Category: Gluten-Free

Red Pepper Panko Tilapia – Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free

The secret to this well seasoned gluten-free tilapia dish is browning the panko mixture before you bread the fillets. Tilapia is an inexpensive farm-raised white fish that is easy to cook, low in fat, and a good source of protein. Don’t overlook its nutritional benefits. This recipe gives it flavor and pizzaz. Let me know how yours turns out.

Preparation time: 10 minutes

Cooking time: 15 minutes

Servings: 4

Ingredients

1 cup gluten-free PANKO BREAD CRUMBS
3 tablespoons EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL
4 TILAPIA FILLETs, about 6 ounces each
1/4 teaspoon ROASTED GARLIC POWDER
1/2 teaspoon GINGER, ground
1/2 teaspoon PAPRIKA
1/2 teaspoon crushed RED PEPPER FLAKES
KOSHER SALT, to taste
BLACK PEPPER, to taste
Serving suggestion: LEMON wedge

Directions

  • PREHEAT oven to 425 degrees F
  • PREPARE BREADING
    • In a medium flat bottomed bowl (because you will be using it to bread the fillets), COMBINE panko crumbs, garlic powder, ginger, paprika, and red pepper flakes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. MIX well.
    • SPREAD panko mixture on a baking sheet and BAKE for 5 minutes, until lightly browned.
    • RETURN to bowl
  • SEASON fillets with salt and pepper, to your taste
  • PRESS each fillet into the prepared panko mixture, coating both sides thoroughly. (And I mean really PRESS with your hands so it sticks well.)
  • PLACE the fillets on the baking sheet that you used to brown the panko mixture.
  • DRIZZLE the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil over the fillets
  • BAKE for 15 minutes
  • SERVE warm, with a wedge of lemon
  • STORE in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 1-2 days
  • Gather ingredients
  • Combine panko and spices
  • Mix in EVOO
  • Toast panko mixture
  • Season fillets
  • Press fillets in panko
  • Served with broccoli and roasted acorn squash

Inspired by Food and Wine’s Crispy Baked Tilapia

Roasted Maple Acorn Squash Delight

If winter had a taste, this quick, easy, and delicious side dish would be it. Who can resist maple syrup, brown sugar, and spices? Don’t be afraid of the acorn squash’s rugged exterior. With a sharp knife and a cutting board, you will master this veggie in no time. Leave the skin on, it’s soft and edible when roasted.

Preparation time: 10 minutes

Cooking time: 30 minutes

Servings: 4

Ingredients

2 ACORN SQUASH, cut in 1-inch slices
2 tablespoons VEGAN BUTTER, melted
1 tablespoon OLIVE OIL
1/4 cup pure MAPLE SYRUP
1/4 teaspoon CINNAMON, ground
1/8 teaspoon CLOVES, ground
1/2 teaspoon KOSHER SALT
1 tablespoons BROWN SUGAR, more to taste

DIRECTIONS

  • PREHEAT oven to 400 degrees F
  • WASH squash and pat dry
  • With a sharp knife, SLICE 1/4 inch off the stem and base ends of the squash
  • SET the squash down on the flat sliced stem end and CUT the squash in half from top to bottom
  • Using a large spoon, REMOVE the seeds and pulp from each half and discard/compost.
  • Lay each piece on its flat side and CUT 1-inch slices
  • In a medium-size microwave-safe bowl, COMBINE the butter, maple syrup, oil, cinnamon, salt and cloves and heat for 30-45 seconds, until the butter melts. STIR well.
  • On a rimmed baking sheet, ARRANGE the slices in a single layer.
  • BRUSH the maple mixture over all the slices
  • TURN the slices with a fork and BRUSH the other side
  • SPRINKLE brown sugar on each slice
  • BAKE for 15 minutes and then flip each slice and bake another 15 minutes. You know they are done when they are well carmelized and tender.
  • SERVE warm
  • STORE in an air-tight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days
  • Organize your ingredients
  • Use a sharp knife to cut the top and bottom off
  • Scoop out the seeds
  • Scoop out the pulp too
  • Slice each half into 1″ pieces. Arrange on pan
  • Brush maple sauce and sprinkle brown sugar
  • Cook for 15 minutes and then turn each slice over for another 15
  • Maple caramel tender delights

Gluten-Free Tagliatelle with Bay Scallops & Sweet Peas

If sauteing bay scallops in garlic, white wine, and vegan butter weren’t delicious enough, serving them with pasta and sweet peas make this dish not only flavorful but colorful too. I love finding different gluten-free kinds of pasta. Tagliatelle is similar to fettuccine; its a long, flat, egg noodle. Jovial Foods makes a nice brown rice variety. If you are looking for a seafood dish to serve your friends and family, this gluten-free, dairy-free delight will get no complaints, I promise.

Preparation time: 5-10 minutes (fresh vs frozen)

Cooking time: 15 minutes

Servings: 4

Ingredients

1 pound gluten-free TAGLIATELLE PASTA noodles
10 ounces SWEET PEAS (fresh or frozen)
3 tablespoons VEGAN BUTTER, divided in 1/2
1 tablespoon OLIVE OIL
1 pound BAY SCALLOPS, rinsed and dried (fresh or frozen)
3 cloves GARLIC, chopped
2 tablespoons LEMON JUICE
1/4 cup + 1 tablespoon WHITE WINE
1 tablespoon BASIL
1 teaspoon OREGANO
1 pinch KOSHER SALT, to taste
1/2 teaspoon ground BLACK PEPPER, to taste
Optional toppings:
   Sprinkle of Italian PARSLEY, chopped
   Sprinkle of Vegan PARMESAN CHEESE

Directions

  • PREPARE PASTA
    • BOIL water over high heat for the pasta. COOK pasta according to the package. Best to cook ‘al dente’ (firm to the bite).
    • Drain the pasta but SAVE about 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later
  • PREPARE PEAS
    • If using FROZEN, follow the package directions.
    • If using FRESH, I recommend steaming then in a saucepan.
      • FILL a saucepan with enough water to cover the bottom but not up to the steamer basket
      • Bring the water to a BOIL over high heat
      • ADD the sweet peas and COVER for 2 minutes
      • REMOVE from heat and set aside
  • PREPARE SCALLOPS
    • If using FROZEN scallops then THAW in a colander under cold running water for about 5 minutes. RINSE scallops and PAT dry with a paper towel.
    • If using FRESH scallops, RINSE and PAT scallops dry with a paper towel.
    • HEAT a large heavy frying pan over medium-high heat. ADD oil and 1-1/2 tablespoons of butter until it starts to brown.
    • ADD 1/2 the scallops to the very hot skillet*. SPRINKLE with salt and pepper and SEAR for 90 seconds without stirring.
      • *The key to searing the scallops is a very hot pan and leaving lots of room for them to cook. If the pan is not hot enough and the scallops are crowded, they will steam instead of sear. Scallops contain a lot of liquid which will express when they cook. And, I recommend that you take the scallops off the heat a little before you think they are done because they will continue to cook in the bowl.
    • FLIP the scallops over and SEAR on the other side for another 90 seconds.
    • REMOVE the first batch of seared scallops from the pan. PLACE in a medium bowl and set aside.
    • ADD more butter, if needed, and the remaining scallops.
    • SEAR the scallops the same way as you did the first time.
    • REMOVE the second batch and add to the first.
  • PREPARE THE SAUCE
    • In the frying pan you used for the scallops there should still be a hot oil/butter mixture on the bottom. If not, ADD more butter, if you need, and heat until bubbling.
    • ADD the garlic and SAUTE for 1 minute until it starts to brown.
    • ADD the white wine, basil, and oregano and let it bubble. REDUCE for 1 minute.
    • ADD the lemon juice. Salt and pepper to taste.
    • COOK for 1-2 minutes. It should reduce about 1/3.
  • PUT IT ALL TOGETHER
    • ADD the scallops to the sauce and toss to cover with sauce
    • ADD the cooked pasta to the sauce and use the saved pasta water to extend the sauce if needed
    • TOSS the pasta with the sauce and scallops to combine
    • MIX in sweet peas for color and taste. The amount of peas to add is really a personal preference., I used the whole bag. 
    • TOSS everything to combine
  • SERVE with a topping of parsley and/or vegan parmesan cheese
  • Rinse & dry scallops
  • Heat butter & oil HOT
  • Sear scallops
  • Saute garlic
  • Return scallops to sauce
  • Add pasta to sauce
  • Toss sweet peas with scallops, pasta, and sauce

Paleo Banana Bread Muffins – Gluten-Free & Dairy Free

This is my first known attempt at a PALEO treat and they taste amazing. I created these muffins with almond butter, almond flour, bananas, and eggs. They are dense like banana bread but easier to eat in muffin form. They are dairy-free, grain-free, and if you don’t use the paleo chocolate chips, they contain no extra sugar and are soy-free too. We have been eating them with dairy-free cream cheese for breakfast all week.

