The photos in the post were taken by Miss Megan. Thanks!
This year, I chose five items off my Life List as New Year’s Resolutions. While a few were difficult, I also selected some that would be simple and fun. Throwing a champagne brunch was on my list, and let me tell you, I’ve never been more excited to check a resolution off my list.
There was talk of Kardashians, movies and JT. It was a good day. I have a really fun group of friends.
Although I cook a lot, yeast gives me a lot of anxiety. I’m always watching it unsure if it’s doing what it’s supposed to. Did it rise enough? Was the milk warm enough? Is my yeast old? Did I use the right kind of yeast?
For someone who bakes regularly, I’m kind of a hot mess when it comes to yeast.
This last month, I tackled cinnamon rolls, and it was much of the same. Lots of uncertainty went into these rolls, but guess what? They turned out really well.
I used a recipe I found on Smitten Kitchen that is originally from Orangette. With that pedigree, I had a feeling it was a good place to start. Neither of those bloggers has ever failed me. Continue reading
I’ve been a fan of the blog Smitten Kitchen for a long time. Deb’s recipes are always fantastic. Her attention to detail and quest to find the perfect version of a meal means that any time I cook her food I’m floored with the fantastic results.
When I heard she was coming out with a cookbook, I waited and waited. And waited. It was released at the end of October this year, and I snatched it up immediately.
Let me start by saying, the photography is beautiful. The book is divided into seven sections: Breakfast; Sandwiches, Tarts, and Pizzas; The Main Dish: Vegetarian; The Main Dish: Seafood, Poultry, and Meat; Sweets; and Party Snacks and Drinks. I tried to make something from each, but missed a few.
I ended up made the following recipes:
In particular, I liked the crispy treats, kale salad and bean ragout. Continue reading
Zucchini is one my favorite summer vegetables. At our house, we eat it at least once a week in warmer months. Typically, I use this recipe from Smitten Kitchen, which is easy and delicious. Although it’s always a hit, I wanted to switch it up a bit. Using some of the same ingredients, zucchini, parmesan and almonds, I made my own version. The result is comforting and a little spicy. Better yet, it comes together in around 10 minutes. We had ours with tilapia, which meant I had dinner on the table in about 20 minutes…..not too shabby for a weeknight week. Continue reading
With Memorial Day quickly approaching, I have backyard barbecues on my mind. I had planned to start a grilling series this week, but for some reason, my outdoor grilling mojo is a little off. Two, failed burgers and one empty gas tank later, I have absolutely nothing to share with you on grilling this week.
So instead of the planned grilling tips, I thought it would be nice to share some potluck friendly recipes. Just a few favorites that I think would be great for a long, lazy weekend or impromptu bbq. I’ve made all of them before and have had success with each.
Deviled Eggs with Basil Aioli and Capers
Artichoke, Chickpea and Prosciutto Pasta Salad
Strawberry, Almond and Goat Cheese Salad
Mango Slaw with Cashews and Mint
Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies
Raspberry Buttermilk Cake (also lovely with strawberries)
What will you be eating this Memorial Day weekend?
