Delish Your Dish

“And the Golden Popcorn Goes To…”- Vegan...

Mon, 08 Mar 2010 13:51:12 -0500

“And the Golden Popcorn Goes To…”- Vegan Caramel Popcorn with Dark Chocolate Drizzle and Almonds

All week I was trying to come up with a dish to make for the Oscar viewing party I was going to. I finally decided on making some delish caramel corn with chocolate drizzle. While I was scouring the internet for an easy way to make this favorite snack, I stumbled upon my friend’s blog, Papery and Cakery. Ali is a gifted Pastry Chef and shares her great recipes and cooking tips on her blog. So this week I have to thank her for giving me this great recipe (although I did end up making it vegan instead).

What You Need:

1 Cup Sugar

1/2 Cup Corn Syrup

1/4 Cup Water

7 Cups Air Popped Popcorn (I bought pre-made plain popcorn from Whole Foods)

1/2 Tsp. Baking Soda

1 Tbsp. Butter (or Earth Balance for the Vegan Version)

Melted Dark Chocolate (for the drizzle)

Nuts, Pretzels, or any other add-ins (optional)

1. In a large pot add the sugar, corn syrup and water. Cook until it starts to turn a golden color (do not stir)

2. Add in the baking soda and butter and the popcorn. Mix quickly and carefully. Pour in your nuts or any other add-ins. Then spread the popcorn onto a parchment/silpat lined baking sheet. Allow the popcorn to cool then drizzle with dark chocolate.

I can't wait to try all your recipes! They look SO YUMMY! I wish there was a trader joe's closer to me :(

Sat, 06 Mar 2010 10:00:00 -0500

Thank you!! I’m so happy you’re enjoying the site! If you happen to find a product near you that you want to use and need a recipe for, just shoot me a message. I’ll do my best to cook up a great recipe for you!

“Ann Curry Meets Fergie”- Curry Rubbed Tofu with...

Fri, 05 Mar 2010 13:54:46 -0500

“Ann Curry Meets Fergie”- Curry Rubbed Tofu with Harvest Grains, Asparagus and Black-Eyed Peas

While rummaging through the spices in my house, I stumbled upon a curry rub that striked my fancy. I took just one little sniff from the bottle and I couldn’t resist making a dish with this long, lost spice.

What You Need:

1/2 Block Tofu (drained and patted dry)

Curry Rub (I used Cousin Nate’s)

Trader Joe’s Harvest Grains Blend (it’s a blend of Israeli couscous, orzo, baby garbanzo beans and red quinoa- if you don’t have this blend just use any of the above grains)

1 Bunch of Steamed Asparagus (chopped)

1/2 Onion (chopped)

1/2 Can Black-Eyed Peas

Coriander/Cayenne Pepper/Salt/Pepper (to taste)

1/2 Tbsp. Crushed Garlic

Mushroom Soup Consomme (optional)

Heat oven to 400 degrees.

1. Slice the tofu into 1/4” squares. Rub the tofu with the curry rub on one or both sides then place on greased cookie sheet (for a spicier tofu, put the rub on both sides). Place tray in oven for about 30 minutes or until the tofu has dried and crisped a bit.

2. Meanwhile, cook the grains according to the package. If you want, add a spoonful of mushroom/onion/vegetable consomme to add flavor to the grains.

3. While the grains and tofu are cooking, grease a saute pan and toss in the onions. Cook the onions on low/medium heat until they are softened then add the garlic. Keep stirring so the garlic doesn’t burn. Add in the asparagus and black-eyed peas. Turn off heat.

4. Once the grains are cooked, add them to the saute pan. Combine all the ingredients and season with coriander, cayenne pepper, salt/pepper. Serve the tofu alongside the grains.

“Buffalo Soldier”- Vegetarian Buffalo...

