Zest For Cooking

Double Chocolate Buckwheat Cookies

September 28, 2023 by pamflo

I’m working with a unique brand of roasted buckwheat called Koktem. They’re a family-owned small business based in San Diego, California and very passionate about promoting healthy eating habits and sharing their love of buckwheat. Buckwheat is naturally gluten-free, making it an excellent option for individuals with a gluten allergy or sensitivity. It’s a rich source of high-quality protein, essential amino acids and dietary fiber. Perfectly moist and loaded with rich chocolate flavor, these cookies are a delectable treat for […]

Categories: Chocolate, Cookies, Desserts, Easy Recipes, Gluten Free, Holiday Ideas • Tags: Bake, Grind

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Rustic Apple Crostata

September 21, 2023 by pamflo

As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, there’s no better way to celebrate the season than with a delicious dessert that captures the essence of autumn. This rustic apple crostata is a simple yet elegant creation that brings together the natural sweetness of ripe apples, the earthy aroma of cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves and a flaky, buttery free form crust. With so many apple varieties it’s almost hard to choose a baking apple. Braeburn, Gala, Honeycrisp, Granny Smith […]

Categories: Crowd Pleaser, Desserts, Easy Recipes, Fruit, Holiday Ideas, Pies/Tarts • Tags: Bake

Late Summer Ratatouille

September 14, 2023 by pamflo

As the sun’s rays start to mellow and the days grow shorter, late summer is the perfect time to savor the bounty of the season with a roasted vegetable ratatouille. This dish captures the essence of late summer’s harvest by combining the flavors of sun-ripened tomatoes, tender eggplant, zucchini and squash, vibrant bell peppers and fragrant herbs. Roasting the vegetables infuses them with a deep flavor and a delightful way to showcase the produce. Let the vegetables roast until the […]

Categories: Crowd Pleaser, Dairy Free, Easy Recipes, Gluten Free, Healthish, Holiday Ideas, Side Dish, Vegetables • Tags: Roast

Simple Fish Stew

September 7, 2023 by pamflo

This delightful recipe combines tender fish fillets with aromatic fennel, fragrant garlic and the subtle elegance of white wine. Fennel, known for its distinct licorice undertones, brings a unique twist to this dish. Beyond its remarkable flavor, fennel boasts an impressive array of nutritional benefits including a source of vitamin C, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. The anise-like notes of fennel meld perfectly with the rich undertones of garlic, while the white wine lends a delicate acidity that elevates the dish. […]

Categories: Dairy Free, Easy Recipes, Gluten Free, Healthish, Holiday Ideas, Lunch Ideas, One-Pot Meals, Seafood, Soups/Stews • Tags: Simmer

Chilled Cucumber Soup

August 31, 2023 by pamflo

With this chilled soup, the crispness of cucumbers meets the vibrant tang of lime juice, while the subtle sweetness of honey complements the fresh aroma of basil. Elevating the experience is the velvety richness of cashew butter, lending a luscious creaminess that’s both satisfying and indulgent. No cooking is required and after a few hours in the fridge, this cucumber soup will be so creamy, cool, bright, and refreshing that you won’t be able to resist going back for seconds. […]

Categories: Appetizer, Crowd Pleaser, Dairy Free, Easy Recipes, Gluten Free, Healthish, Lunch Ideas, Soup, Vegetables • Tags: No Cooking, Whiz

Honey Deuce Cocktail

August 24, 2023 by pamflo

Inspired by the signature cocktail served at the US Tennis Open, the Honey Deuce pays homage to the classic summery combination of vodka, lemonade and a splash of raspberry liqueur, making it a true delight for both casual fans and seasoned tennis enthusiasts. This cocktail is reminiscent of the iconic tennis ball, with delicate floating honeydew melon balls adorning the glass. Its sweet and tangy flavor profile, balanced with the gentle warmth of vodka, transforms every sip into a moment […]

Categories: Alcohol, Boozy, Cocktail, Crowd Pleaser, Game Day • Tags: No Cooking, Shake

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Watermelon Gazpacho

August 17, 2023 by pamflo

The delightful flavors of watermelon, ripe tomatoes and cucumbers come together to create this sweet and savory chilled soup. Enhanced with a hint of smoky paprika and a touch of sherry vinegar, this gazpacho boasts a depth of flavor that perfectly balances the sweet and savory elements. The paprika infuses a subtle, earthy undertone, while the sherry vinegar lends a gentle acidity that brightens up every spoonful. The velvety consistency of blended watermelon and tomatoes is enlivened by the refreshing […]

Categories: Appetizer, Crowd Pleaser, Dairy Free, Easy Recipes, Fruit, Gluten Free, Healthish, Holiday Ideas, Lunch Ideas, Vegetables • Tags: No Cooking, Whiz

