When I'm eating my meal, I'm usually thinking about my next.
- Melanie Hadida
Cooking is my creative contribution to my family and community.
I used to be a picky eater but soon discovered that cooking was my way of expanding my culinary horizons and customizing my eating experiences. I love that cooking is infinitely creative and educational. As I became more confident in my skills, I began cooking more and more for friends and family, often having people over for brunches and dinners. I get endless enjoyment from cooking for other people and it's the perfect way to bring everyone I love around the same table.
I love the durability and versatility of Kana.
Between the Dutch Oven and the skillet I can practically do all of my stovetop cooking and I love that both are transferable to the oven as well. The pre-cut parchment paper is a dream to work with. I do a lot of roasting and toasting (veggies, nuts, tofu etc.) and the convenience of the paper is more than welcome in my kitchen. As a busy new mom, convenience is key!
SHOP MELANIE'S FAVORITE
Don't underestimate the power (and flavor) of greens!
Living and working in an Ayurvedic clinic in India taught me about the healing powers of spices and herbs.
"Let thy food be thy medicine and thy medicine be thy food."
For a nutritional boost, use mint, coriander and parsley the way you’d use romaine or spinach in your salads!
Cook according to the seasons - your food will taste better and your body will thank you.
Their latest delight,
now on the blog
Healthier Maple and Goji Berry Granola
This healthier granola recipe is so simple, you won't have any excuse for purchasing the store-bought version ever again! Packed full of naturally occurring vitamins and minerals, this is a real breakfast treat that pairs perfectly with Greek yogurt and fresh berries.
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Recipe by
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Prep time5 minutes
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Cook Time20 minutes
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Yield7½ Cups
Skillet Roast Tandoori Chicken
Goodbye boring, flavorless chicken! This delicious recipe by Melanie Hadida features a delicious spice blend that comes together quickly with no fuss and roasts easily in a cast iron skillet for ultimate crispiness and texture. Pair the dish with fluffy basmati rice and a crisp, crunchy salad for a sensational meal with minimal effort.
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Recipe by
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Prep time10 minutes
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Cook Time55 minutes
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Serves4 to 6
Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Crispy Sage and Parmesan
Whip up a batch of these pillowy gnocchi and you'll find yourself smiling down at the plate -- thanks to the sweet potato, these little dumplings are cheerfully tinged with orange. Simply skillet fry with sage and butter and enjoy!
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Recipe by
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Prep time30 minutes
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Cook Time55 minutes
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Serves2
In the kitchen, condiments are king.
What is your secret to preparing quick and easy meals that are also interesting?
My biggest cooking secret is having a well-stocked pantry. Ensuring you're equipped with the building blocks of a dynamic meal is a game changer for easy, quick weeknight meals. Stock up on grains (quinoa, couscous, rice), lentils, cans of organic chickpeas, chopped tomatoes etc. Also, having plenty of condiments in the pantry means you can make a variety of marinades, vinaigrettes and sauces at a moment's notice. My condiment essentials are: extra virgin olive oil, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, date syrup, pomegranate molasses, dijon mustard, tahini and full fat Greek yogurt.
What is your favorite way to incorporate greens that pack a flavor punch?
Another one of my kitchen secret weapons is an herb garden. This can be an expansive garden in your backyard, or a very modest planter box on a window sill. Having fresh mint, basil, coriander and parsley year round can help to make all your meals brighter, fresher and healthier. Once you've mastered growing the basics, try expanding your garden to include rosemary, thyme, oregano, tarragon, chives etc. Adding fresh herbs to salads, soups, dips and curries is a game changer.