Mon, 01 Mar 2010 16:05:31 -0500

“Buffalo Soldier”- Vegetarian Buffalo “Chicken” Pizza

I spent the majority of my Sunday shopping for food. First stop was the Larchmont Farmer’s Market. That place puts the biggest smile on my face. I roamed the market, tasted fresh fruit, veggies, and smelled the fragrant herbs. I picked up a beautiful bouquet of flowers for the house, fresh asparagus and scallions. Then it was time to head to my next favorite place. That special place is none other than…Trader Joe’s.

Considering it was a long day of running around LA, I decided on a lazy Sunday dinner recipe. What can be easier than pizza?

What You Need:

Pizza Dough (I Used Trader Joe’s Whole Wheat Pizza Dough)

Buffalo Wing Sauce

1/2 Red Onion (diced)

Vegetarian Chik’n Strips (I used Trader Joe’s- if your strips are frozen, make sure to defrost them)

1 Tbsp. Scallions

Shredded Mozzarella Cheese

4 Large White Mushrooms (sliced thin)

Set Oven to 450 degrees

1. Dust your counter with flour. Allow dough to sit on the surface for about 20 minutes. Then, using a rolling pin (or I used a wine bottle), roll out your pizza dough to a desired shape. Place the flattened dough onto a greased cookie sheet, or onto a pizza stone. Using a fork, poke holes in the dough so it doesn’t bubble up. Place tray in oven for about 10 minutes.

2. Carefully remove dough from the oven and flip the dough over. Using a brush, coat the dough with the buffalo wing sauce. Next, lay the chik’n strips onto the pizza and lightly coat them with the buffalo sauce as well. Next, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella onto the dough.

3. Then, top the pizza with the sliced mushrooms and diced red onions. Place the pizza back in the oven for about 10 minutes. Before serving, sprinkle the scallions onto the pizza. Slice and enjoy!

Here are some photos from the Larchmont Farmer’s Market:

*I made half of the pizza with vegan cheese and half with the shredded mozzarella.

**Sprinkle some corn meal onto the stone or cookie sheet. The corn meal gives the crust a great texture.

“What’s Cookin’, Good Lookin’?”-...

Fri, 26 Feb 2010 16:53:47 -0500

“What’s Cookin’, Good Lookin’?”- Silverlake Food Truck Block Party

I’m starting a new addition to the usual Delish Your Dish topics. Now that I live in the land of great food, restaurants and foodie events, I thought I’d keep those of you who are in the area up to date on some fun food related activities in the LA area.

This weekend I’ll be hitting up the Silverlake Food Truck Block Party and Flea Market. Favorite Food Trucks such as the Buttermilk Truck and Phamish, along with many others will be there to fill your tummy with all sorts of goodies.

So come out and meet up with me, so we can dive face first into some delish food truck yummy goodness.

What else is cookin’ this weekend?

Love Notes to Trader Joe

Fri, 26 Feb 2010 15:56:21 -0500

Love Notes to Trader Joe:

Many of you know my obsession with Trader Joe’s and some of you may have thought of staging an intervention. My love for Trader Joe’s has grown even more now that I’m living in LA and have it just around the corner.

So to show my love for Trader Joe’s, I’ve started a new blog called Love Notes to Trader Joe, which will showcase new products that I’ve found and love. New recipes will soon accompany my love notes.

Hope you all enjoy!

“Tired of Being Somebody’s Chick”- Vegan...

Wed, 24 Feb 2010 14:19:44 -0500

“Tired of Being Somebody’s Chick”- Vegan Chicken Scallopini with Roasted Tomatoes, Lentils and Mushrooms

So far I’m really liking LA. Aside from the beautiful weather, celeb sightings and everything else LA has to offer, I have to say I’m more excited that I have a Trader Joe’s near me. It’s honestly my favorite place.

My sister, who is also my roommate, is a Vegan and has been begging me to cook Vegan meals for her. While I’m more apt to cook with dairy and eggs, I don’t mind throwing in a Vegan meal here and there.

