Brigitte Earley Inspired Recipes: A Culinary Journey
Brigitte Earley, though not necessarily a celebrity chef with readily available published recipes in the traditional sense, embodies a lifestyle aesthetic that resonates with many. Her influence lies in creating a comforting, inviting home environment centered around simple, wholesome meals. Think Ina Garten meets a cozy farmhouse kitchen. Therefore, the recipes inspired by her focus on fresh ingredients, approachable techniques, and ultimately, food that nourishes the body and soul.
This article explores several recipes inspired by the ‘Brigitte Earley’ ethos. They are designed to be easy to follow, satisfying to make, and, most importantly, delicious to eat.
## Part 1: Simple Suppers – Weeknight Wins
One of the hallmarks of a ‘Brigitte Earley’ style meal is its simplicity. These recipes are perfect for busy weeknights when you want something homemade without spending hours in the kitchen.
### Recipe 1: Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken with Root Vegetables
This recipe is a classic for a reason. The bright lemon and fragrant herbs elevate simple roasted chicken to something special, and the root vegetables provide a hearty, comforting side dish all in one pan.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 (3-4 pound) whole chicken
* 1 lemon, halved
* 4 sprigs fresh rosemary
* 4 sprigs fresh thyme
* 4 cloves garlic, minced
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
* 1 pound carrots, peeled and chopped
* 1 pound potatoes, peeled and cubed
* 1 pound sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
* 1 large onion, quartered
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Chicken:** Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Rinse the chicken inside and out and pat dry with paper towels. This is crucial for crispy skin. Season the cavity with salt and pepper. Stuff the cavity with one lemon half, 2 sprigs of rosemary, and 2 sprigs of thyme.
2. **Season and Oil:** In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Squeeze the juice from the remaining lemon half over the chicken.
3. **Prepare the Vegetables:** In a large bowl, toss the carrots, potatoes, sweet potatoes, and onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Arrange the vegetables in a single layer in a large roasting pan.
4. **Roast the Chicken:** Place the chicken on top of the vegetables in the roasting pan. Roast for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
5. **Rest and Serve:** Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken. Carve the chicken and serve with the roasted vegetables.
**Tips and Variations:**
* For extra crispy skin, pat the chicken completely dry before seasoning and roasting. You can also broil the chicken for the last few minutes of cooking time, but watch it carefully to prevent burning.
* Add other root vegetables like parsnips, turnips, or Brussels sprouts to the roasting pan.
* Substitute different herbs like sage or oregano for the rosemary and thyme.
* Drizzle balsamic glaze over the roasted vegetables for a touch of sweetness.
### Recipe 2: One-Pan Pasta with Sausage and Broccoli
This recipe is a true one-pan wonder, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Everything cooks together in one pan, minimizing cleanup and maximizing flavor.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
* 1 head broccoli, cut into florets
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
* 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
* 4 cups chicken broth
* 1 pound pasta (such as penne, rigatoni, or rotini)
* 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Brown the Sausage:** In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, brown the sausage over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain off any excess grease.
2. **Add Vegetables:** Add the broccoli florets, chopped onion, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onion is softened and the broccoli is slightly tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. **Add Tomatoes and Broth:** Stir in the red pepper flakes (if using), crushed tomatoes, and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
4. **Add Pasta:** Add the pasta to the skillet. Make sure the pasta is submerged in the liquid. If not, add a little more chicken broth or water.
5. **Cook the Pasta:** Cover the skillet and cook until the pasta is cooked through and the liquid has been absorbed, about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Check the pasta for doneness before serving. The time depends on the pasta type.
6. **Finish and Serve:** Stir in the Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use different types of sausage, such as sweet Italian sausage or chorizo, for a different flavor profile.
* Substitute other vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach, for the broccoli.
* Add a splash of cream or half-and-half at the end for a richer sauce.
* Top with fresh basil or parsley for added flavor and freshness.
### Recipe 3: Sheet Pan Salmon with Asparagus and Potatoes
Another easy one-pan meal, this recipe features healthy salmon, tender asparagus, and flavorful potatoes. It’s a quick and satisfying dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
**Ingredients:**
* 1.5 pounds salmon fillets, skin on or off
* 1 pound baby potatoes, halved or quartered if large
* 1 pound asparagus, trimmed
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 lemon, sliced
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 teaspoon dried dill
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Potatoes:** Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the baby potatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them in a single layer on a large baking sheet.
2. **Roast the Potatoes:** Roast the potatoes for 15 minutes, or until they are slightly tender.
3. **Add Asparagus and Salmon:** Toss the asparagus with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, minced garlic, dried dill, salt, and pepper. Add the asparagus to the baking sheet with the potatoes. Place the salmon fillets on the baking sheet as well.
