April 27, 2012
Aloooooha: Hometown Favorites for my Final Post

Since it is my last post for the Weekly Dish, I thought I would do the round up of some of my favorite recipes from home. I grew up in Hawaii, so it might be an odd mis and foods you haven’t tried, but I can promise you they are all delicious, or as it is said in Hawaiian… ono.

Spam Musubi: (Pictured Left) As bad of a reputation as spam has, fried up and with some rice and seaweed, you really can’t go wrong. This was the perfect snack or lunch, especially when we were little on field trips.

Loco Moco: Another classic dish, it may not be the healthiest, and you’ll definitely want a nap after, but for anyone that likes anything smothered in gravy… this is for you.

Kimchi fried rice: Who doesn’t love fried rice? At home it’s made with spam or portuguese sausage, and is really good with a fried egg on top. Add some kimchi for a Korean touch and you are good to go.

Kalua Pork: Normally it’s cooked in the ground, but this crock pot version will leave you wanting it more. Kalua pork is good with rice, in a quesadilla or mixed in to an omelette. A really versatile dish.

Portuguese Bean Soup: My school held a huge carnival every year and despite the 80 degree weather, I would still get the portuguese bean soup because it was that good. Bringing the warmth of Hawaii to you anywhere.

Lomi Lomi Salmon: A much fresher dish than some of the others. The raw flavors blend together and it is sort of like ceviche. 

Poi: Poi may be as traditional as it gets when it comes to Hawaiian food. People don’t always like the taste but adding some sugar to it will sweeten it up.

Chicken Katsu:  (Pictured above to the right) There are few things better than a plate lunch after a day at the beach. Katsu is normally my go-to.

Mac Salad: By default, plate lunches come with Mac Salad. Mix it with the rice and thekatsu and you have pretty much anything you’ll need for a meal. Once again, not the healthiest, but after a day outing the water, you probably deserve a splurge.

Kalbi: Korean short ribs may be some of my favorite red meat around. 

Hawaiian Beef Curry Stew:  Served with a scoop of rice, you really can’t go wrong on a hot or cold day.

Easy Haupia Cake:  (Pictured right) A new take on a  traditional Hawaiian dish. If you like coconut, this is definitely your dish. Plus, you always have to end on a sweet note… right?

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April 20, 2012
Pick Your Picnic Grub

April 23 is National Picnic Day. With the gorgeous spring (or sometimes feels like summer) weather lately, I couldn’t think of a better way to plan to spend my Monday. This week you get some traditional, and not so traditional, picks for your picnic to celebrate. From sandwiches and wraps, to potato salad and even your very own tortilla chips!

Shrimp Sandwich Rolls: Shrimp may not be the first type of sandwich you think to take on a picnic, but I can promise you the change of pace will be worth it with this recipe.

Baked Falafel Pita Sandwich: Another not so traditional picnic sandwich, but putting some cucumber and tomato in the pita will make it extremely refreshing on a warm day.

Pita with Chicken, Hearts of Palm & Chimichurri Dressing: If the length of the name doesn’t get you, the first bite will. A twist on the chicken sandwich.

Tuscan Tuna Wrap: Few ingredients in this recipe you won’t have laying around your house.

Sometimes, the sides are more important than the main dish… so here are some great sides to snack the afternoon away with.

Tortellini Pasta Salad: Using tortellini instead of regular pasta adds to the flavors of this dish in the best way possible.

Tuna Pasta Salad with Spinach and Radishes: This pasta salad has so many different nutrients, it could be a side dish or the star of the picnic.

Creamy Avocado Potato Salad: Avocado tastes good with anything, but in potato salad? It’s even better.

Baby Red Potato Salad: A healthy take on the traditional favorite. A definite go-to.

Southwestern Potato Salad: Loaded and ready to go with all your favorite southwestern ingredients.

Homemade Baked Tortilla Chips: Personally, I could snack on tortilla chips all day. So if I can make them on my own… maybe that could be dangerous.

Homemade Pita Chips: Making your own pita chips is more simple than you’d think. You can also put different seasonings to make them your own, both sweet and savory varieties.

Homemade Potato Chips: Nothing screams “Picnic!” more than some good potato chips. Who needs the store brands when you can make your own?

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April 13, 2012
Let’s Get Crocking

I’ve noticed more and more of my friends talking about their new crock pots they have invested in and have noticed more and more that I am lacking the discipline to make a healthy dinner when I get home from work extremely hungry. So. I intend on caving soon to get my very own crock pot. In preparation, and for the lucky ones who already possess a crock pot, this week’s round up goes to you. A variety of slow cooker recipes that cover all meals!

