All posts by Royce Cara Berler

Photos by and property of Royce Cara Berler. May be used with author’s permission.

Grilled Vegetable, Chickpea, and Avocado Salad

0 comments Breakfast, Lunch, Sides

Ingredients:

4 Scallions
2 Medium Yellow Squash sliced
1 Green Bell Pepper Quartered
1 Red Bell Pepper Quartered
1 Cup Tri Color Quinoa
1 15.5 Oz Can of Chickpeas, rinsed and drained
1/4 Cup Chopped Parsley
1 Tbls Extra Virgin Olive Oil (you can use chili oil if you like a little spice)
2 teaspoons lemon zest
1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
1/3 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup crumbled Feta
1 Avocado, diced

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees and place scallions, yellow squash, bell peppers in a rimmed baking sheet and lightly toss with olive oil. Roast vegetables 20 to 30 minutes, depending on if you prefer them more crunchy or well done.
2. Cut the peppers and scallions into bite size pieces and toss with the sliced yellow squash in a bowl.
3. Meanwhile, cook Quinoa according to package directions; add to vegetables. Add chickpeas, parsley, olive oil, lemon zest and juice, salt, pepper. Toss to mix well. Sprinkle with feta and avocado just before serving.
***this can also be enjoyed with 2 fried eggs on top or served with the protein of your choice
Servings: 2

Photos by and property of Royce Cara Berler. May be used with author’s permission.

Spicy Lamb Meatballs with Green Goddess Dip

0 comments Appetizers, Dinner, Lunch , ,

Ingredients:

  • 3/4 cup packed fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves
  • 3/4 cup packed fresh basil leaves
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 medium scallions, chopped
  • 2 drained canned anchovy fillets
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Canola oil, for greasing baking dish
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 2 Tablespoons harissa (such as Mina)
  • 1/2 cup dry breadcrumbs
  • 1 pound ground lamb
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1/3 cup minced shallot
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 2 garlic cloves, finely grated
  • 2 teaspoons Hungarian hot paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon ground fennel

Instructions:

  1. Process parsley, basil, sour cream, mayonnaise, scallions, and anchovies in a food processor until smooth, about 1 minute. Transfer mixture into a medium bowl; add salt and pepper to taste. Cover and refrigerate until chilled, about 1 hour.

  2. Preheat oven to 400°F. Grease a 13- x 9-inch baking dish with canola oil. Whisk together 1/4 cup water and harissa in a medium bowl. Stir in breadcrumbs; let stand 5 minutes. Add lamb, cilantro, shallot, egg, garlic, paprika, cumin, coriander, fennel, and 2 teaspoons salt; stir well to combine. Shape mixture into 24 meatballs. Arrange meatballs in prepared baking dish so they are touching slightly.

  3. Bake in preheated oven until meatballs are browned and a thermometer inserted in thickest portion of meat registers 160°F, 18 to 20 minutes. Transfer to a serving platter. Serve with dip.

Servings: 6-8

Photos by and property of Royce Cara Berler. May be used with author’s permission.

Skillet Chicken with Turmeric and Orange

0 comments Dinner, Gluten Free, Lunch
Inspired by Narcissi Benkabbou of  NYT Cooking

Ingredients:

  • ½ medium onion, diced into ¼-inch pieces
  • 5 Tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 Tablespoon honey
  • 2 teaspoons dried mint
  • 3 garlic cloves, crushed or finely chopped
  • 1 Tablespoon grated orange zest (from about 2 large oranges), plus ¼ cup orange juice
  • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • ¾ teaspoon fine sea salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts

Instructions:

  1. Marinate the chicken: Place the onion, 2 Tablespoons olive oil, honey, dried mint, garlic, orange zest, orange juice, turmeric, salt and black pepper in a large bowl and stir to combine. Add the chicken and turn to coat with the marinade. Cover and leave in the fridge until ready to cook or for up to 12 hours.
  2. When ready to cook, heat the remaining 3 Tablespoons olive oil in a large (12-inch) skillet or frying pan over medium-high and wait for the pan to become very hot. (This ensures a nice sear.)
  3. Add the chicken and the marinade to the pan, and cook until chicken is browned underneath and easily releases from the pan, 5 to 8 minutes. Stir the onions every now and then so that they cook evenly. If the pan looks dry, add a couple of tablespoons of water to the pan to prevent the juices from drying out. Flip the chicken and cook on the other side until the chicken is cooked through, another 5 to 8 minutes. Serve immediately. (I found that this skillet chicken pairs well with a side salad)

Servings:  4

Photos by and property of Royce Cara Berler. May be used with author’s permission.

Bavarian Eggs

0 comments Breakfast, Brunch, Gluten Free

Ingredients:

2 eggs

½ cup raw sauerkraut

Handful of mixed greens

½ avocado, sliced

1 Tbsp. coconut oil

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Heat your coconut oil in a sauté pan over medium-high heat, and cook your eggs in whichever style you prefer. If eggs are pasture raised, keep the yolks just a bit runny for even more nutrient availability. Season with a bit of salt and pepper.
  2. Once eggs are cooked, simply serve with sauerkraut, greens and sliced avocado. Simple and delicious!

Servings: 1

Photos by and property of Royce Cara Berler. May be used with author’s permission.

Vinegar Chicken with Crushed Olive Dressing

0 comments Dinner, Gluten Free

This tangy, turmeric-stained, sheet-pan chicken makes the most of the schmaltzy bits left behind on the pan, which is deglazed with fresh garlic, briny olives and a bit of water. Think pan sauce, but done on a sheet pan.

