Category Archives: Holiday Ideas

Prosecco Pomegranate Cocktail

December 30, 2020 by pamflo

A sparkly, festive cocktail seems like the perfect way to close out a crazy year! The fresh orange juice in this cocktail recipe balances the tartness of the pomegranate juice. On another note, I want to say thank you to all my followers. I really appreciate your comments, questions, food photos and “likes”. I continue to welcome your feedback, thoughts and ideas. I look forward to more great food and drink recipes in 2021. Happy New Year to all!

Categories: Alcohol, Boozy, Cocktail, Crowd Pleaser, Fruit, Holiday Ideas • Tags: No Cooking

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Chocolate Swirl Peppermint Bark

December 23, 2020 by pamflo

Chocolate bark is an easy and delicious dessert for a party, a perfect gift or a treat just for you. A timely snow storm provided a free day for some fun projects. Most professional chocolate is “tempered”, or heated and cooled to a certain temperature to stabilize the chocolate. This ensures a shiny finish, a firm bite and a longer shelf life. This process takes time and a bit of skill. This bark recipe doesn’t require tempering. Chocolate that is not […]

Categories: Chocolate, Crowd Pleaser, Desserts, Gluten Free, Holiday Ideas • Tags: Melt

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Mint Chocolate Sable Cookies

December 17, 2020 by pamflo

I had the privilege of meeting Dorie Greenspan, baker extraordinaire and cookbook author. She has published many beautiful cookbooks, but Dorie’s Cookies is a wonderful gift for any baker. At a recent book signing event, the discussion about her food journey was heartfelt, warm and funny. Listening to her speak about making cookies, reminded me how much I enjoy baking during the holidays. Sables are French butter cookies and they’re a perfect holiday gift or treat. The smooth, deep minty […]

Categories: Chocolate, Cookies, Crowd Pleaser, Desserts, Gifts, Holiday Ideas • Tags: Bake

Double Chocolate Baked Donuts

December 10, 2020 by pamflo

Decadent and easy, you will never know these divine double chocolate donuts are grain free. All you’ll need is a standard donut pan to make this fun and easy dessert (or breakfast treat)! Coconut flour is a very good alternative flour in gluten-free baking. It has the ability to absorb liquid and provides a perfect substitute for all-purpose flour in many gluten-free baked goods. Often the challenge in gluten-free baking is finding the correct proportion and balance of ingredients to […]

Categories: Chocolate, Crowd Pleaser, Dairy Free, Desserts, Donuts, Gluten Free, Healthish, Holiday Ideas • Tags: Bake

Roast Tenderloin of Beef with Horseradish Sauce

November 24, 2020 by pamflo

Roasted beef tenderloin is without a doubt incredibly decadent! A dish for a celebratory occasion. In the years that I hosted a large family Thanksgiving, I would make both beef tenderloin and roast turkey. There was always leftover turkey and never leftovers of the beef. This was one of the best dishes at my New York culinary program many years ago. Naomi Pomeroy of Beast in Portland, OR, made this dish with grass-fed beef, and it was outstanding. If the […]

Categories: Crowd Pleaser, Gluten Free, Holiday Ideas, Lunch Ideas, Meat/Poultry • Tags: Roast

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Chopped Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad

November 19, 2020 by pamflo

With Thanksgiving one week away, here is an easy raw salad to lighten your meal. The combination of flavors is fantastic, but feel free to mixed it up and use almonds, pistachios or pepitas and tart dried cherries, as a substitute for the walnuts and cranberries. Brussels sprouts are especially rich in vitamin K and vitamin C. They have a high fiber content which helps support regularity and gut health. Brussels sprouts, broccoli, cabbage and cauliflower as well as other cruciferous vegetables are […]

Categories: Appetizer, Crowd Pleaser, Gluten Free, Greens, Healthish, Holiday Ideas, Lunch Ideas, Nuts, Vegetarian • Tags: No Cooking

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Simple Roast Turkey

November 12, 2020 by pamflo

Turkey is a delicious Thanksgiving tradition, juicy, crispy and tender! My first turkey experience required me to pluck the turkey feathers, an experience I hope never to have again! I’ve brined turkey in herbs, apple cider and even bourbon. I’ve cooked organic, kosher and heritage turkeys. I’ve tried a dry brine but have never been brave enough to deep fry a turkey. I will leave that to the fearless. From all my experiences, I think that a simple roast turkey […]

Categories: Crowd Pleaser, Gluten Free, Holiday Ideas, Meat/Poultry • Tags: Roast

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Brandy and Butter Glazed Carrots

