 Roasted Zucchini Bowtie Pasta Bake- AC Art Of Food 😋*Roasted Zucchini Bowtie Pasta*😋⠀ - 3 zucchini, sliced in planks⠀ - 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced - 1 box bowtie pasta, prepared per pkg instructions (reserve 1 cup of the salted pasta water) - 4 tbsps Abstract Spice - 1 tbsp garlic powder⠀ - 1 jar of your fav marinara sauce - 8 oz pkg mozzarella, cubed - 8 oz. pkg fresh mozzarella(buffalo), tear in pieces - 1/4 cup parmesan cheese - 2 tbsp olive oil ~ Preheat oven to broil. On a greased sheet pan, add zucchini and onions. Add olive oil, garlic powder, and 2 of the 4 tbsps of Abstract Spice and toss until evenly coated. Broil veggies for approx 20 minutes until browning. While veggies are cooking, in a large casserole dish stir together noodles, pasta water, tomato sauce, and remaining 2 tbsps of Abstract Spice. Mix in cubed mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Once veggies are done, lower temp to bake at 400 and mix in veggies to the casserole. Top casserole with fresh mozzarella pieces. Bake in oven for approx 20-25 minutes until tips of pasta and cheese begin to brown. Remove from oven, let cool for about 10 minutes, and enjoy! ⠀ **Order Abstract Spice Today**⠀ https://buff.ly/2oC0Uc2⠀ ⠀ ⠀ ~Great Eats & Healthy Living!
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 Chia seeds may be tiny, but they pack a powerful punch to your health! Full of protein, fiber, vitamins and minerals, these tiny seeds are an essential part of a healthy lifestyle! Try this deliciously super healthy, creamy, cool pudding for breakfast or a healthy treat! Mix in cocoa powder for a power-packed chocolatey antioxidant dessert! But to be clear, nothing makes this pudding sing like topping it with ACAOF's Maple Nut Granola!  cha-cha-cha-Chia pudding recipeIngredients:
The Process:
 Although the nightmare that is Covid has come and uprooted lives worldwide, the opportunity to relearn ourselves, families, and homelife have been a blessing to some. And let's face it, more of a challenge for others. Being home more than away for a change is proving to be daunting to some, especially with everyone under one roof working and schooling from home. Fortunately AC Art Of Food has compiled a handy resource, developed to help those at a loss for easy and delicious meal ideas and treats to manage the in-home-cafeteria-lady position some of us have now been selected for, lol! STOP the spread of COVID-19: *Stay home when you can. *Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds....OFTEN! *Clean all items and people that enter your home from outside. *Eat healthy to build and boost your immune system now....and ALWAYS! *Drink water and....PLENTY OF IT! *Rest...GET SOME SLEEP! click here for your |
 2 tbsp olive oil |  1/2 onion, sliced thin |  2 pints sliced mushrooms |  1/2 tsp sea salt & pepper |
Stir in and cover lowering heat to Medium to simmer:
 1 jar marinara sauce |  2 tbsp Abstract Spice |  1/2 cup water |  1 package Aldi's meat-less meatballs |
Slice loaf in half and sprinkle 1/2 of the mozzarella on one half:
 1 loaf French loaf bread, halved |  16 oz. low-fat mozzarella, shredded |
Next:
- Add vegan meatball sauce to cheese half of sub.
- Coat the opposite side of the loaf with just sauce.
- Sprinkle remaining cheese on top of meatball side and close.
- Place in the oven on a sheet pan for approximately 10 minutes until cheese is melted.
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- Garnish with dried parsley and slice in sections for easy grabbing!
enjoy!
ACAOF's Meal of the Week: Quick & HealthFUL Meatball Sub- AC Art Of Food
What did you have for dinner this week?
*
let me know in the comments below and you may be next week's feature!
Each week AC Art Of Food is sharing with you different healthFUL meal ideas that you can create and try out, and even share with friends and family!
This week's meal:
*Corn, Shrimp & Kale Bisque*
ACAOF Meal of the Week: Corn, Shrimp & Kale Bisque- AC Art Of Food
I completely intended for this dish to be a chowder, but with the sweltering Georgia heat, I decided to thin it out a bit, lol!
The base of the bisque is completely vegan and the shrimp can easily be replaced with a plant based alternative protein to overhaul this as a complete vegan transformation.
The flavor of the below combined ingredients blend together perfectly with outstanding flavor and texture. A satisfying hearty soup, yet not too heavy to make you feel weighed down. The freshness of the raw kale, and pops of sweetness from the fresh corn sing a melody of deliciousness to any palate.
Allowing the shrimp to cook in the broth lends an authentic ease of preparation not negating from the true tenderness and full sea flavor that meld together perfectly in this bath of smooth scrumptious notes that dance on your tongue!
But hey, don't take my word for it- try it for yourself!
The base of the bisque is completely vegan and the shrimp can easily be replaced with a plant based alternative protein to overhaul this as a complete vegan transformation.
The flavor of the below combined ingredients blend together perfectly with outstanding flavor and texture. A satisfying hearty soup, yet not too heavy to make you feel weighed down. The freshness of the raw kale, and pops of sweetness from the fresh corn sing a melody of deliciousness to any palate.
Allowing the shrimp to cook in the broth lends an authentic ease of preparation not negating from the true tenderness and full sea flavor that meld together perfectly in this bath of smooth scrumptious notes that dance on your tongue!
But hey, don't take my word for it- try it for yourself!
corn, shrimp & kale bisque
In a Dutch Oven or Pot on Med/High heat:
 2 tbsp oil (olive, avocado, or grapeseed) |  2 tbsp vegan butter |
Sauté together for 4 minutes:
 Chopped onion  Chopped garlic cloves |  Chopped celery  2 tsp sea salt & 1 tsp fresh cracked pepper |
Sprinkle on sauté mixture to thicken and flavor:
 2 tbsp flour |  1/2 tsp nutmeg |
Gradually pour in:
 3 cups water |  1 cup almond milk (80-90 calorie) |
Season liquid base with:
2 tbsp Abstract Spice
Add in, stir, and cover for 4 minutes:
 4 cups chopped kale |  2 cups corn kernels |  2 lbs medium raw, deveined, peeled shrimp |
Stir in and leave uncovered for 10 minutes on Med/Low heat:
1/2 cup dry sherry (chardonnay will work as a sub)
Garnish with:
 Chopped scallion greens |  Additional shrimp, roasted |
enjoy!
