Recipezaar: Californian,Beginner Cook recipes

Edamame

Tue, 11 Dec 2007 17:15:11 -0500

Adapted from "The Edible Asian Garden" by Rosalind Creasy. -- posted by Missy Wombat

Busy Night Microwave Wet Burritos

Wed, 12 Dec 2007 01:12:22 -0500

This is an old stand-by in my house! I always have the ingredients on hand, and my hubby loves them! Shhhh...don't tell him how easy they are!!! You can add anything you'd like to these! I like adding some leftover recipe #161522 inside! -- posted by Charmie777

Cal-Mex Cranberry Salsa

Fri, 14 Dec 2007 17:54:32 -0500

This salsa comes from the Border Grill, an upscale restaurant in Santa Monica, that features Modern Mexican cuisine. This salsa recipe was featured in their holiday newsletter. I like to serve it with dippers cut from left over turkey. I'll try it next on a turkey torta (Mexican sandwich). -- posted by lynnski / LA

Christmas Pajas (Cookies)

Sun, 16 Dec 2007 19:18:43 -0500

This Modern Mexican cookie is almost like a candy. -- posted by lynnski / LA

Big Hit Easy Make Mashed Potatoes

Wed, 26 Dec 2007 19:19:40 -0500

Everyone can make mashed potatoes but too often the flavor is missing something. This one is missing nothing. :) -- posted by Rob in Malibu, CA, United States

West Coast Brownies

Sun, 30 Dec 2007 19:31:19 -0500

I think I picked this recipe up from one of Maida Heatter's books. Wherever it came from, these are lovely, sophisticated brownies that have a kiss of espresso flavor, making them a perfect adult treat and a sure thing for garnering compliments. -- posted by DeSouter

Beef Avocado Pockets

Thu, 03 Jan 2008 01:30:36 -0500

Beef and avocado are a lovely combination, especially in this well seasoned pita bread sandwich recipe. -- posted by Annacia

Whisky Cake

Mon, 07 Jan 2008 20:52:16 -0500

A dense buttery cake that disappears quickly! -- posted by donnacooks!

Egg White and Avocado Salad

Wed, 23 Jan 2008 12:02:21 -0500

Saw this prepared on Martha Stewart's tv show this morning and just had to copy it here for safekeeping...Looks like a really flavorful and healthy way to have egg salad! -- posted by Cookin'withGas

Vegan Oatmeal Cranberry Cookies (Sugar Free)

Tue, 29 Jan 2008 21:09:37 -0500

I was looking for classically delicious vegan oatmeal cookie recipe, that was lower in fat and sugar--I stumbled upon one that needed a lot of tweaking and this is what it has become. Everyone who has tried these loves them and you can't even tell that these are vegan, or sugar free to boot. Happy baking! -- posted by MellyLou

Baja Chipotle Cream Sauce

Sun, 03 Feb 2008 20:47:50 -0500

The Ultimate chipotle sauce for chicken or fish tacos. This sauce recipe is requested by everybody that has tried it. Now you too, have the ultimate Baja Chipotle Cream Sauce. Please enjoy! -- posted by The Firehouse Cook

Chasen's Coupe Snowball Dessert

Wed, 05 Mar 2008 18:45:28 -0500

This very simple dessert had been served at the famous Chasen's Restaurant which closed in 1995. The recipe is from the Los Angeles Public Library, Archive of Old Menus. -- posted by lynnski / LA

Chasen's Cheese Toast

Thu, 06 Mar 2008 01:27:20 -0500

This cheese toast is especially good with Chasen's spinach salad. Recipe from the Los Angeles Central Library's, Archive of Old Menus. -- posted by lynnski / LA

Eclectic Potato Salad

Fri, 07 Mar 2008 00:19:55 -0500

Recipe dates from before 1900 AD and is a cross between French and American versions of the Potato Salad. Very tasty and easy to prepare. -- posted by Celticevergreen

Tomato, Bacon and Cottage Cheese

Thu, 27 Mar 2008 02:20:11 -0400

I came up with this because I wanted a light and healthy alternative for breakfast. I hope you love it as much as we do. -- posted by Humble Bee

Profound Black Bean Dip

Mon, 31 Mar 2008 00:02:48 -0400

I really don't know how to name recipes, so I used the first adjective that came to mind. I found a similar recipe online and have tweaked it for a few years. Just a simple bean dip to eat with chips. Warm and filling and good. I eat it as a snack or a meal. This makes quite a bit. If you're like me, you want to make as much as you can to get several meals or snacks out of one preparation. If you don't need that much, it's easily halved. It's also very flexible. Toss in peppers or red onions or salsa or bacon, if that suits your fancy. -- posted by Cleoppa

