Monthly Archives: February 2013

Pumpkin Bread (vegan and gluten-free)

Feb

I have been making my mother’s recipe for pumpkin bread since I have been a teenager. Her recipe bakes into excellent loaves or muffins and has consistently been one of my favorite things to make for Thanksgiving and holiday gifts. But I have never thought of it as something that should be limited to enjoy during the holidays. I have always loved it as a year round favorite to make for snacks, breakfast, and dessert. The big problem with this 40 year old recipe is that it is laden with with oil, sugar, and eggs. After putting it off for far too long, I finally gave this beloved recipe a much deserved overhaul.

Romanesco Cauliflower with Parsnips and Raisins

Feb

When the less common vegetables show up at the farmer’s markets or grocery stores, I find them hard to resist. Colorful varieties of cauliflower including purple, gold, and Romanesco have been catching my eye lately. They are all beautiful, but the Romanesco variety which is called Romanesco Broccoli has to be one of the most stunning of any vegetable. There is just something so alluring about this plant with it’s acid green color and spiraling pattern of conically shaped florets that makes it irresistible to someone like me.

Heart Beet Salad

Feb

Here is a super simple and beautiful salad to make for for someone special or just because it makes you happy.
Happy Valentines Day!

Chocolate Coconut Macaroons (raw and naturally sweetened)

Feb

One of my favorite natural food stores in Los Angeles is Erewhon market. There are always things that I can find there that are not in other grocery stores such as a variety of fresh juices, well prepared foods that are fresh and clean, a plethora of organic produce as it is an all organic market, and an amazing section of raw foods. Among my favorite finds from the raw foods selections have been these remarkably addictive coconut macaroons. The last time I was in the store, I went hunting for them, but they were out of stock! I was quite disappointed, but it turned out to be a blessing in disguise that forced me into creating a recipe of my own. After all, how difficult could it really be?

Pumpkin Drop Muffins

Feb

People often write or ask me for healthy breakfast recipes. It seems that everyone wants to make a healthier version of muffins or sweet breads that is not only easy to make, but something they can also feel good about giving to their families at the start the day. This recipe is a good one to try.