Featured Recipe

Roasted Cauliflower Bisque

Cauliflower is now being touted as the new Kale ~ for folks that haven't warmed up to the texture and flavor of kale, this is good news.  Cauliflower tends to take on the flavor of what it's paired with.  It's also extremely versatile; you can bake, broil, boil, steam, rice, saute, mix with just about anything or enjoy it raw.  I chose to prepare a simple bisque with the head of cauliflower I had in my refrigerator.  It's light and has a lovely mild flavor.  You could add cheese, veggies or a protein to add a little zip to this bisque. "The flavor of roasted cauliflower is wonderful!" 

Hearty Mushroom and Chicken Stew

This past weekend our farmer's market had some fabulous fresh mushrooms.  I went a little crazy and bought a bag full, headed home, and created this stew.  Sauteing the vegetables brings out their rich flavors and the touch of cream adds a smoothness to the dish.  Chock full of flavor and texture; you're sure to love every bite!  

“Chock full of fresh mushrooms and tender chicken.  A healthy stew that is
 great for a cold night or rainy day!”

INGREDIENTS:
6 boneless skinless chicken breasts, shredded or cubed
Salt and pepper
3 Tbs. olive oil
5 celery ribs (1 1/2-2 cups), cut into 1/4” slices
2 medium onions quarter and sliced
1 red pepper, chopped
1 -1 1/2 pounds fresh mushrooms, sliced
4 zucchini (8”), cut into 1/4” slices
4 garlic cloves, crushed and chopped
2 cups chicken broth
1 can diced tomatoes
5 Roma tomatoes, cored and chopped
2 teaspoons thyme
2 tablespoons oregano
1 tablespoon marjoram
5 fresh basil leaves, chopped
3 Tbs. corn starch diluted in 3 Tbs. cold water
2/3 cup heavy cream
Pepper to taste

PREPARATION:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

1.   Place chicken in a glass baking dish.  Season with salt and pepper, cover and bake for 40 minutes.  Cut into 1/2" cubes; set aside.

2.   In a large skillet; sauté celery, onion and red peppers in olive oil until tender.  About 12-15 minutes.

3.   Add the mushrooms, zucchini and garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 5-8 minutes longer.

4.   In a large stock pot, combine chicken broth, diced tomatoes, Roma tomatoes, thyme, oregano, and marjoram.  Bring to a boil.

5.   Add vegetable mixture and chicken to the pot.  Reduce heat, cover and simmer for 30 minutes.

6.   Add diluted corn starch and heavy cream, stir and simmer uncovered for 10-15 minutes.

7.   Stir in fresh basil.

8.   Serve and enjoy!