Logs

Mon, 31 Mar 2008 22:46:12 -0400

I get special requests to make these. I always double the recipe. Enjoy! -- posted by TasteFullyDone

Lemon Chicken Soup

Mon, 31 Mar 2008 22:54:32 -0400

A light and flavorful lemon check soup with fresh ingredients. Low Fat. I found this recipe on the Internet when I was looking for a Greek lemon soup recipe. I did not want a recipe that asked for egg yolks. I am posting the recipe with my revisions to the original. -- posted by Chef #804551

Key Lime Cheese Ball

Thu, 03 Apr 2008 17:07:49 -0400

Prep time does include the 2 hour refrigeration time. This is a fabulous recipe that I adapted from a key lime cheesecake recipe so I could serve a key lime cheese ball. NO more using that icky key lime powdered mix or jell-o! I serve cinnamon graham crackers, croissant and pound cake with this lovely creation. I have also served oven baked flour tortillas sprinkled with cinnamon sugar. RECIPE HAS BEEN EDITED TO REFLECT THE CORRECT INGREDIENT AMOUNTS WHICH LED TO THE FIRST 2 POSTERS CHEESE BALL NOT FORMING A BALL. -- posted by Humble Bee

Grandma's Best Ever Banana Nut Bread

Fri, 18 Apr 2008 17:26:30 -0400

This is dark, rich and moist. It is sweet and flavorful and I am told unlike any other people have tasted. Some liken it Mimi's Cafe, but say it is better. My mother, Belen, who passed away at the age of 100 had been making this for as long as I can remember. Please follow the instructions regarding putting the vinegar in the milk in one cup and the baking soda in warm water in another before mixing it with other ingredients. It makes a difference. -- posted by Chef Lunita

Chasen's Chili Mac

Fri, 18 Apr 2008 20:45:15 -0400

Chasen loved good old fashioned comfort food and had it available off menu for his guests who asked for it. This one was a fave. The chili listed is Chasen's Chili, recipe # 288648; and the cheese toast is recipe # 290546. Information from the historic archives of the Los Angeles Public Library. -- posted by lynnski / LA

Baked Fruit Wrap

Tue, 06 May 2008 23:25:21 -0400

This recipe was a result of boredom one night at work in a local pizza place. Everything is changeable to specific tastes, this is just what we had around. This is really good with a caramel sauce to dip. -- posted by ::~::Rowen Jeanne::~::

Gilroy Garlic Festival Wowchos

Fri, 16 May 2008 13:05:53 -0400

Wowchos are similar to nachos, but with lots of garlic. This recipe won first place at the ''83 Garlic Festival , an annual event held in Gilroy, California, garlic capital of the world. The garlic mellows out while baking, so it tastes much better than it sounds. Garlic affectionados usually add even more garlic to the recipe. -- posted by lynnski / LA

Summer Baked Fruit

Wed, 28 May 2008 23:29:08 -0400

A very healthy snack or breakfast recipe from The Organic Baby and Toddler Cookbook (great for adults too). Serve with vanilla yogurt and a sprinkling of nuts-YUM! -- posted by Motivated Mama

Spinach Nuggets

Fri, 06 Jun 2008 00:41:43 -0400

This is a very easy, very healthy and very yummy recipe from wholesometoddlerfood.com. It's great for kids but I have been asked to make it for adult social events. It shocks people because it is so healthy yet looks and tastes "unhealthy". -- posted by Motivated Mama

Breakfast Surprise

Sat, 07 Jun 2008 18:50:44 -0400

A great little breakfast or snack from The Organic Baby and Toddler Cookbook -- posted by Motivated Mama

Hidden Nutrition Pita Pizza

Tue, 10 Jun 2008 00:49:20 -0400

A quick and easy lunch or dinner I created for my two year old. She eats tofu, but I hid it under the cheese to keep the pizza looking "normal" :) . She gobbles it up and I found that I really enjoy eating it too! (measurements are rough) -- posted by Motivated Mama

P, B And.... A?!

