Author: Liam

Broccoli cheese patties are a fantastic way to enjoy your vegetables, turning the humble broccoli into something special with the addition of cheeses, breadcrumbs, and spices. These patties are perfect as a side dish, a vegetarian main, or even as a snack. Here’s how to make them:

Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon butter: For sautéing the garlic and onion, adding a rich flavor.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a punch of flavor.
• 1/2 onion, chopped: Provides a sweet, aromatic base.
• 1 (12 ounce) bag frozen broccoli, defrosted: The star of the dish, packed with nutrients and flavor.
• 3/4 cup breadcrumbs: Helps bind the patties together and adds texture.
• 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese: Adds a creamy, tangy flavor.
• 1/3 cup parmesan cheese: Brings a salty, nutty taste to the patties.
• 2 eggs, beaten: Acts as a binder for the patties.
• Salt and pepper: To taste, for seasoning.
• 1 teaspoon vegetable oil: For frying the patties, giving them a golden and crispy exterior.

Instructions:

1. Prep the Broccoli:
   • Make sure the frozen broccoli is completely defrosted. Drain any excess water and chop into small pieces. For a finer texture, you can pulse the broccoli in a food processor.
2. Sauté Aromatics:
   • In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, sautéing until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool.
3. Mix the Patty Ingredients:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, breadcrumbs, sharp cheddar cheese, parmesan cheese, and the cooled garlic and onion mixture. Add the beaten eggs, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. If the mixture feels too wet, add a little more breadcrumbs until you can easily form patties.
4. Form Patties:
   • Using your hands, form the mixture into patties. Depending on your preferred size, this recipe should make about 8-12 patties.
5. Cook Patties:
   • Heat the vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. In batches, fry the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy. Ensure not to overcrowd the pan to allow for even cooking.
6. Serve:
   • Serve the broccoli cheese patties hot, with your choice of dipping sauce or as a side to your main meal.

Tips:

• Serving Suggestions: These patties pair beautifully with a tangy yogurt dip, marinara sauce, or as a complement to a light salad.
• Storage: Leftover patties can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or on the stove for the best texture.
• Freezing: You can also freeze the formed, uncooked patties between layers of parchment paper for later use. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking as directed.

Enjoy your Broccoli Cheese Patties, a delicious and nutritious addition to any meal that even the pickiest eaters will love!

These Apple Cider Glazed Chicken Thighs are a perfect blend of savory flavors with a hint of sweetness from the apple cider. The dish is infused with aromatic spices, making it a comforting and delicious meal. Here’s a detailed recipe to guide you through creating this mouthwatering dish.

Ingredients:

• Olive Oil: A few tablespoons for cooking. Opt for a light olive oil that withstands high heat well.
• 1.5 pounds Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: This typically amounts to about 6 chicken thighs.
• Dried Thyme or Rosemary: About 1 teaspoon, depending on your preference. Both herbs add a nice, earthy flavor to the chicken.
• Onion Powder: 1 teaspoon, for a concentrated burst of onion flavor.
• Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon, to complement the onion powder and add depth.
• Paprika: 1 teaspoon. Feel free to use mild, hot, or smoked paprika based on your taste.
• Salt and Pepper: Add salt and pepper according to your taste preferences, ensuring the chicken is adequately seasoned.

Instructions:

1. Preparation:
   • Begin by using paper towels to pat the chicken thighs dry. This aids in achieving a desirable sear.
   • Season the chicken thighs on both sides with salt, pepper, dried thyme or rosemary, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Ensure that the seasoning is evenly spread across the chicken pieces.
2. Cook the Chicken:
   • Heat a few tablespoons of light olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil reaches the desired temperature, carefully add the chicken thighs to the pan.
   • Cook the chicken for approximately 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they attain a golden-brown crust and are thoroughly cooked. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
3. Apple Cider Glaze (Optional Step for Enhanced Flavor):
   • While the chicken is cooking, you can prepare a simple apple cider glaze by reducing apple cider in a separate saucepan over medium heat, adding a bit of honey or sugar to sweeten it slightly. Cook until the mixture thickens to a glaze consistency.
   • Once the chicken is cooked, brush the apple cider glaze over each thigh, letting it caramelize for a minute or two on each side.
4. Serve:
   • Once the chicken thighs are fully cooked and glazed, remove them from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes.
   • Serve the chicken thighs hot, optionally garnished with fresh herbs for added flavor and presentation. They pair wonderfully with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or your favorite side dish.

