Harissa Spiced Quinoa Salad

Sometimes I wished in another world.I wished I lived in a world and culture devoid of social media, the stresses of modern life – a simplistic loving community, focused on family, relationships, and the healing, nourishing power of food. Harissa (Arabic: هريسة‎ harīsa, from Maghrebi Arabic) is a Tunisian & Libyan hot chili pepper paste, the main ingredients of which…

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Purple Sweet Potato Shingles with Peach Macadamia Butter (& Chicken)

Purple Sweet Potato Shingles with Peach Macadamia Butter & Chicken 4 Tbs. butter (or vegan butter or coconut oil)4 bone-in, skin on, chicken thighs (omit for vegan)sea salt and pepper1 large purple sweet potato, cleaned and thinly sliced1 large peach, finely chopped1/2 cup macadamia nuts, chopped2 tsp. Champagne vinegar or Golden Balsamic Vinegar In a…

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Sweet Butternut Kale & Spicy Chicken

He said to me, as he took his first bite, “What the holy hell fire did you put in this?!” Um, I’m not really sure how to take that – I think I’ll proceed in my dreamland to believe that he enjoyed the spice. Or, perhaps when publishing the recipe, I’ll back off the heat…

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Italian Lentil Salad

I have always loved lentils. High in protein, high in fiber, full of flavor, and great texture – they are an all time favorite. And, they can be so versatile – seasoned, cooked, canned – made any way you like it.However, there was a time in my 30s when my digestion simply said, “no.” No…

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Spicy Collards, Rice, & Sausage

Harissa means spicy. It also means yummy – in my vocabulary. It’s a spice mix that’s quite flavorful and aromatic with a touch of kick, but one that’s not too overwhelming. And, when cooked with collard greens and fragrant Jasmine rice, alongside some spicy sausage (meat or plant-based), a magical amalgamation takes place for the…

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Basil Blistered Edamame

The majority of the time, when I enjoy big pods of edamame, I use them simply as a vehicle for good salt.Oh, yes. SALT. I’m a fan – GOOD salt, that is.Our cupboards are spilling with salts: different grinds and shapes, different infusions, salts from all over the world. I do enjoy the flavor and…

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Chocolate Chunk Mincemeat Bacon Cookies

“Gross. You can’t make a baked good with meat in it! No way!” You wanna bet?I’ve done it before and I’ll do it again.And, I did. The holidays are here and traditional mincemeat DID contain meat: Mincemeat is a mixture of chopped dried fruit, distilled spirits and spices, and sometimes beef suet, beef, or venison. Originally, mincemeat always contained meat. Many modern recipes contain beef…

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Rainbow Carrot Tarragon Lemon Detox Salad

Sometimes we all need a little break from the daily grind – whether that be food, fun, fortune, whatever. As summer comes to a close, my heart wells up and my eyes begin to swell. I miss the fresh produce, raw fruits and vegetables, and herbal goodness that line the farmer’s market rows. I need…

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Italian Beef Tenderloin Braid

“I’m going to braid a tenderloin tonight!”“What? You’re going to braid meat? Good luck with that.” No luck necessary.I can do anything! Well, not really, but most things. I knew it would work. A luscious beef tenderloin braided, marinated, and roasted with a spicy marinara, parmesan cheese, and fresh rosemary. It’s a thing, you know….

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Lemon Tarragon Mushroom Chicken

And, I’m back with another Lemon Tarragon recipe creation.This time, the combination is a on the savory side, with the addition of sautéed chicken breast and mushrooms. Oh, and a hint of stoneground mustard! Lemon Tarragon Mushroom Chicken 2 Tbs. butter (or oil)2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts2 cups wil mushrooms, slicedsea salt and pepper1…

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