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  • Feta, Cheddar and Spinach Muffins

    Feta, Cheddar and Spinach Muffins

    INGREDIENTS
    300 g plain flour
    2 1/2 tsp baking powder
    100 g cheddar cheese
    150 g chopped feta
    130 g baby leaf spinach
    1 egg – or 2 Tbls plain yoghurt
    220 ml milk, use skim if you like.
    1 tsp cayenne pepper
    A dash of crushed black pepper
    30 g butter melted or olive oil
    half a red onion, chopped
    Directions:
    1. Preheat oven to 170C, line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
    2. Use a pan to melt the butter and add onion, fry till lightly browned, now add spinach, toss it until the spinach just wilts. Do not overcook.
    3. Mix dry ingredients in a bowl.
    4. Whisk egg and milk in another bowl.
    5. Combine with dry ingredients.
    6. Add spinach and onion mixture.
    7. Half fill muffin cups mixture forming round shapes with spoon or ice cream scoop
    8. Bake for about 30 minutes until done.
    Insert a toothpick into a muffin and it should come out clean.
    Enjoy with butter or serve with soup or stew for today?
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  • Simple and Delicious Potato Croquettes

    Simple and Delicious Potato Croquettes

    Simple and Delicious Potato Croquettes

    Table of Contents

    Ingredients:

      • 3 medium potatoes, peeled and boiled (about 450g)
      • 30g (1 oz) cheese, grated
      • 2 cloves garlic, minced
      • A handful of parsley, finely chopped
      • 5 tablespoons cornstarch
      • Salt and black pepper, to taste
      • 2 eggs, beaten
      • 100g (1 cup) breadcrumbs
      • Vegetable oil, for frying
      • For the sauce:
        • 2 tablespoons yogurt
        • 1 tablespoon mayonnaise

    Directions:

      • Cook the Potatoes: Peel, boil, and mash the potatoes until smooth.
      • Mix the Ingredients: Combine the mashed potatoes with garlic, parsley, cheese, salt, pepper, and cornstarch. Mix until smooth.
      • Shape the Croquettes: Form the mixture into small cylinder or oval shapes.
      • Coat the Croquettes: Dip each croquette into beaten eggs, then coat with breadcrumbs.
      • Fry the Croquettes: Heat oil in a frying pan and fry the croquettes for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
    • Prepare the Sauce: Mix yogurt and mayonnaise for a simple dipping sauce.
    • Serve: Serve the croquettes warm with dipping sauce.

    Serving Suggestions:

      • Serve with the yogurt-mayo dip for a light and tangy contrast.
      • Pair with a side salad or vegetables for a balanced meal.
      • Great as a party snack or appetizer with a variety of dips.
    • Serve with ketchup, spicy mayo, or garlic aioli for added flavor.

    Cooking Tips:

      • Cheese Options: Use cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan for different flavor profiles.
      • Make Ahead: You can shape the croquettes in advance and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before frying.
      • Baking Alternative: For a healthier option, bake the croquettes at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
      • Oil Temperature: Make sure the oil is hot enough for frying; test with a small piece of bread.
    See also  Classic Homemade Bread Recipe

    Nutritional Benefits:

      • Potatoes: Rich in potassium, fiber, and vitamin C, providing energy and aiding digestion.
      • Garlic and Parsley: Contain antioxidants and help boost immune health.
    • Cheese: Adds calcium and protein for bone health and muscle function.
    • Cornstarch: Helps bind the mixture while keeping the croquettes light and crispy.

    Dietary Information:

      • Vegetarian: Suitable for vegetarians.
      • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
      • Dairy-Free Option: Replace cheese with a dairy-free alternative and use plant-based yogurt and mayo for the sauce.

    Nutritional Facts (per croquette):

      • Calories: 150
      • Protein: 4g
      • Carbohydrates: 18g
      • Fat: 7g
      • Fiber: 2g
    • Sugar: 1g

    Storage:

      • Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
    • Freeze uncooked croquettes for up to 3 months and fry directly from frozen.
    • Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.

    Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

      • Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe beginner-friendly.
      • Versatile: Can be served as an appetizer, snack, or side dish.
      • Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by both kids and adults, perfect for gatherings.
    • Customizable: Add your favorite herbs, spices, or cheeses for endless variations.
  • Chinese-Style Beef and Onion Stir-Fry

    Chinese-Style Beef and Onion Stir-Fry

    Ingredients:
    – 1 lb beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced
    – 2 large onions, sliced
    – 3 cloves garlic, minced
    – 2 tablespoons soy sauce
    – 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
    – 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
    – 1 tablespoon cornstarch
    – 1/4 cup beef broth
    – 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
    – 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
    – 1 teaspoon sugar
    – 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
    – Fresh green onions or sesame seeds for garnish
    Method:
    1️⃣ In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sugar, and cornstarch. Add the thinly sliced beef to the marinade, toss to coat, and let it marinate for 15-20 minutes.
    2️⃣ Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add the marinated beef in batches, cooking for 2-3 minutes until browned. Remove the beef and set aside.
    3️⃣ In the same skillet, add the remaining oil. Add the sliced onions and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until they soften and turn golden. Add the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute.
    4️⃣ Return the beef to the skillet with the onions. Add the beef broth and sesame oil if using. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and coat the beef and onions.
    5️⃣ Garnish with fresh green onions or sesame seeds and serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
    Try this flavorful stir-fry a go! It’s a fast recipe that not only delivers on taste but makes weeknight dinners exciting. Enjoy every savory bite!
  • Cheesy Vanilla Cream Delight Recipe

    Cheesy Vanilla Cream Delight Recipe

    Cheesy Vanilla Cream Delight Recipe

    Table of Contents

    Ingredients

     

      • 12 slices Cheese (cheddar or processed cheese)
      • 50 g Powdered sugar
      • 10 g Vanilla sugar

     

    • 5 Eggs
    • 200 ml Heavy cream (33% fat)

    Directions

     

      • Prepare the Egg Mixture:
        • In a large bowl, whisk the eggs with powdered sugar and vanilla sugar until well combined and slightly frothy.
      • Add the Cream:
          • Slowly pour in the heavy cream and continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

         

      • Layer the Cheese:
          • Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
          • Arrange half of the cheese slices at the bottom of the dish in an even layer.

         

      • Pour the Custard:
          • Pour half of the egg and cream mixture over the cheese layer.
          • Add the remaining cheese slices on top and pour the rest of the egg mixture over them.

         

      • Bake:
        • Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the custard is set.

     

    • Cool and Serve:
      • Allow the dish to cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or chilled.

    Serving Suggestions

     

    • Garnish with fresh berries, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or a drizzle of honey.
    • Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.

    Cooking Tips

     

      • For extra flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the custard mixture.
      • Use high-quality cheese for a richer taste.
      • Bake in a water bath for an ultra-creamy texture.

    Nutritional Benefits

      • High in protein from eggs and cheese.
      • Provides calcium and Vitamin D from the cream and cheese.

    Dietary Information

      • Contains dairy and eggs.
      • Not suitable for vegan or lactose-intolerant diets.

    Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, Approximate)

      • Calories: 280
      • Protein: 12 g

     

      • Fat: 20 g
      • Carbohydrates: 10 g
      • Fiber: 0 g

     

    • Sugar: 8 g

    Storage

      • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

     

    • Reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) or serve cold.
  • Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli

    Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli

    Ingredients:
    1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces 1f357
    2 cups broccoli florets 1f966
    1 (9 oz) package cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen) 1f9c0
    3 tbsp butter 1f9c8
    4 cloves garlic, minced 1f9c4
    1 cup heavy cream 1f95b
    1 cup grated Parmesan cheese 1f9c0
    1 tsp Italian seasoning 1f33f
    Salt and pepper to taste 1f9c2
    1/4 cup chopped parsley for garnish 1f33f
    Instructions:
    Cook the Tortellini: Cook the tortellini according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
    Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for about 6-7 minutes, until golden and cooked through. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
    Cook the Broccoli: In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of butter and sauté the broccoli florets for about 3-4 minutes until slightly tender. Remove from the skillet and set aside with the chicken.
    Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the heavy cream and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens.
    Add Cheese: Lower the heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Stir until the sauce is creamy and smooth.
    Combine Everything: Add the cooked tortellini, chicken, and broccoli back into the skillet. Stir everything together to coat with the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. Let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to warm everything through.
    Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve warm and enjoy your creamy, cheesy dish!
    Tips:
    For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a bit of spice!
    You can substitute chicken with shrimp or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
    If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little more cream or even some chicken broth to thin it out.
    Enjoy your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli! ️
  • Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

    Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

    Ingredients

    12 oz spaghetti noodles
    1 24 oz jar marinara or spaghetti sauce
    1 lb lean ground beef or turkey
    1 tsp Italian seasoning
    1 clove garlic minced
    8 oz cream cheese softened and cubed
    1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
    2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

    Directions

    • Preheat oven to 350°F. Cook spaghetti al dente according to package instructions. Drain and return to pot.
    • Add cubed cream cheese to hot spaghetti and toss until fully coated and melted into a creamy sauce.
    • In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown ground beef until cooked through, 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat.
    • Add Italian seasoning and garlic to beef. Cook 1 minute until fragrant.
    • Pour in marinara sauce and simmer 5 minutes.
    • Spread a thin layer of beef marinara sauce in the bottom of a 9×13 baking dish.
    • Top with cream cheese coated spaghetti, then remaining beef marinara sauce.
    • Sprinkle evenly with mozzarella and parmesan cheeses.
    • Bake for 30 minutes until hot and bubbly.
    • Let stand 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!
  • CABBAGE AND EGGS

    CABBAGE AND EGGS

    Ingredients:

    • 1 Tbsp butter or olive oil I like a combination of the two
    • 1 garlic clove minced
    • 1 cup lightly packed cabbage finely shredded
    • 2 eggs lightly beaten
    • salt and pepper to taste

    PREPARATION:

    1. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat.
    2. Add in the butter and/or oil and spread it in the pan.
    3. Add in the garlic and let it become fragrant for 20 seconds or so.
    4. Add in the cabbage and cook, stirring frequently, until it softens, about 3-5 minutes. I like to cook mine until it is beginning to caramelize, which can take a minute or two longer.
    5. Spread the cabbage out in a thin layer.
    6. Pour in the eggs, tilting the pan a bit to spread them out.
    7. Let the eggs cook for about 15-20 seconds and then fold them over gently until they are cooked through.
    8. Remove from heat and serve immediately!
    Enjoy!
  • Delicious Holiday Crescent Ring with Savory or Sweet Fillings

    Delicious Holiday Crescent Ring with Savory or Sweet Fillings

    Ingredients:

     

     

    • 2 cans (8 oz each) refrigerated crescent roll dough
    • 1 package (10 oz) frozen spinach, thawed and drained
    • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
    • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
    • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
    • 1 garlic clove, minced
    • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
    • Salt and pepper, to taste
    • 1 egg, beaten (for brushing)

    Instructions:

    1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
    2. Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, mix spinach, mozzarella, Parmesan, cream cheese, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until combined.
    3. Assemble the Ring: Lay crescent triangles in a circular pattern on the baking sheet, overlapping the wide ends to form a ring, leaving the pointed ends outward. Spoon the filling evenly over the base of the triangles.
    4. Fold and Seal: Fold the pointed ends of the triangles over the filling and tuck under the base to form a ring. Brush with beaten egg.
    5. Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.
    6. Preheat the Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
    7. Prepare the Filling: Spread Nutella evenly over the wide ends of the crescent dough. Sprinkle diced strawberries on top.
    8. Assemble the Ring: Arrange the crescent triangles in a circular pattern on the baking sheet as described above. Fold and seal the triangles over the filling.
    9. Bake: Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown. Let cool slightly, then dust with powdered sugar.
    10. Serve: Slice and serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a festive dessert.

    Why It’s the Crown Jewel

    Eye-Catching Presentation: The golden crescent ring looks stunning on a holiday table.

    Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The savory version satisfies hearty appetites, while the sweet version offers a delightful dessert.

    Disappearing Act: With its irresistible taste, it will vanish before the celebration is over!

  • Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf

    Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf

    A creative twist on a classic dish! Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf combines the iconic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak with the comfort of a meatloaf. This recipe is a game-changer for meatloaf lovers and Philly cheesesteak fans alike!

    Here’s a recipe to make a Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf:

    Ingredients:

    • 1 lb ground beef
    • 1/2 cup chopped onion
    • 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
    • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
    • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
    • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
    • 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
    • 1 tsp dried oregano
    • Salt and pepper to taste
    • 1/4 cup ketchup (optional)

    Instructions:

    1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
    2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, chopped onion, bell pepper, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and oregano. Mix well.
    3. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan or shape into a loaf shape on a baking sheet.
    4. Top with shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
    5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
    6. Sprinkle with parsley and serve with ketchup on the side, if desired.

    This Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf is a creative and delicious twist on a classic meatloaf. The addition of Philly cheesesteak flavors takes it to a whole new level!

  • Grandma’s Oven-Baked Crispy Parmesan Potatoes

    Grandma’s Oven-Baked Crispy Parmesan Potatoes

    Ingredients

    For the Potatoes:

      • 3 large yellow potatoes, peeled and cut into wedges
      • 60 grams Panko breadcrumbs

     

      • 1 teaspoon salt
      • ½ teaspoon black pepper
      • 1 teaspoon paprika

     

      • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
      • 30-40 grams grated Parmesan cheese
      • 50 grams olive oil

     

    Step-by-Step Instructions

    1. Prepare the Potatoes

    1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
    2. Peel the potatoes and cut them into thick wedges. Rinse them under cold water to remove excess starch, then pat them dry with a kitchen towel.

    2. Mix the Coating

      1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the Panko breadcrumbs, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir well to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed.

     

    3. Coat the Potatoes

    1. Drizzle the potato wedges with olive oil, ensuring they are lightly but evenly coated.
    2. Add the potatoes to the breadcrumb mixture, tossing them gently until each wedge is fully coated with the seasoned crumbs.

    4. Arrange and Bake

      1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.

     

    1. Place the coated potato wedges on the sheet in a single layer, ensuring they don’t overlap for even baking.
    2. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, turning them halfway through to ensure both sides become golden and crispy.

    5. Serve

    • Once the potatoes are crispy and golden brown, remove them from the oven. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving. These potatoes pair wonderfully with a side of sour cream, a light salad, or even as a standalone snack.
  • Valerie Bertinelli’s style: Lemon Basil Salmon Rolls

    Valerie Bertinelli’s style: Lemon Basil Salmon Rolls

    Valerie Bertinelli’s style: Lemon Basil Salmon Rolls

     

    Ingredients

    For the Salmon Rolls:

    • – 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each), skin removed
    • – 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
    • – 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
    • – 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
    • – Zest of 1 lemon
    • – 1 tbsp lemon juice
    • – 1 garlic clove, minced
    • – Salt and black pepper, to taste
    • – 1 tbsp olive oil

     

    For the Sauce:

    • – 1/4 cup unsalted butter
    • – Juice of 1 lemon
    • – 1 tbsp honey
    • – 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
    • – 2 tbsp fresh basil, finely chopped

     

    Instructions

    1️⃣ Preheat the Oven:

    Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

     

    2️⃣ Prepare the Filling:  

    In a bowl, mix the chopped basil, cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth.

     

    3️⃣ Assemble the Salmon Rolls: 

    – Lay each salmon fillet flat on a cutting board.

    – Spread a thin layer of the basil-cream cheese mixture over each fillet.

    – Carefully roll up the salmon from one end to the other and secure it with a toothpick or kitchen twine.

     

    4️⃣ Sear the Rolls: 

    – Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat.

    – Sear the salmon rolls for 2 minutes on each side until golden brown.

     

    5️⃣ Bake:

    Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10–12 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

     

    6️⃣ Prepare the Sauce:  

    – In a small saucepan, melt butter over low heat.

    – Stir in lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, and chopped basil. Cook for 2–3 minutes until well combined.

     

    7️⃣ Serve:

    – Remove the toothpicks or twine from the salmon rolls.

    – Drizzle the warm lemon basil sauce over the rolls.

    – Garnish with additional basil leaves and lemon slices.