Ingredients:

  • 3½ pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken parts
  • 1 teaspoon ground tumeric
  • 6 Tablespoons olive oil
  • Kosher salt and black pepper
  • ½ cup white wine vinegar
  • 1 ½ cups green Castelventrano olives, crushed and pitted
  • 2 garlic cloves finely grated
  • 1 cup parsley, tender leaves and stems, chopped

Instructions:

1. Heat oven to 450 degrees. Place chicken on a rimmed baking sheet and toss with turmeric and 2 Tablespoons olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Make sure chicken is skin-side up, then pour vinegar over and around chicken and place in the oven.

2.  Bake chicken, without flipping, until cooked through and deeply browned all over, 25 to 30 minutes.

3.  Meanwhile, combine olives, garlic, parsley, the remaining 4 Tablespoons olive oil and 2 Tablespoons water in a small bowl; season with salt and pepper.

4.  Once chicken is cooked, remove baking sheet from the oven and transfer chicken to a large serving platter, leaving behind any of the juices and bits stuck to the pan.

5.  Make sure the baking sheet is on a sturdy surface (the stovetop, a counter), then pour the olive mixture onto the sheet. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently scrape up all the bits the chicken left behind, letting the olive mixture mingle with the rendered fat and get increasingly saucy. Pour olive mixture over the chicken, then serve.

Serves 6

Photos by and property of Royce Cara Berler. May be used with author’s permission.

Turkey Bolognese with Zucchini “Noodles”

0 comments Dinner, Gluten Free, Lunch

Ingredients:

  • 4 tsp. olive oil
  • ½ pound ground skinless turkey breast
  • ½ tsp. salt
  • 1 carrot, chopped
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 (14 ½ ounce) can diced tomatoes
  • 1 (9 ounce) package vacuum-packed cooked lentils
  • ⅓ cup plus 2 tbsp. water
  • 1 tbsp. sun-dried tomato paste or minced sun-dried tomatoes (not oil packed)
  • 2 tbsp. chopped fresh oregano, plus extra oregano leaves for garnish
  • ¼ tsp. plus ⅛ tsp. black pepper
  • 3 zucchini, cut into thin lengthwise ribbons using vegetable peeler **
  • 4 tbsp. grated Parmesan

** If you’ve got a vegetable spiralizer, use it to prepare the “noodles” instead of a vegetable peeler. 

Instructions:

  1. Heat 2 teaspoons oil in large skillet over medium-high heat. Add turkey and ¼ teaspoon salt and cook, stirring often, until no longer pink, about 3 minutes. Add 1 teaspoon oil, carrot, and onion and cook, stirring often, until carrot and onion are softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
  2. Add tomatoes, lentils, ⅓ cup water, tomato paste, 2 tablespoons oregano, ⅛ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon pepper. Simmer, stirring occasionally, about 3 minutes, adding additional water if needed to prevent sticking.
  3. Meanwhile, combine zucchini and remaining 2 tablespoons water in large microwavable bowl. Cover with wax paper and microwave on High until crisp-tender, about 2 minutes. Drain and transfer to large bowl. Add remaining 1 teaspoon oil, remaining ⅛ teaspoon salt, and remaining ⅛ teaspoon pepper; toss to coat.
  4. Divide zucchini evenly among 4 plates; top evenly with sauce. Sprinkle evenly with Parmesan and garnish with oregano

Serves 4 – gluten free

The Bolognese sauce freezes beautifully, so if you have time, make a double batch for an easy dinner later. 

 

Photos by and property of Royce Cara Berler. May be used with author’s permission.

Portobello Mushroom Slimburger

0 comments Dinner, Lunch

Ingredients:

Patties

  • ¼ lb. lean grass-fed ground beed, bison or organic ground turkey
  • 1 egg
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Mushroom “Bun”

  • 2 large Portobello mushroom
  • 1 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a mixing bowl, place your ground meat, egg, garlic, salt and pepper and mix together thoroughly.
  2. Form one patty and cook either on a grill or in a sauté pan with just a bit of coconut or olive oil.
  3. Cook until done, about 4 minutes on each side.
  4. Next, remove your mushroom stems and wash and dry the mushrooms. Coat them in olive oil, salt and pepper and place it on a heated sauté pan or grill, cooking for about five minutes on each side, or until soft.
  5. Place your patty on top of the mushroom. Add sliced tomato and lettuce if you’d like, and serve.

Serves 1

Photos by and property of Royce Cara Berler. May be used with author’s permission.

Skillet Chicken With Mushrooms and Caramelized Onions

4 comments Dinner, Lunch

Recipe by Yasmin Fahr.

Ingredients:

Yield:4 servings
  • 5 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons plus 2 teaspoons sherry vinegar
  • 2 teaspoons honey
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • ¼ teaspoon red-pepper flakes
  • Kosher salt and black pepper
  • 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 3-inch pieces
  • 2 medium yellow onions, thinly sliced (about 4 cups)
  • ¾ pound cremini mushrooms, stems removed and thinly sliced (about 4 cups)
  • ½ cup fresh flat-leaf parsley or dill leaves and fine stems, roughly chopped
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan or pecorino (optional)
  • Bread or cooked pasta, for serving

Instructions:

Step 1

In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 tablespoons oil, 2 tablespoons vinegar, the honey, mustard, red-pepper flakes and 1 teaspoon salt; whisk until smooth. Pat the chicken dry and season with salt and pepper, then add to the mixture, coating it well. Set aside at room temperature, stirring it once while you make the onions.

Step 2

Heat a 12-inch cast-iron or heavy skillet over medium-high until very hot, 1½ to 2 minutes, then add the onions in an even layer. Season with salt, then cook, mostly undisturbed, for 4 minutes more, stirring every minute or so. Add the mushrooms, season with salt, and stir to combine. (It will look crowded, and that’s OK.) Allow to cook mostly undisturbed until the mushrooms shrink and start to brown, about 4 minutes, stirring every minute or so.