Tue, 10 Jun 2008 00:57:12 -0400

Forget all the sugar in jelly! Change things up with this twist on the classic peanut butter sandwich. -- posted by Motivated Mama

Yogurt & Granola Fruit Salad

Tue, 01 Jul 2008 02:21:47 -0400

I love fruit, granola, and yogurt so why not put them all together?! This is a very fresh, flavorful salad with a wonderful granola crunch. (Great with recipe #311501 ) **As noted by the review, if you add the granola too soon before serving, it will get soggy!** -- posted by Motivated Mama

Baked Potato Soup

Wed, 09 Jul 2008 18:49:24 -0400

This soup is satisfying without being heavy and leaving you in carb-coma. It is rich, creamy and filling. Serve with a nice salad and a glass of cold iced tea and you have a perfect meal that will not bust your diet! Occasionally, I have been known to sprinkle a few fat free croûtons on top for added texture and crunch. A great way to use up left over baked potatoes, or bake off a few extra the next time you bake potatoes and store them in the fridge up to 4 days in a sealed container. -- posted by Humble Bee

Garlic Fries - the Real Deal

Wed, 09 Jul 2008 19:11:38 -0400

Living in California, I have tried every garlic fry out there and they all have too much garlic, too much/not enough salt or they are dry on the inside and lack the crispy crunch on the outside. Here is a better built Garlic Fry that leaves you satisfied without the all the fat and calories of the traditional version. Please note that fresh garlic should be used, as the jarred versions will overpower this recipe immensely. -- posted by Humble Bee

Tomato Basil Bread - by Hand or Bread Machine

Wed, 16 Jul 2008 17:50:04 -0400

This breads' chewy crust pairs well with a steaming mug of soup. The pretty color and robust flavor are a great pairing with chicken or turkey cold cuts or a summer tomato sandwich. I use this basic recipe in my bread machine using the dough cycle; following my bread machines instructions. I then bake it in the oven. I also omit the red pepper flakes and, at times, omit the Parmesan cheese and replace it with an additional 1/4 cup of flour. Be careful and add additional flour a little at a time depending on the humidity in your kitchen. -- posted by Humble Bee

Carrot Spice Cake

Wed, 30 Jul 2008 01:18:06 -0400

This is a very old Le Leche League recipe from an old friend Sylvia. Simply the best carrot spice cake I have ever baked or eaten that includes my DH's carrot cake! It is so easy to make this dense rich tasting cake! -- posted by oilpatchjo

Point Reyes Original Blue Cheese Compound Butter

Thu, 31 Jul 2008 00:42:56 -0400

This great compound butter is very easy to make. The recipe yields enough in order to make a batch that can be kept in the freezer. From the roll that will be formed, cut what you need and defrost in the refrigerator a day before using. Let the butter sit at room temperature for thirty minutes before cutting medallions and serving on steaks, veal chops and hamburgers. -- posted by Humble Bee

Grilled Blue Cheese Butter Burgers

Tue, 05 Aug 2008 17:14:59 -0400

For this recipe you will need Recipe #316743. I have been struggling with a way to make blue cheese burgers and not have the blue cheese fall out while I was stuffing the hamburger. I finally thought about making a compound butter and it works fabulously, not to mention the incredible flavor and moisture that is added to the meat. Doing it this way makes it very easy to assemble the burgers, as well as keeping the burgers from having 'blue cheese blow out' while cooking. You can make these on the stove top, broiler or on the BBQ grill. I strongly recommend the BBQ grill because the flavors are just incredible when a charcoal grill is used. -- posted by Humble Bee

Luxurious Angel Food Ambrosia Cake

Tue, 19 Aug 2008 01:49:37 -0400

A fantastic cake that does not weigh you down. The presentation is very impressive and the cake is simply luscious, fresh and very satisfying without being heavy. -- posted by Humble Bee

White Cucumber Gazpacho

Tue, 19 Aug 2008 02:41:03 -0400

Served cold, this refreshing soup can be served as a light lunch on a hot day or as a first course for a special summertime dinner party. -- posted by Humble Bee

Jalapeno Cream Sauce for Pasta

Tue, 19 Aug 2008 02:43:13 -0400

This recipe can be used with any fresh pasta found at your local grocery store or home made pasta. Its creamy with a little kick of spice. -- posted by kmergirl

Green Chili-Cheese Compound Butter

Thu, 21 Aug 2008 14:26:22 -0400

This is a fabulous compound butter for fish, corn bread or muffins, corn on the cob or just to slather across a slice of bread. This butter freezes well as long as it is protected from the beastly odors that live in your freezer. Make sure to wrap well in plastic wrap and place in a Ziploc freezer bag. Or place in a container with a tight fitting lid placing plastic wrap on top- in contact with the butter itself. -- posted by Humble Bee

Mushroom Crostini

Thu, 28 Aug 2008 19:41:03 -0400

These are very delicious, indeed! An incredible appetizer to tickle the appetite. From the Panera Bread Cookbook. -- posted by Humble Bee

