Category Archives: Breakfast Ideas

Heirloom Tomato Galette

July 20, 2017 by pamflo

The Farmers Markets are in full swing and bursting with amazing fresh produce. The highlight for me are the ripe, colorful and juicy heirloom tomatoes. This tasty, savory tart is made with a simple crust combining butter and crème fraîche. The crust can be made a day ahead and be refrigerated overnight. The filling is a delicious combination of heirloom tomatoes and manchego cheese, a popular Spanish sheep’s milk cheese with a tangy, nutty flavor profile. A slice of this […]

Categories: Appetizer, Breakfast Ideas, Cheeses, Lunch Ideas, Vegetarian • Tags: Bake

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Cured Salmon

July 6, 2017 by pamflo

“There has never been a sadness that can’t be cured by breakfast food!” – Ron Swanson Making your own cured salmon is fun and easy, but plan ahead because the curing process takes a few days. Curing is preserving fish, meat or vegetables by smoking, salting or drying. The curing mixture of salt, sugar, and spices dehydrates the food. A fresh center cut piece of Atlantic salmon or the bright pink wild salmon are good choices. If possible when purchasing […]

Categories: Appetizer, Breakfast Ideas, Dairy Free, Gluten Free, Seafood • Tags: No Cooking

Huevos Rancheros

June 8, 2017 by pamflo

Huevos Rancheros is a fiery and flavorful Mexican breakfast dish often made with fried eggs, a spicy chili salsa and served over corn tortillas. The tomato based salsa can be as mild or spicy as you can tolerate. For the peppery kick, I used canned chipotle chilies and pureed the sauce for a smooth salsa, but keeping the sauce chunky is an option as well. This dish is a great choice for a quick, casual breakfast. You can also consider […]

Categories: Breakfast Ideas, Dairy Free, Eggs, Snack • Tags: Fry, Sauté

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Coconut Banana Pancakes

March 30, 2017 by pamflo

I had the good fortune to spend time in Puerto Rico, enjoying the beautiful sites, the warm weather and delicious food. On foot, we roamed a local neighborhood in search of a casual cafe with their own homegrown produce. The Las Vistas Cafe is an open-aired patio which is part of the proprietor’s home, with breathtaking views of the ocean. Gladys, the owner, greeted us with the warmth of a grandmother, as she did with all her guests. The first […]

Categories: Breakfast Ideas, Dairy Free, Gluten Free, Low Sugar, Snack • Tags: Griddle

Caramelized Citrus Slices

January 19, 2017 by pamflo

Fresh produce is limited in the New England winter months, with the exception of citrus. The variety of citrus options are outstanding. Craving a satisfying healthy dessert, I made these caramelized citrus slices. Experiment with different fruit, like tangerines, grapefruit and an assortment of oranges. After refrigerating, serve the lightly caramelized slices and the accumulated juices over greek yogurt with a sprig of mint for an easy, light dessert or snack. 4 oranges, a variety of types (I used cara cara, navel and blood oranges) […]

Categories: Breakfast Ideas, Dairy Free, Dessert, Gluten Free, Snack • Tags: Broil

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Oatmeal Soufflé

November 10, 2016 by pamflo

In the coming months, many people will host out-of-town visitors. This is an easy, healthy breakfast idea and a crowd pleaser that can be started ahead of time. The whipped egg whites folded into the oatmeal adds protein, as well as a light and airy texture to what would be an average breakfast. Almond or coconut milk works well as a non-dairy milk substitute. I sweetened the oatmeal with coconut sugar, an unrefined brown sugar but maple syrup or honey are […]

Categories: Appetizer, Breakfast Ideas, Eggs, Gluten Free, Low Sugar, Rice/Grains • Tags: Bake, Whip

Chia Seed Pudding

October 13, 2016 by pamflo

Chia seeds have been in the spotlight as a popular superfood. These small seeds pack a big nutrient punch. They’re gluten free, a great source of protein, fiber and omega-3 fatty acids. Dry chia seeds can be added to smoothies, oatmeal or yogurt for an easy breakfast. With a little unsweetened cocoa powder, these little seeds could be a quick and healthy dessert. I like the way they swell and thicken when immersed in liquid. This chia pudding requires no cooking and is […]

Categories: Breakfast Ideas, Dairy Free, Dessert, Gluten Free, Low Sugar, Pudding, Seeds • Tags: No Cooking

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Blueberry Muffins

September 1, 2016 by pamflo

Packed with antioxidants and nutrients, blueberries are in season for only a short time. If you buy fresh blueberries, either wild or cultivated, and can’t use them all, freeze them. Gently wash and pat berries dry, pick through to remove the stems and squashed ones. Place the berries on a sheet tray in one layer, and place in the freezer. Once frozen, store in a zip-lock freezer bag until ready for baking. They can be used right from the […]

