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2 Delicious LA Secrets for Foodies Only

Private Supper in Bankok, not LA, bit still fab.

It's late and I should be crawling into my luxurious, Tempur-Pedic+feather bed lair that is absolutely popping with pillows, but I'm not. I can't. I've just been told two delicious secrets that my fellow foodies from LA must be made aware of. So, without further ado, let me introduce you to:

THIS #1

and

THIS #2

Both will pique your curiosity to be sure. One will polish your palate to a fine sheen, one will test your tweet, tweet, twitter skills and possibly place you in one of the more posh spots to see and be seen on the scene in la la land. You must have luck and fast fingers for the later and a bit of scrilla and an open mind and empty stomach for the former. Either way, you very well could experience one of the best foodieasms of your life within the next few weeks ... so click and enjoy.

~XOXO~

LINDSAY JONES

Sushi Kiyono ~Beverly Hills~ 8.0

Last Wednesday night I got off work and wanted to treat myself to a really delicious sushi dinner without breaking the bank completely. Social Media just doesn't pay what it used to ... oh wait, it's the only semi-inflated job around right now :) Anyway, I've been coming to this little sushi spot on South Bev. for about 3 years now and I just adore it. (BTW, South Bev. is currently a mini-mecca of newly opened eateries from South Beverly Grill by the Hillstone group to a new Mediterranean place which name escapes me .. anyone?)

LINDSAY LOVES Kiyono Because:

1. Fresh, luxurious raw fish at a fair price in Beverly Hills ... unheard of.
2. Fabulous chefs at the bar that will semi-omakase you any time, meaning you can sit and ask them what's the freshest fishy of the day and they'll whip up a variety of things to tantalize your snobby taste buds, but there is no crazy bill that appears post impromptu fish fest.
3. They have La Crema Chard for under $10 a glass.
4. Their hot sake is soooooo reasonable.
5. The owner and his wife ( I think it's his wife) are the cutest couple ever and truly hospitable.
6. It's sceney enough to be fun but laid back enough to roll in alone in a Juicy suit and feel ok about it.
7. Spicy Tuna on Crispy Rice Cakes ... better than Koi I do believe.(Passed on these this time around because even foodflirt's gain weight sometimes.)

Here's what my mouth loved last Wednesday:

Properly Prepared Wasabi and Soy Sauce = 85% Wasabi 15% Soy ... apply to fish lightly using piece of ginger as a paint brush. You want to make a paste not a sauce.

 Needle Fish sashimi , delicate, tender, light  and sweet, no soy sauce needed.

Baked Crab Hand roll in Soy Paper with warm, perfectly sticky rice ... very good ... Koi's has more real crab, but is also twice the price.
 

The highlight of the night was my petite Persian cucumber tree made by the fabulous chef. Sprinkled with a tiny bit of sesame oil and rice vinegar it was divine. This, I did not order and relished every un-asked for bite.

Last, one single piece of seared albacore. The fish at Kiyono is so fresh it's easy to forget you are eating raw swimmers and that's just the way good sushi/sashimi should be. Thanks Kiyono and see you soon!

~XOXO~

LINDSAY JONES

Vanilla Key Lime Cookies

In 2003 I moved to Hollywood to become, let's be honest, a star. While waitressing, going to auditions, and  pursuing a cliche (but worthwhile if it comes true) dream that thousands of others share (about 10,000 new dreamers arrive in LA each DAY!) ... I was financially challenge aka broke. So, for Christmas, I baked cookies for all my new Jewish friends I'd made in Los Angeles, most of whom worked in the music Industry. Long story short, they loved my cookies and told me I should sell them so I did. First by word of mouth, then online, and finally to 10 different wholesale accounts around LA, including Whole Foods. I called my little homegrown company Cookies Couture and prided myself on using the best, most unique ingredients the cookie world had ever seen. The good news ... people loved them! The bad news ... I was only 22 and began without a business plan or a lot of funding. For a few years I waitressed and ran the company, and was just breaking even. After consulting my heart, my head and my, let's be honest, parents, I decided I had to shutter the cookie biz for the time being, get a "real" job and learn more about the business side of the high end bakery world. 

It's 2010 and I have yet to resurrect Cookies Couture, but I do bake often and this recipe was my best seller! Even if you don't like key lime, you very well may love these cookies. There are also super simple to make. 

For Cookies

1 cup salted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 egg yolk

2 Tablespoons keylime zest
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
2 Tablespoons key lime juice (I like Nellie & Joe's)
1/2 teaspoon salt

2 cups + 2 Tablespoons all-purpose flour

For Icing

2 1/4 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup key lime juice (add more or less as needed to thin icing to a drizzle consistency)

1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1/8 teaspoon salt

2 drops green food coloring (optional)

Using an electric mixer, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes, scraping the bowl down as needed. Add egg yolk, zest, vanilla extract, key lime juice, and salt and mix on medium speed until combined, about 1 minute. Add flour and mix until just combined, scraping down sides as necessary. 

Transfer the dough to large piece of wax paper. Form into ball, wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes or freeze for 10 minutes. 

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Line 2 large baking sheets with parchment paper, Silpat, or tin foil and set aside. 

Use a 1oz. ice cream scoop or small spoon to scoop dough into balls and place on baking sheet 1 1/2 inches apart. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, rotating sheets half way through if your oven does not bake evenly. Remove cookies before they begin to brown. Remove from oven and let cool fully before icing. 