Preparation time: 10 minutes

Cook time: 19 minutes

Servings: 18 muffins

Ingredients

 
3 large EGGS, room temperature 
1/2 cup natural ALMOND BUTTER
1/2 teaspoon VANILLA EXTRACT
4 ripe BANANAS, mashed (about 1-1/2 cups)*
1 cup ALMOND FLOUR
1 teaspoon corn-free BAKING POWDER 
1 teaspoon BAKING SODA
1 teaspoon CINNAMON, ground
1/4 teaspoon ALLSPICE
1/2 teaspoon NUTMEG, ground
1/4 teaspon SALT
1/3 cup WALNUTS, chopped plus some for topping
Optional: 1/4 cup Paleo dairy-free MINI CHOCOLATE CHIPS** plus
   some for topping 

    *I freeze over-ripe bananas often (why waste them?). They 
    work great for mixes like this. They thaw quickly and
    mash easily. 
    ** Without the chocolate chips these muffins
    will also be soy-free

Directions

  • PREHEAT the oven to 375 degrees. (This is 25 degrees warmer than we are going to bake them at, but the extra heat to start helps the muffins brown on top when cooked.)
  • LINE 18 muffin cups with paper liners (I use 2 12-cup muffin trays because that is what I have.)
  • In a medium bowl, MASH bananas until smooth.
  • In a large bowl, BEAT the eggs and then ADD almond butter and vanilla. WHISK them all together well.
  • ADD mashed banana puree to the wet mixture
  • DUMP in almond flour, baking soda, baking powder, and spices. Gently MIX dry ingredients with wet mash mixture until there are no lumps. The batter should be a medium consistency. Don’t use an electric mixer because over beating the batter will cause the muffins not to rise. Just mix until you don’t see any more flour.
  • FOLD in walnuts and chocolate chips (if using).
  • Using a soup ladle, FILL each muffin lined cup 2/3 full
  • Optionally, TOP 1/2 the muffin cups with some extra chopped nuts and 1/2 with extra chocolate chips
  • LOWER the oven temperature to 350 degrees
  • BAKE the muffins for 14-19 minutes. Check them at 14 minutes. You know they are done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean (unless it hits a chocolate chip, then use another toothpick and try again).
  • COOL the muffins in the pan for 5 minutes then transfer to cooling racks. Cool completely.
  • STORE in an airtight container for 2-3 days or FREEZE in an airtight container for 3 months.
  • Let eggs get to room temperature
  • Mash bananas and whisk wet ingredients
  • Combine mash with wet ingredients
  • Fold in dry ingredients
  • Chop walnuts
  • Add walnuts and chips
  • Fill 18 lined cups
  • Cool competely

TO MAKE A LOAF INSTEAD OF MUFFINS: If you want to try this as a bread instead of muffins, then mix all ingredients as above, but use a loaf pan instead of a muffin tray. LINE the loaf pan with parchment paper. FILL the loaf pan with the batter. TOP with chopped nuts. REDUCE oven temperature to 350 and BAKE for 50-60 minutes (using the toothpick method above to test for doneness). COOL completely in the loaf pan. LIFT out the bread using the parchment paper and slice.

Breakfast muffin with diary-free cream cheese and scrambled eggs with vegan ham

Cocktail Sauce

Once you find out how quick and tasty this cocktail sauce is, you may wonder why you ever bought it in a bottle from the store. I pair it with my ‘Maryland My Maryland’ Crab Cakes or chilled shrimp for yummy appetizers.

Total time: 5 minutes

Servings: 1 cup

Ingredients

1 cup KETCHUP
1/2 tablespoon LEMON JUICE
1 teaspoon HORSERADISH (more to taste)
1 teaspoon WORCESTERSHIRE SAUCE

Directions

  • In a small bowl, MIX all ingredients well
  • Refrigerate until ready to use.
  • Mix everything together
  • Store in refrigerator
  • Great with crab cakes

Thanks to my friend, Linda Engle, for her recipe

My Maryland Crabcakes – Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free – Fried or Broiled

Living in Maryland makes me a blue crab snob, for sure. Trying to get Gluten Free Crabcakes anywhere but in my own kitchen, is close to impossible. Most people use bread crumbs for filler, so I created a gluten-free and dairy-free crabcake with just the right amount of Old Bay seasoning that is both moist and flaky. As a condiment, I make my own cocktail sauce, which far surpasses anything in a bottle. My family loves crab and even the non-gluten-free people are in love with these cakes, Note that this recipe for 4 only fed 2 for dinner at my house. Some options to extend it might be to double the recipe (but right now lump crab is $70 a pound), make them smaller and use them as an appetizer, or extend them with a pound of claw crab meat. I updated this recipe in June 2021 to add a broil option for those that like it that way as well as changed around the order of mixing, because it works better.

Preparation time: 10 minutes + (minumum)1 hour in refrigerator

Cooking time: 8-10 minutes per cake

Servings: 4 (8 cakes)

Ingredients

1 pound fresh LUMP CRAB (Maryland jumbo lump or backfin)
1/4 cup MAYONNAISE
1-1/2 teaspoon DIJON MUSTARD
1-1/2 teaspoon OLD BAY seasoning (or more to taste)
1 teaspoon WORCESTERSHIRE sauce
1 teaspoon LEMON JUICE
1/4 teaspoon KOSHER SALT
1/4 to 1/2 cup Italian style gluten-free BREAD CRUMBS (start with 1/4)
1 teaspoon PARSLEY
1 EGG, lightly beaten
1/2 cup VEGAN BUTTER

Directions

  • DRAIN crab, if necessary, and PICK through for shells. The good-quality jumbo lump should not have shells. Place cleaned crab meat in a bowl and set aside.
  • In a large bowl, WHISK together mayonnaise, mustard, Old Bay, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and salt.
  • FOLD in the crab meat gently, trying not to separate the lumps. Combine well.
  • SPRINKLE the parsley and breadcrumbs over the crab mixture and mix gently but fully, once again trying not to break the lumps. Be careful not to mash them too much, you want the lumps to be whole.
  • In a small bowl, BEAT the egg lightly and pour over the crab/breadcrumb mixture folding gently with your hands. (Don’t over mix.)
  • COVER the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. (I put them in the refrigerator usually a few hours before cooking.)
  • When ready to cook, take the bowl out of the refrigerator and with clean damp hands, FORM the chilled crab mixture into 8* cakes, about 3-inches wide by 1-inch thick (kind of like flat baseballs). Place the formed cakes on a clean plate.
    • Or make 12 2-inches wide by 1-inch thick cakes and serve as an appetizer
  • TO FRY
    • HEAT a large skillet on medium-high heat. ADD butter and heat for about 2 minutes until the butter becomes frothy.
    • ADD the cakes to the pan. (8 1-inch cakes should all fit into a 12-inch skillet.)
    • FRY the crab cake on medium-high for about 4 minutes until golden brown then FLIP the cake and reduce heat to medium-low for another 4 minutes, until the other side is golden.
    • SERVE cakes immediately with cocktail sauce (or tartar if you prefer).
  • TO BROIL
    • PRE-HEAT the broiler in your oven.
    • PLACE the formed cakes on a parchment paper-lined backing sheet.
    • Slightly SPRINKLE them with Old Bay seasoning.
    • BROIL the cakes for 10 minutes or until golden brown.
  • STORE leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2 days.

Inspired by Classic Maryland Crab Cakes Recipe by Susie Middleton, Fine Cooking Issue 99

Vegetables, Kale, & Quinoa Bake

I am always looking for ways to add kale to things. In general, I find kale a hard vegetable to eat, so I need to “dice it and spice it” to make it work for me. This casserole works with or without vegan cheese and I add different vegetables depending on what I have available. I’ve made this in less than 30-minutes with a 20-ounce package of frozen veggies (broccoli, cauliflower, and carrots) and a 10-ounce package of chopped kale. I eat this as my dinner entree but it would work great as a healthy side dish for meat eaters too.

