Currently Browsing: Comfort Food
Karen’s Fresh Fig Jam with Rosemary
A Delicious Jam from Ripe Seasonal Figs – with a hint of Balsamic Vinegar and Fresh Rosemary. So many uses! Spoon on toast – Create My Fresh Fig & Herb Balsamic Dressing – Use a Glaze for the Grill. I am a FIG Lover! Known for their aromatic and sweet flavor, I first fell in […]
Gluten Free Rhubarb Scones with a Rhubarb Glaze
Golden & Tender Triangles of Scone Heaven! Dotted with Almonds and Rhubarb and a Dynamite Easy Rhubarb Glaze. Double the Rhubarb Flavor! Spring Rhubarb is now available at your local market! Be sure to look for it at Farmers’ Markets and buy directly from the grower. Choose unblemished firm rhubarb stalks with a dark ruby […]
Passover Quinoa Pilaf with Asparagus, Sugar Snap Peas & Mint
A Big Batch Side-Dish That Pairs Well With All Your Passover Main Courses. Fluffy Quinoa with Onions, Leeks and Spring Veggies, adorned with Fresh Mint – all will love! Add lots of mint leaves at the end… not just a garnish but part of the dish. Quinoa for Passover… Why Not? I always have had […]
Homemade Chicken & Veggie Burgers with Maple Glazed Shallots and Roasted Tomato Ketchup
The Best Homemade Healthy Burgers brimming with Veggies and topped with addictive Maple Glazed Shallots… and a recipe for Homemade Ketchup with Canned Plum Tomatoes! For BEST Chicken Burgers – grind fresh chicken and then form into patties with veggies and seasonings. Use a food processor and pulse chicken tenderloins and boneless, skinless chicken thigh […]
Karen’s Roasted Tomato Ketchup
How to Make Homemade Ketchup Year-Round: Use Italian Canned Plum Tomatoes! I just couldn’t wait for ripe summer tomatoes ~ so I created this recipe using the best quality canned tomatoes. I love making my own ketchup, not too sweet with savory intense flavors. You can whirl it smooth or leave slightly chunky. The First […]
Karen’s Irish Soda Bread Waffles
All the flavor and crunch of Irish Soda Bread – but delicious waffles! Buttermilk based waffles with a boost of caraway seeds and raisins – great for breakfast, brunch, or the ultimate snack… I can’t stop eating them! Works perfectly with regular flour or gluten free! The batter is enriched with Raisins and Caraway seeds […]
Karen’s Thai-Style Hot & Sour Soup
A Thai twist on the beloved Chinese soup – best made at home with the freshest ingredients! Tips on how to adjust the heat so it’s just right! Totally worth your time… yummy! Gluten Free. Hot and Sour Soup is a tradionally is a Chinese soup that’s savory, spicy and tangy – its flavor is incredibly […]
Karen’s Roasted Winter Kumato Tomato Salsa
The Best Homemade Salsa features Kumato Tomatoes available year-round and prized for their sweet, juicy flavor and firm texture. With a dark-red brown hue and a blush of green – they will roast to a burgundy color… the perfect complement with the chipotle peppers. Kumato tomatoes luckily are available year round! My go-to tomato in Winter. What’s in the […]
Applesauce Streusel Loaf Cake – It’s Gluten Free
Delicious with Homemade Applesauce! Using my panty ingredients – this satisfying loaf cake features an oat-streusel topping and is dotted with natural dried cranberries. I’m craving comfort food right now – this loaf cakes smells marvelous as it bakes with hints of warm spices wafting through the kitchen. Comforting & Addictive! Baked with healthful ingredients […]
Tuscan Marinated Mushrooms
Deeply fragrant mushrooms team with flavorful Tuscan spices – coated with a wine-lemon-olive oil marinade. Tangy, delicious, and easy to make. Small-plate sharing isn’t just a Spanish thing. The Italian version of tapas, known as cicchetti in Venice, stuzzichini in Southern Italy and antipasti to many Italian Americans, are great for passing around over a […]
Asian Glass Noodle Stir-Fry With Too Many Vegetables
You’ll slurp up these Gluten Free Sweet Potato Noodles with Vegetables Galore! Crispy, Crunchy & Chewy with a Soy-Chili-Citrus Sauce – Delish! A flavorful soy-chili-citrus sauce is cooked with a bevy of vegetables and silky-chewy Glass Noodles (made with sweet potato starch.) A flavor explosion – gluten free, vegan and dairy free. Topping are an […]
