Most of the recipes I post here are tweaked versions of someone else’s creativity. But this one is the result of several kitchen experiments! I was trying to replicate a super-expensive packaged nut butter that was costing me an embarrassing amount to order and have shipped. I have to say… my Power Nut Butter is better. It’s full of good-for-you seeds and nuts (and no preservatives), and it’s far less expensive! Continue Reading →
Are you asking “where’s the syrup in this picture?” None needed. Trust me. These three ingredient Banana Pancakes are perfectly sweet and perfectly healthy. In fact, I’ve yet to eat one with a fork. Why? Because I’m usually grabbing one to eat – by hand – on my way somewhere. Continue Reading →
My current morning routine includes a cup of my absolutely-necessary-and-don’t-even-try-to-reason-with-me-until-I’ve-had-it coffee. And one of these Whole Grain Bran Muffins. I’ll savor one while I linger over “quiet time” to start the day – or eat one en route to an early morning meeting.
A recent weekend found both Husband and me feeling a bit under the weather – coupled with a few of those gray days where the only thing that sounds good is a big blanket, a good book, and the occasional movie. And of course, Chicken Noodle Soup.
One of the many benefits of having a well-stocked – and well-organized, freezer {more on that soon!} is that you can pull together a healthy dinner quickly, without having to rely on pre-packaged foods that most likely aren’t as tasty or good-for-you as you can make yourself. And thanks to a little extra effort most every time I’m in the kitchen, I had everything I needed to make a great tasting soup, without bundling up and dragging myself to the store. Continue Reading →
I had bragged one too many times about my marathon cooking sessions, after which I’d have a totally stocked freezer, full of meals and side dishes to feed Husband and I for a month. My girlfriends loved the concept, but couldn’t see themselves doing it. So the idea for a meal-swap party was launched.
The plan was for each of us to make a single meal, in bulk. We’d make enough so that the other six friends would each receive a main dish that serves 4. All of us would have half a dozen new dishes to try – ready to freeze, reheat and serve.
It’s a salad you can eat with your hands. My mom calls these “little boats.” I call them a perfect party food. Bursting with fresh flavor, Endive with Blue Cheese, Orange & Walnuts makes a perfect addition to a cocktail or dinner party. Besides offering a lighter option to the usual cheese and crackers, it’s a great way to serve the salad to guests while you’re still working on dinner.
Fresh orange, honey-toasted walnuts and blue cheese sit on a Belgian endive leaf, drizzled with a balsamic-orange reduction and sprinkled with fresh chives and salt and pepper. Continue Reading →
I can’t say enough about this humble vegetable. I love pasta, but this squash is a delicious {and nutritious} substitute for noodles in a lot of dishes – including spaghetti and meatballs. And, it easily stands alone as a side dish with little more than some sautéed shallots and seasoning. This Spaghetti Squash with Parmesan and Fresh Herbs is a great example.
If you’re trying to cut back on carbs, or if you just want to have some healthy alternatives to your typical side dishes, you won’t find a more versatile vegetable. Continue Reading →
One of my goals is to try at least one new recipe each week. And not just to stave off meal-time boredom. I figure it also justifies the growing list of food magazines I subscribe to! Sometimes these experiments fall flat, but sometimes they’re a hit on the first try. Like last night’s Chicken Piccata…
When my friend Kasey served this Summer Squash & Red Quinoa Salad, it was a “get out the cell phone and take a picture” moment. Besides that, it was delicious!
I don’t know about you, but by this time in the summer, I’ve had enough potato- or 7-layer salad to last me awhile. I want something different! Mix it up a little! And how about something that’s healthy, fairly simple to throw together, and gorgeous? Is that too much to ask?
I grew up eating mostly meat and potatoes {Nebraska does that to a girl}. My mom is a fabulous cook, but the closest we ever got to “ethnic” food was Chicken Chow Mein with those crunchy La Choy noodles on top (correct me if I’m wrong Mom!).
Then came my first “real job” and business travel. And expense accounts.
At a client dinner at some swank Vegas restaurant, a colleague – eager to help broaden my food horizons, insisted I try an oyster. Let’s just say that my “pharyngeal reflex” response is seared into my memory (and probably the client’s as well), and I STILL can’t get up close and personal with shellfish of any kind.
So while I tend to stay in my comfort zone with food items {except for that time I ate crickets in Mexico}, I grew to love experimenting with different flavors and cuisines. And one of my favorites is Thai food.
I'm glad you stopped by ... pull up a stool, grab your favorite beverage, and let's make something delicious!