Preparation time: 10 minutes

Cook time: 40 minutes (20 minutes if using frozen veggies)

Servings: 8

Ingredients

4 SWEET POTATOES, peeled and chopped small*
4 CARROTS, peeled and chopped small*
1 head BROCCOLI, chopped small*
2 teapoons of EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL, divided
SALT and PEPPER to taste
1 cup QUINOA
2-1/4 cups WATER or VEGETABLE STOCK
4 cloves GARLIC, minced
1 ONION, chopped small
10 ounces KALE, ribbed and chopped
1 teaspoon CUMIN
2 teaspoons CHILI POWDER
1 cup VEGAN CHEDDAR CHEESE (optional)

*Or replace the vegetables to be roasted 
with a 20-ounce bag of mixed frozen vegetables
(like broccoli, cauliflower, and carrots).

Directions

  • ROAST FRESH vegetables
    • PREHEAT oven to 400 degrees F
    • LINE a baking sheet with aluminum foil
    • CHOP sweet potatoes, carrots, and broccoli into bitesize pieces
    • PLACE chopped veggies on the baking sheet and COAT with 1 teaspoon of the olive oil and salt and pepper to taste. MIX well. (I use my hands to MIX the oil with the veggies to make sure they are well coated.)
    • COOK for 30 minutes or until vegetables are tender and golden
    • REMOVE vegetables from the oven but KEEP THE OVEN ON
  • If using FROZEN vegetables, ignore the roasting instructions above and cook them according to the package then set aside until later.
  • PREPARE quinoa
    • Follow the package directions.
      • If you don’t have directions, here is how I cook quinoa: I rinse it well in a mesh strainer then COMBINE 2 cups of vegetable stock or water in a medium saucepan with 1 cup of quinoa.
    • ADD another 1/4 cup of liquid to keep the quinoa moist for when you bake it.
    • Bring to a BOIL then reduce heat for 15 – 20 minutes. You want some liquid left for moisture.
    • When quinoa is done, turn off heat and set aside.
  • PREPARE KALE MIX
    • CHOP onions, MINCE garlic, and CHOP kale
    • HEAT a large skillet on medium heat
    • ADD 1 teaspoon olive oil
    • ADD onions and SAUTE for 3 minutes
    • ADD garlic and SAUTE for another 2 minutes
    • ADD kale in batches, as much as your pan will hold
    • ADD a tablespoon of water for STEAM
    • COOK down kale and keep adding more kale and water until the kale has wilted to about 1/2 its original size. SAUTE as you go.
  • In a large bowl, COMBINE kale mixture, cooked mushy quinoa, and roasted (or cooked frozen) vegetables. Add cumin, chili powder, and salt and pepper to taste. STIR well.
  • SPRAY a large baking dish with cooking spray
    • NOTE on baking dishes: I use an 11 X 7 X 1-1/2 inch baking dish which holds 10 cups. Different size baking dishes require different amounts of time to cook. For example, if you use a 9 X 9 X 2, which is the same 10 cups as my 11 X7 X 1-1/2″, you should decrease the oven temperature to 325 degrees F and increase the time to complete cooking to 40 or 45 minutes, This is because the set up in the 9 X 9 X 2″ is thicker so it will take longer. (This hint came from the simpleveganblog.com)
  • ADD the total mixture into the baking dish and spread evenly across
  • If you opt to use vegan cheese as a topping, sprinkle the vegan cheese across the whole mixture evenly
  • BAKE for 10 minutes minimum (until cheese has melted).
  • Chop and roast sweet pototoes & carrots
  • Saute onions & garlic
  • Steam and saute kale with onions
  • Combine quinoa, kale, and veggies with spices
  • Spread into baking pan
  • Cover with vegan cheese
  • A great vegan entree or side-dish

Butternut Squash Soup – Vegan & Gluten-free

Apples make this soup sweet while cayenne pepper and smoked paprika give it zest. This soup is simple to make in one pot, naturally gluten-free, and by using coconut milk, it’s vegan too. I was going to use fresh butternut squash, but I waited too long and it went bad, so I grabbed a few bags of frozen chopped butternut squash from the freezer and, voila, an easy and delicious winter delight was born.

Butternut Squash preparation: 1 hour if fresh or 20 minutes if frozen

Soup preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time: 20 minutes

Servings: 6

Ingredients

4 cloves GARLIC, minced
1 large ONION, roughly chopped
2 large APPLES, peeled, corded, and roughly chopped
1 medium BUTTERNUT SQUASH (3 lbs) or 40 ounces frozen
1 tablespoon EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL (EVOO)
4 cups VEGETABLE BROTH
1 BAY LEAF
1 sprig SAGE
1/2 teaspoon KOSHER SALT
1/4 teaspoon ground BLACK PEPPER
1/8 teaspoon CAYENNE PEPPER
1 teaspoon NUTMEG
1 cup canned unsweetened COCONUT MILK (plus some for topping)
Sprinkle of SMOKED PAPRIKA

Directions

  • PREPARE butternut squash
    • If FRESH:
      • PREHEAT oven to 350 degrees F
      • CUT squash in half lengthwise
      • SCOOP out seeds and discard
      • SPRAY flesh with cooking spray and a pinch of salt and pepper
      • PLACE flesh side down in a baking dish and add 1/2 cup of water
      • BAKE about 1 hour, until flesh is soft
      • COOL until you can handle and then SCOOP out the flesh
    • If FROZEN:
      • PLACE frozen cubed squash in a microwave safe bowl and add 2 tablespoons of water per 10 ounces of cubes
      • MICROWAVE for 5 minutes per 10 ounces (time depending on the power of your microwave). You want the cubes to be soft not frozen.
  • HEAT the oil in a large stockpot over medium heat
  • ADD the onions and SAUTE for 5 minutes
  • ADD the garlic to the onions and SAUTE for another 2 or 3 minutes until the onions are translucent and the garlic is tender
  • ADD the apples, butternut squash, sage, nutmeg, bay leaf, salt, pepper, cayenne pepper, and vegetable broth and STIR well
  • ADD the coconut milk and STIR until blended
  • Bring mixture to a BOIL and then turn off heat
  • REMOVE sprig of sage and bay leaf and discard
  • PUREE the soup directly in the pot using an immersion blender* to your desired smoothness.** Be very careful when working with hot liquid.
    • *If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can use a regular blender. Transfer the soup in small batches to a countertop blender and puree each batch until smooth. Be careful when filling the blender and make sure to put the top on because hot liquid can really hurt you.
    • **I leave some chunks of apple in my soup, just because I like it that way.
  • ADD additional seasoning to taste
  • SERVE warm TOPPED with extra coconut milk and a SPRINKLE of smoked paprika
  • Frozen butternut squash works great
  • Just rough chop your apples and onions
  • Saute the onions and garlic
  • Combine all ingredients
  • Use an immersion blender
  • Coconut milk makes it creamy
  • Add a little coconut milk and smoked paprika to finish

Best Waffles Ever Gluten-Free Dairy-Free

For years I used different brands of store-bought gluten-free pancake mixes (some good, some not so good) but I wanted my waffles to be fluffier and tastier, so I decided to make them from scratch. These turned out to be the “best waffles ever,” so says the family. No one cares that they are gluten and dairy free, they just gobble them up. 