Overnight Brunch Casserole

Thu, 28 Aug 2008 19:43:25 -0400

This easy brunch casserole will become everyone's favorite and it's so easy! Choose a French or Sourdough Bread to give it the Panera touch. From the Panera Bread Cookbook. -- posted by Humble Bee

Sourdough With Jalapeno Cheese Spread

Fri, 26 Sep 2008 18:45:45 -0400

I made a big pot of my chili and had a loaf of homemade sourdough bread leftover from the day before. I wanted something different from the usual garlic bread or corn bread, one typically serves with chili. I opened the fridge and this cheese spread is what I came forth. A wonderful spread, dip and as you'll find out, perfect for spreading on sourdough or French bread and heating under the broiler. -- posted by Humble Bee

California Salad

Tue, 30 Sep 2008 00:26:44 -0400

My version of the classic Greek salad (or salata horiatiki). No olives, so a lot less salt, but really yummy -- my guests all rave. -- posted by chakrates

Creamy Chive Dressing Cafe for All-Seasons

Thu, 09 Oct 2008 18:47:58 -0400

This recipe, from the April 1994 issue of Gourmet Magazine is a response to a request in the "You Asked for It" column for a salad dressing served at Cafe for All-Seasons in San Francisco, California. -- posted by Chef Regina V. Smith

Sweettreats Buttercream Frosting

Thu, 23 Oct 2008 13:20:30 -0400

I have been decorating cakes for 8 years and this is my go to frosting recipe. I have tried many recipes and keep coming back to my original recipe. Make sure to purchase hi ratio shortening from a cake decorating supply store. Other shortenings will make your icing greasy. If you let the icing crust for 10 minutes after icing your cake you can use a paper towel to imprint a pattern on the top and edges of your cake. -- posted by sweettreats00

Ham Avocado Cream Cheese Sandwiches the Hac

Wed, 29 Oct 2008 18:01:47 -0400

Artery clogging wondrous sandwich -- posted by Chef #568112

Pampered

Mon, 03 Nov 2008 01:15:55 -0500

When I want to pamper myself after rushing around in the morning getting the kids fed, dressed and 3 carpools later. I brew fresh espresso, add my three favs...Amarula, Creme de Cocao and Chambord. Take a moment and pamper yourself too. -- posted by Vseward (Chef~V)

Sweettreats Ultimate Chocolate Chip Cookies

Tue, 04 Nov 2008 22:42:53 -0500

This has to be by far the best chocolate chip cookie recipe I have tried. You won't be able to eat just one. I have tweaked the recipe just a little to come up with the ultimate cookie. -- posted by sweettreats00

Mexican Chorizo Cornbread Stuffing

Thu, 13 Nov 2008 18:01:36 -0500

This is the stuffing recipe used in my family at Thanksgiving. You can assemble the dressing (up to the baking) up to 2 days ahead; cover and chill. Remove from refrigerator about 3 hours before baking to bring to room temperature. -- posted by Celticevergreen

Low-Fat Ranch Dressing and Dip Mix

Thu, 27 Nov 2008 15:49:21 -0500

Inexpensive, tasty, and msg-free Ranch dressing mix. I keep the mix ready in the spice cabinet so I am always ready to throw some fresh dressing together. -- posted by Ametista

Month Long Bran Muffins

Mon, 01 Dec 2008 18:00:10 -0500

These baked muffins store in the fridge for month! In the rush of the morning, I love taking a muffin out of the fridge, heat it and run out the door. This recipe is for 24 but you can easily double it. -- posted by chef 863944

Italian Chicken Sub

Wed, 03 Dec 2008 01:47:37 -0500

This makes a terrific weeknight dinner. Cooked chicken and marinara sauce makes this quick and easy and tastes delicious. My family loves this recipe and it is requested several times a month. -- posted by Vseward (Chef~V)

Montezuma Pie

Fri, 05 Dec 2008 18:42:22 -0500

This Cal-Mex dish is from an old cookbook that my grandmother used during the 1960's. -- posted by Celticevergreen

Warsaw Salad

Tue, 09 Dec 2008 01:21:59 -0500

This recipe is adapted from one published in the Los Angeles Times about 20 years ago; they were featuring Polish food in that issue. This salad is perfect with cold Polish sausage or ham and some East European type bread. It makes a good lunch or a light supper. Note: most of the prep time is standing time, this is an easy recipe. -- posted by lynnski / LA

The Dreidel - Cocktail

Tue, 09 Dec 2008 22:16:54 -0500

Created by Nopa Bar in San Fransisco. You need to shake the cocktail very hard, almost violently, to be sure that the egg white emulsifies. -- posted by Jess4Freedom

