Dairy Freed

Chocolate and Lemon Madeleines

I would love to say I first learned of madeleines on a leisurely afternoon reading Marcel Proust, infamous for writing about his love affair with them.  The truth is I have the Paris subway to thank. 

On an unbelievably cold December day, three of us set out in an attempt to see as much of "the city of lights" as possible. The hitch? We only had 36 hours  to do it. 

Ginger Apricot Chicken Breasts

Prepared in under 30 minutes, this dish is easy to prepare, easy on the budget and very easy on your waistline.  It’s also easy to customize to your particular taste. Substitute orange marmalade for the apricot preserves, balsamic or apple cider vinegar for the red wine vinegar, minced garlic for the ginger; let your creativity flow.

Spicy Chipotle Steaks

If you haven't tried chipotle peppers this is a great dish to get you acquainted with them.  Chipotles are smoked jalapeno peppers and are most commonly found canned in a spicy tomato sauce. They can be pretty spicy so start out with half of one first.  To help reduce the heat a bit scrape out all the seeds. 

Lacquered Turkey Rice Bowl

Turkey is like Rodney Dangerfield; much loved but it gets no respect.  It's the champion of the bland and neutral.    Even when it gets its day to shine the poor bird has to compete with my aunt's green bean casserole, and let me tell you, that's a no win situation. (And no I'm not going to say which aunt either.)

Well I'm tired of turkey getting a bum wrap.  It's time it took centerstage and this grilled recipe is going to thrust it out of the wings whether it likes it or not. 

Strawberry-Mango Salsa with Cinnamon Crisps

News flash...salsa isn't just for tomatoes and peppers. 

After dinner, try putting a big bowl of Strawberry-Mango Salsa out with some of these simple, easy and virtually fat-free cinnamon crackers. 

Asparagus and Shiitake Mushroom Noodle Bowl

No matter what the cuisine, noodle soups are always comforting.  Inspired by a dish I always get at a little Thai restaurant around the corner from my office, this is great served as a soup or reduce the broth by half and serve as a pasta dish.  Try adding some grilled chicken, pork or tofu for a more robust meal.