Roasted Eggplant Zucchini Noodles w/ Blood Orange + Black Currant Vinaigrette

Zucchini Noodles

Zucchini Noodles

This is a lovely recipe that I wanted to share with you all because it’s one of my absolute favorites and perfect for Spring! ?????

Roasted Eggplant Zucchini Salad

This Roasted Eggplant Zucchini Noodle Salad is made with some roasted eggplant, quinoa, feta cheese, mint and pomegranate seeds which are all lightly drizzled in this gorgeous vinaigrette dressing I made with Seven Barrels Blood Orange Olive Oil + Black Currant Balsamic Vinegar which makes the salad even more #delish!

Roasted Eggplant Zucchini Salad

Start out by first cutting up your eggplant into medium size chunks, drizzle with olive oil, salt and pepper. Roast in the oven on a sheet pan for about 25 minutes until soft and golden. Cook quinoa according to package directions and drain, fluff with a fork. Make your zucchini spirals with a spiralizer (or you can shave long, thin slices with a mandoline) and drizzle with a little olive oil and salt and pepper and sauté for a few minutes.

Roasted Eggplant Zucchini Noodles

Then toss the roasted eggplant and cooked quinoa in a bowl with the zucchini noodles. Top with feta cheese, pomegranate arils, and mint leaves. Drizzle with the Blood Orange Black Currant vinaigrette dressing and toss together with the salad. Season the zucchini noodles with salt and pepper to taste. 

Roasted Eggplant Zucchini Noodles

Feel free to substitute crumbly queso cheese, goat cheese, burrata, mozzarella or any other mild cheese you like. You can also use cooked wild rice, farro or any other ancient grain you like (amarynth, teff, etc.) for the quinoa – or leave it out all together to make the recipe #keto/#lowcarb/#atkins-friendly. If you can’t find fresh pomegranate arils, the salad would be delicious with either some fresh baby tomatoes or roasted red peppers. Soooo good and #healthy!

Have a great weekend everyone, stay safe, stay healthy and enjoy 🙂

Roasted Eggplant Zucchini Noodles w/ Blood Orange + Black Currant Vinaigrette

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cook Time: 45 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour, 15 minutes

Yield: 4

Serving Size: 1 cup

Calories per serving: 221

Fat per serving: 13.6g

Roasted Eggplant Zucchini Noodles w/ Blood Orange + Black Currant Vinaigrette

This Roasted Eggplant Zucchini Noodle Salad with roasted eggplant, quinoa, feta, pomegranate + mint is super #fresh and #healthy and the perfect light meal to start off the weekend! Drizzled in a @7Barrels Blood Orange + Black Currant balsamic vinaigrette makes this even more absolutely #delish!

Ingredients

  • 1 medium Italian eggplant
  • ¼ cup plus 1 tablespoon Seven Barrels Blood Orange Olive Oil, divided
  • 1-2 tablespoons Seven Barrels Black Currant Balsamic Vinegar
  • Sea salt, to taste, plus more for serving
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1-2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • ½ cup water
  • ¼ cup dry quinoa
  • 2 zucchinis spiral sliced or made into ribbons with a wide peeler
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon grainy Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • Ground black pepper, to taste
  • ½ cup pomegranate arils or cherry tomatoes, halved
  • ½ cup feta cheese, for garnish
  • Handful fresh mint, roughly chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 475ºF.
  2. Cut eggplant into 1-inch cubes. On a rimmed baking sheet, toss eggplant with ¼ cup Seven Barrels Blood Orange Olive Oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast until browned and tender, about 25 minutes. Toss with 1-2 tablespoons Seven Barrels Black Currant Balsamic Vinegar and chopped parsley.
  3. Meanwhile, bring salted water and quinoa to a boil in a medium saucepan. Reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let steam with cover on for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
  4. For the dressing, in a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of Seven Barrels Blood Orange Olive Oil, lemon juice, grainy Dijon mustard, honey, and ground pepper. Season with salt, to taste.
  5. Squeeze any excess water out of the zucchini noodles with a tea towel or paper towels. Add 1 tablespoon of Seven Barrels Blood Orange Olive Oil in a large sauté pan and cook the noodles for about 2-3 minutes, toss in the cooked quinoa and mix together.
  6. Pour the dressing over the cooked quinoa and zucchini; toss well to combine and transfer to a serving bowl. Top with roasted eggplant, pomegranate arils or cherry tomatoes, feta cheese and mint, to serve. Drizzle with an additional small amount of dressing, and additional salt and pepper to taste, if desired.

Notes

Feel free to substitute cojita cheese, goat cheese, burrata, mozzarella or any other mild cheese you like.

You can also substitute wild rice or farro or any other ancient grain you like (amarynth, teff, etc.) for the quinoa (or leave it out all together to make the recipe keto/low carb/atkins friendly.

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https://www.theartfulgourmet.com/2020/05/roasted-eggplant-zucchini-noodles-w-blood-orange-black-currant-vinaigrette/

Other Zucchini Noodles #recipes you may enjoy: 

Shrimp, Basil & Corn Zucchini Noodles w/ Meyer Lemon Cream Sauce

Garlic Zucchini Noodles

Zucchini Pasta

Red Curry Beef Zucchini Noodles

Zucchini Noodle Carbonara

Sweet + Spicy Chicken Thighs w/ Roasted Broccolini

Sweet and Spicy Chicken + Roasted Broccolini

Sometimes you need to spice things up in life a little. Especially to brighten up those late Winter/early Spring dreary days when you’re craving #BBQ, until the gorgeous grilling weather is back in full swing!