Chicken & Dried Plum Pizza

Mon, 29 Dec 2008 19:52:43 -0500

This is a recipe I got off the back of a package of Mariani-brand Pitted, Dried Plums. It's from the California, Dried Plum Board. This looks really healthy and seems like a nice idea for a lady's luncheon or anytime you want to bring a little something different or a healthier alternative to that otherwise fattening potluck table! -- posted by Recipe Junkie

Black Eyed Peas With Hamburger (Pinquito Style)

Thu, 01 Jan 2009 14:43:00 -0500

Pinquinto beans are a small pink bean that is very pouplar on the Central Coast of California, where I used to live. I have adapted my Pinquito bean recipe to work with Black Eyed Peas. The main reason I have posted so few recipes is because I cook by feel, rather than measuring and I rarely make the same thing exactly the same way, over and over. This recipe is VERY flexible. If you want it more like beans, use more Black Eyes, if you want it more like soup, use less. The cooking time includes 1-1/2 hours cook time for the Black Eyes. -- posted by personalchef

Ginger-Sesame Tofu Sauce by Deborah Madison

Thu, 01 Jan 2009 15:06:22 -0500

Entered for safe-keeping, requesting my vegetarian friends to test this for me. From "This Can't Be Tofu!" by Deborah Madison. This has the texture of a thin mayonnaise, and can be drizzled on cubes of fresh tofu, over romaine salad or cole slaw, or over grilled fish or chicken (if you aren't vegetarian). Over sauteed vegetables this can add an unexpected accent. -- posted by KateL

Maple Bar Cake

Tue, 13 Jan 2009 02:25:46 -0500

If you like Maple Bar doughnuts with the sugared maple frosting, you'll love this cake! Found this recipe featured in the Food Section of our local newspaper and tweaked it a tad. My family loved how it tastes just like their favorite doughnut. -- posted by Vseward (Chef~V)

Easy As Tamale Pie

Tue, 13 Jan 2009 20:23:58 -0500

Time saving and delicious tamale pie the whole family will love! This is a recipe that you can add any of your own favorites too. -- posted by Chef #1126717

Date Muffins With Streusel Topping

Tue, 20 Jan 2009 23:35:20 -0500

These muffins are inspired by sticky toffee pudding. The recipe is from a great new cookbook, "Eat Feed Autumn Winter: 30 Ways to Celebrate When the Mercury Drops", by Anne Bramley. -- posted by blucoat

Vegetarian Chili from the Gene Autry Museum of Western Heritage

Mon, 02 Feb 2009 01:57:08 -0500

Vegetarian chili? From a cowboy museum? Yup! It's delicious, even better the next day; and a best seller at the Golden Spur Cafe at the museum. The recipe was published in the reader request column of the Los Angeles Times. -- posted by lynnski / LA

Baked Chop Suey

Wed, 04 Feb 2009 18:44:17 -0500

From our church cookbook. -- posted by Recipe Junkie

Orange-Cabbage Slaw

Mon, 16 Feb 2009 01:22:27 -0500

Entered for safe-keeping. From First 3/09/09, this was a big hit when originally printed in the magazine in 1994. Cooking time is chilling time. -- posted by KateL

Golden Raisin and Pecan Salad

Mon, 16 Feb 2009 01:25:05 -0500

Entered for safe-keeping. From First 3/09/09. This was a big hit when it was originally printed in 2006. -- posted by KateL

Kashi Golean Granola/Snack Bars (No Bake)

Mon, 16 Feb 2009 09:45:53 -0500

These are SO easy! I am always on the look out for high protien, high fiber foods. I created this recipe on a whim and was incredibly impressed with the outcome... Good for you AND tasty!! Practically perfection in my book! It's made from Kashi Go Lean cereal which has 10g of fiber, 13g of protien and only 1g of fat per serving. There is lots of room for variation so have fun adding your own favorite fillers. -- posted by Motivated Mama

Low Fat Vinaigrette With Yogurt or Tomato or Avocado Variations

Tue, 17 Mar 2009 19:29:19 -0400

Entered for safe-keeping. From Martha Rose Shulman's "Fast Vegetarian Feasts", received in February 2009 Cookbook Swap. A little bit of oil can go a long way. Instead of whisking, use a blender to make a fairly thick, emulsified mixture. You can vary this with any herbs or spices you wish (the 2-3 teaspoons of fresh herbs can be any combination you prefer, suggested herbs are listed). The author recommends the yogurt variation when "you want to eat nothing but salads, but have to work in protein." I recommend the Avocado variation during the maintenance phase of WW, because the avocado has healthy fat and aids digestion if your calories permit. See Recipe #361079 #361079 for a tasty broth variation. -- posted by KateL