ACAOF Meal of the Week: Corn, Shrimp & Kale Bisque- AC Art Of Food
What did you have for dinner this week?
*
let me know in the comments below and
you may be
next week's feature!
Amazingly delicious and SUPER simple Grilled Potatoes- AC Art Of Food
Hubby decided to override my planned Sunday dinner of Salisbury steak and onions, mashed potatoes, and green beans for an impromptu mini cookout in the backyard. I wasn't too upset realizing that this meant I didn't have to do much work for dinner 😆.
But at the last minute when it was last call for the grill, I needed another side and thought how great a baked potato would be!
So I scrubbed some 'taters and threw them on the ol' barbie. That's when it crossed my mind of how tempting it would be to load these puppies up with butter, sour cream, and cheese even! Unfortunately, that's not exactly the route I've been committed to lately.
Then I remembered I'm not locked down to having a traditional baked potato, I'm AC of AC Art of Food! Let me do it with a healthy twist! And that I did!
Grabbing inspiration from my God Mom's recipe for her delicious Lemon & Parsley New Potatoes, I decided to create these beauties. Simple, light, and only around 6 ingredients. And remember, you can always make it your own!
After the grill and ready to be dressed- AC Art Of Food
Not your Typical Grilled Potato
recipe
ingredients:
 5 medium sized scrubbed baking potatoes |  1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil |
 1 tsp smoked paprika |  Juice from 1/2 a lemon |
 1/2 cup grated Gruyere cheese |  Favorite herbs like parsley, dill, and/or basil- chopped |
 Sea salt to taste |
the process:
- Place potatoes on top grill rack and cook for approximately 1 hour, or until center in tender and skin is crisped.
- With a towel securing the cooked potato and protecting hands from the heat, slice each potato forming 1/2 to 1 inch thick discs- it's OK if potato crumbles during slicing.
- Once all sliced potato discs are laying flat on your platter, drizzle with the extra virgin olive oil.
- Drizzle on lemon juice.
- Sprinkle on cheese, paprika, and parsley.
- Finish with pink salt to taste
- Place back on the grill rack until cheese is melted and serve.
Enjoy!
What other toppings would you try to make this recipe your own?
Let me know in the comments below and I'll give it a try!
It's summertime and the peaches are ripe!
And what better way to show appreciation for nature's goodness and merciful stone-fruit than with my succulent Georgia Peach Slow Cooker Turkey Thighs recipe!
🍑'Georgia' because I had a super ripe on on hand and threw a peach in for flavor!😜
This recipe guarantees a delicious and savory, mouth-watering-fall-off-the-bone experience you'll want to try again, and again, and AGAIN!
What makes this even better is that preparing this and other meals in the slow cooker doesn't emit much heat which makes it perfect for summer cooking!
And what better way to show appreciation for nature's goodness and merciful stone-fruit than with my succulent Georgia Peach Slow Cooker Turkey Thighs recipe!
🍑'Georgia' because I had a super ripe on on hand and threw a peach in for flavor!😜
This recipe guarantees a delicious and savory, mouth-watering-fall-off-the-bone experience you'll want to try again, and again, and AGAIN!
What makes this even better is that preparing this and other meals in the slow cooker doesn't emit much heat which makes it perfect for summer cooking!
georgia peach slow cooker turkey thighs
ingredients:
 6 turkey thighs   1 peach, halved and pitted |  1 chopped carrot  1/2 onion, cut up  3 cloves of garlic |  1/4 cup Abstract Spice  1/8 cup olive oil  4 cups water |
preparation:
Throw it all in the slow cooker on high for 6 hours.
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Enjoy!
What deliciousness do you like to put in your slow cooker?
Let me know in the comments below for a chance to have your recipe featured on
ac art of food's recipe page!
Each week AC Art Of Food presents, 'A Culinary Health Bite'- a short tasty clip highlighting a healthFUL food and/or helpful tip, revealing the delicious benefits and and its preparation!
This week, check out the benefits of my all-natural produce wash that's perfect when your pocket won't allow organic!
Plus, I'll show you my easy step-by-step method to make your own ProWash!
But you have to watch to find out how!
This week, check out the benefits of my all-natural produce wash that's perfect when your pocket won't allow organic!
Plus, I'll show you my easy step-by-step method to make your own ProWash!
But you have to watch to find out how!
WHAT HEALTHFUL 'BITE' WOULD YOU LIKE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT?
LET ME KNOW IN THE COMMENTS BELOW AND HAVE YOURS FEATURED!
Easy Roasted Butternut Squash & Kale-Cabbage Shred, AC Art Of Food
I just posted a super quick and delicious tuna steak recipe that partners PERFECT with this equally quick Easy Roasted Butternut Squash & Kale-Cabbage Shred dish.
Once again I'm grabbing that handy bag of fresh pre-packaged shredded veggies! One of my favorite stores, Aldi's, has a convenient and delicious pre-packaged shredded kale salad that can be found in their refrigerated produce section. If you can't find this exact salad package, any shredded pre-packaged vegetables will work, such as cabbage slaw, broccoli slaw, etc.
*CulinaryHealthTIP: Tender leaves such as spinach and arugula are not good subs being that their textures won't hold up well under the high roasted temperature. Kale, Swiss Chard, and Collards are a more preferred sub.
Once again I'm grabbing that handy bag of fresh pre-packaged shredded veggies! One of my favorite stores, Aldi's, has a convenient and delicious pre-packaged shredded kale salad that can be found in their refrigerated produce section. If you can't find this exact salad package, any shredded pre-packaged vegetables will work, such as cabbage slaw, broccoli slaw, etc.