These Sweet and Spicy Chicken Thighs are the perfect remedy – bathed in a gorgeous sticky, spicy and sweet glaze, made with Penzey’s Northwoods Fire Rub and Woodstock Everything Sauce and a little honey and white balsamic vinegar for a great BBQ flavor with the convenience of the broiler.

Sweet and Spicy Chicken + Roasted Broccolini

I made some fresh and easy Roasted Broccolini with Garlic to go with the chicken, but you could also serve them with the typical BBQ fixings: corn on the cob, baked beans, cole slaw, mac and cheese or fries. Black beans and rice would also be a great option for a Caribbean flair. Or shred the chicken and make some Spicy Sweet Chicken Tacos or BBQ Chicken Wraps or Pizza with the roasted broccolini…YUM!

Penzey's + Woodstead

Chef’s Notes: Penzey’s Northwoods Fire Rub is a lovely spicy mixture of salt, chipotle, black pepper, Hungarian paprika, garlic, rosemary, thyme, black pepper, and cayenne. If you aren’t able to find it or buy some,  you can make your own by using the following: 2 teaspoons garlic powder, 2 teaspoons chipotle or chili powder, 1 teaspoon paprika, 3/4 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon cayenne, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary and 1/2 teaspoon dried  thyme. Get it online here.

Woodstead Hot Anything & Everything Sauce is a sweet and spicy glaze I found in Upstate New York in Naples in the Finger Lakes (it’s made there locally and sold at the farmer’s markets and you can also get it at Arbor Hill winery). It’s key ingredients are ketchup, vinegar, sugar, mustard, salt, turmeric and paprika, orange juice, cayenne pepper, crushed red pepper and brown sugar. It’s super delicious on everything as a bbq glaze or a dip for chips or fries. If you can’t find the sauce or aren’t able to get it to make my recipe then I suggest finding a Carolina-style BBQ sauce (mustard and vinegar based) and mixing it with the honey and white balsamic vinegar per my recipe instructions and it would be just as delicious! Kinda like a Honey BBQ mixed with the spicy rub for an extra kick!

Sweet + Spicy Chicken Thighs w/ Roasted Broccolini

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Yield: Serves 4.

Serving Size: 1-2 chicken thighs and 3-4 broccolini stalks

These Sweet and Spicy Chicken Thighs are bathed in a gorgeous sticky, spicy and sweet glaze, made with Penzey's Northwoods Fire Rub and Woodstock Everything Sauce and a little honey and white balsamic vinegar for a great BBQ flavor with the convenience of the broiler. Served with an easy, healthy and delicious Roasted Broccolini with garlic on the side.

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon Penzey's Northwoods Fire Seasoning
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt
  • freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 8 skinless, boneless chicken thighs
  • 1/2 cup Woodstead Hot Anything & Everything Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 2 teaspoons white balsamic vinegar
  • Roasted Broccolini:
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 bunches broccolini
  • 2 garlic cloves, chopped fine
  • 2-3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • Sea salt + fresh ground black pepper, to taste
  • Dash of red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Make the Sweet + Spicy Chicken:
  2. Preheat the broiler.
  3. Drizzle the olive oil and sprinkle the Penzey's Northwoods Fire Seasoning over the chicken thighs in a large mixing bowl and toss to coat evenly.
  4. Place the chicken on a broiler pan coated with cooking spray and broil for 5 minutes on each side.
  5. Combine the Woodstead Hot Anything + Everything sauce with the honey and white balsamic vinegar in a small bowl, stirring together well.
  6. Remove the chicken from the oven and brush half of the sauce over the chicken. Broil for 1 minute.
  7. Remove from the oven and turn the chicken over. Brush the chicken with the remaining sauce and broil for an additional minute or until the chicken is cooked through and has crispy edges.
  8. Drizzle or brush any additional sauce over the chicken if desired.
  9. Make the Roasted Broccolini:
  10. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
  11. Trim 2 inches off the ends of the broccolini stems and place the broccolini in a single layer on a large sheet pan.
  12. Drizzle the broccolini with 2 tablespoons olive oil, sprinkle with minced garlic, sea salt and black pepper, a dash of red pepper flakes, and toss together to coat evenly.
  13. Roast broccolini for 15 minutes, until it is crisp-tender, and browned.
  14. Serve hot, immediately.

Notes

Chef's Notes: Penzey's Northwoods Fire Rub is a lovely spicy mixture of salt, chipotle, black pepper, Hungarian paprika, garlic, rosemary, thyme, black pepper, and cayenne. If you aren't able to get the Penzey's spice rub you can make your own by using the following: 2 teaspoons garlic powder, 2 teaspoons chipotle or chili powder, 1 teaspoon paprika, 3/4 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon cayenne, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary and 1/2 teaspoon dried  thyme.  Woodstead Hot Anything & Everything Sauce is a sweet and spicy glaze I found in Upstate New York in Naples in the Finger Lakes (it's made there locally and sold at the farmer's markets). It's key ingredients are ketchup, vinegar, sugar, mustard, salt, turmeric and paprika, orange juice, cayenne pepper, crushed red pepper and brown sugar. It's super delicious on everything as a bbq glaze or a dip for chips or fries. If you can't find the sauce or aren't able to get it to make my recipe then I suggest finding a Carolina-style BBQ sauce (mustard and vinegar based) and mixing it with the honey and white balsamic vinegar per my recipe instructions and it would be just as delicious! Kinda like a Honey BBQ mixed with the spicy rub for an extra kick! 

https://www.theartfulgourmet.com/2019/03/sweet-spicy-chicken-thighs-w-roasted-broccolini/

Sweet and Spicy Chicken + Roasted Broccolini

Sticky..spicy…sweet…all rolled up into a delicious, easy meal – enjoy!

