Call me Coley! Food blogger. Video maker (YouTube: ColeyCooks). Gardener.🍴🍅🐟✌🏻️
Articles by Nicole Gaffney
Italian Sausage Stuffing
This homemade Italian sausage stuffing is flavorful, moist, and tender on the inside with a golden, buttery crust on top. Rich Italian sausage, good turkey stock, buttery bread cubes, aromatics, and plenty of fresh herbs come together to make a mouthwatering version of this classic side dish for Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner. Truly nothing says the holidays like this recipe! This post may contain affiliate links. Thoroughly dried bread cubes soak up the stock without becoming soggy or gummy.
Classic Cheesy Corn Casserole
This moist, cheesy corn casserole without Jiffy skips the cans and box mix for a 100% homemade version that's still very easy to make. It has a moist, spoonable center with crisp, golden, cheesy edges, and sweet corn flavor in every bite. Assemble it ahead for a comforting side dish at Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any family dinner! This post may contain affiliate links. An entirely homemade version of the classic recipe that skips the pre-packed and canned products.
Roasted Turkey Breast with Herb Butter (Dry Brined)
This dry brined turkey breast recipe is the easiest way to get juicy, perfectly seasoned meat and shatteringly crisp, crackly skin without the mess and hassle of a wet brine. Herb butter adds rich flavor, while simple prep and a few crucial tips take the guesswork out of roasting for evenly cooked meat. It's much easier than cooking a whole turkey but still every bit as special for a smaller Thanksgiving dinner! This post may contain affiliate links.
Tiramisu Recipe with Mascarpone Zabaglione
This is the ultimate classic tiramisu recipe that I've perfected after dozens of tries. It has a perfect ratio of silky mascarpone cream, espresso soaked ladyfingers, and little bit of cocoa in every bite. The rich, airy filling is made the traditional way with mascarpone cheese, softly whipped cream, and an authentic zabaglione custard. It's simpler than it sounds and is ideal for making ahead since it needs plenty of time to chill. This post may contain affiliate links.
Crab Stuffed Mushrooms
These mouthwatering crab stuffed mushrooms are a classic cocktail party appetizer and always a huge crowd-pleaser. Tender cremini mushrooms are filled to the brim with a creamy crabmeat mix, topped with Parmesan panko breadcrumbs and roasted until tender, juicy, and crisp. They make a fabulous holiday appetizer for Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year's Eve, or any gathering that calls for something special. This post may contain affiliate links.
The Feast Of The Seven Fishes for Christmas Eve
The Feast of the Seven Fishes is my favorite Italian-American Christmas Eve tradition. It's all about gathering family and friends around the table to enjoy multiple delicious seafood dishes. From classic Italian recipes to family favorites, it's a wonderful way to celebrate Christmas Eve, share great food, and keep old traditions alive whether your family is Italian or not. This post may contain affiliate links.
Torta della Nonna (Italian Custard Tart)
This classic torta della nonna recipe is an Italian custard tart made with a silky pastry cream baked between two layers of tender pasta frolla and topped with buttery pine nuts. A few simple techniques ensure the custard sets properly and the bottom crust bakes up golden and crisp. It's a delicious and festive Italian dessert that's perfect for Christmas, Thanksgiving, and Easter! This post may contain affiliate links.
Garlic Parmesan Dinner Rolls
Make the Dough Make the tangzhong by whisking ½ cup of milk with 3 tablespoons of flour in a small saucepan until smooth. Cook over low heat, whisking constantly, until thickened into a smooth paste and the whisk leaves visible lines across the bottom, about 2-3 minutes. ½ cup whole milk, 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour Remove the saucepan from the heat and immediately whisk in the remaining ¾ cup milk.
Creamy Pumpkin Pasta with Sausage and Brown Butter Sage Breadcrumbs
This pumpkin pasta with sausage combines sweet Italian sausage with a silky mascarpone pumpkin sauce and crispy brown butter sage breadcrumbs on top. It's a cozy and satisfying fall meal that makes an easy weeknight dinner, but is special enough to serve to guests. This post may contain affiliate links. Canned pumpkin makes this simple and convenient, but homemade pumpkin puree works too. Browning the Italian sausage before adding the shallot and garlic builds flavor without burning.