For the key lime icing: In bowl of electric mixer, combine the powdered sugar, key lime juice, vanilla, and salt. Using whisk attachment, whisk until smooth. Scrape down sides as needed and add more water or sugar as needed to create drizzle factor. Add food coloring and whisk until coloring is even. Fill piping bag or zip lock bag with icing and snip off tip to make a tiny hole for drizzling icing back and forth over cookies. 

Once cookies are iced, let dry at least one hour before packaging.

Cornish Game Hens with Citrus Berry BBQ Glaze ~ IF I CAN DREAM ~

This sweet and savory game hen recipe was one of my favorite from cooking for the cast at the If I Can Dream House. It's fairly simple but looks impressive on the plate and is perfect for a small dinner party. I like to give each person their own hen, as I think it makes a more dramatic statement, but you can cut these in half. I served them with wild rice, pecan and cherry stuffing ... a healthier version of "Grandma's Stuffing" that is every but as comforting and satisfying. Make this dinner when you feel like preparing a min-version of Thanksgiving that will please most any palate.

FOR GAME HEN
6 Cornish game hens, defrosted (It's hard to find these fresh, so if you have limited time to cook, buy these a day ahead to defrost by leaving them in your refrigerator. For some helpful info about defrosting meat click here.) 
1/2 cup olive oil
1 Tbsp salt (I use kosher or course sea salt)
1 Tbsp black pepper (I use fresh cracked)
1 Tsp Turmeric (For color and it's healthy)
1 Bottle of your favorite BBQ sauce
3/4 cup orange marmalade
1/2 cup raspberry preserves
Juice from one lime
1 tsp pure vanilla extract (Optional but amazing)
1 tsp cayenne pepper, ground (Optional for those who like it spicy)

Directions

• Preheat oven to 450 degrees F (230 degrees C).  
• Note: I don't wash my poultry or meat before cooking it as many do. Jacque Pepin believed, if the heat that cooks the meat isn't strong enough the kill any bad bacteria, you don't want to eat it anyway, and I agree with him! Washing your poultry or meat in the sink can spread bacteria through cross contamination so, it's best, in my opinion, to leave it untouched until it's ready to be cooked, then throw away packaging immediately.) See more from experts here.
• Prepare large roasting pan (with rack if you have one) by spraying it with oil, set aside.
• In small bowl whisk together olive oil, salt, pepper, and Turmeric.
• Use basting brush to smother hens with olive oil mixture. 
• Tuck wings under bird and place on roasting rack, breast up. (You can tie the legs together with kitchen string if you wish, which helps keep the shape of the bird. View how to truss Poultry here.)
• Roast hens for 25 minutes.
•   While hens are roasting, in medium bowl,whisk together BBQ sauce, marmalade, preserves, lime juice, vanilla, and cayenne.
• Reduce oven temperature to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) and baste hens with BBQ mixture.
• Continue roasting for 30 minutes or until hens are browned and juices run clear when breast is pierced with knife. Baste with BBQ mixture every 10 minutes.
• Remove from oven and let sit 10 minutes before serving. No carving needed!
  
  Wild Rice Stuffing with pecans and cherries recipe coming soon!
  
  ~XOXO~
  Lindsay Jones

Coconut Macadamia Rice with Edamame ~IF I CAN DREAM~

While cooking at the If I Can Dream House, I seemed to be on a coconut kick. The cast, especially Gig and Amanda, loved this rice and it's delicious alone or with fish, chicken, shrimp or tofu prepared with Asian flavors. You can also make this with brown rice if you prefer.  Enjoy!

Serves 5-7

2 cups white rice (I like to use jasmine rice)
2 1/2 cups water
1 1/2 cups light coconut milk
3 teaspoons sea salt or kosher salt (any salt will do)
1 1/2 cup macadamia nuts, roasted and chopped finely
1/4 cup olive oil or grapseed oil and salt to taste
2 cups edamame(soy beans), shelled and frozen
1-2 teaspoons coconut extract (to taste)
1/4 cup butter, salted
2 cups shredded, sweetened coconut

1.Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Line cookie sheet with parchment paper. Set aside.

2. In a medium sized pot or rice cooker add rice, water, coconut milk and salt. If using pot, bring to a boil over medium-high heat, cover and reduce heat to medium. Simmer until all liquid has been absorbed; 25-30 minutes. With rice cooker, just turn on as directed.

2. While rice is cooking, place chopped macadamia nuts in preheated oven on lined cookie sheet and roast for 5-8 minutes, or until light golden brown. Use a spatula to turn them every few minutes for even roasting. Watch them closely so they don't burn. Remove from oven and let cool.

3. In large saute pan, add oil and heat on high for 1-2 minutes. Add edamame and sprinkle with salt. Cook over medium-high heat for 8-10 minutes or until beans begin to brown in parts, appear "grilled" and are al dente in texture. Add macadamia nuts during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking and stir to combine. 

4. When rice is done put in large bowl. Add coconut extract and butter then fold in softly using large spoon until butter is melted. Add edamame mixture and coconut flakes and fold into rice. Serve while hot.


 
 
 

 

Tinsel Town Pizza Pie ~ IF I CAN DREAM ~ WEEK 3

This past Thursday I got a text around noon informing me I'd be cooking for David Cook + band that night! Um, no pressure right? Just add 6 extra people to the mix who happen to be celebrities. I momentarily thought about abandoning my "Tinsel Town Pizza" night idea in lieu of something a bit more impressive and gourmet but then I thought ... pizza is actually perfect! I can make all different kinds, to fit every palates ... couture pizza, custom crafted for each person.