Step 3

Stir in the remaining 3 tablespoons olive oil and allow the onions to cook until they start to color, stirring and lowering the heat as necessary to avoid burning, about 2 minutes. Push the onions and mushrooms to the edges of the skillet, then add the chicken pieces to the center. Pour any remaining marinade (there will be very little) over the onions and mushrooms. Cook undisturbed for 4 to 5 minutes, then combine the chicken and vegetables and cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through, about 10 minutes more. (Reduce the heat to medium if the onions look like they are burning at any point.)

Step 4

Add the remaining 2 teaspoons sherry vinegar, stirring and scraping up anything on the bottom of the skillet. Season to taste with salt.

Step 5

Remove from the heat and top with the parsley and cheese, if using. Serve with bread or pasta.

Photos by and property of Royce Cara Berler. May be used with author’s permission.

The Best Caprese Salad

0 comments Lunch, Sides, Starters, Vegetarian

Recipe by Melissa Clark.

Ingredients:

  • 3 tbsp pine nuts
  • 1/3 cup packed fresh basil leaves, coarsely chopped
  • 1 1/2 tsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 tsp fine sea salt
  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus more as needed
  • 1 whole burrata cheese (usually about 6 oz)
  • 2 large or 4 small ripe peaches, pitted and cut into wedges
  • 1 pound ripe tomatoes, cut into wedges (or use cherry tomatoes, halved or left whole)
  • Flaky sea salt

Instructions:

In a small skillet over medium heat, toast the pine nuts, shaking the skillet occasionally, until they are golden, about 3 to 5 minutes. Pour the pine nuts into a small bowl and set them aside.

In a blender, combine basil, lemon juice, sea salt and olive oil. Puree until a chunky dressing forms (you don’t want this to be perfectly smooth; the irregular texture is nice with the creamy cheese).

Place the burrata in the center of a large platter, and arrange the peaches and tomatoes around it. Spoon the dressing over the cheese and the fruit. Drizzle with additional olive oil, and top with the toasted pine nuts and a sprinkling of flaky sea salt.

Serves 4

Photos by and property of Royce Cara Berler. May be used with author’s permission.

Skillet Chicken With White Beans and Caramelized Lemon

0 comments Dinner, Lunch

Recipe by Alison Roman

Ingredients:

  • 1lemon, thinly sliced, seeds removed
  • 1shallot, peeled and cut into thin wedges
  • Kosher salt and black pepper
  • 2½pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or breasts (about 4 to 6)
  • 1tablespoon canola oil
  • 1(15-ounce) can small white beans (such as Great Northern, navy or cannellini) or chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1bunch kale, ribs removed, leaves torn into large pieces
  • Flaky sea salt
  • Olive oil, for drizzling

Instructions:

Step 1

Toss lemon slices and shallots together in a small bowl and season with salt and pepper; set aside. (This will lightly pickle the shallot and soften the lemon while you cook the chicken.)

Step 2

Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat and add chicken, skin-side down. Using kitchen tongs or a spatula, press the chicken evenly into the skillet so it makes good contact with the hot surface (which will promote browning). Cook, resisting the urge to check too frequently, until the skin is deeply golden brown (think of the color of a well-baked croissant), 5 to 8 minutes, depending on the size of the chicken pieces. At this stage, most of the fat should be rendered and the skin should be crispy. Flip and continue to cook until pieces are cooked through, another 7 to 10 minutes.

Step 3

Using kitchen tongs, transfer chicken to a plate to rest, leaving all the fat behind. Add lemon and shallot to the chicken fat, standing back if you need because it will sizzle. Cook, swirling the skillet, until the lemon has started to caramelize and brown, 3 to 5 minutes. (It’ll smell like a mix of lemonade and caramel.)

Step 4

Add the beans to the skillet and season with salt and pepper. Cook, tossing occasionally, until the beans have started to brown a bit and soak up all of that caramelized lemon chicken fat, 3 to 4 minutes. Working in batches, add kale and toss to wilt, seasoning with salt and pepper as you go.

Step 5

Return the chicken to the skillet, along with any juices that have collected on the plate, and cook for a minute or two, just so everything gets to know each other in there.

Step 6

Divide the chicken, beans and kale between plates, making sure to top each serving with a few lemon slices. Sprinkle with flaky salt and a final few turns of pepper, and drizzle with olive oil.

Yield: 4 servings

Photos by and property of Royce Cara Berler. May be used with author’s permission.

Roasted Broccoli & White Beans

0 comments Dinner, Lunch, Vegetarian

Recipe by Alison Roman.

Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, plus more for pan
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4-5 cups broccoli florets
  • 1 15 oz. can white beans, rinsed and drained
  • a heavy pinch red pepper flakes
  • juice of 1 lemon, plus a few slices to roast
  • kosher salt + fresh cracked pepper
  • freshly grated Parmesan

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 400F.

Drizzle a baking sheet lightly with olive oil, set aside.

Mix olive oil, garlic and red pepper flakes in a bowl. Toss broccoli in garlic oil mixture to coat, followed by white beans (be careful not break up white beans with heavy handling). Place mixture on prepared baking sheet, nestling a few lemon slices in the mix. Season with salt & fresh cracked pepper and roast in oven, tossing occasionally for about 15-20 minutes. When beans and broccoli begin to char, top with a heavy dose of Parmesan cheese, turn the oven to BROIL and cook for 2 minutes, or until cheese is melted and starting to bubble.

Remove from oven, squeeze fresh lemon on top to taste. Serve with grated Parmesan and a poached egg if you fancy.

Serves 2-3

Photos by and property of Royce Cara Berler. May be used with author’s permission.

