ALL RECIPES

Amazing Vanilla Bean Ice Milk

Amazing Vanilla Bean Ice Milk

A lightened-up vision of a favorite dessert. You won’t believe the texture and flavor of the Ice Milk… and it’s not loaded with sugar! An easy recipe with few ingredients. Natural Coconut Cream adds some nice body. Naturally flavored with Vanilla Extract and Vanilla Bean Gel. More refreshing and lighter than Ice Cream!

Vanilla Ice Milk & Peach Melba Parfaits

Vanilla Ice Milk & Peach Melba Parfaits

A lightened-up vision of a favorite dessert. You won’t believe the texture and flavor of the Ice Milk!

Summer Charred Tomato Salsa Over Brined Grilled Chicken

Summer Charred Tomato Salsa Over Brined Grilled Chicken

Learn how to Char Tomatoes over a wood fire to make the perfect light Summer Salsa. Brining Chicken Breasts insures a juicy interior. Soaking wood chips – and adding them to a V-shaped metal smoking box transforms a gas grill to something special… a smoky essence lingers in the Salsa and Chicken.

Beet and Tahini Dressing

Beet and Tahini Dressing

A creamy tart-nutty dressing with a gorgeous pink hue. Healthy and a great addition to a composed salad Try this dressing on my: Buddha Bowl With Beets, Quinoa and a Bevy of Vegetables (see recipe)

Buddha Bowl With Beets, Quinoa and a Bevy of Vegetables

Buddha Bowl With Beets, Quinoa and a Bevy of Vegetables

Buddha bowls are trending for good reason – they’re one bowl meals packed with grains, veggies, protein, a homemade dressing and finished with seeds or nuts. Use ingredients you have on hand, love ~ or follow my delicious recipe How did it get its name? A bowl which is packed so full that it has a rounded […]

Shrimp & Farmers’ Market Vegetable Sauté

Shrimp & Farmers’ Market Vegetable Sauté

A quick sauté using what’s local. Florida Pink Shrimp Team with Local Bi-Color, Striped Peppers and Purple Scallions. Delicious and Healthy! I’m all for a quick weeknight dinner with farm-fresh local ingredients… especially in Summer! Look for never frozen Florida Pink Shrimp – so sweet with a beautiful rosy hue. Dust them with pantry herbs; smoked paprika […]

Zesty Sumac - Lemon Dressing

Zesty Sumac- Lemon Dressing

A tart an aromatic dressing, perfect for Mediterranean Salads. Pomegranate Molasses adds a boost of flavor and color. Sumac has a lovely, nearly purple color, and a tart flavor that is reminiscent of vinegar or lemon

Fabulous Fattoush ~ A Middle Eastern Salad with Vegetables and Toasted Bread

Fabulous Fattoush ~ A Middle Eastern Salad with Vegetables and Toasted Bread

There is nothing better than a Fattoush Salad in Summer with seasonal, glistening vegetables! Pita bread is toasted in the oven with olive oil and Za’atar seasoning and tossed into the salad. Finish with a Zesty Lemony Sumac Dressing This is a  wonderfully, healthy salad you can tailor to your taste… toss in fresh farmers’ […]

Crispy Onion Bhajis with Grated Mango Chutney

Crispy Onion Bhajis with Grated Mango Chutney

Pan fried and similar to a fritter, these pop-in-your-mouth treats are simple to make and well worth the effort. Indian seasonings add a punch of flavor – and they are Vegan and Gluten-Free! Bhajis are crispy little fritters – mine are pan-fried, not deep fried. Little morsels packed with flavor and spice!

Grilled Sea Bass with Eggplant, Tomato & Herb Salad

Grilled Sea Bass with Eggplant, Tomato & Herb Salad

Nothing better than really fresh fish with a wonderful vegetable preparation. Sea Bass has a meaty texture and pairs well with the Grilled Eggplant and Tomato Salad in a Zesty Vinaigrette  This recipe has a Mediterranean feel, lack of dairy and loaded with local vegetables.

Fresh Cherry BBQ Sauce ~ Over Chicken & Veggie Kebobs

Fresh Cherry BBQ Sauce ~ Over Chicken & Veggie Kebobs

A fabulous Basting and Dipping BBQ Sauce to make During Cherry Season! A gorgeous color with Fresh Cherry Flavor. See recipe below for Chicken & Veggie Kebobs.

On the Grill: Zucchini Crusted Pizza

On the Grill: Zucchini Crusted Pizza

All the flavor without the guilt – A low-carb dream pizza bursting with flavor. Gluten-Free. No need to heat up the kitchen in Summer ~ grill the crust outdoors. A great recipe for the summer ~ crust cooks on the grill… no need to heat the oven to 500 degrees. Further crisp the crust under […]

Fresh Mint Chocolate Truffles - Vegan

Fresh Mint Chocolate Truffles – Vegan

These delectable, creamy truffles are truly all-natural with Fresh Mint from my garden. Coconut Milk swaps in for heavy cream for a lighter, vegan treat. Cacao nibs adds a little crunch. You’ll love the simple ingredients: Belgium Chocolate (73% Cacao, no extra sugar will be added), Coconut Milk, Fresh Mint, Cocao Nibs and Peppermint Extract. […]

Genius Strawberry Lace-Cookie Crisp in individual pie pans

Genius Strawberry Lace-Cookie Crisp

These individual crisps are bursting with strawberries and an almond lace cookie top. Totally crunchy! If I do say so myself – these crisps are genius… not loaded with sugar with a top layer that cracks – like Crème Brûlée!

Spring Minty Pea Soup with Scallion Kimchee in vintage blue & white bowl

Spring Minty Pea Soup with Scallion Kimchee

A quick blender soup with a good handful of mint – Scallion Kimchee adds a hit of mellow heat  A tasty soup that showcases the vibrant, delicate flavors of the season. The key to a vibrant green soup is cooking the peas perfectly, which means very briefly

Quick Scallion Kimchee

Quick Scallion Kimchee

The perfect condiment to add flavor and a layer of heat to many foods. Try it with my Spring Minty Pea Soup

Rhubarb & Goat Cheese Bruschetta

Rhubarb and Goat Cheese Bruschetta Over a Salad with Rhubarb & Shallot Vinaigrette

Three Rhubarb recipes come together in this marvelous, fresh salad with a Savory Bruschetta.  Rhubarb is one of those flavors that is deliciously addicting – Tart to the taste ~ an incredible ingredient to cook as the crimson color and heady perfumy scent stands out.

Rhubarb and Shallot Vinaigrette

Rhubarb and Shallot Vinaigrette

This Zesty Vinaigrette dresses up greens with an essence of Rhubarb. Make these delectable Bruschettas to serve with the salad

Karen's Hummus with Za'atar in an Instant Pot

Karen’s Hummus with Za’atar in an Instant Pot

You will love the texture of this Creamy Hummus ~ wonderful Middle Eastern flavors with Za’atar seasonings: a mix of toasted Sesame Seeds, Sumac, Thyme and Sea Salt. An Instant Pot produces perfectly plump, cooked chickpeas.

Hummus and Grilled Veggie Tacos with Corn Salsa

Hummus and Grilled Veggie Tacos with Corn Salsa

My favorite hard shell Tacos filled with Za’atar seasoned Hummus and brimming with colorful Vegetables just off the grill. Corn Salsa adds a layer of natural sweetness, heat and crunch. A wonderful meal for a weeknight or special enough for company – these Vegan and Gluten-Free Tacos are healthy, delicious and have great visual appeal! […]

Karen’s Corn Salsa

Karen’s Corn Salsa

This simple corn salsa has a puréed base which gives it stability and creaminess.

Karen's Shiitake Mushroom "Bacon" VEGAN

Karen’s Shiitake Mushroom “Bacon” VEGAN

My Shiitake “Bacon” is a game changer – my tasters said taste just like the real thing… but vegan Cooked on a stovetop skillet so no need to overheat the kitchen in warmer weather. There are a few secrets to the method, so follow carefully. Fabulous addition to deviled eggs, in sandwiches, salads and stir-fries. […]

A skillet dish: Shrimp with Charred Brocollini and Shiitake

Shrimp with Charred Brocollini and Shiitake “Bacon” – Browned Butter Balsamic Drizzle

A skillet dish with an amazing flavor combination – healthful and colorful. Shiitake “Bacon” is a game changer – my tasters said taste just like the real thing… but vegan!

how to make the best Curry Coconut Slow Roasted Nuts

Curry Coconut Slow Roasted Nuts

Raw cashews are soaked for easier digestion and are cooked in a slow oven until golden and crispy. Coat with sweet and savory seasonings: curry powder, ginger, cinnamon, cumin, smoked paprika, pink sea salt, coconut nectar, coconut palm sugar and unsweetened shredded coconut

Rosemary & Spice Mixed Nuts

Pecans, Walnuts, Almonds and Brazil Nuts are roasted in a slow oven until fragrant and lightly golden. Kissed with fresh rosemary and a hints of a sweet-salty flavor. No overwhelming flavors, all complement each other.