The Best Italian Seafood Pasta Recipes
These are all of my favorite Italian seafood pasta recipes inspired by my Sicilian roots and years of cooking seafood at the Jersey Shore. Seafood and pasta were always on our table and these recipes keep that tradition alive. From classic linguine with clams to creamy lobster pasta, this collection includes everything from a quick weeknight recipes to a full on Christmas Eve feast! This post may contain affiliate links.
Italian Apple Cake (Torta di Mele)
This Italian apple cake, also known as torta di mele, has a tender, buttery texture with plenty of thinly sliced apples studded throughout. As it bakes, the apple juices soak into the crumb, keeping the center soft and moist while a layer of sugar forms a crisp, chewy top. Lightly flavored with vanilla, cinnamon, and lemon, this simple apple cake works equally well for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or dessert. This post may contain affiliate links.
Honey Roasted Carrots with Whipped Ricotta and Hazelnuts
These honey roasted carrots transform a simple vegetable into a side dish worthy of your holiday table. Roasted in a garlicky honey glaze until tender and caramelized, they're piled over silky whipped ricotta and finished with crunchy brown butter hazelnuts and thyme. The combination is sweet, tangy, creamy, and nutty, yet surprisingly simple to make for Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, or any special dinner. This post may contain affiliate links.
Baked Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken Meatballs with Roasted Tomatoes
These baked mozzarella stuffed chicken meatballs are juicy and tender, with a molten cheese center and garlicky roasted fresh tomato sauce. The meatballs and sauce finish together in the oven, so there's no frying or separate pot of marinara. Make them ahead for an easy crowd-pleasing weeknight dinner or a lighter Sunday supper. This post may contain affiliate links. Milk-soaked panko keeps the lean chicken tender and juicy.
Italian Lemon Ricotta Cookies
Add the butter, sugar, and lemon zest to a large bowl. Beat with an electric mixer on medium-high speed until light and fluffy, about 4-5 minutes. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed. ½ cup butter, 1 cup granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons lemon zest Add the vanilla and egg, then mix until fully incorporated. 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, 1 egg Add the ricotta, then mix on medium speed until evenly combined. The mixture may look slightly curdled, which is normal.
Grilled Broccoli Caesar Salad
This grilled broccoli Caesar salad is a hearty, smoky twist on the classic, with thick slabs of broccoli that become tender in the center with salty, crispy edges. It's topped with a punchy, creamy homemade Caesar dressing, crunchy rustic breadcrumbs, and nutty Parmigiano. Served warm or at room temperature, this easy grilled broccoli salad makes an impressive side dish or starter for any meal. This post may contain affiliate links.
The Best Italian Seafood Recipes: Pasta, Fish, Shellfish & More
This collection of Italian seafood recipes is a roundup of all my best seafood recipes, including pastas, stews and simple fish and shellfish dishes. Seafood has been part of my life since I was a kid growing up in a Sicilian fishing family at the Jersey Shore. These recipes are all about simplicity, balance, and letting the fresh seafood shine. Seafood has always been part of my life.
How to Make Lobster Risotto - Coley Cooks
Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. Add the lobsters, cover and cook for about 8 minutes, until the shells are bright red but the meat is just barely cooked through. Transfer immediately to a bowl and cover with ice to stop the cooking. 2 live lobsters Remove the tail, claw, and knuckle meat from the shells. Cut the ragged ends from the tails and set aside, then slice the tails in half lengthwise and remove the vein.
How to Make Lobster Stock
Homemade lobster stock turns leftover lobster shells into a rich, savory broth with concentrated lobster flavor and a hint of natural sweetness. Save the shells in your freezer, then use this stock to make lobster bisque, risotto, soups, pasta, and sauces that taste far better than anything made with store-bought broth. It's the secret ingredient that separates a good seafood dish from an unforgettable one! This post may contain affiliate links.
Eggplant Rollatini Recipe (No Frying)
This eggplant rollatini recipe is made with tender roasted eggplant, a creamy ricotta filling, and just enough marinara to bring everything together. There is no breading, frying, or salting required, and the whole dish can be assembled in advance and baked off right before serving. It makes a comforting meatless main course or a hearty side for Sunday dinner. Eggplant rollatini, or involtini, is a popular Italian-American dish that's on menus everywhere here in New Jersey.
