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FAVORITE MASHED SWEET POTATOES

FAVORITE MASHED SWEET POTATOES

Mashed Sweet Potatoes is the perfect side dish to kick off the fall season. INGREDIENTS: 1 1/2 lb. pounds sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces 1/2 cup half and half or milk 3 tablespoons unsalted butter Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper to 

CREAMY CHESTNUT – APPLE SOUP

CREAMY CHESTNUT – APPLE SOUP

The chestnut soup is one of my favorite soups during wintertime. It combines the perfect nutty flavor, the creamy texture and the rich taste. I find out that the best time to buy fresh chestnuts at grocery stores in the United State is between Thanksgiving 

LOBSTER ROLL SLIDERS

LOBSTER ROLL SLIDERS

I have always loved lobster. Every summer I cook freshly caught lobsters, boiled or steamed but served with just melted butter; doing so, I always felt like I am eating my summer vacation. These lobster sliders are easy to make but are definitely delicious and 

SPRING HERB FRITTATA

SPRING HERB FRITTATA

The Garden State grows a large selection of herbs such as basil, mint, parsley, cilantro and so on. Since we are in spring season, I decided to add aroma and flavors to my frittata by using variety of local grown herbs which pair very well 

SPRING PASTA SALAD

SPRING PASTA SALAD

It is almost time for cookouts and this pasta salad is the perfect dish to enjoy outdoors with friends and family. It is delicious, refreshing, elegant and simple. INGREDIENTS: 1/2 Lb. penne pasta, cooked and cooled 1/2 cup bite size broccoli florets blanched  Asparagus heads 

FRESH STRAWBERRY SALAD WITH MASCARPONE CHEESE

FRESH STRAWBERRY SALAD WITH MASCARPONE CHEESE

Strawberries are in peak season, which means I am going to use them in everything such as this beautiful and quick dessert made with a refreshing mascarpone cheese with dead-ripe and fragrant native blueberries and sweet strawberries. FOR THE SAUCE: INGREDIENTS: 1/4 lb. of strawberries 

FRESH STRAWBERRY SALAD WITH STRAWBERRY VINAIGRETTE

FRESH STRAWBERRY SALAD WITH STRAWBERRY VINAIGRETTE

If you are looking for a light and a refreshing salad for the first day of summer, then this beautiful strawberry salad would make an excellent choice. SEVRVE 6: INGREDIENTS: FOR THE VINAIGRETTE 1/4 cup olive oil 2 Tps. cherry vinegar 1 Tsp. Dijon mustard 

STRAWBERRY & GOAT CHEESE BRUSCHETTA

STRAWBERRY & GOAT CHEESE BRUSCHETTA

The best part about strawberry picking is that at the end of the day you end up with an abundance of fresh strawberries. This strawberry Bruschetta is one of my favorite appetizers during spring and summer time when the strawberries are juicy and sweet. INGREDIENTS: 

PERSIMMON SALAD WITH POMEGRANATE SEEDS

PERSIMMON SALAD WITH POMEGRANATE SEEDS

Whisk together lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, salt and freshly ground pepper. Peel and slice crosswise the orange and grapefruit. Thinly slice the apple, the radishes and the persimmon. Combine all ingredients in a serving plate and drizzle with lemon vinaigrette. Garnish with pomegranate seeds, 

THE PERFECT BEEF BURGUNDY

THE PERFECT BEEF BURGUNDY

One of the most popular recipes during winter time is this earthy and robust dish. Beef Burgundy is delicious stew served over mushed potatoes, rice or egg noodles . I like to make a large quantity when I am having company or during the snowy 

PEAR SALAD WITH ENDIVES GORGONZOLA CHEESE AND POMEGRANATE

PEAR SALAD WITH ENDIVES GORGONZOLA CHEESE AND POMEGRANATE

Normally salads considered a mix of lettuce and raw fruits or vegetables with a dressing. Something special with colorful salad that all the ingredients  pair together. INGREDIENTS: Serve 2  2 heads Belgian endives 2 pears cored and sliced lengthwise  1 orange cut in supreme ¼ 

HOMEMADE SWEET ONION JAM & CARAMELIZED ONION

HOMEMADE SWEET ONION JAM & CARAMELIZED ONION

Sweet onion jam & caramelized onion are great accompaniment to your meat, poultry and vegetables. They also makes perfect topping for burgers, spread for sandwiches and Crostini and a delicious compliment for cheese board. SWEET ONION JAM INGREDIENTS: 1 Lb. red onion, peeled and thinly 