Tips:

• For the Glaze: Adjust the sweetness of the apple cider glaze according to your preference. Adding a splash of vinegar can introduce a nice tang, balancing the sweetness.
• Serving Suggestion: These chicken thighs go great with a side of mashed potatoes, rice, or a light salad to make a complete meal.
• Storage: Leftover chicken thighs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to retain the moisture.

Enjoy your delicious Apple Cider Glazed Chicken Thighs, a dish that promises a delightful mix of flavors and textures that are sure to impress!

This Cranberry Pecan Pumpkin Bread is a moist, flavorful loaf that embodies the essence of fall. It combines the classic spices of pumpkin pie with the sweetness of cranberries and the crunch of toasted pecans for a delightful treat. Whether you’re enjoying a slice for breakfast, as a snack, or as a dessert, this bread is sure to bring warmth and comfort. Here’s how to make it.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure to the bread.
• 1 tsp salt: Enhances the flavors.
• 1 tsp baking powder & 1 tsp baking soda: Leavening agents that help the bread rise.
• 4 tsp pumpkin pie spice: Adds the quintessential fall flavor.
• 2 cups canned pumpkin: Adds moisture and a rich pumpkin taste. Ensure it’s not pumpkin pie filling, which is sweetened and spiced.
• 2/3 cup brown sugar: Adds moisture and a deep, caramel-like sweetness.
• 2/3 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the bread.
• 1 cup applesauce OR canola oil: Applesauce for a healthier, lower-fat option, or canola oil for richness.
• 3 eggs, room temperature: Bind the ingredients together.
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor.
• 1 cup dried cranberries: Adds a tart, fruity sweetness.
• 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted: Provides a nutty flavor and crunchy texture.

Instructions:

1. Prep Work:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9×5 inch loaf pans, or line them with parchment paper.
2. Dry Ingredients:
   • In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, baking powder, baking soda, and pumpkin pie spice. Set aside.
3. Wet Ingredients:
   • In a separate bowl, mix the canned pumpkin, brown sugar, granulated sugar, applesauce (or canola oil), eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Combine and Fold:
   • Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring just until combined and making sure not to overmix.
   • Gently fold in the dried cranberries and toasted pecans.
5. Bake:
   • Divide the batter evenly between the prepared loaf pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula.
   • Bake for 60-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaves comes out clean.
6. Cool:
   • Let the bread cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips:

• Toasting Pecans: Spread the pecans on a baking sheet and toast in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant. This enhances their flavor.
• Serving Suggestion: This bread is delicious on its own but can also be served with a spread of cream cheese or a drizzle of honey for extra indulgence.
• Storage: Wrap the cooled bread in plastic wrap and store at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

Enjoy your homemade Cranberry Pecan Pumpkin Bread, a treat that’s sure to capture the heart of anyone who tries it with its perfect blend of fall flavors!

These no-bake pistachio brownies are a delightful treat for anyone looking for a healthier and gluten-free option that doesn’t compromise on taste. With a rich cocoa base, a creamy pistachio center, and a generous amount of pistachios for crunch, they’re sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Here’s how to whip up these decadent treats.

Ingredients:

For the Base:

• 100g (3.5 oz) oat flour: You can make this by blending plain oats into a fine flour. Use gluten-free oats if necessary.
• 4 tbsp cocoa powder: For that rich chocolate flavor.
• Pinch of salt: Enhances the flavors.
• 4 tbsp pistachio butter: Provides a unique, nutty taste and creamy texture.
• 3 tbsp coconut oil, melted: Helps solidify the base when chilled.
• 2 tbsp maple syrup: Natural sweetener that binds the ingredients together.