Traditional American Crock Pot Classics:

Crock Pot Pot Roast: When thinking of crock pot dinners, this was the most traditional type of crock pot dinner I could think of. Throw it all in there before work and come back to a hearty meal at the end of the day.

Ultimate Crock Pot Mashed Potatoes: These don’t take quite as long, only ringing in at 4.5 hours, but delicious and creamy mashed potatoes are hard to beat.

Crock Pot Chili: Chili is often something to make in large quantities and leave soaking because the longer the better.

Easy Barbecued Ribs: (pictured right) Especially as summer approaches, nothing will add the perfect touch to your parties and gatherings as a batch of fall off the bone ribs.

Slow Cooker Grits: If there is anything I’ve learned, is the minute grits are good for a serious craving, but grits really need a while to cook to be authentic and delicious. This recipes definitely is authentic and delicious.

Stepping out of the Traditional Box:

Slow Cooker Jambalaya: (pictured left) Not your traditional meat and potatoes slow cooker recipe, but you will definitely be rushing home from work to enjoy this satisfying meal.

Crock Pot Fajitas: I know I always get jealous of the person at the local mexican restaurant when their fajitas come out and fill the air with their delicious aroma, now you can come home to that amazing smell.

Slow-Cooker Hummus: Hummus is always a food to have on hand. By making it yourself you can design your own flavors and consistency.

Chicken Tikka Masala: This may use ingredients you’re not used to, and push you out of your comfort zone, but it will all be worth it once the 4-5 hours of it cooking are complete.

Snooki: Don’t let the name fool you, you’ll definitely be wanting more of this ravioli and sauce concoction that cooks all together for at least 4 hours.

Slow Cooker Oatmeal: The only thing close to as awesome as coming home to dinner ready, is waking up to breakfast cooked. Throw this in the pot before going to bed and wake up to a healthy and warm bowl of breakfast.

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April 6, 2012
Passover Recipes to the Rescue

I don’t know if everyone else feels the same way, but Passover seems to have snuck up quickly this year. Whether you are following the kosher laws of Passover, going to your first seder, or none of the above, these recipes are delicious and you’ll want to be eating them year around. Here’s a round up of some main dishes, desserts and snacks to make meals without leavening a little easier.

Matzo Ball Soup: The holiday really isn’t complete without the traditional soup, so why not use this simple and easy recipe?

Red Wine and Onion Braised Passover Brisket: An intimidating traditional dish for many unfamiliar cooks, but rewarding once conquered.

Beef Bourguignon: Thanks to this great blog, there is a kosher version of the Julia Child classic.

Horseradish Potato Gratin: A great side dish to go with your brisket, or chicken. The horseradish adds a nice bite to the potatoes.

Spiced Apple Cake: (Photographed right) Tastes even better than it looks, if you can imagine that. You definitely won’t believe this delicious cake lacks any sort of leavening.

Matzo Pizza: Many people’s go-to snack or lunch during passover. A nice idea to add toppings other than just cheese and sauce.

Pesach Chicken Nuggets: Need a break from the crispness of matzah? Try these chicken nuggets that will be a different type of crispy.

Matzoh Brei Cupcakes: Sounds intimidating, but oh so simple. Only 3 ingredients to make these delicious treats.

Passover Coconut Rocky Road Matzo: This would be perfect to take to a dinner or seder as a sweet treat after the meal.

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March 30, 2012
Fresh Step into Spring

As the weather gets nicer, nothing tastes better than the perfect salad. Especially with the abundance of fresh vegetables, and everyone’s desire to start preparing their summer beach bodies, we have rounded up some of the best salad recipes on the web for you this week.

Avocado Cucumber and Tomato Salad: An extremely simple, fresh and affordable salad. Perfect for a picnic at the park or a day at the beach.

Wheat Berry Salad with Zucchini and Mozzarella: A little longer of a list of ingredients than the first recipe, but just as easy and delicious.

Lemon Vinaigrette with Spring Salad: (pictured right) As you can guess from the title, the dressing really makes this salad. It’s such a refreshing addition to any meal.

Bacon, Chicken and Avocado Salad: A nice mix of salty and sweet all in one salad, thanks to the apple in the mix.

Black Rice Salad with Avocado and Grapefruit: Not your traditional salad, but the mix of avocado and grapefruit is extremely refreshing.

Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Pineapple Poppy Seed Vinaigrette: Despite the bad connotation given to brussels sprouts, they are actually delicious when cooked the right way. They are definitely an ingredient to watch because they can be bitter if over cooked, but take on such great flavors if used correctly.

Chinese Chicken Salad: A classic favorite that you can make right at home.

Spring Pea and Vine Salad: Don’t let the name scare you off. It’s a simple salad with a different kind of green and a poached salad on top, perfect for a late lunch.