What You Need:

Gardein Chick’n Scallopini

6-7 Large White Mushroom Caps (sliced)

1/2 Large Yellow Onion (chopped)

Lemon Juice (to taste)

Cayenne Pepper (to taste)

2 Cups Steamed Lentils (Trader Joe’s)

2 Roma Tomatoes (sliced thin)

Basil

1 tbsp. Crushed Garlic

1 tbsp. Minced Garlic

Olive Oil

Balsamic Reduction

Salt/Pepper (to taste)

For the tomatoes:

1. Heat oven to 400 degrees on convection, or if you don’t have a convection oven set it to 450 degrees. Then, grease a small tin or casserole dish. Place the tomatoes into dish. Lightly spread the crushed garlic onto the tomato slices.

2. Then, top the tomatoes with a light drizzle of olive oil, balsamic vinegar and season with salt and pepper. Then place the tray in the oven for about 10-15 minutes. Then remove from oven and sprinkle with fresh basil. Set aside.

For the Chick’n:

1. Defrost the Chick’n in the microwave. Then heat a small greased skillet on medium heat. Throw the pattie into the skillet and brown on both sides. Then set aside.

For the Lentils:

1. Heat a medium sized greased skillet on low-medium heat. Toss in the onions and garlic into the pre-heated pan. Saute until the onions have cooked down. Then add the mushrooms. Allow the mushrooms to cook down then add the lentils.

2. Next, squeeze lemon juice onto the lentils and lightly toss. Season with the cayenne pepper and salt.

3. Then, place the lentils into a greased casserole dish. Place the scallopini’s on top of the lentils. Next, place the tomatoes on top of the scallopini’s and place the tray into the oven for about 5-10 minutes. Then right before you serve your dish, drizzle balsamic reduction on top of the casserole dish.

*Today’s recipe title is a quote from one of my favorite movies. Can you name that movie?

Delish Detector!- Peeled Snacks FREE GIVEAWAY AT STARBUCKS on...

Tue, 23 Feb 2010 11:23:48 -0500

Delish Detector!- Peeled Snacks FREE GIVEAWAY AT STARBUCKS on FRIDAY!!

A few months ago I discovered Peeled Snacks and turned a few of you onto these delish and healthy treats. These have come in quite handy when looking for a healthy alternative to your usual snack. For example, I was at the airport the other day and started to get a little hungry. Instead of indulging in a giant cinnamon bun or gulping down a 500 calorie smoothie, I picked up a bag of Peeled Snacks to munch on.

Come by Starbucks on Friday Feb. 26th to try Peeled Snacks for FREE!!

“Back in the Chai Life Again”- Chai Soy Latte...

Mon, 22 Feb 2010 12:49:42 -0500

“Back in the Chai Life Again”- Chai Soy Latte Oatmeal with Raisins, Walnuts and Almonds

So I’m officially in Los Angeles and quasi-moved into my new place. While it may be a temporary place to stay, I’ve done my share of making it feel like home. I spent more time shopping for food and cooking utensils than I did shopping for things for my bedroom.

Since I’m a Florida girl, this chilly LA weather has got me walking around my house in slippers and a robe. To help warm me up in the morning, I’ve taken my usual oatmeal and kicked it up a notch.

What You Need:

1/2 Cup Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats (I use Bob’s Red Mill Thick Cut Oats)

1 Cup Soy Milk (Vanilla or Originial)

1/2 Cup Water

Chai Tea (I use Celestial Seasonings Sweet Coconut Thai)

1/2-1 tbps Cinnamon

Almond/Peanut Butter (Optional)

Almonds

Walnuts

1/4 Cup Raisins

1. In a microwave safe measuring cup, combine water and soy milk and heat for about 3 minutes. Remove from microwave and place the tea packet into the measuring cup. Allow the tea to steep for about 2-3 minutes then remove tea packet.

2. Then, add the rolled oats and tea mixture to a small pot. Add the cinnamon and raisins, then stir. Set the pot on low heat and bring to a boil. Stir the oatmeal every few minutes. After about 10 minutes, or until the oatmeal is to your liking, remove from heat. Add your nuts or nut butters to the bowl, then top with a splash of soy milk.