Auntie Em's Kitchen Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

Thu, 19 Mar 2009 01:38:46 -0400

These delicious oatmeal cookies have crisp outer edges and wonderfully chewy centers. The recipe is from chef Michelle Risucci of "Auntie Em's Kitchen" in Eagle Rock and was printed in the LA Times (Feb. 25, 2009 ). These make very large cookies. If you make smaller cookies, be sure to watch the baking time. -- posted by blucoat

Rustic Canyon's Cranberry Orange Cornmeal Cake

Thu, 19 Mar 2009 16:01:12 -0400

This beautifully rustic cornmeal cake has light notes of vanilla and maple, with ricotta folded into the batter just before baking for extra-moist texture. The cake is on the dessert menu at the wonderful Santa Monica restaurant, Rustic Canyon. It was created by their pastry chef Zoe Nathan and was printed in the LA Times (Oct. 29, 2008 ). It's a great do-ahead cake, as it tastes even better the next day. Recipe can be halved- it will take about half the time to bake. -- posted by blucoat

Lafd Engine Co. No. 28's Vegetarian Black Bean Chili

Sat, 21 Mar 2009 02:46:58 -0400

Engine Co. No. 28, is a popular L.A. restaurant located in an historic building, which was constructed in 1912 as a Los Angeles Fire Department firehouse, which housed 2 engine companies. In 1912 LA's population was 400,000; and New Mexico and Arizona were being admitted into the Union. A trip to the restaurant, established in the 1980's has been called a "a big hug from America"; it serves American favorites and some history. Some cooking notes: although you can use canned beans equalling 4 cups, the restaurant uses dried beans starting with a one pound package which will yield about 4 cups of cooked beans. This chili is best when made one day in advance. The flavors develop better. When reheating, add water if necessary and heat slowly to avoid scorching. The recipe had been published in the Los Angeles Times, reader request column. -- posted by lynnski / LA

Easy Western-Style Breakfast Quesadillas for Hungry Cowboys!

Thu, 26 Mar 2009 15:16:47 -0400

These quick & easy western-style fried egg and cheese quesadillas make a satisfying breakfast, brunch, lunch, or even a light supper! Serve with your choice of sour cream, fresh tomato slices, salsa fresca, lime wedges or guacamole. Add a cup of soup or pinto beans for cowboys with big appetites! Recipe may be doubled, tripled or quadrupled, etc. Muy delicioso!! -- posted by BecR

Peruvian Vegetable Stew

Tue, 14 Apr 2009 01:48:23 -0400

Disks of sweet and spicy corn distinguish this traditional Peruvian squash stew. It's an easy to make main dish stew that uses butternut squash along with frozen peas and squash. The recipe comes from Cuidad Restaurant in downtown Los Angeles. Cuidad specializes in latino cuisine from various Spanish speaking countries. -- posted by lynnski / LA

Tuscan Tomato Bread Salad

Sun, 26 Apr 2009 21:11:13 -0400

I'm gathering the fresh tomato recipes as I have grown an unbelievable number of fantastic tomato varieties. Thanks to Sunset who got this recipe from Executive Chef Brandon Miller of Stokes Adobe Restaurant in Monterey, California. He uses at least two colors of tomatoes in this salad - no problemo! This recipe also makes use of summer greens, basils & peppers which we hope to have in abundance too! Better eaten the same day it is made. -- posted by Buster's friend

Yellow Tomato Gazpacho With Shrimp

Sun, 26 Apr 2009 21:48:03 -0400

Here will be a lovely home for some big golden beefsteak & little yellow pear or cherry/currant tomatoes. Will play with this recipe using the green when ripe tomatoes as well.... & bigger shrimp - our local ones don't come that small (LOL). From Sunset who note - Brian Whitmer, chef at Moose's Restaurant in San Francisco, contributed this recipe. Garnish with yellow cherry tomatoes and sliced cucumbers, if desired. I'll be garnishing with whatever the garen is producing! -- posted by Buster's friend

Roasted Tomato Soup

Mon, 27 Apr 2009 00:47:24 -0400

Will be making this using the grill outside rather than heat up the house when I am awash in tomatoes. Will try both on the gas grill as well as the smoker (when cooking something else LOL). Found this in Sunset's recipe gallery. It is versatile - serve hot or cold - it is simple but I bet has wonderful flavor without being heavy (too miserably hot & humid here for rich food in the summer). Another alternative to our beloved gazpacho routine. Will experiment with fresh marjoram, basils, mint, thyme & peppers in this mix as well. -- posted by Buster's friend

