Currently Browsing: Comfort Food
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. East 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!
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. Pure soul-comfort food. Gluten Free with rice noodles. This quick and healthy soup has definite Asian-notes with Rice Noodles (gluten free), Napa Cabbage, Snow Peas and a good dose of Ginger.
Greek Lemon Turkey Soup (an after Thanksgiving special recipe)
A Hearty, Healthy & Zesty Soup using 2 cups of diced freshly roasted turkey from your Thanksgiving feast. Make again using leftover chicken! Instead of classic orzo rice, I have use a medium grain white rice… Calrose rice. It has great natural thickening properties, which is what I love. This soup has tons of vegetables […]
Creamy Layered Purple & Ivory Mashed Potatoes (Perfect for Thanksgiving)
How amazing are these potatoes? They can be made days ahead and reheated. What I love about this recipe – besides it’s gorgeous presentation is they are not heavy, but light and creamy. But no cream in the recipe. Just the right amount of milk & butter… but not too much. Garlic adds depth and […]
Karen’s Mac n Cheese with Butternut Squash and Apples
What’s better than homemade macaroni and cheese? Here’s a recipe that is creamy, rich and has a crunchy topping that is irresistible! (Awesome Gluten-Free option too.) Adding cubes of Butternut Squash and Apples makes for an interesting, updated Fall Macaroni and Cheese. Adds interest and depth of flavor. Italian Chiocciole shaped pasta or Italian Gluten-Free Penne […]
Gluten-Free Cacio e Pepe (pasta with pepper and grated cheese)
Cacio e Pepe is a quick and tasty Roman Pasta Dish with a creamy, stirred peppery sauce ~ which is getting a little makeover. I’ve added roasted zucchini and chopped garlic to the traditional recipe ~ delicious! This gluten-free spaghetti is the best I’ve tried… use traditional pasta too. I’ve changed up the classic recipe (yes, […]
Gluten-Free Ricotta & Spinach Gnocchi
Gluten-Free Homemade Gnocchi ~ Worth the effort, fun to make and DELICIOUS! Gluten-Free Flour in the dough is easy to handle – yes… you can do this! Recipes for Brown Butter Sauce and Garlic Scape & Basil Pesto
Layered Cheese Nachos with Fresh Cherry Salsa
These nachos is very satisfying and craveable. Fresh Cherry Salsa adds tart-sweet and spicy notes – addicting!!
Corn and Zucchini Tortitas
A twist on the Spanish “Tortita” ~ these vegetable griddle cakes are delicious.. you can’t eat just one! With good-for you ingredients, chock full of zucchini, corn, scallions, jalapeño, feta, grated parmesan and a generous mound of fresh dill. Eat alone, with your favorite salsa, or, as my mother would do- sour cream.
Sunflower Satay Sauce ~ for Noodles and Grilled Chicken Skewers (Peanut-Free)
Asian-Style Satay Sauce made with Sunflower Seed Butter for a nutty-sweet flavor, yet NUT FREE. Easy blended sauce for Noodles and Grilled Chicken Skewers. Top with Sunflower Seeds and Sunflower Sprouts!
Karen’s Gluten-Free Matzo Balls – Large and Mini
Make these for the Passover holiday (or year-round!) all will enjoy, they are delicious, fluffy and tender. The only ones I make!
Chicken in the Pot Soup with Many Vegetables, Rice Noodles and Fresh Ginger
Comfort Soup in a Bowl. Gluten-Free.
Blue Corn Madeleines with Cheddar, Fresh Corn and Scallions
A little crunchy on the exterior, due to the fresh corn, cheddar and scallions first put in the tin. Organic blue corn meal makes it special.
Karen’s Buttermilk Waffles
Use as a base for appetizers – Karen’s Southern Pecan Chicken & Waffles with Collard Sauté and Bourbon- Maple Drizzle. Each waffle will make 12 appetizer portions.
Karen’s Cashew Cluster Crunch
A simple nut crunch snack that is SIMPLE (really!) to prepare and totally irresistible. Puffed Brown Rice adds lightness and crunch – a pinch of tumeric and chili flakes adds interest and a touch of heat.
Pumpkin Scones with Pecans, Cranberries and Coconut
Bakery quality scones! Barely sweet and irresistible – made from your pantry ingredients… with a secret ingredient: coconut milk.
Baked Potato Soup with Potato Skin Croutons
THE soup to fuel you through winter! Bake potatoes, use the flesh for the soup, skins for “croutons.” Healthy and lightened up with broth, milk and loaded with vegetables.
Gluten-Free Turkey Tetrazzini
Your Go-To Recipe After Thanksgiving! Leftover Turkey and Vegetables are tossed together and baked into a hearty main course casserole. Lightened-up and delicious!
Karen’s Cornbread
A simple and yummy cornbread, which is gluten-free adaptable.
Matzo Granola with Fruits and Nuts
Prepare yourself for the crispiest, crunchiest, most delectable granola you’ve ever had. Kosher for Passover and gluten-free, too!
Asparagus, Apple, Black Bean and Goat Cheese Taquitos
Spring Asparagus teams with Black Beans, Goat Cheese and Sautéed Apples inside these Corn Tortilla Taquitos. Serve them with a Tomatillo Salsa Verde for ultimate meal or appetizer!
Vegan Ramen Bowl with Unami Broth, Vegetables and Tofu
Here’s how to turn the trendiest carb into a healthy, steaming bowl of deliciousness at home. Make a simple Dashi Broth and add flavor-packed elements.
BLT & C Crostini ~ Bacon, Lettuce, Tomato and Cheese
It’s soon Game-Day. The ultimate Easy Super Bowl Appetizer ~ Girls & Guys alike will devour!
Healthy Chicken Tortilla Soup
A classic twist on Mexico City’s Soul Food Soup. Fresh, intense flavors combine with vegetables and pulled chicken – your go-to-healthy-soup for the winter season
Karen’s Festive Naan Pizza ~ Red, White & Green Appetizer
Roll Naan Dough and top with festive colored toppings for the ultimate Holiday Appetizer. Below, a recipe for 6 oval Naan Pizza Doughs. The topping directions are for 2 oval pizzas, each 4″ wide x 8″ long. Use all if you desire, and adjust for the toppings. This is actually a simple recipe. I am being […]
Roasted Pepper, Tomato and Goat Cheese Fonduta
I think of this recipe as “healthy-comfort food.” Tomatoes, peppers, red wine.. goat cheese – “Modern Mediterranean” with local spring herbs.
Russian Style Quick Rye Soda Bread
A quick soda bread with Russian style ingredients, namely: Dark Rye Flour, a sour element (I have used Kefir, a fermented milk product) and Caraway Seeds. To darken and enrich the bread, use cocoa powder and a touch of expresso powder.