emilyalwayscooks

Spring Greens with Grilled Chicken, Strawberries, Avocado, and Feta

The classic example of seasonal fruit. When strawberries are in season, I can not resist. I say hello to these beauties during May and June when they’re plump, sweet, and juicy. Then, I say goodbye until the following Spring. Simply delicious this time of year. Yup, I’m a strawberry snob and proud of it.ContinueContinue reading “Spring Greens with Grilled Chicken, Strawberries, Avocado, and Feta”

The Ultimate Bagel with Smoked Salmon and all the Fixings

Holiday breakfast, game day eats, or the morning after things got a little carried away at the bar. A wonderful late night indulgence, my personal fav. Also, the perfect no-cook spread for entertaining. The ultimate bagel wears many hats, and they all look stylish. Here’s how to put on your “entertaining” hat: The morningContinueContinue reading “The Ultimate Bagel with Smoked Salmon and all the Fixings”

Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles)

Zucchini noodles (aka “zoodles”) are healthy, light, and delicious. Another plus, the gorgeous presentation these luscious strands of goodness make. I use a vegetable spiral slicer or julienne peeler to make zoodles. If you don’t have one of these “fancy” kitchen tools, use a box grater or cut zucchini by hand into small strips,ContinueContinue reading “Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles)”

Spinach and Ricotta Turkey Meatloaf with Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles)

Here I go again. Overhauling one of Grandma’s classic recipes. I just can’t help myself. Grandma’s consists of ground beef, a pack of onion soup mix, and a ketchup-brown sugar glaze. I lightened it up, and increased the flavor (sign of the times). Mine has ground turkey, spinach, ricotta, parmesan, onion, garlic, herbs and spices.ContinueContinue reading “Spinach and Ricotta Turkey Meatloaf with Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles)”

Chicken Salad with Grapes, Almonds, and Tarragon Dressing

Chicken salad is so subjective. Everyone thinks of something a little different when they hear those two words. Everyone has their favorite way to prepare it. I wouldn’t dare claim this recipe as “the best” or “the greatest.” I’ll be political here. What I will tell you? This is the way I like itContinueContinue reading “Chicken Salad with Grapes, Almonds, and Tarragon Dressing”

Wedge Salad with Buttermilk Herb Ranch Dressing

The classic wedge salad is making a comeback. The revolution is happening in your kitchen. Not a steakhouse. Believe it. A hunk of super crisp iceberg lettuce soaked in creamy homemade ranch dressing and topped with crispy bacon, scallions, tomatoes, crumbly blue cheese, and freshly cracked black pepper. It may not be the healthiestContinueContinue reading “Wedge Salad with Buttermilk Herb Ranch Dressing”

Buttermilk Herb Ranch Dressing

This post is gonna be short and sweet. No need to elaborate on the “process” involved in making this dressing. Just know that you should never be afraid to make your own. Tangy, herbaceous, and refreshing … after making this recipe, you will never go back to the store-bought stuff. Buttermilk Herb Ranch DressingContinueContinue reading “Buttermilk Herb Ranch Dressing”

Lubia: Lebanese Stewed Beef, Tomatoes, and Green Beans

My dear grandmother just turned 95 years old. A trip to Florida was in order! I love listening to my grandma’s stories. Especially when they involve family history and traditions. My grandma learned to cook from her Lebanese mother-in-law. After my grandparents wedding, a crash course in Lebanese cooking quickly ensued. Lubia was grandpa’s favoriteContinueContinue reading “Lubia: Lebanese Stewed Beef, Tomatoes, and Green Beans”

Roasted Asparagus with Balsamic Tomatoes and Feta

I enjoy Spring cleaning. Yup. I’m one of those people. If you cringe at that thought … well, I declare you unorganized! But, you’re still allowed to enjoy this spring dish. I know a “less than 20 minute meal” has become a cliche/semi-marketing term, but it applies here. So, take a break from theContinueContinue reading “Roasted Asparagus with Balsamic Tomatoes and Feta”

White Pizza with Roasted Garlic, Ricotta, Burrata, and Cherry Tomatoes

I’m having a pizza oven built in my backyard. It’s going to be beautiful. I’m having it built right next to the veranda. With the view of the vineyard and the foothills in the background, this spot has been begging for a wood fire pizza oven. Once the oven is built, my backyard pizza,ContinueContinue reading “White Pizza with Roasted Garlic, Ricotta, Burrata, and Cherry Tomatoes”