Grilled and Yogurt & Spice Marinated Lebanese Chicken

Grilled Lebanese Chicken with Yogurt & Spices

Yogurt Marinated Chicken, Lebanese-Style Garlic Sauce, Harissa Sauce and Pickled Turnips come together for the ultimate Middle Eastern Feast at home. Here is my version of a similar dish: Shish taouk or tawook (chicken kebab) – a Lebanese staple. It is quite a common chicken bbq dish in virtually every Middle Eastern country, and a popular street-food. […]

Pickled Parsnips takes only minutes to prepare. The gorgeous hue... the addition alf a few slices of red beets

Easy Pickled Turnips – Lebanese Style

Delightful little pink Middle Eastern Pickles – great crunch… fabulous punch of color! This simple recipe adds a pungent note to flavorful, spiced foods.

A little condiment with big, bold flavors

Karen’s Quick Harissa Sauce / Paste

The main ingredients in this zippy and zesty Harissa are chili peppers, red bell pepper, caraway seeds, cumin and extra virgin olive oil. Can alter the spiciness… the pungent and earthy flavor of  the caraway seeds make it special.. and quite versatile! A quick sauce, packed with flavor and gorgeous color. Keep some in the fridge […]

You must try this Lebanese-Style Garlic Sauce – a bold alternative to mayonnaise.

Easy Lebanese Garlic Sauce

You must try this Lebanese-Style Garlic Sauce – a bold alternative to mayonnaise. Called “toum” –  a delicious condiment and can be used as a dip, spread or whisked into many culinary creations. The addition of a little steamed potato, insures the sauce does not break, and tames the garlic’s pungency a bit. This pungent garlic flavor is […]

A tart-sweet flavor, perfectly thickened.

Strawberry Rhubarb Topping

Rhubarb is one of those flavors that is deliciously addicting…. pairs wonderfully with Strawberries. A tart-sweet flavor, perfectly thickened.

Strawberry Rhubarb Cottage Cheese Cheesecake with an Oat & Almond Press In Crust – Gluten Free

Strawberry Rhubarb Cottage Cheese Cheesecake with an Oat & Almond Press In Crust – Gluten Free

You’ll fall in love with the lighter texture of this amazing cheesecake. A simple topping with luscious Spring Rhubarb and Strawberries add just the right tart-sweet flavor and gorgeous color! The one dessert you will make over and over again this Spring. Delight Mom… the perfect Mother’s Day Dessert! Rhubarb is one of those flavors […]

Spring Asparagus Spears are cooked in Parchment Paper with Lemon Rind, Garlic, Tarragon and Butter ~ an easy method with delicious results

Spring Asparagus Cooked in Parchment Over Pasta

Spring Asparagus Spears are cooked in Parchment Paper with Lemon Rind, Garlic, Tarragon and Butter ~ an easy method with delicious results! A wonderful light dish which is simple to prepare. I love adding roasted Jerusalem Artichoke slices and Fresh Peas into the mix… see recipe. Loaded with Vegetables… actually more veggies than pasta!

Spring Grilled Asparagus Salad ~ Blood Orange Buttermilk Dressing

Spring Grilled Asparagus Salad ~ Blood Orange Buttermilk Dressing

The perfect Restaurant Quality Spring Salad! Choose fat asparagus and cook indoors in a grill pan – or outdoors in warmer weather. Mache Lettuce, Radicchio, Purple Spring Onions, Toasted Almonds, Fresh Mango Cubes, Blood Orange Slices and Grilled Fat Asparagus Spears all come together for a memorable, Restaurant-Syle Salad at Home. Enjoy the flavors of […]

The perfect Restaurant Quality Spring Salad - choose fat asparagus and cook indoors in a grill pan – or outdoors in warmer weather

Blood Orange Buttermilk Dressing

A Zesty Citrus Dressing – adds a great tang and balance to your favorite salads – and a wonderful color Try: Spring Grilled Asparagus Salad ~ Blood Orange Buttermilk Dressing (see recipe) A restaurant quality Spring Salad

A Mexican style rich stew with chicken, lots of vegetables, spices, tomatoes, chiles, sesame seeds, cocoa powder and bittersweet chocolate.

Incredible Mole Chicken & Vegetables on the Stovetop

A Mexican style rich stew with chicken, lots of vegetables, spices, tomatoes, chiles, sesame seeds, cocoa powder and bittersweet chocolate. Slow and even stovetop heat produces succulent ingredients. A one-pot meal… it’s all in there ~ chicken, vegetables, garbanzo beans and a complex just-spicy-enough mole sauce.

A Mexican style rich stew with chicken, lots of vegetables, spices, tomatoes, chiles, sesame seeds, cocoa powder and bittersweet chocolate.

Incredible Instant Pot Mole Chicken & Vegetables

A Mexican style rich stew with chicken, lots of vegetables, spices, tomatoes, chiles, sesame seeds, cocoa powder and bittersweet chocolate. An Instant Pot (easy pressure cooker) produces succulent ingredients. A one-pot meal… it’s all in there ~ chicken, vegetables, garbanzo beans and a complex just-spicy-enough mole sauce.

Homemade Kale Chips with miso and cashews are crunchy with an addictive flavor

Spicy Red Kale Chips with Cashews and Miso

Crispy, light & flavorful – these chips are quite easy to make. The ultimate healthy snack! Recipe: Baked and RAW Make a flavor paste~seasoned topping and simply massage into leaves and bake. An explosion of flavor!

Tahini Sesame Kale Chips with Za’atar Seasonings

Tahini Sesame Kale Chips with Za’atar Seasonings

Crispy, light & flavorful – these chips are quite easy to make. The ultimate healthy snack! Recipe: Baked and RAW Middle Eastern Flavors are rubbed into the leaves and baked until crunchy. An explosion of flavor!

Quick Easy Marmalade Jam

Quick Easy Marmalade Jam

Three ingredients stirred together and cooked for 30 minutes until jammy. Terrific on your morning toast! Try this marmalade in my Lemon Poppy Linzer Cookies – Vegan & Gluten Free. Also wonderful as a base for savory glazes.

Lemon Poppy Linzer Cookies - Vegan & Gluten Free

Lemon Poppy Linzer Cookies – Vegan & Gluten Free

Ever wanted to explore Vegan Baking? These cookies pack flavor and crunch… and yes – a little zesty! So, why not make your own? A few simple swaps will produce these delicious, crispy delightful cookies all can enjoy.

A few bites of heaven ~ this Spanish tapas recipe has authentic Spanish flavors with sautéed sliced cremini mushrooms, a smoked paprika aioli (garlic mayonnaise) and topped with Spanish Mahón cheese

Spanish Tapas with Mushrooms, Smoked Paprika Aioli and Mahón Cheese

Tapas ~ little bites of tasty foods with bold flavors from Spain. Crispy baguette slices covered with a quick sauté of mushrooms, spiked with sherry & brandy and topped with a delicious Spanish cheese until melted and bubbly Tapas are Spain’s greatest food invention! “Eat when you drink, drink when you eat” is the philosophy.  They are […]

Smoked Paprika Aioli (Spanish garlicky mayonnaise)

Karen’s Smoked Paprika Aioli (Garlicky Flavorful Mayonnaise)

Whisked by hand in a few minutes ~ a smokey, garlicky mayonnaise with a zesty flavor. An ingredient in my Spanish Mushroom Tapas Recipe. Use wherever you need a flavorful mayonnaise.

Potato Scaled Fish - oh so French.. oh so delicious!

