Currently Browsing: Karen Sheer
Cajun Seasonings with Blackened Halibut, Dirty Rice and Caper Remoulade Sauce
A Zippy & Zesty Cajun Blend for seasoning and blackening. Make a batch which is salt-free and sprinkle salt when needed. This is a wonderful, well balanced meal with flavors from the South. Four recipes:How to make Karen’s Best Cajun Seasoning BlendHow to Blacken Fish (Local Halibut)Dirty Rice Cajun Style – a lightened up versionQuick […]
Blackened Halibut with Cajun Seasonings and Caper Remoulade
Homemade Cajun Seasonings encrust Fresh Halibut finished with a Quick Caper Remoulade Sauce. Try with my Dirty Rice recipe too.
Dirty Rice Cajun Style
A healthier version of Southern Dirty Rice ~ lightened-up! Brown rice teams with Caramelized Onions, Garlic, Pattypan Squash, Bacon (I’ve used turkey) and Karen’s Best Cajun Seasonings.
Best of Summer 2019 Recipes: azestforlife.com
Enjoy the flavors of Summer with fresh seasonal ingredients and some inventive, well-tested and healthful recipes! Soups, Sides, Mains & Something Sweet. Summer Soups! Blend the season’s best garden-fresh veggies into bowlfuls of summery goodness. Best Side Dishes ~ Visit a local Farmers’ Market, be inspired! Satisfying Mains: A Sweet Finish ~ Desserts: Enjoy the […]
Vegan Black Cherry Ice Cream + Cashew Brittle
This vegan Black Cherry Ice Cream has a silky texture, is all-natural and surprisingly easy to prepare. (You’ll need an ice cream maker for this recipe, but it’s worth it.)
Pesto Compound Butter over Grilled Swordfish with Slow-Roasted Heirloom Tomatoes & Peppers
Have too much Summer pesto on hand? Make delicious compound butter in minutes! Slice and add to just-off-the-grilled local swordfish ~ melts into a dreamy sauce. Slow Roasted Vegetables make everything it touches taste better.I add minced shallots, garlic, extra virgin olive oil, salt & pepper and a pinch of cayenne pepper to roasted heirloom […]
Pesto Compound Butter over Grilled Swordfish with Slow-Roasted Heirloom Tomatoes & Peppers
Have too much Summer pesto on hand? Make delicious compound butter in minutes! Slice and add to just-off-the-grilled local swordfish ~ melts into a dreamy sauce.
Quick Pickled Vegetables
Crunch on these! Eat them right out of the jar, or chop them up – they lend bright flavors to all kinds of dishes. These Pickled Vegetables have a little spice going on too — mustard seeds, chile peppers, multi-colored peppercorns, sliced garlic along with vinegars. It’s super easy and fun to pickle vegetables ~ especially […]
How to Quick Pickle Vegetables
Crunch on these! Eat them right out of the jar, or chop them up – they lend bright flavors to all kinds of dishes. Fun, easy and super-quick to prepare! These Pickled Vegetables have a little spice going on too — mustard seeds, chile peppers, multi-colored peppercorns, sliced garlic along with vinegars. I’ve chosen Fiesta Striped […]
Grilled Peach Salad with Sweet & Sour Vinaigrette
A Must Try Summer Salad! So simple, fresh & delicious! Summer peaches are sweet and juicy and their flavor intensifies on the grill. I love shopping at various Farmers’ Markets in the Summer. You will find just-pick fruit and veggies and buy directly from the farmer. The selection is much different than your local supermarket […]
Grilled Peach Salad with Sweet & Sour Vinaigrette
A Must Try Summer Salad ~ So simple, fresh & delicious! Summer peaches are sweet and juicy and their flavor intensifies on the grill. Simple Ingredients ~ Yellow and White Grilled Peaches, Toasted Hazelnuts & Almonds, Red Oak Lettuce, Little Gem Lettuce, Colorful Cherry Tomatoes and an Awesome Sweet and Sour Vinaigrette with Honey, Mustard […]
Watermelon Gazpacho ~ Your Summer Cool-Down in a Bowl
An easy Summer soup topped with grated feta cheese and fresh mint ~ it’s light, vibrant and has a spicy kick Gazpacho is a cold soup made of raw, blended vegetables – here I’m adding a good dose of watermelon, adding naturally sweet fruit to the mix. Packed with antioxidants, this chilled soup is perfect for everyday […]