November 5, 2020 by pamflo

The Thanksgiving buzz has begun! It starts when cooking magazines arrive at my house with photos of gleaming turkeys and perfectly plated sides. For the years that I hosted the Thanksgiving feast, my preparations typically started in October. I would start with making and freezing turkey stock, baking breads and making ice cream. I would usually assign the side dishes to willing family members. Although this year will be a very small gathering, this brandy and butter glaze adds a […]

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

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Heirloom Tomato Galette

September 17, 2020 by pamflo

The 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 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. A slice of this galette served warm […]

Categories: Appetizer, Crowd Pleaser, Holiday Ideas, Lunch Ideas, Pies/Tarts, Side Dish • Tags: Bake

Seafood Bake

September 3, 2020 by pamflo

This flavorful and fun seafood bake is perfect for the holiday weekend! It is like squeezing summer all onto one pan, with shrimp, sausage, clams, and veggies all cooked together on one sheet tray. I tossed the ingredients with a combination of butter, olive oil and Old Bay seasoning. I blanched the potatoes and corn ahead of time in lightly salted boiling water, and pre-cooked spicy Italian sausages instead of the classic andouille sausage, before adding to the sheet tray. […]

Categories: Appetizer, Crowd Pleaser, Gluten Free, Healthish, Holiday Ideas, One-Pot Meals, Seafood • Tags: Bake

Tomato Citrus Salad

July 2, 2020 by pamflo

I’m struck by how delightful this tomato citrus salad is, with its distinct flavors. With the farmers markets re-opening and stocked with big, juicy tomatoes and fresh basil, this is a simple salad to assemble. The addition of avocado and crushed pistachios is optional, but adds crunch. Customize your own salad with a variation on the type of nuts or by adding fresh burrata or mozzarella cheese. Add a drizzle of good olive oil, a squeeze of orange juice and […]

Categories: Appetizer, Crowd Pleaser, Dairy Free, Fruit, Gluten Free, Healthish, Holiday Ideas, Lunch Ideas, Nuts, Side Dish, Vegetables • Tags: No Cooking

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Grilled Watermelon Slices

June 25, 2020 by pamflo

Celebrate and savor watermelon season by grilling thick, sweet slices! Whether you fire-up your grill or use a grill-pan, grilled watermelon is healthy and delicious. Simply cut your watermelon into thick slices leaving the rind on. Grilling watermelon changes the texture of the fruit, brings out its natural sweetness and adds a subtle smoky flavor. I grilled lime halves alongside the watermelon. With a pinch of sea salt, fresh mint leaves and a squeeze of the smoky lime juice, you […]

Categories: Crowd Pleaser, Dairy Free, Dessert, Fruit, Gluten Free, Healthish, Holiday Ideas, Low Sugar • Tags: Grill

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Chocolate Chip Meringues

April 9, 2020 by pamflo

Light, airy, melt-in-your mouth and gluten free, meringues are surprisingly simple to make! The secret to crispy meringues are whipping the egg whites to a creamy, white firm peak. You can either use a standing mixer with the whip attachment, or a hand mixer. Although, when I was in cooking school we had to whip the egg whites by hand — it builds muscle! The key steps are to whip room temperature egg whites until they’re a little creamy, slowly adding […]

Categories: Chocolate, Cookies, Crowd Pleaser, Dairy Free, Dessert, Eggs, Holiday Ideas, Passover Recipes • Tags: Bake, Whip

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Charred Broccolini with Slivered Almonds

March 12, 2020 by pamflo

This is a quick and easy vegetable dish to make! Broccolini is a cross between regular broccoli and Chinese broccoli. It has smaller florets and the entire plant is edible, including the stalks and leaves. Broccolini has a more mild and subtle earthy flavor, compared to regular broccoli. It has antioxidant properties and is high in beta carotene, which helps promote healthy skin. Broccolini can be sautéed, steamed, roasted, and grilled. With a couple of tablespoons of water I first steamed […]

Categories: Gluten Free, Greens, Healthish, Holiday Ideas, Nuts, Side Dish, Vegetables • Tags: Sauté

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Molten Chocolate Cakes

February 13, 2020 by pamflo

As the snow falls lightly but steadily, I’m in my kitchen baking away. In anticipation of Valentine’s Day, it was necessary to break out a favorite indulgent dessert, incredibly oozy-gooey and delicious! There’s nothing as wonderful as the aroma of a cake baking, especially one with chocolate and espresso. Espresso powder is perfect for baked goods as its more concentrated and has a deeper flavor than regular coffee granules. Just a teaspoon will give a richer flavor to your chocolate recipes, […]