Potato Scaled Fish – Inspired by Paul Bocuse

An elegant way to prepare fish – try my foolproof recipe to cook this classic dish. Paul Bocuse, the father of French gastronomy inspired the dish… I have added a wonderful Brown Butter-Garlic Drizzle with Parsley Oil Paul Bocuse was born in 1926 and is widely credited with being the father of French gastronomy. Being […]

Three bite tarts with a Chocolate Heart Decoration with Crushed Pretzels and Cacao Nibs

Black Bottom Chocolate Tarts with a Caramel Pretzel Crust

The Perfect Valentine’s Day Treat: Three bite tarts with a Chocolate Heart Decoration with Crushed Pretzels and Cacao Nibs Add a dollop whipped coconut cream. Say “I Love You” with these homemade treats! Dairy Free and Gluten Free tips!

easy to make Chocolate Heart Cut-Out Decorations with Pretzels and Cacao Nibs

Chocolate Heart Cut-Out Decorations with Pretzels and Cacao Nibs

So easy to make – use a good quality, not too sweet chocolate.. the ultimate finishing touch!

Warm Asparagus and Spinach Dip Lightened-Up

Warm Asparagus and Spinach Dip – Lightened Up

This delicious warm dip is a perfect appetizer for game day! Asparagus replaces artichokes for a flavor-twist. A bevy of vegetables keeps the fat content at bay.  A Killer Dip that won’t kill your waistline! A spin on the classic spinach artichoke dip… hot and bubbling from the oven, is pretty hard to beat.

Great caramel glaze for dipping my Baked Applesauce Donuts

Brown Butter Caramel Maple Glaze

Great for dipping my Baked Applesauce Donuts (see recipe) Browned Butter adds a nutty flavor to this glaze… Simple to prepare with natural caramel and maple syrup flavor

Baked Applesauce Donuts with Brown Butter Caramel Maple Glaze

Baked Applesauce Donuts with Brown Butter Caramel Maple Glaze

A super-satisfying treat you bake in donut tins. Decadent Glaze or Cinnamon-Sugar…your choice!

Portobello Pizzas with Slow Baked Cherry Tomatoes and topped with Basil Leaves and Crispy Baked Kale Ribbons

Portobello Mushroom Pizzas with Crispy Kale Ribbons

Magnificent Meatless Monday Recipe! Roast the mushroom caps (on a rack – they don’t get soggy!) add Marinara Sauce, Mozzarella Cheese, Slow Baked Cherry Tomatoes and top with Basil Leaves and Crispy Baked Kale Ribbons Mushrooms have a heavenly “meaty” texture and savory, irresistible “Umami” flavor. The perfect lunch, side dish, snack, dinner or appetizer […]

Celery Root Bisque Soup with Garlic Pita Croutons Recipe

Celery Root Bisque Soup with Garlic Pita Croutons

A healthy soup with a creamy texture from the celery root (celeriac) and potatoes. Delicious and Silky Smooth. Dairy Free. Add a swirl of Cashew Cream for a decorative touch. Vegan. A warming soup garnished with Garlic-Herb Pita Croutons and a Cashew Crema Swirl. Cashew Crema Swirl: Soak Raw Cashews – combine with 1/4 cup coconut […]

The perfect refreshing condiment with Indian cuisine.

Quick Pesto “Chutney”

Compliments my Fabulous “Tandoori Chicken in an Instant Pot.” Basil replaces mint in this easy to prepare condiment.

An Instant Pot transforms this Tandoori Chicken into a fall-off-the-bone delicious delight!

Fabulous Tandoori Chicken in an Instant Pot

New Year’s Cooking Resolution: Try Something New. An Instant Pot transforms this Tandoori Chicken into a fall-off-the-bone delicious delight! Recipe given for oven method too.

A hearty bowl of Chili with extra vegetables, plenty of chipotles and homemade Chili Powder for the ultimate flavor.

Turkey Chili with Homemade Chili Powder

A hearty bowl of Chili with extra vegetables, plenty of chipotles and homemade Chili Powder for the ultimate flavor. Gluten-Free. This is a big batch of Chili! Low in fat and chock full of all the good things in life: beans, fresh spices and loaded with vegetables.

Homemade chili powder with Guindilla Chiles and Pasilla Negro Chiles

Karen’s Homemade Chili Powder

Use the kick of chili peppers with complementary spices to create lively Mexican or Tex Mex fare. Mildy spicy ~ better than store-bought… you grind it fresh! Used as a spice to add pungency or piquancy and flavor to dishes. Homemade Chili Powder adds authentic essence and a freshly ground chili flavor that’s only mildly […]

A beautiful, crispy and crunchy salad with Winter-White Vegetables. Chioggia Beets add a touch of crimson color, as does the rind of the Pears and Black Radish.

Winter White Salad with Pink Peppercorn Vinaigrette

A beautiful, crispy and crunchy salad with Winter-White Vegetables. Chioggia Beets add a touch of crimson color, as does the rind of the Pears and Black Radish. A restaurant quality salad which is easy and fun to prepare.

A Zesty Pink Peppercorn Vinaigrette adds tang and bite. Drizzle over: Winter White Salad

Pink Peppercorn Vinaigrette

A Zesty Pink Peppercorn Vinaigrette adds tang and bite. Drizzle over: Winter White Salad (see recipe) Pink Peppercorns have a fruity and peppery flavor. They aren’t actually, in fact, a member of the peppercorn family, but are the berries of Peruvian pepper tree that grows throughout South America. Buy them whole and grind in a spice grinder, crush […]

Crispy Chocolate Chip Cookies – Gluten-Free!

Crispy Chocolate Chip Cookies – Gluten-Free!

Finally… the perfect chocolate chip cookie that’s deliciously gluten-free (you would never know they are!) Chocolate Hazelnut Butter adds depth ~ add plenty of Bittersweet Chocolate Chunks Delicious crispy cookies with a melt-in-your-mouth texture  

Basil, Kale & Chive Pistou

Basil, Kale & Chive Pistou

An Herbal Pistou ~ Basil, Kale and Chives with garlic and extra virgin olive oil processed to a creamy paste. Adds a zesty and flavorful essence to soups, brushetta, pasta, vegetables and more! Similar to Pesto, but without nuts. Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese is optional…delicious without.

A wonderful, hearty and healthy Vegetable Soup with Mediterranean ingredients.

Mediterranean Vegetable Soup

Here is how I make a wonderful, hearty and healthy Vegetable Soup with Mediterranean ingredients. This is a guide… use the ingredients you have or prefer to your taste. Easily made gluten-free.

Thanksgiving Leftover Chef Salad ~ Cranberry Sauce Vinaigrette

Thanksgiving Leftover Chef Salad ~ Cranberry Sauce Vinaigrette

Make the most of your Thanksgiving leftovers with this healthy & tasty salad. Use what you have! Drizzle with this Cranberry Sauce Vinaigrette (it takes minutes to prepare!)

a luscious vinaigrette made with your leftover cranberry sauce

Cranberry Sauce Vinaigrette

Use your leftover Cranberry Sauce… you know you’ll have some! Make a delicious Vinaigrette, perfect for your salad creations after Thanksgiving.

Applesauce Linzer Bars (Gluten-Free Variation as well)

Karen’s Applesauce Linzer Bars (Gluten-Free Variation as well)

Tastes like an apple crumb pie in a bar! Perfect for your Thanksgiving dessert buffet – not too sweet with a touch of warm spices. A wonderful weeknight recipe for Fall and Winter. The mixture (dough) doubles as a topping. Oatmeal, almonds and walnuts in the crust/topping adds a healthy content and fiber. Attention all you […]

A simple, not too sweet applesauce that cooks in about 15 minutes.

Karen’s Homemade Applesauce – Perfect for Applesauce Linzer Bars

A simple, not too sweet applesauce that cooks in about 15 minutes. Better than store-bought! Use in recipes, or eat by the spoonful…

Kabocha Squash Soup with Apples and Cashew Crema - Vegan

Kabocha Squash Soup with Apples and Cashew Crema – Vegan

Perfect for Thanksgiving! See my easy way to peel a Kabocha Squash. You’ll love the Cashew Crema with hints of maple & cinnamon ~ the Spiced Cashews make a terrific, crunchy garnish A universal soup all and your Vegan guests will adore! Can make the soup ahead and freeze for a hassle- free Thanksgiving soup. […]

A Zesty and Mildly-Spicy Seasoning Blend. Perfect for everyday cooking – adds a Caribbean flair!

Karen’s Caribbean All-Purpose Seasoning

A Zesty and Mildly-Spicy Seasoning Blend. Perfect for everyday cooking – adds a Caribbean flair! A mildly spicy seasoning with a little kick. Blending yourself insures freshness – and very low sodium. Try with my recipe: Spiced Caribbean Chicken Meatballs in Coconut Milk Gravy

Zesty Caribbean Flavors in the meatballs and this creamy, addictive sauce! Gluten- Free and Dairy Free.