Plum and Slivered Almond Galette

August 10, 2023 by pamflo

Indulge in the delightful flavors of summer with this delicious plum galette. Bursting with the natural sweetness of ripe, juicy plums and adorned with a golden-brown, flaky crust, this rustic dessert is a true celebration of the season. This traditional French pie crust called pâte brisée, which means “shortcrust pastry” forms a buttery, flaky and slightly crumbly crust, and the perfect foundation for a variety of sweet and savory delicacies. The addition of slivered almonds adds a delightful nutty crunch […]

Categories: Crowd Pleaser, Desserts, Easy Recipes, Fruit, Holiday Ideas, Pies/Tarts • Tags: Bake

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Savory Tomato Gratin

August 3, 2023 by pamflo

Although it seems almost sinful to cook beautifully ripe tomatoes at the height of the summer, this dish intensifies the flavor of the tomatoes. A classic gratin is usually a dish of layered vegetables topped with cheese and buttery breadcrumbs. My version is a simple dish with large juicy tomato slices, a sprinkling of parmesan cheese, fresh herbs and a splash of balsamic vinegar. Uncomplicated yet utterly satisfying, this recipe is a testament to the simple pleasures of seasonal cooking […]

Categories: Appetizer, Crowd Pleaser, Easy Recipes, Gluten Free, Healthish, Lunch Ideas, Side Dish • Tags: Bake

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Summer Corn Chowder

July 27, 2023 by pamflo

Indulge in the delicious flavors of summer with this vibrant and refreshing corn chowder, enriched with the creamy goodness of coconut milk. Bursting with the season’s sweetest corn, this dairy-free twist on the classic chowder is perfect for those seeking a lighter chowder. When shopping for corn, the husks should be bright green and wrapped tightly against the kernels. I sometimes take a tiny peek by peeling back the husk an inch or so, to make sure the kernels are […]

Categories: Appetizer, Crowd Pleaser, Dairy Free, Easy Recipes, Gluten Free, Healthish, Lunch Ideas, Soup • Tags: Simmer

Spicy Watermelon and Feta Salad

July 20, 2023 by pamflo

Beat the summer heat with this refreshing and vibrant salad! This delightful dish is a true fusion of flavors, where the coolness of the watermelon beautifully contrasts with the tangy saltiness of the feta, all enhanced by a subtle kick of spiciness. The addition of fresh mint adds a burst of herbal freshness. Perfect for a light lunch, a side dish or even as a unique party appetizer, this salad is a sublime balance of sweet, savory and spicy flavors. […]

Categories: Appetizer, Crowd Pleaser, Easy Recipes, Fruit, Gluten Free, Healthish, Holiday Ideas, Salads, Side Dish • Tags: No Cooking

Summer Salad with Peaches, Pepitas and Mozzarella Cheese

July 13, 2023 by pamflo

This vibrant and delicious summer salad combines the best flavors of early summer, featuring juicy peaches, creamy avocado, crunchy pepitas and fresh mozzarella cheese. Bursting with freshness and complemented by a splash of extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar, this salad is a perfect choice for warm summer days when you crave a light meal. The salad is not only visually stunning but also offers a healthy dose of essential nutrients and antioxidants. Whether enjoyed as a side dish […]

Categories: Appetizer, Crowd Pleaser, Easy Recipes, Fruit, Gluten Free, Greens, Healthish, Lunch Ideas, Salads • Tags: No Cooking

Blueberry Cashew Smoothie

July 6, 2023 by pamflo

Blueberries are low in calories, high in fiber and help reduce the risk of chronic disease. Studies show that blueberries can also improve heart and brain health. The cashews not only lend a velvety texture but also provide a dose of healthy fats and essential minerals, while the juicy blueberries infuse a burst of natural sweetness. These healthy and delicious ingredients come together in this smoothie with the addition of mint leaves, a squeeze of lime juice and a pinch […]

Categories: Beverage, Breakfast Ideas, Dairy Free, Easy Recipes, Fruit, Gluten Free, Healthish, Smoothies/Shakes • Tags: No Cooking, Whiz

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Strawberry Nut Crumble

June 29, 2023 by pamflo

Strawberries are an iconic summer treat – sweet, juicy and a little tart. Fresh strawberries can be easily transformed into a bubbly, fragrant and beautiful dessert. This crumble is gluten free, diary free and a perfect way to enjoy strawberry season. As the strawberries bake and release their natural juices, they form a luscious, fruity filling that pairs harmoniously with the nutty crumble topping. Serve your crumble warm with an ice cream of your choice. Don’t be surprised if it […]

Categories: Crowd Pleaser, Dairy Free, Desserts, Easy Recipes, Game Day, Gluten Free, Healthish, Holiday Ideas, Low Sugar, Nuts, Pies/Tarts • Tags: Bake

