For years I did not make Eggplant Parmesan because it took way too long to cut, bread, and individually fry each piece of eggplant. I would stand for what seemed to be hours with my grandmother to make this dish. Yes, it was delicious, but it never s[Read More]

I love this recipe in particular because it is perfect for overripe avocados, You know that one you bought weeks ago and forgot about and now it is a little mushy or brown. Don’t toss it out, avocados can be expensive make it into this delicious rich[Read More]

Ham and Olive Pinwheels have been a go-to appetizer for me for quite some time now. I love them because it is easy to make a lot of them at one time. The problem with many fun appetizers is that they are too time-consuming and involve too many ste[Read More]

It’s that time of year again, when friends and family come together and celebrate the year. Don’t let the good times end yet! Mix together a batch of homemade eggnog. Yes, there are store-bought versions, but making homemade eggnog is easier than you[Read More]

This time of year it seems like Pumpkin Spice is all the rage. From classic pies and pastries to lotions and to scented candles it seems there is no escaping the pumpkin spice craze. I am personally no different. This time of year with the cr[Read More]

School is starting which means we need healthy snacks that provide quality nourishment to keep kids happy, healthy and moving. One of our go to healthy snacks are no bake bars. They are quick to make and filled with high quality nuts and seeds like t[Read More]

  It 's Twin Cities Polish Festival Time!  One of the main reasons I love food is its ability to teach us so many things like about art, history and culture. Food feeds us, but it is also deeply connected to who we are. We have emotional [Read More]

I recently shared that I over the years I have had quite a few successes getting children to try and enjoy eating new foods by serving them with a dip. Many of my simple go to options at home are yogurt based. When I had a request for a few non-dairy[Read More]

It’s wedding season! How I love a wedding it is such a beautiful symbol of love and commitment. My cousin is getting married this summer. I recently went her wedding shower. Part of the invitation was to share your favorite recipe with the bride for [Read More]

I don’t know about you but do you ever get to the point where you feel you just have too much “stuff”. With Father day last weekend I am reminded of this as my dad always says, “No gifts, no gifts. I have everything I need”. He is sweet and really th[Read More]

  This week has been loads of fun! My husband has been out of town so I have been a single mom all week. Sometimes it is challenging but I am always learning new things to help myself and my clients. It has truly been fun spending e[Read More]

I recently went to the Gluten Free Food Allergy Fest in Minneapolis. It was a mini food show with over 90 different vendors all sharing their greatest gluten, dairy, egg, and soy free foods. I have always been a little skeptical of products that make[Read More]

(Gluten-free, Dairy-free, Egg-free) Makes 9- 12 brownies depending on how you cut them These vegan black bean brownies are rich and dense perfect for a guilt free indulgent chocolate treat. Guests will love them but it is best to revel the secre[Read More]

These double chocolate spinach muffins are a favorite breakfast treat or afternoon snack that I don't feel guilty about eating. They pack green leafy vegetables and whole oats into a delicious gluten free chocolate muffin that is super easy to make. [Read More]

  Weeknight meals are consistently evolving with my family. Maybe it is because I have a toddler at home but it seems every month as he continues to develop and gain new skills our plan for quick family meals gets a revamp for what’s working [Read More]

Mashed Cauliflower 1 large head cauliflower. About 6 cups of flowerets 4-6 cloves garlic, peeled ¼ cup butter or extra virgin olive oil + ¼ cup if roasting ¼ cup cream ¼ cup Parmesan cheese Clean cauliflower, remove the core and brea[Read More]

In my effort to eat more real and clean foods I am constantly adapting recipes to make foods fit my needs and busy lifestyle. I want to eat well but don’t want to miss out on any of the fun rich indulgences of the holiday season. I have found when yo[Read More]

Print Recipe I am always in search of healthier treats and this one is a true gem! It is free from all the extra junk with the added bonus of no gluten or dairy to fit special diets needs. It's so simple to make; add it your holiday baking list to[Read More]

(Gluten-Free, Refined Sugar Free and totally delicious Birthday Cake) Last week, I shared about my continued commitment to make real food practical and approachable for busy moms. I am really excited to share this recipe and hopefully give you a l[Read More]