Harissa Chicken Thighs With Shallots

0 comments Dinner

Chicken thighs, bathed in a broth spike with spicy, earthy harissa, are at the heart of this quick,  flavorful weeknight dinner. Here, the chicken fat is smartly used to  saute shallots until just softened. (they’re finished off with the chicken, melting down the sauce.) If you don’t like spicy, don’t fret: A showering of fresh herbs and a good squeeze of lime nicely cuts the heat.

Ingredients:

Yield: 4 Servings

1½ pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken

Kosher salt and black pepper

2 tablespoons grapeseed or canola oil

4-5 small shallots, ends trimmed, quartered, root to stem, and peeled

2 garlic cloves, finely chopped

3 tablespoons ground cinnamon

1 to 1½ cups chicken stock, plus more as needed

¼ cup roughly chopped cilantro, leaves and tender stems

2 scallions, thinly sliced

1 lime, cut into wedges, for serving

Flaky salt, for serving (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1

Season chicken thighs well with salt and pepper. In a heavy-bottomed skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken thighs skin-side down and cook undisturbed until nicely browned, about 5 to 6 minutes. Flip and brown the other side, about 4 to 5 minutes more. Transfer to a plate and set aside.

Step 2

Pour off all but 2 tablespoons of fat from the pan and return to medium-low heat. Add shallots and cook, stirring often, until they begin to soften, about 2 to 3 minutes. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds more.

Step 3

Stir in harissa and cinnamon, and add back in the chicken and any residual juices. Pour in enough of the stock to come up to the chicken about halfway, and bring to a simmer. Partly cover and allow the chicken to finish cooking through, about 15 minutes more.

Step 4

Toss the chicken in the sauce until it’s nicely coated. Plate and top with cilantro and the scallions. Serve, spooning braising liquid.

Photos by and property of Royce Cara Berler. May be used with author’s permission.

Jalapeño Grilled Pork Chops

0 comments Dinner, Lunch

Recipe by Eric Kim.

Ingredients:

For the Pork Chops

  • 5 large jalapeños, stemmed
  • 5 large garlic cloves, peeled
  • 1 bunch cilantro stems, cut into 1-inch pieces (about 1 packed cup)
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • ½ cup olive oil, plus more for cooking
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt (Diamond Crystal)
  • 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
  • 8 thin-cut, bone-in pork loin chops (½-inch thick)

For the Relish

  • 1 large jalapeño, thinly sliced into rings
  • 1 small red onion, thinly sliced into rings
  • ⅓ cup rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (Diamond Crystal)
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • Cilantro leaves and tender stems, for garnish
  • Cilantro rice or cooked white rice, for serving (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1
Make the pork chops: In a food processor, blitz the jalapeños, garlic, cilantro stems, rice vinegar, olive oil, salt and sugar until smooth. Place the pork chops in a large bowl or resealable container and pour the marinade over them; turn the chops to evenly coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes and up to 24 hours.

Step 2
While the chops marinate, prepare a charcoal grill for direct high-heat cooking, or heat a gas grill to medium-high.

Step 3
Make the relish: In a small bowl, toss the jalapeño, red onion, rice vinegar, salt, sugar and 2 tablespoons water. Set aside to quick-pickle until ready to serve, or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.

Step 4
Carefully grease the grill grate: Use tongs to grip a wadded paper towel dipped in oil and then rub the grates with the oiled towel. With the marinade clinging to them, place the pork chops on the hot greased grate. Grill until the chops are charred at the edges and no longer pink in the middle, 2 to 3 minutes per side. The meat is ready to flip when it releases easily from the grates. (If using a gas grill, close the lid between flips.) Alternatively, cook the chops on the stovetop in batches. Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high. Add enough oil to lightly coat the bottom of the pan, and heat until shimmering. Add the chops, with the marinade clinging to them, to the pan. Sear until browned and caramelized at the edges and no longer pink in the middle, 3 to 4 minutes per side. Discard any remaining marinade.

Step 5
Serve the chops with the relish and cilantro on top. If you’d like, serve rice alongside.

Photos by and property of Royce Cara Berler. May be used with author’s permission.

Skirt Steak With Salsa Verde Salad

0 comments Dinner, Lunch

Recipe by Lidey Heuck.

Ingredients:

1½ lbs skirt steak|
½ cup extra-virgin olive oil
¼ cup red-wine vinegar
¼ cup thinly sliced scallions (about 2)
2 tbsp capers, drained and roughly chopped
1 tbsp minced garlic (about 2 large cloves)
½ tsp kosher salt, plus more to taste
½ tsp black pepper, plus more to taste
2 tsp chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
2 tsp chopped fresh mint
¼ cup toasted pine nuts
2 romaine hearts
½ cup crumbled feta cheese (about 3 oz)

Instructions:

 Step 1

If necessary, cut the steak crosswise into large pieces that will fit into a shallow, nonreactive dish. Transfer the steaks to the dish. In a glass measuring cup or bowl, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, scallions, capers, garlic, ½ teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon pepper. Pour about ⅓ of the dressing (about ⅓ cup) over the steak and turn to coat both sides.

Step 2

Add the parsley and 1 tablespoon mint to the reserved dressing, stir, and set aside until ready to use. Cover and refrigerate the steak for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours. (If marinating the steak overnight, cover and refrigerate the reserved dressing.)

Step 3

In a small sauté pan set over medium heat, toast the pine nuts, tossing often, until golden brown, about 3 minutes. Set aside.

Step 4

Set the grill to medium-high heat, or heat a grill pan on the stovetop over medium-high.Pat the steaks dry with a paper towel and grill for 3 to 5 minutes on each side for medium-rare. Transfer to a plate, sprinkle with salt, and allow to rest for 10 minutes.