And bring on those Summer dayssssss!!! 🙂 🙂 🙂

Blood Orange Olive Oil Cake w/ Strawberry Balsamic Chocolate Sauce

Blood Orange Cake w/ Strawberry Sauce

It’s that love-ly time of year again folks, when love is in the air and a romantic dinner and evening in with your significant other is on the menu. And we all know what Valentine’s Day is all about…wine, chocolate, strawberries and a special sweet dessert!

I created this recipe for a Blood Orange Olive Oil Cake with Strawberry Chocolate Balsamic Sauce that will impress your sweetie and top off a romantic dinner along with a glass of champagne..hope you enjoy and indulge on this special day 😉

Blood Orange Olive Oil Cake w/ Strawberry Balsamic Chocolate Sauce

Yield: 4-6

A LOVELY dessert made with Blood Orange olive oil and Chocolate Balsamic Vinegar and fresh strawberries and LOTS OF LOVE <3

Ingredients

  • BLOOD ORANGE OLIVE OIL CAKE:
  • 1 tablespoon butter, for greasing pan
  • ¼ cup sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • 1/3 cup Seven Barrels Blood Orange Olive Oil
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Juice from 1 blood orange
  • 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • CHOCOLATE BALSAMIC STRAWBERRY SAUCE:
  • ½ cup Seven Barrels Chocolate Balsamic Vinegar
  • 1 cup chocolate syrup
  • 1 pint strawberries, stemmed and sliced

Instructions

  1. BLOOD ORANGE OLIVE OIL CAKE:
  2. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a 9-inch round cake pan or 8-inch loaf pan with butter.
  3. In a stand mixer or large bowl with hand mixer, mix together the sugar and eggs on medium speed until lightly blended.
  4. Drizzle in the Seven Barrels Blood Orange olive oil and vanilla and mix together until smooth. Add the blood orange juice in and mix into the batter.
  5. Sift the flour into a mixing bowl and add baking powder, soda and salt. Add to the wet batter in small increments and mix on low to incorporate. Scrape the sides with a spatula and make sure all wet and dry ingredients are blended well.
  6. Pour the batter into the cake pan and bake for 25-30 minutes. Let the cake cool on a wire rack for 5 minutes or so, then remove cake from the pan and let cool completely on the wire rack before serving.
  7. CHOCOLATE BALSAMIC STRAWBERRY SAUCE:
  8. Add the Seven Barrels Chocolate Balsamic vinegar and chocolate syrup to a medium saucepan over medium-low heat and cook for about 5 minutes until heated through and blended.
  9. Add the sliced strawberries to the chocolate sauce and mix together. Serve the sauce warm over Blood Orange Olive Oil cake or over ice cream.
https://www.theartfulgourmet.com/2018/02/blood-orange-olive-oil-cake-w-strawberry-balsamic-chocolate-sauce/

You can find the Blood Orange Olive Oil and Chocolate Balsamic Vinegar at www.7barrels.com

Truffle Steak Au Poivre + Cheesy Truffle Potato Stacks

I recently did some recipes for my client 7 Barrels for their holiday promotional marketing and social media campaign. Featuring their Traditional Balsamic Vinegar, White Balsamic Vinegar and White Truffle Extra Virgin Olive Oil, I created this delicious Truffle Steak Au Poivre and some amazing Cheesy Truffle Potato Stacks. Perfect for a chilly Winter evening, special occasion or holiday celebration! Truffle Steak Au Poivre This steak is so tender and melts in your mouth! This Truffle Steak Au Poivre has a crust made with crushed black peppercorns, cooked in butter and 7 Barrels White Truffle Oil, then drizzled with a luscious pan sauce made with 7 Barrels traditional balsamic vinegar, shallots, beef broth and more butter, sprinkled with coarse sea salt and chopped fresh herbs. Divine! Truffle Potato Stacks These Cheesy Truffle Potato Stacks are so delicious and cute you won’t be able to eat just one. Thin sliced potatoes stacked and roasted in a muffin tin with luscious butter, truffle oil, parmesan cheese, cheddar cheese and garlic, topped with a sprinkle of fresh thyme and coarse sea salt. YUM!

Truffle Steak Au Poivre + Cheesy Truffle Potato Stacks

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour

Yield: 4

These delicious steaks and cheesy potato stacks are made with luscious 7 Barrels truffle oil, traditional balsamic and white balsamic vinegar. The perfect combination for an elegant holiday dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients

  • Truffle Steak Au Poivre Ingredients:
  • 2 (8-ounce) NY Strip Steaks, 1 inch thick, trimmed
  • 1 teaspoon coarse sea salt (Maldon or Fleur de Sel)
  • 2 tablespoons cracked peppercorns (black or mixed)
  • 1 tablespoon Seven Barrels Truffle Olive Oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • 1/3 cup shallots, finely chopped
  • ½ cup low-sodium beef broth
  • 2 tablespoons Seven Barrels Traditional Dark Balsamic vinegar
  • Coarse sea salt and chopped herbs, for garnish (optional)
  • Cheesy Truffle Potato Stacks Ingredients:
  • 4 medium potatoes (Russet, Idaho or Yukon Gold)
  • 1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder (or 1 garlic clove, minced)
  • ¼ cup butter, melted
  • ¼ cup Seven Barrels Truffle Olive Oil
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1/2 cup sharp white cheddar, finely shredded
  • Coarse sea salt, for garnish
  • 2 tablespoons fresh herbs, chopped, for garnish (thyme, parsley or rosemary)
  • 1/4 cup Seven Barrels White Balsamic, for drizzling

