Monday

16

February 2015

Vegetarian Lasagne

Written by Rachel, Posted in Cheese, Dinner, Eggs, Fruit, Herbs, Main Dishes, Pasta, Roasting, Vegetables, Vegetarian

I think that homemade pasta is one of the most rewarding things to eat. Maybe after baguettes… maybe tied. In any case, gosh it’s good. Every time I make it I swear that I’m never buying pasta again (and then I totally do). Since homemade lasagne is one of Tim’s favorite meals, I know that I’ve always got a winner on my hands when I combine the two.

If you’re not quite up to the homemade pasta challenge, that’s totally fine. But, if you are, I used a recipe from Alana Chernila’s cookbook, The Homemade Pantry. It turned out great. In the past, I’ve used another recipe that called for waaaaay more eggs. I thought that this one tasted just as good, and it only called for three eggs. Winner.

Making homemade pasta is a seriously time consuming task. It’s well worth it though. It was nice to be forced to do just one thing. To stand and wait for the pasta to roll through the attachment that I have for my KitchenAid. How often am I still, just listening to the food as it’s being shaped? Not often enough.

Maybe because I was already tuned in, I noticed the way the sage popped and crackled after I took it out of the pan of hot browned butter.

Things like this make my heart a little bit lighter.

Once the pasta was rolled out and drying, once the sage was cooked and set aside, fresh greens were chopped up for the tomatoey sauce. Tons of greens. I used chard, collards, and white choi. Any greens that you have on hand will do just fine.

Now, here’s where I need to make a small note. I used diced tomatoes in the greens. My preference would be tomato sauce. But, since I’d already spent like five hours on the dish at this point, I didn’t want to take an extra ten minutes to blend the tomatoes. Tim didn’t mind them diced though. So, just a note that you could do it either way, and I think it would be great. Ok? Ok.

I roasted some butternut squash. This recipe needs about the equivalent of one large squash. I had two on the counter, so I roasted them both at the same time. One for this dish, another to go in the freezer for another time. The squash is mixed with some salt and pepper. Easy.

I went simple when it came to the cheese in this dish. You could also add mozzarella or ricotta (or both!), if you want to. I’m not usually opposed to more cheese, ever. But, parmesan is what I had in the fridge, and I’m trying to be better at using what we have on hand.

I let the pasta dry while I cooked up the tomatoes and greens. Then, once everything else was ready, the pasta got a quick dunk in some boiling water. Just for a minute, if it’s fresh pasta (if you’re using store bought, follow the instructions on the package).

And finally, assembly time (which means closer to eating time). Greens in the bottom, noodle, squash, cheese, repeat. I made two individual ramekins for dinner, and then a loaf pan sized one to put into the freezer for another day. You could also make an 8x8ish pan and I think the amount of ingredients would come out about the same.

The lasagne is served topped with those crunchy sage leaves and a squeeze of lemon.

Happy Eating!

Vegetarian Lasagne

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 60 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour, 20 minutes

Yield: 4

Vegetarian Lasagne

Ingredients

1 t olive oil
1 butternut squash, halved, seeds removed
10-12 lasagne noodles, fresh if you have them
2 T butter, divided
8 sage leaves
6-8 C greens (any greens will do: chard, collards, red or white choi, bok choy, kale, spinach, Tokyo bekana, mizuna...)
3 cloves garlic, diced
1 T balsamic vinegar
2-3 C diced tomatoes (or 3 C tomato sauce)
to taste salt
to taste pepper
pinch cayenne
1 1/2 C parmesan cheese, grated
lemon slices, for serving

Instructions

Pre-heat oven to 350F. Drizzle squash with olive oil. Place cut side down on a baking sheet. Roast for 60 minutes (or until flesh pierces easily with a fork). Scoop out flesh and mix with some salt and pepper.
While squash roasts, heat skillet over medium heat. Add 1 T butter. Fry sage, 1 minute per side. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Add 1 T butter to the sage skillet and turn the heat down to medium-low. Add greens, salt, and pepper. Wilt down, turning often, for about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more. Add balsamic vinegar and cook for 1 minute more. Add tomatoes through cayenne. Increase heat to medium and simmer for about 5-10 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Par cook lasagne noodles in boiling salted water for about 1 minute (fresh) (or according to package directions for store bought). Remove with a slotted spoon and spread out on a plate.
In a greased 8x8 or 9x9 oven proof pan (or 2 individual ramekins and 1 loaf pan), spread a bit of the tomato mixture on the bottom, top with a noodle, a scoop of squash, and some cheese. Repeat 4 or 5 times, or until pan is full or ingredients are gone, ending with squash and cheese.
Bake for about 30 minutes.
Serve topped with crumbled sage leaves and a squeeze of lemon.

