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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 

OVEN BAKED ACORN SQUASH WITH QUINOA

OVEN BAKED ACORN SQUASH WITH QUINOA

Acorn squash might be one of fall’s most beloved vegetables. This delicious recipe takes your acorn squash to another level and helps you with the fall celebration. Sevrce 2 to 4 Prep 15 minutes Cooking time about 60 minutes For the oven roasted acorn INGREDIENTS: 

HOMEMADE PIZZA

HOMEMADE PIZZA

It’s finally here. October is National Pizza Month and let us not be confused with National Pizza Day which is February 9. Pizza definitely needs more than one day to be celebrated. INGREDIENTS: CRUST 2 cups of all-purpose flour 2/3-cup warm water 1 package of 

ROASTED ACORN SQUASH SOUP

ROASTED ACORN SQUASH SOUP

The best flavors of fall come together in this delicious Acorn squash soup. INGREDIENTS: 2 Medium size whole Acorn squash cut in halves Mirepoix: 1 whole onion chopped, 1 stack of celery chopped, 1 carrot peeled and cut 2 sprigs of thyme 1 clove of garlic 5 

ROASTED BEETS WITH GOAT CHEESE

ROASTED BEETS WITH GOAT CHEESE

Roasting is the best method when it comes to cooking beets as it retains their bright colors and their natural sweet flavor. INGREDIENTS: 1/2 Lb beets, trimmed  6 Oz. Fresh goat cheese 2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste 

SUMMER TOMATO SALAD WITH FETA CHEESE

SUMMER TOMATO SALAD WITH FETA CHEESE

The better your tomatoes, the better this will be. It is quick, simple, and perfect for hot summer days. INGREDIENTS: 1 Lb.Tomato sliced into rounds  1/2  small red onion pickled 1 thinly slice garlic clove 1 sprig of fresh thyme 4 Oz. Fresh feta cheese  

SUMMER NIÇOISE SALAD

SUMMER NIÇOISE SALAD

This salad is a perfect main course for a summer evening. INGREDIENTS: 1 cup cooked red potatoes 1 cup blanched green peas 1/2 butter lettuce 1 thinly slice radish 1 cup cherry tomato cut in halves 1/4 cup Niçoise olive 4 anchovies  2 hardboiled egg 

HEALTHY SNACKING

HEALTHY SNACKING

Summertime is the perfect time to enjoy the outdoors ; beaches, parks and picnics, which means it is very important to choose healthy snacks to keep you energized throughout the day. This sweet potato chips pair well with my homemade corn salsa as they hold 

SUMMER TOMATO SALAD

SUMMER TOMATO SALAD

Summer may be coming to a close, but right now is the best time to make a simple tomato salad. 

SUMMER PEACH SALAD

SUMMER PEACH SALAD

A delicious salad features perfect combination of juicy peaches and sweet tomatoes. Fresh goat cheese and the honey comb add a luxurious richness to the texture. INGREDIENTS: 2 medium peach pitted and sliced 1/2 small red onion thinly sliced 1 fresh tomato sliced Honey comb 

BLTEA SANDWICH; BACON, LETTUCE, TOMATO, EGG & AVOCADO

BLTEA SANDWICH; BACON, LETTUCE, TOMATO, EGG & AVOCADO

The standard combination of bacon, lettuce and tomato can not be denied, but adding the avocado and egg take this sandwich to the next level, especially when the sandwich is homemade with fresh ingredients. INGREDIENTS: SERVE 2 3 slices thick-cut smoked bacon cooked  4 slices 

CLASSIC FRENCH MERINGUES

CLASSIC FRENCH MERINGUES

This is the best and the simplest meringue recipe you can come across. Once you master making this classic meringue, the sky is the limit on how you can use it, from dollops and pavlova bases to lemon meringue tarts. INGREDIENTS: 4 large egg whites 