These have turned into one of my favorite healthy snacks for those busy on-the-go days. The fruits and nuts are the perfect combination of a sweet treat and protein to keep one satisfied and still moving. Feel free to make up your own combinations [Read More]

Recently, I had some private clients request options for low carb, gluten free alternatives to some of our common starchy sides like mashed potatoes, bread, muffins and pizza. This had me thinking of foods that can fulfill these requirements. As a[Read More]

This all-purpose seasoning is wonderful just as is and simple to make it your own signature spice blend to fit any cuisine or taste. Perfect to season vegetables, chicken, pork, steak, even fish. 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon celery salt * 1[Read More]

In my effort to try more natural gluten-free cooking my very supportive husband bought me cricket flour. Yes, you heard me right - 100% ground crickets! Apparently, they are very high in protein. I have to be honest I was a little hesitant at first[Read More]

Summer calls for fun fruit drinks and this one hits the spot. Many store bought versions contain artificial dyes and large amounts of unnecessary sugar. Try out this summer fruit punch that uses real fruit and juices to sweeten it at your next gather[Read More]

It happens, we all get busy and all of a sudden we need food and need it fast. Here is how to keep from running out of fast food. Stay in by having a few of these Pantry Essentials on hand for simple and creative snacks anytime. I often make my own[Read More]

Spring is finally here and springtime gatherings like Easter, Mothers day and Bridal showers are right around the corner. This year make it special with individual servings of these beautiful fresh fruit tartlets with cream cheese filling. They are s[Read More]

Salads are a great way to eat well but did you know your salad dressing may be hiding a lot of not so healthy ingredients? Making your own homemade dressing is easier than you think. You just need to know the basic ratio of acid to oil and you can ma[Read More]

(Mommy and baby party day) This past week Alexander and I hosted our first party since he was born. He is now 4 moths old and I have learned a lot about healthy eating with babies especially since making meals one-handed is a skill I have not ye[Read More]

If you decided to make some Homemade Eggnog, you must be wondering what to do with all the extra egg whites? It’s easy to mix up a batch or scramble egg whites, a frittata or an egg white quiche, but this time of year with the dry air it is perfect[Read More]

What to do with all that Thanksgiving leftover goodness? You had the big feast, you planned well, and everyone had their fill of delicious food. But now, what to do with all the leftovers? I don’t know about you, but I am not one that can eat the s[Read More]

(When you prepare in advance, you can be relaxed and enjoy your time before your guests arrive for the Thanksgiving meal) So, here is how one person makes all this food work, and still enjoys the party. Almost every part of the Thanksgiving Me[Read More]

Thanksgiving Guide: How to Plan the Perfect Meal Step 2 Continued: Planning the Thanksgiving Menu (Dessert and After Party) (Thanksgiving Pies) No dinner party is complete without dessert. For Thanksgiving, dessert is typically pies. I think d[Read More]

Since Thanksgiving is such a big meal, you really don’t need appetizers. Yet, as I broke the meal into three parts to help accommodate a variety of guests’ needs and schedules by creating invitation of casual courses to include a cocktail hour. Here[Read More]

I will never prepare just one apple pie; I always process enough apples for at least 2-3 so I can have homemade pies whenever I need them. Apple Pie Filling: 6 cups thinly sliced peeled apple 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, if apples l[Read More]

Chicken and broccoli cheese casserole is a Complete Meal with no dishes! Some days just the thought of “what’s for dinner” can be too much. It’s great to have a few Complete Meal options ready to go that are just “heat and serve”. Even better port[Read More]

As an entrée I love to have Lasagna Rolls on hand as they are simple enough for children and fancy enough for a dinner party. 20 lasagna noodles cooked according to package directions. Cool the cooked pasta by running under cold water. For[Read More]

I have found that getting kids, even adults to enjoy vegetables can be quite a challenge. What makes a vegetable unique and tasty can be sometimes as simple as an easy dip. Adding a new flavor, color or texture may be all that is needed to see vege[Read More]

(Fresh romaine lettuce from the garden) Summer is finally here which means the spring veggies are perfect for harvesting and the abundance of summer vegetables is on its way. Veggies can get boring easily so add a flavor kick with a homemade dre[Read More]

It is full swing summer entertaining time. The thing I love most about easy summer entertaining is that is it so casual. A nice evening on the deck with a few snacks, drinks and friends makes a perfect evening of fun and conversation.   (family din[Read More]

