Greek Tortellini Pasta Salad with Chicken

  Some of the best memories are made in flip flops ... while eating this dish. Summer's back.  Time to make Greek tortellini pasta salad.  Here's my update on the classic Greek salad. I mixed it up by adding cheese tortellini, shredded chicken, and a couple other tid bits.  I've always got cheese tortellini onContinue reading "Greek Tortellini Pasta Salad with Chicken"

Sausage and Veggie Breakfast Strata

  What's my key to hosting brunch, you ask? Everything's made and prepped in advance. With this in mind, here's my go-to brunch recipe - Sausage and Veggie Breakfast Strata.  This dish inherently abides by my "made in advance" rule.  You're literally SUPPOSED to make and prepare it the night before.  For those unfamiliar withContinue reading "Sausage and Veggie Breakfast Strata"

Lazy Ravioli Lasagna

  So, you're in a precarious "situation" with the mafia?  (It happens ... I guess)  Cooking up a tasty lasagna would really ease some tensions, right?  Problem is, you've got neither the time nor the fresh ingredients for a proper dish. Lasagna noodles, ricotta cheese filling, the timely/messy process of layering of everything together?  Here'sContinue reading "Lazy Ravioli Lasagna"

Stove-top Gnocchi (not mac) and Cheese with Peas

Fun enough for the kids.  Just grown up enough for the adult palate as well.  So simple to make.  Ready for it?  Sure you are.   This is a fun twist on macaroni and cheese.  I like creating an opportunity to introduce children to new foods and expand their palates, while simultaneously eating something with a senseContinue reading "Stove-top Gnocchi (not mac) and Cheese with Peas"

Lamb Shanks with Parmesan Polenta and Mushrooms

Time to talk lamb shanks?  Why, yes. Yes it is. From the lower section of the leg, lamb shanks are a full-flavored cut of meat.  They do, however, require a bit of love and attention to bring out their full potential.  These shanks are first browned in veg oil.  This gives them color while enhancingContinue reading "Lamb Shanks with Parmesan Polenta and Mushrooms"

Smoked Trout Salad

  It's been said before. It's awfully true ... Food is memories. When I was growing up, many a Friday in the winter meant one thing to me.  Roooooad trip!  We'd get out of school at 2:30 pm.  By 3:00 pm, the car was packed and we were heading north.  Skis and snowboards on theContinue reading "Smoked Trout Salad"

Roasted Tomato and Arugula Pasta Salad

  I've got roasted garlic and tomatoes, and I've got feta cheese, and I've got arugula, and I've got artichokes, and I've got a deliciously lemony dressing.  And, you may partake with me on one condition; that you listen to (read) my short rant about Spring weather in Chicago.  Those of you not dealing withContinue reading "Roasted Tomato and Arugula Pasta Salad"

Crock Pot Skinny Mashed Potatoes

  I realize it's been been some time since my last post.  I apologize for all the grief and anxiety that you've no doubt been suffering from due to this absence.  So, accept my apology, dry your tears, and let's get goin' again.  Game on! I'm reminded of a wise passage I once read onContinue reading "Crock Pot Skinny Mashed Potatoes"

Tequila Lime “Margarita” Chicken Wings and Southwest Ranch Dipping Sauce

  Wasted away again in Margarita-wing-ville ...   I know, a Jimmy Buffet reference. Gimmie a break, though.  It's Sunday afternoon, I've got a bit of writers block going on, and I just made wings that literally taste like a top shelf margarita. (And I just got a manicure ... see those pretty nails?)  Continue reading "Tequila Lime “Margarita” Chicken Wings and Southwest Ranch Dipping Sauce"

Sticky Bourbon Chicken and Broccoli

  Take-out-fake-out! Unlike my last post, I can't claim to have coined the above phrase.  I can claim a wonderful recipe worthy of staying home in your cozies, and far better than your local take out.  I can also claim a sauce that you'll quickly become addicted to.  Let's roll.   This bourbon chicken andContinue reading "Sticky Bourbon Chicken and Broccoli"