Filet Mignon for the Grill

Wed, 06 May 2009 17:47:46 -0400

This is a very easy and tasteful recipe that took about 40 min from start to finish. Pairs well with homemade or store-bought bbq sauce, or stands alone. We served it with some rice pilaf from a box, and ate it all up! -- posted by sarahcis

Spicy Fig Loaf

Sun, 10 May 2009 19:55:05 -0400

Found this in the Food & Drink Weekly of the Tribune. I love figs & this sounds like it will be a delicious & healthy caky quick bread. Just the thing toasted for afternoon tea. They noted this recipe was adapted from a Marian Manners recipe that ran on Jan. 26, 1969, in the Los Angeles Times. -- posted by Buster's friend

Japanese Carrot-Ginger Salad Dressing

Tue, 19 May 2009 17:27:17 -0400

This is a fabulous "orange dressing" commonly found in Japanese restaurants. The recipe is from Ichiban, a San Diego sushi restaurant & it was written up in an old Gourmet Magazine (November 1994). Recipe makes about 4 1/4 cups dressing. -- posted by blucoat

The Blue Wedge Salad

Tue, 19 May 2009 17:40:43 -0400

I like Blue Cheese (Roquefort) and I wanted to present Iceberg Lettuce as a salad in a different but simple way. You can change the Blue Cheese to any type of Blue Cheese you like. The Heirloom Tomatoes and the Avocado add the final touch to the salad as they have a wonderful flavor. -- posted by Chef #848413

Death by Chocolate

Tue, 19 May 2009 17:41:48 -0400

These strawberries are growen local. I get them at the open-air market. They are very large and sweet. I have added Cream de Cacao to the chocolate to improve the flavor. These chocolate covered strawberries are worth dying for. These chocolate covered strawberries are wonderful and present a simple but elegant dessert. -- posted by Chef #848413

California Snackers

Wed, 20 May 2009 14:47:05 -0400

Snap easy and it's all that good! Four ingredients! Enjoy! -- posted by Sharon123

Suzanne Goin's Braised Leeks

Wed, 20 May 2009 15:23:42 -0400

This delicious recipe is from Suzanne Goins remarkable cookbook, "Sunday Suppers at Lucques". You can top this with a poached egg and a drizzle of mustard vinaigrette for a simple meal or serve as a side dish to poultry. Leftovers are excellent cold & also reheat very well. -- posted by blucoat

Herbes De Napa

Thu, 11 Jun 2009 12:58:28 -0400

A lovely seasoning blend from northern California's Napa Valley region, and a great variation on the classic herbes de Provence! Use in vegetable, meat, fish and poultry dishes or in rubs, sauces, and gravies. Courtesy Michael Chiarello. -- posted by BecR

Veggie Sandwiches A.k.a. Veggimiches

Thu, 18 Jun 2009 01:43:31 -0400

I used to make these all the time in southern Cali for my BF. Now that I've relocated to the far North, certain fresh ingredients are harder to come by, so I haven't been able to make this sandwich in ages. I'm not sure where the "m" stems from in "veggiemich," that's just what we ended up calling it. :) The reason for mixing the mustard and dressing prior to spreading on the bread is to avoid uneven spreading while keeping the calorie count down. Everything can of course be omitted or replaced to your taste; you can even make it Atkins-friendly by making a lettuce pocket and omitting the bread, hehe! We loved using a lot of pepper for a nice kick. You can make it a more filling meal with other additions, too! ^_^ -- posted by FuzzyKiwi

Chocolatey Oreo Mud Shake

Wed, 08 Jul 2009 02:29:56 -0400

I had some stuff laying around and threw it in the blender...Viola! -- posted by Pengukay

Lil Bit of Sunshine

Tue, 28 Jul 2009 02:38:17 -0400

This is an extremely simple ADULT bevy....I found this worked and was rather tasty while visiting friends in Albuquerque, NM. Availability of the classic Sunny D Mango flavor is hit and miss....but trust me....it's worth trying! Classic bottle....light green lid. NOT the orange infused new stuff (dark blue lid). :) Lots of friends have tried this...and Chef --V asked oh, so nicely that I get it posted. It is so nice on a hot day...sitting by the pool (or not). Very smooth and deceptively sneaky so be careful (ok, I pour a lil heavy-handed.) I posted it with a better ratio I hope. :) **NOTE: Zaar hasn't added Mango SUnny D to the data Base yet - so just know THAT IS what is called for. :) -- posted by Mommy Diva