FRESH STRAWBERRIES WITH BALSAMIC VINEGAR

FRESH STRAWBERRIES WITH BALSAMIC VINEGAR

One of the simplest way but most exquisite to enjoy fresh strawberries is with a drizzle of fine balsamic vinegar. A winning combination between the sweetness of the strawberries and the mellow tartness of the balsamic vinegar. INGREDIENTS: 1/2 Lb. strawberry trimmed of their top and 

WHIPPED MASCARPONE WITH F RESH STRAWBERRIES

WHIPPED MASCARPONE WITH F RESH STRAWBERRIES

A beautiful mascarpone recipe that has nothing to do with the classic Italian Tiramisu.  Fresh strawberries and cherries topped on whipped mascarpone cheese will impress your friends and family this summer. INGREDIENTS: Fresh strawberries cut in halves Fresh cherries pitted and cut in halves  1/2 cup 

CHICKPEAS FUSILLI WITH HOMEMADE SUN-DRIED TOMATO PESTO

CHICKPEAS FUSILLI WITH HOMEMADE SUN-DRIED TOMATO PESTO

This pasta can be served warm or cold during summer time. It is healthy and fast, especially if you make the sun-dried tomato pesto in advance. Sun-dried tomato pesto has a bold flavor perfect match for this chickpeas pasta. INGREDIENTS: 1/2 Lb. chickpeas pasta  3/4 

SEARED COD

SEARED COD

INGREDIENTS: 1 Lb. fresh cod fillets cut to 4 inch pieces  2-tablespoon olive oil  1 clove of garlic crushed 1 sprig of thyme Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste STEPS: Pat-dry the cod with paper towel and season with salt and pepper and olive 

CLASSIC PATATAS BRAVAS

CLASSIC PATATAS BRAVAS

I am sharing a Spanish classic that’s not only easy to make but it is amazingly delicious. As an old-school chef, I really enjoy the original and the classic dishes such as this Patatas Bravas.  INGREDIENTS: 1 Lb. potato peeled, cut to same size pieces 

ROASTED CAULIFLOWER WITH TURMERIC

ROASTED CAULIFLOWER WITH TURMERIC

Roasted cauliflower with turmeric and almonds Roasting is one of my favorite ways to cook vegetables, especially cauliflower as it locks in the flavors and brings up natural sugars and gives a unique texture.  SERVE 4 INGREDIENTS: 1/2 pound cauliflower trimmed and cut to florets 2 

CITRUS SALAD WITH FRESH LAVENDER

CITRUS SALAD WITH FRESH LAVENDER

Citrus Salad with mint, honey and fresh lavender. The simple ingredients in this refreshing salad provide a beautiful blend of flavors and vibrant colors. SERVE 4 INGREDIENTS: 1 each orange, grapefruit and blood orange peeled and sliced crosswise 1 tablespoon fresh lavender  1/2 shallots thinly 

QUICK CURED TROUT FILLETS

QUICK CURED TROUT FILLETS

Curing fish at home is not that hard, it is so simple as it is nothing more than salt, sugar and some seasoning. In this recipe, the curing process takes only 4 hours, so you can still enjoy your salt-cured trout on a bagel or rustic 

CHICKPEAS PASTA SALAD

CHICKPEAS PASTA SALAD

This is a very tasty springtime dish that brings out the delicate flavor of the vegetables. In this recipe, I cooked chickpeas shells pasta with seasonal ingredients but when it comes to pasta salads, the sky is the limit. You can pair it with your 

PERFECTLY SEARED TROUT FILLETS

PERFECTLY SEARED TROUT FILLETS

For lunch or dinner, try this easy-to-make seared trout recipe. It is so good, you will think you are on vacation.  SERVE 4 INGREDIENTS: 4 trout fillets 3 tablespoons olive oil 1/2 Lemon zest for garnish  2 cloves of garlic 4 Sprigs of thyme Chopped 

FARFALLE WITH BASIL PESTO

FARFALLE WITH BASIL PESTO

If you are looking for a classic pasta dish that can be enjoyed hot or cold; Farfalle with basil pesto is the one. I love the Farfalle bows pasta, its raffled edges shape makes it perfect to capture the pesto and its curves absorb more 