*CulinaryHealthTIP: Tender leaves such as spinach and arugula are not good subs being that their textures won't hold up well under the high roasted temperature. Kale, Swiss Chard, and Collards are a more preferred sub.
what you need:
 1 Butternut Squash, peeled and cubed  Aldi's 'Sweet Kale Chopped Salad Kit', shredded salad only- omit the included 'kit' packaged items |  4 tbsp Olive Oil  1 tbsp Abstract Spice (purchase here: www.acartoffood.com) |  Cooking Spray, pictured is Aldi's brand  Squeeze of lime, *optional* |
the steps:
 Fresh veggies for roasting, up close and personal! -AC Art Of Food |  Prepared and oven ready super veggies! -AC Art Of Food |
- Pre-heat oven to 450.
- Spray a large sheet pan with non-stick cooking spray, set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine cubed squash and salad ONLY portion of salad kit.
- Thoroughly mix in oil and seasoning.
- Spread mixture evenly onto sheet pan.
- Roast in oven for approximately 25 minutes, until squash is fork tender.
- Remove from oven and finish with a squeeze of lime, if so desired.
Enjoy with my super quick 10 Minute Sesame Seared Tuna w/ Charred Lime & Coconut Butter recipe!
~Your Culinary Health Resource
try this recipe and let me know in the comments below!
The key to this buttery-tender tuna steak in my 10 Minute Sesame Seared Tuna w/ Charred Lime Coconut Butter, is to make sure the skillet is super hot- I mean smoking!
When I turn the heat up on the stove, I immediately switch on the exhaust fan overhead in addition to opening the kitchen windows, lol! However, because the searing process is under 2 minutes for each side per tuna steak, the noise from the fan won't disturb your dinner you'll be devouring in 10 minutes or less!
When I turn the heat up on the stove, I immediately switch on the exhaust fan overhead in addition to opening the kitchen windows, lol! However, because the searing process is under 2 minutes for each side per tuna steak, the noise from the fan won't disturb your dinner you'll be devouring in 10 minutes or less!
What you need:
 4 Raw Tuna Steaks, pat dry.  2 Green Onions, chopped (green tops only)  2 Limes, juiced  3 tbsp Coconut Butter (Coconut Oil will suffice). I use the Aldi's brand....of course :) |  2 tsp Sesame Oil  3 tbsp Olive Oil  Sea Salt & Pepper  Sesame Seeds (white and/or black) |
The steps:
- Place pan (preferably cast iron) on stove, spray with non stick spray and crank heat up to high.
- In a small bowl, mix together the olive and sesame oils.
- Ensuring steaks are pat dry as possible, rub each all over with olive+sesame oil.
- Season both sides with sea salt & pepper (approximately a tsp of each combined on both sides)
- Carefully place steaks in smoking hot pan and let sear for approximately 1.5 minutes before flipping for the same amount of time on the opposite side. Be sure the tuna has a line of pink visible on the outside middle of your steaks. Repeat this step for each steak.
Ensure that pink line in the middle for buttery tenderness in every bite!
6. Once done, transfer each steak to a serving platter/dish and sprinkle on sesame seeds and green onions.
7. Reducing heat to low-med, stir in lime juice AND limes, inadvertently lifting the cooked bits from the pan which will become part of your butter, yummy! (This process of deglazing also helps in the cleaning process of the pan when dinner is done- #Winning!)
7. Reducing heat to low-med, stir in lime juice AND limes, inadvertently lifting the cooked bits from the pan which will become part of your butter, yummy! (This process of deglazing also helps in the cleaning process of the pan when dinner is done- #Winning!)
Whisking in lime juice, limes, and coconut butter.
8. Melt in coconut butter making sure it combines with lime juice and completely. Remove heat.
9. Pour the warm citrus butter over plated steaks adding more sesame seeds and green onions if so desired.
Enjoy with a delicious salad, roasted veggies, or AC Art Of Food's Easy Roasted Butternut Squash & Kale Cabbage Shred (pictured with tuna steaks)
~From Your Culinary Health Resource!
9. Pour the warm citrus butter over plated steaks adding more sesame seeds and green onions if so desired.
Enjoy with a delicious salad, roasted veggies, or AC Art Of Food's Easy Roasted Butternut Squash & Kale Cabbage Shred (pictured with tuna steaks)
~From Your Culinary Health Resource!
10 Minute Sesame Seared Tuna w/ Charred Lime & Coconut Butter served with Roasted Butternut Squash & Kale-Cabbage Shred, AC Art Of Food
What side dishes do you serve with your tuna steaks?
Let me know in the comments below!
Instead of buying prepackaged fruit cups and/or fruit in gel, try simply taking a few minutes to prepare fresh cut fruit in a large container for easy accessibility and serving.
Many of these prepared fruit snacks found on grocery shelves may be labeled as 'natural', and in most cases that's great, but nothing beats assembling your own to create a fresh fruit snack that you feel certain about and know that nothing extra has been added.
In addition, the natural snacks found in stores often contain artificial preservatives to assure freshness. Try my approach below and feel great about the all-natural alkaline preservative I recommend for your fresh fruit assembly.
You simply save so much and gain peace of mind with preparing your own food period.
In preparing your own fresh cut mixed fruit you:
Many of these prepared fruit snacks found on grocery shelves may be labeled as 'natural', and in most cases that's great, but nothing beats assembling your own to create a fresh fruit snack that you feel certain about and know that nothing extra has been added.
In addition, the natural snacks found in stores often contain artificial preservatives to assure freshness. Try my approach below and feel great about the all-natural alkaline preservative I recommend for your fresh fruit assembly.
You simply save so much and gain peace of mind with preparing your own food period.
In preparing your own fresh cut mixed fruit you:
- $ave money.
- Select your own fresh produce.
- Boost health and drop pounds with a healthy snack easily accessible and on hand.
- Peace of mind that you're serving the best to you and your family.
four (4) simple Steps to
preparing, storing, and enjoying
your own all-natural fresh mixed fruit:
1. Select your fruit
 Bananas (Promotes digestion and skin health and boosts energy) |  Strawberries (Rich in Vitamin C & free radical fighting antioxidants to boost immunity) |  Blueberries (Antioxidants fighting free radicals to boost immunity) |  Oranges/Mandarins (Rich in Vitamin C to boost Immunity) |
2. Cut your fruit
Cut your choice fruit in bite-sized pieces for easy eating and toss them all into a bowl.