DOUGH
You are more than welcome to make your own dough. I didn't have time to and happen to love Trader Joe's ball o' dough that comes in whole wheat, plain and herb. Use any dough you like and follow the directions on package. For pizzas with many toppings, brush the dough with olive oil and par bake for 5-6 minutes at 400 degrees.

I did make my own pizza sauce which is quick and simple, and oh so mouth-wateringly worth the bit of extra effort.

FOR TOMATO SAUCE
Makes enough for 8-10 twelve inch pizzas + left over sauce for pasta, next day. You can divide by half to make a smaller batch.  Left over sauce can be frozen.

4 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 cup shallot, minced
5 tablespoons olive or grapeseed oil
2 (28ounce) cans marinara sauce(I like TJ'S Brand, you cn also use crushed tomatoes)
1 10.75 oz can tomato puree√
2 6oz cans tomato paste
3 tablespoons agave or brown sugar
2 teaspoons turmeric (optional but very healthy)
1 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped finely (use dried if necessary)
2 tablespoons fresh oregano, chopped finely (use dried if necessary)
2 teaspoons onion powder
1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped finely
1 teaspoon salt
1-3 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (depending on how spicy you are :)

1. In a large saucepan or pot over medium high heat, saute garlic and shallots in oil until tender, about five minutes. 
2. Stir in the remaining ingredients. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 30 minutes or until sauce reaches desired thickness. Sauce may be refrigerated for up to 1 week or frozen for about 1 month.

FOR EASY ALFREDO PESTO SAUCE
1 cup fresh basil leaves
1/2 cup olive oil
1/3 cup fresh grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup pine nuts
2 cloves garlic, crushed
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon white pepper (or black)
1/8 teaspoon nutmeg
16 oz. of your favorite Alfredo Sauce  ss

1. Blend the basil, olive oil, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, garlic, salt, pepper and nutmeg in a blender until smooth. 
2. In medium bowl whisk together Pesto and Alfredo sauce. Use immediately or refrigerate until use. 

TINSEL TOWN PIZZAS

Lindsay's Favorite
Pepperoni, Mushrooms, Black Olives, Red Onions with Tomato Sauce and shredded Pepper Jack Cheese


Bella Italiano
Whole Wheat Dough with Baby Mozzarella Balls (Bocconcini), Halved Cherry Tomatoes, and Prosciutto with Tomato Sauce.  Top with 2 cups arugula once pizza is cooked.

Pizza Bianco
Chicken Sausage, Sliced Almonds, Mushrooms and Shredded Mozzarella with Alfredo Pesto Sauce

Justin Gaston's 1/2 & 1/2
Whole Wheat Dough, half Pest Alfredo Sauce topped with shredded Mozzarella, Chicken Sausage and Mushrooms; Half Tomato Sauce + BBQ Sauce topped with shredded Pepper Jack, Red Onion, Sliced Tomato and Chicken Sausage.

Kara's Creation
Whole Wheat Dough topped with Tomato Sauce, shredded Mozzarella, Pepperoni, Sliced Tomato, Mushrooms, and Prosciutto. Top with 2 handfuls of Arugula once pizza is cooked.


Gig's Viva Veggie
Shredded Pepper Jack, Feta, Marinated Artichokes, Kalamata Olives, Thinly Sliced Bell peppers, Red Onion, halved Cherry Tomatoes, and Egg Plant (cubed) with Tomato Sauce


Lovely Lox
Alfredo Pesto Sauce, Lox, Red Onion, and Capers

Cornish Games Hens with Citrus Berry BBQ Glaze & Wild Rice Stuffing ~ IF I CAN DREAM ~ WEEK 3

I heart Cornish Game Hens and if you are wondering why I'm not making them at the If I Can Dream House ... it's because they take about an hour and a half to two hours to roast so I am pre-roasting them at home. That means you get a sneak peek at what the cast and special guest Lacey Brown from American Idol will be enjoying tonight!

~XOXO~

LINDSAY JONES

 

Cornish Games Hens with Citrus Berry BBQ Glaze

 

Pepperoni, Mushroom and Black Olive Pizza ... My Favorite

(From Thursday If I Can Dream Dinner with David Cook)

 Prosciutto, Mozzarella, Tomato, Arugula Whole Pizza with 

Honey Whole Wheat Crust

(From Thursday If I Can Dream Dinner with David Cook)

Triple Chocolate Therapy Cookies 

&

Money Mint Chocolate Cookies

Saint Patty's Day Meatloaf Cupcakes ~ IF I CAN DREAM ~ WEEK3

Meatloaf Cupcakes? What?! That's not a typo my lovelies ... they are called savory cupcakes, a.k.a. meals on the go :). Chicago loves them and that town knows food. See The Meatloaf Bakery ... oh yeah!

For St. Patty's Day, I strayed from the norm (shocker) and decided to make a hybrid: Shepherds Pie/Cupcake made from turkey meatloaf. It's a healthier version of you Mama's meatloaf so hope you enjoy! Here's the recipe which is easy but always impressive.

