thanksgiving

baba ghannoush with poached pistachio puree

by Jackie Newgent  |  November 28, 2016  |  0 Comments
It’s the most wonderful time of the year … if you’re a Christmas “geek” like I am! I love to entertain during the holiday season! There’s almost always going to be a dip available when I host a gathering. Every year I whip up one that’s new. So, here’s this year’s creation—an inspired take on baba ghannoush (Middle Eastern eggplant dip). Poached pistachio puree is what makes this recipe special. I use it here in place of tahini for a unique taste twist and velvety texture. And beyond just a dip, baba ghannoush makes a delightful bruschetta topping … including this version.
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seasonal pumpkin and sage risotto

by Jackie Newgent  |  November 3, 2014  |  2 Comments
Risotto is a comfort food that I adore—especially as the weather turns colder. But whole grain risotto is not easily found on restaurant menus. So this is one dish I prefer to make at home. And seasonal pumpkin and sage risotto is definitely at the top of my list! Sorry in advance to risotto traditionalists! But since classic preparation of risotto can take patience, I’m sharing with you my cheater version!  Simply use short grain brown rice for an excellent risotto-style entrée that’s easier and more intriguing than the conventional version. Luckily, this kind of cheating is a good thing! The short grain rice provides a perfectly sticky texture that’s ideal for risotto making.
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creamy roasted butternut squash soup

by Jackie Newgent  |  November 26, 2013  |  0 Comments
  Butternut squash is one of my favorite veggies to enjoy during the holidays, especially when roasted. How about you? And when roasted and pureed into a soup (hello, creamy roasted butternut squash soup!), it’s divinely comforting. I’ll be enjoying this simple, creamy, vegan-friendly soup often. I hope to hear you slurping up its sweet and savory goodness often, too. Happy holidays!
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lemon-dill cannellini dip

by Jackie Newgent  |  November 21, 2012  |  0 Comments
I’m an appetizer kind of gal. That means sometimes I prefer a plate of tasty bites and dips in lieu of a typical meal. So here’s a lovely dip that I just whipped up. It’s great for on any appetizer table–casual or dressy. So why do dip? Dunking into them can actually be a delicious way to boost veggie intake. On the other hand, some dips are so excessively high in calories that they’re not worth the couple minutes of indulgence. However, when you can turn a dip into a still indulgent one with nothing but “good” ingredients … go for it. That’s what this recipe is all about. You’ll love this creamy, beany concoction. It’s worthy of scooping up...
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