3. Naturally preserve your mixed cut fruit
Squeeze fresh alkaline-rich lime juice on your fresh cut fruit to natrually preserve by preventing oxidation and to keep fresh!
4. Securely store your fruit
 Select storage containers with tight lids to ensure longer freshness. *Note- glass is best! |  Mason jars with secure air-tight lids lock in freshness and are super convenient! |  Glass bowls come in various sizes to store your favorite chopped fruit! |
Nothing left to do but enjoy!
What are your favorite fruit combinations?
Let AC Art Of Food know in the comments below!
Let AC Art Of Food know in the comments below!
The BEST Ever Veggie & Dumplings- AC Art Of Food
I’ve learned to not let things intimidate me based on what others experience to be just that. Instead, if I’m interested, I simply attempt it myself. And after a few attempts, I mastered my version of this hearty comfort food fav. Let me introduce you to a delicious masterpiece, my BEST Veggie & Dumplings Recipe Ever!
Oh how I love a good chicken and dumpling, however, nowadays I’m not consuming chicken, but some in my family are. For this reason I purchased a fully cooked organic rotisserie chicken, chopped it up, and allowed for those that wanted chicken to add it to their own bowl! The kids really loved being able to have their hands in preparing a part of their meal, and I liked it because I could control their portion sizes as well. So much so, they began to realize how great the the dish was without so much of the focus on the chicken! And my favorite part was that I could ladle myself a delicious, steaming, creamy helping of this delicious stew and not have to pick out the chunks of chicken.
Oh how I love a good chicken and dumpling, however, nowadays I’m not consuming chicken, but some in my family are. For this reason I purchased a fully cooked organic rotisserie chicken, chopped it up, and allowed for those that wanted chicken to add it to their own bowl! The kids really loved being able to have their hands in preparing a part of their meal, and I liked it because I could control their portion sizes as well. So much so, they began to realize how great the the dish was without so much of the focus on the chicken! And my favorite part was that I could ladle myself a delicious, steaming, creamy helping of this delicious stew and not have to pick out the chunks of chicken.
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Now, it has become habit with every dish I prepare with an animal protein, to also look for a delicious way to prepare it vegetarian and/or vegan. My first approach is usually to deconstruct the meal itself into its intricate components and go from there. I switch this out for that, omit something all together, add a sprinkle of Abstract Spice to make it all come together…plant based.
Below are a few tips I ponder when converting a dish to plant based:
- Find a plant protein substitution that is similar in texture to the animal protein.
- Various mushroom types, jackfruit, tempeh, and tofu are my usual go-tos.
- I find bean substitutions to be too soft in texture, but it just depends on what I’m making and/or what I can combine it with.
- Often times you’ll find that no substitution is needed at all, and the dish is great without!
- If dairy or a dairy based ingredient is listed, shoot for a plant based product.
- Nut, hemp, and soy based milks are a great substitute when cooking.
- Although some may not like the taste or texture, these plant based versions are virtually and tastefully non-detectable in the cooking process.
Veggie & Dumplings, AC Art Of Food
What are your go-to animal protein substitutes? Let me know in the comments below!
BEST Ever Veggie & Dumplings REcipe
Easy Refrigerator Greens Omelette- AC Art Of Food
One Saturday a few weeks ago, I needed a protein packed bite to eat right after my workout but was short on time since I needed to be at the grocery store within the hour. So what’s a culinary health resource foodie to do?!?!?
Since I was at the end of the week, there were only small amounts of my weekly haul of kale, spinach, green onions, and fresh herbs left over in the fridge crisper unused from the week’s meals.
Now I have posted previously on how to make a delicious ‘green’ omelette, but this is just a reminder that when you’re bored with the hum-drum of scrambled, fried, and/or boiled eggs, it’s always a great idea to use what you have on hand in the fridge to make something protein rich, folded(lol!), and tasty!
Since I was at the end of the week, there were only small amounts of my weekly haul of kale, spinach, green onions, and fresh herbs left over in the fridge crisper unused from the week’s meals.
Now I have posted previously on how to make a delicious ‘green’ omelette, but this is just a reminder that when you’re bored with the hum-drum of scrambled, fried, and/or boiled eggs, it’s always a great idea to use what you have on hand in the fridge to make something protein rich, folded(lol!), and tasty!
Delicious Bio Coffee- AC Art Of Food
And what delicious warm beverage do I sip in the mornings while feasting on my breakfast? Why a cup of DELICIOUS coffee of course! But not just any cup of coffee, my Bio Coffee! Bio Coffee is the ONLY true alkaline coffee on the shelves today with a full serving of vegetables and wheatgrass! Ok, a bit much for your usual morning java? Seems to good to be true? A 'healthy' coffee with all this goodness and mercy couldn't possibly taste good, right?
This satisfying vitamin-rich blend reminds me of a favorite cappuccino mix from a certain company with an 'international' name. It's truly an amazing treat that my hubby and I enjoy literally every morning. The aroma is so enticing that you have to indulge in a cup! No worries if you need it to be a tad bit sweeter, simply add a tablespoon of your favorite plant based creamer and WHOLA!
So while you're reducing food waste by making my Easy Refrigerator Greens Omelette, DON'T FORGET get your cup of culinary health morning joe!
This satisfying vitamin-rich blend reminds me of a favorite cappuccino mix from a certain company with an 'international' name. It's truly an amazing treat that my hubby and I enjoy literally every morning. The aroma is so enticing that you have to indulge in a cup! No worries if you need it to be a tad bit sweeter, simply add a tablespoon of your favorite plant based creamer and WHOLA!
So while you're reducing food waste by making my Easy Refrigerator Greens Omelette, DON'T FORGET get your cup of culinary health morning joe!
What are some dishes you create from left over items in your fridge? Let me know in the comments below!
