Tuesday, October 29, 2024

Pimento Cheese and Bacon Pizza



Indulge in the Southern-inspired flavors of pimento cheese and crispy bacon on a homemade pizza crust. This unique and savory pizza is sure to satisfy your cravings!

Ingredients:

  • 1 pizza dough store-bought or homemade
  • 1/2 cup pimento cheese spread
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup cooked bacon bits
  • 1/4 cup sliced green onions
  • 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 475F 245C and place a pizza stone or baking sheet in the oven while it heats up

Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness

Transfer the rolled-out dough onto a piece of parchment paper for easy transfer to the hot pizza stone or baking sheet

Spread the pimento cheese evenly over the pizza dough, leaving a small border around the edges for the crust

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the pimento cheese layer

Evenly distribute the cooked bacon bits, sliced green onions, and diced red bell pepper on top of the cheese

Sprinkle the garlic powder, crushed red pepper flakes if using, and freshly ground black pepper over the toppings

Carefully transfer the parchment paper with the pizza onto the hot pizza stone or baking sheet in the preheated oven

Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned

Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a minute before slicing

Serve hot, and enjoy your delicious Pimento Cheese and Bacon Pizza!


Sunday, October 27, 2024

Southwestern Baked Hummus Dip



This Southwestern Baked Hummus Dip is a delicious twist on traditional hummus, loaded with southwestern flavors and baked until cheesy and bubbly. It's the perfect vegetarian appetizer for your next gathering!

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1/4 cup tahini
  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper adjust to taste
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup diced red bell pepper
  • 1 cup diced red onion
  • 1 cup frozen corn, thawed
  • 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
  • Sliced jalapeos optional, for extra heat

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 350F 175C

In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper

Blend until smooth and creamy

Spread the hummus mixture evenly into a baking dish

Top the hummus with diced red bell pepper, red onion, thawed corn, and black beans

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the vegetables

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the dip is heated through, and the cheese is melted and bubbly

Remove from the oven, garnish with chopped cilantro and sliced jalapeos if desired

Serve hot with tortilla chips, pita bread, or fresh veggies for dipping


Thursday, October 24, 2024

Green Power Smoothie



Start your day off right with this healthy and energizing Green Power Smoothie. There are lots of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants in spinach, pineapple, and banana. This smoothie is a great way to stay healthy and get more energy.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
  • 1/2 cup frozen pineapple chunks
  • 1/2 banana
  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1/2 cup almond milk
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1/2 teaspoon chia seeds
  • 1/2 teaspoon spirulina powder optional
  • Ice cubes optional

Instructions:

Place fresh spinach leaves, frozen pineapple chunks, banana, Greek yogurt, almond milk, honey, and optional spirulina powder in a BlendTec blender

If desired, add a handful of ice cubes for extra chilliness

Blend on high speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy

This should take about 1-2 minutes

Pour the green power smoothie into a glass and sprinkle chia seeds on top for added texture and nutrition

Enjoy your healthy and delicious Green Power Smoothie!


Tuesday, October 22, 2024

Keto Crepes



These Keto crepes are a delicious low-carb alternative to traditional crepes. They are easy to make and perfect for a keto-friendly breakfast or dessert.

Ingredients:

  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 oz cream cheese
  • 1 tsp almond flour
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 tsp stevia or erythritol optional
  • Pinch of salt
  • Cooking spray or butter for the pan

Instructions:

In a blender, combine eggs, cream cheese, almond flour, vanilla extract, sweetener if using, and a pinch of salt

Blend until the batter is smooth and well combined

Heat a non-stick skillet or crepe pan over medium-low heat and lightly grease it with cooking spray or butter

Pour a small amount of the batter into the pan, swirling it around to evenly coat the bottom

Cook for about 1-2 minutes until the edges start to lift and the crepe is lightly browned on the bottom

Carefully flip the crepe and cook for another 1-2 minutes on the other side

Repeat the process with the remaining batter, adding a little more cooking spray or butter to the pan as needed

Serve your Keto crepes with your favorite low-carb toppings such as berries, whipped cream, or sugar-free syrup

Enjoy!