     

    Pair with: Steamed asparagus, wild rice, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

     

    Enjoy your Lemon Basil Salmon Rolls!

  • Healthy Oatmeal and Walnut Cookies Recipe

    Healthy Oatmeal and Walnut Cookies Recipe

    Ingredients

     

      • Rolled Oats: 2 cups (180 g)
      • Walnuts: 1 cup (120 g), chopped
      • Plum Butter: ½ cup (120 g)

     

      • Apple: 1 medium apple, grated (about 120 g)
      • Egg: 1 large (or flaxseed egg for a vegan option)
      • Baking Powder: 1 teaspoon

     

    • Salt: ¼ teaspoon

    Directions

    Step 1: Mix Ingredients

     

    • In a mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, chopped walnuts, plum butter, grated apple, egg (or flaxseed egg), baking powder, and salt.
    • Mix until a dough forms. If the mixture is too dry, add a tablespoon of water or milk as needed.

    Step 2: Form and Bake the Cookies

     

      • Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
      • Form the dough into small balls, flatten them slightly, and place them on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet.
      • Bake for 25 minutes, or until the cookies are golden brown.

    Step 3: Cool and Serve

    • Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

    Serving Suggestions

     

      • Enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy snack.
      • Pair with a dollop of yogurt for a balanced breakfast.
      • Pack as a wholesome snack for work or school.

    Cooking Tips

      • For a vegan option, make a flaxseed egg by mixing 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
      • Swap walnuts with other nuts like almonds, pecans, or hazelnuts for variety.

     

    • Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor.

    Nutritional Benefits

      • Oats: Rich in fiber, supporting heart health and digestion.

     

    • Walnuts: Provide healthy fats, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids.
    • Apple: Adds natural sweetness and vitamins, reducing the need for added sugar.

    Dietary Information

     

      • Vegetarian-friendly.
      • Can be made vegan by using a flaxseed egg.
      • Dairy-free.

    Nutritional Facts (per cookie, approximate)

      • Calories: 120
      • Protein: 3g

     

      • Fat: 7g
      • Carbohydrates: 12g
      • Fiber: 2g

    Storage

      • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
      • Refrigerate for up to 1 week for extended freshness.

     

    • Freeze for up to 3 months; thaw at room temperature before serving.
  • Broccoli Cheese Balls

    Broccoli Cheese Balls

    Broccoli Cheese Balls

     

    Ingredients:

    • – 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed and finely chopped
    • – 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
    • – 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
    • – 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
    • – 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating)
    • – 1 large egg, beaten
    • – 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
    • – 1/2 teaspoon paprika
    • – Salt and black pepper to taste
    • – Vegetable oil for frying

     

    Directions:

    1. In a large bowl, mix the chopped broccoli, cheddar cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.

    2. Shape the mixture into small balls (about 1-2 inches in diameter). Roll each ball in additional breadcrumbs for an even coating.

    3. Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot over medium heat. Fry the balls in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy (about 2-3 minutes per batch).

    4. Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels.

    5. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce, like ranch or marinara.

     

    Enjoy these gooey, crunchy Broccoli Cheese Balls – a perfect snack or appetizer! ✨

     

    Prep time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4-6 | 220 kcal per serving

  • Delicious Vegetable Soup with Homemade Croutons

    Delicious Vegetable Soup with Homemade Croutons

    Ingredients:

     

      • 2 stalks of celery (about 100g)
      • 1 carrot (about 70g)
      • 2 zucchini (about 250g)

     

      • 1 cup frozen Brussels sprouts (about 150g)
      • 1-inch piece of ginger (about 10g)
      • 1 processed cheese (about 100g)

     

      • 1 tsp salt (5g)
      • ½ tsp black pepper (2g)
      • 3 slices of bread (about 90g)

     

      • 1 tbsp olive oil (15g)
      • 1 tsp red pepper (2g)
      • 1 tsp dried garlic (2g)

     

    • 1 tbsp fresh dill (about 5g)
    • Water (enough to fill the pot)

    Directions:

     

      • Wash and chop the celery, carrot, and zucchini into bite-sized pieces.
      • In a large pot, add the chopped vegetables, frozen Brussels sprouts, ginger, and enough water to cover the vegetables.
      • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

     

      • Add processed cheese, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
      • Continue cooking until the vegetables are tender.
      • Blend the soup until smooth using a hand blender or a regular blender.

