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Pan-Seared Halloumi with Cherry Pepper Glaze

Pan-Seared Halloumi with Cherry Pepper Glaze

Pan-Seared Halloumi with Cherry Pepper Glaze

 

1 T. extra-virgin olive oil

8 ounces halloumi cheese, sliced crosswise !4 inch thick

3 T. honey

3 T. minced jarred hot cherry peppers

2 T. lemon juice

1 T. chopped fresh mint

 

Heat oil in 10-inch nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Arrange halloumi in even layer in skillet and cook, flipping frequently, until deeply browned and crisp on both sides, about 6 minutes. Transfer cheese to cutting board. Wipe out skillet with paper towel. Add honey, cherry peppers, and lemon juice to now-empty skillet. Cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, until syrupy, about 1 minute. While glaze cooks, cut cheese into bite-size pieces. Add cheese back to skillet and increase heat to medium. Continue to cook, stirring gently, until glaze coats cheese, 4 to 6 minutes longer. Transfer to platter, sprinkle with mint, and serve.

Santorini Tomato Fritters

Santorini Tomato Fritters

KATY BESKOW’S Santorini Tomato Fritters

 

3 T. plain (all-purpose) flour

1 tsp baking powder

1 tsp dried oregano

300g (10oz) cherry tomatoes, roughly chopped

handful of flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped

pinch of sea salt and black pepper

4 T. sunflower oil

Method

 

In a mixing bowl, stir together the flour, baking powder and dried oregano. Stir in the tomatoes and flat-leaf parsley, then season with sea salt and black pepper. Add 50ml (2fl oz) cold water and stir to form a thick batter. Heat the oil in a frying pan until hot. Add in T. of the batter (up to four at a time, to avoid the fritters touching and merging) and cook for 1 minute until golden and crisp, then carefully flip the fritters and cook on the other side. Drain on paper towels or a clean dish towel, then repeat the cooking process until all of the batter has been used. Serve hot.

Green Olives with Spicy Breadcrumbs

Green Olives with Spicy Breadcrumbs

Green Olives with Spicy Breadcrumbs

 

1/4 C. extra virgin olive oil

2 T. fresh chopped parsley

1 garlic clove minced

Pinch crushed pepper

2 C. green olives such as Sicilian, drained, rinsed and patted dry

1 T. red or white vinegar

1 C. plain dry breadcrumbs.

 

IN a medium skillet over medium heat, add the oil with the parsley, garlic, red pepper and cook until fragrant. Add the olives to the pan with the vinegar and cook while stirring until the olives are warm and the vinegar evaporated, about three minutes. With a slotted spoon, transfer the olives to a serving bowl.

Add the breadcrumbs to the pan and cook while stirring constantly, until evenly toasted, about three minutes. Toss the olives with the breadcrumbs and serve warm.

Crispy Lemon Parmesan Zucchini Chips with Basil Aioli

Crispy Lemon Parmesan Zucchini Chips with Basil Aioli

Crispy Lemon Parmesan Zucchini Chips with Basil Aioli

 

2 medium zucchini, sliced 1/4 inch thick

1/2 C. flour

2 eggs, lightly beaten

2 C. panko breadcrumbs

1/2 C. parmigiano reggiano (parmesan), grated

1 T. lemon zest

salt and pepper to taste

1/2 C. mayonnaise

1/4 C. basil

 

Dredge the zucchini slices in flour, dip them in the egg, and coat them in the mixture of the breadcrumb, parmesan, lemon zest, salt and pepper. Fry the coated zucchini slices in oil until lightly golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side or place them on a wire rack on a baking pan, spray lightly with oil and bake in a preheated 425F/220C oven until lightly golden brown, about 15-20 minutes. Puree the mayonnaise and basil and serve with the zucchini chips.

Pan-Fried Feta with Thyme and Greek Marinated Olives

Pan-Fried Feta with Thyme and Greek Marinated Olives

Pan-Fried Feta with Thyme and Greek Marinated Olives

 

Greek Marinated Olives

1/2 C. extra-virgin olive oil

6 garlic cloves

4 bay leaves

2 sprigs fresh thyme

1/2 tsp. dried fennel seeds

Zest of 1 lemon, peeled in strips with a vegetable peeler

2 C. mixed olives (I like kalamata and green olives)

Crushed red pepper flakes

 

1 large egg, beaten

1/3 C. panko bread crumbs

1 (10- to 12-ounce) block feta cheese

2 T. extra-virgin olive oil

2 sprigs fresh thyme

Freshly ground black pepper

Crushed red pepper flakes

Grilled naan, heirloom tomatoes, and fresh basil leaves, for serving

 

Marinate the olives. In a small saucepan, combine the olive oil, garlic, bay leaves, thyme, and fennel. Bring the oil to a simmer over medium-low heat, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes, until fragrant. Remove the pan from the heat. Stir in the lemon zest and olives. Season with red pepper flakes. (The olives can be prepared up to 1 week in advance and stored in a glass jar in the fridge.) Make the feta. Pour the beaten egg into a shallow medium bowl. Put the panko in a separate shallow medium bowl. Dip the block of feta in the egg, coating all sides completely, then remove and allow any excess egg to drip off. Place the block of feta in the panko, pressing the crumbs gently to adhere. In a medium skillet, heat the olive oil over medium. When it shimmers, add the feta and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, or until golden. Transfer the feta to a serving platter and garnish with fresh thyme, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Serve warm, with the marinated olives, naan, and tomatoes alongside.

Shrimp Fritters with Chili-Lime Dipping Sauce

Shrimp Fritters with Chili-Lime Dipping Sauce

Shrimp Fritters with Chili-Lime Dipping Sauce

 

3 red Fresno, or jalapeno chiles

1 red bell pepper

1 T. firmly packed brown sugar

1 T. champagne vinegar

3/4 tsp. salt

Freshly ground pepper

1 cup canola oil

Juice of 1 lime

 

Canola oil, for deep-frying

156 pounds peeled and deveined shrimp, chopped

1 small yellow onion, finely minced

1 large red bell pepper, seeded and finely minced

1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

2 large eggs

5 T. seltzer

5 T. freshly squeezed lime juice

1 T. Salt

Pepper

1 ½ C. Pastry Flour

 

