get your yummy back

musings from a health supportive culinary artist

Roasted Rock Fish + Chicken Posole July 8, 2012

Filed under: how to make it — chezdesblog @ 10:46 am
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Alaskan Rock Fish

As expected, it was a great week with that break smack-dab in the middle!

I created two new dishes that I want to share. The first was Roasted Rock Fish in a chunky tomato sauce. Our friends caught the fish while in Alaska and were kind enough to share their bounty. When I opened the package, it smelled like the ocean. So fresh! So delicious! This dish is really great for entertaining because the tomato sauce can be made ahead of time and it only takes about 15 minutes for the fish to roast. If you can’t find rock fish, black cod or halibut would be good alternatives.

I also made Chicken Posole, a hearty broth-based chicken and hominy soup garnished with radish, avocado and cabbage. I roasted a chicken for the meat and used the carcass to make  chicken broth. Don’t let that deter you from trying it. There are short cuts, of course, like buying broth and using a pre-roasted chicken. Delicious either way.

 

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!

 

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!

 

Polenta Napoleon with Pesto August 28, 2011

Filed under: how to make it — chezdesblog @ 3:37 pm
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Looking for something out of the ordinary to do with all that fresh basil? Make pesto and use it in this super-delicious Polenta Napoleon with Pesto. This is some serious gluten-free comfort food.

Technically, a napoleon is a french pastry layered with cream (and sometimes berries) and served for dessert. In this savory version, polenta is layered with tomato sauce, pesto, sautéed zucchini, and cheese. Once cool, it sets right up into gorgeous layers. Delicious, healthy, and satisfying – this one’s a keeper!

Other favorite recipes highlighting polenta (both sweet and savory) include polenta pie, polenta and black bean casserole, orange polentina, and lemon-poppy seed polenta with blueberries. Yummy stuff!

 

 
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