Step 5

While the steak rests, cut the romaine hearts lengthwise into quarters. Arrange the romaine hearts in one layer on a large platter, leaving room on one side for the steak.Sprinkle the feta, pine nuts and the remaining 1 tablespoon mint over the romaine. Slice the steak crosswise into 3-inch pieces, then slice against the grain to cut the steak into wide strips. Arrange the sliced steak on the platter, then drizzle the reserved dressing over the romaine and steak. Serve immediately.

Photos by and property of Royce Cara Berler. May be used with author’s permission.

Sweet and Spicy Grilled Vegetables with Burrata

0 comments Dinner, Lunch, Vegetarian

Recipe by Melissa Clark.

Ingredients:

For the Sweet-and-Spicy Sauce:

¼ cup chopped raisins, preferably golden, or dired apricots
⅔ cup white wine vinegar or cider vinegar (or a combination)
2 tbsp honey, plus more to taste
2 tbsp fish sauce or colatura (optional)
¼ tsp red-pepper flakes
Pinch of fine sea salt
Extra-virgin

For the vegetables (use any or all):

Extra-virgin olive oil
2-3 bell peppers, quartered, stems and seeds removed
1-2 zucchini or summer squash, sliced diagonally ½-inch thick
1 small eggplant, sliced diagonally ½-inch thick
2-4 ears yellow corn, shucked
8 oz mushrooms, trimmed and halved or quartered
1 bunch thick asparagus, ends snapped
8 oz cherry tomatoes, preferably sill on the vine

For serving:

2 small burrata or fresh mozzarella balls, or 2 cup fresh ricotta
Flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
Basil or mint leaves, for serving
Crusty bread slices

Instructions:

Step 1

Make the sauce: Put raisins or apricots in a small heatproof bowl. In a small saucepan, combine vinegar, honey, fish sauce or colatura (if using), red-pepper flakes and salt. Bring to a boil, then let simmer until the mixture reduces slightly, about 3 minutes. Immediately pour over the raisins and let cool. Taste and stir in a little more honey if the sauce is too harsh. (Sauce can be made up to 1 week ahead and stored in the refrigerator.)

Step 2

Prepare the vegetables: Oil the grill grate and light the grill. Have a serving platter at the ready.

Step 3

Grill the peppers, zucchini, eggplant and corn directly on the grate, in batches if necessary, and turning them as needed. Move them around the grate so they cook evenly. Cook until they are lightly charred, watching them carefully. 5-12 minutes, depending on the vegetable.

Step 4

To grill the muchrooms and asparagus, place them in a grilling basket if you have one, or put directly on the grill. (Arrange the asparagus perpendicular to the grates so they don’t fall through.) Grill, turning as needed, until charred all over, 6-10 minutes. Grill the cherry tomatoes, using the vine as a handle if possible, for 1-2 minutes, until they start to burst and char slightly. Transfer all the vegetables as they cook directly to the serving platter.

Step 5

Add the cheese to the platter next to the vegetables. Immediately drizzle everything with some of the sauce, stirring it up to get the raisins, and with olive oil. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt and pepper and scatter the herbs generously on top. Serve the extras sauce and bread alongside for making crostini with some of the vegetables and more of the tangy sauce.

Tip

To make this using a broiler, spread the vegetables on a rimmed sheet pan, drizzle with oil and broil until browned on top, then flip and broil until browned on the other side. The timing will depend on the vegetable, so stick with one kind per baking pan. You’ll need to do this in batches. You can also use a grill pan.

Photos by and property of Royce Cara Berler. May be used with author’s permission.

Youvarlakia Avgolemono (Lemony Greek Meatball Soup)

0 comments Dinner, Lunch, Soup

Recipe by Melissa Clark.

Ingredients:

1 lb ground chicken (or ground turkey or beef), very cold

¾ cup chopped fresh dill or parsley, plus more for garnish

½ cup grated yellow onion (from about 1 small onion)

¼ cup grated carrot (from about 1 carrot)

¼ cup uncooked long-grain rice, such as basmati or Carolina, well rinsed and drained

1 garlic clove, finely grated, pushed through a garlic press, or minced

1 tsp fine sea salt, plus more as needed

½ tsp freshly ground black pepper, plus more as needed

½ tsp finely grated lemon zest

6 cups chicken stock

2 large eggs, at room temperature

⅓ cup fresh lemon juice (from about 2 lemons)

Instructions:

Step 1

In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, ¼ cup dill, onion, carrot, rice, garlic, salt, pepper and lemon zest. Gently mix with your hands until well combined.

Step 2

Gently form the mixture into 24 meatballs, each about 1¼ inches in diameter, placing them on a plate or baking pan. Cover and chill for at least 20 minutes or up to 24 hours. This helps the meatballs keep their shape while cooking.

Step 3

In a large pot, bring stock to a boil over high heat. Reduce to medium and use a slotted spoon to carefully add meatballs to the pot. The broth should cover the tops of the meatballs by about ½ inch. If not, add a little water. Simmer gently, adjusting the heat so the broth doesn’t boil, until meatballs are cooked through and rice is tender, 25 to 35 minutes. (Break open a meatball to test it.) Remove pot from heat.

Step 4

In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs and lemon juice until just mixed. Slowly add a ladle of warm broth to the egg-lemon mixture, whisking constantly. Whisk in another two ladles of broth to temper the egg mixture.

Step 5

Slowly drizzle the egg-lemon mixture back into the pot with the meatballs, stirring gently so you don’t break apart the meatballs. Return the pot to medium-low heat until it just starts to simmer. (Wait for a bubble or two to appear, but don’t let the pot boil.) The broth should be silky. Remove from heat, stir in remaining ½ cup of dill. Taste and add salt and pepper, if needed. (It may need quite a bit of salt if you are starting with unsalted broth.) Garnish with nutmeg, if you like, and dill, and serve.