TO MAKE THE DIPPING SAUCE, place the chiles and the bell pepper in a dry cast-iron frying pan over high heat. Cook, turning as needed, for about 15 minutes, or until the skin is blackened and blistered on all sides. Or, blacken and blister the chiles and pepper under a preheated broiler, watching carefully to avoid burning the flesh. Transfer the blackened chiles and pepper to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let stand for 10 minutes. Remove from the bowl and let cool to room temperature. Peel the bell pepper, cut in half, and discard the seeds. Reserve half of the pepper for another use. Peel the chiles but do not seed. Chop the chiles and pepper coarsely. In a blender, combine chopped chiles and pepper, sugar, vinegar, salt, and a few grinds of pepper and process until smooth. With the blender running, add the oil slowly, about 1 T. at a time, and process until emulsified. Then add the lime juice and process until blended. Taste and adjust the seasoning. TO MAKE THE FRITTERS, pour the oil to a depth of 3 to 3½ inches into a deep fryer or deep, heavy-bottomed pot and heat to 375°F. While the oil is heating, in a bowl, combine the shrimp, onion, bell pepper, cilantro, eggs, seltzer, lime juice, salt, and a few grinds of pepper and stir until well combined. Add the flour and mix well. When the oil is ready, work in batches, cooking 6 to 8 fritters at a time, to avoid crowding. To form each fritter, drop 1 T. of the batter into the hot oil. Fry the fritters for 2 to 3 minutes, or until golden brown. Using a slotted spoon, transfer to paper towels to drain. Keep warm while you fry the remaining fritters. Serve immediately on a platter or individual plates with the dipping sauce on the side.

Greek Meatballs in Tomato Sauce

Greek Meatballs in Tomato Sauce

Greek Meatballs in Tomato Sauce

These Greek cigar-shaped meatballs are known as soutzoukakia smyrneika. The spicing reflects the dish’s origins in Smyrna, a former Greek settlement and now the Turkish city of Izmir. Soutzoukakia often are made with beef or a combination of beef and pork, but we preferred the subtle sweetness and tender texture of all-pork meatballs. An instant thermometer is the best way to check for doneness; alternatively, cut open a meatball—if done, the center should no longer be pink. Soutzoukakia often is served with tiganites patates (potatoes fried in olive oil), but roasted potatoes, crusty bread or a rice or orzo pilaf also are delicious accompaniments.

 

½ cup panko breadcrumbs

1 large egg

1 pound ground pork

2 tsp. ground cumin

3 medium garlic cloves, 2 finely grated, 1 thinly sliced

¾ tsp. red pepper flakes, divided

2 T. finely chopped fresh oregano, divided

Kosher salt and ground black pepper

2 T. extra-virgin olive oil, plus more to serve

128-ounce can crushed tomatoes

½ tsp. ground cinnamon

2 tsp. honey

 

In a medium bowl, combine the panko, egg and ½ cup water, then mix until homogeneous. Let stand for 5 minutes to allow the panko to hydrate. Add the pork, cumin, the grated garlic, ½ tsp. pepper flakes, 1 T. oregano, 1 tsp. salt and ½ tsp. black pepper, then mix well. Divide into 12 portions (each about a scant ¼ cup), then shape each into a 2½-inch-long cigar shape. In a 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium-high, heat 2 T. of oil until shimmering. Add the meatballs and cook without disturbing until browned on the bottoms, 2 to 3 minutes. Using tongs, flip the meatballs and cook until browned on the second sides, another 2 to 3 minutes. Remove the skillet from the heat, transfer the meatballs to a paper towel–lined plate and set aside. Return the skillet to medium-high and add the sliced garlic. Cook, stirring, until fragrant and starting to brown, 1 to 2 minutes. Add the remaining ¼ tsp. pepper flakes and cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in the tomatoes, cinnamon, honey, ½ tsp. salt and ¼ tsp. black pepper, then bring to a simmer. Place the meatballs in the pan and return to a simmer. Cover and simmer, undisturbed, until the centers of the meatballs reach 160°F, 12 to 14 minutes. Transfer the meatballs and sauce to a serving dish. Drizzle with additional oil and sprinkle with the remaining 1 T. oregano.

Spanish Omelet with Pickled Cherry Tomatoes

Spanish Omelet with Pickled Cherry Tomatoes

Spanish Omelet with Pickled Cherry Tomatoes

 

For the pickled cherry tomatoes

1 red onion, thinly sliced

1/4 cup (60 mL) of water or tomato juice

1/4 cup (60 mL) of cider vinegar

2 tablespoons (30 mL) of white sugar

1 tablespoon (15 mL) of coriander seeds

1 tablespoon (15 mL) of fennel seeds

1 teaspoon (5 mL) of mustard seeds

1/4 teaspoon (1 mL) of your favorite hot sauce

1 pint (500 mL) of cherry tomatoes, halved

2 green onions, thinly sliced

 

For the potato omelet

1/2 cup (125 mL) of olive oil

1 large onion, sliced

8 garlic cloves, thinly sliced

4 baking potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced

6 to 8 eggs

1 teaspoon (5 mL) of dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon (2 mL) of salt

Lots of freshly ground pepper

4 ounces (115 g) of feta cheese, crumbled (1 cup/250 mL or so)

 

Begin with the pickled tomatoes. Measure the onion, water, vinegar, sugar, coriander seeds, fennel seeds, mustard seeds and hot sauce into a medium saucepan. Bring to a slow, steady simmer. Continue simmering until the mixture is reduced by half, 10 minutes or so. Remove from the heat and stir in the tomatoes and green onions. Let rest for at least 10 minutes, even overnight. For the omelet, heat a large nonstick sauté pan over medium-high heat. Swirl in the oil. Add the onions and garlic, briefly sautéing to soften the onions. Add the potatoes and sauté a few minutes more. Cover tightly and reduce the heat. Cook, sizzling slightly, shaking the works two or three times, until the potatoes are tender and lightly browned, 20 minutes or so. Whisk the eggs with the oregano, salt and pepper. Gently stir in the feta cheese. Add the potato mixture to the bowl, stir to thoroughly coat the works and return to the sauté pan. Cover tightly and cook until firm but still tender, 5 or 6 minutes. Loosen the omelet from the pan with a rubber spatula. With a strong grip and a few folded kitchen towels or a potholder, invert the pan, releasing the omelet onto the lid (if it’s flat) or a large plate. Carefully slide it back into the pan and cook for another few minutes, firming and lightly browning the bottom. Slice into wedges in the pan using the rubber spatula. Serve and share with spoonfuls of the pickled tomatoes.

Carciofi Fritti (Tuscan Fried Baby Artichokes

Carciofi Fritti (Tuscan Fried Baby Artichokes

Carciofi Fritti (Tuscan Fried Baby Artichokes)

small baby artichokes, peeled and trimmed as in video

1 extra large egg

1/4-1/2 cup flour

salt

oil for frying

Prepare the artichokes as seen in the video, tearing off the tough outer leaves. Cut off the tough top of the leaves. Trim off the bottom stem and the bottom of the heart. Place in water with lemon juice or white wine vinegar. Drain the artichokes and cut into smaller pieces, 1/2’s or 1/4’s if they are larger. Place in a bowl. Add one whole egg, and mix to blend well with the artichokes and a pinch of salt. Add enough flour to create a rough “Batter” which will stick on the artichokes. There should be no extra liquid. It will probably not seem like a lot of batter. Fry in hot oil, not touching each other, until golden. Salt when done.