Watermelon Gazpacho with Shaved Feta
An easy Summer soup topped with grated feta cheese and fresh mint ~ it’s light, vibrant and has a spicy kick
Beet Tzatziki Sauce with Spiced Chicken Skewer
Healthy and Oh-So Colorful! A Zesty But Light Sauce enriches many recipes and perfect with my Grilled Chicken Skewers. This is an intense and creamy tzatziki ~ grated beets transform it into this bright rose pink color. Make this beautiful colored Beet Tzatziki and use it as a sauce, dip or spread. It’s simple to […]
Beet Tzatziki Sauce with Spiced Chicken Skewers
Healthy and Oh-So Colorful! A Zesty But Light Sauce enriches many recipes and perfect with my Grilled Chicken Skewers. This is a versatile sauce that is the perfect accompaniment to many Mediterranean dishes. You can also slather it on your sandwiches; or simply use it as a dip with warm pita and your favorite vegetables.
Southern Pimento Cheese Recipe ~ THE Spread for Everything!
This spread has so many culinary uses. Great served with good crackers and crudités ~ use also as a sandwich spread, a burger topper or a stuffing for vegetables. The possibilities are really endless. Pimento cheese has been a Southern staple for well over 50 years. It’s served cold, well – room temperature. Pimento Cheese is […]
Cold Tomato Bread Soup with Basil
THE Summer Soup to devour! Healthy and delicious ~ a lightened up version with personality, creaminess and flavor. My take on Spanish Salmorejo. Vegan. Ah… Summer Tomatoes ~ anyone who knows me understands my special affinity for this vegetable (well, really a fruit.) What’s better to eat and cook with than a perfectly ripe tomato? […]
Cold Tomato Bread Soup with Basil (Karen’s take on “Salmorejo”)
THE Summer Soup to devour! Healthy and delicious ~ a lightened up version with personality, creaminess and flavor. Vegan. My Cold Tomato Bead Soup with Basil is a take on the Andalucia region’s famous soup: Salmorejo from Spain. The ingredients are few – ripe, dark red vine ripened tomatoes are a must.
Awesome Summer Grilling Recipes
Inspiring & Healthy Barbecue Recipes for Every Taste! Grilling is a simple way in the summer to get dinner on the table in lightning speed. Pay special attention to marinades, sauces and salsas – and use the freshest ingredients you can find. Summer is finally here and that means the grilling ideas are absolutely endless […]
Seven Terrific Strawberry Recipes! And New: Summer Strawberry Salad with Walnuts, Feta and Maple-Walnut Vinaigrette
Seasonal Lettuces and Vegetables team with the juiciest Strawberries with the perfect Zesty Vinaigrette Finally the Summer season begins tomorrow!I’ve been inspired to create this new salad – and have added six other Strawberry Recipes for you to try. This is a wonderful plant based salad with just-in-season June vegetables and strawberries. I’ve added walnuts […]
Summer Strawberry Salad with Walnuts, Feta and Maple-Walnut Vinaigrette
Seasonal Lettuces and Vegetables team with the Juiciest Strawberries with the perfect Zesty Vinaigrette
Mediterranean EVOO Herb & Corn Sauce
A light and hearty Mediterranean “Sauce” for Chicken, Fish and beyond. An Extra Virgin Olive Oil Based Pan Sauce combines Garlic, Shallots, Five Herbs and Fresh Corn. A super-quick and healthy sauce you whip up in a skillet in minutes.What does this sauce work with? … well everything!Perfect topping grilled proteins, yet mingles well with […]
Mediterranean EVOO Herb & Corn Sauce for Chicken and Fish
A light and hearty Mediterranean “Sauce” for Chicken, Fish and beyond. An Extra Virgin Olive Oil Based Pan Sauce combines Garlic, Shallots, Five Herbs and Fresh Corn. A super-quick and healthy sauce you whip up in a skillet in minutes. What does this sauce work with? … well everything!
