Spring

Chocolate Chip Cookie Cake

Chocolate Chip Cookie Cake

When my latest edition of Bake from Scratch magazine arrived, this was the first recipe I wanted to bake. In fact, I was eager to give it a try as it was exactly the kind of sweet treat we enjoy. It is such a hit…

Hen of the Woods Quesadillas with Avocado Salsa

Hen of the Woods Quesadillas with Avocado Salsa

Fond memories of my trip to Mexico this spring still loom large, especially recalling the many flavors we feasted on during time in Oaxaca and Mexico City. With thanks to my friend Ruth Alegria who conducts culinary adventures in Mexico City and beyond, we knew…

Avocado and Citrus Salad with Chile-Lime Dressing

Avocado and Citrus Salad with Chile-Lime Dressing

We usually ease up on our salad consumption during the winter months, so when spring comes around it’s a pleasure to tuck into a refreshing salad with our meals. The farmers at my local market are beginning to arrive with spring green offerings, and many…

Quick Soda Bread with Whole Wheat and Walnuts

Quick Soda Bread with Whole Wheat and Walnuts

St. Patrick’s Day is just around the corner and the American tradition of corned beef and cabbage will be making an appearance on our table. I say “American” tradition as I’m told this dish isn’t served at Irish homes on the holiday. Growing up my…

Strawberry Brioche Bread Pudding

Strawberry Brioche Bread Pudding

The genesis of this summertime dessert happened about a month ago when a student of my husband’s gifted us with a loaf of homemade challah and a jar of homemade strawberry jam (Thank you “Y”!). After devouring several slices simply toasted with butter and the…

Spanish-Inspired Chopped Salad with Shrimp

Spanish-Inspired Chopped Salad with Shrimp

By now you’ve rightly noticed I am a huge fan of Spanish food. It started in the late-90’s when I had a two-week work assignment based in Madrid and environs. I was an immediate admirer of the foods after feasting on all manner of dishes,…

Chocolate Pudding Cake

Chocolate Pudding Cake

Is enduring, fudge-y pudding cake on your radar? If not, you are in for a chocolatey treat. As the cake bakes, a rich fudge-y sauce forms on the bottom of the pan, leaving a light, brownie-like cake atop. It’s a marvel to watch as it…

Smoked Salmon and Asparagus Mini-Frittatas

Smoked Salmon and Asparagus Mini-Frittatas

Springtime means brunch time for many of us. And finally (Finally!) we are slated for dry and sunny days to gather with family and friends. Even if it’s for just hubby and me, I often make a frittata for our Sunday brunch. I make it…

Chicken Smothered in Onion and Mustard Sauce

Chicken Smothered in Onion and Mustard Sauce

Chilly, rainy days are still with us so hearty, warming meals are what’s on our table. This main dish comes together fairly quickly for a weeknight but can also be presented for a celebratory table.  (Especially if you add a few sprigs or slices of…

Parmesan Rosemary Shortbread

Parmesan Rosemary Shortbread

These savory shortbread cookies would be right at home on your cheese board where I’d also nestle a few roasted almonds nearby.  We enjoy these from lunch time to cocktail time, anytime the mood strikes. And their salty-sweetness goes dangerously well with a flute of…