Recently, I’ve had some requests for crock pot meals and it has reminded me just how handy this method of cooking really is. Though there is some prep required, the crock pot cuts back on the active time in the kitchen. The main beauty of using a slow-cooker—in my opinion at least—is walking in the door after a long day and having dinner ready, waiting on you. It’s almost magical in a way, opening the door and having the smells of a home-cooked meal greet you. When you’re feeling energized in the morning, you start the meal; that way, you can come home and relax—dinner is already made!
Category Archives: Entrée
Gnudi with Pomodoro Sauce
Gnudi–what a fun word to say! It actually means “nude” or “naked” in Italian. My favorite part of ravioli, manicotti, and other stuffed pasta is the filling. The heavenly delicious pocket of warm, cheesy delight. Imagine having just the filling of ravioli without the wrapper and you have gnudi. Why had I never heard of this before?
Gnudi is similar in texture to gnocchi, but tastes quite different due to the cheeses. The rich, decadent gnudi pair well with a simple yet flavorful pomodoro sauce. Pomodoro sauce is similar to marinara sauce, but thicker and jazzed up a bit with herbs and spices.
Coriander Fish with Lemon Rice
This meal is flavorful, fast, and healthy. With very little prep required and the use of only one pot, this meal is great for a busy week night. The zest, lemon juice, and poppy seeds transform ordinary rice into a satisfying, citrusy delight. The spice-rubbed fish is placed over the rice and is steamed, producing a very healthy alternative to sautéing or frying. The coriander spice mix complements the flavors of the rice with the citrus-like flavor of the coriander, while the ginger and paprika add spicy, sweet notes. A truly, satisfying dish.
Tilapia with Tomatillo Sauce and Avocados with Creamy Corn and Peppers
Today I give you a dish inspired by the flavors of Mexico, utilizing cilantro, lime, garlic, tomatillos, and peppers. This dish makes for a wonderful presentation, with the yellow of the corn, the red and green of the peppers, and the nice golden-brown of the fish; it is sure to please the eye. This meal is packed full of flavor and healthy to boot. Serve with cold beer or margaritas and you’re in for a fun night.
Featured Ingredient: Tomatillo
Tomatillos are related to tomatoes. They are small, round, green fruit and have a greenish-brown papery husk covering them. When using tomatillos, first remove the husks; the husks will be somewhat sticky. Carefully wash the tomatillos, removing any dirt. Next cut the top off the tomatillos. Then use the tomatillos as needed. Tomatillos are a staple in Mexican cuisine and can be used in salsas, as well as in a variety of sauces. If you have not tried them, you really should.
Sausages with White Beans in Tomato Sauce
What I really love about this particular meal is that it requires minimal active cooking time, uses only two pots, and utilizes economical ingredients, yet still manages to pack in the flavor. While the beans are simmering, garlic and sage aromas permeate the air tantalizing your taste buds. When you sit down to dinner and finally have that first bite, you will know the wait was worth it. This dish was inspired by Italian peasant food and boy did they know what they were doing. Buon Appetito!