Fresh Peach Frozen Yogurt
A refreshing treat on a warm Summer Day – Lightened up with less sugar.Choose juicy, ripe delicious peaches for the recipe. In just a few steps – in just a few minutes the base for the frozen yogurt is ready to chill.Leave to cool in the refrigerator until cold, then churn. Choose juicy, ripe delicious […]
Fresh Peach Frozen Yogurt
A refreshing treat on a warm Summer Day – Lightened up with less sugar.
Skillet Jalapeño Cornbread
Crispy on the exterior, tender inside – this skillet cornbread is big on flavor! Additions include Jalapeños, Poblano Chiles, Chives and Fresh Corn. Gluten Free. The perfect side dish to complement everything you’re cooking this summer.Crispy yet moist, tender and crumbly – you will make this recipe over and over! When you pour the batter […]
Skillet Jalapeño Cornbread
Mildly spicy and full of flavor! Additions include Jalapeños, Poblano Chiles, Chives and Fresh Corn. Gluten Free.
Charred Sugar Snap Peas on the Grill with Hazelnut-Sesame Sauce
Tender crisp with a smokey essence ~ these peas are finished with a zesty and spicy nutty sauce… time to heat up the grill! Finally fabulous weather in Connecticut! The rain has subsided and sunny skies and greener grass are abound.Time to uncover the grill and get cooking outdoors! Cooking vegetables are a breeze in […]
Charred Sugar Snap Peas on the Grill with Hazelnut-Sesame Sauce
Tender crisp with a smoky essence ~ these peas are finished with a zesty and spicy nutty sauce… time to heat up the grill! An AMAZINGLY Delicious Side Dish!! Add proteins and noodles you like for a complete meal.
Shiitake Stuffed Mushrooms with Tomatillo Salsa Topping
Delectable with Mexican Spices – these caps are stuffed with flavor! Lots of colorful vegetables and ground turkey. I’m all for stuffing mushrooms with a healthy portion of vegetables – yes we should all be eating more plant-based foods!Here I sauté lots of veggies and ground turkey – add some smokey ground chiles, cumin and […]
Stuffed Shiitake Mushrooms with Tomatillo Salsa Topping
Delectable with Mexican Spices – these caps are stuffed with flavor! Lots of colorful vegetables and ground turkey.
Mother’s Day Inspiration: SALADS!
Treat Mom to a Tasty & Delicious Healthy Meal The tartness of the Rhubarb balances nicely with the tang of the goat cheese, and earthiness of the fresh herbs in the Bruschetta. The Vinaigrette adds a toasted, mellow shallot essence and a hint ground cloves to the lettuce leaves. Make the easy Rhubarb Vinegar, which […]
Vegan Strawberry Rhubarb “Ice Cream”
I’m a rhubarb fanatic! Perfectly blended into a fabulous creamy dessert. It’s sweet-tart flavor and gorgeous pinky hue set off the sweeter strawberries. I have a special place in my heart for Rhubarb… ready to pick now through summer. My grandparents had plentiful rhubarb plants sprawling in their garden, and rhubarb pie was typically served […]
Vegan Strawberry Rhubarb “Ice Cream”
I’m a rhubarb fanatic! Perfectly blended into a fabulous creamy dessert. It’s sweet-tart flavor and gorgeous pinky hue sets off the sweeter strawberries.