Instructions

  1. Make the Steak:
  2. Heat a large cast iron skillet over high heat. Pat steaks dry with paper towels and sprinkle with salt evenly.
  3. Crack the peppercorns with the back of a heavy skillet or spice grinder (coarsely ground) and press onto both sides of the steaks.
  4. Add Seven Barrels Truffle olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter to the cast iron skillet; swirl to melt and coat the pan.
  5. Place the steaks in the heated skillet and cook 3 minutes on each side (for medium-rare), drizzling olive oil and butter from the pan over the top of the steaks with a spoon while cooking to get a nice brown sear. Remove the steaks from the pan and let rest for 5 minutes to let juices resettle, then cut each steak in half.
  6. While the steaks are resting, add the shallots to the pan and sauté for a minute or two until slightly tender and golden.
  7. Stir in the beef broth and Seven Barrels Traditional Dark Balsamic vinegar, scraping the pan to loosen the browned bits. Bring to a boil and cook for 2 minutes and reduce liquid by half. Remove from heat; stir in remaining tablespoon of butter to make the balsamic pan sauce. Garnish with additional coarse sea salt and fresh herbs, if desired.
  8. Serve immediately with a side of vegetables (mashed potatoes, sautéed asparagus or green beans), a simple mixed greens salad with Seven Barrels olive oil and balsamic vinegar, and a glass of full-bodied red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon).
  9. Make the Cheesy Truffle Potato Stacks:
  10. Preheat the oven 400 degrees F.
  11. Wash potatoes and cut them into very thin slices (about 1/8-inch), leaving skins on. You can do this by hand, or use a mandolin to make slicing easier and faster.
  12. In a large mixing bowl, add the potatoes, dried Italian seasoning, garlic, melted butter, Seven Barrels Truffle Olive Oil, kosher salt and black pepper, grated Parmesan cheese and gently toss together.
  13. Layer half the potatoes stacked in layers into a non-stick 12-cup muffin pan (or lightly grease a muffin pan), sprinkle half the shredded cheddar on top. Then layer the other half of the potatoes, stacking them to the top and add remaining shredded cheddar on top.
  14. Cover with foil and place on a baking sheet. Transfer to the oven and roast for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue cooking another 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are crispy golden brown on edges and cooked through. Run a small knife around the edges of the of each stack to release them from the muffin pan.
  15. Serve potatoes hot with a sprinkle of sea salt and chopped herbs, and drizzle them with Seven Barrels White Balsamic vinegar. Note: You can pre-bake these a day or two ahead and reheat them in the oven for 10-15 minutes on 350 degrees F.
https://www.theartfulgourmet.com/2018/01/truffle-steak-au-poivre-cheesy-truffle-potato-stacks/

Wild Rice Turkey Bowl w/ Citrus Vinaigrette

Wild Rice Turkey Bowl with Cranberries and Oranges

This is another favorite recipe I developed for my client Seven Barrels using their Meyer Lemon Olive Oil and Raspberry Balsamic Vinegar to make a lovely sweet and tart dressing, perfect for salads around the holidays. I wanted to make a recipe that incorporates Thanksgiving leftovers and create something light and easy after such a big, rich, and heavy meal.

Wild Rice + Turkey Bowl with Cranberries and Oranges

This Wild Rice + Turkey Bowl with Citrus Vinaigrette uses all that gorgeous leftover cooked turkey, some wild rice, crisp romaine, fresh oranges and orange zest, crunchy celery, red onion, dried cranberries and toasted walnuts, drizzled in a gorgeous lemon and raspberry vinaigrette dressing with a touch of cinnamon, cumin and tarragon.

Wild Rice + Turkey Bowl w/ Cranberries and Oranges

Feel free to experiment too with the bowl ingredients – you can substitute any other healthy whole grain like quinoa or farro or brown rice, and you could also try using cooked chicken in place of the turkey and try dried tart cherries and pistachios in place of the cranberries and walnuts. Any way you make it..I promise it will be delicious!!!

Wild Rice + Turkey Bowl with Cranberries and Oranges

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Yield: Serves 4

This is a great recipe for using leftover Thanksgiving turkey - a healthy delicious bowl salad with wild rice, romaine, orange, celery, red onion and dried cranberries and toasted walnuts, drizzled in a gorgeous lemon and raspberry vinaigrette dressing with spices and tarragon.

Ingredients

  • Turkey
  • 2 cups roasted turkey (light and/or dark meat – large slices or shredded)
  • Vinaigrette
  • 3 tablespoons fresh orange juice
  • 3 tablespoons Seven Barrels Raspberry Balsamic Vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons Seven Barrels Meyer Lemon Olive Oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh tarragon, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon fresh garlic, grated
  • 1 teaspoon minced orange zest
  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Bowl
  • 3 cups wild rice, cooked
  • 1 teaspoon orange zest, minced
  • ½ cup chopped walnuts, toasted
  • 6 cups romaine hearts, sliced
  • ¾ cup fresh orange segments, halved
  • ¾ cup celery, sliced
  • ½ cup red onion, sliced
  • ½ cup dried cranberries

Instructions

  1. Prep the cooked turkey breast by shredding the meat into bite sized pieces or slicing it into large pieces for the salad.
  2. For the vinaigrette, whisk together orange juice, Seven Barrels Raspberry Balsamic Vinegar, Seven Barrels Meyer Lemon Olive Oil, tarragon, grated garlic, 1 teaspoon orange zest, cumin, pepper, salt, and cinnamon.
  3. For the bowl, combine cooked wild rice with 1 teaspoon orange zest. Toast chopped walnuts in a small sauté pan over medium-low heat for about 5 minutes until lightly golden brown, set aside.
  4. Divide cooked turkey, rice, romaine, orange segments, celery, red onion and dried cranberries among four serving bowls; drizzle with vinaigrette and garnish with toasted walnuts.