Southwest Style Green Shakshuka with Hatch Chili Oil
What to eat on New Years Day! Gather the ingredients you will need and pump up the green antioxidants in this one-pan dish. Healthy and satisfying with mild heat. My favorite Brunch recipe! Also see: Holiday Hors D’Oeuvres , Pick-Up Appetizers & Nibbles for amazing New Year’s Eve ideas! With the surge for global cuisine […]
Holiday Hors D’Oeuvres , Pick-Up Appetizers & Nibbles
Stress free entertaining: Christmas, New Years Eve and New Year’s Day. Get cooking with these Well-Tested Recipes. Creative, Healthy and Inspiring. The holiday season continues as we ring in the new 2022 year! 16 Must-Make Crave-Worthy Appetizers for People Who Love Party Food! Let’s start with a CHEESY selection – recipes that incorporate cheese in […]
Spinach & Chicken Meatball Appetizer with Fontina Fondue
A killer appetizer!! These pop-in-your-mouth meatball~crostini~marinara bites are topped with a flowing, easy fontina cheese fondue. Spinach & Chicken Meatballs have a light texture and roast beautifully. Recipe makes 50 miniature Spinach & Chicken Meatball Appetizers with Fontina Fondue. Can also freeze some mini meatballs for another use. This recipe can be made gluten free using gluten […]
Totally Homemade Spinach & Chicken Meatballs
Loads of Spinach mixed in to Freshly Ground Chicken – that you grind! This makes the most delicious and nutritious meatballs with an amazing texture. Recipe makes 50 medium sized meatballs or – 35 plus 30 miniature for hors d’oeuvres. I make a big batch here – eat some for the week, tuck the rest away […]
How to Make the BEST Potato Latkes! & After Thanksgiving Recipes for your Leftovers
Just when we have digested the Thanksgiving dinner (and leftovers the entire weekend) – Chanukah is here! And it’s time to enjoy some crispy latkes. There is still time to creatively use up your tasty leftovers… see below. Enjoy Potato Latkes this week ~ learn the tricks of a crispy yet light potato pancake. There are many interesting flavor combinations. […]
After Thanksgiving Recipes with your Leftovers
Here’s what I’m cooking up with the holiday’s leftovers. Soup, Salad, Throw-back Casserole, Tacos, Chef Salad, Frittata and more – create new meals for the week with minimal effort. After Thanksgiving – besides dunking roast turkey into russian dressing (homemade of course) I crave this soup! It’s zesty lemony flavor with many vegetables mingling in […]
Thanksgiving Appetizers, Mains, Sides & Desserts – I’ve Got You Covered!
Finish writing your grocery lists with some of these classic, inventive and healthy recipes for Thanksgiving! Appetizers! Some light nibbles while your guests are arriving, drinking, toasting and anticipating the holiday meal. Simple to make – roll mixture into a log – chill, slice & bake! Top with garden herbs for an elegant touch. A […]
Thanksgiving 2021 – Mastering Turkey & Gravy PLUS All the SIDES
Make the most flavorful turkey with a memorable gravy you will make every year. See my tricks and hints! Plus – let’s also get serious with a Creative & Healthy Mix of Crave Worthy SIDE DISHES. It’s all about the gravy! Learn how to make a dark, caramelized and flavorful gravy – and it’s not […]
Pistachio-Allspice “Biscuit” Shortbread – Ode to Ted Lasso
A delicious melt-in-your-mouth shortbread you will love! And wouldn’t Rebecca from the Ted Lasso television series approve? Here are traditional British Biscuits, in America they are Shortbreads – revived with nuts & spice. While watching Apple TV’s series Ted Lasso, I would wonder as Ted (Jason Sudeikis) drops off a little pink box of biscuits to Rebecca […]
Fantastic Fennel Parmesan
Perfectly sliced Roasted Fennel is getting topped with Garlicky Bread Crumbs, Tomato Sauce, Fresh Cut Tomatoes and topped with Shaved Parmesan. A Lightened-Up Veggie Parmesan! Fennel is delicious raw – thinly sliced and tossed into salads. When cooked, fennel softens, the flavor becomes sweet and mild with a luscious creamy texture. Similar to anise, fennel […]
Garlic Garlic Pizza!