Spiced Caribbean Chicken Meatballs in Coconut Milk Gravy

Zesty Caribbean Flavors in the meatballs and this creamy, addictive sauce! Gluten- Free and Dairy Free. A wonderful main course or the ultimate appetizer.

Fall Salad with Pears, Pomegranate Seeds and Zesty Garlic

Fall Salad with Pears, Pomegranate Seeds and Zesty Garlic Confit Vinaigrette

A light Fall Salad with crunchy textures dressed with a Zesty-Lemony Vinaigrette with Confit Garlic A delicious and healthy Fall Salad with Caramelized Pears, three Greens, julienned Purple Carrots, Pecan Halves, Pomegranate Seeds and an awesome Zesty Garlic Confit Vinaigrette. Serve with my Garlic Cheesy Toast (with Garlic Confit)

A Zesty-Lemony Vinaigrette with mellow Garlic Confit ~ softened Garlic and Oil

Zesty Garlic Confit Vinaigrette

A Zesty-Lemony Vinaigrette with mellow Garlic Confit ~ softened Garlic and Oil  

White Chicken Chili makes a delicious meal full of mildly-spicy Chili Flavor, Red Lentils, Butternut Squash and Chicken.

Chicken-Lentil Chili with Butternut Squash

White Chicken Chili makes a delicious meal full of mildly-spicy Chili Flavor, Red Lentils, Butternut Squash and Chicken. This light & tasty chili gets and extra flavor-pop with my Raw Tomatillo Salsa

A Zesty Salsa with an extraordinary- fresh flavor.

Raw Tomatillo Salsa

A Zesty Salsa with an extraordinary- fresh flavor. Choose tomatillos that are ripe, firm  with a nice vibrant green color.

A wonderful hearty soup; creamy and chunky and full of flavor!

Vegan Creamy Corn Chowder

A wonderful hearty soup; creamy and chunky and full of flavor! Take advantage of late summer corn – it’s been a wonderful season.

Carrots caramelize with the figs with a delectable just-sweet-enough glaze… all roasted in one pan

Roasted Carrots with Fresh Figs ~ Pomegranate Glaze and Pistachios

The perfect side dish for late summer ~ early fall. Carrots caramelize with the figs with a delectable just-sweet-enough glaze…  all roasted in one pan. A Vegan recipe. Here is a colorful, balanced side-dish that excites the palate rather than weigh it down. The perfect combination of roasted veggies & fruits with nuts, herbs and a zippy (well….zesty!) […]

Eggplant Parm Salad: Deconstructed

Eggplant Parm Salad: Deconstructed

Crispy Eggplant roasted in the oven teams with Romaine, Mozzarella, Heirloom Tomatoes, a Zesty Dressing and plenty of Basil ~ a satisfying and interesting twist! Eggplant turns out crispy with a creamy, soft center. Not fried but oven-roasted with lots of flavor from the sourdough breadcrumbs, parmesan reggiano cheese and oregano. 

Perfect for snacking, and makes a Pie Crust more delicious than graham cracker crumbs!

Karen’s Granola for Snacking & Pie Crust

Perfect for snacking, and makes a Pie Crust more delicious than graham cracker crumbs!

Frozen Raspberry Marshmallow Pie with a Granola Crust

Raspberry Marshmallow Pie with Granola Crust

An Unbelievable, Simple Pie with only 4 ingredients and a press-in Granola Crust. Dream-like light filling with plenty of fresh raspberry flavor. I went Raspberry Picking in August – see these gorgeous raspberries, some with the stems still attached!

A quick emulsified dressing with glorious color and flavor. Team with my Simple Tomato & Feta Salad with Dill and Radish Vinaigrette

Zesty Dill and Radish Vinaigrette

A quick emulsified dressing with glorious color and flavor. Team with my Simple Tomato & Feta Salad with Dill and Radish Vinaigrette (see recipe)

Heirloom Tomatoes ~ Bite-Sized, Team up with Creamy French Feta Cubes with a Zesty Vinaigrette for a Simple Summer Salad

Simple Tomato & Feta Salad with Dill and Radish Vinaigrette

Heirloom Tomatoes ~ Bite-Sized,  Team up with Creamy French Feta Cubes with a Zesty Vinaigrette for a Simple Summer Salad.  Just picked flavors of the smaller sized tomatoes, simply cut in half team with sliced cubes of French Feta, drenched in Fresh-Cut Dill – a goat’s milk variety made in France which is slightly drier and […]

A Quick Healthy Summer Meal Served Hot Off the Grill. Make the Zesty Gingery-Miso Dressing ahead for a speedy recipe.

Grilled Shrimp & Pineapple with Gingery-Miso Dressing

A Quick Healthy Summer Meal Served Hot Off the Grill. Make the Zesty Gingery-Miso Dressing ahead for a speedy recipe. Pineapple is wonderful grilled and adds natural sweetness to the dish.  

A Zesty Sauce and Dressing. Great on a stir-fry, grilled proteins or over a salad

Gingery-Miso Dressing

A Zesty Sauce and Dressing. Great on a stir-fry, grilled proteins or over a salad

Grilled Eggplant Rolled with an Herbal Ricotta and Creamy Burrata Cheese Filling and Baked with a Zesty Marinara.

Grilled Eggplant Rollatini with Garlicky Parmesan Breadcrumb Topping

A Summer Pleasure: Grilled Eggplant Rolled with a Herbal Ricotta and Creamy Burrata Cheese Filling and Baked with a Zesty Marinara. Add some crunch and interest with a Garlicky-Parmesan Breadcrumb Topping. Lightened-Up Vegetarian Comfort Food! A lighter touch~ Eggplant is grilled, not fried. A crisp topping adds just the right touch. I’ve used Gluten- Free Breadcrumbs.

Karen’s Fresh Caramelized Corn and Roasted Tomato Salsa

Charred and stirred in a skillet, then cooled, this summer salsa packs a lot of flavor! Who doesn’t love a good homemade salsa? Summer corn is at it’s glory right now! Varieties like Silver Queen (a generic name for white corn), Golden Bantam for yellow and Butter and Sugar for bicolor corn – take your pick…all […]

The Ultimate Grilled Burger Wrapped in Lettuces with Onion and Heirloom Tomatoes ~ Homemade Ranch Dressing.

Lettuce Wrapped Chicken Burger with Zesty Ranch

The Ultimate Grilled Burger Wrapped in Lettuces with Onion and Heirloom Tomatoes ~ Homemade Ranch Dressing. Pulse chicken in a food processor, then add vegetables and seasonings for these amazing burgers

Whisk these ingredients together for a zesty ranch dressing

Homemade Zesty Ranch Sauce and Dressing

So much better than store-bought! Whisk these ingredients together – for a sauce… add some lemon juice for a dressing If you like this recipe, SUBSCRIBE (here) to my weekly newsletter ~ never miss a recipe!

Cedar Planked Salmon with an easy-to prepare Planked Salmon with Pistachio-Tarragon & Lavender Gremolata Pistachio Planked Salmon with Pistachio-Tarragon & Lavender Gremolata smothered on top

Cedar Planked Salmon with Pistachio-Tarragon & Lavender Gremolata

Cedar Planked King Salmon is an Easy Summer-Time Dish with a lush, smokey essence ~ the Flavorful Gremolata takes only minutes to prepare

Easy to prepare Gremolata ~ adds a blast of flavor with citrusy notes. Perfect for fish, vegetables, chicken and grains

Pistachio-Tarragon & Lavender Gremolata

Easy to prepare ~ adds a blast of flavor with citrusy notes. Perfect for fish, vegetables, chicken and grains. 

Frozen Boozy Watermelon Frosé - the drink of Summer!

Blender Watermelon Frosé

Frozen Watermelon & Coconut Milk Cubes and Rosé Wine with a Float of White Rum – Invite Some Guests… It’s Party Time. THE Drink of the Summer! Frosé is a wine-based summery slushie that’s cold and refreshing.

Gluten-Free Flour in the Gnocchi dough is easy to handle – yes… you can do this!

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

A lovely melange of seasonal vegetables with cherry tomatoes, and three types of peppers

Jamaican Triple Pepper Sauté

A lovely melange of seasonal vegetables with cherry tomatoes, and three types of peppers

A spicy Jamaican mixture including hot chili peppers, allspice, cinnamon, and thyme.