Notes

You can also substitute dried tart cherries, and cooked chicken breast for the cranberries and turkey. Try experimenting with other grains too - quinoa, farro, or brown rice in place of wild rice.

https://www.theartfulgourmet.com/2017/11/wild-rice-turkey-bowl-with-cranberries-and-oranges/

Enjoy and Happy Holidays!

Holiday Sausage, Mushroom and Cheese Turnovers

 

hey guys..the holidays are rapidly approaching and we all know what that means…parties, parties and more parties…full of friends and family sharing delicious food and drinks together. It’s the best time of the year!

Sausage Mushroom Cheese Turnovers

I recently did some recipe development and a photo shoot for one of my clients, Seven Barrels, maker of premium infused Italian olive oils and vinegars with delicious flavors from natural ingredients. For the holidays I created a series of recipes featuring their Raspberry Balsamic Vinegar and Meyer Lemon Olive Oil – a delicious, sweet and tart flavor pairing that’s perfect for the holidays.

Sausage Mushroom Cheese Turnovers

I decided to make some party food because we all like parties and appetizers / small bites are the way to go to keep them fun and social! My recipe for Sausage and Mushroom and Cheese Turnovers is an absolute flavor bomb and they’re super easy to make!

Sausage Mushroom Cheese Turnovers

They’re stuffed with sweet Italian sausage, ricotta cheese, green onions, mushrooms, cranberries and mozzarella all wrapped up in buttery flaky baked puff pastry topped with sesame seeds. They’re the perfect crunchy, savory, cheesy bite in your mouth, with a hint of sweet and tart from the cranberries, lemon olive oil and raspberry vinegar for dipping.

Sausage Mushroom Cheese Turnovers

You’re definitely gonna want to make these for all your holiday parties..trust me, they won’t last long 😉

Sausage, Mushroom and Cheese Turnovers

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Yield: Makes 18 (4-inch) turnovers.

Serving Size: 1 turnover

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons Seven Barrels Meyer Lemon Olive Oil
  • ½ pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
  • ½ cup green onion, sliced (about 4 scallions)
  • ½ cup baby bella mushrooms, chopped
  • ½ cup dried cranberries or tart cherries
  • ¾ cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 ½ cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 2 eggs, beaten, divided
  • 1 tablespoon Seven Barrels Raspberry Balsamic vinegar, plus extra for dipping
  • Dash of Italian seasoning
  • Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 package (17.25 ounce) frozen puff pastry, thawed (2 sheets)
  • 2 tablespoons sesame seeds, for garnish
  • Coarse sea salt, for garnish
  • Chopped rosemary, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons of Seven Barrels Lemon Olive Oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and cook for about 5 minutes until it starts to brown, crumbling while cooking to separate the meat. Add the green onions and mushrooms and cook for another 5 minutes until the veggies are soft and meat is cooked through. Drain the fat and excess liquid, set cooked mixture aside to cool.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked sausage mixture with dried cranberries or tart cherries, ricotta, mozzarella cheese, 1 beaten egg and 1 tablespoon Seven Barrels Raspberry Balsamic vinegar to make the filling. Season with a dash of Italian seasoning, salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  4. On lightly floured surface, roll one sheet of puff pastry into a large 12-inch square. Cut pastry sheet into 9 (4-inch) squares and brush edges with egg wash.
  5. Place 1 rounded teaspoon filling on each square; fold to make a triangle; seal with fingers or fork. Place the triangles on parchment paper or a silicone baking mat on a large rectangular baking sheet and brush egg wash over the top of the turnovers, pierce 3 slits on top of each one, and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
  6. Bake at 400 degrees F for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Meanwhile, repeat steps above with the remaining sheet of puff pastry and sausage, mushroom and cheese filling to make 9 additional turnovers. Bake again at 400 degrees for 15-20 minutes.
  7. Sprinkle sea salt and chopped rosemary (or thyme) on top of the turnovers for garnish. Serve immediately with Seven Barrels Raspberry Balsamic vinegar for dipping.

Notes

You can also substitute spicy Italian sausage or ground beef for the sweet Italian sausage. To make a thicker dipping sauce (Balsamic Glaze), heat the vinegar in a saucepan over medium high heat until it reduces by half, drizzle over turnovers or serve as a dipping sauce on the side.

https://www.theartfulgourmet.com/2017/11/holiday-sausage-mushroom-and-cheese-turnovers/

Balsamic Tomato Basil Pasta w/ Fresh Ricotta

Balsamic Tomato Basil Pasta with Fresh Ricotta

Summer is in full swing, and we all know what that means…TOMATO SEASON! I’m sure you all have a bountiful crop of tomatoes lying around from your garden..and if not, a plentiful supply of them from the farmers market or grocery store. So what better recipe to make with them than a gorgeous, easy Summer pasta dish?