For the Pistachio Centre:

• 100g (3.5 oz) pistachio butter: Acts as the main flavor component of the center layer.
• 2 tbsp coconut oil, melted: Gives the layer a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• 2 tbsp maple syrup: Adds sweetness and helps blend the mixture.
• A pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness.
• 80g (2.8 oz) unsalted pistachios: Adds crunch and intensifies the pistachio flavor.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Base:
   • In a medium bowl, combine the oat flour, cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt.
   • Stir in the pistachio butter, melted coconut oil, and maple syrup until the mixture is well combined and sticks together when pressed.
   • Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a lined 8-inch square baking pan, creating an even layer. Place in the freezer to set while you prepare the pistachio center.
2. Make the Pistachio Centre:
   • In a separate bowl, mix together the pistachio butter, melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
   • Chop the unsalted pistachios roughly and stir them into the pistachio mixture.
   • Remove the base from the freezer and spread the pistachio center mixture over the base, smoothing out the top. Return to the freezer for about 1 hour or until firm.
3. Slice and Serve:
   • Once set, remove the brownie from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes. Then, using a sharp knife, cut into 8 squares.
   • Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

Tips:

• Pistachio Butter: If you can’t find pistachio butter in stores, you can make your own by blending roasted pistachios in a food processor until smooth and creamy.
• Serving Suggestion: These brownies are rich and decadent, so they pair well with a cup of coffee or tea.
• Storage: Keep the brownies refrigerated if you prefer a firmer texture or in the freezer if you like them a bit more solid. Allow to thaw slightly before enjoying if frozen.

Enjoy your delicious no-bake pistachio brownies, a perfect treat for any time you’re craving something sweet, nutty, and chocolaty without the hassle of turning on the oven!

This festive cranberry pistachio cheese log combines the tangy flavor of goat cheese with the creamy texture of cream cheese, sweetened with honey and spiced with a blend of ginger, cinnamon, thyme, and rosemary. Rolled in a crunchy coating of chopped cranberries and pistachios, it’s a visually stunning and delicious appetizer perfect for any gathering. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients:

For the Cranberry Pistachio Coating:

• 1 1/4 cups fresh cranberries: For a tart, fruity coating.
• 1 cup shelled roasted, salted pistachios: Adds a salty crunch and festive color.

For the Cheese Log:

• 7-8 oz. goat cheese: The base of the cheese log, providing a tangy flavor.
• 4 oz. cream cheese, softened: Adds creaminess and helps bind the mixture.
• 2 tablespoons honey: For sweetness and balance.
• 1/4 tsp each ground ginger, ground cinnamon, salt, dried thyme, dried rosemary: A spice blend that adds warmth and earthiness.
• 1/8 teaspoon pepper: For a slight kick.
• 1/2 cup Cranberry Pistachio Coating mixture: To roll the cheese log in, creating a festive exterior.

Garnish:

• Extra honey: For drizzling over the finished cheese log.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Coating:
   • In a food processor, pulse the fresh cranberries and pistachios until finely chopped. Be careful not to over-process; you want some texture for the coating. Set aside 1/2 cup of this mixture for the cheese log, and reserve the rest for rolling.
2. Mix the Cheese:
   • In a medium bowl, combine the goat cheese, cream cheese, honey, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, salt, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined. If using a tub of goat cheese, you might need to work it with a spatula or spoon to create a log shape before adding the spices and honey.
   • Stir in the reserved 1/2 cup of the cranberry-pistachio mixture until evenly distributed throughout the cheese.
3. Form the Cheese Log:
   • Place the cheese mixture on a piece of plastic wrap. Using the wrap as an aid, form the cheese into a log shape. Chill in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes to firm up if needed.
4. Coat the Cheese Log:
   • Spread the remaining cranberry-pistachio mixture on a flat surface like a cutting board or baking sheet. Roll the cheese log in the mixture, pressing lightly to adhere. Ensure the log is evenly coated on all sides.
5. Chill:
   • Wrap the coated cheese log in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour, or until firm. This step helps the flavors meld together.
6. Serve:
   • Before serving, drizzle the cheese log with additional honey for an extra touch of sweetness. Serve with crackers, bread, or sliced apples and pears for a delightful appetizer.