Karen’s Amazing Jerk Chicken

This Jerk Marinade EXPLODES with Flavor! A spicy Jamaican mixture including hot chili peppers, allspice, cinnamon, and thyme.

Layer the cherry salsa with the tortilla chips and cheeses and bake

Fresh Cherry Salsa

During the height of the “cherry season” ~ try this wonderful Cherry Salsa that’s tart, spicy with a hint of sweetness. Add to layers of tortilla chips and cheeses for the ultimate, updated NACHOS ~ YUM!

Fresh Cherry Salsa over layered Nachos in a vintage pan

Layered Cheese Nachos with Fresh Cherry Salsa

These nachos is very satisfying and craveable. Fresh Cherry Salsa adds tart-sweet and spicy notes – addicting!!

A twist on the Spanish “Tortita” ~ these vegetable griddle cakes are delicious.. you can’t eat just one!

Karen’s 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. I just […]

Karen’s Smokey & Cheesy Grits

Karen’s Smokey & Cheesy Grits

Smoked garlic and maple smoked cheddar make it special. Perfectly paired with grilled shrimp over creamy stirred grits. Parsley joins basil in the pesto mix.

Better than store-bought bottled – yes you can make your own BBQ sauce at home!

Karen’s All Natural Smokey Apricot-Tomato Barbecue Sauce

Better than store-bought bottled – yes you can make your own BBQ sauce at home! This is the best down-home All American Barbecue Sauce!

Chock full of flavor from the brine with mustard seeds, red pepper flakes and freshly cracked black pepper.

Karen’s Zesty Quick Dill Refrigerator Pickles

So fun to make – and delicious to eat. Pickles are stored in the refrigerator – no special equipment required. Chock full of flavor from the brine with mustard seeds, red pepper flakes and freshly cracked black pepper. Low in salt & sugar too! Gourmet quality you proudly make in your kitchen in less than 30 […]

Spinach, Feta and Tomato Quiche with Wild & Brown Rice Crust

Spinach, Feta and Tomato Quiche with Wild & Brown Rice Crust

Bursting with Flavor and Color – this Naturally Gluten-Free Quiche makes the perfect hassle-free brunch, lunch or healthy dinner Bursting with Flavor and Color – this Naturally Gluten-Free Quiche makes the perfect hassle-free brunch, lunch or healthy dinner. With an interesting rice crust – gluten free. 

Prepare an easy tart dough that is so flaky, you won’t believe it’s gluten-free. Hemp seeds add interest and extra protein.

Hemp Seed Pate Brisee ~ Gluten–Free

An indispensable recipe for those who savor a meatless entrée with this contemporary, updated tart. Prepare an easy tart dough that is so flaky, you won’t believe it’s gluten-free. Hemp seeds add interest and extra protein. For savory and sweet applications. 

Asian-Style Satay Sauce made with Sunflower Seed Butter for a nutty-sweet flavor, yet NUT FREE.

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 Quinoa Tabbouleh - Vegetable Salad (Naturally Gluten-Free)

Karen’s Quinoa Tabbouleh – Vegetable Salad (Naturally Gluten-Free)

My version of they healthy Middle Eastern Salad spiked with a melange of Vegetables is tossed in a Zesty Lemony- Scallion Dressing. One of the healthiest salads you can eat. Refreshing and Addictive!

Simply Delicious ~ Wood Fired Infused Smoked Beets easily prepared on your grill. Finish the Salad with Petite Greens and a Zesty Avocado-Citrus Vinaigrette.

Wood Fired Beet Salad with Avocado-Citrus Vinaigrette

Simply Delicious ~ Wood Fired Infused Smoked Beets easily prepared on your grill. Finish the Salad with Petite Greens and a Zesty Avocado-Citrus Vinaigrette. 

A zesty, simple emulsified vinaigrette with lemon and lime and little cubes of fresh avocados

Avocado-Citrus Vinaigrette

A zesty, simple emulsified vinaigrette with lemon and lime and little cubes of fresh avocados 

Modern Shrimp Louis: A Comeback for a Classic Dish

Modern Shrimp Louis Salad

A Comeback for a Classic Dish! This fresh, seafood-rich trendsetter recipe of the early 20th century takes on a modern flair with Fresh (not frozen) Pink Shrimp and a zippy Louis Sauce 

For a zippy modern shrimp louis dressing whisk all ingredients together, and toss with fresh steamed shrimp

Modern Shrimp Louis Dressing

Yes, you have been making hard boiled eggs all wrong! This single technique, you will steam them – SO EASY TO PEEL!!

How to Hard-Boil Eggs: Best Way Is To Steam Them!

Yes, you have been making hard boiled eggs all wrong! This single technique, you will steam them – SO EASY TO PEEL!! Yes, you have been making hard boiled eggs all wrong! This single technique, you will steam them – SO EASY TO PEEL!! Most everyone thinks (and have written) to boil eggs – Cover them […]

My Favorite Deviled Eggs: Grainy Mustard, Purple Scallions, Thyme and a Crisp and Lacy Baked Cheese Frico Makes Them Pungent and Zesty

Deviled Eggs with Purple Scallions and Crisp Cheese Frico

My Favorite Deviled Eggs: Grainy Mustard, Purple Scallions, Thyme and a Crisp and Lacy Baked Cheese Frico Makes Them Pungent and Zesty

Making Gluten Free Matzo Balls: Scoop the matzo balls for poaching; use an ice cream scoop for uniform size

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! Nothing says Passover like a good bowl of matzo ball soup. Matzo balls are more traditionally known as kneidlach (Yiddish for dumplings.) Don’t despair if you Mother or Bubbe never graced you with lessons of rolling and poaching the perfect […]

A quick Vegetable stock, great to have on hand in the freezer for your culinary creations.

Vegetable Stock in a Wok

A quick Vegetable stock, great to have on hand in the freezer for your culinary creations.

A delicious and versatile sauce topped with a yogurt marinated grilled chicken kebob. Spice up your palate! The sauce is Vegan.

Marinated Chicken Kebabs – Indian Style

Marinate the chicken overnight for the best flavor.. don’t forget to soak your bamboo skewers!

This delicious chutney provides a great balance to a rich, spicy curry. Grating the mango creates an interesting texture.

Sweet and Sour Grated Mango Chutney

This delicious chutney provides a great balance to a rich, spicy curry. Grating the mango creates an interesting texture.  Wonderful served with Crispy Onion Bhajis.

It's mildly spicy, creamy, savory flavor makes it more than just delicious… it’s addictive!

Karen’s Butter Chicken

Most Probably the Best Known of all Indian Dishes ~ It’s mildly spicy, creamy, savory flavor makes it more than just delicious… it’s addictive! Note: I use coconut milk instead of heavy cream in many classic recipes… I think it’s delicious. This recipe is well worth the time – the second time you prepare it, it […]

A bevy of vegetables enrich this soup, ginger and garlic add a boost of flavor

Chicken in the Pot Soup with Many Vegetables, Rice Noodles and Fresh Ginger

Comfort Soup in a Bowl. Gluten-Free.

Soaking dried porcini mushrooms is key to this soup. The liquid is a beautiful deep brown color and lends ton of flavor.

Mushroom Soup with Chestnut and Cashew Cream

A hearty and healthy warming soup loaded with umami — yum! I like sauteing two kinds of fresh mushrooms (many locally sourced) for a nice flavor contrast; shiitake and cremini. Vegan and Gluten-Free

The original menu offering of “Lobster Savannah” dates back to 1964 in New Orleans - steamed lobster and a light sauce dotted with cheese and baked.

Lobster Savannah

An Elegant Valentine Dinner Treat for 2 ~ A LOVE-ly dish with a healthy profile The original menu offering of “Lobster Savannah” dates back to 1964, served at an elegant establishment – The Andrew Jackson Restaurant in New Orleans.

Yes, even the cherished recipe for guacamole can be modified, respectfully, for a deeper flavor and other favorable nuances.

New Guacamole with Roasted Zucchini and Lime Zest

A luscious and velvety Guacamole! Lower in fat but high in flavor – add some roasted zucchini for the perfect blend! Yes, even the cherished recipe for guacamole can be modified, respectfully, for a deeper flavor and other favorable nuances.

Made with natural ingredients with a healthier profile. The dough is simply made on the stove top, dropped and baked. Lacy- Crispy goodness.

Cashew Caramel Lace Cookies

It’s time to celebrate the holidays with a cookie that’s hard to resist! Made with natural ingredients with a healthier profile. The dough is simply made on the stove top, dropped and baked. Lacy- Crispy goodness.

