Healthy Turkey Chili

 olive oil 1 yellow onion- diced 4-5 garlic cloves-minced 2 bell pepper- whichever color combo you like- diced  1 pound extra lean ground turkey or chicken  4 tablespoons chili powder 2 teaspoons ground cumin  2 tablespoons smoked paprika  Fresh cilantro  cayenne pepper salt  pepper and garlic powder  1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes or crushed tomatoes1  1-1/4cups […]

Panera Chicken and Wild Rice Soup- not a copycat

Panera Chicken and Wild Rice Soup- not a copycat I think everyone has had the Panera bread version of chicken and wild rice soup. Whenever I go there, I always get it with a salad. Let’s be honest, it’s absolutely delicious.   That said, this is NOT  a copycat, it’s more of an homage. It’s my version […]

Artichoke Green Bean Dressing/Casserole

This is one of those quick easy sides or dressings that can be setup in under ten minutes. Albeit, it needs to bake for 20-30 minutes but to assemble it is a quick, easy, no brainer operation. The fact that it’s absolutely delicious is a huge bonus!  I’m always looking for reasons to make this, and […]

Cornbread casserole or corn pudding

depends on where you’re from. I always called this corn pudding but found out that up north it’s called cornbread casserole.  I fell in love with this the first time I had it at a place called voodoo bar b q back home. I used to order extra to take home. The kicker is that […]

Cajun Roasted Turkey

I have to admit, I have not roasted a Turkey until 5 years ago when I moved from the south. I used to fry them or smoke them every year. To be completely honest, Turkey is my least favorite protein.  However; cooking it like this keeps it nice and juicy; as well as, gives it a […]

Tzatziki Sauce

I think everyone has had this delightful blend of Greek yogurt and cucumber; I’m not sure everyone realizes how simple it is to make.   This delicious blend, is great in a variety of ways.  This time I was making it to go on som chicken Gyro with a whole wheat pita; however it is equally good as […]

Eggplant Rollatini

This was my favorite dish at the last restaurant I worked in. I would sneak some of this off to the side, it was so good.  This is one of those simple, yet delicious and elegant things.  At the restaurant it was served as an appetizer; but, for me its an entree.  To make this you will […]

New Orleans Chicken and Andouille Orzo 

So a little over a week ago I had a slight health scare.   Since then I have made it a point to change what and how I eat; as well as, prepare meals.  I am using this as an opportunity to find healthier ways to make the foods I love and find other alternatives.   This is one […]

New Orleans Shrimp and Artichoke Bisque

If you’re from some parts of the country, you may not consider this a true bisque; because, while it is creamy, it’s not exactly a smooth or puréed texture.  I could be incorrect, however, it is my understanding that any shellfish “soup” is technically a bisque.   This particular bisque blends my two favorite ingredients into one […]