Categories: Breakfast Ideas, Dessert, Muffins, Snack • Tags: Bake

Heirloom Tomatoes

August 18, 2016 by pamflo

These heirloom beauties are at their peak right now! A fabulous farmers market find. The heirloom varieties ripen faster than other types of tomatoes, so only buy enough to last for a few days. Please don’t store them in the refrigerator, but at room temperature instead. Pick tomatoes that are firm to the touch and free of open cracks. Fresh, ripe tomatoes really just need a sprinkle of sea salt to enjoy. That being said, here is a simple […]

Categories: Appetizer, Breakfast Ideas, Cheeses, Lunch Ideas, Sandwiches • Tags: No Cooking

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Dutch Baby Breakfast Pancake

July 21, 2016 by pamflo

I can honesty say that I’ve never had a dutch baby pancake before, so this was a first. This treat is a yummy cross between a pancake and a popover. I couldn’t wait until the puffy, light and beautiful pancake was done. I was tempted to add bacon as it’s a classic American breakfast ingredient, but I liked the simplicity of the fried eggs and avocado. You can even add smoked salmon or salad greens. The options are unlimited! It’s best eaten […]

Categories: Appetizer, Breakfast Ideas, Eggs, Lunch Ideas, Side Dish • Tags: Bake, Whiz

Lemon Blueberry Cake

May 19, 2016 by pamflo

I tried a few new recipes this week, with my son Lucas working as my intern and sous chef. This is one of the first recipes we baked. The start of blueberry season is here and they’re large, sweet and bursting with flavor. A Harvard study showed that over time eating blueberries can slow memory decline. Also high in vitamin C and fiber, they’re a true “superfood”. This blueberry loaf cake is mildly sweet, tart and divine. The blueberries sank to the bottom of the cake […]

Categories: Breakfast Ideas, Cakes, Dessert, Snack • Tags: Bake, Glaze, Whip

Fudgey Date Bars

March 17, 2016 by pamflo

Always in search of a healthy treat, I was inspired by this fudge recipe that uses dates as a base and provides its sweetness. Both the coconut oil and almond butter have a dual purpose by providing great flavor and the “glue”, without any flour. This fudge recipe involves no cooking and is easy to prepare. It’s just a quick trip through the food processor, a few hours of chilling, and it’s ready to serve. This is a great breakfast option, instead of […]

Categories: Bars, Breakfast Ideas, Dairy Free, Desserts, Gluten Free • Tags: Chill, Gluten Free, Whiz

Almond Joy Smoothie

March 10, 2016 by pamflo

“Sometimes you feel like a nut, sometimes you don’t. Almond Joy’s got nuts, Mounds don’t”! That’s the Hershey’s jingle from the 1970’s. The Almond Joy candy bar, an American classic, is a fantastic combination of almonds, coconut and chocolate. This smoothie recipe is a fusion of these flavors in a delicious and healthy beverage. 12 ounces coconut milk (I use the unsweetened, full-fat Native Forest brand) Option: The serving size of this full-fat coconut milk is 1/3 cup (about 3-4 ounces). Feel free […]

Categories: Beverages, Breakfast Ideas, Dairy Free, Gluten Free, Low Sugar, Lunch Ideas, Smoothies/Shakes, Vegetarian • Tags: Dairy Free, Gluten Free, Low Sugar, Whiz

Avocado Mash

February 18, 2016 by pamflo

Creamy and satisfying, avocado is a great part of any meal. Although high in calories, avocados provide a good dose of healthy fat, potassium, fiber and a variety of vitamins. When shopping for avocados, consider buying a few in different stages of ripeness, and avoid avocados that have soft spots and discoloration. Avocados are best when stored at room temperature. Wash the outside of the avocado before cutting, as not to transfer any bacteria from the skin to the inside. The flesh turns […]

Categories: Appetizer, Breakfast Ideas, Dairy Free, Gluten Free, Lunch Ideas, Snack, Vegetables, Vegetarian • Tags: Dairy Free, Gluten Free, No Cooking

Scrambled Egg and Avocado Tacos

January 28, 2016 by pamflo

Don’t underestimate the wakeup call that hot sauce can provide in the morning. Honestly, I never considered hot sauce for breakfast, but it turns out that the tangy sauce pairs perfectly with the creamy eggs. I’m often asked if I have any go-to “secret” ingredients in my pantry. Indeed I do, and Sriracha is one of them. This delicious recipe is not only for breakfast, as it also can be a great late afternoon snack. The combination of the blistered tortilla, steamy scrambled […]

Categories: Appetizer, Breakfast Ideas, Eggs, Gluten Free, Lunch Ideas, Snack • Tags: Char, Gluten Free, Scramble