Yield: 4 servings
TIme: 1 hour

Photos by and property of Royce Cara Berler. May be used with author’s permission.

Roasted Salmon with Chickpeas, Zucchini, and Red Pepper

1 comment Dinner, Lunch

This recipe by Weight Watchers is a delicious  low fat and low calorie meal.

Easy and quick to make. Having made this dish numerous times I have adjusted the measurements for the ingredients to suit my taste as well as adding the mushrooms. You should do the same and feel free to use any of your favorite vegetables.

Ingredients:

2 tsp paprika, smoked, sweet variety

2 tsp ground coriander

2 tsp ground cumin

2 tsp kosher salt

1.5 tsp black pepper

2 medium uncooked zucchini, cut into ¾-inch chunks

1 medium sweet red pepper(s), chopped

1 large uncooked red onion(s), thinly sliced

1 8oz package baby bella mushrooms

15½ oz canned chickpeas, rinsed, patted dry

4 tsp, divided Extra virgin olive oil

1.5 pound(s) uncooked skinless wild salmon fillet, cut into 4 equal pieces

½ medium lemon, cut into thin wedges

Instructions:

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 450°F. In a small bowl, mix the paprika, coriander, cumin, salt, and black pepper until well combined.

Step 2

On a large sheet pan (16 by 12 inches), toss the zucchini, bell pepper, onion, and chickpeas. Add 1 tbsp of the oil and 4 tsp of the spice mix. Toss the vegetables and chickpeas again to coat and spread into a single layer. Bake for 20 minutes.

Step 3

Coat the fish with the remaining 1 tsp oil and the remaining spice mix. Remove the pan from the oven. Stir the vegetables, then clear 4 spaces among the vegetables so the fish can sit right on the pan. Arrange the fish on the pan. Continue to bake until the fillets are cooked through, about 10 minutes.

Step 4

Serve with the lemon wedges.

Serving Size: 1 fish fillet and 1 cup vegetable mixture

Photos by and property of Royce Cara Berler. May be used with author’s permission.

Chicken & Rice Soup

0 comments Dinner, Lunch, Soup

This is the perfect time of year for great soup recipes! This chicken and rice soup by Ali Slagle I found in the New York Times cooking app is delicious!

I added some red pepper chili flakes for a great kick! With or without the butter this soup is a perfect meal on a cozy winter night!

Please try it and let me know what you think.

Ingredients:

8 cups chicken broth

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs

4 stalks celery, leaves reserved and stalks thinly sliced

3/4 cup jasmine rice (unrinsed)

Kosher salt

1/2 cup fresh parsley leaves

1 tsp fresh lemon zest plus up to 1/2 cup of lemon juice (from 2 to 3 lemons)

1 small garlic clove

1 tbsp unsalted butter (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1

Ina large Dutch oven or pot, combine the broth, chicken, celery and rice. Season lightly with salt. (Some broths have more salt than others, so start easy.) Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat, then reduce heat and simmer until the chicken is cooked through and the rice starts to break down and lose its shape. 20-30 minutes.

Step 2

Meanwhile, finely chop together the parsley leaves, lemon zest and up to 1/2 cup celery leaves. Transfer to a small bowl, grate the garlic clove into the bowl, season with salt and stir to combine.

Step 3

Using tongs, remove the chicken from the pot and transfer to a medium bowl. Using two forks, shred the chicken into pieces, then stir it back into the soup. Remove from heat, stir in the butter (if using), and season to taste with the salt. Stir in the lemon juice a little at a time until the soup is bright, but still tastes like chicken. (You may not use the full 1/2 cup juice.)

Step 4

Divide the soup among bowls and top with the parsley-lemon mixture. (The soup, minus the lemon juice and parsley mixture, can be refrigerated  for up to 3 days; the rice will absorb liquid as it sits, so add more chicken broth when re-heating. Add the lemon juice and fresh herb garnish just before serving.)

Photos by and property of Royce Cara Berler. May be used with author’s permission.

Baked Spaghetti Squash

0 comments Dinner, Lunch, Vegetarian

Here’s a great dish by chef Ali Slagle I grabbed from the New York Times and whipped up.

Ingredients:

1 large (3- to 4-pound) spaghetti squash, halved lengthwise and seeded

3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

Kosher salt and black pepper

1 cup freshly grated Parmesan

½ cup panko

1 garlic clove, grated

1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves

8 ounces mozzarella, cut into 1/2-inch cubes (optional)

***I personally added tomato sauce and Gardein meatless frozen meatless meatballs

Instructions:

Heat the oven to 450 degrees. Brush the cut side of each squash half with 1 tablespoon olive oil, then season with salt and pepper. Place squash, cut-sides down, on a parchment-lined baking sheet and roast until the squash is tender when poked with a fork, 35 to 40 minutes.

Meanwhile, in a small bowl, stir together the Parmesan, panko, garlic, thyme and the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.

Flip the squash and use a fork to scrape the squash into spaghetti strands. Stir in half the mozzarella, if using, then sprinkle the squash with the remaining mozzarella and the panko mixture. Roast until the top is golden brown and mozzarella has melted, 20 to 25 minutes.

Photos by and property of Royce Cara Berler. May be used with author’s permission.

Chipoltle Lime Chickpea and Avocado Salad

0 comments Dinner, Lunch, Vegetarian , , ,

Here is a great vegetarian salad! Awesome as a main dish. Easy to put together as no cooking is required. This recipe is also great beacuse you can interchange flavors and make it different everytime which as usual I have adjusted to my own taste. I happen to love chickpeas but you can easily interchange the chickpeas for black beans or any other kind of bean you fancy! I am also a huge fan of Mexican Cuisine and this has a really tasty Mexican influence incorporating Queso Fresco, a Mexican curmbling cheese and chipoltle peppers in adobo sauce!