 

Mussels in Green Olive Sauce

Mussels in Green Olive Sauce

Mussels in Green Olive Sauce

1 C. green olives, pitted

2 T. capers, drained and rinsed

1/2 bunch fresh parsley leaves

1/2 bunch fresh cilantro leaves

3 T. extra-virgin olive oil

1 T. sherry vinegar

1/2 lemon, juiced

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

4 pounds mussels, cleaned and trimmed

2 T. extra-virgin olive oil

2 shallots, chopped

1 head garlic, cut in 1/2

1 red chile, cut in 1/2

1/2 lemon

8 sprigs fresh thyme

1 C. dry white wine

 

For the Green Olive Sauce, put everything into a food processor and process until almost smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Set aside.  Rinse the mussels and check them over; discard any that do not close when tapped. In a large heavy bottomed pot with a tight-fitting lid, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shallots, garlic, chile, lemon, and thyme and cook for about 5 minutes. Add the mussels and give them a stir. Pour in the white wine, cover, and cook, shaking the pot occasionally, until all the mussels have opened, about 10 minutes. Stir in the Green Olive Sauce, pour the mussels onto a platter, and serve.

Mussels in Green Sauce (Mejillones en Salsa Verde Madrid)

Mussels in Green Sauce (Mejillones en Salsa Verde Madrid)

Mussels in Green Sauce (Mejillones en Salsa Verde Madrid)

4 dozen large green mussels

1 C. butter

2 T. flour

1⁄2 C. dry white wine

1⁄2 C. fresh parsley

6 fresh garlic cloves

1 large shallot

1⁄8 C. lemon juice

1⁄8 tsp. salt

1⁄8 tsp. ground black pepper

1⁄2 C. clam juice

Scrub the mussels under the faucet and remove the beards, and then set aside. In a 6 quart saucepot place butter, flour, wine, lemon juice and clam juice and bring to a boil over high heat. Add the mussels and return to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer covered 3 minutes or until mussels are opened. With a slotted spoon remove mussels to 2 or 4 deep serving bowls or dishes and set aside. Place the liquid into a blender or food processor and add the parsley, garlic cloves, shallot, salt and pepper and blend well. Pour the sauce over the mussels and serve with a French or Italian bread to sop up the wonderful sauce.

Endive, Piquillo Pepper & Chorizo Salad

Endive, Piquillo Pepper & Chorizo Salad

Endive, piquillo pepper & chorizo salad

3 oz. cooking chorizo, sliced or crumbled

6 piquillo peppers from a jar, drained and cut into thin strips

2 garlic cloves, finely chopped

12 Kalamata style black olives, pitted and halved

1 T. chopped flat leaf parsley

2 T. dry sherry

3 white endives

1 T. sherry vinegar

3 T. extra virgin olive oil

salt and freshly ground black pepper

Cook the chorizo in a cold frying pan over medium heat until the fat has rendered and it starts browning slightly. Add the peppers, garlic, olives, and parsley and cook together for a few minutes. Add the dry sherry and cook until it has reduced, about 3 to 4 minutes. Remove from the heat and set aside. Remove 8 to 10 of the outer layers of the endives and set aside. Chop the rest of the endives into 1/2 inch strips, discarding the woody ends, and mix with the cooked chorizo and peppers. Make the dressing by mixing the vinegar and oil together, season with salt and pepper to taste; remember the chorizo is quite salty. To finish off the dish, arrange the whole endive leaves all around a serving platter and place the pepper, chorizo, and endive mixture in the center. Drizzle with the dressing and serve.

Cannellini Beans and Fougasse

Cannellini Beans and Fougasse

Cannellini Beans and Fougasse

 

½  of 410g can cannellini beans (14oz. can)

½ – 1 clove garlic, peeled

A little virgin olive oil

A little white wine vinegar

Small bunch of summer savory

Few slices of Fougasse (a French bread)

 

Using a pestle and mortar or a fork, mash a large a large handful of canned cannellini beans, add a little chopped garlic, and drizzle in extra virgin olive oil and a splash of white wine vinegar. Mix well with a small bunch of chopped summer savory leaves.  Serve with griddled slices of fougasse.

Spanish White Bean Salad

Spanish White Bean Salad

Spanish White Bean Salad

400 grams cannellini beans (drained and rinsed)

2 red pepper (skinned, in oil, cut into long strips)

2 spring onions (sliced)

1 T. capers (rinsed)

2 T. white wine vinegar

1 T. extra-virgin olive oil

salt (to taste)

black pepper (to taste)

 

Put all the ingredients in a bowl and mix gently together.  Serve as a tapas, side dish or even as a main meal.

Clams in Green Sauce (Almejas en Salsa Verde)

Clams in Green Sauce (Almejas en Salsa Verde)

Clams in Green Sauce (Almejas en Salsa Verde)

18-20 Hard Shell Clams, scrubbed, steamed open, and cooking liquid strained and reserved

2 cloves Garlic, chopped

1 T. Olive Oil

1 T. Flour

¼ C. freshly shelled Peas

1-3 T. finely chopped Parsley

Salt & Pepper

Lemons, quartered

 

In deep skillet or cazuela, sauté garlic in oil until golden brown.  Stir in flour, then add reserved clam cooking liquid, peas, parsley, and salt and pepper to taste.  Bring to boil, reduce heat, add clams and summer 5 minutes.  Serve hot, accompanied by lemons.

Prosciutto Caprese Parcels

Prosciutto Caprese Parcels

Simple & Pretty

Prosciutto Caprese Parcels

 

10 Slices Prosciutto

2 balls Fresh Mozzarella (125 gr each)

10 Sun-dried Tomatoes

20 Fresh Basil Leaves

 

Slice each mozzarella ball into 10 slices. Cut your sun-dried tomatoes in half. Half the prosciutto slices lengthways. Put a piece each of mozzarella, sun-dried tomato and a basil leaf at the end of each strip of prosciutto and roll it up

Marinated Mushrooms

Marinated Mushrooms

Marinated Mushrooms

 

Cooking the mushrooms over relatively high heat encourages them to quickly

release liquid, which can then be reduced to a concentrated, flavorful glaze.