FISH STOCK (FUMET)

FISH STOCK (FUMET)

I have received a lot of local trouts recently and I would like to take advantage of all the trimmings (heads, bones, tails) by making fish stock or fish fumet. Fortunately, it takes about 20 minutes to get a tasty and delicate fish stock unlike 

TROUT IN A PARCHMENT  PAPER (TROTA AL CARTOCCIO)

TROUT IN A PARCHMENT PAPER (TROTA AL CARTOCCIO)

Fish cooked in foil or parchment paper is a great way to retain all its flavor and moisture. Trout fillets are perfect for this method of cooking. I like that you can add just anything, herbs, spices, olives and so on. INGREDIENTS: 1 trout cleaned and 

HOW TO SELECT FRESH FISH

HOW TO SELECT FRESH FISH

It is trout season and I would like to share some useful tips on how to select fresh fish. First, fresh fish should have no smell.  The eyes should be clear and not sunken or depressed  The skin should be bright and shining.  The scales 

DUTCH BABY PANCAKE RECIPE

DUTCH BABY PANCAKE RECIPE

This cast iron pan oven-baked pancake will impress your brunch guest. You can make it sweet or savory variations as you can add many different types of fruit, nuts, chocolate, cheese, eggs or bacon… INGREDIENTS: 3 eggs 1/2 cup flour 1/2 cup milk 1 tablespoon 

PERFECTLY SEARED SCALLOPS

PERFECTLY SEARED SCALLOPS

The scallops are naturally sweet, tender and delicate in flavor. When cooked perfectly, they are crispy on the outside and soft, tender on the inside. INGREDIENTS: 1/2 Lb. scallops 1 tablespoon olive oil 2 tablespoon unsalted butter Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste STEPS: 

CLASSIC DILL PICKLE RECIPE

CLASSIC DILL PICKLE RECIPE

I like to keep the pickles firm and crunchy. In this recipe, you can enjoy dill pickle without the long fermentation time as well as I have used different mixed spices which render the brining process very flavorful.  INGREDIENTS: 3 Lb. pickling cucumbers scrubbed & washed  

ROASTED CAULIFLOWER

ROASTED CAULIFLOWER

Cauliflower is quickly becoming everyone’s new favorite side dish; and my favorite way to cook it is roasting it. In this recipe, I added sliced onions and apples for more sweetness and flavors. INGREDIENTS: 1/2 pound cauliflower trimmed and cut into 1/4 inch slice 2 

SEARED COD WITH SICILIAN PESTO

SEARED COD WITH SICILIAN PESTO

Sicilian style pesto, it is not a made up combination based on sun-dried- tomatoes, but it is actually 100% Sicilian pesto. I not only used this delicious pesto for pasta, but it is great with fish as in this recipe. INGREDIENTS: 3/4 cup dried tomato 

SPINACH TAGLIATELLE WITH BUTTER SAGE SAUCE

SPINACH TAGLIATELLE WITH BUTTER SAGE SAUCE

Beautiful long green ribbons made with egg dough and spinach. This is step by step on how to make fresh spinach pasta. INGREDIENTS: For the pasta: 200 g flour 00 plus extra for dusting 2 eggs 50 g spinach blanched (water squeezed out) and chopped For 

ROASTED CHICKEN WITH ORANGE WEDGES & CARROTS

ROASTED CHICKEN WITH ORANGE WEDGES & CARROTS

Crispy, golden, salty skin and flavorful juice that is why roasted chicken is one of my favorite dishes. In this recipe, the combination of the orange and carrot adds sweetness and citrusy to the dish.  INGREDIENTS: 1 1/2 lb. chicken  1 cup orange juice 1/2 Lb. 

TRADITIONAL TIRAMISU

TRADITIONAL TIRAMISU

I think it is one of the most famous classic Italian desserts. Creamy custard-like layers topped with Espresso soaked lady fingers which will certainly lift you up. INGREDIENTS: 3 eggs 3 cups Mascarpone cheese 2/3 cup sugar 3 cups cold brewed espresso or strong coffee  1