BEST PENNE WITH LAMB RAGÙ

BEST PENNE WITH LAMB RAGÙ

This is such a great, tasty dish. The savory flavor of the lamb combines so beautifully with the freshness of the rosemary and the bay leaf. Lamb ragù is great sauce to make during the cold season; It is warm, rich, comforting as well as 

5 HOMEMADE SALSA RECIPES

5 HOMEMADE SALSA RECIPES

These homemade Salsa recipes are all-time favorites when it comes to Sunday Football. So grab your Cerveza and dip your chips into these creative homemade salsa bowls.  ROASTED TOMATO SALSA INGREDIENTS: 1 medium white onion cleaned and quartered 2 small Jalapeños seeded 5 large roma 

PASTA AL FORNO

PASTA AL FORNO

The best part about shared family meal is that it is the perfect moment to relax, refuel and reconnect. Pasta al Forno is the ideal meal to share with friends and family in every occasion. INGREDIENTS: 1Lb. of penne Rigate pasta 1 ½ fresh plum 

HOMEMADE BEEF RAGÚ WITH FRESH PAPPARDELLE PASTA

HOMEMADE BEEF RAGÚ WITH FRESH PAPPARDELLE PASTA

Fresh handmade Pappardelle pasta coated with savory, rich and deeply flavored ragú sauce. It is absolutely delicious and totally worths the wait. INGREDIENTS: 1 lb. fresh Pappardelle pasta 2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil 2 medium onions, finely chopped  13 oz. ground beef (85% lean) 2 

ROASTED CHICKEN WITH SMOKED PAPRIKA AND CAYENNE PEPPER

ROASTED CHICKEN WITH SMOKED PAPRIKA AND CAYENNE PEPPER

Give your roasted chicken intense flavor and deep red color by rubbing it with smoked paprika and cayenne pepper. Perfectly cooked whole chicken that is tasty, juicy and tender. INGREDIENT: 1 1/2 lb. chicken patted dry with pepper towels 1 tablespoon smoked paprika 2 tablespoons extra 

PASTA E CECI (pasta and chickpeas soup)

PASTA E CECI (pasta and chickpeas soup)

Pasta with chickpeas (Pasta e Cecil) is the perfect winter soup. This Italian classic is nutritious, full of protein and rich in carbohydrates; it is just what we need once the weather gets chilly. Serves 6  Prep time 10 minutes  Cooking time 30 minutes INGREDIENTS: 

GRILLED POLENTA

GRILLED POLENTA

Polenta can be served as an appetizer, side dish or as an entrée topped with your favorite sauce. INGREDIENTS: 1 cup polenta 1 tablespoon salt  About 4 cups cold water  STEPS: In medium heavy saucepan over high heat, bring the water to a boil. Add 

KALE & CHICKPEAS SOUP

KALE & CHICKPEAS SOUP

It is a challenge to make a delicious soup with very few ingredients. In this recipe, I find out that kale, chickpeas and Fido pasta make perfect combination for a flavorful soup. INGREDIENTS: 1 shallots finely diced 1/4 cup Fido cut spaghetti  1 quarter chicken 

SPAGHETTI ALLA CARBONARA

SPAGHETTI ALLA CARBONARA

Spaghetti cooked al dente coated with creamy sauce made with sharp Pecorino cheese and rich egg yolk topped with crispy pancetta for the perfect flavor of sweetness and crunchiness. INGREDIENTS: 1 Lb. Spaghetti 1 tablespoon olive oil 4 Oz. Pancetta cut in 1/2 inch pieces 

GARLIC HERB MARINATED CHICKEN BREAST

GARLIC HERB MARINATED CHICKEN BREAST

A quick an easy recipe to serve with your favorite sides, topping your salad or as a sandwich;  using a basic garlic sauce that will quickly become your favorite go-to marinades. INGREDIENTS: 1 Lb. of chicken breast 3 garlic cloves peeled and crushed 2 tablspoons white wine 

OVEN BAKED CHICKEN WITH HOMEMADE TERIYAKI SAUCE

OVEN BAKED CHICKEN WITH HOMEMADE TERIYAKI SAUCE

Transform an ordinary chicken dinner into a delicious, flavorful alternative with this easy recipe.  Teriyaki sauce adds the perfect smooth, light flavor. INGREDIENTS: 1 Lb. Chicken thighs 2 tbsp. Extra Virgin Olive Oil Salt and freshly ground pepper FOR TERIYAKI SAUCE 7 tablespoons Japanese dark 

CLASSIC MEATLOAF

CLASSIC MEATLOAF

This classic meatloaf recipe is the ultimate comfort food.  Made with a good, organic ketchup, with no unpronounceable ingredients, fitting perfectly as a topping for my homemade meatloaf. Meatloaf makes great leftovers as well, just chill and reheat. INGREDIENTS: 1/2 LB of ground beef 1 

