What's Cooking? Down-Home-ish Cooking

The leaves have changed and fallen. Winter, I suppose, is here. At least I can take comfort in the fact that there are many warm, comforting foods to help eke out a winter existence. Celery root and hardy greens are two great options. The former held the spotlight on my blog nearly a year ago, and the latter adds some color and nutrients to a chilly day's meal. This weekend I also discovered a new spice - smoked Spanish paprika! I was beyond excited, so had to incorporate it into dish.

Roasted Mashed Celeriac
1 celery root, cubed
1/4 medium red onion, chopped
1 clove garlic, split
salt to taste
olive oil to coat

1. Roaste all ingredients in a pan at 400F for about 30 minutes, until very tender. Stir halfway through.
2. Dump into a food processor. Blend until desired texture. And enjoy! Simple? Yup.

Smokey Greens
5-6 collard greens leaves, chopped
1/4 red onion, chopped
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp Spanish smoked paprika
1/2 cup cooked black-eyed peas
dash salt
Juice of half a lemon (optional)
1-2 tsp olive oil

1. Heat oil in a skillet. Add onions and cook until they start to get translucent. Add greens, cooking until starting to wilt. Add spices and peas, heating for another 5 minutes or so. Spritz with lemon juice. Top with celeriac mash. Enjoy warm!

Check out more healthy weekend dishes on Diet, Desserts and Dogs for Wellness Weekends!