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Cooking time: 5 minutes per waffle (depends on iron)

Yield: 8 waffles

Ingredients

1-3/4 cups GLUTEN-FREE ALL PURPOSE FLOUR
2 teaspoons BAKING POWDER
1 teaspoon SALT
2 tablespoons COCONUT SUGAR
2 EGGS, beaten 
1-1/2 cups CASHEW MILK (or other plant-based alternative)
1/4 cup VEGETABLE OIL
1 taspoon VANILLA EXTRACT
Squirt of LEMON JUICE
Topping options:
   Fresh FRUIT, pure MAPLE SYRUP, and/or Vegan BUTTER

Directions

  • In a large mixing bowl, COMBINE flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar and mix.
  • Make a little hole in the center of the dry ingredients, crack the eggs in the center and BEAT well.
  • WHISK in the milk, oil, vanilla extract, and lemon juice until well blended. The more air, the fluffier the waffle.
  • Let the batter rest from at least 10 minutes. I make mine before everyone gets up and then refrigerate the batter until needed.
  • HEAT you waffle iron (If your iron is not non-stick you might need to use cooking spray).
  • Using a soup ladle, POUR the batter onto the waffle iron and close the lid. Waffle irons vary so the amount of batter you need will depend on the shape and size of the iron you have. I use a 1/2 cup measure with mine.
  • COOK until waffle iron stops steaming, My waffle iron has a light that tells me when it is done to a particular setting.
  • Using a sharp fork, carefully REMOVE the waffle from the iron.
    • If you are making a stack of waffles, preheat your oven on a low temperature and then pile each waffle on top of the other on an oven proof plate as you finish making them. Keep the stack in the warm oven until ready to serve.
  • TOP with vegan butter and maple syrup or try fresh fruit.
  • Storage: You can store them in the refrigerator for 3 or 4 days, but they get soggy. I make a double batch and store them in the FREEZER for up to 3 months for a quick breakfast.
Whisk all ingredients well and set aside to rest
Heat your iron
Brown your waffle to desired level
Top with vegan butter and pure maple syrup

Honey Garlic Shrimp with Red Quinoa & Vegetables

My goto protein for a quick 30-minute meal is shrimp. I buy bags of frozen shrimp whenever it’s on sale. Frozen shrimp defrost under cold water in less than 10 minutes. I like tail-on shrimp because it is fun to eat with your hands, but you can cut the tails off if you want to be fancy. There is no harm in using frozen vegetables to make this meal super quick and colorful.

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Cook time: 15 minutes

Servings: 4

Ingredients

1 pound of fresh or frozen SHRIMP, peeled & deveined  
     (26-30 large). I like tail on.
1 teaspoon GARLIC, minced
1/2 teaspoon GINGER, minced
1/4 cup HONEY
2 tablespoons Gluten-free SOY SAUCE
SALT & PEPPER to taste
2 tablespoons cooking OIL
1 cup dry RED QUINOA + 2 cups WATER = 3 cups cooked 
Vegetable mix (fresh or frozen): 
     2 cups BROCCOLI florets
     1 cup CAULIFLOWER florets, and
     1 cup CARROTS, sliced

Directions

  • PREPARE the shrimp
    • if fresh, peel and devein
    • if frozen, thaw (10 minutes under cold running water). Peel and devein, if not already done.
  • PREPARE the marinade (while shrimp is thawing)
    • WHISK together garlic, ginger, honey, and soy sauce
    • DIVIDE marinade and set aside 1/2 for later
  • MARINADE shrimp with 1/2 the sauce for 15 minutes
  • RINSE and COOK red quinoa according to package directions (should take about 15 minutes)
  • CHOP and SLICE vegetables of choice (I used broccoli, cauliflower, and carrots)
  • STEAM vegetables for 8 minutes or until crisply tender
  • ADD oil to your wok or skillet over medium heat
  • SEAR shrimp in the oil and cook for about 1 or 2 minutes per side
  • RUB the shrimp in the sauce that is left in the pan to coat
  • SERVE shrimp over red quinoa with a generous side of vegetable and DRIZZLE remaining sauce over all
  • I bet you have what you need in your pantry already
  • Peel & devein shrimp
  • Make the marinade
  • Sear the shrimp
  • Use red quinoa for color
  • Serve with lots of veggies

Butternut Squash Vegetable Soup

When it is cold outside there is nothing as comforting as a hot bowl of vegetable soup. Around here we just love soups of all kinds. I try to make soup on the weekends to carry us through a few chilly nights during the week. This hearty soup is full of seasonal goodness from kale and squash and packed with protein from chickpeas to make it a complete dinner. Try it alone or with a nice gluten-free/dairy-free grilled cheese sandwich.       

Preparation time: 30 minutes

Cooking time: 35 – 45 minutes

Servings: 8 as a main course 

Ingredients

4 tablespoons OLIVE OIL
2 large ONIONS, diced
6 CARROTS, diced
6 PARSNIPS, diced
4 stalks CELERY, diced (optional)
4 cloves GARLIC, minced
4 cups (1 whole) peeled BUTTERNUT SQUASH, in 1/2" cubes
4 cups KALE, coursely chopped
1/2 teaspoon ground ALLSPICE
1/4 teaspoon Kosher SALT (more to taste)
1/4 teaspoon CAYENNE PEPPER (more or less to taste)
4 sprigs fresh THYME
8 cups low-salt VEGETABLE BROTH
1 15-ounce can no-salt DICED TOMATOES
1 15-ounce can CHICKPEAS

Directions

  • PEEL and CUT the butternut squash into 1/2″ cubes (follow Simplyrecipes’ direction on how to peel and cut the butternut squash safely)
  • DICE onion, carrots, parsnips
  • MINCE garlic
  • WASH the kale and REMOVE it from the stem by laying the leaf upside down on a cutting board and cutting a V shape along both sides of the rib thereby cutting it free from the leaf.  CHOP the kale coarsely.
  • HEAT olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat
  • ADD onions and cook for about 5 minutes, until they begin to soften and turn translucent. STIR occasionally
  • ADD the garlic and cook for 1 more minute
  • ADD the butternut squash, carrots, parsnips, (celery if you want), allspice, salt, and cayenne pepper and stir until they begin to brown (about 10 minutes)
  • ADD the sprigs of thyme, broth, and tomatoes
  • Bring to a BOIL then reduce heat and SIMMER for 10 minutes (or until vegetables are tender)
  • ADD chickpeas and kale
  • SIMMER for another 10 minutes, until kale has wilted
  • REMOVE the sprigs of thyme before serving
  • STORE for 5 days in the refrigerator and 3 months in the freezer
  • Peel & cube butternut squash
  • Dice onions
  • Dice carrots & parsnips
  • Cook onions, carrots, parsnips & garlic
  • Add butternut squash and spices
  • Destem & chop kale
  • Add kale & chickpeas to the soup
  • Have a hearty bowl for lunch or dinner

Inspired by Ellie Krieger

Egg Yolk Insanely Fluffy Cookies – Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free

I was trying to figure out what to do with a bunch of leftover egg yolks yesterday after making meringue. Somehow I created this insanely fluffy egg yolk chocolate chip monster that is more like cake than a cookie. Naming a recipe is not easy. My first thought for a name was “Chocolate Chip Egg Yolk Cloud Cake Cookie with a Touch of Orange,” but I settled on something shorter.  I will let you be the judge of what to call yours.

Preparation Time: 15-20 minutes

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Servings: 60

Ingredients

1/2 cup Vegan BUTTER (1 Earth Balance Soy Free stick)
3/4 cup SUGAR
1/2 cup natural APPLE SAUCE
6 EGG YOLKS (or 4 egg yolks & 1 whole egg)
2-1/2 cups gluten-free ALL PURPOSE BAKING MIX (King Arthur)
1 teaspoon BAKING SODA
1 teaspoon VANILLA EXTRACT
1 teaspoon ORANGE EXTRACT (if you don't have it
     add another teaspoon of vanilla extract)
1 pinch SALT
3/4 Vegan MINI SEMI-SWEET CHOCOLATE CHIPS (Enjoy LIfe)
Parchment PAPER

Directions

  • PREHEAT oven to 350 degrees F
  • COVER 2 cookie sheets with parchment paper (or you can lightly grease them) 
  • CREAM the butter and sugar until fluffy
  • ADD the applesauce to the creamed mixture and BLEND well
  • SEPARATE egg whites from yolks. I use 3 bowls to do this: 1 bowl for the yolks, 1 bowl for the whites, and 1 bowl for the shells. After separating all 6 eggs, put the egg whites in the refrigerator (use them for something else, like my Dark Chocolate Meringue Cookies). 
  • BEAT the egg yolks and the extracts together
  • ADD the beaten egg yolk/extract mixture to the creamed mixture and BLEND well
  • In a separate bowl, WHISK together all the dry ingredients
  •  ADD the dry ingredients, a third at a time, to the creamed mixture and BLEND well.
  • ADD the mini chips to the batter and BLEND 
  • DROP the batter onto the parchment covered baking sheets in evenly spaced slightly rounded teaspoons of goo (for bigger cookies use a tablespoon instead)
  • Slightly FLATTEN the batter globs if you can, they won’t spread much
  • BAKE for 10 to 12 minutes. They will look undercooked and should be only slightly golden.
  • COOL on cookie sheets for a few minutes and then plate
  • STORE them in an airtight container for up to 1 week   
  • Cream the butter & sugar
  • Add the apple sauce, yolks, and extracts
  • Drop by tsp onto parchment and bake
  • Don’t overcook them, they will look underdone
  • Insanely Fluffy Deliciousness

Dark Chocolate Meringue Cookies – Gluten & Dairy Free

I love when the house smells like chocolate. These cookies are so chocolatey, crunchy and chewy at the same time, that no one notices that they contain no flour or butter. Did you know that making a meringue is easy? It is just really air, eggs whites, and sugar. Give these yummies a try next time you need a chocolate fix.  