Categories: Cakes, Chocolate, Crowd Pleaser, Dessert, Holiday Ideas • Tags: Bake, Whip

Cranberry Daiquiris

December 26, 2019 by pamflo

For the last few years, I’ve posted a cocktail recipe in preparation for the holidays. My friend and cocktail expert, Katherine Steiger, wrote a guest post. Happy New Year! Cranberry daiquiris are a holiday tradition at our house. They look beautiful served in a martini glass filled with crushed ice and are absolutely delicious, but my favorite part might be the cranberries. They’re cooked with orange zest and cinnamon sticks to flavor the simple syrup for the cocktail. Then you steep […]

Categories: Alcohol, Boozy, Cocktail, Crowd Pleaser, Dairy Free, Drinks, Gluten Free, Holiday Ideas • Tags: Simmer

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Double Chocolate Expresso Cookies

December 19, 2019 by pamflo

A couple of years ago I entered a holiday cookie recipe contest on-line through the LA Times. I submitted this cookie recipe and although I didn’t win, it was fun to participate and see all the other cookie recipe submissions. These double chocolatey, ooey-gooey, decadent cookies are a family favorite and don’t contain any flour! I added instant expresso for added punch, as well as dark chocolate chunks. Although these cookies are gluten free, they are super flavorful and provide […]

Categories: Chocolate, Cookies, Crowd Pleaser, Dairy Free, Dessert, Gluten Free, Holiday Ideas • Tags: Bake

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Pecan Shortbread Cookies

December 12, 2019 by pamflo

Shortbread is a biscuit made with three parts flour, two parts butter and one part white sugar. The fat from the butter creates “short” gluten strands and produces a cookie that’s crisp and crumbly in texture. Your kitchen will smell wonderful while these buttery cookies bake and they make beautiful holiday gifts! Chopped pecans mixed into the dough adds a nice nutty flavor. You can add even more nuts on the warm chocolate coated ends. Measuring the dough you will […]

Categories: Cookies, Crowd Pleaser, Dessert, Gifts, Holiday Ideas, Nuts • Tags: Bake

Hearty Vegetable and Bean Soup

December 5, 2019 by pamflo

Umami is a savory flavor sometimes referred to as the fifth taste alongside sweet, salty, sour and bitter. Naturally occurring in foods such as mushrooms, cheese, fish, meat, tomatoes and soy beans, to name a few. Sometimes when you have a dish that seems to be missing something, it’s often the umami flavor. This soup has an abundance of umami. Both the buttery parmesan rind that dissolves in the soup and the pungent anchovy paste, provide great depth of flavor. […]

Categories: Appetizer, Bacon, Beans, Crowd Pleaser, Gluten Free, Healthish, Holiday Ideas, Lunch Ideas, Soups/Stews, Vegetables • Tags: Sauté, Simmer

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Spicy Glazed Cashew Nuts

November 26, 2019 by pamflo

If this isn’t your year to host the holidays and are lucky enough to be a guest, maybe you’re in need of a hostess/host gift idea. This is an easy and healthier version of glazed nuts, using maple syrup or honey as a substitute for granulated sugar. Turmeric, a plant that’s part of the ginger family, has curcumin as the main active ingredient. Turmeric has significant health benefits ranging from anti-inflammatory properties to providing antioxidants. Research shows that the curcumin […]

Categories: Appetizer, Crowd Pleaser, Dairy Free, Gluten Free, Healthish, Holiday Ideas, Low Sugar, Nuts, Snack • Tags: Roast

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Roasted Root Vegetables

November 21, 2019 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 or vegetable peeler, cut vertical strips from top to bottom until you’ve removed all the skin. When exposed to the air, the creamy flesh will turn brown, but […]

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

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Zest For Cooking

I love to cook and share my love of food!

Category Archives: Holiday Ideas

Prosecco Pomegranate Cocktail

Chocolate Swirl Peppermint Bark

Mint Chocolate Sable Cookies

Double Chocolate Baked Donuts

Roast Tenderloin of Beef with Horseradish Sauce

Chopped Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad

Simple Roast Turkey

Brandy and Butter Glazed Carrots

Heirloom Tomato Galette

Seafood Bake

Tomato Citrus Salad

Grilled Watermelon Slices

Chocolate Chip Meringues

Charred Broccolini with Slivered Almonds

Molten Chocolate Cakes

Cranberry Daiquiris

Double Chocolate Expresso Cookies

Pecan Shortbread Cookies

Hearty Vegetable and Bean Soup

Spicy Glazed Cashew Nuts

Roasted Root Vegetables