FOR MEATLOAF:
3 tablespoons salted butter
2 cups yellow onion, chopped
6 cloves garlic, minced
2 lbs. lean ground turkey
1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
1 cup Italian bread crumbs (or fresh or plain)
 2 large eggs
1/4 c artichoke chutney (or any chutney you like)
1/3 cup ketchup + more for basting (about 1/2 cup)
1/4 tablespoons cup raspberry Chipotle sauce + more for basting (about 1/4 cup)
 4 tblsp Worcestershire sauce
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1. Line 2 muffin tins with papers. Spray with oil. Set aside.
2. Pre-heat oven to 350 degrees. 
3. Melt butter in a medium skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Transfer mixture to a large bowl; cool 5-10 minutes. Add turkey, bread crumbs, egg, artichoke chutney, 1/3 cup ketchup, raspberry Chipotle sauce, Worcestershire, turmeric, cayenne, salt and pepper to onion mixture; mix well using clean hands or a large spoon. 
4. Use a large ice cream scoop (4oz) or a large spoon to drop approximately 1/3 cup of meatloaf mixture into each cupcake paper smoothing out tops. Fill meat to top of cup.
5. In small bowl, whisk together ketchup and raspberry Chipotle sauce. Using a basting brush, brush each cupcake with ketchup/raspberry glaze. Cover and refrigerate. Start potatoes (see below).
6. Once potatoes are boiling, bake meatloaf cupcakes for 35 to 40 minutes or until no longer pink in center and internal temperature of loaf reaches 160 degrees F. Let stand at room temperature 5 minutes before "frosting" with mashed potatoes.    
   

FOR MASHED POTATOES:
2 lb russet potatoes, peeled
1 cup warm buttermilk
1/4 cup whole milk
1 stick salted butter, melted
1/2 cup sour cream
1 1/2  teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 tsp green food coloring if it's St. Patty's Day :)

1. Wash and peel potatoes.
2. Place potatoes in large pot. Fill with cold water until it rises one inch above the potatoes. Add 2 tsp salt.
3. Cover and bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce to a simmer and cook for 30 - 35 minutes or until potatoes are very tender and you can easily insert a fork or knife into the center. Do not over cook and let skin wilt or they will become starchy.
4. Drain potatoes and put back into pot.
5. In small saucepan, heat buttermilk and milk until just warm. Add melted butter to mixture. Pour over potatoes. Add sour cream, salt, garlic powder and food coloring (optional).
6. Using a potato masher, mash potatoes until creamy and of a desires consistency.  Do not over whip or they will become glue like and starchy.
7. Remove meatloaf from oven. Use icing spatula or butter knife to mound potatoes on meatloaf cupcakes.
8. Love yourself for being so creative and enjoy.

Garlic Ginger Shrimp Stir Fry ~ IF I CAN DREAM ~ WEEK 3

by Food Flirt 90210

This is a simple stir fry to make with a little bit of exotic mixed in ... just the way life should be :) Enjoy!

Garlic Ginger Shrimp Stir Fry

Serves 5-7

MARINATE SHRIMP
1.5 - 2 lbs large shrimp, tails removed and de-veined(defrost if frozen)
2 egg whites
2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar or sake
2 tablespoons flour or cornstarch
2 tablespoons soy sauce

FOR SAUCE

1.5 cups vegetable broth
2 tablespoons flour or cornstarch
4 tablespoons white rice vinegar or sake
1.5 teaspoons sesame oil

2 teaspoons salt or soy sauce
2 teaspoons sugar

FOR STIR FRY
1/3 cup + 4 tablespoons peanut or vegetable oi
4 cloves of garlic, minced
1 red or green jalapeno, diced very small (remove seeds)
3 tablespoons ginger, minced
1/2 cup scallions, sliced thin
pinch salt
pinch sugar
6 cups of your favorite stir fry veggies, sliced or chopped
Tonight I'm using:
1 cup carrots, shredded
1 cup edamame, shelled
2 cups shiitake mushrooms, chopped or sliced
1 cup snap pead
1 cup asparagus, chopped into inch long pieces

1.  In small bowl whisk together egg whites, vinegar, flour or cornstarch and soy sauce. Add shrimp to bowl. Cover and marinade for 30 minutes to 1 hour, refrigerated.

2. In bowl mix all ingredients for sauce. Set near wok or frying pan.

3. Heat 1/3 cup oil over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook about 2 minutes. Transfer to plate, pour out oil and wipe down wok.

4. Heat wok over high, 1 to 2 minutes. Add 4 tablespoons oil, garlic, jalapeno, ginger, scallions, salt and sugar. Stir fry for about 1 minute. Reduce heat to medium-high and add veggies beginning with the ones that take longer to cook. Stir-fry until crisp and tender but not mushy! About 5-8 minutes depending on what veggies you use.

5. Add the shrimp and sauce and stir until sauce is thick and veggies and protein are cooked through, about 3 minutes. Garnish with cilantro or crushed peanuts. Serve over brown or white coconut rice.

I will try to post the pot sticker and rice recipes tonight! Thanks for being patient.

~XOXO~

LINDSAY JONES

Tuesday Night Menu at Casa If I Can Dream

TUESDAY NIGHT MENU

by FoodFlirt 90210

Very Veggie Pot Stickers

Garlic Ginger Shrimp Stir Fry with Asparagus, Snap Peas, Edamame (soy beans), and Carrots

Coconut Brown Rice

Sugar Seared Mango with Toasted Coconut

Recipes will be posted this afternoon with any luck :)

Cooking begins at 5pm. See you in the kitchen!