 

1/4 C. extra-virgin olive oil
1/8 tsp. red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper

1 lb. cremini or white mushrooms, trimmed, left whole if small, halved if medium, quartered if large

3 tsp. lemon juice
1 garlic clove, sliced very thin
1 large shallot, minced
1/4 small red bell pepper, chopped fine

1 tsp. minced fresh thyme or 1 tsp. chopped fresh parsley or basil

 

Heat 3 tsp. oil, pepper flakes, and ‘h tsp. salt in 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add mushrooms and 2 tsp. lemon juice. Cook, stirring frequently, until mushrooms release moisture, moisture evaporates, and mushrooms have browned around edges, about 10 minutes. Spread mushrooms in single layer on large plate or rimmed baking sheet; cool to room temperature, about 20 minutes. When cooled, transfer mushrooms to medium bowl, leaving behind any juices. Stir garlic, shallot, and bell pepper into mushrooms, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate at least 6 or up to 24 hours. Allow mushrooms to stand at room temperature about 1 hour. Stir in remaining 1 tsp. olive oil, 1 tsp. lemon juice, and thyme and season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Spanish-Style Garlic Shrimp

Spanish-Style Garlic Shrimp

Spanish-Style Garlic Shrimp (Tapas)

Serve shrimp with crusty bread for dipping in the richly flavored olive oil. The dish can be served directly from the skillet (make sure to use a trivet) or, for a sizzling effect, transferred to an 8-inch cast iron skillet that’s been heated for 2 minutes over medium-high heat. We prefer the slightly sweet flavor of dried chiles in this recipe, but tsp. sweet paprika can be substituted. If sherry vinegar is unavailable, use 2 tsp. dry sherry and 1 tsp. white vinegar.

 

14 garlic cloves, peeled
1 lb. large shrimp (31 to 40 per lb.), peeled, deveined, and tails removed
1/2 C. olive oil
1/2 tsp. salt
1 bay leaf

1 (2-inch) piece mild dried chile, such as New Mexican, roughly broken, seeds included

1 1/2 tsp. sherry vinegar
1 tsp. chopped fresh parsley

 

Mince 2 garlic cloves and toss with shrimp, 2 tsp. olive oil, and salt in medium bowl. Let shrimp marinate at room temperature for 30 minutes. Meanwhile, using flat side of chef’s knife, smash 4 garlic cloves. Heat smashed garlic with remaining 6 tsp. olive oil in 12-inch skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until garlic is light golden brown, 4 to 7 minutes. Remove pan from heat and allow oil to cool to room temperature. Using slotted spoon, remove smashed garlic from skillet and discard. Thinly slice remaining 8 garlic cloves. Return skillet to low heat and add sliced garlic, bay leaf, and chile. Cook, stirring occasionally, until garlic is tender but not browned, 4 to 7 minutes. (If garlic has not begun to sizzle after 3 minutes, increase heat to medium-low.) Increase heat to medium-low; add shrimp with marinade to pan in single layer. Cook shrimp, undisturbed, until oil starts to gently bubble, about 2 minutes. Using tongs, flip shrimp and continue to cook until almost cooked through, about 2 minutes longer. Increase heat to high and add sherry vinegar and parsley. Cook, stirring constantly, until shrimp are cooked through and oil is bubbling vigorously, 15 to 20 seconds. Serve immediately.

 

Teppanyaki Mustard Dipping Sauce

This dipping sauce gets its zesty bite from mustard, ginger, and horseradish.

3 tsp. mayonnaise

2 tsp. Dijon mustard

2 tsp. lime juice

2 tsp. prepared horseradish

2 tsp. soy sauce

1 tsp. grated fresh ginger

Whisk all ingredients together in medium bowl.

 

Ginger-Soy Dipping Sauce

¼ C. Soy Sauce

3 tsp. Mirin

1 tsp. Sugar

1 tsp. Toasted Sesame Oil

1 Scallion, sliced thin

2 tsp. Grated fresh Ginger

1 clove Garlic, minced

Whisk all ingredients together in medium bowl.

Sopa Castellana or Sopa de Ajo con Huevos (Castilian Soup)

Sopa Castellana or Sopa de Ajo con Huevos (Castilian Soup)

Sopa Castellana or Sopa de Ajo con Huevos (Castilian Soup)

1/2 C. olive oil

2 ½ oz day old bread, sliced in 1 ½ cubes (Hogaza or whole grain bread)

3 cloves garlic

1 1/2 ounces Spanish serrano ham or prosciutto, diced

½ T. onion, chopped

½ tsp Spanish paprika

3 ¼ C. of chicken stock, boiling hot

1 T. Tomato Paste

1 sprig fresh parsley, chopped

3 eggs

Salt

 

Preheat oven to 350º. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and add bread cubes when hot.

Fry until golden brown. Drain on paper towels. Remove all but 2 T. of oil and fry garlic, chopped until golden but not too crunchy; remove and reserve, leaving oil in the pan.  Add the ham to the pan and fry a bit until crunchy edges.  Now add the onions and cook on medium low stirring occasionally until the onions are soft. Crush fried garlic in mortar with paprika. Place the fried bread in an oven proof casserole pan that can be used on the stove and pour onion mixture over the top. Pour in the boiling chicken stock.  Stir in tomato paste, add parsley and the garlic, season with salt, and stir well. Bring to a boil and then lower heat and simmer for 5 minutes. Transfer the casserole to the oven and bake for 7 minutes until a crust forms. Remove from the oven and crack 3 eggs onto crust. Return to the oven and bake until the whites are just set. Serve immediately.

Brussels Sprout Mezze

Brussels Sprout Mezze

Brussels Sprout Mezze

2 T. EVOO

4 cloves Garlic, sliced

1 small Onion, chopped

1 oz. Sun-Dried Tomatoes, cut into fine strips

2 ½ C. chopped Tomatoes

1 lb. Brussels Sprouts, outer leaves removed and stems trimmed

Salt, Sugar, and Pepper to taste

1 T. Pesto

Parmesan for serving

 

Heat oil in saucepan with a close-fitting lid over moderate heat. Slowly fry garlic, onion and sun-dried tomato. When softened, add chopped tomatoes. Cook 5 minutes, and then add the sprouts. Season with salt, pepper and a pinch of sugar.  Cover and cook slowly for 20 minutes, until sprouts are tender. Stir in pesto and scatter with parmesan to serve.

Cook’s Illustrated Spanish-Style Garlic Shrimp

Cook’s Illustrated Spanish-Style Garlic Shrimp

Cook’s Illustrated Spanish-Style Garlic Shrimp

Serve shrimp with crusty bread for dipping in the richly flavored olive oil. The dish can be served directly from the skillet (make sure to use a trivet) or, for a sizzling effect, transferred to an 8-inch cast iron skillet that’s been heated for 2 minutes over medium-high heat. We prefer the slightly sweet flavor of dried chiles in this recipe, but tsp. sweet paprika can be substituted. If sherry vinegar is unavailable, use 2 tsp. dry sherry and 1 tsp. white vinegar.