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Roasted Asparagus Wrapped In Prosciutto

June 22, 2023 by pamflo

Indulge in mouthwatering flavors with a delightful recipe for asparagus. This elegant dish combines the earthy taste of asparagus with the salty richness of prosciutto, enhanced by parmesan cheese and vibrant lemon zest. The contrasting textures and harmonious flavors create a delicious combination. When purchasing fresh asparagus look for firm stalks and closed tips. Asparagus should be used within 2 days of purchase and can be stored with the ends wrapped in a damp paper towel. You can peel the […]

Categories: Appetizer, Crowd Pleaser, Easy Recipes, Game Day, Holiday Ideas, Side Dish, Vegetables • Tags: Roast

Double Chocolate Brownies with Beer Malt Vinegar

June 15, 2023 by pamflo

These fudgy squares of chocolatey bliss are infused with the unexpected tang and depth of flavor from beer malt vinegar. Yes, you read it right—beer malt vinegar! I used American Vinegar Works Beer Malt Vinegar which provides a more intense chocolate zing and balance to the sweetness of the brownies. The addition of vinegar adds a unique flavor that perfectly complements the intense chocolatey goodness. American Vinegar Works, is a small group of craft vinegar makers in New England. Their […]

Categories: Brownies, Chocolate, Crowd Pleaser, Desserts, Easy Recipes, Gifts, Holiday Ideas • Tags: Bake

Homemade Salt and Vinegar Potato Chips

June 8, 2023 by pamflo

This delectable recipe offers a twist on the classic potato chip by infusing it with the unmistakable tang of vinegar. By utilizing vinegar powder, you can achieve a mouthwatering balance of salty and acidic flavors, creating a snack that is both addictive and easy to make. The delicate balance of salt and tangy vinegar creates a mouthwatering explosion of flavors that will make your homemade chips rival any store-bought variety. The secret to a crispy potato chip is maintaining the […]

Categories: Chips, Cooking Tips, Crowd Pleaser, Dairy Free, Game Day, Gluten Free, Holiday Ideas, Snack • Tags: Fry

Zesty Lemonade

June 1, 2023 by pamflo

Introducing a delightful twist on the classic lemonade: an irresistibly tangy and refreshingly lemony concoction that will invigorate your taste buds! This vibrant lemonade recipe features two different types of homemade simple syrup. One infused with the aromatic essence of lemon zest and the other with the natural sweetness of golden honey. With its zesty kick and subtle floral undertones, every sip of this lemonade is a burst of sunshine. Serve the chilled lemonade over ice, it’s a harmonious blend […]

Categories: Beverage, Crowd Pleaser, Dairy Free, Drinks, Easy Recipes, Gluten Free, Holiday Ideas, Low Sugar • Tags: Simmer

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Decadent Chocolate Veggie Muffins

May 25, 2023 by pamflo

Perfectly moist, wonderfully nutritious and bursting with chocolaty goodness, these muffins offer a guilt-free treat that will satisfy your sweet cravings while adding a generous dose of hidden veggies.The combination of shredded zucchini and mashed avocado are a perfect base for the batter. I also like that it’s a low sugar treat and a solid breakfast idea. My muffins are dairy and free of gluten, as I substituted gluten-free flour for regular all-purpose. You don’t actually taste the zucchini in […]

Categories: Breakfast Ideas, Chocolate, Crowd Pleaser, Dairy Free, Desserts, Easy Recipes, Gluten Free, Healthish, Vegetables • Tags: Bake

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Spicy Sesame Cucumber Salad

May 18, 2023 by pamflo

This spicy cucumber salad is a deliciously tangy and refreshing dish that packs a punch! Thinly sliced cucumbers are tossed in a tangy dressing made with rice vinegar, sesame oil, soy sauce, honey and chili garlic sauce for a spicy kick. The best substitute for chili garlic sauce is sriracha or sambal oelek. In a pinch, red chili flakes will work. The sesame seeds add a nutty crunch that complements the cool and refreshing cucumbers perfectly. This salad is vegan, […]

Categories: Appetizer, Dairy Free, Easy Recipes, Gluten Free, Healthish, Lunch Ideas, Seeds, Side Dish, Vegetables • Tags: No Cooking

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Cashew Butter and Honey Cookies

May 11, 2023 by pamflo

My all time favorite cookie is the sesame tahini cookies, which you can find in the zestforcooking archives. I have to say that these delicious cashew butter cookies come in at a very close second! The combination of the cashew butter and honey is just irresistible. For mostly decorative purposes, these cookies similar to peanut butter cookies, usually have fork tine marks or criss-cross marks imprinted on the top of the raw cookie dough. Nut butter doughs are usually thick […]

Categories: Cookies, Crowd Pleaser, Desserts, Easy Recipes, Gifts, Holiday Ideas, Nuts • Tags: Bake

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