~xoxo~

LINDSAY JONES

Gourmet Grilled Cheese and Cali Tomato Soup ~ IF I CAN DREAM ~ WEEK3

At the end of last week, Amanda and Kara asked for some more homestyle cooking, so this week, I'll be putting a California spin on some down home foods. Grilled Cheese with Tomato Soup is one of my favorite comfort meals and it makes for a fun dinner party. Below I list a variety of ingredients that your guests can choose from to create their own signature grilled cheese sandwich. Add anything you like to the options! Watch how to make these killer gourmet grillers this Monday night, 5pm at the If I Can Dream House! If you are in a time crunch, skip the homemade soup and add 1tsp sugar and 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper to your favorite store bought tomato soup.

MONDAY NIGHT MENU

Gourmet Grilled Cheese and Creamy Cali Tomato Soup

Servings 5-7 

Ingredients :
FOR CREAMY CALI TOMATO SOUP
1/4 cup grapeseed oil (or olive oil)
2 garlic cloves, minced or pressed
1 medium onion, chopped
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
1 bay leaf
2 (28-ounce) cans whole tomatoes in juice
1/2 tablespoon dark brown sugar
1/2 tablespoon molasses
1/4 tsp pure vanilla extract
3 large slices white sandwich bread, crusts removed, torn into 1-inch pieces
2 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoons dark rum   (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste 
¼ cup chopped fresh basil (optional)

1. Heat 2 tablespoons oil in large soup pot over medium-high heat until shimmering.

2. Add garlic, onion, cayenne, and bay leaf. Cook, stirring frequently, about 4 minutes.

3. Stir in tomatoes with juices. Using a potato masher or whisk and mash tomatoes until no large pieces (2 in. max) remain.

4. Stir in sugar, molasses, vanilla, and bread and bring soup to a boil. Reduce heat to medium and cook, stirring occasionally, about 5 minutes or until bread breaks down completely. Remove bay leaf and toss out.

5. Transfer  1/3 of soup to a blender or food processor, add 1 tablespoon grapeseed oil and process until soup is smooth, silky and creamy, 2 to 3 minutes ( When using hot liquid, never fill past 2/3 of the way full and cover blender with dish towel in case hot liquid escapes!)Transfer to a large bowl and repeat with remaining soup and oil. Third batch, add no oil.

5. Rinse out soup pot and pour soup back in. Stir in vegetable broth and rum. Return soup to a boil and season to taste with salt and pepper.

6. Sprinkle each portion with pepper and basil.  Serve gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches.

FOR SANDWICHES
2 medium Red onions, sliced
4 tablespoons grapeseed oil, divided (or olive oil)
1 package Chicken or Turkey Sausage, pre-cooked and sliced into 1/3" rounds
1 large loaf Foccacia Bread
1 loaf whole wheat bread
1 small jar olive tapenade (or any type of spread you like)
1/2 lb Pepper Jack Cheese,
1/2 lb Extra Sharp Cheddar Cheese,
1/2 lb Brie Cheese (use your 3 favorite cheeses that melt)
1-2 Granny Smith Apples, sliced thinly
1/4 c salted butter, melted
salt
pepper

1.  Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

2. Heat frying pan over high heat for 1 minute. Add 2 tablespoons oil and reduce to medium-high heat. Add onions and saute for 5-7 minutes or until translucent. Place in small bowl and set aside.

3. Add 2 tablespoons oil and sausage to same pan and cook over medium-high heat for 6-8 minutes or until browned. Place in small bowl and set aside.

4. Line cookie sheets with tin foil and spray with oil.

5. Slice Foccacia bread into 4 inch wide slices, then slice those in two for sandwiches.

6. Layer sandwiches as you like with spread, cheese, onions, sausage, and apples.

7. Brush each sandwich lightly with butter, sprinkle with salt and pepper place on lined cookie sheet.

8. Bake in oven for 5-10 minutes or until cheese is melted. Slice in half on the diagonal and serve with a piping hot bowl of Creamy Cali Tomato Soup. It's like sneaking back to your child hood in a sophisticated way :) Dip away!

~xoxo~

LINDSAY JONES

NEW FOOD FLIRT VIDEO + COOKIE GIVEAWAY!

As promised, here is a new Food Flirt 90210 Video where I re-create two of Hollywood's favorite dishes, from two of their favorite restaurants. Watch me put my Food Flirt twist on The Ivy's Grilled Chopped Vegetable Salad and Koi's Crispy Rice Topped with Spicy Tuna.

Lindsay Jones :: Food Flirt 90210 from Lindsay Jones on Vimeo.

FOOD FLIRT COOKIE GIVEAWAY: Retweet or share this link http://bit.ly/foodflirtvideo on twitter (@foodflirt90210) and be entered for the chance to win one dozen cookies from Food Flirt 90210! I'll announced the winner on Monday March 21 from the If I Can Dream Kitchen!

FUN FACT: I used to own a cookie company, "Cookies Couture" so I know what's up in the world of addicting cookies :)

Good luck!
~xoxo~

LINDSAY JONES

Giglianne's Pasta Puttanesca ~ IF I CAN DREAM ~ WEEK 2

Well, I've been cooking for 5-7 people at the If I Can Dream House for 2 weeks now. Time to give a serious nod to our Grandmother's who often had 5+ kids (mine had 7) and cooked for them every single night, often on a tight budget. It's a lot of work! Kudos also to Mom's and Dad's everywhere who cook for their families each night. While I was slightly, I mean completely exhausted by last night, it's been well worth it!