14 garlic cloves, peeled
1 lb. large shrimp (31 to 40 per pound), peeled, deveined, and tails removed
1/2 C. olive oil
1/2 tsp. salt
1 bay leaf
1 (2-inch) piece mild dried chile, such as New Mexican, roughly broken, seeds included
1 1/2 tsp. sherry vinegar
1 tsp. chopped fresh parsley

Mince 2 garlic cloves and toss with shrimp, 2 tsp. olive oil, and salt in medium bowl. Let shrimp marinate at room temperature for 30 minutes. Meanwhile, using flat side of chef’s knife, smash 4 garlic cloves. Heat smashed garlic with remaining 6 tsp. olive oil in 12-inch skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until garlic is light golden brown, 4 to 7 minutes. Remove pan from heat and allow oil to cool to room temperature. Using slotted spoon, remove smashed garlic from skillet and discard. Thinly slice remaining 8 garlic cloves. Return skillet to low heat and add sliced garlic, bay leaf, and chile. Cook, stirring occasionally, until garlic is tender but not browned, 4 to 7 minutes. (If garlic has not begun to sizzle after 3 minutes, increase heat to medium-low.) Increase heat to medium-low; add shrimp with marinade to pan in single layer. Cook shrimp, undisturbed, until oil starts to gently bubble, about 2 minutes. Using tongs, flip shrimp and continue to cook until almost cooked through, about 2 minutes longer. Increase heat to high and add sherry vinegar and parsley. Cook, stirring constantly, until shrimp are cooked through and oil is bubbling vigorously, 15 to 20 seconds. Serve immediately.

Skewered Buffalo Mozzarella Parcels

Skewered Buffalo Mozzarella Parcels

Skewered Buffalo Mozzarella Parcels

Olive Oil
2 cloves Garlic, crushed
Rosemary Sticks, for skewers
Ciabatta bread, cut or torn into small pieces
Buffalo Mozzarella, cut or torn into pieces the same size as the bread
Smoked Pancetta
Arugula
Lemon Juice

Add garlic to olive oil in bowl along with a few rosemary leaves. Toss bread and mozzarella in bread and let marinate for 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Take 1 piece bread and 1 piece mozzarella and stack them on each other. Wrap a piece of pancetta around them and push onto a rosemary stalk. Repeat until its mostly full (probably about 4 balls per skewer). Preheat grill while you finish for all bread and mozzarella. Grill for 5-6 minutes, turning once, until crisp and golden. Squeeze lemon into bowl that held the olive oil, cheese and bread, and whisk it. Add arugula and toss with your hands to lightly coat. Place arugula on plate, top with skewer and enjoy.

Spicy Herb Roasted Nuts

Spicy Herb Roasted Nuts

1 1/2 C. almonds
1 1/2 C. walnut halves
1 C. hazelnuts
1 C. pecan halves
1/2 C. maple syrup
1/4 tsp. cayenne
1 1/2 tsp. chopped fresh oregano leaves
1 1/2 tsp. chopped fresh sage leaves
1 1/2 tsp. chopped fresh thyme leaves
1 1/2 tsp. chopped fresh rosemary leaves
1 1/2 tsp. chopped fresh savory leaves
1 1/2 tsp. chopped fresh marjoram leaves
3 T. olive oil
About 1 tsp. kosher salt

Mix almonds, walnuts, hazelnuts, pecans, maple syrup, cayenne, oregano, sage, thyme, rosemary, savory, marjoram, and oil in a 10- by 15-inch rimmed pan. Sprinkle nuts with 1 tsp. salt. Bake in a 300° oven, stirring occasionally, until all liquid evaporates and nuts are golden under the skin (break open to test), about 45 minutes. Let cool. Taste and add more salt if desired.

Bread Dipping Spices

Bread Dipping Spices

Bread Dipping Sauce1 T. chopped Italian flat leaf parsley
1 T. minced garlic
1 tsp. dried thyme
1 tsp. dried oregano
1 T. fresh Basil
1/8 tsp. dried rosemary (or 1/2 tsp. fresh)
1 tsp ground black pepper
1/2 tsp. kosher salt
1/8 tsp. ground red pepper (or 1/4 tsp. red pepper flakes)
1/2 tsp. extra virgin olive oil
1/8 tsp. fresh lemon juice

Place all ingredients except olive oil & lemon in a blender or food processor and chop until all ingredients are similar in size. Stir in the olive oil & lemon juice. In a small dish, place 1 1/2 tsp. spice mixture. Pour 3-4 T. extra virgin olive oil over top of the spice mixture. Serve with French bread for dipping.

Cheese and Charcuterie Plate

Cheese and Charcuterie Plate

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Creating your own version is a great opportunity to experiment with different meats and cheeses – ask your cheese monger what varieties complement each other. You could even organize the board thematically – go Spanish with Manchego cheese and Chorizo sausage with Marcona Almonds or if Italy is your inspiration, use chunks of good Parmesan Cheese and slices of Proscuitto with a small bowl of roasted red peppers. I like to serve this meal on a rustic wooden board.

selection of 3 cheeses (one cow, one goat, one sheep), slicing a few servings of each
selection of 3 cured meats (bresaola, soppressata and proscuitto), thinly sliced
olives
tupelo honey
raisin walnut loaf, sliced
baguette, sliced

Artfully arrange meats and cheeses (wedges and slices) on a board or platter. Fill in the gaps with small bowls: one with olives (along with a smaller bowl for the pits) and the other filled with honey. You want the board to look elegant but overflowing with goodness. Place your sliced breads in a basket, bowl or platter nearby.

What Cheeses And Meats Should You Use?

The best cheese and meat boards are diverse — don’t be afraid to experiment. Try to include at least one cheese from each of these predominant category:

1) A fresh cheese (fiore di latte and/or burrata)
2) A soft-ripened cheese (camembert and/or brie)
3) A semi-soft cheese (friulano, havarti and/or gouda)
4) A firm cheese (piave, spillembergo, aged provolone and crotonese)
5) A hard cheese (grana padano and parmigiano reggiano)
6) A veined cheese (gorgonzola and/or stilton)

If you want to add in meats, there should be an array ranging from smoky speck to a cooked item, like mortadella or a bacon-like pancetta. You may also want a cured sausage like salami or aged items like bresaola and especially the renowned prosciutto di parma.

Too Much, Too Little… How Much Should You Buy?

Since the cheese board is likely to be a starter to an abundant meal to follow, a recommended quantity is one to two ounces of cheese and three slices of meat per person. Remember, you’re trying to delight your guests’ palate, but keep their appetites intact for later courses.

What Do I Plate It All On?

Take the time and plate it right since it’s Thanksgiving. Treat the cheeseboard like a centrepiece. Use platters that are both ornate and practical. Food grade wood boards are great; if you have them, marble slabs are the best (flat, rimless and aesthetically pleasing, they’re also easy surfaces for cutting cheese on).