http://www.de-ma-cuisine.com/vegetarian-lasagne/

Monday

9

February 2015

0

COMMENTS

Loaded Chicken and Rice Soup

Written by Rachel, Posted in Dinner, Fruit, Gluten Free, Herbs, Leftovers, Lunch, Main Dishes, Meat, One Dish Dinners, Poultry, Quick and Easy, Rice, Soups, Vegetables

I’m a sucker for a good bowl of soup. I think we’ve had three different kinds over the past four days. I love it. I can’t get enough of it. It can be hearty and filling, or a light start to a meal. It can be simple, like French Onion, or have a myriad of ingredients. Soups are a great way to get loads of veggies into a meal, and they’re a fabulous place to hide leftovers. Yes, soups are my favorite.

This one is no different. The goal was to make a veggie laden, leftover using, Chicken and Rice Soup.

It started with carrots and radishes. The carrots were fresh from this week’s box of produce. The radishes were extra from another meal, that I’d chopped and frozen so they wouldn’t go to waste.

We’re getting so many greens in our boxes that I’ve been making a lot of Stir Fry, like this Red Choi Stir Fry from the other week. I’d planned ahead and made double the rice, so there were leftovers for the soup.

Winner winner, chicken and rice soup for dinner.

After the initial veggies were fairly tender, everything else joined them in the soup pot. I made some Sliced Roasted Butternut Squash for dinner last night, to go along with some chicken thighs that I par-cooked on the stovetop, then finished in the oven. I used the leftovers from both in the soup.

Leftovers 0, Rach 3.

After everything bubbled around for a while (but not too long, since it was all cooked already), I added some milk. I used coconut milk, because I had some that I needed to use up. Use whatever kind you have on hand. The milk just needs to warm through for a minute or two. Don’t let it boil, or the soup may break.

And then, for the finishing touches, I stirred in some fresh parsley and a knob of butter.

This soup is best eaten with your favorite someone or alone standing at the kitchen island while you read a book. Fresh bread is essential for dipping and sopping up anything the spoon leaves behind. A slice of lemon is a perfect way to brighten a bit – just squeeze over top right before eating.

And, if it’s possible, this soup may be even better the next day (or a few days later – it freezes well).

Happy Eating!

Loaded Chicken and Rice Soup

Ingredients

1-2 T olive oil
1 C carrot (or parsnip), chopped
1 C radish (or cauliflower), chopped
to taste, salt
3 cloves garlic, diced
2 T balsamic vinegar
1/2 t dried rosemary (or 1 t fresh), broken or chopped
1 t fresh thyme (or 1/2 t dried)
1/2 t paprika
1 C cooked chicken, chopped or shredded (I used leftovers)*
2 C rice, cooked (I used leftovers)***
2-3 C greens (like hon tsai tai, komatsuna, Tokyo bekana, chard, kale, collards, or spinach), chopped
1 1/2-2 C winter squash, chopped (I used leftovers)**
5-6 C chicken stock
1 C milk (any kind)
1-2 T fresh parsley, chopped
1 T unsalted butter (optional)
lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

(*If you're not using leftover chicken, cook it now, let it cool slightly, remove from bones and shred or chop.)
Heat a soup pot over medium-low heat. Add the oil and when it's hot, add the carrots through salt (**unless you're using uncooked winter squash - if you are, add it now). Cook for 7-9 minutes, or until veggies are relatively tender. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more. Stir in balsamic vinegar, cook for 1 minute.
Add rosemary through stock. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for about 13 minutes, or until veggies are tender (***if you're not using leftover rice, also add 1/2 C raw brown rice now, along with an extra 1 C stock and cook until rice is tender). Add milk and cook for 2 minutes more (do not boil).
Remove from heat and stir in parsley and butter. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve with a squeeze of lemon.

http://www.de-ma-cuisine.com/loaded-chicken-and-rice-soup/

Monday

26

January 2015

0

COMMENTS

Bulgur Wheat with Sausage and Apples

Written by Rachel, Posted in Cheese, Dinner, Fruit, Grains, Main Dishes, Meat, Pork, Quick and Easy, Rice, Sausage, Vegetables

I am a big fan of quick weeknight dinners. I’m all for slow-cooked, braised, take the whole afternoon to cook kinda meals. But, most weekdays I’m tired, there are dirty dishes in the sink, and I just want to eat something. Now.