The weather is finally starting to warm up. This summer mix up your classic s’mores with a savory twist, add bacon! You can make it gluten-free by using the bacon lattice as the base or simply tuck a few pieces of cooked bacon in with the marshmallow[Read More]

Had to Try It (Rachel testing recipes) I couldn’t help myself, I had to check it out and see what is was really like. Being a professional chef and huge supporter of the family meal I cook everyday and make dinner almost every night. Now usuall[Read More]

Finding an appetizer that everyone can eat seems to be a more commonly difficult task with all the various food allergies and diet restrictions it makes feeding a group nearly impossible. One thing that I love to make for parties is hummus as it is a[Read More]

I have exciting news: we are expecting a baby this October! We are thrilled to start this new adventure and grow our family. I could not resist the traditional “bun in the oven”, so today I am sharing my simple recipe for Homemade Sweet or Savory[Read More]

(Grandma Mallardi’s Italian Meatballs) Meatballs are a wonderful thing and can be used in so much more than just pasta. From appetizers and soups, sandwiches, salads and other main meals. Meatballs can please a wide variety of needs and tastes. [Read More]

(Easy Basic Cake Recipe shown with Blueberry Sauce) To be honest I am not much of a cake-lover but everyone needs an easy basic cake for last-minute parties or maybe just to satisfy a quick sweet tooth craving. I love this easy basic cake becaus[Read More]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Icw9WKhSbgk&width=560 Kale is so nutritious. The problem is it is not always the easiest thing to eat. In this video Elizabeth from redouxu.com and I share how make kale more palatable and make it actually enjoyab[Read More]

Punch is popular again - stop sweating over making individual drinks! This is the perfect punch for parties. Most punch’s are sweetened and get their bubbly fix from sugary soda pop. This perfect punch uses the natural sugar found in fruit juices[Read More]

Want to impress a special someone? Want to indulge in something rich, smooth and chocolate? This is the cake for you. Don’t worry if you are limiting wheat - this flourless chocolate cake is 100% gluten free. It gets its lift from the eggs so everyon[Read More]

1. Sear your protein. Works well with any meat, chicken, pork, steak etc… A pan sauce requires a “fond” which are the caramelized “bits” that are left in the bottom of the pan after cooking. Think of them as of residual flavor crystals. In ord[Read More]

Last week I was posting about how much fun we had creating a gingerbread house with my niece Lilly and her dad. I had many comments about our creation and some even said, “Although impressive and fun, how did this not become a disaster in your kitche[Read More]

This is one of my favorite creamy soups. My dad believes that any meal without tomatoes is not actually a meal. My mother’s only experience with tomato soup, however, was the condensed variety from a can. I wanted to make him something special so[Read More]

I had so much fun sharing again on Twin Cities Live last week. I love this time of year, as it is prep time for all the fun holiday festivities to come. To get you started on the right path I shared some really simple and practical techniques for mak[Read More]

I love to make crostini because it takes something that you would otherwise toss out and make it into something delightfully crispy perfect for snacks and elegant appetizers. Take a look at how easy it is to make home-made crostini and magically turn[Read More]

(Chili Garlic Butter, Sweet Honey Butter and Herb Butter) Looking for something to add little elegance to your next meal? Try a compound butter to add taste and flavor with less fat. Butter makes everything better but did you know you could en[Read More]

This method of lightly broiling the eggplant slices rather than frying cuts down on half the calories and half the time. You will love this delicious vegetarian Italian comfort food. 1 medium eggplant 1 cup breadcrumbs 1 cup grated Parme[Read More]

Getting that perfect crispy breading to coat items is easier than you think. It is all about following the basic breading procedure. The Breading Process can be achieved with great success in just three easy steps. Once you know the basic breading pr[Read More]

I was not always a kale-lover but knowing how good it was for me I became determined to transform this dark-leafy green into something actually enjoyable. Here are the flawless steps to turn kale into a crispy delicious healthy snack. Wash an[Read More]

This snack is a prefect easy appetizer especially for last minute entertaining. All you need is a block of cream cheese, your spice cabinet and a few crackers to make easy appetizers in an instant that will have your guests wondering how you do it al[Read More]