Saturday, October 19, 2024

Smoked Beef Tenderloin



Savor the deliciously tender and smoky flavor of a perfectly smoked beef tenderloin. This recipe produces a delicious dish that's ideal for special occasions by combining a flavorful marinade with the slow, low heat of the smoker.

Ingredients:

  • 1 whole beef tenderloin about 4-5 lbs
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons coarse salt
  • 2 tablespoons black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon dried thyme
  • Wood chips for smoking hickory or mesquite
  • Water for soaking wood chips

Instructions:

Trim the beef tenderloin of any extra fat and silver skin

Make a marinade in a bowl by combining olive oil, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, onion powder, and dried thyme

Cover all sides of the beef tenderloin with an even layer of marinade

For optimal flavor absorption, let it marinate in the fridge for at least two hours or overnight

Set the smoker's temperature to 225F 107C and let the wood chips steep in water for approximately half an hour

A meat thermometer should be inserted into the thickest portion of the marinated beef tenderloin before placing it on the smoker grates

If using a charcoal smoker, add soaked wood chips straight onto the hot coals or into the smoker box

For medium-rare, smoke-grill the beef tenderloin until the internal temperature reaches 135F 57C, or to your preferred doneness

When finished, take it out of the smoker and give it ten to fifteen minutes to rest before slicing

Enjoy the rich, smoky flavor of the smoked beef tenderloin as it is sliced and served


Thursday, October 17, 2024

Keto Mexican Pork Carnitas



This Keto-friendly recipe delivers the bold flavors of traditional Mexican pork carnitas without the carbs. Perfect for a low-carb diet, it's tender, juicy, and packed with delicious spices.

Ingredients:

  • 3 lbs pork shoulder, diced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/4 cup lime juice
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
  • 1/4 cup diced onions optional, for garnish
  • Lettuce leaves for serving

Instructions:

Put cumin, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl

Mix them all together

Cover the cut pork shoulder with the spice mix

Put the Instant Pot in saut mode, add the olive oil, and brown the pork all over

Put chopped cilantro, lime juice, and chicken broth in the Instant Pot

Set the Instant Pot to Manual mode and high pressure for 45 minutes

Then, close the lid

Let the pressure naturally drop for 10 minutes after the cooking is done, then quickly drop any remaining pressure

Take the pork out of the Instant Pot and use two forks to shred it

You can put the shredded pork on lettuce leaves and top them with diced onions if you want


Tuesday, October 15, 2024

Crispy Kale Grilled Cheese with Fried Eggs



Between two pieces of perfectly grilled bread, this sandwich has kale that is crispy, melted cheese that melts in your mouth, and fried eggs that make it taste rich.

Ingredients:

  • 2 slices bread
  • 2 slices cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup kale leaves, washed and dried
  • 2 eggs
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Place the pan on medium heat

Put the kale leaves in the pan and cook them for three to four minutes on each side until they are crispy

Take it out of the pan and set it aside

Melt one tablespoon of butter in the same pan

Put one slice of bread in the pan and add a slice of cheddar cheese

Then add some crispy kale leaves and the other slice of cheddar cheese on top

Add the second piece of bread on top

About 3 to 4 minutes on each side, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese melts

Take it out of the pan and set it aside

Melt the rest of the butter in the same pan

Put the eggs in the pan and cook them until they're done the way you like them

Add salt and pepper to taste

On top of the grilled cheese sandwich, put the fried eggs

Serve right away


Thursday, October 10, 2024

Sugar-Free Cheesecake Brownie



Indulge in the rich flavors of a chocolate brownie with a layer of creamy cheesecake, and don't feel bad about it because there is no added sugar or gluten. If you want to satisfy your sweet tooth while sticking to your diet plans, this low-carb treat is a great choice.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup almond flour
  • 1/2 cup cocoa powder
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar substitute e
  • g
  • , erythritol, stevia
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup melted butter
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar substitute e
  • g
  • , erythritol, stevia
  • 1 large egg yolk