“You’ve Got the Right Stuff…Baby”- Goat...

Fri, 19 Feb 2010 12:33:14 -0500

“You’ve Got the Right Stuff…Baby”- Goat Cheese Stuffed California Dates Drizzled with Honey

So tomorrow is the big day! I’m starting the beginning process of my move to California. Excited? Yes! Nervous? Heck Yes! But, I’m looking forward to finding my niche in the culinary world.

So in honor of my big move to the west coast, I thought I’d start dinner off last night with a little California flair. Before dinner I created a little nosh of California Dates stuffed with goat cheese and honey, walnuts, almonds and a glass of Redwood Creek Wine. It was a classy way to start off the meal, but also didn’t fill me up too much.

What You Need:

California Dates (Pitted)

Goat Cheese

Honey (or Agave Nectar)

1. Carefully use a knife to slice the date lengthwise. Do not cut all the way through though.

2. Use a spoon or your fingers to stuff the goat cheese into the date. Gently squeeze the date back together. Place the stuffed dates on a plate and drizzle with honey or agave nectar.

3. Serve with nuts, grapes or other cheeses and a glass of wine.

TROOP BEVERLY HILLS: THE EXPERIENCE TONIGHT IN...

Tue, 16 Feb 2010 13:20:38 -0500

TROOP BEVERLY HILLS: THE EXPERIENCE TONIGHT IN BROOKLYN!!!!

“Gather ‘round you friends of mine, we’re wilderness girls and its…” Troop Beverly Hills: The Experience time!!!

Whether you’re a big fan of the movie or just wanna come have a good time and kick back a few drinks while you watch Troop Beverly Hills with a bunch of super fans, tonight is for you! I will also be there, so if you’re a fan of Delish Your Dish, come out and meet me!!

Also, Ivy Bakery will be there to sell some delish Wilderness Girls cookies!!

See you all tonight!!!!

*Troop Beverly Hills: The Experience was mentioned in NY Magazine’s approval matrix and in the NY Times this week

Delish Detector!- Jer’s Handmade Chocolates Last week,...

Mon, 08 Feb 2010 13:27:54 -0500

Delish Detector!- Jer’s Handmade Chocolates

Last week, Valentine’s Day came early for me when I received a box of Jer’s Homemade Chocolates! When I opened the box of these gorgeous chocolate covered peanut butter treats, it was love at first sight.

This little box of love had me in chocolate and peanut butter heaven! The rich, decadent chocolate pairs perfectly with the smooth natural peanut butter. Jer’s also creates some irresistable truffles that are filled with peanut butter, toffee, pretzels and caramel.

So, if you’re looking for the perfect way to say “I love you” this Valentine’s Day, or just feeling like treating yourself to something special, be sure to indulge in a box of the award-winning, Jer’s Homemade Chocolates! Also, if you’re feeling extra generous, send a box my way too (I love dark chocolate)!

“Sheperd’s Pie on the Fly”- Vegan...

Thu, 04 Feb 2010 13:43:48 -0500

“Sheperd’s Pie on the Fly”- Vegan Sheperd’s Pie with Sweet Potato

Last night was “Iron Chef” night in my house. In other words, I take a bunch of different ingredients from the fridge and pantry that I need to use and throw them together to create one dish. I ended up with a quick and easy Vegan Sheperd’s Pie.

Do you think Iron Chef Cat Cora wants to tango in kitchen stadium with me?

What You Need (Makes 1 “Pie”)

1 Cooked Sweet Potato (mashed)

1/2 Large Red Onion (sliced into rings, then cut in half)

1 Pkg. Birdseye Steamfresh Brussels Sprouts Singles (cooked according to pkg)

1 Tbsp. Sugar

1/4 Cup Black Beans (unseasoned)

2/3 Cup Crumbled Tempeh

1 Tbsp. Almond Milk (regular milk is okay too)

Garlic Powder (to taste)

Black Pepper (to taste)

1 Tbsp. Dijon Mustard

Set Oven to broil.