Thai Coconut Ginger Chicken in an Instant Pot
Stewed Chicken is so tender and delicious in an Instant Pot! This is a favorite recipe of mine I thought I would share. What’s for dinner?? Try this fabulous Thai flavored recipe and eat it for days. The chicken stays succulent in this rich sauce… but not heavy or too caloric. I always add plenty […]
Thai Coconut Ginger Chicken in an Instant Pot
Stewed Chicken is so tender and delicious in an Instant Pot! This is a favorite recipe of mine I thought I would share. What’s for dinner?? Make this fabulous Thai flavored recipe and eat it for days (reheats wonderfully!) The chicken stays succulent in this rich sauce… but not heavy or too caloric. I always […]
Karen’s Best Matzo Balls with Dill
My foolproof recipe for tender and tasty Matzo Balls for Passover or anytime! I find matzo balls fun to make. A few ingredients are stirred together, the mixture is refrigerated until cold. Then the fun begins!With oiled hands (I do use some chicken schmaltz… fat) gently roll balls and drop in a large pot of […]
Karen’s Best Matzo Balls with Dill
My foolproof recipe for tender and tasty Matzo Balls for Passover or anytime!
Spring Asparagus Soup – Vegan – with Cashew Crema Swirl and 6 Asparagus Recipes to Make
You’ll love this seasonal soup ~ fresh, local asparagus is now hitting the markets. See too my favorite Asparagus Recipes for Inspiration and Healthy Meals! This Vegan and Dairy-Free Soup is made with healthy ingredients – the secret is some soaked raw cashews – it blends into a luscious texture. The Cashew Crema is made […]
Spring Asparagus Soup – Vegan – with Cashew Crema Swirl
A bright green velvety-creamy (yet no cream) delicious Spring Asparagus Soup. Light yet hearty with fresh flavors.
Grilled Pineapple Salsa a la Plancha
This vibrant salsa with a bright and fresh taste adds pizzaz to many meals. (Yes you can just devour with a spoon! )Easy to prepare – pineapple cooks on a seasoned cast iron skillet until beautifully caramelized and golden. Golden Pineapple Is wonderful grilled in a hot, seasoned cast iron skillet. Only takes one minute […]
Grilled Pineapple Salsa a la Plancha
This vibrant salsa with a bright and fresh taste adds pizzaz to many meals. (Yes you can just devour with a spoon! ) Easy to prepare – pineapple cooks on a seasoned cast iron skillet until beautifully caramelized and golden.
New for Spring: Strawberry and Beet Salad with Strawberry-Honey Balsamic Vinaigrette
Spring Produce is soon coming to markets ~ this salad is crave-worthy and perfect for entertaining! Roasted beets are luscious and naturally sweet – but very earthy and aromatic. Correctly roasting brings a wonderful flavor and texture to beets. I have prepared them every way: shaved raw, grated, boiled, steamed and roasted. My oven roasting method I […]
Strawberry-Honey Balsamic Vinaigrette
I’m loving this vinaigrette! Puréed Strawberries are blended in – lending a beautiful color and natural sweetness.
Strawberry and Beet Salad with Strawberry-Honey Balsamic Vinaigrette
This vibrant salad is crave-worthy and perfect for entertaining! Correctly roasting brings a wonderful flavor and texture to beets. I have prepared them every way: shaved raw, grated, boiled, steamed and roasted. My oven roasting method I think is my favorite ~ beets get a golden color and depth of flavor, and cook quicker than […]
2019 Food Trends ~ with Recipes!
These ideas are trending! See what’s having a moment. Good, homemade food using the best ingredients prepared with love is ALWAYS TRENDING! Every year, new food trends seem to materialize out of nowhere and become popular on social media (Instagram & Pinterest) and more importantly, in the stores and on menus in restaurants.Some I care […]
Karen’s Blueberry Oat Linzer Bars – Gluten Free
Just a great combination of complimentary ingredients – ground nuts, cinnamon, sweet jam… confectioner’s sugar and oats for texture.
The Ultimate Banana, Oat & Walnut Waffles
A healthy version ~ crispy on the outside, tender inside and filled with good-for-you ingredients Seriously – a genius recipe! Place ingredients in a blender, whirl until smooth – heat up the waffle iron… and the ultimate, healthy waffles are minutes away! My waffle maker is seriously over 20 years old! Making waffles at home […]
The Ultimate Banana, Oat & Walnut Waffles – Naturally Gluten Free
Seriously – a genius recipe! Place ingredients in a blender, whirl until smooth – heat up the waffle iron… and the ultimate, healthy waffles are minutes away! Gluten Free – the recipe contains no flour, use alternate milks for a Vegan version.