Karen’s Perfect Pizza Dough is topped with a Roasted Garlic purée, Fresh Mozzarella Cheese, dollops of Ricotta Cheese & Marinara and Chopped Garlic. Fresh Oregano & Basil with a pinch of Hot Pepper Flakes add to this crave-worthy Pizza! Back from the Hudson Valley Garlic Festival – Garlicky Pizza is what I’m craving to use […]
Flavors of Fall – 20 Irresistible Squash & Apple Recipes!
Here to inspire you – what to cook that is in season right now! Comforting & nutritious recipes prepared with seasonal ingredients to warm you up from the inside and make you enjoy the fall season at its fullest. Cook & Bake with confidence with my healthy and well-tested recipes. Press on the green titles for all […]
Sesame Blistered Shishito Peppers – Mine are Multi-Colored!
An amazing, fun & delicious EASY appetizer and side dish – these charred peppers are addictive and healthy! When pan-roasted the skin of the shishito pepper becomes blackened, resulting in an amazing smoky flavor. Pick one up and nibble to the stem! These Super-Trendy Peppers are on many restaurants menus as they are a wonderful, […]
Poke Bowl with Fresh Tuna, Rice & Summer Veggies
Combine Asian umami flavors and great quality tuna with a dash of local veggies for color and taste. A light summer meal that is a snap to prepare! No two Poke Bowls are alike! I would say Marinated Ahi (Sushi Grade Tuna) and Steamed short grain rice are the start – the base of the […]
Perfect Peach Pie with Whipped Coconut Cream & Basil Syrup
A classic foolproof Summer Peach Pie with all the instructions you need for a flaky crust and perfectly spiced peach filling. Try something new! Instead of whipped cream on the side – try whipped coconut cream! I refrigerate a can of coconut milk, scoop out the thick cream and whisk until light. A little basil […]
Corn Pudding with Cheddar and Chipotle Crust
14 CORN RECIPES to Make and Savor All Summer! Plus NEW Corn Pudding with Cheddar and Chipotle Crust – a must side-dish that is healthy, light & delicious. See bottom for recipe. Butter and Sugar corn is considered the best tasting corn. It is a favorite for its sweet flavor, texture and quality. I’m obsessed […]
Chicken Breasts Under a Brick with a Vegetable Ragoût
Tender chicken with an outrageous crispy crust pairs with a vegetables melange of carrots, turnips & corn and a rosemary pan-sauce. The ultimate one-pan healthy comfort food main dish. Cooking chicken breasts under a brick creates not only a crispy skin – but a perfectly cooked and tender interior. “Brick Chicken” is seared skin-side down with a […]
Apricot – Cherry Cobbler with Cinnamon Biscuits
Fresh Fruit Gently Sweetened in Individual Ramekins are Begging You to Dig Into! Apricots and Cherries are in season right now – add a quick Cobbler- Cinnamon Biscuit topping for an incredible dessert. This casual fruit dessert Is made in individual one cup ramekins – the PERFECT Summer treat! Light with just the right amount […]
Chickpea “Baked Beans”
Tastes like the best homemade baked beans but better! More easily digested than all beans! No barbecue feast or picnic is complete without them! Vegan, Vegetarian & Gluten Free. Any homemade baked beans are superior to canned! See below all the preservatives, chemicals and “natural flavors” most major companies add. I Love Baked Beans – just […]
Grilled Caponata – A New Twist with Deep Flavor!
