, olive oil, and accoutrements including the pizza peels, were all top notch. I encourage you not to skimp on any of these details.
As I arrived with my bread board and my grandmother's rolling pin in hand, we wasted no time before beginning on appetizers. Delving into a lovely group of zucchini, we began by slicing them lengthwise, then grilling, then cooling them, and rolling them up with a filling of feta, olive oil, lemon and fresh herbs. We topped them with lemon zest and ate them for energy. (You'll see the photos and I will get a copy of the recipe to acknowledge and share). It was a good way to warm up to the main course.
Now preparing the toppings is just plain fun. From funky mushrooms to whole milk mozzarella, to spinach and herbs from the garden and gigantic summer tomatoes, all that was missing was a bit of Italian music and local red wine. (We quickly found a CD with a bit of Andrea Bocelli so all was not lost!) Even rolling out the dough was pretty easy. We topped it with a layer of olive oil and a layer of the finest pizza sauce and then stacked away with all the pretty stuff. You can omit the sauce and add ANY TOPPING YOU WOULD LIKE. We especially moaned with pleasure over the addition of macerated fresh garlic. Now that is the BOMB.
However, the fun waned a bit when it was time to cook them. Why? Well, when it was time to schlep our pies into the oven, we underestimated how tricky it is to slide it off the peel or the board and into the oven. (We later learned that you use corn meal like water when it comes to greasing the pathway. We got the hang of it by the 4th pie!) Oh well. That's when you get out the pizza cutter and simple pre-slice and serve. No one need know you inverted a good half of the first pie onto the stone nearly blinding us with smoke and enlisting a "what's burning?" from the peanut gallery in the next room. "Everything is fine, drink your wine." we shouted, and sure enough, after 9 to 12 minutes we were in cheesy, herby, tomatoey, meaty and crusty heaven.
WINE: Just so you know, we served it with a Layer Cake Primitivo Zinfandel. Transcendent...
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My name is Camine Pappas and I love to create beautiful and delicious food that anyone can make. My signature style centers around a love for combining things in a way you might not expect as I work to find a hidden combination of colors, textures and flavors from the things that are in my pantry and/or easy to obtain.
Want to get spontaneous with me? It's pretty exciting. Let's all find out what happens when, "I Feel Like Cooking."
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