In case you don't know, my BIG DREAM is to have my own cooking show that inspires people to explore new flavors and become creative and confident in the kitchen. Being a chef on If I Can Dream is obviously a killer opportunity for me and I am incredibly grateful. Earlier in the week, I asked the cast if they had any requests and Giglianne (Gig) wanted to make Pasta Puttanesca. This is a dish from Southern Italy that is simple and inexpensive to make but delicious with olives, garlic, capers, tomato sauce, and anchovies. I left those out to make it vegetarian for Gig. I also used whole wheat penne pasta to kick up the nutritional value and added some cumin and turmeric. And, since there are two strapping young men at the iicd house, I also made some scrumptious turkey meatballs to go on top.  Alriiiiiiight already, enough babble and on to the recipe!

~XOXO~

LINDSAY JONES

Gig's Pasta Puttanesca

Ingredients
1 box dried, whole wheat spaghetti or fettuccine 
2 tablespoons salt
1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil + 3 tablespoons for pasta water
1 large head garlic, peeled and minced
1/2 teaspoon hot red-pepper flakes
1 (28-oz) can whole tomatoes in juice, drained and chopped
1 (28-oz) can or jar of your favorite Marinara sauce
2 tablespoons brine from olives
1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives, chopped
1/3 cup capers, drained
1 teaspoon turmeric (optional)
1/2 teaspoon cumin (optional)
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
2 teaspoon white sugar or agave
1 cup fresh basil, finely chopped
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese,  freshly grated

1. Fill large pot 3/4 full with cold water and bring to a boil over high heat. Add 2 Tbsp salt and 3 Tbsp oil to water. Add pasta and cook until al dente, about 20-25 minutes for whole wheat spaghetti.  (Al dente refers to the texture of cooked pasta in Italian cooking. It literally means "to the tooth". When the pasta is cooked al dente, there should be a slight resistance in the center when the pasta is chewed. If you prefer softer pasta, cook a few minutes longer.)

2. While pasta boils, add 1/2 cup olive oil to heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, stirring occasionally, for about 3 minutes.

3. Add chopped tomatoes and marinara sauce to garlic oil mixture along with olive brine, olives, capers, balsamic vinegar, turmeric, cumin, and sugar, stirring occasionally until pasta is done. 

4. Drain pasta and return to pot. Add sauce to pasta and simmer on medium-low heat, twirling pasta with tongs, for about 2 minutes. Plate immediately and sprinkle with basil and Parmesan. Take a bite and RELISH THE MOMENT:)

NOTES:

• Use finely diced anchovies in this dish if you wish! Add them when you add the tomatoes and marinara sauce.
• You can use any type of pasta you want.
• If you dislike any of these ingredients, just leave them out ... except the pasta and tomato sauce.
• Serve with turkey meatballs if you want more protein.
• Don't be scared to improvise if you are missing an ingredient! Get creative ... you know what flavors you like.

Food Flirt Fish Tacos ~ IF I CAN DREAM ~ WEEK 2

Thanks to my twitter pals who joined me at the If I Can Dream House for Thursday Taco Night! While I was calling these Baja Style Tacos I've decided to re-name this version as the fish is not battered and fried (which your mouth loves but your butt doesn't. Hehe.) I brought 2 pinatas up to the house to make our taco night a little more festive but I had to leave before they cast began smacking card board objects for candy. Well, maybe they forgot about them and I can witness the glorious event tomorrow night. Ok, on to the taco recipe!

~xoxo~

LINDSAY JONES

Photo Courtesy of @combattx who cooked with us tonight from his house!

(My camera went dead this evening)

FOOD FLIRT FISH TACOS

Servings: 5
Preparation Time: 1 hour(+ marinade time)

FOR MARINADE
3 pounds tilapia, catfish, or snapper
1/2 Cup corn or canola oil
4 tablespoons red wine vinegar
4 teaspoons lemon juice
3 tablespoons agave, honey or sugar
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons cumin
1/2 teaspoon all spice (optional)
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
2 teaspoons hot sauce
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1/2 cup mexican beer (or any beer)

FOR DRESSING
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup sour cream
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
2 teaspoons agave or honey
1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or to taste)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

FOR CABBAGE MIX
1 head purple cabbage, washed and sliced thin
1/2 cup onion (any color), diced
1/4 cup cilantro leaves, chopped fine
1 tablespoon fresh garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
pepper to taste

FOR TORTILLAS:
12-15 white corn tortillas, as authentic as possible. Buy the cheap kind at the store that  smell the most like corn :)
oil

OTHER ITEMS NEEDED
tin foil
large zip-lock bag
whisk

1.    FISH PREP: Use kitchen scissors to cut fish into 1 inch wide strips length wise, then cut strips into 1/2 inch pieces. Place in large zip-lock bag. Set aside and wash hands since they're slimy at this point :)

2.    FOR MARINADE: In medium size bowl, whisk together all ingredients for marinade beginning with oil and ending with beer. Pour into zip-lock, zip bag, then shake gentle to coat fish and place in refrigerator for 4-6 hours. The longer the better.

3.    Preheat oven to 200 degrees.

4.    FOR FISH: Remove from marinade and pour into colander to drain. Add 2 tablespoons oil (olive or canola or corn) to large frying pan and heat on high for 1-2 minutes. Add fish and cook for 2-3 minutes on high heat. Reduce to medium heat and continue to cook 8-12 minutes or until fish flakes apart with fork. Cooking time may vary depending on fish type and stove top.

5.    FOR DRESSING: In small bowl, whisk together all ingredients listed above for dressing. Set aside and refrigerate if not using immediately.

6.    FOR CABBAGE MIX: In large bowl, combine cabbage, onion, cilantro, garlic, lime juice, salt and pepper. Prior to serving, pour dressing over cabbage mixture and toss with tongs or the cleanest of hands.

