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!" 

Southwestern Rice and Black Bean Casserole

Although my Mediterranean Rice Pilaf is a favorite side when entertaining; I decided to create a rice side that could also be a main dish for our vegetarian friends.  Chock full of fabulous flavors inspired by the Southwest, this casserole hit the mark.  It's colors and texture make for a beautiful presentation; the fresh corn, beans, peppers and rice also combine for fabulous flavor, bite after bite! 

"Chock full of fabulous flavors inspired by the Southwest!"

INGREDIENTS
4 cups cooked brown rice (or your favorite)
1 1/2 teaspoons chili powder
1 Tbs. cumin
Salt & pepper to taste
2-3 medium tomatoes, coarsely chopped
2/3 cup red and orange peppers, seeded and chopped
2 cups frozen/fresh corn
1 can black beans, rinsed
1 cup red onion, chopped
1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 Tbs. jalapeno, seeded and diced
3 cups cheddar cheese, shredded

PREPARATION
Preheat oven to 425 degrees F

1.   Prepare rice according to package directions.  Set aside.

2.   In a large bowl, combine tomatoes, peppers, corn, black beans, onion, cilantro and jalapeno.  Gently toss to ensure ingredients combined.

3.   Add 1/2 of the cheese, toss again.

4.   Sprinkle chili powder, cumin, salt and pepper over rice.  Using a fork, gently fluff to coat evenly.

5.   Add rice to bean mixture.  Gentle mix to combine ingredients.

6.   Pour mixture into a 8 1/2" x 11” glass baking dish and top with remaining cheese.

7.   Bake for 20 minutes.

8.   Serve and enjoy!