Posts tagged Sides
Charred Artichokes

I recently was in Paseo Robles with friends for an art event right before the lock down in early March. I discovered a beautiful house overlooking Morro Bay for our stay. We located the local farmers market where I’m not exaggerating, I found the most beautiful artichokes ever! They were so perfect and so fresh. The thought of grilling them on the patio with that stunning view of the bay with its famous rock was exciting and my mouth was watering in anticipation. I also picked up a Woodford Reserve Double-Oaked Bourbon to start our delightful evening, which we enjoyed while getting the artichokes grill-ready by cleaning and steaming.

I am literally not exaggerating that the end result was the best charred, smoky flavor that I have ever had yet enhanced by my versatile artSAVOR 75. Ok, maybe the view had something to do with it too. Are you ready for some splash of flavor? I am thrilled to share the recipe for these mouthwatering delights. In your mind’s eye, you may even catch a glimpse of Morro Bay! Be creative and have a Blast!

Read More
Watermelon, Persian Honeydew, Watercress & Grilled Little Gems

Watermelon salads make regular appearances on my summer menus. I grew up eating watermelon with a touch of salt and love how the natural sweetness become savory. This was the origin of my many variations on a theme of summer melon salads. I started adding a splash lemon juice, then a sprinkle of Persian goat cheese, then Persian cucumber and then . . . as you can see from this recipe is expansive, creative and deliciously fun. Naturally, I brought this combination together my own signature flavors in a heavenly artSAVOR 75 vinaigrette.

Read More
Sautéed Multi Color Potatoes

Potatoes are undeniably, a family favorite, especially with steak. This is one of my easiest and incredibly delicious preparations. These multi-colored potatoes tossed with artSAVOR 75 and finished with fresh tarragon are crispy little flavor nuggets. They are nearly fail-proof for even the most novice kitchen artist. Parboiling them is the secret to getting them quickly crispy in the sauté. I like to plate them together with the steak.

Read More
Smashed Rosemary Potatoes

The first time I made smashed potatoes was by accident while preparing for a small intimate dinners. Sautéed potatoes on the menu. The parboiled potatoes had been transferred to tray and covered for a last minute sauté. Something heavy somehow was placed over the covered potatoes and smashed them. Without time to start from scratch, I just decided to use them smashed. I had no idea that many chefs purposely smash them and then roast or sauté the the potatoes to crispy goodness. I was a hero that night and my guests declared me to an extraordinary chef. I am honestly not a chef. I follow no rules. I just follow my eyes, nose and palate and create!

One of my favorite smashed potatoes offerings was by Chef David Faux, while he was at Wally’s in Beverly Hills. Sometimes that was my main dish and nothing else as they were very rich with lots of butter. I try to keep them light and tasty as possible without too much additional fat.

Read More
Pickled Persian Cucumber & Onion

We constantly search for flavors to indulge our palate and too often turn to the creamy richness offered by cheese and cream. This recipe is proof that you can delight the palate in other ways. From gravlax to fish, chicken and steak, this side with my Blend No.75 is a quick way to add crisp and bright flavor to your plate without much effort. The fresh, snap and crunch of the cucumber paired with the sliced onions, tomato and zing from the lemon and champagne vinegar hits the spot for a fresh side dish.

Read More
Herbed Emerald Basmati Rice

Your practice of Creative and Artful Living will guide your daily life through all matters, both great and small. It will free you from restrictions and constraints. It is how I approach everything and what inspires my culinary creations, like this visually delightful and elegant dish that goes with any protein or vegetable. The emerald sauce made with fresh spinach herbs, almonds and a touch of my artSAVOR 75 together with my fluffy flaky rice create range of flavors that are nutty, zesty and tangy with a little crunch.

Read More
Homeira's Cornbread

My husband and I love corn in every form… on the cob, soufflé, chowder, muffins, salad and more. Corn bread was another story. We were never into corn bread as it tends to be dry, somewhat bland boring texture and weak in flavor. As I typically approach every matter with a creative attitude, I decide to make over the top corn bread as part of my Thanksgiving spread. The trick was to add moisture, texture and artSAVOR 50 to add deep flavor. Then a touch of honey and ghee takes this bread to new heights.

Read More
Roasted Beet & Cauliflower Salad with Goat Cheese

This salad is a showstopper! If there is one thing I’m certain of, this salad will be well received as part of any menu - holiday feast or otherwise! This simple light recipe is vibrant with color and umami resulting from the brilliant combination of sweet, salty, nutty, bitter and sour flavors. This is a perfect prelude to holiday turkey!

Read More
Fingerling Potato, Grilled Chicken & Spinach Salad

To stuff or not to stuff? That is the Thanksgiving question and my answer is simple, “Don’t do it!” My style of cooking embraces all that is crispy, crunchy, light and airy and packed with deep flavor, so anything that is gooey and schmaltzy is definitely out. I use this salad as my delicious replacement. I promise you will lick your fork. It is the perfect complement to turkey, with loads of flavor and texture.

Read More
Simple Roast Cauliflower with Bacon & Parmesan

This dish is magical! artSAVOR 60 transforms ordinary cauliflower, with a touch of bacon, parmesan and panko bread crumbs into a sublimely delicious dish. High in protein and potassium, cauliflower shines with this simple preparation. Crunchy, nutty, meaty and delicious, this is a perfect fall and holiday side dish.

Read More