CLASSIC PASTA PUTTANESCA

CLASSIC PASTA PUTTANESCA

There are various stories about the name of Pasta Puttanesca, but everyone agrees that it is a dish made with simple ingredients that tastes so delicious and smells so good while it is cooking. Pasta Puttanesca is one of my favorite dishes, the saltiness of 

CRISP RÖSTI POTATOES

CRISP RÖSTI POTATOES

These potato fritters should not be mixed up with the famous latkes. Rösti potatoes are a great traditional Swiss dish, they are good for breakfast, lunch or anytime. INGREDIENTS: 1 Lb. Russet potatoes peeled 1 medium white onion chopped 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley ½ 

HOMEMADE HOT CHOCOLATE

HOMEMADE HOT CHOCOLATE

This homemade hit chocolate was designed for the cold season. Make it extra creamy by using whole milk. INGREDIENTS: 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder  2 tablespoons sugar 1 oz. bittersweet dark chocolate and some grated for garnish 2 1/2 whole milk Pinch of salt STEPS: 

MULLED WINE

MULLED WINE

This is a fairly standard recipe of mulled wine but feel free to experiment with your favorite spices and fruit that suits you best. INGREDIENTS: 1 bottle of red one 750 ml 1 cut fresh cranberries 2-anise star 6 pieces black pepper corn 6 pieces 

STUFFED GRILLED EGGPLANT

STUFFED GRILLED EGGPLANT

This dish makes a nice appetizer. The fresh tomato basil salsa makes a great combination with the grilled eggplants. A refreshing dish to enjoy with family and friends. FOR FRESH TOMATO BASIL SALSA INGREDIENTS: 2 medium tomatoes seeded and diced 1/4 white or red onion 

ROASTED CAULIFLOWER FLORETS

ROASTED CAULIFLOWER FLORETS

Roasted cauliflower florets is one of my favorite dishes. It can be served as an appetizer or as a side dish, with a dip or just with vinegar. INGREDIENTS: 1/2 Lb. cauliflower washed and cut to florets 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive Salt and freshly 

PERFECTLY PAN-SEARED SCALLOPS

PERFECTLY PAN-SEARED SCALLOPS

To get that restaurant-style seared scallops with that perfect brown crusts and juicy interiors; make sure to pat dry the scallops and use a smoking hot non-stick skillet. INGREDIENTS: 1/2 Lb. scallops 1 tablespoon olive oil 2 tablespoon unsalted butter Salt and freshly ground pepper 

PENNE RIGATE WITH MEATBALLS

PENNE RIGATE WITH MEATBALLS

You can use any type of pasta you have available. In this recipe, I used short pasta such as penne rigate because it matches perfectly with the consistency of the dish and its shape make it kids-friendly as this dish becomes a family favorite. SERVE 

BUTTER SAUTÉED APPLE

BUTTER SAUTÉED APPLE

This recipe is extremely easy to prepare and it makes perfect garnish for pancakes and waffles aw well as good accompaniment for poultry and meat. INGREDIENTS: 2 large apples peeled, cored and cut to cubes 3 tablespoons butter 2 tablespoons brown sugar 1 sprig of 

CHICKPEAS ZITI WITH BASIL PESTO & STRING BEANS

CHICKPEAS ZITI WITH BASIL PESTO & STRING BEANS

Chickpeas pasta meets its match in this recipe, fresh basil pesto and string beans made a great combination for an elegant meal. Blanching my string beans using the same water for cooking the pasta helped me minimizing dirty pots and saving time. INGREDIENTS: FOR THE 

PERFECT WNTER SALAD

PERFECT WNTER SALAD

This light and refreshing salad has winter season written all over it. I love the combination of the Brussel sprout and Belgium endives. For some added crunch, I sprinkle toasted shaved almonds. INGREDIENTS: Serve 2  PREP TIME 15 MINUTES 2 heads of Belgian endives  2 

TUSCAN WHITE BEANS WITH TOMATO SAUCE

TUSCAN WHITE BEANS WITH TOMATO SAUCE

So filling, this make a warming soup supper during the cold days. This soup just makes the whole house smell so warm and cozy. INGREDIENTS: ½ pound dry Cannellini beans 3-tablespoon olive oil 3-tablespoon tomato paste 2 cloves of garlic crushed 1 Bay leaf 3 