Easy Refrigerator Greens Omelette- AC Art Of Food
easy refrigerator greens omelette
Sautéed Collards w/ Garlic & Sherry, AC Art Of Food
For the record, I was raised on the goodness and mercy of a big pot of greens sitting on the stove on any given Sunday. Simmering bushels of leafy collards crowded with several ham hocks, onions, and peppers. Ohhhhh the days!
Don't get me wrong, this leafy vegetable remains a cornerstone dish in my kitchen and I'm certain many other kitchens alike. However, once you know better you absolutely have no choice but to do better. So after tossing the ham hocks (nope, not even a smoked turkey wing!), I imagined a healthier and just as tasty version of this essential green. The creation of my Quick Sautéed Collards w/ Garlic & Sherry helped me maintain the best of both worlds.
This delicious health-full plant is prepared in such a way that the vitamins, minerals, and valuable nutrients stay locked in- hence the 'quick' in the recipe title, lol! Unlike back in the day where that pot of greens would stay boiling on the stove ALL DAY long!
*History Taste Bud*: Pot Liquor, as it's often referred, is essentially these liquid/juices from the greens that cooked all day on that very stove in most African American homes. This pot liquor was oftentimes consumed separately as an additional supplement and also given to babies for nourishment because of its rich nutrient content.*
And the texture! The sherry adds a tasty component that helps in breaking down the leaves with added flavor that matches a days worth of cooking. These greens are amazingly tender, delicious, and so filling that you'll want to make more! And that's a good thing health wise as well as time wise- I mean really, the whole dish is ready from prep to plate in less than 15 minutes! This dish is also heart healthy with the use of garlic and olive oil in combination with this vitamin and mineral rich green. What's not to love about that?
Don't get me wrong, this leafy vegetable remains a cornerstone dish in my kitchen and I'm certain many other kitchens alike. However, once you know better you absolutely have no choice but to do better. So after tossing the ham hocks (nope, not even a smoked turkey wing!), I imagined a healthier and just as tasty version of this essential green. The creation of my Quick Sautéed Collards w/ Garlic & Sherry helped me maintain the best of both worlds.
This delicious health-full plant is prepared in such a way that the vitamins, minerals, and valuable nutrients stay locked in- hence the 'quick' in the recipe title, lol! Unlike back in the day where that pot of greens would stay boiling on the stove ALL DAY long!
*History Taste Bud*: Pot Liquor, as it's often referred, is essentially these liquid/juices from the greens that cooked all day on that very stove in most African American homes. This pot liquor was oftentimes consumed separately as an additional supplement and also given to babies for nourishment because of its rich nutrient content.*
And the texture! The sherry adds a tasty component that helps in breaking down the leaves with added flavor that matches a days worth of cooking. These greens are amazingly tender, delicious, and so filling that you'll want to make more! And that's a good thing health wise as well as time wise- I mean really, the whole dish is ready from prep to plate in less than 15 minutes! This dish is also heart healthy with the use of garlic and olive oil in combination with this vitamin and mineral rich green. What's not to love about that?
What do you like to eat with your greens? let me know in the comments below!
A New Years Trifecta, Collards, Blacked Peas, Ginger Roasted Broccoli, AC Art Of Food
Quick SAUTÉED collards with garlic & Sherry
Broccoli Slaw & Rice Noodle Stir-fry with a side of Crisp Tofu, AC Art Of Food
Ever been in the produce section of the grocery store, and while picking up a package of your favorite salad blend you notice that container of broccoli shreds? You know, it resembles the bag of shredded cabbage and carrots for a make-quick coleslaw, but it's green?
Well I've grabbed a bag here and there, usually when it's warmer out though. I'll mix it with a zesty garlic dressing and toss in some grilled shrimp for a light and delicious quick summer dinner. But what else could I use it for? I mean it's broccoli for crying out loud! Accompanied with nutrient rich carrots and purple cabbage. It's a package full of vitamins, minerals, and fiber goodness and mercy! What else would make it sing as a side or a main?
Enter Broccoli Slaw & Rice Noodle Stir-fry!
What an absolute genius way to make this convenient crisp and crunchy veggie mix sing! I mean, in 15 minutes or less this light and healthy dish comes together with great texture and Asian flare! Kicking it up a notch and stepping outside-of-the box, I opt for the rice 'noodle' as opposed to the more traditional long or short rice grain. Add your choice of grilled, baked, or broiled protein such as chicken, tofu, and/or seafood, and you're set for a one pan experience! However, my preference is having it alone as a noodle bowl with the addition of only a splash of sriracha.
I say an 'additional' splash of sriracha because the recipe calls for my ACAOF Stir-fry Sauce to be mixed in the dish which includes the spicy condiment. Now, feel free to use your favorite store bought sauce, I just love this sauce because I know exactly what's in it and don't have to worry about the extra ingredients I don't need.
ACAOF Stir-fry Sauce
It's simple, just mix together:
This sauce brings the dish together in such a delicious way, it's no wonder I chose to devour it all by itself!
Well I've grabbed a bag here and there, usually when it's warmer out though. I'll mix it with a zesty garlic dressing and toss in some grilled shrimp for a light and delicious quick summer dinner. But what else could I use it for? I mean it's broccoli for crying out loud! Accompanied with nutrient rich carrots and purple cabbage. It's a package full of vitamins, minerals, and fiber goodness and mercy! What else would make it sing as a side or a main?
Enter Broccoli Slaw & Rice Noodle Stir-fry!
What an absolute genius way to make this convenient crisp and crunchy veggie mix sing! I mean, in 15 minutes or less this light and healthy dish comes together with great texture and Asian flare! Kicking it up a notch and stepping outside-of-the box, I opt for the rice 'noodle' as opposed to the more traditional long or short rice grain. Add your choice of grilled, baked, or broiled protein such as chicken, tofu, and/or seafood, and you're set for a one pan experience! However, my preference is having it alone as a noodle bowl with the addition of only a splash of sriracha.
I say an 'additional' splash of sriracha because the recipe calls for my ACAOF Stir-fry Sauce to be mixed in the dish which includes the spicy condiment. Now, feel free to use your favorite store bought sauce, I just love this sauce because I know exactly what's in it and don't have to worry about the extra ingredients I don't need.