Weeknight Filet of Sole with Mustard Sauce
A quick & tasty meal finished in minutes ~ stir together a Mustard, Herb, Garlic & Mayo Sauce, coat the fish and simply broil… genius!! A little taste of France ~ and updated: Filets de flet à la moutarde for today’s taste. Keep the fillets tender with the herbal, creamy coating and broil 4 inches […]
Weeknight Filet of Sole with Mustard Sauce
A quick & tasty meal finished in minutes ~ stir together a Mustard, Herb, Garlic & Mayo Sauce, coat the fish and simply broil… genius!! A little taste of France ~ and updated: Filets de flet à la moutarde for today’s taste.Use the freshest Filet of Sole! I got mine from a shop on the […]
20 Favorite A Zest For Life Soup Recipes
A collection of my favorite soups ~ comforting, healthy and full of flavor Be bowled over by my collection of well-tested nourishing soups! As you see… I love soup! In my collection you will find many versions to suit your taste, or try flavors that are new to you. Whether you’re sitting down to eat dinner, […]
An Easy Veggie and Turkey Lasagne Recipe to Master
This Gluten Free recipe has layers of vegetables, marinara, herbed ricotta, light-on-the cheeses and no-boil-ready-to-use gluten free lasagne sheets. Lasagne is the ultimate comfort food – and this recipe is lightened up with layers and layers of vegetables. I’m loving a little seasoned ground turkey between the layers! Make an all Vegetable Version too ~ see […]
Free Form Veggie and Turkey Lasagne (Gluten Free)
This Gluten Free recipe has layers of vegetables, marinara, herbed ricotta, light-on-the cheeses and no-boil-ready-to-use gluten free lasagne sheets. My inspiration came from a restaurant with a healthy menu ~ True Food Kitchen, after tasting their Lasagne Bolognese.
Peanut Butter Energy Bites – with Chocolate Drizzle
The ultimate healthy pop-in-your-mouth treat filled with energizing ingredients.The perfect Valentine’s Day recipe for giving and enjoying! Packed with protein and fiber ~ and so delicious!A better alternative to candy. Who doesn’t love this chocolate ~ peanut butter flavor combination??Simple to make ~ these bites are loaded with nutrients to keep you going during the day, […]
Peanut Butter Energy Bites – with Chocolate Drizzle
The ultimate healthy pop-in-your-mouth treat filled with energizing ingredients. The perfect Valentine’s Day recipe for giving and enjoying! Simple to make ~ these bites are loaded with nutrients to keep you going during the day, or the perfect not-too-sweet, pop-in-your-mouth treat I love for dessert.
Karen’s Homemade Weekday Granola
Not too sweet, low in fat – perfect for everyday eating and snacking!
Grilled Chicken Buffalo Nachos (Vegetarian version too) – The Perfect Game Day Dish
Loaded Nachos don’t need to be fattening, processed mess! Serve these on Super Bowl Sunday… rave reviews to come! One of my favorite recipes to happily feed a crowd. Updated with healthy ingredients for deliciousness in every bite. “Buffalo” flavors linger as you toss the freshly-grilled chicken cubes in your favorite hot sauce (the heat […]
Grilled Chicken Buffalo Nachos (Vegetarian version too)
Loaded Nachos don’t need to be a fattening, processed mess! Serve these on Super Bowl Sunday… rave reviews to come! This recipe make enough for a hungry crowd – 12 – 16 appetizer portions. Easily Gluten Free (see my cheese sauce.)
Quick and Healthy Chicken Soup with Ginger and Vegetables
A bevy of vegetables enrich this soup; ginger adds a boost of flavor with powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. This quick and healthy soup has definite Asian-notes with Rice Noodles (gluten free), Napa Cabbage, Snow Peas and a good dose of Ginger. Ginger is known to aid digestion, reduce inflammation, aids with cardiovascular health, relieves […]