OVEN BAKED WHOLE PEARS

OVEN BAKED WHOLE PEARS

This recipe is so simple, but it tastes as delicious as it looks.  Whole Juicy pears with the stems on baked in honey and topped with silvered almonds. INGREDIENTS: 4 firm-ripe Posc pears peeled  1/2 cup honey 1/3 white wine 1 tablespoon melted unsalted butter  1/2 

BAKED BRIE WITH CRANBERRY SAUCE & POMEGRANATE

BAKED BRIE WITH CRANBERRY SAUCE & POMEGRANATE

There are many delicious variation of cranberry sauce. The apple and the orange juice makes great combination for a tangy and sweet taste. INGREDIENTS: 12 Oz. Bag of fresh cranberries 1 cup brown sugar 1 cinnamon stick 1/2 cup orange juice 1 anise star 1 

ROASTED POTATO WEDGES

ROASTED POTATO WEDGES

Roasted potato wedges are as satisfying as potato fries but without the grease, they are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. It is easy and delicious; makes perfect side dish for your Christmas dinner. INGREDIENTS: 1/2 Lb. Russet potatoes pealed and cut 

PERFECT ROAST CHICKEN

PERFECT ROAST CHICKEN

This is truly a remarkable and impressive dinner that is so easy to make. If you are looking for easy recipe to make this holiday season that will feed a crown, look no further. This roasted chicken is flavorful, juicy  and delicious served with your 

SAUTÉED BRUSSELS SPROUTS WITH CARROTS & POMEGRANATE

SAUTÉED BRUSSELS SPROUTS WITH CARROTS & POMEGRANATE

If you are looking for Brussels sprouts recipe to make this Christmas, try this sautéed Brussels sprouts with carrots and pomegranate. INGREDIENTS: 1/2 Lb. Brussels sprouts trimmed and cut into quarters 2 blanched peeled carrots cut into 1/2 inch pieces 1 tablespoon unsalted butter   

ROASTED TOMATO SOUP

ROASTED TOMATO SOUP

My favorite version for this recipe is adding the carrots, celery, onion and fresh basil leaves, otherwise the tomato soup will end up tasting like a marinara or tomato sauce.  Moreover, I have found that roasting the tomatoes will elevate them and add rich flavor 

FARRO SOUP

FARRO SOUP

I like farro, it is nutty, chewy and low in gluten. Farro is a nutritious grain and can be used in soups, salads and deserts. This flavorful soup is so hearty and comforting, perfect for cold winter days. Serves 4 Prep time about 15 minutes 

SPICY  ROASTED POTATO WEDGES

SPICY ROASTED POTATO WEDGES

This is a family favorite when it comes to side dish.  INGREDIENTS: 4 large Idaho potatoes peeled and cut into 1/2 inch wedges 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil 1 tablespoon of smoked paprika  1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper Salt and freshly ground pepper to 

BAKED BRIE

BAKED BRIE

Creamy cheese topped with warm honey-nuts mixture is a classic combination; the sweetness of the topping makes perfect balance with the creaminess of the cheese. INGREDIENTS: 8 Oz. wheels of brie cheese 1/2 cup honey 2 tbsps walnuts 1/2 tbsp toasted silvered almonds 2 tbsps 

ROASTED BUTTERNUT SQUASH & APPLE SOUP

ROASTED BUTTERNUT SQUASH & APPLE SOUP

Some of the best fall flavors comes to butternut squash and apple. They are perfect combination for a warm and comforting soup on a chilly fall day. INGREDIENTS: 1 medium whole butternut squash cut in halves 1 whole apples peeled and cored  1/2 white onion 

ROASTED BUTTERNUT SQUASH

ROASTED BUTTERNUT SQUASH

So you love butternut squash season but you are tired of making the same old soup. Luckily; there is a big selection on how to use it such as roasted butternut squash cubes which are great for salads, stuffing, pasta and so on. SERVE: 2 

CREAMY TOMATO BISQUE

CREAMY TOMATO BISQUE

Soup season is going strong. A hot bowl of creamy tomato bisque is comforting on a chilly fall day. INGREDIENTS: 1 ½ Lb. ripe fresh tomato washed and cut 1 medium shallot diced 3-½ cups vegetables stock 1 clove garlic crushed 2 cups whole milk 

ROASTED FALL VEGETABLES WITH FRESH HERBS

ROASTED FALL VEGETABLES WITH FRESH HERBS

A combination of colorful roasted vegetables is perfect side dish to kick off fall season. INGREDIENTS: 4 cup assorted vegetables (such as carrot, russet potatoes, white onion, turnip, cherry tomato, parsnip, butternut squash) cut into 1 inch pieces  2 cloves of garlic cherry tomatoes 1