     

      • Meanwhile, prepare the croutons: cut the bread into cubes.
      • Heat olive oil in a pan, then toss the bread cubes with salt, red pepper, and dried garlic. Fry until golden brown.
      • Serve the soup hot, topped with the homemade croutons and fresh dill.

    Serving Suggestions:

      1. Serve with a side of fresh salad for a complete meal.
      2. Pair with a slice of whole-grain bread for extra fiber.

     

      1. Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for creaminess.
      2. Top with grated cheese for added flavor.
      3. Serve with a cup of your favorite tea for a warming experience.

    Cooking Tips:

      • Feel free to substitute the processed cheese with a variety of cheeses such as cheddar or gouda for a different flavor.
      • If you like your soup thicker, use less water or add a small amount of potato to the soup.

     

      • For extra flavor, you can sauté the vegetables with garlic before adding water.
      • Adjust the salt and pepper to your taste.
      • Use homemade bread or day-old bread for croutons to reduce waste.

    Nutritional Benefits:

      • This soup is high in fiber from the vegetables, which aids digestion.
      • It contains essential vitamins like vitamin C from the carrots, celery, and Brussels sprouts.

     

    • Ginger provides anti-inflammatory benefits, while dill offers antioxidant properties.
    • The addition of olive oil provides healthy fats.

    Dietary Information:

     

      • Vegetarian
      • Dairy (if using processed cheese)
      • Gluten (if using regular bread)

    Nutritional Facts (Per Serving):

      • Calories: 220 kcal
      • Protein: 7g

     

      • Carbs: 30g
      • Fat: 8g
      • Fiber: 6g

     

    • Sodium: 800mg

    Storage:

      • Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.

     

    • Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
    • For longer storage, freeze the soup (without croutons) for up to 3 months.
  • Maple Roasted Carrots with Whipped Feta, Pistachios, and Pomegranate Seeds

    Maple Roasted Carrots with Whipped Feta, Pistachios, and Pomegranate Seeds

    Maple Roasted Carrots with Whipped Feta, Pistachios, and Pomegranate Seeds

     

    Ingredients

    For the Carrots:

    • 1 lb baby carrots (with tops trimmed)
    • 2 tablespoons olive oil
    • 2 tablespoons maple syrup
    • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
    • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
    • Salt and pepper, to taste

    For the Whipped Feta:

    • 4 oz feta cheese, crumbled
    • 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
    • 1 tablespoon olive oil
    • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
    • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

    For Garnishing:

    • 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds ❤️
    • 1/4 cup pistachios, chopped
    • Fresh parsley or dill, finely chopped
    • A drizzle of olive oil

     

    Instructions

    1️⃣ Roast the Carrots:

    Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).

    In a bowl, toss the baby carrots with olive oil, maple syrup, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

    Spread the carrots in a single layer on a baking sheet.

    Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and caramelized. Turn halfway for even roasting.

     

    2️⃣ Prepare the Whipped Feta:

    In a food processor or blender, combine crumbled feta, Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic powder.

    Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency with a splash of water if needed.

     

    3️⃣ Assemble the Dish:

    Spread the whipped feta in a circular pattern on a serving platter.

    Arrange the roasted carrots over the whipped feta.

    Sprinkle with pomegranate seeds, chopped pistachios, and fresh herbs.

    4️⃣ Finishing Touch:

    Drizzle a bit of olive oil over the top for extra flavor and shine.

     

    Details

    Prep Time: 10 minutes

    Cook Time: 25 minutes

    Total Time: 35 minutes

    Servings: 4

     

    Why You’ll Love It:

    Sweet & Savory: The maple-glazed carrots pair perfectly with the salty whipped feta.

     

    Crunch Factor: Pistachios and pomegranate seeds add a delightful texture.

     

    Festive Look: A vibrant, colorful presentation perfect for the holidays.

    This dish is guaranteed to steal the spotlight on any table! ✨