Instructions:

Warm the oven up to 350F 175C and grease an 8x8-inch baking dish

Mix cocoa powder, salt, almond flour, and sugar substitute in a bowl

Melt the butter and add it to the dry ingredients

Then add the eggs and vanilla extract and mix well

Spread half of the brownie batter out evenly in the baking dish that has been prepared

Beat cream cheese until it's smooth in a different bowl

Mix the egg yolk and sugar substitute into the cream cheese until it's smooth

Place the brownie batter in a baking dish and cover it with the cream cheese mixture

Add spoonfuls of the rest of the brownie batter on top of the cream cheese layer

Cut the brownie and cream cheese layers together with a knife

Place in an oven that has already been heated and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the edges are set and the middle is still a little wobbly

Let the brownies cool all the way down before you cut them into squares

Serve and have fun!


Tuesday, October 8, 2024

Balsamic Chicken Protein Bowl



Balsamic chicken on the grill is served over quinoa with mixed vegetables and avocado, and a balsamic glaze is drizzled over the whole thing.

Ingredients:

  • 2 chicken breasts
  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups cooked quinoa
  • 2 cups mixed vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

Olive oil, garlic that has been minced, salt, and pepper should all be mixed together in a bowl

Put the chicken breasts in the sauce and cover for at least 30 minutes

Set a grill pan on medium-high heat

The chicken breasts should be cooked all the way through after 6 to 8 minutes on each side

In the meantime, follow the directions on the package to cook the quinoa and chop the mixed vegetables

Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after it's done cooking before cutting it up

To put the bowls together, divide the cooked quinoa between two bowls

Add avocado slices, mixed vegetables, and thin slices of chicken on top

Add the balsamic glaze to the bowls and decorate with fresh parsley

Serve right away and enjoy!


Sunday, October 6, 2024

Sauternes Wine and Saffron Jam with Edible Gold Flakes



These opulent Sauternes wine and saffron jam, garnished with edible gold flakes, will elevate your culinary experience. Sweet Sauternes wine and aromatic saffron combine to create a flavor profile that is both delightful and sophisticated. Perfect as a unique gift or for special occasions.

Ingredients:

  • 500ml Sauternes wine
  • 300g granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon saffron threads
  • 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 1/4 teaspoon edible gold flakes

Instructions:

In a saucepan, combine the Sauternes wine and saffron threads

Let it steep for 30 minutes to infuse the flavors

After steeping, add the granulated sugar and lemon juice to the saucepan

Place the saucepan over low heat and stir until the sugar has completely dissolved

Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a boil

Once it boils, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, or until the jam thickens and reaches the desired consistency

Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool slightly

While the jam is still warm, stir in the edible gold flakes, distributing them evenly

Pour the jam into sterilized jars and seal them tightly

Allow the jam to cool to room temperature before storing it in the refrigerator

Serve this exquisite Sauternes wine and saffron jam with edible gold flakes on toast, crackers, or as a gourmet condiment


Thursday, October 3, 2024

Meyer Lemon Madeleines - Heather's French Press



Delicate and citrusy, Meyer Lemon Madeleines from Heather's French Press are a delightful treat that pairs perfectly with a cup of tea or coffee. These buttery, shell-shaped cookies are infused with the bright flavor of Meyer lemons, making them a refreshing choice for any occasion.

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
  • 2/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • Zest of 2 Meyer lemons
  • Pinch of salt
  • Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 350F 175C

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until well combined

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition

Stir in the vanilla extract

In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, lemon zest, and salt

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the batter for at least 30 minutes

Grease and flour your madeleine molds

Spoon the chilled batter into the molds, filling each about 3/4 full

Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden and the madeleines spring back when lightly pressed

Remove from the oven and let the madeleines cool in the molds for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely

Dust the cooled madeleines with powdered sugar before serving


Chocolate Chip Muffins

You can eat these tasty Chocolate Chip Muffins at any time of the day. They're moist and ...