This dish kinda has it all. It’s simple, but satisfying. Especially if you have some crusty bread with butter to go alongside. We did not, but maybe if I plan ahead for eating the leftovers we will. 😉

Bulgur wheat is one of my go-tos. It’s similar tasting to brown rice, but cooks quicker. Also, bulgur is a fun word to say. The dog is staring at my while I repeat it to myself right now.

I made this over the summer for the first time. I used zucchini. Since it’s winter and I had a bunch of carrots in my garden, that’s what I used this time. They went nicely with the apple-sausage combination I had going on. I think butternut squash or sweet potatoes would also taste great, if that’s what you have on hand.

While the bulgur cooks, the rest of the meal comes together. It’s a really quick and easy dinner to prepare. A little chopping, two pots, and you’re ready to go.

I added a few spoonfuls of plain yogurt and a splash of whole milk for creaminess. And the first time I made it, I added some parmesan cheese. I didn’t have any this time, but if I did, I’d definitely add it, so I left it in the recipe.

We will probably have the leftovers for dinner tonight, even though I haven’t figured out the bread situation.

Happy Eating!

Bulgur Wheat with Sausage and Apples

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Yield: Serves 3 or so.

Bulgur Wheat with Sausage and Apples

Ingredients

1 C bulgur wheat (I used coarse) (could use brown rice or quinoa to make it gluten-free - adjust cooking time accordingly)
2 C water
1 T olive oil
1 C carrots* (or zucchini in the summer), chopped
to taste salt
to taste pepper
2 C apple, chopped
2 fully cooked sausage links (I used Argentine inspired), removed from casing (could substitute lentils to make it vegetarian)
2-3 T Greek or plain yogurt
splash whole milk (any kind you like - cow, almond, coconut...)
1/2 C parmesan, grated (optional)
lemon wedges, for serving
*butternut squash, pumpkin, mushrooms, corn, cabbage, onion, celery, leeks, spinach, or tomatoes would also be yummy additions. Cooking time may vary depending on the type of veggies used.

Instructions

Bring the bulgur and water to a boil in a medium-sized saucepan. Reduce to a simmer and cook partially covered for about 15-20 min or so (or until tender).
Heat a pan, add the olive oil, and when it's hot, add the carrots, some salt, and pepper. Cook over medium-low heat for about 5 minutes. Add the apple and cook for about 5 minutes more. Add the sausage and cook for 5 minutes more, or until the sausage is heated through.
Stir in the yogurt, milk, and parmesan. Cook for 1-2 minutes more. Taste and adjust seasoning if desired.
Serve with a squeeze of lemon.

http://www.de-ma-cuisine.com/bulgur-wheat-with-sausage-and-apples/

Thursday

8

January 2015

0

COMMENTS

Dilly Eggs with Lentils

Written by Rachel, Posted in Brunch, Dairy-Free, Dinner, Eggs, Fruit, Gluten Free, Herbs, Leftovers, Legumes, Lentils, Lunch, Main Dishes, Quick and Easy, Vegetarian

We all have our go-to meals. For me, sometimes it’s pasta, often it’s soup, more often than not, it’s eggs.

Remember last week when I wrote about lentils? I had a great idea to top sweet potatoes with them.

I also had a ton of lentils leftover.

I thought that those leftovers would be great topped with a fried egg and some dill.

I was right.

I’m kinda obsessed with dill right now. I’m not sure why. Maybe because up until a year or so ago I didn’t think I liked it. I guess it was one of those tastes that I didn’t like as a kid and had never really found a way to enjoy as a grownup. Until my friend, Christy, introduced me to it, in some of the foods she made.

Now I want to eat it in all the things. (I’ll have a Winter Salad for you soon that also uses dill… Can’t stop won’t stop.)

Back to the eggs again for a sec. The reason they’re such a go-to for me: they can be made into so many different things, in no time at all. Treats like, French Toast Stuffed with Fresh Fruit and Basil, End of the Week Pasta topped with a fried egg, scrambled into some summer squash to make Squash ‘n Eggs. And never mind all the wonders they can do to baking, or the fact that they make things like Chicken Pot Pie look so amazing when they’re used. They’re one of my best kitchen friends.

This meal is a great example of one of my favorite types of meals. Effortless, nutritious, delicious.

Simple foods.

This dish takes humble ingredients, lentils, eggs, lemon, and dill, and really lets them shine.