ACAOF Stir-fry Sauce
It's simple, just mix together:
- 1 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp low sodium soy sauce or liquid aminos
- 1 tsp sriracha
- 1/2 tsp sesame oil
This sauce brings the dish together in such a delicious way, it's no wonder I chose to devour it all by itself!
Broccoli Slaw & Rice Noodle Stir-fry, AC Art Of Food
How would you serve this dish? Are you solo, or would you top it?
Let me know in the comments below!
Broccoli Slaw & Rice Noodle Stir Fry
Celery Wake-Up Smoothie Juice, AC Art Of Food
Meet my New Year Veggie Crush= CELERY😍. And hence, my Celery Wake-Up Smoothie Juice!
This refreshing juice smoothie is best if consumed on an empty stomach first thing in the a.m.
Now, alone the vegetable celery and its juice are AMAZING and SUPER impactful to the body and immune system. The additional fruit blended in(100% with nothing added), simply add their own individual benefits to this mineral rich morning beverage. What's more, the fruit also adds a natural sweetening component😉.
If your blender does not produce a smooth juice-like product and you experience some froth and/or fibers from the celery, simply strain with a cheesecloth directly into your glass.
For some additional motivation, take a look below at just some of the benefits derived from this secret 'super' food celery. I've researched this powerful unsung veggie and am in complete awe of it's powers:
💥Reduces inflammation
💥Supports digestion
💥Reduces cancer risk
💥Reduces blood pressure
💥Supports eye health as we age
💥SUPER RICH in vitamins and minerals
💥Alkaline
Start your year, and day off right with this simple and super effective juice smoothie!
This refreshing juice smoothie is best if consumed on an empty stomach first thing in the a.m.
Now, alone the vegetable celery and its juice are AMAZING and SUPER impactful to the body and immune system. The additional fruit blended in(100% with nothing added), simply add their own individual benefits to this mineral rich morning beverage. What's more, the fruit also adds a natural sweetening component😉.
If your blender does not produce a smooth juice-like product and you experience some froth and/or fibers from the celery, simply strain with a cheesecloth directly into your glass.
For some additional motivation, take a look below at just some of the benefits derived from this secret 'super' food celery. I've researched this powerful unsung veggie and am in complete awe of it's powers:
💥Reduces inflammation
💥Supports digestion
💥Reduces cancer risk
💥Reduces blood pressure
💥Supports eye health as we age
💥SUPER RICH in vitamins and minerals
💥Alkaline
Start your year, and day off right with this simple and super effective juice smoothie!
Do you enjoy smoothie juices in the morning? What's your best 'health-ful' Smoothie combo? Let me know in the comments below!
celery wake-up smoothie juice
The Question: Just How 'Fresh' is Amazon's Grocery Delivery Service...Really?
Unlike most of you out there, I adore grocery shopping! I mean seriously, the whole preparation of seeking out weekly deals, coupons, planning the meals for the week to produce the list, and the art of deciding from which of the 3-4 stores I will arrive at first on Saturdays to retrieve the best deals for my selections sends tingles down my spine! Hell, I even started my own grocery concierge- ‘A Cart Of Food’ (see the play on the name, lol!), where I would grocery shop for clients. I had a few clients that were extremely happy, however, time became an issue, and well, let’s face it- when the big box Instacart, Clicklist, and AmazonFresh businesses came on the scene, it was laughable for just me to compete on the larger scale. And in this case the old saying rings true, if you can’t beat them, have them do your shopping too!
​
Unlike most of you out there, I adore grocery shopping! I mean seriously, the whole preparation of seeking out weekly deals, coupons, planning the meals for the week to produce the list, and the art of deciding from which of the 3-4 stores I will arrive at first on Saturdays to retrieve the best deals for my selections sends tingles down my spine! Hell, I even started my own grocery concierge- ‘A Cart Of Food’ (see the play on the name, lol!), where I would grocery shop for clients. I had a few clients that were extremely happy, however, time became an issue, and well, let’s face it- when the big box Instacart, Clicklist, and AmazonFresh businesses came on the scene, it was laughable for just me to compete on the larger scale. And in this case the old saying rings true, if you can’t beat them, have them do your shopping too!
​
Grocery shopping Saturday for AC Art Of Food!
This past Monday I found myself stranded without a vehicle since my hubby took one to work and my oldest used the other to get to school. I had just gotten back in town and had not yet had the opportunity to grocery shop for the family before the week got started. This is when I decided I would try the Amazon Fresh service. Already a proud and loyal Prime member, on top of having several close friends to positively speak of their personal experiences, I decided to give it a go! I was thoroughly impressed by the easy online process from beginning to end along with the selection of fresh, organic, and familiar trusted brands. Unfortunately after selecting my items, I realized that they did not deliver same day, and decided to cancel my cart. Customer service with Amazon Fresh is no different from that of Prime where courteous and pleasant reps are always speaking with a smile and ready to accommodate however they can.
Although unable to receive the service on Monday, I thought it a great idea to still utilize the service along with my regular Saturday shopping excursion just for the experience and to see if and how I could maybe incorporate this convenience going forward. So just like earlier in the week, on Friday before I walked out the office, I made my selection of approximately 20 items to be delivered between the hours of 7-9am for the following day, approved the tip amount for the driver, and pondered if this grocery shopping method was cost-friendlier than my normal Saturday pavement-pounding only ritual.
​Later that evening around 11pm, my family tells me things they would like added to the list….really….at 11pm!?! No worries, I pull up the app and the banner let’s me know that I am STILL able to add items to my list for the same delivery window time! So I add my son’s bananas and my hubby’s cereal, and turn in for the evening.
Although unable to receive the service on Monday, I thought it a great idea to still utilize the service along with my regular Saturday shopping excursion just for the experience and to see if and how I could maybe incorporate this convenience going forward. So just like earlier in the week, on Friday before I walked out the office, I made my selection of approximately 20 items to be delivered between the hours of 7-9am for the following day, approved the tip amount for the driver, and pondered if this grocery shopping method was cost-friendlier than my normal Saturday pavement-pounding only ritual.