From the Mediterranean area – Caponata is a Sicilian eggplant relish or eggplant salad typically served room temperature. I’m seriously grilling lately – so I have turned one of my favorite dishes into a grilled spectacular Italian dish. Caponata is a Sicilian eggplant relish or eggplant salad typically served room temperature. This vegetarian feast has […]
Savory Cheese Shortbread Linzer Thins with Tomato Jam
A creative play on the beloved “Linzer Cookie” – savory, cheesy melt-in-your-mouth shortbread sandwiched with Tomato Jam! Your company will be amazed! I’m turning the Linzer Cookie upside down – what is traditionally a sweet cookie is now a savory upscale treat! To make the shortbread thins: Roll this easy dough out 1/8 inch thin. […]
How to Make Falafel at Home – With Zesty Tahini Sauce
A Middle Eastern plant-based healthful fritter does not need to be deep fried. See my method for pan-frying and then finishing in the oven for the tastiest falafel! Gluten Free. Crispy & Crunchy with tender insides and bold flavors – enjoy making them at home! Falafel is a fantastic vegan-friendly meal that is packed full of […]
Delicious Dan Dan Noodles – They’re Vegan!
Dan Dan Noodles are a traditional street food from Sichuan, China and can easily be recreated in your home kitchen! I’m lightening them up with Tofu & Mushrooms in place of pork, and adding vibrant greens. I love these noodles! A combustion of flavors — savory, nutty, spicy, and smoky. It’s Earth Day! We’re celebrating […]
Parmesan Crisps – Master Recipe with Flavoring Suggestions
These are so easy, crunchy & delicious! The crisps are made with grated Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese and your choice of seasonings (I have many suggestions!) Easy Parmesan Crisps can be made into these clever Caesar Salad Tacos. Crush these crisps on top of salads, side dishes like risotto – anywhere you crave a rich Umami flavor-boost. It’s […]
Caesar Salad Tacos – In a Parmesan Crisp Shell
Ready for a Umami-rich treat? A creative genius recipe that is so delicious and low in carbs! All your favorite Caesar Salad Ingredients – I love to add roasted red peppers too. Gluten Free – no problem! I have used gluten free bread for the garlic croutons. Eat these immediately after preparing! Taco Shells can […]
Herbed Tomato and Fennel Soup with Parmesan Crisps
In the Mediterranean Tradition – the flavors here are a combination of mellow and bold. Aromatic Basil and Fennel both have hints of anise (licorice) and team beautifully with sweet San Marzano Tomatoes. Soup making is about using the best quality ingredients and understanding the method of how to prepare it to perfection. I like the […]
Classic French Onion Soup – Karen’s Way
Oh-La-La ~ Warm up with a Classic Crock of Onion Soup with a Secret Ingredient – Shiitake Mushrooms! A delicious, hearty broth starts with good vegetable and chicken broths (no beef broth here) – added to perfectly caramelized onions and shiitake mushrooms. The mushrooms add a nice earthy flavor that complements the soup.. just love […]
Karen’s Cheesy Swiss Fondue with Garlic & Chives
While fondue might be the ultimate party food- I’m in the mood for it’s silky, stingy texture and assertive flavor, and have decided to have a fondue night at home. Indulgent, okay just a little, but it only sounds fancy – it’s incredible simple to make! I really got into the idea and decided to […]
Karen’s Master Dinner Mini Roll Recipe
I’m making these dinner rolls in a circular wreath pattern to serve and dunk into my Classic Cheesy Fondue. Simple and fun to make with a wonderful smell wafting though the kitchen as the rolls bake! See my recipe: Karen’s Cheesy Swiss Fondue with Garlic & Chives
Natural Candied Yams with Apple Cider Cinnamon Glaze
A must for Thanksgiving! A wonderful thick glaze surrounds rounds of yams with a cinnamon essence. A healthier lightened- up recipe! A beautifully sticky glaze that’s not too sweet. The trick: reduce Fresh Apple Cider!
Incredible Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries with Garlic
These are a weekly staple in my house. Serve them too for Thanksgiving – everyone loves these! Seasoned, Roasted and Tossed in Garlic, Butter and Parsley.
Yummy Pumpkin & Oatmeal Pancakes
Delicious and loaded with healthy ingredients with tips on how to cook a pumpkin and make homemade Pumpkin Puree.