Preparation Time: 20 – 30 minutes, depending on your equipment

Cooking Time: 18 minutes

Servings: Makes about 40 cookies 

Ingredients

4 EGG WHITES
1/2 teaspoon LEMON JUICE
1/2 teaspoon VANILLA
1/8 teaspoon SALT
1/4 cup SUGAR
12 ounces Vegan DARK CHOCOLATE MORSELS, melted
1/2 cup WALNUTS, chopped
Enough WALNUT halves to decorate cookies
1/2 cup DRIED CHERRIES, chopped
Parchment PAPER

Directions

  • PREHEAT oven to 325 degrees F
  • LINE 2 large cookie sheets with parchment paper
  • SEPARATE egg whites from yolks. I use 3 bowls to do this: 1 bowl for the yolks, 1 bowl for the whites, and 1 bowl for the shells. After separating all 4 eggs, put the egg yolks in the refrigerator (I use them to make my Egg Yolk Insanely Fluffy Cookies) and let the egg whites reach room temperature. 
  • MELT the chocolate morsels, either in a double boiler or microwave. I microwave mine on medium-high (50% power) for 1 minute, then stir, then repeat on medium-high for 20 to 30 seconds at a time, again and again until melted and smooth. Set aside to cool.  
  • COMBINE egg whites, lemon juice, vanilla and salt in a large, clean bowl. (A grease-free bowl is a must when making meringue. Also, make sure there is no yolk in your egg whites or it can keep them from fluffing nicely.)
  • Using an electric hand mixer, or a stand mixer, fitted with the whisk attachment, BEAT the mixture on low speed until foamy.
  • Increase mixer speed and GRADUALLY ADD sugar, a little at a time, until combined.
  • BEAT mixture on high until stiff peaks form. (Be patient this can take several minutes.)
  • Using a spatula, FOLD in the cooled chocolate, chopped walnuts, and the dried cherries. Make sure not to over combine as you don’t want to lose the airiness of the meringue.
  • FILL a pastry piping bag, or improvise with a large zip-lock plastic bag*, with half of the meringue mixture.
    • If using a plastic bag, cut a 3/4 inch hole in one corner.
    • If using a pastry bag, use a large star tip. 
  • PIPE cookies (about 2″ each) on to the prepared parchment covered cookie sheets.
  • REPEAT the process with the other half of the meringue.
  • TOP each cookie with a half of a walnut.
  • BAKE for 12 minutes and then check on them. The cookies are done when they are set and dry looking. This can take 15 to 20 minutes. 
  • REMOVE cookie sheets from the oven and allow the cookies to COOL completely on the sheets. 
  • STORE in an airtight container for 1 week. 
  • Melt the chocolate & cool
  • Blend the egg whites, lemon juice, vanilla, salt & sugar
  • Stiff peaks are the secret to meringue
  • Fold in the chocolate, walnuts, and cherries
  • Bake for 15 minutes
  • Let cool completely and ENJOY!

*Piping is not always easy for those of us with arthritis in our hands. My alternative is to drop the batter onto the parchment covered baking sheets in evenly spaced slightly rounded teaspoons of goo.  

Inspired by Alison Ashton who was inspired by Gail Simmons

Baked Zucchini Chips – Gluten-Free & Vegan

When I am out with friends at an Italian restaurant, I really miss having that tasty fried zucchini stick appetizer, so I  decided to make my own healthy gluten and dairy free version. The thinner you slice the zucchini rounds, the crisper they will be. These babies are baked, not fried, so eat as many as you would like. Try them with some warm marinara sauce and vegan parmesan cheese. MANGIA!

Preparation Time: 15-20 minutes

Cooking Time:  30 minutes

Servings: 4

Ingredients

2 large ZUCCHINI, sliced very thin
1/4 cup CASHEW MILK (or any alternative nut milk)
SEASONING
    1/2 cup gluten-free FLOUR (almond works nice)
    1/2 cup NUTRITIONAL YEAST
    1/2 teaspoon GARLIC POWDER
    1/4 teaspoon HIMILAYAN SALT
    Ground CAYENNE PEPPER to taste (1/4 teaspoon)
PARCHMENT paper
Paper TOWELS
Spray can of OLIVE OIL
Optional: Vegan PARMASAN CHEESE

Directions

  • PREHEAT oven to 425 degrees F
  • PREPARE ZUCCHINI
    • PLACE paper towels on a plate or flat baking pan
    • SLICE zucchini as thin as possible (1/4″ or less). You can leave the skin on.
    • LAY zucchini slices on the paper towels and SPRINKLE with salt
    • Let the slices sit for about 10 minutes to draw out excess liquid
    • PRESS rounds with a paper towel to BLOT up any excess liquid
    • PUT dried zucchini rounds in a bowl (call this Assembly Step #1)
  • While the zucchini is doing its thing to get out the excess water, in a gallon size plastic bag, PREPARE seasoning mix of flour, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, salt, and cayenne pepper to taste. (You can use a bowl but I find the ‘shake’ method covers nicely.) Set to the side. (Assembly Step #2)
  • POUR milk in a medium bowl (Assembly Step #3)
  • PREPARE a baking pan (I reuse the one I dried the zucchini on) with parchment paper (Assembly Step #4)
  • ASSEMBLE
    • MAKE AN ASSEMBLY LINE of all the ingredients starting with Step #1 the bowl of zucchini, Step #2 the bowl of milk, Step #3 the bag of seasoning, and finally Step #4 the baking pan
    • With a sharp fork (or a clean hand), DIP the dried zucchini in the milk
    • Then TOSS the milked zucchini into the seasoning bag and flip around until the slice is coated on both sides
    • With a sharp fork (or a clean dry hand) remove the zucchini slice from the seasoning bag and LAY it on the parchment paper in the baking pan
    • Repeat steps 1 through 4 until all the slices are coated.
    • LIGHTLY SPRAY each slice with olive oil, ensuring not to remove seasoning
  • BAKE for 15 minutes
  • TURN over each slice and LIGHTLY SPRAY again if needed
  • BAKE another 15 minutes until everything is golden brown. NOTE: cooking time will vary depending on how thin you sliced your zucchini rounds, so keep an eye on them so that they don’t get burnt. 
  • COOL the rounds on the parchment paper for a few minutes before removing
  • SERVE hot with your favorite tomato sauce and optionally sprinkle with vegan parmesan cheese
  • Note: Try to eat them all while hot because they got soggy when they cool
  • Start with fresh zucchini
  • Dip in cashaw milk
  • Shake in the seasoning bag
  • Spray with oil and cook at 325 degrees F
  • The thinner the crisper

Easy Garlic Tofu & Veggie Stir-Fry

Stir-fry is the quickest meal at our house, usually no more than 30 minutes. This recipe is healthy and flavorful while being simple to prepare. Make sure to use the extra or super firm variety of tofu and dry it well before cooking. I like extra firm tofu because It is easier to work with and has a more substantial texture in the dish. Use whatever veggies you have on hand: every time I make stir-fry it is a little different so don’t be afraid to improvise. Just remember that color is important especially in a stir-fry.  