​Later that evening around 11pm, my family tells me things they would like added to the list….really….at 11pm!?! No worries, I pull up the app and the banner let’s me know that I am STILL able to add items to my list for the same delivery window time! So I add my son’s bananas and my hubby’s cereal, and turn in for the evening.
Groceries arrived safely and on time! AC Art Of Food
Bright and early around 7am, my phone rings and it’s the Amazon Fresh delivery guy letting me know he’s at my door with my groceries. Super excited, I jump out of bed, throw on the robe (y’all it’s cold out now!) and completely ignore the fact that my hair is standing up on its own on top of my head. It doesn’t even matter because I am literally feeling like a kid on Christmas morning! The driver is SUPER nice and friendly for it to be that early in the morning. He insists on handing me each bag and for me not to have to bend and reach to grab them on my own. He does not enter the house, but stands where he can safely hand each bag to me to where I can securely bring them in. Once all the bags are in he wishes me a great day and thanks me for my business. Awesome experience! I hurriedly transport each bag to my kitchen island and immediately break into each literally like it’s the morning of December 25th! My eyes are all starried as I reach in checking off each item on my list I pull it out of the bag. However, my eyes become a little less excited as I see that I am almost done opening my packages, but there are way more items on my list still to be checked off. Dang it! I realize they have forgotten at least 8 items from my list. And the missing items aren’t even the last minute ones I added just several hours prior. My heart sank as I contacted Amazon to tell them what happened. The rep, as usual, was very nice in listening to my ordeal, but simply offered the choice of a refund or delivery of the missing items. Unfortunately, the earliest my incognito items could be delivered was 9pm. I expressed that a refund would be fine and I would just have to make a trip out to get the forgotten items since it would be so late for them to re-deliver to me. And that was it. She did apologize for the inconvenience, which is great, but that doesn’t help the fact that now I have to leave my home to pick up grocery items, COMPLETELY defeating the purpose of the service. Unsettled by this resolution, I reached back out to Amazon Fresh and spoke with Jinell, who after hearing what happened did not hesitate to extend a credit for the mishap.
A nice haul, just missing some items- AC Art Of Food
Now, will I use this service again? Absolutely! I completely understand that things happen and have every bit of confidence that they will get it right, and that when issues arise they will handle it promptly and accordingly to my satisfaction- as they have always through Amazon Prime.
Just a little info on Amazon Fresh- AC Art Of Food
SOME INFO:
THE GOOD:
THE BAD:
THE OPPORTUNITY:
- Amazon Fresh is $14.95 monthly for Amazon Prime members. Personally I felt that with the annual fee, not to mention the recent increase in the monthly Prime membership, that this would have been an included service for members. However, I was told by the representative that the amount of sales and coupons provided by Amazon Fresh online will in most cases eat up this fee.
- This is not a same day service so plan accordingly at least a day prior. There is the option to have your items left outside your door and an ‘Attended’ option to be notified if you are home to personally receive your groceries.
THE GOOD:
- Ease and convenience.
- Easy user-friendly interface.
- Quality selection of products, organic, and trusted brands (Whole Foods products).
- Comparable prices to what you’d find in the stores and in some cases even less expensive.
- EXCELLENT delivery experience
- Effective issue resolution
- Proper storage for cold and frozen items (some of my bags had partially frozen water bottles in the bags to keep the refrigerated items cool and ice packs/bags to keep frozen items frozen!)
THE BAD:
- Not having an accurate out-the-door checkpoint to ensure all items are correctly selected for orders.
THE OPPORTUNITY:
- For a more effective issue resolution, train customer service reps to automatically provide an 'inconvenience credit' for missing items when a refund is requested.​
HAVE ANY OF YOU EVER UTILIZED AMAZON FRESH OR ANY OTHER GROCERY SHOPPING/DELIVERY SERVICE?
LET ME KNOW YOUR EXPERIENCE IN THE COMMENTS BELOW!
Delicious Fall recipe- Roasted Sweet Potatoes w/ Honey, Blue Cheese & Sage, AC Art Of Food
Can you believe Thanksgiving is right around the corner....again! The year goes by so fast, but just in time to sit side-by-side with the featured holiday turkey is my amazingly delicious Roasted Sweet Potatoes w/ Honey, Blue Cheese & Crisp Sage! The mildly sweet root vegetable amped up with sweetness from local honey, a bit of sharp creaminess from the pungent blue cheese crumbles, and all balanced out with the subtle earthiness from the ground sage herb.(6/2017)
This is indeed a super easy, super simple dish with a beautiful presentation that will jazz up any usual Thanksgiving dinner table. I actually revamped this from a summer post made last year but lends itself to perfection now being in the ideal season.
This is indeed a super easy, super simple dish with a beautiful presentation that will jazz up any usual Thanksgiving dinner table. I actually revamped this from a summer post made last year but lends itself to perfection now being in the ideal season.
Now to really spice things up on your table for this dish, try accenting with my recipe for fresh Crisp-Fried Sage Leaves! It's a quick and simple process that will add an elegant finishing touch to this already amazing dish! These crispy leaves can be added to almost any casserole dish for added flavor and panache!
Crisp-fried Sage Leaves are the perfect garnish for this sweet potato dish! AC Art Of Food
Crisp-fried sage leaves
Ingredients:
- 1 bunch fresh sage (approximately 30 leaves), cleaned and separated
- 1⁄4 cup olive oil
- Sea Salt
- In a pan, heat oil in a small skillet on med/high heat until hot.
- Add sage leaves to pan in batches (as not to overlap in the skillet to crisp properly) for approximately 2 minutes at a time.
- Remove from pan with slotted spoon or fork and let drain on a paper towel-lined plate immediately sprinkling with sea salt while still bubbling from the oil.
- Repeat until complete and arrange atop this dish as a crisp finishing touch!
What's your favorite Thanksgiving dish?
Let me know in the comments below!
sweet potatoes with honey, blue cheese & sage
Easy Sneaky Sloppy Joes, AC Art Of Food
I remember when I was a kid my mom never made sloppy joes and that I only got to devour them when I would sleep over at a friend’s house! I’m sure her reluctance had everything to do with the unhealthy contents of the canin which it came. For this reason, plus the fact that my husband has a deep passion for these accompanied with tater tots, my Easy Sneaky Sloppy Joes have reignited my childhood, and from a healthier perspective my mother would be proud of.
