Creamy Lentil Soup Topped with Chorizo Sausage

This recipe is an adaptation from Laura Calder and one of my absolute favorite lentil soups to make. Even though the main ingredient is lentils, I think the chorizo is the real star. The flavor combination of the creamy lentils and crisp smokey chorizo go together perfectly. The bright orange chorizo oil makes a fantastic looking garnish and compliments the creamy lentil flavor.

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Nut-Free Chocolate Cookies with Soy Nut Butter

Happy New Year! I’m excited to share my first post of 2012 with all of you and I hope to write many more recipes over the coming months.

For the past few weeks I’ve been staying with family so there has been a lot of cooking and eating. I’m not sure if it’s because of the holiday season, but we always get sugar cravings, especially for cookies! My sister and her daughter both have a severe allergy towards nuts so I decided to create a simple nut-free chocolate cookie recipe made from soy nut butter.

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Raspberry Champagne – A Simple New Year’s Eve Cocktail

Well folks, it’s finally time for some bubbly because New Year’s Eve is here! Instead of a pour of plain Champagne, why not add some fruit? I made a simple mix of raspberry puree sweetened with honey. It’s delicious and gives out a beautiful vibrant red color, perfect to ring in 2012. It also makes a great mimosa drink for brunch the next morning after a full night’s celebration.

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Farro Recipe with Mushrooms, Fresh Parsley and Truffle Butter

Farro is a healthy whole grain and one of the oldest forms of wheat. It’s high in fiber and minerals and has been a part of the Italian diet for centuries. The texture is a bit chewier than rice with an earthy, rich flavor. I love the combination of farro and mushrooms, especially this time of year. So if it’s too cold to go outside and you’re looking for something comforting, make this simple and hearty dish!

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Leche Flan – Filipino Caramel Custard

In the Philippines, leche flan, or caramel custard, is a popular dessert served during celebrations or special occasions. Variations of leche flan are also popular in Latin American countries, however, the Filipino version is typically richer. The custard is primarily made of eggs and milk, then topped with a golden liquid caramel. It may not be the healthiest dessert, but I like to indulge and enjoy myself during the holidays. So if you have a sweet tooth, looking for something creamy and luxurious, this is perfect the dessert for you!

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Holiday Treats Roundup 2011

Clockwise from top left: Rum Hot Chocolate, Low Carb Brownies, Nutella Hazelnut Cookies, Vegan Almond Cocoa Cookies, Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins

Need ideas for last minute holiday treats? Look no further! Many of us are heading over to a potluck-style party where you’re asked to bring a dessert. From vegan cookies to chocolatey delights, here are some sweet and tasty recipes to serve for the holidays.

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Holiday Recipe Roundup 2011

Clockwise from top left: Baked Turkey, Mizuna Salad, Brussels Sprouts, Duck Breast, Asian Beans, Mulled Wine

Looking for last minute holiday recipes? Well, it’s not too late! Below is a collection of delicious and easy meals to serve during the holidays. So if you haven’t already planned out what you’re making and still need a few ideas, here you go!

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