Balsamic Tomato Pasta

Now I know this may sound weird, but I am not a fan of raw tomatoes. Never have, never will. Yeah, I am THAT person. But, when they’re cooked with a plethora of fresh ingredients to sweeten them up and break them down into a gorgeous sauce or salsa? I’m a huge tomato fan once they are transformed into some sweet and savory deliciousness…so here we go. Balsamic Tomato Basil Pasta with Fresh Ricotta.

Balsamic Tomato Pasta

This is truly Summer in a Bowl, my friends. This pasta dish is so simple and fresh you’re gonna love it. I made a lovely chunky sauce with a batch of chopped fresh tomatoes, simmered in 7 Barrels Balsamic Vinegar and their Sweet Basil Olive Oil (omg #LOVE!), with sautéed sweet onions and garlic, red pepper flakes and chicken stock.  Then I tossed the pasta with a little bit of the pasta water, added the cooked balsamic tomato sauce, and topped it with fresh basil, some big dollops of fresh ricotta, and lots of Parmesan cheese. Juicy, sweet, tangy, savory perfection.

Balsamic Tomato Basil Pasta w/ Fresh Ricotta

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Yield: Serves 4-6

Serving Size: 1 cup

This is truly Summer in a Bowl, my friends. Made with fresh tomatoes simmered in 7 Barrels Balsamic Vinegar and Sweet Basil Olive oil, with sautéed sweet onions and garlic making a lovely chunky tomato sauce..topped with fresh basil and ricotta cheese and more Parmesan cheese! And it's so easy to make that you won't be slaving over the stove in this hot weather either. Juicy, sweet, tangy, savory perfection. 

Ingredients

  • 1 pound of pasta, reserving some of the pasta cooking water
  • 1 tablespoon Seven Barrels Sweet Basil extra virgin olive oil
  • 4-6 large tomatoes, diced
  • 1 small onion, diced (about 1/2 cup)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried red pepper flakes
  • 1/2 cup Seven Barrels Traditional Balsamic vinegar
  • 1/4 cup chicken stock
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh ricotta cheese, for garnish
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, torn into pieces, for garnish
  • Sea salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta according to package directions, drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add tomatoes, onions, garlic and red pepper flakes.
  3. Reduce the heat to medium and cook 3 to 5 minutes over medium heat, until onions begin to get soft and lightly browned and tomatoes release some of their liquid.
  4. Place balsamic vinegar, chicken stock, and cornstarch in a small bowl and whisk well. Carefully add it to the skillet and continue to cook for a few minutes more until the sauce slightly thickens; remove from the heat.
  5. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the tomatoes, and toss together over low heat for an additional few minutes until the sauce coats the pasta. Add a small amount of the pasta cooking water if the mixture is too dry, to your desired sauce consistency.
  6. Place the pasta in large bowl and top with fresh grated Parmesan, ricotta cheese, and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Serve hot, immediately with some crusty garlic bread.
https://www.theartfulgourmet.com/2017/08/balsamic-tomato-basil-pasta-w-fresh-ricotta/

Balsamic Tomato Pasta

Yes please, I’ll take another bowl.

Sriracha Mango Grilled Chicken Wings + Spicy Micheladas

Sriracha Mango Chicken Wings + Spicy Micheladas

Summer is here and almost half way over at that! I love grilling anything and everything during the warm weather months so I’ve created a super delish recipe for Sriracha Mango Chicken Wings with a Ginger-Lime Sour Cream dipping sauce and a Spicy Michelada to pair it with.

Sriracha Mango Chicken Wings + Spicy Micheladas

Once again, I’ve used a fantastic infused balsamic vinegar from Seven Barrels, one of my favorite clients ever. The Sriracha Mango vinegar is delicious on chicken so I made a glaze with fresh mango, sriracha, vinegar, fresh lime zest and orange juice to toss the wings in after I grilled them a bit, then glazed them again for extra flavor at the end.

Sriracha Mango Chicken Wings + Spicy Micheladas

They’re spicy and sweet, and oh so good. And I made a lovely Ginger-Lime Sour Cream dipping sauce to cool off the heat a bit, along with a Spicy Michelada made with Mexican beer (Corona) and a dash of the Sriracha Mango vinegar, a dash of salt, and a fresh squeeze of lime juice.

