Category Archives: Quick and Easy

Seared Artichoke and White Bean Pasta

Seared Artichoke and White Bean Pasta by Alison's AllspiceThis recipe is a classic example of how good canned vegetables can be.  I have tried this seared artichoke and white bean pasta recipe with frozen artichoke hearts as well and found it to be a little too dry.  The artichokes that are canned in brine are better suited for searing because they don’t dry out as much while they caramelize.

The searing process adds not only a pop of color, but also bring out the sweetness of the artichokes beautifully.  It takes a little time, so be patient.  The end result is a delicious yet simple pasta dinner. Continue reading

Smoky Trout Tacos with Lemon Garlic Aioli

Smoky Trout Tacos with Lemon Garlic Aioli by Alison's AllspiceI don’t think there is such a thing as a perfect fish taco.  It can’t be because there are just so many good ways to do it, no one recipe could ever be the best.  Nevertheless, I am always in the pursuit of perfecting recipes and fish tacos are easily a food group in my house, so here is another variation for you to try: smoky trout tacos with lemon garlic aioli.

Can we talk about aioli for a minute, please?  Does anyone actually use eggs to make their aioli?  Maybe I’m the only one that is totally hooked on the ease of using mayo, but what can I say?  It’s delicious, easy to make, and I don’t have to fuss with raw eggs.  Win-win in my book. Continue reading

Lemon and Green Olive Pasta

Lemon and Green Olive Pasta by Alison's AllspiceThis simple bright lemon and green olive pasta is for those dreary winter days when you need a fresh pick-me-up.  Think of it like a trip to the beach.  The lemon represents the bright sunshine, and the briny olives represent the scent of the ocean. Continue reading

Easy Garlic Roasted Salmon

Easy Garlic Roasted Salmon by Alison's AllspiceThis easy garlic roasted salmon recipe is so simple, and yet is my favorite way to make salmon.  It really lets the flavor of a quality salmon shine instead of overpowering it with seasonings and glazes.

That being said, you can mix it up by stirring in additional toppings.  Try ¼ tsp red pepper flake for a spicy version.  Try 1 tsp fresh minced rosemary for an herbed version. Mix in 1 tsp honey for a sweetened version. Continue reading

Sheet Pan Tofu and Broccoli with Peanut Dipping Sauce

Sheet Pan Tofu and Broccoli with Peanut Dipping Sauce by Alison's Allspice How often do you make sheet pan recipes?  I’ll be honest, I don’t use this fast and easy cooking method as often as I should!  This sheet pan tofu and broccoli recipe comes with peanut dipping sauce, and only requires one sheet pan to make!

Clean up is a breeze when it comes to sheet pan recipes.  I like using parchment paper as well, making clean up even easier. Continue reading

Lemony Brussels Sprouts and Cranberry Slaw

Lemony Brussels Sprouts and Cranberry Slaw by Alison's AllspiceIs everyone ready for thanksgiving yet?  I have my menu planned, but none of the shopping done.  This lemony brussels sprouts and cranberry slaw is definitely worth adding to your menu if you need another good vegetable side dish!

One of the best things about this slaw during the busy holidays is that it really benefits from sitting in the dressing for at least 15 minutes before serving. Continue reading

Healthy-ish Stove Top Mac and Cheese

Healthy-ish Stove Top Mac and Cheese by Alison's AllspiceFall is finally in full swing, and that always puts me in the mood for comfort food like mac and cheese.  I didn’t want to compromise when I made my version, so you won’t find extra things like squash in this healthy-ish stove top mac and cheese.

Don’t get me wrong.  I love a good butternut squash cheese sauce, but when you want the real deal, nothing else will do. Continue reading

Creamy Smoked Tofu and Olive Pasta Salad

Creamy Smoked Tofu and Olive Pasta Salad by Alison's AllspiceI am not the only one in my family that likes to cook.  Many, many moons ago, I shared a lemon caper dressing recipe with my family that was a hit.  Not long after, this creamy smoked tofu and olive pasta salad recipe, using my dressing, was shared with me.

I don’t believe I would have ever google searched for a pasta salad like this one; the mix of ingredients seams random, but I promise you it is not.  The combination of flavors is specific and on point. Continue reading

Clam and Arugula Pasta

Clam and Arugula Pasta by Alison's AllspiceI enjoyed this clam and arugula pasta a lot this spring when the arugula was growing in the garden.  It is a light and refreshing meal that is quick and easy to make.  I can’t wait for my fall arugula patch to grow so that I can start enjoying it again!

I am a huge fan of simple veggie pasta dishes.  Pasta, especially spaghetti, is such comfort food for me.  When you add seafood such as clams, it takes elevates comfort food to the next level! Continue reading

Lemon Feta Vinaigrette

Lemon Feta Vinaigrette by Alison's AllspiceI love to add feta to my salads.  Especially when I use a vinaigrette, the feta adds something creamy.  I often find myself dumping tons of feta onto my salad because I want a little feta in every bite.  This lemon feta vinaigrette solves that issue.

The feta is blended right into the dressing so end up getting a little bit coating every leaf and vegetable in your salad.  It turns into a less is more situation. Continue reading