Ingredients:

1 TBSP  Fresh Lime Juice

Canned Chipolte Peppers in Adobo Sauce (use 1 minced pepper per serving)

1 TSP Olive Oil

1 Cup Canned Chickpeas rinsed and drained

1/2 Cup Kumato, Grape or Cherry Tomatoes quartered

1/4 Avocado diced

2 TBSP Cilantro chopped

1 TBSP Red Onion Chopped

1 Cup Mixed Greens

1 OZ Queso Fresco Crumbled

Salt and Pepper to taste

 

Instructions:

Combine lime juice, chipoltle pepper, oil, salt and pepper in a medium bowl. Mix well and then add the chickpeas, tomatoes, avocado, cilantro and onion. Sprinkle Queso Fresco on top and voila!

Enjoy! You will thank me..

Photos by and property of Royce Cara Berler. May be used with author’s permission.

Roasted Greek Style Chicken and Vegetables

0 comments Dinner, Lunch , ,

This is the easiest most delicious recipe of all time. Another one of Weight Watchers greatest hits! Does not matter whether you are following their plan or not, this is so versatile and tasty, everyone will love it! Chicken breasts, artichoke hearts, tomatoes and zucchini seasoned with fresh lemon, oregano, garlic and olive oil and then roasted…what could be bad? You can take it one step further and add things you like such as black olives and feta cheese..I dare you…

I actually altered the seaoning a little to suit my taste and have shared this version directly with you, so dont be afraid to be creative..and please let me know what you think!

Enjoy!

Ingredients:

cooking spray, 2spray(s)
5 tsp, extra virgin, divided
5 medium clove(s), chopped
2 tsp dried oregano
1 1/2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
2tsp lemon zest,  divided
 1⁄2tsp  salt, or to taste
1⁄2tsp freshly ground black pepper, or to taste
1 large zucchini, raw, sliced 1/4-inch thick
2 cup(s) grape tomatoes, halved
14oz can artichoke hearts quartered without oil, drained well
1 lb uncooked boneless skinless chicken breasts

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 450ºF. Coat a large nonstick baking pan with cooking spray.

In a large bowl, combine 4 tsp oil, garlic, oregano, lemon juice, 1 tsp zest, salt, and pepper; add vegetables and toss to coat. Lift vegetables out of bowl with a slotted spoon, leaving some oil mixture in bowl. Place vegetables in an even layer on one side of prepared pan, leaving room for chicken. Add chicken to bowl and turn to coat; place on empty side of pan.

Roast until vegetables are tender and chicken is cooked through, stirring vegetables once, 15-20 minutes. Drizzle vegetables with remaining 1 tsp each oil and zest; toss to coat. Drizzle chicken with any pan juices.

Serving size: 3 oz chicken and 1 c vegetables

NOTES:

Turkey cutlets can be used instead of chicken breasts – just add them to the pan about 5 minutes into the cooking time because they cook more quickly than the vegetable mixture.

Photos by and property of Royce Cara Berler. May be used with author’s permission.

Crispy Falafel

0 comments Brunch, Dinner, Lunch, Snack, Vegan, Vegetarian , ,

These are insane! They are perfect. I did not change anything about the recipe, followed exactly including cooking time. I think they are perfect for sharing a typical Mediterranean meal.  Straight from my favorite cookbook, Jerusalem! I made with the spiced chickpea and vegetable salad and then served all with baba ganoush, hummus and the best tahini dressing!

Ingredients:

1 1/4 cups (250 grams) dried chickpeas

1/2 cup finely chopped onion (about 1/2 onion, or 80 grams)

1 clove garlic, crushed

1 Tablespoon finely chopped flat-leaf parsley (I omitted)

2 Tablespoons finely chopped cilantro

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

1/2 teaspoon ground coriander

1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

3/4 teaspoon salt

3 Tablespoons water

1 1/2 Tablespoons all-purpose flour

about 3 cups (750 mL) flavourless oil, for deep-frying

1/2 teaspoon sesame seeds, for coating

Instructions:

1. The night before, place chickpeas in a large bowl and cover with cold water at least twice their volume. Set aside to soak overnight.

2. The next day, drain the chickpeas well and pour them into a food processor. Add in the onion, garlic, parsley, and cilantro. Blitz the mixture until everything is finely chopped, but not overly mushy or pasty. It should be able to hold itself together.

3. Add in the spices, baking powder, salt, flour, and water. Mix using a wooden spoon until well-blended and smooth. Cover the mixture and leave in the fridge for at least 1 hour. This can be made ahead and saved in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and in the freezer for up to 1 month.

. Fill a deep, heavy-bottomed pan with enough oil to come up to 2-3/4 inches on the side of the pan. Heat the oil up to 350°F (180°C).

5. Meanwhile, with wet hands press 1 Tablespoon of the mixture in the palm of your hand to form a patty or a ball the size of a small walnut. (you can use a wet ice-cream scoop for this)

6. Sprinkle the balls evenly with sesame seed and deep-fry in batches of 4 to 6 balls for 4 minutes, until well-browned and cooked through. Giving the balls the proper time in the oil will ensure they dry out on the inside, preventing them from falling apart.

7. Drain  in a  colander lined with paper-towels and serve immediately while hot. Serve with warm pita bread and tahini dressing.

This is one food that I can say is not great as a leftover. Much better served hot and immediately after being cooked.

Enjoy!

Photos by and property of Royce Cara Berler. May be used with author’s permission.