4 medium zucchini, halved lengthwise (about 2 pounds) 1 pound bulk spicy Italian sausage 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 teaspoon onion powder 1 cup breadcrumbs 1 cup grated Parmesan, divided 1 large egg, lightly beaten 2 tablespoons bal[Read More]

Watch Rachel Featured again on Twin Cities Live! This week it was all about easy appetizers. You have all the tips you need for summer entertaining and even making those special summer drinks. Something to talk about. Now lets give you some delicio[Read More]

4 oz smoked salmon (1 cup flaked with fork) 1 8oz package cream cheese, softened 2-3 tablespoons milk 3 green onions chopped small 1 tablespoon lemon juice 5-8 dashes hot sauce (like Tabasco) more if you like things spicier 1 teaspoon dried d[Read More]

I love this shape because you can make several different bites, really quickly and it does not involve any special folding techniques. Just simply spread your topping, roll it up, slice, bake and you have lots of easy appetizers quickly. 1 sheet p[Read More]

Start with a 3in square piece of puff pastry dough. Lightly fold the dough in half to form a triangle. Make two incisions one centimeter from each edge of the triangle towards the point, but stopping short of the corner. Unfold the triangle int[Read More]

1 cup all purpose flour 1 cup whole-wheat flour ½ teaspoon baking soda ¼ teaspoon baking powder ¼ teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon cinnamon ½ teaspoon nutmeg 1 egg 1 cup white sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla extract ½ teaspoon almo[Read More]

  2 cups all purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking soda ¼ teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg ½ cup butter, softened ½ cup brown sugar 2 eggs, beaten 1 teaspoon vanilla 2-3 medium overripe bananas, m[Read More]

5 lbs. red potatoes 8-12 slices bacon, raw chopped ½ cup white vinegar 1 ½ cup water ¾ cup sugar 3 tablespoons flour 1 large onion, diced In a large stock pot boil potatoes with skin on until slightly soft (do not overcook or[Read More]

1 (16 ounce) package uncooked penne pasta 2 large tomatoes, chopped (2 cups) 1 (7 ounce) jar sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained but reserve the oil chopped (1/2 cup) 2 (4 ounce) packages crumbled feta cheese 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley [Read More]

How to make a delicious green smoothie in 4 steps: Choose your Liquid 1-1 ½ cups Pick your Greens about 1-2 cups Pick 2-3 Flavor Additions about 1-1 ½ cups total Blend thoroughly till smooth and adjust with optional items if necessary. L[Read More]

Springtime is here! Brunch is perfect for celebrating the new season. It is also a great reason to entertain, especially if you are new to entertaining or on a budget. Brunch, typically served mid-morning, is relatively inexpensive and simple to p[Read More]

Spring is on its way! Time to lighten up and enjoy some of the fresh items that are available this time of year. Here are some great ways to add fresh appeal to your ordinary meals using the five elements of The Pretty Plate. Watch Twin Cities Live [Read More]

Puff pastry, that flaky melt-in-your-mouth dough; layers of rich heavenly delight. It is something I always have on hand because it is a culinary blank canvas. It goes with anything, can take on a variety of shapes and uses, and is perfect for both s[Read More]

Here is one of the simple tips that I let the hosts of Twin Cities Live demonstrate and how you can achieve it at home. You mostly likely already have everything you need. Adding a little drizzle not only adds design to a plate it adds another e[Read More]

3/4     lb         chicken breast cooked and sliced into strips 1/2     lb         cooked Spaghetti, cooked and cooled 1/3     Cup     shredded carrots 4          Each    green onion thinly sliced 1/3     Cup     dry roasted peanuts chopp[Read More]

There is nothing better than relaxing on a warm evening with an ice cold summer drink. This has been a long time family favorite, I actually remember sipping on these as a kid the non- alcoholic version of course. What I love about this summer drink [Read More]

These molten lava cakes are sure to delight your guests and make you look like a star in the kitchen. They fit everything from casual events with children to sophisticated dinner parties. With only five ingredients and you can prepare them in [Read More]

This is one of our family favorites as we love Italian food.  This dish is easy and can suite a variety of different tastes making it a perfect make ahead meal or freezer meal. Our family will often get together and make hundreds at a time making it [Read More]