As January comes to a close, time seems to have flown by incredibly fast. For me, winter has always been the best season for cooking. There’s something deeply comforting about spending time in my kitchen, and with Cook it taking care of the shopping and organizing, it’s even more delightful. This week, my choices reflect the season perfectly: indulgent, creamy, cheesy, and comforting recipes. Let me take you on a tour of what’s in my Cook it box this week, showcasing how each dish embodies the essence of winter coziness.

Warm orzo and cauliflower Salad with toasted almonds, spinach, zucchini and a creamy orange mustard vinaigrette

Discover a meal salad that is as delicious as it is nutritious: the Warm Orzo and Cauliflower Salad. This dish features cauliflower, a vegetable I love for its versatility and taste. This salad is wonderfully combined with zucchini and spinach, blending textures and flavours. The richness of this salad also lies in its toppings. Roasted almonds and sunflower seeds add a pleasant crunch, while the creamy orange and mustard dressing coats each ingredient with a tangy sweetness, harmoniously binding all the components together. Not only is this salad a treat for the taste buds, but it also offers exceptional value for money. At only $9.90 per serving, it leaves room in the budget for some extra treats from the Pantry. Perfect for a balanced lunch or dinner, this warm orzo and cauliflower salad promises a gustatory experience that is as satisfying as it is healthy.

Tomme aux fleurs Cheese pizza with bacon, red onions and thyme

When a pizza enters the Cook it menu, I simply can’t resist. This pizza, topped with cheese, bacon, red onions, and thyme, is a must-try. Drawing inspiration from the Alsatian Flammekueche, it blends sour cream, smoked bacon, onions, and thyme. However, the addition of an exceptional cheese, in partnership with Les Fromages d’Europe: Tomme aux Fleurs, truly sets this pizza apart. This Austrian pressed cheese, matured with dried flowers, introduces floral and cheesy flavours. The petals infused in the Tomme create a harmony of floral and cheesy notes that turn each bite into an authentic culinary experience.

Green Pea risotto verde with spinach, pistachios, basil and fried mozzarella

The Cook it’s Pea Risotto Verde is a true feast for the senses, perfect for vegetarians and anyone looking for a comforting dish after a day of skiing. With its harmonious blend of spinach and peas, this risotto recipe is a symphony of greenery and fresh flavours. Pistachios add a crunchy and rich touch, excitingly contrasting the vegetables’ softness. But the real star of the show is the fried mozzarella. Bocconcini cheeses, coated in a crispy, golden breadcrumb, are a taste revelation. Their melting interior contrasts beautifully with the crunchy exterior, bringing a ‘’restaurant-quality’’ dimension to the dish. This risotto is more than just a vegetarian dish; it’s a culinary experience that combines indulgence and comfort.

In our Pantry this week, you’ll discover several exciting new additions. One of the team’s favourites: Noshbox Cookies, a Cook it exclusive. These New York-style, ready-to-bake cookies have quickly won over our taste buds. We offer two exquisite varieties: Birthday Cake and Triple Chocolate. Additionally, we’ve prepared a special section for Valentine’s Day where you’ll find a selection of chocolates and sweets, gift ideas, desserts, and even greeting cards. It’s the perfect opportunity to spoil your loved ones (or yourself!) with sweet treats and special attention to celebrate this day of love.

Constance Tassé-Gagnon

Deputy Director of Product and Partnerships

Constance, a true culinary globetrotter, always on the lookout for the latest gastronomic trends. With 15 years of experience as a cook and pastry chef in Montreal’s gourmet restaurants, she excels in the art of dining and is always ready to host a memorable gathering. Her heart belongs to traditional Quebec cuisine, but her soul tirelessly explores flavors from around the world. Follow her for invaluable culinary tips and extraordinary taste discoveries that will make your next event an absolute success!