To Cube Or Not To Cube…

The look of wedge-cut cheeses is more authentic and requiring guests to cut cheese to their taste adds an interactive element. Only resort to pre-cut tasting pieces (like cubes) out of necessity.

How Many Knives Do I Need To Use?

Always use separate cheese knives for each cheese. This ensures the distinctive notes of each cheese are kept pure. Regarding meat, there is very little risk of intermingling flavours so a simple fork is fine.

What Else Should I Add To The Board?

Surrounding the board with appropriate accompaniments adds interest and contrasting yet complementary flavours. They also serve as palate cleansers in between cheese samplings and simply enhance all flavours. Notable accompaniments are: dried fruit like apricots and figs; nuts (natural and unflavoured) such as almonds and walnuts; sliced fresh fruit with mild notes like pears (or with a slight tang like apples). Meats are robust in flavour and their pleasantness is heightened by cured olives. The gaeta and cerignola species are marvelous. Also, accompanied meat with fresh fruit, like figs and melon, is divine.

 

What Condiments Should I Add To The Plate?

Condiments, condiments, condiments! Use them. They enhance the flavours of cheeses. The best ones to use include: wine-based jelly; lightly sweetened, concentrated fruit-based jams (pear and fig are ideal); fruit compotes; honey; and, especially, a product from Cremona, Italy, known as mostarda cremonese, which is a condiment made of candied fruit and a mustard-flavoured syrup. Finely sliced meats are best as is; adding the above alters the taste too much.

What Type Of Crackers Should I Use?

As a textural contrast, serve crusty bread, plain crackers, plain breadsticks or plain crostini. Mellow tasting items such as these achieve the texture contrasting element while their subtleness allows the flavour profile of the cheese to be at the forefront and untainted.

When Should I Pull The Platter Together?

Arrange the selected cheeses anywhere between 30 to 60 minutes before guests arrive to bring the cheeses to room temperature and optimum flavour; 15 to 20 minutes ahead is ample for plating the meat.

Now, What Type Of Wine Should I Serve?

Does cheese enhance wine or does wine enhance cheese? Don’t worry about it — just combine the two. Some brilliant pairings to the cheese categories listed above in tip number one are:
1) San Giovese and Pinot Grigio
2) Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir
3) Zinfandel and Riesling
4) Chianti and San Giovese
5) Chianti and Barolo and Brunello
6) Prosecco and Port

Sautéed Feta w/ Piquant Relishes

Sautéed Feta w/ Piquant Relishes

2 pkgs. (8 oz. each) Athenos Feta Cheese
All-purpose flour
Olive oil
1 lemon, optional

Cut the feta into either slices or triangles that are ~1/2″ thick (cut into thirds, so that you have 3 “slabs”, then cut each of those down the center diagonally to get 6 triangles or in half lengthwise to get 6 slices). Pour some flour onto a plate. Dredge each piece of feta in flour, shaking to remove excess and set aside for a moment. Place a large cast-iron (or nonstick) skillet over medium-high heat. Pour on a thin layer of olive oil, and once it is screaming hot, add a few feta pieces to the pan (being careful not to overcrowd) and brown for ~1 minute per side. If using, squeeze a bit of lemon juice over the slices once they are browned and transfer to a serving plate. Spoon a bit of each of the sauces over the cheese to serve.

Sautéed Feta Cheese
Parsley, Raisin, Caper, and Pine Nut Relish

2 T. golden raisins, coarsely chopped
1 T. capers, drained and coarsely chopped
1½ anchovy fillets, finely chopped
1 T. pine nuts, finely chopped
1 garlic clove, minced
1/4 c. Fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped
2 T. extra virgin olive oil
Juice of ½ lemon
Sea salt
Freshly ground black pepper

Combine everything, then season to taste with salt and pepper.
Sundried Tomato, Walnut, Olive, and Oregano Relish

~8 sundried tomatoes, dry pack, coarsely chopped
2 T. kalamata olives
1 T. purple raisins, coarsely chopped
1½ anchovy fillets, finely chopped
2 T. walnuts, finely chopped
1 garlic clove, minced
1 T. fresh oregano, chopped (or 1 tsp. dried)
2 T. extra virgin olive oil
juice of ½ lemon
sea salt
freshly ground black pepper

Combine everything, then season to taste with salt and pepper.

Peppers Stuffed with Feta (Piperies Yemistes me Feta)

Peppers Stuffed with Feta (Piperies Yemistes me Feta)

cq5dam_web_266_2004 small red and green sweet peppers, about 1 1/2 ounces each and 4 inches long
7 ounces feta
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano, optional

Cut the tops off the peppers and carefully remove the seeds, keeping the peppers whole. Crumble the feta and stuff tightly into the peppers, then replace the tops. Heat the olive oil in a skillet and saute the peppers over high heat (propping the peppers up against the sides of the skillet so the filling doesn’t ooze out), gently turning them over, until they are lightly browned on the outside, and the feta is melted a bit but not running out (the hats may fall off, but replace when serving). Serve whole or cut into thick slices, with the oregano crumbled over the top, if desired.

Tomatokeftedes

Tomatokeftedes

DSC_00532 punnets small tomatoes (approximately 400 grams)
½ cup red onions, finely chopped (or spring onions)
¼ cup chopped fresh mint
¼ cup chopped fresh basil
¼ cup chopped fresh continental parsley
1 tsp oregano (you can also use fresh thyme instead)
Sea salt and cracked pepper, to taste
100g plain flour
Extra virgin olive oil, for frying

Rinse the tomatoes well and dry them. Place them in a large bowl and pinch them so that the pulp comes out and you are left with a smooth pulp. Add the onions, mint, basil, parsley, oregano, sea salt, and cracked pepper and mix well. Add the flour gradually until you reach a thick but moist sticky paste. Do not make the paste dry. Pour some olive oil in a large frying pan or wok to a depth of 3cm. When the oil is hot but not smoking, carefully drop in tablespoons of the mixture, and fry, turning once, so that both sides become a light golden colour. These are best served immediately with Greek yoghurt.

Revithokeftedes

Revithokeftedes

th-syntagi-revithokeftedes-kw1/2 kilo chickpeas, preferably without skin
1 big onion or 4 – 5 spring onions, finely cut
1 cup of parsley, finely cut
2 spoonfuls of dried mint or fresh
1/2 teaspoon of oregano
Salt
Pepper
2 eggs (optional)
2 tablespoonful of flour
Extra flour for dredging
Olive oil for frying

Soak the chickpeas in water overnight. Drain, add fresh water and bring to a boil. Skim all the foam that forms with a slotted spoon and then drain. Put them in the pot again and add water and remove any chickpeas skins which will float on the surface. Put them back on the heat and when they boil add salt and simmer until they become soft. This may take 1 – 2 hours depending on the quality of the chickpeas. Drain and mash with a fork. I do not mash them in a food processor as we want some small bits of chickpeas in the patties. Grate the onion or finely cut the spring onions and the parsley, add all the remaining ingredients except the flour for dredging and mix well. Shape them into round patties, dredge them in flour and fry in hot olive oil. Remove on kitchen paper to absorb excess oil and serve as a side dish.