Beet Salad With Avocado, and Orange

Sun, 02 Aug 2009 10:32:58 -0400

Adapted from Vegetarian Times -- posted by Ariella

Emma's Green Beans

Fri, 21 Aug 2009 11:52:49 -0400

Fresh picked green beans (cooked to tender), or canned, this is a long time family favorite from my mother & always requested as a side-dish at family gatherings, plus! Flavorful, colorful, delicious hot, or cold, more flavorful the next day.... and easy to make. Special note: 'Snappy Tom' is somethimes hard to find, but well worth the effort. -- posted by Chef #1357772 Geogene

Century Plaza Low-Calorie Buttermilk Dressing

Mon, 21 Sep 2009 00:49:06 -0400

The Century Plaza Hotel is an upscale hotel located in the Century City area of Los Angeles. Their chef has concocted this dressing recipe for patrons who want a creamy salad dressing that is not too high in calories. The hotel claims it's about 10 calories per tablespoon. The recipe was published several years ago in the reader request column of the Los Angeles Times. -- posted by lynnski / LA

Easy Avocado Salad (Vegan!)

Mon, 21 Sep 2009 01:14:04 -0400

This is a very simple salad that is the perfect change of pace. It requires fresh ingredients but is filling, tasty and really good for you! You get a wonderful mix of textures and the flavors were meant to be together! -- posted by Callu

La Mill's Sweet Pea Soup

Wed, 30 Sep 2009 01:07:16 -0400

This pea soup from Silver Lake's LA Mill demonstrates how simplicity can let a wonderful vegetable make the meal. This recipe was in the LA Times' SOS olumn & published at the request of a very satisfied customer. Pea tendrils are most accessible if you grow your own peas (grow a good row it takes quite a few pods to fill 3 cups) but also can be had at a good Asian grocer. Another one for the brown bag. -- posted by Buster's friend

Currant Scones from La Provence in Beverly Hills

Wed, 30 Sep 2009 01:24:25 -0400

This recipe is from the LA Times' Culinary SOS column - adapted from La Provence Cafe's free form crispy scones. Oh, this makes me wish for a cool & rainy Sunday - scones, great coffee & a good book under a soft throw... purrrfect! No currants? Use raisins - brown or golden, then pick up some currants when you can - you'll be making these again! -- posted by Buster's friend

Crab Melts

Mon, 05 Oct 2009 16:54:16 -0400

One of my mom's recipes I've doctored up a bit. A favorite since childhood! For a healthy version you can make the following substitutions: light ranch dressing for mayonnaise; mozzarella for cheddar cheese; sour dough for croissants -- posted by Tattooed Mama

Tortilla Soup With Chicken & Veggies

Fri, 16 Oct 2009 17:43:37 -0400

During our first storm of the season, I decided to make Tortilla Soup. I had never made it before. I found a recipe to work from, added and omitted a few things, and came up with this. It was a hit. Most of the things I cook are too spicy for some people, but I think this turned out perfect. My local grocery store offers freshly cut raw chicken and veggies, specifically for fajitas. It is a perfect way to cheat on the prep time. -- posted by JaLinGra

Jarlsberg Chicken

Fri, 16 Oct 2009 17:43:41 -0400

I developed this recipe when I was tired and wanted something very quick for my family. It takes less than 30 minutes to make and impresses everyone that has it. -- posted by Duroc

Black Olive & Clam Dip

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 10:46:25 -0500

This is a family favorite that we just cannot seem go without during the Holidays it's a great dip to serve to tide your guests over until your holiday meal is ready. This dip is a kid friendly recipe - I have two younger brothers who absolutely love this dip for them it is a holiday staple. Enjoy! -- posted by Loving Chef

Simple Breakfast Pizza

Mon, 14 Dec 2009 01:33:06 -0500

I created this recipe when my mom was sick with the flu and we had only a few ingredients to work with to make a dinner for 2 people. -- posted by Comicstorm

Chef Beorn's Tri-Tip Salad

Mon, 21 Dec 2009 02:17:22 -0500

I normally shy away from salads, but I wanted to create one that a "meat and potatoes" guy might like. -- posted by Chef Beorn Hockenhull

Ers Best Fish Tacos in the World!!

Wed, 23 Dec 2009 11:29:28 -0500

Minimal and quick - less ingredients with tons of flavor!! Very fast and easy to make this receipt serves 2-3 people. But can scale to feed more This preps in three parts and can be ready to serve in as little as 20 min. -- posted by Chef #1345851

Shepherd Pie

Tue, 05 Jan 2010 11:28:58 -0500

Thick Rich Hearty Goodness -- posted by Ruth Tisdale