Roasted Root Vegetables

November 23, 2015 by pamflo

Odd shaped and knobby, the root of the celery stalk is called celeriac. Although it’s not the most beautiful of the root vegetables, its subtle celery flavor is perfect for roasting. To prepare the celeriac, cut off both top and bottom ends so you have a flat base. With a sharp knife, cut vertical strips from top to bottom until you’ve removed all the skin. A vegetable peeler works too. When exposed to the air, the creamy flesh will turn brown, but […]

Categories: Appetizer, Breakfast Ideas, Dairy Free, Gluten Free, Side Dish, Vegetables, Vegetarian • Tags: Dairy Free, Gluten Free, Roast

Potato Waffles

November 12, 2015 by pamflo

Crispy, crunchy and scrumptious, these waffles were devoured immediately after they were photographed! Traditional potato pancakes are a family favorite, but I wanted a twist on a potato recipe and wow, this dish was spot on. If you’re having a small crowd for Thanksgiving this is a fun dish, and the waffles can be made ahead and re-heated in the oven. Post-Thanksgiving breakfast is a great idea too, with a potato waffle topped with smoked salmon and a poached egg. I made two versions of this dish, one gluten […]

Categories: Appetizer, Bacon, Breakfast Ideas, Dairy Free, Gluten Free, Lunch Ideas, Side Dish, Snack, Waffles/Pancakes • Tags: Dairy Free, Gluten Free, Waffles

Pumpkin Spice and Apple Muffins

November 5, 2015 by pamflo

The countdown to Thanksgiving has begun! The buzz usually begins when the November cooking magazine issue arrives, usually with a big, gleaming turkey on the cover. Spontaneously, I took a Thanksgiving IQ quiz in one of the magazines and learned that I’m hardly a master, even after 14 years of hosting. I didn’t know that pumpkin pie is America’s favorite pie! Talking about pumpkins, these pumpkin apple muffins make a great snack and actually have no white sugar, but are sweetened with maple syrup instead. […]

Categories: Appetizer, Breakfast Ideas, Fruit, Low Sugar, Muffins, Snack • Tags: Bake

Popovers

October 15, 2015 by pamflo

I have an interesting past with popovers. My sister and I spent a summer during our college years, working as popover girls for the Cape Cod location of Anthony’s Pier 4 Restaurant. We delivered popovers in a big wicker basket to each table, and with tongs we served every customer a hot, steamy popover. Popovers are not served very often in my house, but they are easy to make, and for me a reminder of those fun summer days. Popovers happen […]

Categories: Appetizer, Breakfast Ideas, Dessert, Lunch Ideas, Popovers, Snack • Tags: Bake, Whip

Sesame Peanut Bars

October 8, 2015 by pamflo

My younger son usually feels left out when I make nutty homemade energy bars, as most of the bars are made with tree nuts, and he has an allergy. Crunchy, healthy and yummy, these bars are made with sesame seeds and peanuts, a legume, not a tree nut. Sesame seeds are available in many colors such as, black, white, red and yellow, and are nutrient-dense and high in dietary fiber. These bars can be made with all white seeds, but the black sesame seeds provide […]

Categories: Bars, Beans/Legumes, Breakfast Ideas, Dairy Free, Dessert, Gluten Free, Nuts/Seeds, Snack • Tags: Bake, Dairy Free, Gluten Free

Olive Oil Fried Egg

July 16, 2015 by pamflo

Farm fresh eggs, extra-virgin olive oil and a skillet…that’s all you need…and salt and pepper of course. Sizzling goodness! Crispy edges and a warm gooey yolk, a perfect breakfast, a great lunch, or an easy dinner. I love the combination of the peppery taste of arugula, with a simple dressing of olive oil and a splash of fresh lemon juice. A perfect place for my fried egg. Extra virgin olive oil packs a flavor punch and has a higher smoke […]

Categories: Appetizer, Breakfast Ideas, Dairy Free, Gluten Free, Greens, Lunch Ideas, Salads, Side Dish, Snack • Tags: Dairy Free, Fried, Gluten Free

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Zest For Cooking

I love to cook and share my love of food!

Category Archives: Breakfast Ideas

Heirloom Tomato Galette

Cured Salmon

Huevos Rancheros

Coconut Banana Pancakes

Caramelized Citrus Slices

Oatmeal Soufflé

Chia Seed Pudding

Blueberry Muffins

Heirloom Tomatoes

Dutch Baby Breakfast Pancake

Lemon Blueberry Cake

Fudgey Date Bars

Almond Joy Smoothie

Avocado Mash

Scrambled Egg and Avocado Tacos

Roasted Root Vegetables

Potato Waffles

Pumpkin Spice and Apple Muffins

Popovers

Sesame Peanut Bars

Olive Oil Fried Egg