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Servings: 4

Ingredients

SAUCE
   4 cloves GARLIC, minced
   1 tablespoon fresh GINGER ROOT, grated or minced
   1/4 teaspoon BLACK PEPPER
   1/4 teaspoon SALT
   3/4 cup VEGETABLE STOCK
   1/4 cup gluten-free SOY SAUCE
   1 teaspoon CORNSTARCH
   1 teaspoon WATER
    
STIR-FRY
   1 14-ounce block of extra firm TOFU, pre-cubed
   2 cups CARROTS, sliced
   4 cups BROCCOLI florets, chopped
   1 cup EDAMAME or chopped GREEN BEANS
   1 8-ounce can WATERCHESTNUTS, sliced
   2 tablespoons CORNSTARCH
   Pinch of SALT
   1 tablespoon cooking OIL
BASMATI RICE, per serving
Optional Toppings: toasted sesame seeds, seaweed, or green onions

Directions

  • PREPARE SAUCE: In a small bowl, WHISK garlic, ginger root, pepper, salt, vegetable stock, soy sauce, cornstarch, and water. Let it sit so that the flavors blend.
  • PREPARE tofu
    • If using prepackaged extra firm cubes, DRAIN water from the package. PAT dry with a paper towel. SPRINKLE with a pinch of salt.
    • If using a block of extra firm tofu, DRAIN water from the package. Line a plate or baking sheet with paper towels. Place tofu on top of the paper towels and then cover with another layer of paper towels. PRESS gently to remove extra moisture. CUT tofu into 1-inch cubes. SPRINKLE with salt.
    • In a large bowl, PLACE 2 tablespoons of cornstarch.
    • ADD dried tofu cubes to cornstarch and roll them around until they are evenly coated.
    • HEAT 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok (or large skillet) over medium heat. Roll oil around to make sure to coat bottom and sides.
    •  ADD coated tofu to wok and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until golden brown on one side. Do not stir for the first 2 minutes so that it can set. 
    • With a spatula, TURN and brown the tofu on the other side for another 2 to 3 minutes until it’s totally golden. STIR occasionally.
    • TRANSFER the tofu to a plate lined with a paper towel and set aside.
  • PREPARE VEGGIES 
    •  Return the wok to high HEAT until lightly smoking (add more oil if needed). ADD broccoli florets, carrots, edamame, and water chestnuts, STIR and TOSS veggies frequently.  Veggies should be cooked but still firm (anywhere from 2 to 4 minutes should do it). Note: You can even use frozen mixed Asian vegetables, just follow directions on the package to cook.
    • TRANSFER the veggies to a bowl and set aside.
  • COMBINE ALL INGREDIENTS
    •  Return the wok to high HEAT and ADD sauce mixture. STIR and COOK until sauce is boiling. 
    • ADD tofu and veggies to the wok and using a large spatula TURN to coat everything evenly.   Season to taste.
  • SERVE over rice. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds, seaweed, or green onions.
  • Prepare spice, garlic, & ginger
  • Boil the sauce
  • Prepare the tofu
  • Combine tofu, veggies, and sauce
  • Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds & seaweed over rice 

Avocado & Smoked Salmon Bagel – Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free

Breakfast is the most important meal in my opinion. You are just running on empty if you don’t fill the tank early in the day. I like to start my day with a savory gluten-free everything bagel,  topped with a mashed ripe avocado and Nova Lox. A fresh gluten-free bagel is a rare treat but you can find lots of gluten-free varieties in the freezer section. I have been known to eat this sandwich at lunch and sometimes even dinner.  

Preparation time: 10 minutes

Servings: 1

Ingredients

1 gluten-free EVERYTHING* BAGEL, halved and toasted
1/2 ripe AVOCADO, mashed
SALT & PEPPER to taste
2 slices SMOKED SALMON (aka Nova Lox)**
Optional Toppings
    1 slice of TOMATO
    1 slice of ONION

*The traditional New York Everything Bagel contains:
Poppy Seeds, Sesame Seeds, Black Sesame Seeds, 
Minced Dried Garlic, Minced Dried Onion, and Sea Salt

**There is a difference between lox and smoked salmon.
Lox is salt-cured and not smoked. Must people really want
smoked salmon, which is cured and smoked. Nova Lox, which 
originally came from the waters of Nova Scotia, is a type of
cold-smoked salmon that is preferred to salty 'belly' lox.

Directions

  • SLICE the bagel in half and TOAST
  • SLICE the avocado in half lengthwise, twist it, and remove the pit
  • MASH 1/2 the avocado and ADD salt and pepper to taste
  • SPREAD each half of the bagel with avocado
  • TOP each halve with a slice or 2 of smoked salmon 
  •  Optionally, top with tomato or onion slices
Everything Bagel with Avocado and Smoked Salmon

Grandma’s Potato Latkes – Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free

This Hanukkah treat is all about the frying. It represents the magic of the oil that lit the menorah (holy candelabra) for 8 days when there was only enough oil for 1 day.  There is no dairy in this dish and by using gluten-free matzo meal it’s just like my mother made. I remember grinding 10 pounds of potatoes by hand with a meat grinder, luckily today I use a food processor. For the no egg, Vegan version, check out my other recipe. 

Preparation Time: 20 -30 minutes

Cooking Time: 10 minutes a pancake/batch

Servings: 8


Ingredients

3 cups POTATOES, grated and drained well 
     About 8 medium Yukon Gold or Idaho
1 large ONION, grated 
2 EGGS, beaten
1 teaspoon SALT
1/4 teaspoon BLACK PEPPER
2 tablespoons gluten-free MATZO MEAL
1/2 cup Vegan BUTTER or other light oil for frying
Roll of PAPER TOWELS
APPLESAUCE or Vegan SOUR CREAM, optional

Directions

  • Using a fine or medium grater blade on your food processor,* GRATE the potatoes
  • DRAIN the grated potatoes really well before continuing. I put the grated potatoes in a big wire strainer over a large bowl. I then place a plate over the mixture and press down gently to express the potato starch. Get rid of as much liquid as you can. Warning: potato starch is really messy.
  • Using a medium grater blade on your food processor,* GRATE the onion (or finely chop if you prefer). Keep the onion juice and add to the mix for flavor.
  • In a large bowl, ADD the onion to the drained potatoes and mix well
  • BEAT the eggs and ADD to the onion/potato mixture
  • STIR in the seasonings and matzo meal
  • HEAT a small amount of the butter or oil in a large frying pan.  Let it get hot
  • SPOON (or I use my hands and make patties so I can squeeze out any excess liquid) the mixture into the frying pan and form pancakes. I usually get 6 to 8 pancakes in the pan at a time
  • FLATTEN the pancakes with a spatula
  • FRY each pancake for about 5 minutes over medium heat, then turn over until nicely browned on both sides. (I like my latkes dark and crisp, but my spouse likes them undercooked, so it’s up to your taste how long you fry)
  • Layer paper towels on a plate or cookie sheet and place the cooked latkes on the paper towels to DRAIN. I make so many that I build a tower of draining latkes in paper towel tiers
  • Add more butter or oil as required to fry the next batch
  • Serve hot with applesauce or vegan sour cream

*To make latkes without a food processor, just grate the potatoes manually, chop the onions as finely as possible (or grate them too) and follow the rest of the instructions above.

This recipe was inspired by Jennie Grossinger from “The Art Of Jewish Cooking,” personally autographed to my mother in 1958 by Jennie.

 
  • Peel potatoes
  • Slice before grating in food processor
  • Grate potatoes in food processor
  • Add grated onion, eggs, matzo meal and spices to the potatos
  • FRY, FRY, FRY!
  • Blot on paper towels to get the oil out.

Heavenly Dutch Apple Pie – Gluten-Free & Vegan

Who can resist the all-time holiday favorite, Apple Pie? My gluten and dairy-free version is a hybrid between a pie and a crisp. I use a store-bought gluten-free graham style crust for the bottom (because crusts are not my best skill and I am all about uncomplicated cooking) and a home-made crumble for the top. Try a warm slice of sweet apple pie, all moist and sticky, with a scoop of dairy-free Vanilla Ice Cream. Now that is my definition of heaven.  

Prep time: 15-20 minutes

Cook time: 45-55 minutes

Servings: 1 pie (6 or 8 slices)

Ingredients

1 Gluten-Free PIE CRUST (I use MI-DEL allegen safe graham style)
Crumble Topping
     3/4 cup All Purpose GLUTEN-FREE BAKING MIX (King Arthur Flour)*
     3/4 cup LIGHT BROWN SUGAR, packed
     1/4 cup granualated SUGAR
     2 teaspoons ground CINNAMON
     1/2 teaspoon ground NUTMEG
     1/4 teaspoon Kosher SALT
     1/2 cup (1 stick) Vegan BUTTER, chilled and cut into small pieces
Filling
     5 or 6 large APPLES, peeled, cored and sliced thin 
        For crisp try HoneyCrisp or PinkLady or tart try Granny Smith  
     1/2 cup granualted SUGAR 
        If using tart apples, you may need more sugar
     1 teaspoons ground CINNAMON
     1/4 teaspoon ground NUTMEG
     1/4 teaspoon ground GINGER     
     Pinch of SALT

*If using all purpose gluten-free flour instead of baking mix, 
you will need to add 1/2 teaspoon of XANTHAN GUM.