1. Heat a small, greased saute pan on low-medium heat. Add in the onions and the sugar. Cook onions until they have softened and caramelized (they will turn a nice brown color). Then, add in the cooked brussels sprouts. Saute for about 2 minutes. Then turn the heat down to low.

2. Next, add the tempeh and black beans to the onion mixture. Carefully fold in the tempeh, dijon mustard, black pepper and black beans,. Set mixture aside.

3. In a small bowl, combine the mashed sweet potato, garlic powder and black pepper. Mix well.

4. Next, pour the onion mixture into an oven safe baking dish. Then, spoon the mashed sweet potato onto the vegetables. Place dish in the oven for about 3-5 minutes.

Delish Detector!- Peanut Butter & Co. Valentine’s Day is...

Wed, 03 Feb 2010 11:51:00 -0500

Delish Detector!- Peanut Butter & Co.

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner! As many of you know, the way to my heart is through my stomach. So, if you just happen to be wondering where I want to celebrate my Valentine’s Day, let me just flat out tell you that I would for someone to take me to Peanut Butter & Co in New York City! I’m a big fan of their amazing peanut butter creations and what could be a better way to celebrate love than with my favorite food?

They just so happen to be having a Valentine’s Day special where couples can make reservations to share a Peanut Butter & Co “Sweetheart Snack”.

On the menu for this delish and budget friendly prix fixe meal are: four heart-shaped sandwiches served with Peanut Butter & Co.’s trademark potato chips and carrot sticks. Big glasses of plain or strawberry-flavored fresh milk with a heart-shaped straw for two accompany the meal, followed by our PB&J Pretzel Sundae (vanilla ice cream, peanut butter pretzels, and melba sauce) and Candy Conversation Hearts. This prix fixe menu also includes a jar of Peanut Butter & Co.’s all-natural, gourmet peanut butter.

*Also be sure to check out Peanut Butter & Co., Double Chocolate Peanut Butter Hearts for your Valentine!

**For Reservations: (212) 677-3995

“Ali Baba Ganoush and the Forty Thieves”- Homemade...

Tue, 02 Feb 2010 11:32:27 -0500

“Ali Baba Ganoush and the Forty Thieves”- Homemade Baba Ganoush with Veggie Patch Falafel and Cucumber Salad

I was craving a bit of an Israeli cuisine last week and decided to make some homemade Baba Ganoush. For those of you who aren’t familiar with this dish, it is a dip/spread that is made from roasted eggplant and is often served with falafel. The recipe usually calls for tahini (sesame paste), but I decided to go for a lower fat option.

What You Need:

1 Medium Eggplant

2 Garlic Cloves (sliced)

1 Tbsp Plain Greek Yogurt

Salt/Pepper (to taste)

1/2 Small Onion (diced)

1/4 Cup Crumbled Feta

1 1/2 Tbsp Lemon Juice (or to taste)

Set Oven on Roast Setting 450 degrees.

1. Cut small slits all over the eggplant. Stuff each opening with slices of the fresh garlic cloves. Place the eggplant in a greased pan and place in the preheated oven. Let the eggplant roast for about 20-25 minutes or until the skin of the eggplant is blistered and it has softened.

2. Remove the eggplant from the oven and allow it to cool until you are able to handle it without burning yourself. Now you have two options. You can use the entire eggplant, or you can slice the eggplant in half and scoop out the inside (I used the entire eggplant).

3. Place the scooped portion of the eggplant into a bowl and combine the rest of the ingredients. Use a hand blender to whip the ingredients together. Taste and see whether you want to add more salt/pepper/lemon juice.

4. Chill until you are ready to serve with your falafel and cucumber salad.

Delish Detector!- Veggie Patch Falafel After visiting Israel,...