7.    FOR TORTILLAS: Cut tin foil into rectangles, 9-12 inches in length depending on the size of your tortillas. Stack 2-3 tortillas in center of each piece of foil and brush with thin layer of oil to keep them from sticking together. Wrap foil around tortillas to form small packages then place in preheated oven for 10 minutes before serving.

8.    OPTIONAL GARNISHES: Lime wedges, minced red or green jalapeno.

Serving Ideas: Serve with, homemade lime garlic guacamole, baked whole wheat tortilla chips,  Mexican style rice and black beans with green chilies.

Sweet Chili Pomegranate Tilapia ~ IF I CAN DREAM ~ WEEK 2

It's Wednesday. Hump day. For those of you who may not know, I have another job besides being the private chef for the If I Can Dream Team. I work for POM Wonderful managing their online community and assisting them in recipe based content. Let it be known I truly do LOVE pomegranates. Anyway, after leaving the office today, I felt a little low low on energy so I wanted to cook something simple, and fast that would still live up to my FoodFlirt standards: amazing flavors, uniquely paired, fresh, healthy, and crave-able. How'd the cast like it? Ben told me everything so far has been good, but that each night seems to get better. "I think you're getting better and better." Aw, thanks Ben :)

~ xoxo~
LINDSAY JONES


Sweet Chili Pomegranate Tilapia

Servings: 5

FOR MARINADE:
1 cup 100% pomegranate juice
1 cup orange juice
1 cup white wine
1/4 cup pineapple vodka or juice (optional)
1/4 cup molasses
3 tablespoons soy sauce
6 pieces Tilapia (about 1.5 pounds) (can sub Catfish, Dover sole, or Snapper), fillets

FOR POMEGRANATE REDUCTION:
2 cups 100% pomegranate juice
3 tablespoons molasses or honey
1/4 cup shallots, diced

FOR TILAPIA:
sea salt
pepper (fresh ground if you have it)
3 tablespoons butter, salted AA, melted
1/2 cup sweet chili sauce

FOR MARINADE: In large bowl whisk together first six ingredients. Place Tilapia in bowl making sure all pieces are covered with marinade. Cover and place in refrigerator for 2-3 hours.

2.    Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Line baking dish or cookie sheet with tinfoil and spray with oil.

3.    FOR POMEGRANATE REDUCTION: To medium sized sauce  pan add pomegranate juice, molasses, and shallots and bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring periodically. Continue to simmer for 30-40 minutes or until liquid reduces by half and becomes syrup-like. Be sure to stir sauce every few minutes and keep heat at medium-high to avoid burning.

4.    FOR TILAPIA: Remove fish from marinade and place in one layer on lined baking dish. Discard liquid. Salt and pepper both sides of fillets to taste. Drizzle one side with  melted butter. Use a basting brush to brush sweet chili sauce generously over both sides of fillets. You can also use clean hands for this ... give the Tilapia a lil' rub down :) About 15 minutes before your pomegranate reduction is done, place fish in preheated 375 degree oven on center rack to bake for 10-14 minutes depending on the thickness of your fish. When done, fish should flake apart easily with a fork. Plate fish and drizzle approx. 1 tablespoon pomegranate reduction over each fillet. Serve immediately and relish the moment.

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Start to Finish: 2 hours 45 minutes

Serving Ideas: Serve with oven roasted lemon shallot asparagus and roasted new potatoes with onion.

Panko Crumb Lemon Pepper Catfish ~ IF I CAN DREAM ~ WEEK 2

Tonight I decided to make a Southern inspired meal with a Food Flirt twist. That means it's lighter, healthier and accompanied by an awesome grain called quinoa instead of buttery grits or mashed potatoes. (Pictures coming soon.)

Panko Crumb Lemon Pepper Catfish

Serves 4-6

FOR MARINADE
1 c white wine
1/3 c lemon juice
1/4 c olive oil
4 tbsp honey mustard (or any mustard)
3 tbsp honey
2 tsp salt
1 tsp pepper
6 catfish fillets - deboned

FOR CRUMB CRUST
1 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
3/4 cup corn meal
2 tsp salt
2 tsp pepper
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (or more to taste)

FOR EGG WASH
2 egg whites
2 tbsp water

In large bowl or zip lock bag, mix together the first seven ingredients beginning with white wine and ending with pepper. Add fish to the marinade and refrigerate for 4-8 hours (the longer the better). If using a bowl, cover with tinfoil or plastic wrap.

Upon removing fish from refrigerator, preheat oven to 450 degrees F.

In shallow pan mix together ingredients for crumb crust beginning with panko bread crumbs. Use clean, dry hands or whisk to make sure it is thoroughly blended. Set aside.

Line cookie sheet with tinfoil and spray with oil. Remove fish from marinade letting liquid drip off and then discard marinade. Lay fish in single layer on foil lined sheet. In small bowl, whisk together egg whites and water until slightly foamy. Coat each piece of catfish with a thin layer of egg white wash using basting brush.

Dredge fish in crumb mixture on both sides, pressing down firmly to ensure crumbs stick in a thick layer. Return to cookie sheet and place fish in preheated 450 degree oven on middle rack for 12-16 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fillets.

Remove from oven once fish flakes apart easily with fork and crumb crust on lightly golden. Serve immediately, otherwise you'll need to microwave it like the cast of If I Can Dream had to ;) BTW, the amazing miso dressing I used in the salad tonight is Galeos. TO DIE FOR and SO freakin' healthy.