The Best Seafood Appetizer Recipes
Seafood appetizers are one of my favorite ways to start a meal, especially for parties and holidays. This collection includes easy hot and cold recipes, make-ahead options and everything from simple crowd-pleasers to impressive starters that let the seafood shine. You'll find plenty of ideas for your next party, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Eve. This post may contain affiliate links. A great seafood appetizer doesn't need to be complicated.
Fried Green Tomatoes
This simple recipe for fried green tomatoes turns firm, unripe tomatoes into a Southern classic with a golden, crispy cornmeal crust and a tender, tangy tomato center. Made with just six basic ingredients, they're easy to fry at home and even better with your favorite dipping sauce. This post may contain affiliate links. Fried green tomatoes are a Southern specialty that I make at least once every year, usually at the end of tomato season.
Grilled Ribeye Steak
This grilled ribeye steak recipe gives you thick, juicy steaks with a smoky, caramelized crust, a buttery-tender center, and just the right amount of char. Starting with quality meat, seasoning ahead of time, grilling over high heat, flipping frequently, and using an instant-read thermometer are the secrets to an incredible steak that rivals anything from a steakhouse. This post may contain affiliate links.
Simple Roasted Eggplant
This easy Italian roasted eggplant recipe results in golden-brown, bite-sized cubes with tender, creamy centers; no salting or frying required. It's a simple, straightforward recipe that adds tons of flavor while staying versatile. Serve it as antipasto or a side dish, pile it onto crostini, sandwiches, or pizza, or add it to pasta and salads. The possibilities are endless! This post may contain affiliate links.
Spicy Long Hot Pesto
This long hot pepper pesto is a spicy twist on classic basil pesto, made with fiery long hot peppers, fresh basil, toasted almonds, and Pecorino Romano. It's creamy, nutty, spicy, and incredibly versatile, whether tossed with pasta, spread on sandwiches, or spooned over grilled meats, seafood, and vegetables. If you've been wondering what to do with long hot peppers, this easy pesto recipe is one of the best ways to use them! This post may contain affiliate links.
10+ Best Pesto Recipes
This collection of pesto recipes ranges from classic Italian basil pesto to fresh, seasonal twists made with herbs, vegetables and more. Whether you're making homemade pesto for pasta, seafood or sandwiches, these versatile sauces are also perfect for making ahead and stashing in the freezer for later. This post may contain affiliate links. When most people think of pesto, they picture pesto Genovese, the classic basil and pine nut sauce from Liguria. But pesto isn't one specific recipe.
Italian Tomato Salad (Insalata di Pomodori)
This marinated Italian tomato salad combines ripe summer tomatoes with red onion, garlic, capers, oregano, and fresh basil in a simple red wine vinaigrette. As the tomatoes marinate, they release their juices to create a flavorful dressing that sets this apart from other tomato salads. It's easy to make ahead and pairs well with just about anything! This post may contain affiliate links.
Basil Butter Recipe (Easy Homemade Compound Butter)
This basil butter recipe is one of the easiest and most delicious ways to preserve fresh basil. Blanching the basil first locks in its bright green color and fresh flavor, then it gets blended with rich butter for a versatile compound butter that freezes beautifully. Spread it on bread, melt it over vegetables, corn on the cob, steak, chicken, seafood, or stir it into pasta for a taste of summer. This post may contain affiliate links.
Grilled Eggplant Caprese Stacks
This grilled eggplant caprese combines tender, charred eggplant with juicy summer tomatoes, creamy fresh mozzarella, basil, and aged balsamic vinegar. It's like eggplant Parmesan meets a classic caprese salad, stacked into an easy Italian summer appetizer, side dish, or light meal that looks as good as it tastes! This post may contain affiliate links.
Spaghetti with Clams and Pistachio Pesto
This pasta with clams and pistachio pesto is a fresh twist on classic spaghetti alle vongole. Tender littleneck clams are tossed with homemade pistachio pesto, white wine, a splash of cream, and perfectly al dente spaghetti for a rich, yet fresh seafood pasta that's ready in about 30 minutes. If you're looking for a unique Italian pasta recipe that's simple enough for a weeknight but impressive enough for guests, this one is hard to beat! This post may contain affiliate links.