A delicious and versatile sauce topped with a yogurt marinated grilled chicken kebob. Spice up your palate! The sauce is Vegan.

Coconut-Cashew Curry Sauce with Indian Flavors ~ Spiced Chicken Kebab

A delicious and versatile sauce topped with a yogurt marinated grilled chicken kebob. Spice up your palate! The sauce is Vegan.

Pickled Vegetables perk up many dishes with their assertive flavor. Use the juices too!

Crispy Skate with Browned Butter, Capers and Pickled Radishes

Dusting the fish with rice flour and cooking in a hot skillet creates a skate that is “crispy.”

Pickled Vegetables perk up many dishes with their assertive flavor. Use the juices too!

Karen’s Quick Pickled Radishes (with Cubanelle Peppers)

Pickled Vegetables perk up many dishes with their assertive flavor. Use the juices too! I’m using it over sautéed fish.

Make these special cookies for Valentine’s Day – your choice of two fillings. Red walnuts make them special.

Brownie Sandwich Thins ~ Heart Shaped Cut Out Cookies

Make these special cookies for Valentine’s Day – your choice of two fillings. Red walnuts make them special.

A satisfying and nutritious soup with creamy pine nuts blended in ~ warming and inviting.

Healthful Carrot and Pine Nut Soup

A satisfying and nutritious soup with creamy pine nuts blended in ~ warming and inviting.  An easy blender soup enriched with colorful heirloom carrots, steamed, and added to the pot. Baking the nuts with smokey seasonings and coconut oil awakens the soup and adds a layer of characteristic flavor.

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.

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.

IS BLACK THE NEW BROWN? The ultimate antioxidant salad loaded with great taste, texture and color.

Black Rice Salad with Raw and Roasted Vegetables, Feta Cheese and Oregano-Citrus Vinaigrette

IS BLACK THE NEW BROWN? The ultimate antioxidant salad loaded with great taste, texture and color.

A zesty vinaigrette with fresh oregano and citrus juices

Oregano-Citrus Vinaigrette

A zesty vinaigrette with fresh oregano and citrus juices

Love hummus? Beetroot dip triumphs with flavor and color! There’s a new, healthy dip in town.

Beetroot Spread & Dip – a great alternative to hummus.

Love hummus? Beetroot dip triumphs with flavor and color! There’s a new, healthy dip in town. Tips for building the ultimate vegetarian sandwich!

Flavor the flesh of Wild Caught Alaskan Salmon with Lavender, Dill, Vodka and Pink Peppercorns. An elegant gravlax that also can be prepared with any fresh salmon.

White Wild Salmon Gravlax with Cracked Pepper and Lavender

Flavor the flesh of Wild Caught Alaskan Salmon with Lavender, Dill, Vodka and Pink Peppercorns. An elegant gravlax that also can be prepared with any fresh salmon. Super simple – the salmon is coated and weighted for three days – then ready to thinly slice and enjoy.

A wonderful and flavorful dip with hints of miso, orange, ginger and sesame

Japanese Style Eggplant Dip with Miso, Orange and Shichimi Togarashi Seasoning

A wonderful and flavorful dip with hints of miso, orange, ginger and sesame

Lebneh Balls - Yogurt Cheese with Herbs, Spices, Walnuts and Olive Oil

Lebneh Balls – Yogurt Cheese with Herbs, Spices, Walnuts and Olive Oil

Dip into this home made treat that’s simple to make – has a luxurious velvety texture and flavor with subtle and assertive flavors you love. Extra Virgin Olive Oil surrounds these delicious protein-packed yogurt cheese balls as does herbs, spices, lemon rind and crunchy walnuts.

Delicious chicken and vegetables with sliced clementines in a crimped envelope of parchment ~ all the natural juices sealed in.

Chicken En Papillote ~ Asian Style

 Delicious chicken and vegetables with sliced clementines in a crimped envelope of parchment ~ all the natural juices sealed in. 

Oven baked and delicious zucchini fries with a crispy coating of shredded coconut, corn meal and gluten-free flour.

Crispy Coconut Baked Zucchini Sticks with Avocado Ranch Dip

Oven baked and delicious zucchini fries with a crispy coating of shredded coconut, corn meal and gluten-free flour. Serve with a creamy, luscious avocado dip flavored with coconut oil. Tips given for using a fresh coconut to make home made coconut milk and shredded coconut. Gluten-Free

Oven baked and delicious zucchini fries with a crispy coating of shredded coconut, corn meal and gluten-free flour.

Avocado Ranch Dip

A wonderful dip – made with coconut mayonnaise

The Ultimate Anti-Oxidant Salad Bursting with Color and Flavor… It’s Berry-Good!

Fruit and Nut Salad with Kaniwa, Blueberries, Almonds and Kale

The Ultimate Anti-Oxidant Salad Bursting with Color and Flavor… It’s Berry-Good!

Transforms the ingredients of Chimichurri into a healthy and delectable creamy dressing.

Salad Wedge with Chimichurri Dressing, Feta, Radishes and Pepitas

An easy salad with a good crunch that is simple and delicious! Transforms the ingredients of Chimichurri into a healthy and delectable creamy dressing.

A healthy, vibrant green dressing with zest! Chimichurri is a piquant sauce or marinade (in South American and Mexican cooking)

Chimichurri Dressing

A healthy, vibrant green dressing with zest! Chimichurri is a piquant sauce or marinade (in South American and Mexican cooking) ~ I’ve used the ingredients and created this dressing.

Fresh Spring produce shines in this quiche with a simple cracker crumb base and truffled cheddar cheese to compliment. Go-Green!

Go Green Spring Quiche with Truffled Cheese

Fresh Spring produce shines in this quiche with a simple cracker crumb base and truffled cheddar cheese to compliment. Go-Green!

Simple ingredients transform into a moist and heavenly orange-almond flourless cake. Reminiscent of a Sicilian recipe, Mediterranean ingredients, using Marcona Almonds and Clementine Oranges from Spain. Inspired by movie: “The Secret Lives of Walter Mitty.”

Clementine Cake with Marcona Almonds

Simple ingredients transform into a moist and heavenly orange-almond flourless cake. Reminiscent of a Sicilian recipe, Mediterranean ingredients, using Marcona Almonds and Clementine Oranges from Spain. Inspired by movie: “The Secret Lives of Walter Mitty.”

Use to frost my Clementine Cake with Marcona Almonds – a moist, naturally gluten-free dessert

Caramel Orange Cream Cheese Frosting

Use to frost my Clementine Cake with Marcona Almonds – a moist, naturally gluten-free dessert

Karen’s Blueberry Jam

Pecan Chicken and Waffle Appetizer with Sautéed Collards and Maple-Bourbon Drizzle

Pecan Chicken and Waffle Appetizer with Sautéed Collards and Maple-Bourbon Drizzle

The Ultimate Appetizer with Southern Charm ~ Grilled Chicken with Pecans and a Maple-Bourbon Glaze on top of crisp Buttermilk Waffles and Sweet and Sour Sautéed Collard Greens On a recent trip to Charleston, South Carolina I fell in love with the cuisine of the low country; the flavors and lingering aromas. The picturesque city with […]

Delicious buttermilk waffles: Use as a base for appetizers – Karen’s Southern Pecan Chicken & Waffles with Collard Sauté and Bourbon- Maple Drizzle.

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.

Sautéed Collard Greens top these buttermilk waffles and are topped with “grilled pecan chicken” for the ultimate appetizer

Sautéed Collard Greens – Sweet and Sour

Wasabi, Lime and Dill flavor these simple Salmon Cakes. Without breadcrumbs- and they hold together beautifully. A perfect light dinner or healthy lunch. Gluten-free. Serve with my Green Goddess Dressing and Spring Vegetables.

Natural Salmon Cakes – Gluten-Free

Wasabi, Lime and Dill flavor these simple Salmon Cakes. Without breadcrumbs- and they hold together beautifully. A perfect light dinner or healthy lunch. Gluten-free. Serve with my Green Goddess Dressing and Spring Vegetables.

A beautiful bright color and an herbal-zesty flavor, made in a blender ~ use as a dressing and dip

Green Goddess Dressing and Dip

A beautiful bright color and an herbal-zesty flavor, made in a blender ~ use as a dressing and dip

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.

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.

shaved carrots combine with coconut, beets and mint leaves with a Sesame-Ginger Dressing

Carrot-Coconut-Mint Salad with Sesame-Ginger Dressing

Three recipe suggestions below using the Sesame-Ginger Dressing – which is also an awesome marinade!  

