Hello and welcome back to The Stone Soup Cook–I’m genuinely happy you’re here!
Show hands: how many of you overindulged during the holidays? I know I did. We had a lovely time meeting up with and entertaining family and dear friends alike, some of whom we hadn’t seen since the pandemic. It was wonderful to get caught up and to share some good food, beverages and laughter. I wouldn’t trade a minute of it.
As the rosy, soft light of Holiday 2023 gave way to the bright lights of New Year 2024, I realized we were left with a mountain of cookies and candy–gifts from loved ones and remnants of baking, cookie exchanges and decorating parties–that I had somehow assumed I was entitled to eat on every day. And that was what was easy to get my arms around because it’s still leftover and I can see it. The harder part of holiday overindulgence is all about the rich, yummy food, sides and desserts–not to mention the wine. I made panettone, braised short ribs, tamales, turkey and dressing twice, steak au poivre three times and four pecan pies during the holidays–and those are just the things I cranked out of my own kitchen. We also went out to eat far more than we usually do and indulged in yummy specialities that I only get at favorite restaurants.
So, it’s no wonder that right now, I feel like I need to do a little scrubbing from the inside out.
This week, I’m going to feature some healthy(er) fare that still tastes good and won’t feel like too much of a shock after all that rich, delicious food from the holidays.
First up, is my halibut cooked in parchment paper:
This is a great, easy recipe to cook on a weeknight alongside of some pesto pasta and steamed vegetables. Trust me: you’ll still feel like you’re indulging in holiday goodness!
Tune in later in the week for more healthy(er) fare from my kitchen to yours. Until then,
Peace, love and good food,
Keri
