Archives for March 2015

Tomato Herb Salsa

This is one of the most versatile salsas that I have ever made. This Tomato Herb Salsa has graced our table through many types of events, from Happy Hour to Block Parties to many summertime meals and Back Yard BBQs.

Fresh Tomato Herb Salsa

I have served this Tomato Herb Salsa for appetizer parties to accompany pita crisps (do you know about pita crisps?); for flatbreads; for bruschetta; for quesadillas; for pizzas; to top hubby’s famous hamburgers; and most recently, to garnish the top of Home Welcoming Hearty Black Bean Soup. It will be a welcome addition to your appetizer repertoire. Pour a glass of wine for your guests while you prepare this quick and easy salsa. Grab a bag of sturdy chips and enjoy this fresh salsa.

Hearty Black Bean Soup with Fresh Tomato Herb Salsa

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HOME WELCOMING HEARTY BLACK BEAN SOUP

By Denise Pare-Watson

The Confident Kitchen Series

We have experienced typical March weather – in like a lion and out like a lamb. On one particular day this month, on a short drive home after a grocery outing, the weather patterns provided a complete flip-flop ranging from sun, rain, sleet, snow, slush, wind, and then rain again. My drive home ended with a beautiful rainbow. It was definitely an awe-inspiring moment. As beautiful as this scene was, the chill in the air made me long for something comforting and warm. No question that a hearty soup was in order – Home Welcoming Hearty Black Bean Soup.

This is a soup that is easily and quickly made using common pantry ingredients. It tastes even better the next day and it also freezes well. If you have never used cumin before, I encourage you to try this recipe. Cumin has a distinct fragrance and gives this soup its smoky earthy flavour. Cooking the cumin, paprika and cayenne first in the oil/vegetable mixture releases the spice oils and heightens the flavours of the soup. This recipe for Home Welcoming Hearty Black Bean Soup recipe with Fresh Tomato Herb Salsa is one of my favourites and ready to eat in 30 minutes. Serve with chunks of good hearty bread and Cheddar Cheese.

Hearty Black Bean Soup with Yogurt Swirl and Fresh Tomato Herb Salsa

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Italian Almond Macaroons

By Denise Pare-Watson

In my recent post called Gluten Free Tips and Techniques, I answered many questions regarding ideas for gluten-free salads, entrees, appetizers and of course, desserts. I also included this particular recipe for Italian Almond Macaroons and felt that this recipe deserved a separate recipe page of its own. It is one of my go-to cookies to make when I am looking for a crunchy cookie to serve with something creamy like crème brulée or Sabayon. These delicious cookies are Gluten Free, Grain Free and Dairy Free Cookies, therefore fit many categories of desserts for guests with dietary restrictions. They were so popular, in fact, customers were waiting for them to come out of the oven at an organic bakery where I worked. I hope you like them, too!

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Gluten Free Tips and Techniques

By Denise Pare-Watson

The Confident Kitchen Series

Featuring a recipe for Gluten Free Italian Almond Macaroons

There are many reasons why I am writing a post on Gluten-Free Tips and Techniques. We all have gatherings of every kind: from book clubs to cookie exchanges, birthday celebrations to holiday open houses and seasonal events. One of the questions I am often asked is “what can I make my gluten intolerant or gluten sensitive guests”?

This is a question that sometimes makes dinner hosts and event organizers very nervous. This article will focus briefly on some tips and techniques that I have developed during my culinary career regarding gluten-free products and recipes.

: Gluten Free, Grain Free chicken & vegetable dinner

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