Kokkari Style Lamb Chops

0 comments Dinner , , ,

These are so delicious you will never cook them any other way! I was in San Francisco many years ago and had dinner at a restaurant called Kokkari, a greek restaurant that I fell in love with. Aside from the atmosphere and decor, the food and the service was phenomenal.

“Upon entering Kokkari, guests experience the old-world charm of a rustic mediterranean country inn” and it only gets better from there. Well they have published a cookbook that really conveys the authentic greek style and way of cooking so I decided to try and have prepared the most mouth watering lamb chops I have ever eaten in my life!

Please try it, you will not be disappointed and you will want to remake this dish often. It is great for a dinner party because it is so impressive when presented, is so simple to make and tastes so delicious!

I can’t wait to hear what you think.

Ingredients:

Serves 5 to 7 people

8 double cut lamb chops or
2  8- rib racks of lamb (about 2 pounds each)
4 teaspoons garlic salt
1 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
4 teaspoons dried oregano, crumbled
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Sea Salt
2 whole lemons
1 lemon sliced thin

Instructions:

First make the dry rub:

In a large bowl mix together the garlic salt, black pepper and the oregano. Coat the lamb chops on all sides with the dry rub and refrigerate for several hours until ready to cook.

When ready place the ribs back into a large bowl and use the 3 tablespoons of oil to coat all of the lamb chops. Once they are coated let stand to bring to room temperature for about 20 to 30 minutes.

In the meantime, preheat the oven to 450F, place lamb chops fat side up on a large iron skillet or two if you don’t have one large enough and cook for 15 minutes and then turn ribs over and cook for another 20 minutes or until lamb chops are still slightly pink inside. Remove from the oven and let stand for 10 minutes.

(place the cast iron skillet in the oven while the oven is preheating so that the skillet itself is nice and hot before adding the chops. This will give them a nice sear before turning them over)

Then you can cut the chops so they are single and place on a serving platter with some of the juice from the skillet. Squeeze the lemon juice over the top before serving and place the lemon slices around the platter as garnish and serve.

Photos by and property of Royce Cara Berler. May be used with author’s permission.

Swordfish and Tomato with Basil Sauce

0 comments Dinner, Vegetarian , , , ,

WOW! This is spectacular and so easy to make, 45 minutes from start to finish. It is another great recipe from The Essential Weight Watchers Cookbook, it is perfect just the way it is, no alterations needed!

 

Ingredients:

Serves 4

4 plum or other small tomatoes, halved
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 1/2 cups lightly packed fresh basil leaves
3 tablespoons chicken broth (for vegetarian use vegetable broth)
3 tablespoons grated Parmesan
1 tablespoon chopped  walnuts
1 garlic clove, chopped
2 teaspoons lemon juice
3 teaspoons olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
4 (5-ounce) swordfish steaks

 

Instructions:

Spray broiler rack with non- stick spray; preheat broiler.

Place all tomatoes on broiler rack and lightly spray with olive oil non-
stick spray. Broil 5 inches from heat until tomatoes are softened, about 8 to 10 minutes.

Meanwhile, to make the sauce, combine basil, broth, Parmesan, walnuts, garlic, lemon juice, 1 teaspoon oil, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper in blender or food processor, and pulse until finely chopped. Set aside.

Heat remaining 2 teaspoons oil in large skillet over medium-high heat. Sprinkle fish with remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt and remaining 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Add fish to skillet and cook, turning once, until fish flakes with a fork, about 8 to 10 minutes.

Divide swordfish and tomatoes evenly among 4 plates and drizzle evenly with sauce.

Enjoy!!

Photos by and property of Royce Cara Berler. May be used with author’s permission.

Creamy Cauliflower Soup With Tahini

0 comments Dinner, Lunch, Soup, Vegan , , ,

I don’t know about you but I love Cauliflower! I also love Tahini and this
combination is beyond delicious! The recipe also calls for crispy cauliflower on top which just puts it over the edge. It is so easy to prepare and another recipe that can be made ahead and used for a few days! The original recipe came from a magazine called Clean Eating and has become part of my regular winter repertoire. As usual, I have altered slightly to suit my taste but I think you will love it. Check it out and do let me know what you think.

Ingredients:

Crispy Cauliflower Topping:

1 head cauliflower cut into small florets
(1/2 – 3/4-inch florets)

1 Tablespoon Extra Virgin Olive Oil

sea salt and ground black pepper to taste

Soup:

2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
1 yellow onion, chopped
8 cloves garlic, chopped
2 tsp ground sumac
1 tsp smoked paprika
pinch of cayenne pepper (gives the soup a nice kick, but is optional)
1 large head cauliflower cut into medium florets
1 medium yukon gold potato cut into 1 inch pieces
6 cups low sodium vegetable broth
1tsp sea salt+ additional to taste
1/2 cup tahini paste
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1/3 cup fresh dill, chopped

Instructions:

Prepare topping. Preheat oven to 425F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl toss the florets with olive oil, salt and pepper and once all is coated spread the florets out on the baking sheet and roast for approximately 20 minutes or until the florets get nice and brown and crispy. (I like them almost burnt, but you definitely want them crispy if not burnt)

Meanwhile, in a large pot on medium, heat olive oil. Add onion and sauté until softened and translucent. Then add the garlic, sumac, paprika and cayenne and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, until fragrant, stirring constantly.

Add medium florets, potato, broth and 1 tsp salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook, partially covered, until potatoes and cauliflower are tender, about 20 minutes. Stir in tahini and lemon juice and simmer for 2 minutes more.

Using an immersion blender, puree soup. Season with additional salt as needed. Divide the soup between the bowls and top with fresh dill and crispy cauliflower.

I like the soup on the thicker side, if you prefer a thinner consistency use slightly less tahini paste.