Carrots put the 'sneaky' in my Easy Sneaky Sloppy Joes, AC Art Of Food
What’s the ‘sneaky’ you ask? Carrots! Not only do they provide the obvious nutritional vitamin benefits such as lycopene, but they also add a natural sweetness to the sauce! And trust, the kids will be none the wiser! Ha, my hubby doesn’t even know I sneak them in there! It ain’t easy being sneaky- so enjoy, guilt free!
Sandwich this delicious filling between your favorite choice of bun. My family typically raves over a potato roll. However, we have also ventured out to the Hawaiian, brioche, artisan rolls, and of course for my keto-diet-friendly foodies, a nice firm leaf of romaine a scrumptious substitute!
Sandwich this delicious filling between your favorite choice of bun. My family typically raves over a potato roll. However, we have also ventured out to the Hawaiian, brioche, artisan rolls, and of course for my keto-diet-friendly foodies, a nice firm leaf of romaine a scrumptious substitute!
WHAT'S YOUR FAVORITE CHILDHOOD FOOD?
lET ME KNOW IN THE COMMENTS BELOW!
easy 'sNEAKY' sLOPPY jOES!
Now that the weather is finally catching up with the current season, one of my favorite types of food is essential- SOUP! Nothing warms the soul better than a delicious bowl of stew, chili, or in this case, my smooth, creamy and rich Maple Butternut Squash Soup!
This one-pot wonder is such a velvety taste of wonder that you will not believe how super easy it is to make! Each ingredient is sautéed in one pot, melding together a delicious symphony of vegetables, natural sweetness, and healing spices that welcome the cooler weather approaching.
This one-pot wonder is such a velvety taste of wonder that you will not believe how super easy it is to make! Each ingredient is sautéed in one pot, melding together a delicious symphony of vegetables, natural sweetness, and healing spices that welcome the cooler weather approaching.
The feature root vegetable in this soup is butternut. But you can use acorn squash, sweet potato, or even carrot to create your own version of this soup. Just as many nutrients and vitamins with the same additional ingredients used in preparation.
Warm healing spice notes from the turmeric, cumin, and nutmeg in this recipe make this Maple Butternut Squash Soup actually a Super Food Soup! Oh, and did I mention this rich delicious bowl of goodness and mercy is VEGAN! *Insert warm and fuzzies here*
Warm healing spice notes from the turmeric, cumin, and nutmeg in this recipe make this Maple Butternut Squash Soup actually a Super Food Soup! Oh, and did I mention this rich delicious bowl of goodness and mercy is VEGAN! *Insert warm and fuzzies here*
I am certain you will enjoy this scrumptious celebration of the season soup!
Try this recipe and let me know what you think! Don’t forget to post pics to the comments below!
Smooth & Creamy Maple Butternut Squash Soup
The combination of sweet-tart cherries and the savory creaminess of this fresh cheese make for a phenomenal appetizer in my super simple Goat Cheese Spread & Cherry Compote Crostini.
Last weekend I decided to bring the retro 'dinner party' term to life in 2018. What started off as a make-up for a missed birthday event for a friend, turned into a beautiful opportunity to celebrate a good friend, along with good food!
Last weekend I decided to bring the retro 'dinner party' term to life in 2018. What started off as a make-up for a missed birthday event for a friend, turned into a beautiful opportunity to celebrate a good friend, along with good food!
The key to an enjoyable evening of cooking for friends is to not over-complicate the process. Deliciously simple is the way to win! And what's easier than bread, cheese, and fruit? Now, I'm known to put a mean cheese platter together loaded with wonderful fresh and aged cheese varieties, salty dried meats, nuts, sweet dried and fresh fruit, and various gourmet crackers. However, I decided I wanted a more 'Autumn' feel. While my infamous cheese platters are all the rave when it's warmer out, I wanted to take a different approach for the cooler time of the year. Warm crusty bread, creamy herb cheese spread, and deep earthy sweetness of stewed-like stone fruit just speaks 'Fall is here'!
My initial dried fruit of choice was cranberries. However, right next to the package was an equally tasty looking bag of dried cherries! Needless to say, either one would work magically, but my love for cherries during the summertime spoke a little louder given that I could bring them to life in the Fall. Not to mention the awesome health benefits cherries have such as melatonin(sleep aid), cardiovascular health, anti-aging properties, as well as having the power to lower hypertension.
For the cheese spread, cream cheese is added to create a more smooth consistency when spreading as opposed to the goat cheese alone having the tendency to crumble when applied. But no worries, the tangy goat cheese flavor still reigns supreme!
The baguette in this assembly presents a heartier vehicle for this delicious foodie topping combo that brings its own delicious identity when drizzled with fresh extra virgin olive oil. The sprinkle is simply added flavor. Remember, in cooking you must season each layer for maximum flavor!
My initial dried fruit of choice was cranberries. However, right next to the package was an equally tasty looking bag of dried cherries! Needless to say, either one would work magically, but my love for cherries during the summertime spoke a little louder given that I could bring them to life in the Fall. Not to mention the awesome health benefits cherries have such as melatonin(sleep aid), cardiovascular health, anti-aging properties, as well as having the power to lower hypertension.
For the cheese spread, cream cheese is added to create a more smooth consistency when spreading as opposed to the goat cheese alone having the tendency to crumble when applied. But no worries, the tangy goat cheese flavor still reigns supreme!
The baguette in this assembly presents a heartier vehicle for this delicious foodie topping combo that brings its own delicious identity when drizzled with fresh extra virgin olive oil. The sprinkle is simply added flavor. Remember, in cooking you must season each layer for maximum flavor!
So enjoy this recipe and feel free to substitute dried cranberries or even dried berries, to toast the season! (yep, pun intended!)
What's your favorite dinner appetizer go to? Post it below in the comments and let me try it too!
Goat Cheese & Cherry Compote Crostini
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