Green Bean and Cherry Tomato Salad: If you’re looking for a salad filled with big green leafs, this might not be for you, but this is the perfect side dish to many meals to freshen up your plate and add some color. 

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(Notes: 1)
  
March 23, 2012
Do You Have Chips For Your Dip?

Today, Friday, is National Chip and Dip Day, and really I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to feature some great chip and dip recipes. Especially as March Madness is going on, these dips are quick and easy crowd pleasers to have laying around as you watch the games!

Savory Dips:

Healthy Seven-Layer Dip: (pictured left) You won’t even notice the healthy substitutions, this is definitely going to be the center of your next Mexican themed dinner.

Feta Dip: It may not be a traditional dip that you’re thinking of, but it is the perfect option if you’re looking to switch it up.

Guilt Free Creamy Spinach Dip: Spinach dip is probably my favorite splurge dip, but it no longer has to be thanks to this great substitution.

The Reuben Dip: Corned beef, sauerkraut, all your favorite parts of a Reuben sandwich are in one bowl. You’ll definitely want to double this recipe.

Slow Cooker Spicy Sausage & Beer Cheese Dip: I know I’m always looking for new ways to use my slow cooker, this is definitely going to be a new go-to.

Sweet:

Cookie Dough Dip: (pictured right) Use some graham crackers to dip and you’re good to go. Who doesn’t love cookie dough?

Snickerdoodle Dip: The ingredient list may look a little intimidating, but the flavors really do blend really well together. Believe it or not, this dip is high protein and gluten free!

Devil’s Food Cake Batter Dip: Yes it is absolutely as divine as it sounds. This should definitely be at the top of your recipe’s to try list.

Chips:

Homemade Potato Chips: This link also has an excellent Avocado Ranch Dip that goes with it. Deliciousness.

Baked Zucchini Chips: Get the crunch with much less guilt. A perfect addition to any sandwich or burger.

Raw Recipe Beet Chips: Beets can have a negative connotation, but I put them in my salads often. Similar to brussels sprouts, if you use them correctly they can add a lot to a dish.

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March 16, 2012
It’s Time to Go Green

With St. Patrick’s Day coming up tomorrow, it’s only fitting that you be prepared with some delicious, green recipes to add to whatever festivities you may have planned. We sifted the web this week to find you some traditional, as well as some not so traditional recipes to send your way. Hope you have the luck of the Irish when you try these out:

Traditional:

Lighter- Sweet Potato Shepard’s Pie: (pictured right) A lighter version of the traditional dish. A must-have for your festivities.

Colcannon: This traditional side dish is a great mix of potato and kale. A different twist that is similar to mashed potatoes.

Irish Soda Bread: Probably as traditional as you can get. A perfect go to in order to have a  more customary Irish meal.

Chicken and Leak Pie: Don’t be intimidated by the list of ingredients, most of them you have laying around your place… plus it will be well worth it when the pie comes out of the oven.

Corned Beef and Cabbage: We couldn’t give you a list of recipes for St. Patrick’s Day and leave this staple off the list.

Not-so-traditional:

Rainbow & Pot-of-Gold Cupcakes: (pictured left) The flavors may not be festive, but the leprechauns will definitely be jumping to get one of these.

Irish Car Bomb Cupcakes: With a Whiskey-Ganache filling, this should be at the top of your list.

Minty Milkshakes: A different take on McDonald’s Shamrock Shake in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Mint Oreo Truffles: Decorated with even more green, this will bring brightness to the table and no one will pinch you.

Bailey’s Irish Cream Coffee Fudge: If reading the name doesn’t make your mouth water, the first bite definitely will.

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March 9, 2012
No Need to be a Crab

According to multiple sources, today, March 9, is National Crab Meat Day. Crab has many health benefits, including antioxidants, natural sodium and is great for your heart. Because crab is not often considered in home cooking, I thought this would be a great opportunity to showcase the versatility and simplicity of making delicious crab recipes. Some are healthy, some are splurges, but all are absolutely delicious! 

La Jolla Crab Stack: (pictured right) This fresh and fancy stacked dish would be great to receive some “oo’s and ah’s” at your next celebration.

Crab and Corn Soup: Delicious and creamy, the perfect addition to the weekly winter meal line ups.

Mini Brie Crab Appetizers: A recipe that would go under the “splurge” category, but more than worth any splurge you feel like you’ll be doing.

Summer Tomatoes, Corn, Crab and Avocado Salad: Just because summer is in the name doesn’t mean you need to wait till then to make this delicious salad.

Asian Crab Salad Croustades: (pictured left) Bite size pieces of goodness. Great size to get just enough to feed your cravings.