A Zesty & Pungent Dressing and Marinade ~ which is versatile for everyday cooking… brightens up all it touches. Big, bold flavors await in this simple, whisked dressing/marinade.

Sesame-Ginger Dressing and Marinade

A Zesty & Pungent Dressing and Marinade ~ which is versatile for everyday cooking… brightens up all it touches. Big, bold flavors await in this simple, whisked dressing/marinade.  

Sesame Wafers - Thin, Crispy & Gluten-Free

Sesame Wafers – Thin, Crispy & Gluten-Free

The nutty taste of the toasted sesame seeds (benne), a hint of sea salt, and the caramel sweet flavor from the coconut brown sugar sugar – a crunchy mélange of flavors in these easy to prepare treats… low in fat too!

A robust soup with plenty of vegetables and spiced up with traditional Cuban flavors. Garnished with a lemon-crema and irresistible baked plantains. Warming and healthy! Vegetarian and Gluten-Free.

Cuban Style Lentil Soup with Baked Plantains and Lemon Crema

A robust soup with plenty of vegetables and spiced up with traditional Cuban flavors. Garnished with a lemon-crema and irresistible baked plantains. Warming and healthy! Vegetarian and Gluten-Free.

A fabulous versatile seasoning blend with a Cuban-kick. Perfect for vegetables, rice, beans, legumes, poultry, meat and veggies proteins.

Karen’s Homemade Salt Free Sazón Cuban Seasoning

A fabulous versatile seasoning blend with a Cuban-kick. Perfect for vegetables, rice, beans, legumes, poultry, meat and veggies proteins. Sazón Ingredients: Includes some of the unhealthiest & worst ingredients!Monosodium glutamate, salt, dehydrated garlic, cumin, yellow 5, tricalcium phosphate (an anti-caking agent), coriander, annatto (color), red 40  

Learn how to make the most delicious homemade caramel from scratch. The ultimate Valentine’s Day treat!

Chocolate Turtles with Homemade Natural Caramel

Give your sweetie these delectable candies and learn how to make the most delicious homemade caramel from scratch. The ultimate Valentine’s Day treat!

Sweet Potato Tater-Tots with Tortilla Crumbs ~ Hot Sauce Honey-Butter Glaze and Blue Cheese Dip

The perfect vegetarian appetizer for your Super Bowl party – Crispy tater-tots with a healthy profile. Rolled in multi-grain tortilla chips and baked- served with a Honey-Hot Sauce-Butter Glaze and Blue Cheese Dip. Move over chicken wings… Vegetarian and Gluten-Free.

Sizzling Flounder with Soy, Lemon and Sesame

Sizzling Flounder with Soy, Lemon and Sesame

To commemorate Chinese New Year, I am sharing one of my all-time favorite recipes: Sizzling Flounder. Simple Asian flavors surround this healthy, light and delicious dish – a must try for my readers.

Pumpkin Scones with Pecans, Cranberries and Coconut

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.

It’s Winter Citrus Season – these low acid, sweet Cara Cara navel oranges entice a Caesar-style dressing with zest! A Wonderful – Simple Salad with crunch and a daily dose of garlic.

Little Gem Salad with Cara Cara Caesar-ish Dressing with Garlic Parmesan Toasts

It’s Winter Citrus Season – these low acid, sweet Cara Cara navel oranges entice a Caesar-style dressing with zest! A Wonderful – Simple Salad with crunch and a daily dose of garlic.

It’s Winter Citrus Season – these low acid, sweet Cara Cara navel oranges entice a Caesar-style dressing with zest!

Cara Cara Orange Caesar-ish Dressing

It’s Winter Citrus Season – these low acid, sweet Cara Cara navel oranges entice a Caesar-style dressing with zest!

This packet-steaming method produces incredibly tender chicken with minimal effort. An attractive presentation – perfect for a weeknight meal… elegant enough for company

Asian Chicken in Parchment – Homemade Hoisin Sauce

This packet-steaming method produces incredibly tender chicken with minimal effort. An attractive presentation – perfect for a weeknight meal… elegant enough for company

Homemade Hoisin Sauce – Better Than Store-Bought

Thick, satisfying and better than store- bought without chemicals or preservatives. Hint: You’ll want to double the recipe and use it for many recipes… great for a stir-fry and dipping sauce too!

Serve the warm mushrooms and offer glasses of full-bodied Tuscan wine

Tuscan Stuffed Mushrooms

The pick up appetizer that’s a party-pleaser, your guests will ask you for the recipe! Ring in the New Year with these make-ahead delicious morsels.

Karen's Beet Cured Gravlax on a Potato Latke

Karen’s Beet Cured Gravlax

Gravlax is quite simple to prepare – brined with Vodka, Citrus Juices, Grated Beets, Dill, Sugar, Salt and Pepper. Weighted down, the gravlax is ready in two days – slice when ready to enjoy.   

These perfectly spiced capons remain juicy with a crisp skin and will add a flavorful and festive touch to your buffet! Try my Za’atar Seasoning Blend – a versatile Middle Eastern / Mediterranean mix.

Roast Za’atar Capons with Za’atar Seasoning Blend

Holiday Entertaining? These perfectly spiced capons remain juicy with a crisp skin and will add a flavorful and festive touch to your buffet! Try my Za’atar Seasoning Blend – a versatile Middle Eastern / Mediterranean mix.

Mediterranean spices - fabulous rubbed into poultry, mix with olive oil for a delicious spread – use with bread, dips, hummus, vegetables, meat, salad dressings and salad.

Karen’s Za’atar Seasoning Blend

Za’atar, an intensely aromatic and ancient spice blend and condiment with eastern Mediterranean spices. Fabulous rubbed into poultry, mix with olive oil for a delicious spread – use with bread, dips, hummus, vegetables, meat, salad dressings and salad.

Baked Potato Soup with Potato Skin Croutons Recipe

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.

My favorite winter ingredients together in a salad worthy of entertaining. Bitter and sweet flavors with crunch and a decadent dressing.

Winter Salad with Grilled Radicchio and Pomegranate-Macadamia Vinaigrette

My favorite winter ingredients together in a salad worthy of entertaining. Bitter and sweet flavors with crunch and a decadent dressing.

A Vinaigrette with a tart- sweet flavor - macadamia oil adds a buttery and luxurious taste

Pomegranate-Macadamia Vinaigrette

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!

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 Marsala Turkey Gravy for Thanksgiving

Karen’s Marsala Turkey Gravy for Thanksgiving

Just the most magnificent gravy – with a deep, rich mahogany- brown color, and luscious flavor. Happy Thanksgiving! Karen Just the most magnificent gravy – with a deep, rich mahogany- brown color, and luscious flavor! Follow my clear and important method. It will make your Thanksgiving celebration a hit!

Poached Pears in Spiced Red Wine and Pomegranate Juice with Caramel Zabaglione

Caramel Zabaglione

A creamy and rich caramel custard, perfect with poached pears ~ especially for the holidays.

Spiced, beautiful pears swimming in a ruby syrup with a creamy zabaglione custard - perfect for the holidays

Poached Pears in Spiced Red Wine & Pomegranate Juice (with Caramel Zabaglione)

The perfect ending to a holiday meal (Thanksgiving!) Spiced, beautiful pears swimming in a ruby syrup with a creamy zabaglione custard.

A wonderful spread with roasted garlic cloves for a mellow touch. Add some zest with the balsamic-honey drizzle

Goat Cheese and Garlic Pâté with Walnuts and Chives ~ Balsamic-Honey Drizzle

Holiday Entertaining just got a little easier with this tempting pâté – the perfect appetizer for Thanksgiving and Christmas celebrations. This Garlic – flavored pâté (a creamy, composed dip) makes a great start to any meal as it awakens your taste buds! Truly simple to prepare – start by roasting the three garlic heads in the oven […]

Hearty Mediterranean Fish Soup

Hearty Mediterranean Fish Soup

 This hearty and flavorful soup will transport you to southern France with your first spoonful. A fragrant, saffron and fennel scented soup has a tomato base and luminous chunks of tender white fish.

A comforting, warm bowl of flavorful noodles infused with flavors of ginger, garlic, red chiles and coconut milk. A quick basting sauce transforms tofu & chicken into delicious morsels to toss in. A large dose of vegetables makes for a healthful meal.