Mon, 01 Feb 2010 13:15:49 -0500

Delish Detector!- Veggie Patch Falafel

After visiting Israel, the land of hummus, pita and falafel, I’ve decided that I’m quite the falafel connoseiur. Some of you may know that making falafel from scratch, or even from a box mix can be frustrating, messy and doesn’t always fry or bake just right.

Thankfully, our friends at VeggiePatch have created an easy alternative for those craving falafel. VeggiePatch now sells pre-made Falafel Chickpea Balls that have been flash fried and baked to perfection. All you need to do is heat them up and serve them with your favorite toppings and pita.

The Falafel Chickpea Balls are absolutely delish and are perfect for a snack, appetizer or even a meal.

Also, make sure to check out the rest of the great VeggiePatch products!

Delish Detector!- Ann Clark Cookie Cutters Fellow bakers and...

Mon, 01 Feb 2010 09:49:00 -0500

Delish Detector!- Ann Clark Cookie Cutters

Fellow bakers and cookie lovers, I found a perfect addition for your kitchen utensil drawer! Ann Clark cookie cutters will help you to keep away from those old, boring, round cookies you’re used to making.

With tons of different cookie cutter shapes to choose from, you’ll have perfectly shaped cookies for any occaision! Whether you’re baking up a batch of cookies for your loved one this Valentine’s Day or for your big Super Bowl party, Ann Clark cookie cutters has got the perfect shapes for you!

Be sure to check out all the shapes, gift sets and cookie recipes!

South Beach Wine and Food Festival Online Auction! We’re...

Fri, 29 Jan 2010 09:54:00 -0500

South Beach Wine and Food Festival Online Auction!

We’re approaching one of my favorite events of the year. The South Beach Wine and Food Festival is just around the corner, 27 days away, to be exact (not that I’m counting or anything).

The four day festival is a mecca for foodies and wine enthusiasts. The most gifted chefs, TV personalities, and wine & spirit producers gather to showcase their culinary talent at the festival.

In addition to the festival, there is an online auction with tons of amazing items to bid on. The auction includes items such as unique dining experiences, getaways, tickets to sporting events and other luxury items.

If you’re wondering what things I’m eyeing, here’s my list (feel free to bid on them for me):

Tickets to 2010 Aspen Food & Wine Classic

Private Cooking Class & Gourmet Lunch in Food Network Kitchens

8 Course Chef Tasting at London West Hollywood- Compliments of Gordon Ramsay

Those are just a few of the many items I’m dying to have! So, get your bid on and check out the amazing items the South Beach Wine and Food Festival has to offer!

TROOP BEVERLY HILLS: THE EXPERIENCE Where my New York Wilderness...

Thu, 28 Jan 2010 12:02:51 -0500

TROOP BEVERLY HILLS: THE EXPERIENCE

Where my New York Wilderness Girls and Guys at? An official “troop” meeting has been set for Feb. 16th in Brooklyn at The Bell House.

Come out to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Troop Beverly Hills. We’ll sing, dance, boo Velda and of course eat Wilderness Girl cookies!

I’ll be there selling some of my delish cookies! So, I better see you all in attendance! Be sure to buy your tickets in advance!

Beverly Hills what a thrill!

Delish Detector and GIVEAWAY!- New Pirate’s Booty New York...

Tue, 26 Jan 2010 13:40:00 -0500

Delish Detector and GIVEAWAY!- New Pirate’s Booty New York Pizza Flavor!

Calling all Pirate’s Booty fans! Pirate Brands has added another delish flavor to the Pirate’s Booty family. New York Pizza Pirate’s Booty is the perfect guilt-free snack that is baked to perfection. These puffs have that great New York pizza flavor and are made with all-natural ingredients.

Enter to win a box full of Pirate’s Booty New York Pizza!!

How to Enter:

1. Show Delish Your Dish some love by “liking” the post, commenting and passing it onto a friend.

2. Then, send an email to delishyourdish@gmail.com with your name and contact information by January 31st, 11:59pm. Your name will be entered into a drawing that will be held on Feb 1, 2010.

3. The 2 winners will be contacted via email. (US Residents only)