Scarpaccia (Tuscan Zucchini Tart)
Scarpaccia is a traditional Italian zucchini tart that's perfect for summer, when zucchini is at its peak. Thinly sliced zucchini is mixed with a light batter, then baked until crisp and golden around the edges with a tender, creamy center. After plenty of recipe testing, this version has the perfect texture and couldn't be easier to make! This post may contain affiliate links. When I set out to make this Scarpaccia di Zucchine, I thought it would be really simple and I'd nail it on my first try.
Grilled Tuna with Lemon Caper Sauce
These grilled tuna steaks are perfectly charred on the outside, buttery and rare in the center, and ready in 15 minutes. A dead simple, Sicilian-inspired sauce made with lemon, capers, and oregano complements the fish without overpowering. If you've ever been intimidated by grilling fresh tuna, this recipe will show you just how easy it is! This post may contain affiliate links.
Best Eggplant Recipes
These are my best eggplant recipes, along with plenty of tips for cooking it perfectly every time! Eggplant has a mild flavor and meaty texture that make it perfect for everything from classic Italian pastas and cheesy baked dishes to smoky dips and simple grilled sides. Eggplant shows up everywhere in Sicilian cooking, which is probably why I love it so much.
Pistachio Semifreddo
This pistachio semifreddo is a creamy, airy, frozen Italian dessert that's surprisingly easy to make at home, no ice cream maker required! It has a melt-in-your-mouth texture that's lighter than ice cream, yet still incredibly luscious, with buttery roasted pistachios in every bite for rich flavor and satisfying crunch. It's an impressive make-ahead dessert that's perfect for summer entertaining! This post may contain affiliate links.
Best Basil Vinaigrette Recipe (Fresh Basil Dressing)
This easy basil vinaigrette is bursting with fresh basil flavor and will add a bright, summery taste to anything you put it on. It's incredibly versatile and is just as good drizzled over grilled chicken and vegetables as it is on a simple mixed green salad. It's made in minutes with just a few simple ingredients and keeps well in the fridge for a few days! This post may contain affiliate links.
Grilled Peaches with Honey Mascarpone and Toasted Hazelnuts
These easy grilled peaches are one of the most delicious ways to enjoy fresh peaches in the summer. Sweet, juicy peaches are grilled until caramelized, then topped with whipped honey mascarpone and toasted hazelnuts. It's a simple yet impressive no-bake dessert that's ready in just 20 minutes! This post may contain affiliate links. I love grilled peaches.
Easy Tomato Galette with Ricotta
This easy tomato crostata recipe combines juicy heirloom tomatoes, creamy ricotta, and flaky pastry into one beautiful summer dish. Also known as a tomato galette, this free-form tart requires no special pan and is much easier to make than a traditional pie. It's one of the best ways to celebrate peak tomato season! This post may contain affiliate links. Every summer, when my garden is overflowing with tomatoes, this is one of the first recipes I make.
24 Summertime Pasta Recipes To Make All Season Long
These are the summer pasta recipes I come back to year after year, from simple Italian classics to easy weeknight dinners that make the most of the season! If there's one thing I look forward to every summer, it's all the incredible produce that starts showing up at the farmers market and overflowing from my garden. Sweet tomatoes, zucchini, basil, lemons, and fresh seafood are at their peak, making it the perfect time of year to create unforgettable meals with just a handful of ingredients.
Crab Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes
Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine according to the package directions until al dente. Reserve 1½ cups of pasta water, then drain. While the pasta cooks, prepare the sauce. 12 ounces linguine Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shallots and cook, stirring frequently, until softened, about 5 minutes.
Pesce all’Acqua Pazza (Fish in Crazy Water)
This classic pesce all'acqua pazza recipe takes a handful of simple ingredients and turns them into an unforgettable meal. Firm white fish fillets gently poach in a light tomato broth with garlic, white wine, olives, and capers, resulting in perfectly tender, flavorful, and juicy fish. It's impressive enough for company, yet simple enough for a weeknight, and can be on your table in 30 minutes. This post may contain affiliate links.
Prosciutto and Melon Pasta Salad
This prosciutto and melon pasta salad turns the classic Italian appetizer into a fun, unique and well-rounded dish. The layered mixture of sweet and salty flavors plus juicy and crispy textures will stand out at any table. It's super easy, can be made ahead and served chilled or at room temperature. Perfect for a summer picnic or barbeque! This post may contain affiliate links. I came up with this salad last summer when I was on a big prosciutto and melon kick and needed a side dish for a BBQ.
