get your yummy back

musings from a health supportive culinary artist

Spaghetti Squash with Toasted Almonds September 25, 2011

Filed under: how to make it — chezdesblog @ 7:29 pm
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Spaghetti squash is a wonderful thing. Upon opening a spaghetti squash, the flesh appears solid. Once cooked, the flesh falls apart into beautiful yellow strands, like spaghetti. In this recipe for Spaghetti Squash with Toasted Almonds, it’s dressed with a delightful honey/cumin/lime dressing and topped with toasted almonds and scallions. Yummy!

I’ve also seen cooked spaghetti squash tossed with chopped tomatoes, basil and feta; sauteed with butter and fresh herbs; or served with tomato sauce and parmesan like spaghetti. It’s easy to cook. Simply cut the squash in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. Brush the cut sides with a little olive oil and roast them (cut side down) in a baking dish or on a sheet pan at 400 degrees for about 40-50 minutes, until tender. Let the squash cool for a minute before shredding the flesh with a fork. So simple, healthy, tasty, and versatile. What are you waiting for?

 

Chickpea-Spinach Curry with Yogurt Sauce September 18, 2011

photo courtesy of realsimple.com

This super yummy Chickpea-Spinach Curry with Yogurt Sauce is deceptively simple and quick to pull together. Designed as a main course served with some naan and fresh mixed greens, I served it as a side dish paired with chicken. It came together in minutes, making it suitable for week nights and dinner guests!

If you like chickpeas as much as I do, you might also try this delicious Chickpea Noodle Soup, Moroccan-Style Chickpea and Vegetable Stew, or this Tangy Lentil and Chickpea Soup.

I found this particular recipe in a Real Simple article with recipes for one-month’s worth of easy dinners. It’s a great resource for menu ideas and inspiration – shopping lists are included – check it out!


 

Portobello Pizzas! September 11, 2011

Filed under: how to make it — chezdesblog @ 4:52 pm
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Sometimes, when I want to make pizza for dinner, I don’t feel up to the task of making the dough for pizza crust. (Simple as it is). Given that it’s against my DNA to actually purchase prepared pizza dough, this recipe for Portobello Pizzas is a great way to enjoy my favorite pizza toppings and flavors piled high on a sturdy, healthy, tasty, portobello mushrooom cap. Quickly.

Portobello mushrooms are simply crimini mushrooms that have matured to a certain size.  Often described as “earthy” and “meaty,” portobellos are substantial on their own, and delicious as a meal topped with pizza fixings. Various combinations of spreads (marinara sauce, pesto), cheeses, seasonal vegetables, cooked and cured meats and herbs make this dish new every time you make it. Enjoy!

 

Marinated White Bean Salad September 4, 2011

Filed under: how to make it — chezdesblog @ 2:47 pm
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Over the weekend, I found some of my Mom’s old recipe boxes. She had several, organized by category – appetizer, salads, desserts, etc. I’ve been clinging to these over the years since she passed away. I love sifting through the recipe cards, seeing her hand writing, discovering what she found worthy of clipping, deciphering her notes, additions, and substitutions.

I came across this recipe for Marinated White Bean Salad, hand-written by one of her best friends. I imagine Mom loving this salad at some event and asking for her friend for the recipe. Remember recipe cards? Mom’s friend transcribed the recipe onto a card – “For: Barb,” “From the Kitchen of: Susan,” “Serves: 12 for a party.”

I can see why she wanted this recipe – these beans are simply delicious! They make a wonderful and versatile side dish. Make them for yourself, and then share the recipe with a friend!

 

 
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