4. **Top with Lemon:** Arrange lemon slices over the salmon fillets.
5. **Roast:** Roast for another 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork and the asparagus is tender-crisp. The internal temperature of the salmon should reach 145°F (63°C).
6. **Serve:** Serve immediately.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use different vegetables, such as broccoli, green beans, or zucchini, instead of asparagus.
* Add other herbs and spices, such as paprika, garlic powder, or onion powder, to the salmon and vegetables.
* Drizzle with a balsamic glaze or lemon-herb sauce before serving.
* Use different types of fish, such as cod or halibut, instead of salmon.
## Part 2: Comfort Food Classics – Elevated
Brigitte Earley’s style embraces comfort food, but with a focus on quality ingredients and thoughtful preparation. These recipes take classic comfort dishes and elevate them to something truly special.
### Recipe 4: Creamy Tomato Soup with Grilled Cheese Croutons
A classic comfort food pairing gets a gourmet twist with homemade tomato soup and grilled cheese croutons. This is the perfect lunch or light dinner on a chilly day.
**Ingredients (Tomato Soup):**
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
* 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
* 4 cups vegetable broth
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
* 1/4 cup heavy cream
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Ingredients (Grilled Cheese Croutons):**
* 4 slices bread (such as sourdough or brioche)
* 2 tablespoons butter, softened
* 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
**Instructions (Tomato Soup):**
1. **Sauté Vegetables:** Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. **Add Tomatoes and Broth:** Stir in the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a simmer.
3. **Simmer:** Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
4. **Blend:** Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, carefully transfer the soup to a regular blender and blend until smooth (be careful when blending hot liquids).
5. **Stir in Cream:** Stir in the heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
**Instructions (Grilled Cheese Croutons):**
1. **Prepare Croutons:** Spread butter on one side of each slice of bread. Sprinkle cheddar cheese on the unbuttered side of two slices of bread. Top with the remaining two slices of bread, butter-side up.
2. **Grill:** Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Place the sandwiches in the skillet and cook until golden brown and the cheese is melted, about 2-3 minutes per side. Flip gently.
3. **Cut into Croutons:** Cut the grilled cheese sandwiches into small cubes.
**To Serve:**
Ladle the tomato soup into bowls. Top with the grilled cheese croutons and serve immediately.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the soup for extra creaminess.
* Garnish with fresh basil or parsley.
* Use different types of cheese for the grilled cheese croutons, such as Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack.
* Add a pinch of sugar to the soup to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
### Recipe 5: Shepherd’s Pie with Sweet Potato Topping
This comfort food classic gets a healthy and flavorful twist with a sweet potato topping. It’s a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a cold winter evening.
**Ingredients (Filling):**
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 pound ground lamb or beef
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 carrots, peeled and diced
* 2 celery stalks, diced
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 teaspoon dried thyme
* 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
* 1 cup beef broth
* 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
* 1 cup frozen peas
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Ingredients (Sweet Potato Topping):**
* 3 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
* 1/4 cup milk
* 2 tablespoons butter
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions (Filling):**
1. **Brown the Meat:** Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground lamb or beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
2. **Add Vegetables:** Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery to the skillet. Cook until the onion is softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic, dried thyme, and dried rosemary and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. **Add Broth and Worcestershire Sauce:** Stir in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a simmer.
4. **Simmer:** Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.
5. **Add Peas:** Stir in the frozen peas. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
**Instructions (Sweet Potato Topping):**
1. **Cook Sweet Potatoes:** Place the sweet potatoes in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil and cook until the sweet potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a fork.
2. **Mash Sweet Potatoes:** Drain the sweet potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the milk and butter and mash until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
**Assemble and Bake:**
1. **Assemble:** Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Pour the meat filling into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. **Top with Sweet Potatoes:** Spread the mashed sweet potatoes evenly over the meat filling.
3. **Bake:** Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the sweet potato topping is lightly browned and heated through.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add other vegetables to the filling, such as mushrooms, corn, or green beans.
* Use a different type of meat, such as ground turkey or chicken, instead of lamb or beef.
* Top with shredded cheese for the last few minutes of baking time.
* Add a splash of cream or sour cream to the sweet potato topping for extra richness.
### Recipe 6: Mac and Cheese with Crispy Breadcrumb Topping
Elevate the classic mac and cheese with a creamy cheese sauce and a crispy breadcrumb topping. This is the ultimate comfort food indulgence.
