Watermelon, Feta and Mint Bites

The first official weekend of summer is finally upon us. Take a deep breath and let the beauty of that first sentence sink in … aahhhhh. Now, cube watermelon, crumble feta cheese, tear mint leaves, and assemble this lovely and straightforward gem of a summer dish. Wonderful as an appetizer or a salad. If you’re making thisContinueContinue reading “Watermelon, Feta and Mint Bites”

Lebanese Lamb Kufta Kebabs and Tabbouleh Salad

I grew up with a Lebanese Mother who loved to cook.  Her Lebanese feast ranks #1 on my “If I was stranded on a deserted island with one meal, what meal would it be?” list. So, with that in mind, go grab plenty of parsley and lamb and let’s get crackin’ on a few keyContinueContinue reading “Lebanese Lamb Kufta Kebabs and Tabbouleh Salad”

Last-Minute Appetizer Recipes To The Rescue

Looking for a last-minute appetizer to serve at your upcoming holiday party?  I’ve got you covered. These recipes will keep your guests happy and make it seem like you are the ultimate hostess. Because you are! Happy Thanksgiving! Andouille Pigs in a Blanket with Chutney Mustard Dipping Sauce Baked Brie with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and ThymeContinueContinue reading “Last-Minute Appetizer Recipes To The Rescue”

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”

Kale Salad with Breadcrumb Croutons

  I’m guilty of it. I’ll readily admit. I’m guilty of eating kale multiple days a week. I love it in my Fall Quinoa and Kale Salad, Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad with Bacon, Almonds, and Pecorino, and Kale and Corn Salad with Basil Lime Vinaigrette.  All incredibly tasty, satisfying, and hearty. But just because kaleContinueContinue reading “Kale Salad with Breadcrumb Croutons”

Sesame-Ginger Soba Noodle Salad with Chicken

I’m writing this at 2pm on Friday of Labor Day weekend. We’ve all mailed it in at this point, right? We’re done doing “actual’ work. So, in the spirit of Labor Day, I give you this fantastic dish. Ideal for a lazy summer weekend afternoon. Sesame-Ginger Soba Noodle Salad with Chicken.  Vibrantly flavored, full of crispContinueContinue reading “Sesame-Ginger Soba Noodle Salad with Chicken”

Heirloom Tomato and Burrata Caprese Salad

  “It is the sweet, simple things of life which are the real ones after all.” Laura Ingalls Wilder was right on. The freshness of your ingredients – heirloom tomatoes, burrata cheese, fresh basil – make this simple salad so beautiful and delicious. Ideal for late summer gatherings with friends or family.  Pair with aContinueContinue reading “Heirloom Tomato and Burrata Caprese Salad”

Steamed Mussels with Wine, Garlic and Parsley

  I don’t cook mussels at home often enough. But, I did this past Friday. It was glorious. Elegant, affordable, readily available, and a breeze to make. From the fridge to dinner table, the mussels are ready to devour in just 20 minutes. I paired this batch with white wine, garlic, parsley and lemon. Obviously,ContinueContinue reading “Steamed Mussels with Wine, Garlic and Parsley”

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”