Lemon-Feta Crab Pasta: Crab doesn’t need to be exclusively in appetizers, it’s great in main courses too!

Simple, Light Crab Cakes: A mouth-watering crab cake recipe that doesn’t leave you feeling gross.

Crepe with Crab Meat Stuffing: If this doesn’t “wow” your guests, then I don’t know what will.

Crab and Avocado Quesadilla: Quesadillas are great to incorporate crab because a little goes a long way!

Lump Crab Meat Lettuce Wraps with Bacon and Avocado: You cannot look at bacon, avocado and crab in the same recipe name and not think it’ll be amazing.

Cilantro and Lime Crab Salad in Avocado Halves: Perfect set portions that would be great for a brunch, lunch or dinner party.

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March 2, 2012
Take Out Made In

As much as everyone loves to order take out, sometimes it’s nice to make them on your own. Especially in the winter months when it’s colder and all you really want to do is cuddle up with a movie and a blanket. Whether you’re looking for pizza and bread sticks or some Thai curry with coconut rice we’ve got you covered. Check out the recipes we’ve 

got in the round up for you today, and as usual click the pictures for their recipes as well.

Pizza Take-out:

Parmesan Breadsticks: Let’s be honest. A true night ordering in pizza isn’t complete without some breadsticks and marinara sauce.

Greek Pizza: Different than the classic pepperoni or plain old cheese, but if you’re making it at home, why go for the basics?

Calzone: (pictured left) These are good to add a twist to pizza, and who doesn’t love the garlic dough surrounding pepperoni and cheese?

Tasty Thai:

Thai Coconut Rice: The perfect side dish to go with any Asian-style curry, meat or vegetable dish.

Shrimp Pad Thai: The classic Thai go-to dish. If you can make Pad Thai at home you’ll

 have no need to carry it out ever again.

Chicken Satay: With the spicy peanut sauce, this will go perfectly with any Thai dinner.

Fried Spring Rolls: These are Thai-style, but you can make spring rolls for most asian cuisines.

Yellow Curry with Chicken and Potatoes: (pictured right) My personal go-to for curry at Thai restaurants. A delicious one-pot meal.

Everyone’s Go-to Take out… Chinese Side Dishes:

Garlic Edamame: Not only are they healthy and affordable, but they are a great source of protein and are absolutely delicious. Always a nice contrast to the heavy sauces on many dishes.

Baked Crab Ragoon: You won’t even notice they aren’t fried. A healthier alternative without sacrificing taste.

Chicken Lettuce Wraps: A fresher alternative to 

the classic spring roll, so delicious and with one head of iceberg lettuce, you’ll be able to make many at once.

Looking for something more than just a side dish? Here are some Chinese entrees:

Orange Chicken: A popular dish for people for both dining in and taking out of Chinese restaurants. This simple recipe will change your orange chicken eating habits.

General Tso’s Chicken: This is a recipe for a healthier version. Benefits to making your own food are that you know what’s in it.

Homemade Wonton Soup: (pictured left) Nothing tastes better when you have a sore throat than some wonton soup. This gives your recipes for pork and shrimp wontons.

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February 24, 2012
Peanuttttt Peanut Butter…no jelly.

Next Thursday, March 1st, is National Peanut Butter Day. Seeing as it is absolutely delicious and can be used in many different dishes, it was necessary to dedicate this week’s post to it.

Peanut butter isn’t only good for the brown bag lunches your mom packed for your field trips in elementary school. Two tablespoons of peanut butter packs 7 grams of protein, as well as potassium, fiber and is a source of the good fats.

Here are some ways to incorporate peanut butter into your daily diet. Per usual, the pictures are links too!

Creamy Peanut Butter Dip: If you’re looking for a different kind of dip that will blow your friends out of the water, here’s your recipe.

Peanut Butter Bread: This bread is perfect to make ahead of time and have for breakfast throughout the week.

Peanut Butter Blossoms: These are the traditional peanut butter cookies with the chocolate kiss in the middle that everyone loves. Always a crowd pleaser for people of all ages.

Peanut Butter Surprise Cookies: A twist on the peanut butter blossoms, they have a Reese peanut butter cup in the middle. Really, you can’t go wrong with this.

Peanut Butter Brownie Trifle: Not really a healthy option, but definitely worth the caloric splurge.

If sweets aren’t really your thing, here are a few savory dishes to tempt you with. 

Cucumber Peanut Salad: A little fresher and healthier way to incorporate peanuts into your diet.

Noodle Salad with Peanut Mmmmm Sauce: A vegan recipe that uses peanut butter to make a creamy sauce on the Asian-inspired dish.

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