**Ingredients (Mac and Cheese):**
* 1 pound elbow macaroni
* 1/2 cup butter
* 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
* 4 cups milk
* 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
* 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese (optional, but recommended)
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* Pinch of nutmeg
**Ingredients (Breadcrumb Topping):**
* 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
* 2 tablespoons butter, melted
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
**Instructions (Mac and Cheese):**
1. **Cook Macaroni:** Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. **Make the Roux:** While the macaroni is cooking, melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk constantly until smooth and golden, about 1-2 minutes. This mixture is called a roux.
3. **Add Milk:** Gradually whisk in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
4. **Add Cheese:** Reduce heat to low and stir in the cheddar cheese and Gruyere cheese (if using) until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
5. **Combine:** Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to combine.
**Instructions (Breadcrumb Topping):**
1. **Combine:** In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, melted butter, and Parmesan cheese.
**Assemble and Bake:**
1. **Assemble:** Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Pour the mac and cheese into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. **Top with Breadcrumbs:** Sprinkle the breadcrumb topping evenly over the mac and cheese.
3. **Bake:** Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the breadcrumb topping is golden brown and the mac and cheese is bubbly.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, Gouda, or Havarti.
* Add cooked bacon, ham, or sausage to the mac and cheese.
* Stir in vegetables, such as broccoli, cauliflower, or spinach.
* Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce for a little heat.
## Part 3: Baking and Sweet Treats – Simple Pleasures
No ‘Brigitte Earley’ inspired home is complete without the aroma of freshly baked goods. These recipes focus on simple, comforting treats that are perfect for sharing with loved ones.
### Recipe 7: Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies
This is a no-fuss, foolproof recipe for classic chocolate chip cookies. They are soft, chewy, and packed with chocolate chips – the perfect treat for any occasion.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
* 3/4 cup granulated sugar
* 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
* 2 large eggs
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon baking soda
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 2 cups chocolate chips
**Instructions:**
1. **Cream Butter and Sugars:** Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
2. **Add Eggs and Vanilla:** Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
3. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
4. **Gradually Add Dry Ingredients:** Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. **Stir in Chocolate Chips:** Stir in the chocolate chips.
6. **Drop by Rounded Tablespoons:** Drop by rounded tablespoons onto ungreased baking sheets.
7. **Bake:** Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are still slightly soft.
8. **Cool:** Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use different types of chocolate chips, such as milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or white chocolate.
* Add chopped nuts, such as walnuts, pecans, or almonds, to the batter.
* Add a pinch of sea salt to the tops of the cookies before baking for a salty-sweet flavor.
* Chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking to prevent the cookies from spreading too much.
### Recipe 8: Apple Crumble
This simple apple crumble is a comforting and delicious dessert that’s perfect for fall. The warm, spiced apples are topped with a buttery, crumbly topping.
**Ingredients (Filling):**
* 6 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
* 1/4 cup granulated sugar
* 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
* 1 tablespoon lemon juice
**Ingredients (Crumble Topping):**
* 1 cup all-purpose flour
* 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
* 1/2 cup rolled oats
* 1/2 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces
**Instructions (Filling):**
1. **Combine Filling Ingredients:** Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Toss to coat.
2. **Transfer to Baking Dish:** Transfer the apple mixture to a 9-inch baking dish.
**Instructions (Crumble Topping):**
1. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a separate bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, and rolled oats.
2. **Cut in Butter:** Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
**Assemble and Bake:**
1. **Top with Crumble:** Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the apple filling.
2. **Bake:** Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender and bubbly.
3. **Cool:** Let the crumble cool slightly before serving.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use different types of apples, such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji.
* Add chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to the crumble topping.
* Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for serving.
* Add a splash of apple cider or apple brandy to the apple filling for extra flavor.
### Recipe 9: Banana Bread
This moist and flavorful banana bread is a classic for a reason. It’s easy to make and perfect for using up overripe bananas. It’s also a great grab-and-go breakfast or snack.
**Ingredients:**
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
* 3/4 cup granulated sugar
* 2 large eggs
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 3 ripe bananas, mashed
* 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon baking soda
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
**Instructions:**
1. **Cream Butter and Sugar:** Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
2. **Add Eggs and Vanilla:** Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
3. **Add Mashed Bananas:** Stir in the mashed bananas.
4. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. **Gradually Add Dry Ingredients:** Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
6. **Pour into Loaf Pan:** Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
7. **Bake:** Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. **Cool:** Let the banana bread cool in the loaf pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add chopped nuts, such as walnuts, pecans, or almonds, to the batter.
* Add chocolate chips to the batter.
* Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter.
* Drizzle with a glaze made from powdered sugar and milk after baking.
These recipes, inspired by the ‘Brigitte Earley’ philosophy, emphasize simple, wholesome ingredients and easy-to-follow techniques. They aim to bring comfort and joy to your table, creating a warm and inviting home environment centered around delicious, homemade food. Enjoy the process of creating and sharing these meals with your loved ones!