We began our second module this week: Chocolate. The focus was on tempering chocolate and learning how to control its crystal structure. Tempering is the process used to stabilize chocolate by encouraging the formation of the desired cocoa butter crystals. The basic method involves melting the chocolate to roughly 45°C, then lowering the temperature to … Read more

Slice of Flourless Chocolate Torte A flourless chocolate torte, hugely popular in the 1980s, is enjoying a resurgence on restaurant menus across the country. Dense and richly chocolatey, it’s often finished with a creamy ganache that makes it one of the most intensely flavored chocolate desserts. Its naturally gluten-free profile also makes it a great … Read more

Pan-fried cod with salsa verde and Mallorcan soft chorizo spread, known as sobrasada, makes a simple yet flavorful meal. Sobrasada is a cured spread made from pork loin and bacon mixed with paprika, salt and other spices, traditionally encased and air-dried until ready to eat without further cooking. If sobrasada isn’t available, a high-quality cured … Read more

A patriotic dessert everyone will adore — this 4th of July Cookie Cake is a showstopper. Perfect for barbecues, potlucks, family gatherings, or kids’ parties, it’s easy to make, visually festive, and disappears fast because it tastes as good as it looks. Festive Cookie Cake Cookie cake combines the best of cookies and sheet-pan ease. … Read more

Load up on vitamin C the natural way with this refreshing Vitamin C Powerhouse Smoothie. This immune-supporting smoothie combines bright, vitamin C–rich fruits and superfoods for a delicious, revitalizing drink. I developed this smoothie several years ago while studying culinary nutrition, and I was delighted to rediscover it. It’s light, refreshing and packed with ingredients … Read more

Crispy rice paper dumplings are golden and crunchy on the outside with a savory, flavorful filling inside. Light yet satisfying, they’re perfect as snacks, appetizers, or a fun weeknight dinner. Golden, crackly, and filled with savory goodness, these vegetarian crispy rice paper dumplings are comforting and addictive. The thin rice paper shells crisp up in … Read more

These jalapeno hush puppies are wonderfully flavorful and a classic Southern favorite. They pair beautifully with fried fish, fries, and coleslaw, but also shine as an appetizer or a bread substitute like cornbread. With the addition of jalapeno, these hush puppies gain a subtle, pleasant heat that enhances their corn-forward flavor. For more heat, stir … Read more

This sweet potato casserole should be the star on every holiday table. It combines comfort and dessert in one perfect side: silky, buttery, and topped with gooey toasted marshmallows. Many recipes fall short because they boil sweet potatoes instead of roasting them. Boiling washes away natural sugars, mutes caramelized flavor, and leaves a casserole that … Read more

This creamy Whole30 casserole is an easy, family-friendly dinner featuring sausage and potatoes baked in a rich, dairy-free cream sauce. Ready in under an hour, it’s a comforting Paleo and gluten-free option that works well for meal prep—leftovers are especially tasty. Click image to pin to Pinterest! Growing up in the Midwest, casseroles—or “hot dishes,” … Read more

Grilled Chicken Strawberry Salad combines ripe strawberries, tender grilled chicken, creamy goat cheese and a bright balsamic dressing. Toasted pecans add a satisfying crunch, creating a salad that tastes better than many restaurant versions and makes a fresh, healthy dinner. This spinach-and-arugula salad with strawberries also stores well for meal prep, so you can enjoy … Read more