Coconut Curry Noodles with Tofu and Chicken

A comforting, warm bowl of flavorful noodles infused with flavors of ginger, garlic, red chiles and coconut milk.  A quick basting sauce transforms tofu & chicken into delicious morsels to toss in. A large dose of vegetables makes for a healthful meal. 

This classic American salad gets a revamp with a lighter taste. Lots of crunch from the seasonal apples, celery and walnuts with mellow additions ~ kale, roasted squash, grapes and a creamy yogurt-mayo cinnamon dressing.

Waldorf Salad with Roasted Delicata Squash, Kale and Apples

This classic American salad gets a revamp with a lighter taste. Lots of crunch from the seasonal apples, celery and walnuts with mellow additions ~ kale, roasted squash, grapes and a creamy yogurt-mayo cinnamon dressing. A new classic!

Rustic Tomato Soup with extra garlic and grilled cheese croutons

Tomato Garlic Soup with Grilled Cheese Croutons

A childhood favorite combination – now with a little sophistication. The perfect kind of comfort food together in one bowl of soup. Redesigned with a lingering mellow garlic essence.

The Ultimate Chicken Stew with Fall Vegetables, Apple Brandy and Tarragon, Gluten Free

Fall Chicken Cacciatore

The Ultimate Chicken Stew with Fall Vegetables, Apple Brandy and Tarragon. Perfect for a Rosh Hashanah Holiday Meal – and Reheats Well! Gluten- free. 

This easy to prepare fall dessert is bursting with harvest flavors: fruit is blanketed with a crisp cinnamon, pecan and oat layer. Vegan, gluten-free and irresistible!

Vegan Apple Raspberry Crisp

This easy to prepare fall dessert is bursting with harvest flavors: fruit is blanketed with a crisp cinnamon, pecan and oat layer. Vegan, gluten-free and irresistible!

Crispy Fish, marinated in spiked buttermilk, coated with organic cornmeal is pan fried and served with a delicious Succotash

Cornmeal Crusted Fish Fingers

Crispy Fish, marinated in spiked buttermilk, coated with organic cornmeal is pan fried and served with a delicious Succotash and Modern Creole Tartar Sauce (see recipes)

Skillet Succotash with fresh corn, lima beans, butter beans, (optional) multi-colored zucchini, caramelized shallots and a touch of jalapeño.

Karen’s Skillet Succotash

Succotash is a simple corn and beans sauté. A traditional dish of many Thanksgiving celebrations in New England – first developed by the Narraganset Indians in Rhode Island. Today, many chefs add ingredients that are local to them, or that complement the mix. 

butternut squash and apple cubes laced with onion, ginger, hot chiles and fresh apple juice.

Butternut Squash & Apple Jelly

I have created this jelly with butternut squash and apple cubes laced with onion, ginger, hot chiles and fresh apple juice. It compliments my Spiced Grilled Chicken Open-Faced Sandwich Topped with Gruyere Fondue perfectly. Not too sweet, not too hot. It lasts a while in a clean glass jar in the refrigerator, or use a […]

The easy dough yields 4, 9" pizzas. follow the instructions and get started making pizza in your home.

Karen’s Perfect Pizza Dough

An easy dough to make, follow the instructions and get started making pizza in your home ~ even on a weeknight. It’s creative and fun !

Made from garden-ripe tomatoes, no cooking required. "Raw sauce" combines garden fresh tomatoes and seasonings in a blender

Garden Tomato Raw Sauce

Made from garden-ripe tomatoes, no cooking required. A fresh tasting sauce for pizza.

Grilled Pizza - Hot off the grill, delicious, crispy and smokey pizza – restaurant quality at home!

Grilled Pizza with Raw Garden Tomato Sauce

Beet, Tomato and Radish Salad ~ Beet Green Vinaigrette

A summer bonanza of colors and flavors! Use the beet greens to make an earthy and delicious vinaigrette

Steamed Spiralized Zucchini topped with a Pungent Sun Dried Pesto with Basil Leaves and Pine Nuts – A healthy low-carb delicious dish

Zucchini Noodles with Sun Dried Tomato Pesto

Steamed Spiralized Zucchini topped with a Pungent Sun Dried Pesto with Basil Leaves and Pine Nuts – A healthy low-carb delicious dish 

This wonderfully aromatic chicken is big on flavor – make my Peruvian Spice Blend for an authentic spit-roasted chicken with a tender flesh and crispy skin

Peruvian Grilled Chicken

This wonderfully aromatic chicken is big on flavor – make my Peruvian Spice Blend for an authentic spit-roasted chicken with a tender flesh and crispy skin. Smoky, Salty, Tangy and juicy to the bone!

Karen's Peruvian Spice Blend

Karen’s Peruvian Spice Blend

A versatile blend which adds a depth of flavor to vegetables – fantastic rub for poultry and beyond! My South American inspired seasoning blend features the Peruvian chile, Aji Amarillo. The lemony, fruity flavor of this medium spicy chile combines well with the subtle tartness of the lemon rind. Other seasonings include cumin, annatto, garlic, oregano, smoked paprika, […]

Ratatouille in Zucchini Cups with Herbal – Garlicky Crumbs

Ratatouille – Summer’s Classic Vegetable Stew

Fall in love with this Provencal Vegetable Stew with bright colors and bold, mellow flavors. A wonderful vegetable stew celebrating summer’s splendor. A plethora of eggplant, zucchini and tomatoes simmered with herbs and spices.

Grilled Chicken and Corn Lettuce Wraps / Satay Sauce / Cucumber Salsa

Summertime is all about light, fresh meals, and these chicken and corn lettuce wraps fit the bill exactly. Loaded with lush flavors and textures – the perfect recipe to master… and enjoy!

Karen's Key Lime Frozen Yogurt

Karen’s Key Lime Frozen Yogurt

A light and tasty frozen yogurt with a creamy texture and a fresh, zesty flavor.  Make yourself a heavenly frozen yogurt without colorings, artificial flavorings or corn syrup.  Simple ingredients… simply delicious!

Burrata and Summer Tomato Parfaits

Burrata and Summer Tomato Parfaits

Rich, buttery, creamy Burrata Cheese is sliced and layered with summer Cherry Tomatoes, Pesto Vinaigrette and Basil Leaves. Simply layer in a stylish glass – and lavish the bright flavors

Brown Sugar Shortcakes – Gluten Free

You’ll love these tasty shortcakes ~ they are quick and easy to make! Shortcakes being folded into Karen’s Strawberry Frozen Yogurt

Finally a perfectly delicious soft gluten free sugar cookie that tastes just like the real thing!

Gluten Free Sugar Cookies

Finally a perfectly delicious soft gluten free sugar cookie that tastes just like the real thing! Enjoy these cookies with or without a sprinkling of sugar on top (see recipe.) Or – crumble them into 1/2″ pieces and fold into ice cream or frozen yogurt right out of the machine.

Beet and Chickpea Cakes with Mint and Lemon Zest

Here’s a updated savory vegetarian chickpea cake. Perfect as a meal, or the ultimate appetizer.  

Spinach & Frisee Salad with French Baguette topped with Goat Cheese and Strawberry Swirl

Spinach & Frisee Salad with French Baguette topped with Goat Cheese and Strawberry Swirl

Strawberry Vinaigrette

A zesty dressing, not too sweet, with a kick of garlic and chipotle

30 Minute Strawberry Jam (no pectin)

  Making  jam is fun, has less sugar and no preservatives – with true fruit flavor. See recipes using strawberry jam too!

Grilled Sugar Snap Peas & Radishes

Turn the grill on high – add some market-fresh veggies and your new favorite side dish or summer salad awaits!  

Yogurt-Tahini Dressing

A lovely piquant dressing, creamy and flavorful, and light in calories.

Rhubarb Tart ~ Shortbread Cookie Crust

Rhubarb Tart ~ Shortbread Cookie Crust

As summer fruits are still ripening, taste the marvelous, special flavor of Rhubarb in this easy to make (promise!) fruit tart

Shortbread Cookie Crust

Potato Salad with Artichokes – Lemon Thyme Dressing

Potato Salad with Artichokes – Lemon Thyme Dressing

A light and zesty potato salad perfect to serve outdoors with your favorite Bar-B-Que favorites. A quick and easy recipe… use just one bowl!

Grilled Halibut with Fresh Blueberry Salsa

Liven up Simple Grilled Fish with a snappy, slightly spicy, a touch sweet, Blueberry Salsa. Perfect for a lovely weeknight dinner, lavish lunch or for company. 

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