Sriracha Mango Grilled Chicken Wings

Ingredients

  • Chicken Wings: 
  • 2 pounds chicken wings (24 wing pieces)
  • 1/4 cup Seven Barrels Lime Olive Oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic salt
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Vegetable oil or spray, for grill
  • Sriracha Mango Lime Glaze:
  • 1 cup mango, peeled and diced
  • ¼ cup orange juice
  • ¼ cup Sriracha
  • 1 tablespoon Seven Barrels Sriracha Mango Vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Seven Barrels Lime Olive Oil
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon garlic, finely minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
  • 1 small red chile pepper
  • ¼ cup cilantro
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Ginger Lime Sour Cream Dipping Sauce:
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon Seven Barrels Lime Olive Oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic salt
  • 1 teaspoon fresh lime zest
  • ½ teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
  • Michelada:
  • 1 (12 ounce) Corona Beer
  • Fresh lime juice from ½ a lime
  • 1 tablespoon Seven Barrels Sriracha Mango Balsamic Vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
  • Dash of hot sauce
  • Lime wedges, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat (spray or brush pan with a light coat of cooking oil). Toss the chicken wings in 1/4 cup Seven Barrels Lime Olive Oil, and season with salt and pepper. Cook wings on the grill for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until no longer pink and skin starts to get charred with grill marks.
  2. To make the glaze, add the mango, orange juice, Sriracha, Seven Barrels Sriracha Mango Vinegar, Seven Barrels Lime Olive Oil, honey, soy sauce, garlic, chile pepper and cilantro into a food processor and process until smooth. Place the sauce into a saucepan over medium-low heat and let simmer until warmed through while the wings are cooking. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from the heat to a large mixing bowl.
  3. Once the wings are finished cooking, toss them gently in the Sriracha Mango Lime glaze and let them marinate for about 5 minutes or so. Return wings back to the grill for an additional 5 minutes, flipping over once. Remove wings from the grill on to a large platter and let them cool to give them a nice caramelized glaze.
  4. To make the Ginger Lime Sour Cream dipping sauce, stir together the sour cream, Seven Barrels Lime Olive Oil, garlic salt, lime zest and grated ginger in a bowl and serve with the wings with celery and carrot sticks.
  5. NOTE: Alternatively, you can bake the wings for 1 hour at 375 degrees on a large baking sheet covered with foil (and toss them in the sauce at the end).
  6. Makes approximately 24 wings, 1 cup of glaze and ½ cup sour cream sauce.
  7. To make the Michelada: stir all the ingredients into the beer and garnish with a lime wedge.
https://www.theartfulgourmet.com/2017/08/sriracha-mango-grilled-chicken-wings-spicy-micheladas/

Sriracha Mango Chicken Wings + Spicy Micheladas

This really is the quintessential recipe pairing for Summer now, isn’t it?

Sriracha Mango Chicken Wings + Spicy Micheladas

You can also try the glaze on pork chops or even add some grilled shrimp – it’s absolutely delicious and you can always adjust the heat by adding or removing some of the Sriracha hot sauce. Or maybe making it even hotter by adding in a dash of habanero hot sauce to the mix – now, this recipe is on FIRE!

Sriracha Mango Chicken Wings + Spicy Micheladas

Perfect for a lovely evening outside with friends, watching the sun go down…that’s #howisummer 🙂

Coffee Marinated Steak

Now that Summer is rapidly approaching, I am so excited about getting outdoors to enjoy the warm weather and especially cooking outdoors with friends and family. Grilling is one of my favorite ways to cook in warm weather months, simply because it’s so easy and a healthy way to cook, and it usually takes place with a group of friends outside making fun memories and laughter to go with it.

I recently went down to Atlanta where I used to live to visit some old friends and we had a blast grilling outside on my friend’s outdoor BBQ grill in her backyard. We sat around the grill and made grilled sliders, shrimp, jalapeno poppers, and wings (with lots of snacks and drinks to go with of course!) It reminded me of the good old days when I used to live there… living and working in NYC we don’t get the opportunity to grill much anymore and it’s a precious occasion when I go to visit my friends and family who live in greener pastures.

One of my favorite things to make is a big juicy grilled steak..it’s always a tasty treat, easy to prepare and everyone loves it…especially with some grilled vegetables, salad, potatoes and a glass of wine or beer while sitting out on the patio dining al fresco watching the sunset.

My go-to Summer recipe is Coffee Marinated Steaks, which I know you’re gonna love. The marinade has a light smoky essence from the coffee (I use Gourmesso House Blend Lungo Dark coffee, an espresso alternative to Nepresso capsules,  with a beautiful dark and rich flavor; some spicy heat from the red chilies and black peppercorns; a touch of sweetness from the brown sugar; and is balanced out with a slight tanginess from the balsamic vinegar, Dale’s seasoning (or soy sauce), mustard, shallots and garlic. You simply mix all the ingredients together in a blender or food processor, then marinade the steaks for an hour or up to overnight for some really delicious flavor.

Then simply pop them on the grill for about 8-10 minutes and you have the most juicy, flavorful and delicious steaks you’ve ever tasted in your life. Not to mention, a great idea for Father’s Day to spoil Dad! Click here to see more of my grilling ideas and recipes for Father’s Day.

Ah, Summertime and the livin’s easy…Enjoy J

Coffee Marinated Steak

Prep Time: 1 hour, 15 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour

Yield: 4

Serving Size: 1 (12-14 ounce) Strip Steak

My go-to Summer recipe is Gourmesso Coffee Marinated Steaks, which I know you’re gonna love. The marinade has a light smoky essence from the coffee (I use Gourmesso House Blend Lungo Dark coffee, which is an espresso (alternative to Nepresso capsules) that has a beautiful dark and rich flavor; some spicy heat from the red chilies and black peppercorns; a touch of sweetness from the brown sugar; and is balanced out with a slight tanginess from the balsamic vinegar, Dale’s seasoning/soy, mustard, shallots and garlic.

Ingredients

  • 1 shallot, minced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup Gourmesso House Blend Lungo Dark coffee, room temp
  • ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
  • ¼ cup Dijon mustard
  • 1/8 cup low-sodium Dale’s seasoning (or dark soy sauce)
  • ¼ cup brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon red paprika
  • 3 small red chilies
  • 1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns, crushed
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • Coarse Kosher salt
  • 4 (12-14 ounce) boneless Strip steaks

Instructions

  1. In a food processor or blender, add the shallots, garlic, Gourmesso coffee, balsamic vinegar, Dale’s sauce/soy sauce, brown sugar, paprika, chilies, peppercorns, and olive oil and kosher salt and blend together well. Pour half the marinade in a glass dish or large plastic ziptop bag, add the steaks and toss to coat with the marinade. Seal and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to overnight. Cover the remaining marinade and set aside in the fridge until ready to grill.
  2. Heat grill to medium-high and lightly oil the grill rack. Remove steak from marinade and discard the remaining marinade. Bring steaks to room temperature before grilling.
  3. Season the steaks with salt and pepper and place on grill. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare (less or more according to desired doneness), basting occasionally with remaining marinade.
  4. Transfer steak to a cutting board and let rest tented in foil for 5 minutes. Serve with grilled vegetables or a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette and a glass of wine. Enjoy!

