get your yummy back

musings from a health supportive culinary artist

How to Grill Mahimahi April 29, 2012

Filed under: how to make it,where to get it — chezdesblog @ 11:42 am
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This year, I am working more fish into our diet. In a veiled attempt to support my cookbook habit, I decided I needed some resources to support this effort. I think I found two of the best – For Cod and Country by Barton Seaver and Good Fish by Becky Selengut (the perfect gift from my sister!).

In the first of a series of posts about my experiences preparing more fish at home, I bring you the easiest, most delicious recipe for Grilled Mahimahi. This method for grilling has revolutionized my thinking regarding grilling fish. The premise is so very simple, yet one I never considered – manage the heat of the grill by moving the grill grate, not the fish. Once it hits the grill, the fish remains undisturbed until it’s cooked. No trying to flip it or move it, risking it falling apart or getting stuck to the grill. Revolutionary!

 

Fantastic Party Menu for Cinco de Mayo April 22, 2012

Filed under: how to make it — chezdesblog @ 3:58 pm
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I created this menu for an engagement party where the hosts wanted to feature my tamales. As a party menu, it worked really well. Many of the elements can be made ahead of time and reheated or refrigerated until go-time. I am really pleased with how it all turned out – and so were they. I thought I’d share the menu with you as I think it would be great for a Cinco de Mayo party. Many of the recipes came from my recipe index. Enjoy!

Appetizers:

~ Mango Gazpacho Shooters

~ Seared Coriander-Crusted Tuna and Crunchy Slaw on Crisps

~ Grilled Cheddar Cornmeal Cakes with Avocado Mousse and Pico de Gallo

Main Buffet:

~ Green Chili Chicken Tamales with Chipotle Crema, Salsa Verde and Pico de Gallo

~ Wild Mushroom Quesadillas

~ Shredded Pork Tacos

~ Farro Salad with Chipotle Lime Vinaigrette

~ Jicama, Radish and Pepita Salad with Citrus Herb Vinaigrette

Dessert Buffet:

~ Coconut Layer Cake

~ Tequila Lime Tartlets

 

Hungry yet?

 

How I Got My Yummy Back April 15, 2012

Filed under: how to make it,where to get it — chezdesblog @ 9:05 pm
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Actually, I never lost my yummy. But it never hurts to surround yourself with inspiration! After spending last week in Mexico at Rancho la Puerta, I am as happy as ever with my healthy cooking regime. What I consider a way of life is experimental for many, scary for some, and old hat for others. Enjoying healthy meals at a communal table does wonders for awakening the yummy in anyone. It’s why I do what I do.

The entire menu was loaded with vegetables and herbs from their organic farm (that’s me standing in it!). Breakfast included eggs, yogurt, delicious breads, fresh fruit, granola and my personal favorite, Birchersmusli.

Lunch always included a large mixed green salad with a selection of fresh roasted vegetables, nuts, seeds, and house made vinaigrette. There was fresh fruit, delicious soup and some other choice such as vegetarian pizza, black bean tostadas, or wild mushroom quesadillas. Dinner always started with both soup and salad courses.

What sounds like too much to eat, really was not. Served at a leisurely pace in small portions, nutrient-dense food really satisfies. Flavored with fresh citrus, herbs, vinegar, and spices, the natural flavors really shine. Did I mention the fact that we hiked every morning and did all sorts of exercise during the day? This is the sort of stuff I love and the types of recipes I share here.

In addition to enjoying the glorious food, nutrition workshops and group workouts, I walked away with two new cook books focused on fish and grapes. You’ll be seeing more from them soon!

 

Get it Started: Mango Gazpacho April 8, 2012

Filed under: how to make it — chezdesblog @ 4:32 pm
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I am catering a party soon and can’t wait to share this  Mango Gazpacho. We will be passing it as a starter, in dessert-size shooters. It also makes an elegant starter for a meal, served by the cup. I ate it for breakfast!

Traditionally, gazpacho is a cold, tomato-based raw vegetable soup. This version, packed with fruit, vegetables and herbs, is not only gorgeous, it’s good for you. Fresh citrus juice sweetens and heightens the flavors. Serrano chili and chili sauce add a kick. I first became familiar with this recipe working in the kitchen at Golden Door. In the original recipe, they add spiny lobster to the soup, but I prefer this vegetarian version.  It’s light, colorful, simple and different – a perfect addition to your next gathering!

 

 
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