Saganaki with Honey & Sesame

Saganaki with Honey & Sesame

2 T. Honey
4 ½ oz. ¾” thick Kasseri Cheese
1 Egg, lightly Beaten
Flour, for coating
Olive Oil, for frying
1 tsp. black sesame Seeds

Heat honey gently in small saucepot. Keep warm over low heat. Pour oil into a small nonstick skillet to a depth of ½ inch. Put egg in one flat bowl and flour in another. Heat oil over medium high heat until a bread cube dropped in the oil browns in 15 seconds. Dip cheese into the egg, then pat it in flour to coat well. Add to oil and fry until golden on both sides. Spoon / splash oil onto the sides to make sure they are fried golden too. When crisp on the outside and soft in the middle, remove to paper towel to drain. Serve hot, cut up into squares, drizzled with honey and sprinkled with sesame seeds.

Greek Spinach Balls with Minted Dill Yogurt Sauce

Greek Spinach Balls with Minted Dill Yogurt Sauce

img_202832 pounds fresh spinach
1 cup chopped scallions
2 tsp. olive oil
2 cups cooked brown rice
2 T. chopped fresh dill
1 1/2 T. fresh lemon juice (or juice of one large lemon should do it)
1 cup bread crumbs (you can make your own if needed)
Salt and pepper to taste
sesame seeds to coat, about one cup

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. In a large pot, steam the spinach a few minutes until just wilted (only a few minutes). Drain and roughly chop the spinach. In a small saucepan, add the oil and sauté the scallions for about 5 minutes, until just starting to brown. In a large mixing bowl, combine all ingredients except sesame seeds. Use spray oil and coat a large baking sheet. But the sesame seeds in a bowl. Use your hands to make small snowball-sized balls with the mixture, then roll the spinach balls in the sesame seeds to coat. Arrange on the baking sheet without touching. This will make approx. 10 spinach balls. Bake for about 30 minutes.

Minted Dill Yogurt Dressing

1 cup plain yogurt
2 tsp. minced scallions (or red onion)
1 T. minced fresh dill
1 tsp. minced fresh mint (or 1 T. dried mint)
1 minced garlic clove
2 tsp. fresh lemon juice
Pinch of sugar
Salt to taste

Mix everything.

Mediterranean Mushroom Tacos

Mediterranean Mushroom Tacos

Mediterranean Mushroom Tacos

 

one 10 ounces package Crimini mushrooms

2 cloves garlic, minced or pressed using a garlic press

1 1/2 T. olive oil

1 tsp. ground turmeric

1 tsp. dried basil

1/2 tsp. cumin

1/2 tsp. cracked black pepper

1/4 tsp. salt

For tacos:

 

Sautéed mushroom blend (ingredients above)

1 plum tomato, diced

1/2 cucumber, diced

1/3 C. tahini (sesame paste)

2 T. lemon juice

1 clove minced garlic

4 corn tacos

 

Wash mushrooms well and dice using a chef’s knife. Heat 2 cloves minced garlic in 1 1/2 Tbsp. olive oil for one minute. Add mushrooms and sauté until mushrooms are translucent, about 5 minutes. Add turmeric, basil, cumin, pepper and salt to mushrooms and sauté an additional 1-2 minutes. Mix 1 clove minced garlic with lemon juice and tahini to form the tahini sauce. Heat corn tortillas in microwave for 15-20 seconds, until soft and pliable. Place 1/4 of the mushroom blend on each tortilla. Top with tomatoes, cucumbers and 1/4 of tahini sauce mixture.

Pane Fritto Con Acciuda

Pane Fritto Con Acciuda

23 oz. anchovies
3 cups flour
1 teaspoon granulated sugar
Pinch of salt
1/4 oz. dry yeast
1 egg
2 cups water
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 cups corn oil

Drain the anchovies and cut each fish into thirds. Set aside. Combine flour, sugar, salt, and yeast in a bowl. Beat egg and combine with water and 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the egg mixture to the flour and mix until blended. Dough should be soft and runny. Place in a bowl, cover, and let rise for one to one and a half hours. When the dough is double the original size, remove it from the bowl and set it on a pastry board. Pinch off 1 teaspoon, flatten it in the palm of your hand, place an anchovy in the center and seal it inside by rolling the dough into a ball. If the dough is too soft to handle, allow it to remain in the bowl. Keep a little extra flour on hand. Take a teaspoon, dip into the dough, and pull up enough dough to fill the spoon. With flour on your fingers, trim off any hanging dough. Place the anchovy in the center of the dough and fold the dough over it. Do not place it on a board, but drop it directly into hot oil, coaxing it from the spoon with a floured finger. Place a two quart pot over medium-high heat. Heat to hot. Add oil. Allow to heat. Drop anchovy balls into the hot oil one at a time. They will puff immediately. Allow to brown. Turn. Remove and drain. Eat warm. Anchovy Puffs are best eaten immediately. You can make a sweet version by omitting the stuffing with anchovies, frying, and then coating with sugar or honey.

Fried Zucchini Flowers

Fried Zucchini Flowers

24 zucchini flowers, with stems
4 C. EVOO
2 large Eggs, beaten
2 C. Flour
Fresh Basil, thinly sliced
Finely Grated Parmesan Cheese
Salt & Pepper to taste

fried_zucchini_flowers

Gently remove the pistil from the center of each flower. Cut stems to about 1 inch. Rinse gently with water. Make sure blossoms are dry before using. Heat 1” oil in a 12” sauté pan over medium-high heat until oil is hot but not smoking. Beat eggs and set aside in shallow dish. Combine flour, basil, cheese, salt and pepper in its own dish. Dip zucchini blossoms, one at a time, in beaten egg. Let most egg drain away, then roll in flour, shaking off excess. Fry a few minutes until crisp and golden brown on both sides. Drain on paper towels.