Butternut Squash Gnocchi ~ It’s Gluten Free
Using flavorful Honeynut squash – these pillowy gnocchi include the roasted squash in the dough and also served in the finished dish. Serve with simple browned butter and fresh herbs – delish! So much fun to make! See recipe for how to cut into 1 inch lengths and form Delicious Butternut Squash Gnocchi includes Ricotta […]
Karen’s Pasta Puttanesca with Fresh Tomatoes
A vibrant sauce takes makes only minutes to prepare – this is one of my favorite dishes ~ Buon appetito! The sauce is cooked in a big skillet – pasta is folded in, then served Puttanesca Sauce is big on flavor! Use fresh tomatoes if you can; the rest are pantry ingredients. Chock full of fresh […]
Amazing Apple Crumb Cakes with Cardamom and Ginger
Apple season is here – and these cakes are divine! Enjoy for dessert, a snack or for the Jewish New Year – Rosh Hashanah A delicious cake with a bit of honey, these cakes are layered with sliced apples and a crumb topping The perfect fall dessert – I’m serving with Coconut Whipped Cream I’M OBSESSED […]
Cheddar and Herb “Pennies” ~ Savory Shortbread Crackers (yes, gluten free option too!)
Simple to make – roll mixture into a log – chill, slice & bake! Top with garden herbs for an elegant touch. A revised recipe from the 1950’s – these popular Cheesy Shortbread “Pennies” are the perfect little crackers with big flavor. Fabulous for snacking and company! Crispy and full of flavor. Aren’t they beautiful? […]
Thai Basil Pesto – and what to do with it!
The flavor has a pronounced licorice essence and a little spicy kick. So many uses – see my list. Find this wonderful variety at farmers’ markets. Makes a delicious and unique pesto! Thai Basil Pesto adorns Pasta Squares, Roasted Zucchini and Toasted Pignoli Nuts Karen’s Thai Basil Pesto includes Thai Basil Leaves, Garlic, Pignoli Nuts, Nutritional Yeast, […]
Mediterranean Chickpea Stew with Pantry Ingredients
An Aromatic Stew made with pantry ingredients: chickpeas, extra virgin olive oil, diced tomatoes in juice, sun-dried tomatoes and tomato paste, Add fresh ingredients you have – potatoes carrots, onions, spinach and cupboard Mediterranean spices.
Crispy Croutons with Grainy Mustard and Garlic
Just the most flavorful croutons! Tons of delicious zesty flavors.
Homemade Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups
The Perfect Irresistible Valentine’s Day treat for your loved ones! Make these delicious treats with healthful ingredients. These chocolate peanut butter cups are super-simple to make, with just a few ingredients. Use the best quality chocolate ~ I like an extra dark type, although, yes – you can use milk chocolate if you desire (has a much higher […]
Pumpkin Stuffed Shells with Lightened-Up Alfredo Sauce
Taking Comfort Food to a Whole New Level! Italian Pasta Shells Stuffed with Fresh Ricotta Cheese, Smoked Mozzarella, Roasted Pumpkin, Fresh Spinach, Shiitake Mushrooms in a Creamy Lightened-Up Alfredo Sauce. Delizioso!
Amazing Veggie Chili Without Beans
A Healthy and Hearty Chili Chock Full of Veggies with Chick Peas, Lentils, Butternut Squash and Cremini Mushrooms in a Tomato Based sauce with Homemade Chili Seasoning – dig in and be creative with your toppings!
Maple Zucchini Walnut Bread – Gluten Free
A delicious and moist Gluten Free Zucchini Quick Bread using Maple Syrup three ways ~ in the bread, glaze and glazed walnuts. Not too sweet with healthful ingredients. Easily made vegan. Use a good quality natural maple syrup (not pancake syrup!!) You know – the kind with one ingredient: maple syrup! I used a Grade […]
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: Adds a cheesy, slightly spicy flavor and creamy, dreamy texture to multitude of tasty things
Skillet Jalapeño Cornbread
Mildly spicy and full of flavor! Additions include Jalapeños, Poblano Chiles, Chives and Fresh Corn. Gluten Free.
Karen’s Best Matzo Balls with Dill
My foolproof recipe for tender and tasty Matzo Balls for Passover or anytime!
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! 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!