Spicy Chicken Teriyaki Bowls

Bowls are, as the kids say these days, the new hotness. I attended my youngest sister’s college graduation this past weekend. While joyfully celebrating, something very real was obvious: My parent’s generation still considers me young, while my sister’s generation certainly considers me the opposite. I was straddling the fence between “oh, you’re still young,” and, “is your old sisterContinueContinue reading “Spicy Chicken Teriyaki Bowls”

Maple and Harissa Roasted Carrots

  It’s an Autumn Saturday morning in Chicago. As I sit here and type this, I’ve already seen the weather go from dark and cold, to windy and pouring rain. Now, its slightly breezy and a lovely 70 degrees F and sunshine. Why am I telling you this? Well, for one thing, my fiance isContinueContinue reading “Maple and Harissa Roasted Carrots”

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’sContinueContinue reading “Lazy Ravioli Lasagna”

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 withContinueContinue 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 onContinueContinue reading “Crock Pot Skinny Mashed Potatoes”

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 andContinueContinue reading “Sticky Bourbon Chicken and Broccoli”

Crock Pot Chicken Tikka Masala and Cilantro Yogurt Sauce

  This dish accomplishes three ever-important objectives. 1) Delicious taste. 2) The kitchen is filled with a wonderfully unique and enticing aroma. 3) Easy to make.  Three objectives met. One adjective needed. Magical. Indian food is all about the spices. While there are numerous spices to choose from, I brought this particular taste of IndiaContinueContinue reading “Crock Pot Chicken Tikka Masala and Cilantro Yogurt Sauce”

Spinach and Cheesy Chicken Roll-Ups

  Admit it.  Unless it’s fried, chicken is pretty boring.  Or as I like to say, BOOORING. I can’t help myself from going off on a little Emily side tangent here: Using the proper pronunciation of the word ‘BOOORING’ is always key. Make sure your voice is low, and then say those two words.  BOW,ContinueContinue reading “Spinach and Cheesy Chicken Roll-Ups”

Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad with Bacon, Almonds, and Pecorino

  I’ve eaten this salad three days in a row.  Here’s why. Unique texture, delicious taste, and high levels of vitamins and nutrients.  You know I love versatility in dish, especially in a salad. I am, indeed, a salad girl.  It’s easy to be when cheese and bacon are involved, right?   Well, it’s justContinueContinue reading “Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad with Bacon, Almonds, and Pecorino”

How to Freeze Homemade Basil Pesto

  Are you reluctantly saying goodbye to summer?  Here’s my perception. Whip up a large batch of homemade pesto.  Then freeze it.  IN ICE CUBE TRAYS!! (yes, that deserved the double exclamation point).  We all love the smell and taste of fresh basil pesto.  We need it during the non summer months.  That said, here’sContinueContinue reading “How to Freeze Homemade Basil Pesto”