Pan-Fried Feta with Peppered Honey

Pan-Fried Feta with Peppered Honey

Pan-Fried Feta with Peppered Honey

 

1/4 C. honey

1/2-1 tsp. black pepper, plus more for serving

1 T. fresh thyme leaves, plus more for serving

 

1 (10-12 ounce) block feta cheese

1 large egg, beaten

1/3 C. Panko bread crumbs

5 T. extra virgin olive oil

2 T. thinly sliced lemon zest (from about 1 lemon)

1 C. cherry tomatoes

1/4 C. fresh basil, chopped

pita chips or pita bread, for serving

 

To make the honey. Combine all ingredients in a glass jar. To make the feta. Whisk the egg in a shallow bowl. Add the Panko to a separate shallow bowl. Dip the feta through the egg, turning to coat, remove and allow any excess to drip off. Dredge the feta through the Panko, turning to coat and pressing gently to adhere. Heat 3 T. oil in a medium skillet set over medium heat. When the oil shimmers, add the lemon zest and cook 30 seconds to 1 minute until fried. Remove from the skillet and set aside. To the same skillet add the feta and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, until golden brown. Transfer the feta to a serving plate. In a small bowl, combine the tomatoes, 1 T. oil, basil, and a pinch of salt. Serve the feta warm, drizzled with honey and topped with fried lemon, thyme, and tomatoes. Enjoy with pita chips or bread.

Tuna and Olive Stuffed Romano Peppers

Tuna and Olive Stuffed Romano Peppers

Tuna and Olive Stuffed Romano Peppers

 

1 small red onion, diced

1 small garlic clove, minced

12 shiitake mushrooms, chopped

Half a 2-ounce (45 g) tin of sustainable anchovies, drained

One 5-ounce (140 g) tin of tuna in olive oil, drained

2 tsp. capers

5 black olives, halved

2 romano peppers, halved

2 tsp. panko (Japanese bread crumbs)

Zest of 1 lemon

¼ bunch of flat-leaf parsley, leaves only, finely chopped

Olive oil

Pepper

 

Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Heat a splash of olive oil over medium-high heat and sauté the red onion, garlic, and shiitake mushrooms until softened, 3 to 4 minutes. Add the anchovy fillets and let them “melt” in 2 minutes. Finally, mix in the tuna, capers, and olives and cook for a few more minutes until warmed through. Meanwhile, brush the halved peppers with olive oil and place them in an ovenproof dish. Remove the tuna mixture from the heat, fill the peppers with it, and dust with panko. Drizzle some extra olive oil on top and bake in the oven for 20 to 25 minutes, until crisp and done. Scatter the lemon zest and the parsley over the peppers. Season with freshly ground black pepper and serve.

 

Feta Cheese in Phyllo With Mastiha, Sesame, Thyme & Honey

Feta Cheese in Phyllo With Mastiha, Sesame, Thyme & Honey

680a217029bdc4c6ae98cb54739072f81 slab of Epiros Feta cheese
2 T. of butter, melted
a sprinkle of ground mastiha
1 sheet of phyllo pastry
1 tsp. of olive oil
black and white sesame seeds
drizzle of Attiki honey
fresh thyme leaves

Take your slab of Feta cheese out of the container and pat dry (or slice evenly to about 1/2 inch thick) and set aside. Now place sheet of phyllo on your work surface and brush the entire surface with melted butter then fold over and brush the top layer again. Place the slab of Feta at one end of the phyllo (about two inches in from the edge) and sprinkle the ground mastiha over the cheese. Now fold the short end of phyllo over the cheese followed by folding the two sides in towards the cheese. Now roll-up the phyllo until it has been completed wrapped to form a phyllo packet. Brush the seam where the end of the phyllo sheet ends and brush the remaining butter over the rest of the phyllo packet. Place heavy skillet or cast iron pan on your stovetop over medium heat and add tsp. of olive oil. Once hot, gently place your phyllo packet in the pan and fry for 2-3 minutes a side or until just golden. Use spatula to carefully flip and fry the other side until just golden. You may serve “saganaki” style in the pan or transfer to a serving plate. Drizzle with honey, sprinkle with sesame seeds and fresh thyme leaves. Serve as a meze with an Ouzo (or tsipouro) on ice and a squeeze of lemon juice (optional).

Rolls of Serrano Ham with Smoked Salmon Mousse

Rolls of Serrano Ham with Smoked Salmon Mousse

6 slices of Serrano ham, very thinly sliced
5 oz smoked salmon
1/4 l. fresh cream
4 sheets gelatin
4 tablespoons tomato sauce
1 1/2 onion
1 cup brandy
Salt and pepper

Dice serrano ham and onion. Put butter in a saucepan and sauté the onion at a low temperature. Add salmon, salt, pepper, tomato sauce and brandy. When the mixture has almost evaporated, add soaked sheets of gelatin, Puree. Pour mixture through a sieve to make a smooth cream. Allow to cool. Whip the cream with a pinch of salt and white pepper; add cream to the smoked salmon, stirring slowly. Allow mixture to cool for two hours. Spread the mousse on the slices of serrano ham and roll up.

Cracked Green Olives with Herbs and Preserved Lemon

Cracked Green Olives with Herbs and Preserved Lemon

1 pound small to medium brine-cured green olives (preferably cracked)*
1/4 C. chopped fresh coriander
3 T. chopped fresh mint leaves
Peel of 1/2 preserved lemon, cut into julienne strips, plus 3 T. preserved lemon juice to taste
2 T. olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 tsp. ground coriander
a pinch dried red hot pepper flakes

If using uncracked whole olives, crush lightly with flat side of large knife on a cutting board. In a large bowl cover olives with cold water and soak 4 hours to remove excess salt. Drain olives well. In a bowl stir together olives and remaining ingredients and marinate, covered and chilled, at least 6 hours or overnight. Olives may be prepared 1 week ahead and kept chilled, covered. Serve olives at room temperature.

Griddled Haloumi with Caramelized Fennel, Shallots and Parsley

Griddled Haloumi with Caramelized Fennel, Shallots and Parsley

halloumi16oz. halloumi cheese

2 large bulbs of fennel

5 shallots

Olive oil

Lemon juice

Freshly ground black pepper

a bunch of flat-leaf parsley

Slice the shallots and the fennel bulb fairly thinly. Heat 2 T. olive oil in a heavy-bottomed frying pan and sauté over medium heat. A little bit of browning is fine, but don’t let them burn. Once all the liquid is absorbed, add a splash of white wine to the pan and continue to cook over medium heat until they are soft and pliable. Allow to cool. Wash and roughly chop the parsley, then toss together with the vegetables in a mixture of about 3/4 olive oil and 1/4 lemon juice. Divide between 6 serving plates. Slice the cheese into fairly thick slices so that there are at least 12 slices. Heat an oiled griddle pan (or indoor grill) until very hot, then fry/grill the halloumi slices. Lift carefully with a spatula and be warned that they may stick! Turn when you have good grill marks on the bottom and repeat the process with the other side of each slice.   Top each serving of caramelized vegetables with 2 halloumi slices, garnish with more flat-leaf parsley and serve.