I will definitely be eating this again soon. Maybe for dinner tonight.

Happy Eating!

Dilly Eggs with Lentils

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 5 minutes

Yield: Serves 2

Dilly Eggs with Lentils

Ingredients

1 C cooked lentils (I used leftovers from my Lentils on Crispy Sweet Potatoes, so they were already seasoned)
1 t olive oil
2 eggs
pinch salt
1-2 t fresh dill, chopped
2 slices lemon, for serving

Instructions

Re-heat lentils until they are hot.
Heat a skillet over medium-high, add oil, then eggs. Cook until done, flipping if desired. Season with salt.
Divide lentils between two plates and top with eggs, dill, and a squeeze of lemon.

http://www.de-ma-cuisine.com/dilly-eggs-with-lentils/

Thursday

11

December 2014

0

COMMENTS

Spring Rolls with Spicy Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce

Written by Rachel, Posted in Appetizers, Dairy-Free, Dinner, Fish, Fruit, Gluten Free, Herbs, Lunch, Meat, Nuts, Quick and Easy, Sauces, Sides, Snacks, Vegan, Vegetables, Vegetarian

Today, I was inspired to try something new. Something I’ve never attempted before.

Spring Rolls.

What a fun idea!

I felt like I was playing as I cut the avocado and veggies into matchsticks.

And then as I whisked the dip and the emulsion came together, I knew I was on to something. Because honey and mustard compliment each other so well, lemon adds a bright note, and Sriracha brings the spice.

I just followed the instructions on the back of the rice paper package, which instructed me to soak the paper in warm water for 5 seconds (if your package says something different, by all means, follow those instructions).

A few long sticks (or many short sticks, depending on the type of radish used) are added to the center of the paper.

Then the paper is folded in half, keeping the sticks in the center.

Sides are folded in towards each other, then it’s all rolled up.

I don’t know if this is how an expert would make these. But, it’s how I did it, and they worked just fine.

After rolling, slice in half on a bias (because it looks fancy).

You could totally switch up the dip, if you have a favorite Asian dip to use. You could just dip in wasabi and soy sauce too. You could also play with the contents of the rolls. I think that the following would be wonderful additions (maybe not all at the same time though):

– cucumber

– cilantro

– green onions

– bean sprouts

– sugar snap peas

– napa cabbage

– sesame seeds

– almonds

– tofu

– fried tempeh

– salmon

– shrimp

– crab

Obviously, the seafood would make these not vegan. Also, I’d cook any meat I was planning to use as I prefer it that way. If you don’t, and know how to safely prepare sashimi, then go for it.

I served these raw. I liked the crisp veggies in the sticky rice paper with the sweet and spicy dip. But, maybe next time I will try cooking the filling (not the avocado though) and then pan frying for a minute or two. Could be fun. Hmmm… maybe tomorrow.

Happy Eating!

Spring Rolls with Spicy Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce

Ingredients

Dip: 2 T lemon juice
2 T dijon mustard
1 T plus 1 t honey
1 to 1 1/2 t Sriracha (or your favorite hot sauce)
2 t soy sauce
to taste salt
3 T olive oil
Rolls: 1 small ripe but firm avocado, julienned/cut into 4" matchsticks
1/2 carrot, julienned/cut into 4" matchsticks
2 celery ribs, julienned/cut into 4" matchsticks
4 small radishes, julienned/cut into 1"-4" matchsticks
(Other options could include: cucumber, cilantro, green onions, bean sprouts, napa cabbage, sugar snap peas, sesame seeds, almonds, crab, shrimp, salmon, tofu, and fried tempeh.)
10-15 pieces of rice paper
warm water

Instructions

Whisk together lemon juice through soy sauce. While whisking, stream in olive oil. Taste and adjust quantities if needed.
Follow rice paper package's instructions for soaking. (Should be around 5 seconds in warm water.) After soaking (one at a time), set on a plate and place about 4 pieces of each: avocado, carrot, celery, and radish (you may need more radishes if they are shorter pieces). Fold the paper in half, keeping the filling in the middle, fold the ends in towards each other, then roll it up. Slice in half.
Serve with sauce for dipping.

http://www.de-ma-cuisine.com/spring-rolls-with-spicy-honey-mustard-dipping-sauce/

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Vegetarian Lasagne

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Loaded Chicken and Rice Soup

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Bulgur Wheat with Sausage and Apples

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Dilly Eggs with Lentils

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Spring Rolls with Spicy Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce

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