If you know me, you understand my love for avocados. I constantly try to keep up with food trends and when I saw fried avocado on a menu this weekend, I knew I had to give it a whirl. Avocados provide so many nutrients, including heart-healthy fats and fiber. In this recipe, they are lightly … Tempura Fried Avocado Tacos with Chipotle-Orange Mayo
I had never even heard of morel mushrooms until culinary school and, since living in Iowa, I now know why they are such a luxury. The morels have been in full abundance this year and several hunters have been successful. I got lucky enough to have some given to me (a chef’s dream!) so I … Morel Mushroom Risotto
This is what I like to call “lazy Sunday” food. It’s hearty and comforting, and on a dark, rainy day like this one, it definitely hit the spot. The meaty mushrooms and lemony ricotta pair perfectly with the fresh herb pesto (and a glass of white wine). If you want to make this dish for … Mushroom Ravioli with Spring Herb Pesto
Some of the best meals are the simplest ones. Back when I was doing my dietetic internship and living by myself, I would always resort to affordable, quick meals – especially pasta. Customers are always asking me if pasta is a good meal choice and I always tell them it can be, as long as … Spinach Feta Penne Pasta
Marion is starting their process to become a “Blue Zone”. This means we have been chosen as a site where we will strive to live longer, better lives by making improvements in schools, grocery stores, restaurants and other areas in the community. This is very exciting for me as I often work with all of … Kale Artichoke Dip
Today, all I could think about is WARMTH. I stuck close to the space heater in my office for even the slightest bit of comfort. These negative temperatures are rough on an outdoors person like myself. When we head to the Rose Bowl on Wednesday (woo!) I will be soaking up the sun as much … (Veggie Loaded) Broccoli Cheddar Soup
A few weeks ago, we had our annual parmesan cheese wheel cracking which is referred to as the “Crack Heard Around the Midwest”. I like to call it one the best days of the year. What chef wouldn’t love having as much fresh parmigiano reggiano cheese as they want? … Hot Artichoke Parmesan Dip
Fall is slowly approaching! Although it doesn’t feel like it outside quite yet, I took it upon myself to get a jump start on testing dishes with fall flavors. Butternut squash is one of my absolute favorite veggies. It’s creamy and buttery texture is so comforting. Paired with kale and sundried tomatoes, this dish is … Barley Salad with Roasted Butternut Squash and Kale
I’m a huge fan of buying local produce. It tastes garden-fresh and with less distance to travel, you are guaranteed a fresher product. This time of year, sweet corn, tomatoes and cucumbers are great vegetables to incorporate into your favorite salads or pasta dishes. Grilled Zucchini and Tomato Salad Serves 4 All you need: Marinade … Local Produce
Leafy greens are a vegetable you know you should be eating but may be a little uneasy to try. Well, I’m here to show you they can be super delicious if prepared correctly. Here are four recipes to try this summer that are satisfying and may actually leave you craving more! Kale: Excellent source of … Leafy Greens
