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”

Lubia: Lebanese Stewed Beef, Tomatoes, and Green Beans

  My dear grandmother just turned 95 years old.  A trip to Florida was in order! I love listening to my grandma’s stories.  Especially when they involve family history and traditions.  My grandma learned to cook from her Lebanese mother-in-law.  After my grandparents wedding, a crash course in Lebanese cooking quickly ensued.  Lubia was grandpa’s favoriteContinueContinue reading “Lubia: Lebanese Stewed Beef, Tomatoes, and Green Beans”

Lebanese Meat Stuffed Grape Leaves

  Grandma never measured anything out.  Mom learned from Grandma. The best family recipes aren’t documented.  There’s no written recipe to reference when daring to recreate those most nostalgic childhood meals.  A little bit of this, a little bit of that…and somehow it always turned out perfect.  As is the case with my mom’s stuffedContinueContinue reading “Lebanese Meat Stuffed Grape Leaves”

Rosemary and Garlic Roast Beef

  Vegetarians, renounce your vows. The above line is a slogan used by my favorite little butcher shop in Southwest, Michigan. I think it applies for this post. On the rare (see what I did there) occasion I find myself craving beef, I think of a thick cut Delmonico steak grilled to perfection by myContinueContinue reading “Rosemary and Garlic Roast Beef”

Chicken Parmesan Meatloaf Muffins

  I live for the weekends!  Especially weekends with good friends, good food, and plenty of time outdoors.  Chicago is in the prime of autumn right now.  The leaves have reached their peak colors, so a long walk around the neighborhood was on the agenda yesterday.  It almost felt like we were walking through aContinueContinue reading “Chicken Parmesan Meatloaf Muffins”