Archive | June, 2012

Spinach salad with chicken, fruit and goat cheese

When it’s hot, turning on the oven is about the last thing you want to do. Relax and pour yourself a glass of Chardonnay, (Recommended: La Crema Chardonnay, Russian River Valley) no cooking is required in this recipe, unless you roast your own chicken (see below). This salad combines fresh baby spinach, tender chicken, crisp […]

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Maple-Mustard Vinaigrette

This dressing combines walnut oil, apple cider vinegar, stone-ground mustard, and maple syrup making for a sweet, slightly tart, and nutty accompaniment to a variety of salads. This dressing pairs great with spinach salads that feature fruit or nuts. Try it atop this spinach salad with chicken, fruit, and goat cheese. Active Time: 5 minutes […]

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How to: Slice an avocado

   We’ve all been there: that mess – unintentionally reminiscent of guacamole – on the floor, pit under the fridge, knife in one hand, and avocado mush on the other. Yes, slicing an avocado can be tricky and downright disastrous, especially when using a dull knife. This easy-to-learn technique, however, will have you slicing and […]

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Coconut Shrimp with dipping sauces

This dish is baked making it low-fat and healthier than its fried counterpart, but not lacking any of the flavor. Succulent shrimp are coated with a light batter and topped with a sweet crunch of coconut. Choose from a sweet chutney-style dipping sauce or a smokey chipotle mayo to give your taste buds a kick. […]

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Roasted spaghetti squash with asparagus, red onion, and feta

Roasting spaghetti squash is probably the simplest method of preparation but also enhances the sweetness of the squash. Combined with slightly crunchy asparagus, aromatic red onion, and the tangy creaminess of feta cheese, and you have a side dish perfect for any season. Serve with your favorite grilled meat this summer or pork tenderloin in […]

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Sausage, Mushroom & Spinach Lasagna

Lasagna – even if you have no Italiano in your genes – is just like your nonna made it. Yes, lots of care goes into concocting the comforting combination of gooey mozzarella, ricotta, and parmesan, savory tomato sauce, spicy sausage, and aromatic basil, but the added cook time is worth it. Serve with your favorite […]

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Kitchen Essentials

Before tackling any recipe, a home chef must have an exceptionally stocked pantry. A dull knife can easily chop any cooking motivation you may have had and cooking in the wrong pan is a fast-track to take-out or delivery. Don’t be daunted by the list below, everyone knows Rome wasn’t built in a day after […]

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