Tips:

• Serving Suggestion: This cheese log pairs beautifully with a variety of crackers, crostini, or even vegetable sticks. Consider serving it as part of a cheese board with other cheeses, fruits, and nuts for a complete appetizer spread.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare this cheese log a day in advance. Keep it wrapped in the refrigerator and add the honey drizzle just before serving.

Enjoy your easy cranberry pistachio cheese log, a show-stopping appetizer that’s as delicious as it is beautiful, perfect for holiday gatherings or any special occasion.

This Mediterranean Orzo Salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion, from picnics to potlucks, or as a delightful side. Bursting with the vibrant flavors of fresh vegetables, olives, and feta cheese, all tossed together with orzo and a zesty lemon-oregano dressing, it’s sure to be a hit. Here’s how to make it.

Ingredients:

• Orzo pasta: The base of the salad, orzo is a small, rice-shaped pasta that’s perfect for salads.
• Red bell pepper: Adds sweetness and a pop of color.
• Cucumber: Provides a crisp, fresh texture.
• Red onion: Adds a touch of pungency and zest.
• Castelvetrano green olives & Kalamata pitted olives: These olives offer a wonderful contrast in flavors, from the buttery Castelvetranos to the briny Kalamatas.
• Baby spinach: Contributes a crisp, mildly earthy taste.
• Feta cheese: Introduces a smooth, zesty component to the salad.
• Canola oil & Olive oil: Used in the dressing, with olive oil for its fruity flavor and canola for its mildness.
• Lemons: Fresh lemon juice will add brightness and acidity to the dressing.
• Kosher salt and black pepper: For seasoning.
• Oregano: Adds a hint of herbal flavor to the dressing, enhancing the Mediterranean vibe.

Instructions:

1. Cook the Orzo:
   • Heat a sizable pot of water with a dash of salt until it reaches a rolling boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions until al dente. After cooking, drain the contents and rinse them under cold water to halt the cooking process. Drizzle with a touch of olive oil to prevent adherence, then let them cool down.
2. Prepare the Vegetables:
   • Dice the red bell pepper, peel and dice the cucumber, finely chop the red onion, and roughly chop both types of olives. If the baby spinach leaves are large, give them a rough chop.
3. Make the Dressing:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together the juice of the lemons (start with the juice of one lemon and adjust to taste), a few tablespoons of olive oil, a splash of canola oil, kosher salt, black pepper, and oregano. Adjust the seasoning and acidity according to your taste.
4. Combine the Salad:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled orzo, diced vegetables, chopped olives, and baby spinach. Sprinkle the feta cheese evenly on the surface.
5. Dress the Salad:
   • Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until everything is well coated. Adjust the seasoning as needed.
6. Chill and Serve:
   • For the best flavor, let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This step facilitates the harmonious blending of flavors.

Tips:

• Serving Suggestions: This salad is versatile and can be served as a side dish or as a light main course, perfect for warm weather meals.
• Variations: Feel free to add other Mediterranean-inspired ingredients such as artichoke hearts, cherry tomatoes, or chickpeas to add variety and texture to the salad.

Enjoy your Mediterranean Orzo Salad, a dish that’s not only visually appealing but also packed with fresh, vibrant flavors that embody the essence of Mediterranean cuisine.

This crustless garden vegetable quiche is a celebration of fresh produce, packed with the flavors of zucchini, spinach, tomatoes, and basil. It’s an easy, wholesome meal that’s both gluten-free and dairy-free, making it perfect for a wide range of dietary needs. Let’s dive into the recipe that beautifully balances simplicity and taste.