Grilled Clams and Corn with Gorgonzola Butter
These buttery grilled clams with sweet corn and Gorgonzola are unlike any grilled clam recipe you've had before. Tender, briny clams are tossed in a rich Gorgonzola compound butter loaded with sweet grilled corn, spicy charred chiles, and plenty of fresh basil. It's an unexpected combination that somehow works perfectly. This unforgettable summer seafood dish is guaranteed to impress! This post may contain affiliate links.
The Best Fresh Tuna Recipes
Fresh tuna is an incredibly simple protein to cook when you start with a great piece of fish. These fresh tuna recipes range from perfectly seared tuna steaks to elegant raw preparations and hearty salads, along with my best chef tips for choosing, preparing and cooking fresh tuna with confidence. This post may contain affiliate links. Look for sustainably sourced tuna with firm, smooth flesh and a vibrant red or deep pink color, depending on the variety.
Grilled Zucchini with Balsamic, Parmesan and Pine Nuts
Looking for the best grilled zucchini recipe? Thick-cut zucchini slices are grilled until lightly charred, then topped with Parmigiano Reggiano, aged balsamic, toasted pine nuts, and fresh basil. It's a simple Italian-inspired side dish that's bursting with summer flavor and ready in just 20 minutes. This post may contain affiliate links. This is a super simple but totally delicious way to serve grilled zucchini in the summer. It's quick, light, and really flavorful.
How to Make Balsamic Reduction
This is the easiest, most straightforward method to make a delicious and syrupy homemade balsamic reduction. With no added sugars or thickeners, it is a delicious and affordable substitute for high-end, traditional aged balsamic vinegar. It lasts for months in the fridge and can be used on everything from roasted veggies and meats to even fresh fruit and desserts! This post may contain affiliate links.
The Best Blackened Shrimp Recipe (Ready in 15 Minutes)
These easy blackened shrimp are tender, flavorful, and perfect for quick weeknight meals. They're quick, versatile, and packed with flavor, making them perfect for everything from tacos and salads to pasta, grain bowls, and more! This post may contain affiliate links. Blackening is a cooking technique that originated in Louisiana and is a staple of Cajun-inspired cooking. It can be used on everything from chicken to fish, but blackened shrimp is arguably the most iconic.
Homemade Blackening Seasoning
Skip the store-bought blends and make your own blackening seasoning at home. This easy recipe combines everyday pantry spices into a bold, flavorful blend that's perfect for blackened shrimp, fish, chicken, and more. It creates that signature smoky crust and packs plenty of Louisiana-inspired flavor, all while giving you complete control over the heat and salt level. This post may contain affiliate links.
9 Lobster Recipes Worth the Splurge
If there's one thing I know, it's lobster. After years of cooking it, eating it and even selling it live from Maine on QVC, I've learned what works. Here you'll find all of my best lobster recipes, along with plenty of tips and tricks to help you cook lobster perfectly every time.
Homemade Stracciatella Cheese
This quick and easy recipe for homemade stracciatella cheese comes together with just two ingredients and 10 minutes! It results in a rich, creamy cheese that's perfect for sandwiches, appetizers, salads, and so much more. No special trip to the Italian market required! This post may contain affiliate links. Everyone knows the inside of burrata is the best part, so why not skip the outer shell altogether and just enjoy the rich, creamy center?
Easy Pickled Green Beans
These pickled green beans are one of the easiest and most rewarding recipes you can make at home. The quick refrigerator pickling method skips canning and blanching, but still results in perfectly crisp, tangy, dilly beans in as little as 8 hours. Just pack a jar with beans, pour over the hot brine, and let them rest in the fridge! This post may contain affiliate links. I love making quick refrigerator pickles and have a few batches in my fridge at all times.
Honey Balsamic Grilled Chicken
This honey balsamic grilled chicken recipe is the easiest and most delicious way to add lots of flavor to your average grilled chicken. It's so simple to make, yet results in stunningly juicy, smoky, sweet, and savory chicken that you can prep in advance with very little effort! This post may contain affiliate links. This is my go-to chicken marinade that I make all the time in the summer.
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