Ok, time for bed so I can wake up early and make a caffeine stop before hitting the If I Can Dream House to cook up some breakfast. Will post Pan Fried Okra recipe tomorrow!!

~xoxo~

LINDSAY JONES

~Food Flirt~

L.A. Enchilasagna ~ IF I CAN DREAM ~ WEEK 1

Here is my first recipe from the dinners I made at the If I Can Dream House Last Week. I will post the rest of the recipes soon :) Check back often.

This dish is perfect for Hollywood Stars because it's healthy but tastes rich and satisfying. It's like a hybrid of lasagna and enchiladas. Yum! Here we go ...

Serves 6-8 people or 1-2 people for a week!
Start to finish time: 1:15 with five minutes used to crack a bottle of vino and pour a glass ;)

Ingredients

salt (fresh ground sea salt is best)
pepper (fresh ground is best)
1 large egg plant - sliced into 1/3" thick rounds
olive oil
1 sweet potato - peeled and sliced into 1/3" thick rounds
2 medium red or yellow onions - chopped
2 T red wine
1-2 jalapenos - seeded and diced
1 small head broccoli - roughly chopped
1 T Turmeric (optional)
6 corn tortillas - sliced into inch wide strips
1 large jar or 2 1/2 cups marinara sauce
6 slices Colby Jack cheese (you can substitute your favorite cheese but I recommend choosing one with a bit stronger flavor than mozzarella)
Sprinkle with Gorgonzola five minutes before removing from oven if desired.

FYI - you can add any other veggies you want to ... just slice them thin enough or dice them small enough so they all cook at the same time. Spinach, mushrooms, squash, would all be great!

Directions:

- Preheat oven to 400

- Spray a 9X13 in baking pan (I like glass) with cooking spray or line it with tin foil and spray that for easy cleanup.

- Dissolve 1T salt into medium bowl of cold water and add eggplant slices for 20minutes; drain and set aside.

- In large oiled frying pan over medium-high heat, saute the onions and red wine; about 3-5 minutes; set aside.

- Place eggplant slices on cookie sheet, brush both sides with olive oil, salt and pepper to taste. Roast for 10 minutes in preheated oven at 400 degrees. Set aside.

- While eggplant roasts, in large frying pan saute jalapenos and broccoli with 1T olive oil for 5-7 minutes over medium heat. Salt and pepper to taste; set aside.

- Remove eggplant from oven.

- Line bottom of baking dish with sweet potato slices. Layer with broccoli jalapeno mixture. Then layer onions on top of that.


- Layer eggplant slices next and sprinkle those with the Turmeric.

- Layer 1/2 of the tortilla strips across the eggplant as shown.

- Use 1/2 of the marinara sauce and spread it evenly over tortilla strips.

- Layer with the remaining tortilla strips then place rounds of Gouda over top evenly to cover entire pan. If using shredded cheese, sprinkle evenly over top.

- Spread last of the marinara over the cheese.

- Reduce oven to 375 and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese starts to turn golden brown.

- Remove from oven and sprinkle Gorgonzola over top. Chopped, roasted nuts can be added in place of or in addition to the Gorgonzola. Let cool for 10 minutes before cutting and blissing out on the LA Veggie Bake. BTW, even meat lover men seem to enjoy this recipe. Also a good way to get kids to eat their vegetables.


"No matter what Google says ... the way to a man's heart is still through his stomach."

~xoxo~

LINDSAY JONES

Flirting in the Valley

Ahemmm ... that's me clearing my throat before I write a post that three months ago, this Food Flirt from 90210 could have NEVER have imagined writing. I am in LOVE ... with the food scene in the valley, as in the 818, San Fernando Valley straight out of Clueless. Now how did a 90210 girl ever find herself North of Sunset, let alone over the hill on Ventura Blvd.? Don't be nosy! I'll tell you another time.

The point is, I did find myself there, and when I find myself almost anywhere, I eat. So, after a few VERY skeptical visits and three truly memorable meals, I began to wonder, "Does the city really have the best food in LA?" Now mind you, I'm not talking about fancy schmancy, five star restaurant food, nor do I mean food truck fare. The valley has amazing ethnic restaurants of all sorts. Let's begin this gastro-adventure in pseudo Israel, shall we?

Israeli cuisine isn't the type of food that's easy to flirt with ... it kind of makes you want to commit. That almost never happens to me. Two words people: Aroma Cafe. Despite my shiksa nature, I think I'm well on my way to becoming a regular at this place. The coffee is smooth, they know how to make micro foam and there are pastries galore. Normally, food snobs such as moi shun eateries that serve BLD (breakfast, lunch, dinner), but Aroma has surpassed all stereotypes and I will happily dine with them for any meal of the day. The service isn't top notch, but the food is so good, you hardly notice. Their Seabass Skewers are the best fish dish I've had to date in LA (I am sorry, I know this fishy is endangered, but it was already dead so I decided to go for it.) Early in the morning or late at night, you'll always get craveable, fresh food, seasoned with spices passed down by generations. Sandwiches, salads, burekas and pizza ... yep they have that too. Baked in a hot clay oven, it's savory and satisfying, especially when you're hungover from two too many glasses of wine from the night before at Vino, right across the street ... but that's another post :)

~XOXO~ from the valley, where the food is authentic and the experiences unexpectedly pleasurable. ( And don't worry, I didn't really move there, geez!)

Food Flirt