Directions

  • MAKE the TOPPING
    • In a medium bowl, WHISK baking mix, brown sugar, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Make sure to get the lumps out of the brown sugar
    • BLEND in chilled butter with a fork or pastry blender until you have a nice crumbly texture
    • REFRIGERATE the bowl for 10 minutes until firm
  • PREHEAT the oven to 375 degrees F
  • MAKE the FILLING
    • PEEL, CORE, and thinly SLICE apples
    • In a large bowl, COMBINE apples, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt
    • SET the bowl aside and let the juices combine while the topping is cooling
  • ASSEMBLE the pie
    • REMOVE the crumble from the refrigerator and BREAK UP any large clumps
    • PLACE the pie on a baking sheet to catch any overflow spills
    • DUMP the filling into the pie crust and MOUNT in the center. Make sure to pour all the juices in.
    • SPOON the crumble topping evenly over everything and don’t be afraid to use it all. PAT DOWN the crumbles gently with a fork (I use my hand) to make sure that it sticks to the filling.
  • BAKE
    • BAKE in preheated oven for 45 minutes, until the juices are bubbling out the sides and the crumble is evenly golden brown.
    • If using a regular pie crust, about 25 or 30 minutes into the bake, COVER the edges of the crust with foil to prevent burning. You don’t have to do this if you are using a graham style crust, as it doesn’t extend past the topping. 
    • Depending on your oven, you might need to ADD 5 to 10 minutes to the baking time.
    • REMOVE the pie from the oven and let COOL completely for at least 1 hour before serving. Fruit pies continue to thicken as they cool, so you really want to allow it the time it needs to give you a perfect slice. 
  • STORE the pie covered at room temperature for several days or freeze.
  •    SERVING SUGGESTIONS
    • Warm the pie in the microwave
    • Serve with your favorite dairy-free vanilla ice cream


  • Choose crisp or tart apples
  • Whisk crumble ingredients
  • Mix apple filling
  • Prepare apple and crumble to assemble
  • Mount filling high in center
  • Pat crumble down gently
  • Bake until bubbly and golden
  • Cool completely before slicing
  • Serve with Vegan Ice Cream

Happy Peanut Butter Cups – Gluten-Free & Vegan

Chocolate and peanut butter: two flavors that make me happy. I like to make these little happy treats for birthdays and other sweet times. The process isn’t too complicated and with only 3 ingredients, you can’t go wrong. Note that the quality of the peanut butter you choose will affect the overall taste of the dessert, so use good stuff (organic vs Skippy, for example).  I hope they make you happy too. 

Total time: about 40 minutes from prep to eat 

Servings: 10-12

Ingredients

7 ounces of Vegan CHOCOLATE MORSELS or SQUARES
4 tablespoons of COCONUT OIL
3/4 cup good quality PEANUT BUTTER
12 cupcake PAPER LINERS 

DIRECTIONS

  • PLACE 10 to 12 cupcake paper liners in a flat baking dish.
  • In a double boiler* on medium heat, MELT the chocolate with 2 tablespoons of coconut oil. STIR occasionally until completely combined. TURN off heat but leave on the stove to stay warm.
  • In a small bowl, MIX peanut butter and 2 tablespoons of coconut oil until well combined.
  • SPOON a small amount of the chocolate/coconut oil mixture into each cup; enough to cover the bottoms.
  • FREEZE the cups for a few minutes to set; 2 or 3 minutes should be fine.
  • Remove cups from freezer and DROP a small spoonful of peanut butter/coconut oil mixture on top of the hardened chocolate/coconut mixture in each cup.  FLATTENING with the back of a spoon. 
  • Then SPOON more chocolate/coconut oil mixture into each cup. If you want them to be like Reeses then put in enough chocolate/coconut oil mixture to cover all the peanut butter. I just drizzle chocolate on top for a pretty effect. 
  • FREEZE until ready to serve (at least 15 minutes to harden).
  • THAW to serve:  REMOVE the treats from the freezer about 30 minutes before you want to serve them. REMOVE the paper liners and place the naked treats in the refrigerator to thaw. If the treats get too soft they can lose their shape. If they do throw them back in the freezer for 5 minutes until they harden again.   

 *NOTE: Instead of a double boiler, I use a saucepan with about 1 inch of water in it with a heat safe bowl on top. Make sure that the bowl does not touch the water, as you want the chocolate to steam not boil. 

  • Melt the chocolate
  • Mix chocolate & coconut oil
  • Use good peanut butter
  • Set cups up and freeze for 5
  • Layer peanut butter and more chocolate
  • Freeze and ENJOY!!

Mom’s Outrageously Good Gluten-Free Vegan Mac & Cheese

To me, Macaroni and Cheese is the ultimate American comfort food. My gluten-free and dairy-free version of this classic, similar to the original 1794 recipe by Elizabeth Raffald, is based on a creamy white mornay sauce. The secret is in the roux so don’t let it burn.  I recommend you spice the dish up a notch because Vegan cheese can be bland. We love it with sweet peas.   

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Servings: 6 -8

Ingredients

1 16-ounce package of Gluten-free ELBOW MACARONI
2 cups Vegan CHEDDAR CHEESE (I use Daiya brand)
1 cup Vegan MOZZARELLA CHEESE (I use Daiya brand)
3 tablespoons Vegan BUTTER (I use Earth Balance brand soy-free sticks)
3 tablespoon Gluten-free FLOUR
2 cups CASHEW MILK (my favorite) or any milk alternative (Rice/Almond)
1/4 teaspoon BLACK PEPPER
1 teaspoon of GARLIC POWDER
1 teaspoon of ONION SALT
SALT to taste (warning Daiya cheese tastes salty to me so salt sparingly)
Gluten-free ITALIAN BREAD CRUMBS to cover the top
1/4 teaspoon PAPRIKA

Directions

  • PREHEAT oven to 350 degrees F.
  • COOK the macaroni a few minutes less than the instructions on the package tells you to (like 5 minutes instead of 8). The pasta will continue to cook when you bake it.
  • GREASE an 8X10 baking dish. I use a smaller baking dish then I think I need so that the recipe sets up nicely. 
  • DRAIN the pasta and place it in the greased baking dish.
  • MIX 1 cup of the Vegan cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of the Vegan mozzarella cheese into the pasta.
  • In a medium saucepan, MELT the butter over low heat. 
  • ADD the flour and WHISK continuously until gooey.
  • STIR in the milk*, pepper, garlic powder, and onion salt until mixture starts to boil and then stir another 1-2 minutes until it gets thick and bubbly. (*NOTE: Don’t let the sauce turn into a paste. You just want a thick liquid. Add more milk as needed.)
  • POUR the milk mixture over the cheese/pasta in the baking dish and mix thoroughly.
  • TOP the dish with the remaining cheeses, SPRINKLE with plenty of bread crumbs, and then DUST with paprika.
  • BAKE for 30 minutes. The top should be nicely browned and the cheese should be bubbly.
Mac & Cheese ready for the overn
Mac & Cheese ready for the oven

Spiced Pumpkin Muffins – Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free

Sometimes, I just crave a breakfast muffin. I like to heat them for 30 seconds in the microwave and then slather Vegan cream cheese on top. I tend to throw the kitchen sink of spices into these muffins so that the flavors of winter just explode in every bite. Adjust the spices and add-ins to match your mood.

Cooking Time: 45 minutes

Servings: 18

Ingredients

1-2/3 cup All Purpose GLUTEN-FREE FLOUR
1/2 teaspoon CINNAMON
1/2 teaspoon CLOVES
1/2 teaspoon NUTMEG
1/2 teaspoon GINGER
1/4 teaspoon BAKING POWDER
1 teaspoon BAKING SODA
1/2 teaspoon SALT
3/4 cup HONEY
2 EGGS (or Vegan egg replacer)
1/2 cup melted Vegan BUTTER (I use Earth Balance)*
1 15-ounce can of PUMPKIN PUREE (not Pumpkin Pie Mix)
1/4 cup cold WATER
1/4 cup dried CRANSBERRIES or RAISANS
1/4 cup chopped WALNUTS
1/4 cup dairy-free chocolate morsels (optional)
18 Paper Muffin LINERS

*If you are watching your fat, you can replace butter with APPLESAUCE.