Notes

You can make the marinade up to a day ahead of time and store in the fridge with the steaks in a plastic bag or covered dish.

https://www.theartfulgourmet.com/2017/05/gourmesso-coffee-marinated-steak/

Cheesy Baked Pasta w/ Sausage & Summer Veggies

Cheesy Baked Pasta with Sausage and Summer Veggies

Ah, it’s almost the end of Summer and I keep thinking, where has it gone? Along with Summer comes lots of fresh veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, mushrooms and yellow squash that I just can’t get enough of!

Colavita

I recently received a lovely care package from my client Colavita, who sent me some delicious pasta, sauces, olive oils and vinegars to sample, which inspired me to make this Cheesy Baked Pasta with Sausage and Summer Veggies. 

Cheesy Baked Pasta with Sausage and Summer Veggies

It’s a tasty and healthy twist on traditional Baked Ziti, using Colavita Fusilli pasta with sweet Italian sausage and lots of colorful summer veggies like zucchini, squash, bell peppers, mushrooms, onions and garlic. I sautéed everything in Colavita Extra Virgin olive oil with a splash of Colavita Chardonnay White Balsamic vinegar for some extra sweet and tangy flavor.

Cheesy Baked Pasta with Sausage and Summer Veggies

I used their Colavita Tomato Basil sauce mixed in to the pasta and veggies along with fresh oregano and basil. AND it has three (3!!) cheeses: ricotta, parmesan/asiago and mozzarella to make it super creamy and cheesy – all baked into a big pot of bubbly goodness.

Cheesy Baked Pasta with Sausage and Summer Veggies

Look. At. This. Cheesy Baked Pasta Goodness. YUM.

Cheesy Baked Pasta with Sausage and Summer Veggies

It’s the perfect dish for a quick and healthy weeknight dinner – and is great served with a green salad and some crusty Italian bread (dipped in Colavita olive oil and vinegar of course!) Enjoy!

Cheesy Baked Pasta w/ Sausage and Summer Veggies

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour

Yield: 6-8

This is a tasty and healthy twist on traditional Baked Ziti, using Colavita Rotini pasta with Italian Sausage and lots of colorful summer veggies like zucchini, squash, mushrooms, onions and garlic! It also features Colavita Tomato Basil sauce mixed with three cheeses: ricotta, parmesan/asiago and mozzarella to make it super creamy and cheesy baked into a big pot of bubbly goodness. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner served with a green salad and crusty Italian bread.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound Colavita Fusilli pasta, uncooked
  • 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, ground
  • 2 tablespoons Colavita Extra Virgin olive oil, divided
  • 1 tablespoon Colavita Chardonnay White Balsamic vinegar
  • 1 cup yellow squash, chopped
  • 1 cup zucchini, chopped
  • 1 cup mushrooms, chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1-16 ounce jar Colavita Tomato Basil sauce
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup Parmesan/Asiago cheese, grated
  • 1 cup part-skim ricotta cheese
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
  • 2 teaspoons fresh oregano, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt (add more to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (add more to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta according to package directions (about 9 minutes for al dente), drain.
  2. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
  3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add one tablespoon of olive oil to the pan. Cook sausage until no longer pink, drain fat and set aside.
  4. Add additional tablespoon of olive oil to the pan, and add squash, zucchini, mushrooms and bell pepper. Saute for 5-7 minutes until soft. Add minced garlic and balsamic vinegar and cook for another minute or two. Add the cooked sausage back into the pan.
  5. Stir in the tomato sauce, 1/2 cup of mozzarella and 1/2 cup of Parmesan/Asiago cheese and reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and cook for another 5 minutes until cheese is melted.
  6. Meanwhile, add the ricotta cheese to a mixing bowl and stir in beaten egg, fresh herbs, salt, pepper and red pepper flakes.
  7. Place the cooked pasta in a large pot and add the sausage-veggie-tomato sauce mixture, stirring well. Fold in the ricotta-egg-herbs mixture until thoroughly combined.
  8. Spoon the pasta mixture into an 8x8 square glass or ceramic baking dish. Sprinkle with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan/Asiago cheese evenly over the top.
  9. Bake at 400 degrees F for 15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and browned.
  10. Let cool for a few minutes, serve hot with a green salad and crusty Italian bread.

Notes

You can also substitute Colavita penne, shells, farfalle or ziti for the fusilli pasta.

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https://www.theartfulgourmet.com/2016/08/cheesy-baked-pasta-w-sausage-summer-veggies/

Cheesy Baked Pasta with Sausage and Summer Veggies

Cheesy Baked Pasta with Sausage and Summer Veggies

Colavita has a great line of Italian gourmet food, olive oils, vinegars, pastas,  condiments and other specialty foods, which makes them one of my favorite brands for quality Italian cooking.

Check out their Facebook page, Twitter page, Pinterest and Instagram pages for more great recipes and cooking ideas!

Note: I received complimentary products from Colavita but was not compensated for this post. All photos, copy, recipes and opinions are my own. Please do not share, distribute or use any content without my permission.