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp ghee or avocado oil, divided: Use ghee for a rich flavor, or avocado oil for a completely dairy-free version.
• 2 small zucchinis, sliced into thin rounds: These add moisture and a tender texture to the quiche.
• 1/2 small onion, chopped: For a slight sweetness and depth of flavor.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a punch of flavor.
• 3 cups baby spinach: Introduces a mild, earthy flavor and boosts the nutrient content.
• 1 and 1/4 cup small tomatoes, sliced into thin slices: Brings a juicy, tangy sweetness and vibrant color.
• 1 tbsp fresh basil, minced + extra for garnish: Fresh basil adds a peppery, sweet flavor that complements the vegetables perfectly.
• 8 eggs: The base of the quiche, providing structure and protein.
• 1/4 cup dairy-free milk: Adds moisture to the egg mixture, making it lighter. Any dairy-free milk like almond, oat, or soy will work.
• 1/2 tsp salt: Seasoning to enhance all the flavors in the quiche.
• Fresh ground pepper to taste: Adds a slight heat and complexity.

Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prep:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch pie dish with a bit of the ghee or avocado oil.
2. Cook the Vegetables:
   • Heat 1 tablespoon of ghee or avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the zucchini rounds and sauté until they are just beginning to soften, about 3-4 minutes. Remove and set aside.
   • In the same skillet, add the remaining ghee or oil. Sauté the onion and garlic until translucent and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Add the baby spinach and cook until just wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
3. Assemble the Quiche:
   • Layer the cooked zucchini at the bottom of the prepared pie dish. Spread the onion, garlic, and spinach mixture over the zucchini. Arrange the tomato slices on top and sprinkle with minced basil.
4. Prepare the Egg Mixture:
   • In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, dairy-free milk, salt, and fresh ground pepper. Pour this mixture evenly over the vegetables in the pie dish.
5. Bake:
   • Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the quiche is set and the top is lightly golden.
6. Serve:
   • Let the quiche cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with additional fresh basil before serving.

Tips:

• Variations: Feel free to customize this quiche with any vegetables you have on hand. Mushrooms, bell peppers, or asparagus also work beautifully.
• Make Ahead: This quiche can be prepared in advance and refrigerated. Simply reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to serve.
• Serving Suggestions: While it’s delicious on its own, this quiche pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Enjoy this crustless garden vegetable quiche as a testament to the beauty of simple, fresh ingredients coming together to create a dish that’s both nourishing and flavorful. It’s a versatile recipe that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a light dinner.

Whip up this zesty and spicy cucumber salad that’s perfect as a side dish for any meal. It’s crunchy, flavorful, and has just the right kick to it!

Ingredients:

• 1 English cucumber (or 2 to 3 kirby cucumbers), make sure it’s clean
• 1/4 cup onion, cut into thin slices
• 1 green onion, chopped into small pieces
• 2 cloves of garlic, make them really tiny (minced)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 teaspoons hot pepper flakes (for that spicy kick)
• 2 teaspoons sesame oil
• 2 teaspoons sesame seeds (for a bit of crunch)
• 1 teaspoon sugar (this is up to you, if you like it a bit sweet)

Let’s Make It:

1. Slice the Cucumber:
   • Cut the cucumber into thin slices. If you’re using kirby cucumbers, you can do the same. The thinner, the better for soaking up all the flavors.
2. Mix the Flavors:
   • In a big bowl, mix the thinly sliced onion, chopped green onion, and minced garlic with the cucumber slices.
3. Add the Sauce:
   • Pour the soy sauce over the cucumber mix. Then, sprinkle the hot pepper flakes, sesame oil, and sesame seeds all over. If you’re adding sugar, now’s the time to sprinkle it in.
4. Toss It Together:
   • Gently toss everything together until the cucumber slices are well coated with all the seasonings and sauce. The idea is to get every slice flavored up.
5. Chill and Serve:
   • Let the salad sit for a bit to marinate and soak up all the delicious flavors. You can even put it in the fridge for a few minutes before serving.

Enjoy this zesty cucumber salad as a refreshing side dish to any meal. It’s especially great in the summer or alongside a hearty dish that needs a bit of a fresh, spicy kick!