Directions

  • PREHEAT oven to 325 degrees F.
  • LINE 2 12-cup muffin tins to handle about 18 muffin cups.
  •  In a large mixing bowl, MIX all dry ingredients together well.
  • In the same bowl, ADD all the rest of the ingredients and just throw it on top of the dry ingredients. STIR to combine. (I use a wooden spoon but I guess you could use an electric mixer.)
  • SPOON the batter into the lined muffin cups until each is about 3/4 filled.
  • BAKE for 40-45 minutes. (About 1/2 the time if you are making mini muffins).
  • TEST for doneness by inserting a toothpick (or another tester) into the center of a muffin. If it comes out with only a few moist crumbs on it, then they’re done. 
  • COOL for 10 minutes before removing them from the tins. If the muffins are stuck to the tin you can run a knife around them to loosen. 
Pumpkin happiness on the rise
Perfect blend of spices and pumpkin

Storage: You can store the muffins at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 5 days or freeze them for 3 months. 

Vegan 1 Pot Red Lentil Chili

The fantastic thing about this perfect protein-rich 1 pot winter dish is that even the die-hard meat-eaters in the family think it is the best chili they ever tasted (I never thought I would hear that!). This recipe couldn’t be simpler or more hearty and delicious.  There is no need to soak or precook the red lentils. Like with any good chili, I think it’s more flavorful the second day, so make a lot and refrigerate it.

Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes

Servings: 6 to 8

Ingredients

2 tablespoons Extra-Virgin OLIVE OIL (or Coconut)
1 medium yellow ONION, finely chopped
1 RED PEPPER, finely chopped
1 CELERY STALK, finely chopped (optional)
SALT and PEPPER, to taste
2 tablespoons GARLIC (4 cloves minced)
1 25-ounce can salt-free DICED TOMATOES (add your own salt to taste)
1/2 cup REFRIED BEANS
2 cups of WATER (more if needed)
1 1/2 tablespoons CHILI POWDER (more if you like it spicy)
1/4 teaspoon crushed RED PEPPER FLAKE (more if you like it spicy)
1 1/2 tablespoons ground CUMIN
1 teaspoon SMOKED PAPRIKA (this tastes different than regular)
3/4 cup dry RED LENTILS, rinsed, cleaned, and drained
1 15-ounce can BLACK BEANS, rinsed and drained
1 15-ounce can KIDNEY BEANS, rinsed and drained
1 15-ounce can CORN, drained
2 tablespoons MAPLE SYRUP (optional but brings our the favors nicely)
Serving Suggestions: 
     Top with Vegan CHEDDAR or MEXICAN MIX CHEESE, Shredded
     Top with SCALLIONS, chopped
     Serve with Gluten-Free Corn TORTILLA CHIPS

Directions

  • HEAT a large pot over medium heat. ADD oil.
  • SAUTE onion, red pepper, and celery for about 3 minutes stirring often. 
  • ADD garlic and STIR. ADD salt and pepper to taste. SAUTE another minute.
  • STIR IN diced tomatoes (with liquid), refried beans, and water. 
  • ADD spices: chili powder, red pepper flakes, cumin, smoked paprika. STIR completely to combine.
  • Bring to a BOIL over medium heat.
  • When boiling, ADD lentils, COVER, and lower to a SIMMER for about 15 minutes. ADD more water if the mixture is looking too think or dry. You want the lentils to cook completely and to get tender. STIR occasionally so that the lentils don’t stick to the bottom of the pot. 
  • ADD black beans, kidney beans, corn and more spices for your taste and maple syrup. STIR to combine.
  • SIMMER (not boiling) over medium heat so that you see little bubbles and then reduce to low for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally to keep from sticking.   
  • COOL slightly and then SPRINKLE Vegan cheese on top before serving.
  • SCOOP with your favorite tortilla chips. 

NOTE: This chili can last at least a week in your refigerator and freezes easily for several months. Just thaw and reheat on the stove. 

Pear & Brussels Sprouts Salad

With all the Romaine lettuce contamination scares in the United States, I decided to use Brussels sprouts as an alternative salad base. The maple-balsamic dressing and the pears make this salad so sweet and delicious that we literally fought over the bowl. I never thought I could learn to love those little ‘heads’ so much.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Servings: 6

Ingredients

Salad
    1 pound of BRUSSELS SPROUTS, pulled and sliced
    2 ripe PEARS, chopped
    1/4 cup sweetened dried cranberries (CRasians)
    1/4 cup PECANS, coursely chopped
Dressing
    2 tablespoons of extra-virgin OLIVE OIL
    1 tablespoon of MAPLE SYRUP
    1-1/2 tablespoons of BALSAMIC VINEGAR
    1 teaspoon DIJON MUSTARD
    1/4 teaspoon SALT 
    1/8 teaspoon PEPPER
    1/4 clove GARLIC, optional

Directions

  • In a medium bowl, prepare the salad dressing by WHISKING together the oil, maple syrup, vinegar, and mustard and then salt and pepper to taste. Add garlic if you want a little extra kick.
  • CLEAN the Brussel sprouts by cutting off the stalk end and then pull off and discard the tough outer leaves. SLICE the Brussels sprouts as thin as you like with a very sharp knife. I mix both ripped leaves and thinly sliced pieces for a nice texture. 
  • In a large bowl, MIX Brussel sprouts, pears, cranberries, and pecans.
  • POUR salad dressing over mixture and TOSS salad.

This recipe was inspired by “Shredded Brussels Sprouts Salad with Maple-Balsamic Vinaigrette” from Martina’s Kitchen Mix by Martina McBride.

Vegan Potato Latkes

By replacing eggs with tofu, these amazing potato latkes (pancakes) are the perfect fried dish to celebrate Hanukkah. I use two frying pans to keep the production line going. People start stealing them from the plate before I ever get them to the table. 

Preparation Time: 30 minutes

Cooking Time: 10 minutes a pancake/batch

Servings: 6-8

Ingredients

3 cups POTATOES (about 8 medium Yukon Gold or Idaho), drained well
1/2 pound firm TOFU, drained well
1 large ONION
1 teaspoon SALT
1/4 teaspoon BLACK PEPPER
1 clove GARLIC, optional
2 tablespoons gluten-free MATZO MEAL
1/2 cup Vegan BUTTER or other light oil for frying
Roll of PAPER TOWELS
APPLESAUCE or Vegan SOUR CREAM, optional

Directions

  • Using a fine or medium grater blade on your food processor,* GRATE the potatoes
  • DRAIN the grated potatoes really well before continuing. I put the grated potatoes in a big wire strainer over a large bowl. I then place a plate over the mixture and press down gently to express the potato starch
  • Using a medium grater blade on your food processor,* GRATE the onion (or finely chop if you prefer)
  • In a large bowl, ADD the onion to the drained potatoes and mix well
  • PROCESS or MASH the tofu until it is creamy with a few lumps
  • ADD the tofu to the onion/potato mixture
  • STIR in the seasonings and matzo meal
  • HEAT a small amount of the butter or oil in a large frying pan.  Let it get hot
  • SPOON (or I use my hands and make patties) the mixture into the frying pan and form pancakes. I usually get 6 to 8 pancakes in the pan at a time
  • FLATTEN the pancakes with a spatula
  • FRY each pancake for about 5 minutes over medium heat, then turn over until nicely browned on both sides. (I like my latkes dark and crisp, but my spouse likes them undercooked, so it’s up to your taste how long you fry) 
  • Layer paper towels on a plate or cookie sheet and place the cooked latkes on the paper towels to DRAIN. I make so many that I build a tower of draining latkes in paper towel tiers
  • Add more butter or oil as required to fry the next batch
  • Serve hot with applesauce or vegan sour cream

*To make latkes without a food processor, just grate the potatoes manually, chop the onions as finely as possible (or grate them too), mash the tofu, and follow the rest of the instructions above.

This recipe was inspired by Jennie Grossinger from “The Art Of Jewish Cooking,” personally autographed to my mother in 1958 by Jennie.

  • Potato Latkes Crisp & Hot