Wok cooking is colorful, hot and fast, which fits a busy autumn schedule. Why not prepare a spectrum of healthy stir fried choices. Carrots take longer; so, remember to slice the carrots thin and at an angle to get the … Continue reading →

We wait months for autumn’s embrace. Gone is the glare of summer and we welcome the mood for soothing soups. Barley soup is wholesome and it can be enriched with a beef bone that contains marrow. A browned lamb shank … Continue reading →

Cheese is wonderful when served any time of year. I especially love it as autumn begins. Did you know that cheese goes well with tea selections? Blue cheese, honey and Darjeeling tea taste divine when paired. Gouda with the smoky … Continue reading →

September is a delightful transitional month when we welcome autumn’s brisk breezes while clinging to the sweetness of summer’s fruits. Melons are abundant and delicious. A wonderful simple appetizer prior to main course is to serve chunks of ripe cantaloupe … Continue reading →

September calls for satisfying meals that gather the clan. Sheppard’s Pie is one of our favorites and no one cooks one better that Michael, my British husband. Sheppard’s Pie fare can be found all over Europe and I really appreciate … Continue reading →

I agree. We are very busy at this time of year! I keep up a positive attitude by keeping things simple but emphasizing special presentations. Try my Beef-Hash Pie for a quick and easy wholesome fare. Kelly’s Beef-Hash Pie From … Continue reading →

Celebrate that transitional time from summer fun to back to regular routines with extra special desserts. Fruit desserts bask in the glory of summer and showcase with grandeur. Build excitement during the transition by serving Bananas Foster, Strawberry Romanoff, Crepes … Continue reading →

After a long day of boating, whether it is fishing, water skiing or basking in the sun, you may not want to cook a smorgasbord buffet for hungry guests. My answer is to cook the night before; so, no matter … Continue reading →

There are two shopping seasons that are very hectic. One is in December and the other is in August, as school starts. These are times that you wish to make family members the happiest; yet, the traffic and the selections … Continue reading →

Have you ever noticed how the heat outside makes seafood taste better? It’s that childlike feeling of being near the beach just as a delicate bite of Mahi Mahi is flavorfully eaten. You can play a CD of Hawaiian music … Continue reading →

I love to bring summer items to the table. When my sister and her husband dine with us, the table is simple but fun. Seashells are placed with a single strand of faux pearls around each. I like to have … Continue reading →

Chill the outside heat-wave sear. Strawberries are to the rescue. It’s called a Strawberry Daiquiri. For a standard size 7 cup blender, add 2 cups of ice (then crush). Then, add 6 oz. of light rum, 4 oz. of simple … Continue reading →

Fruit and chocolate are two wonderful summer combinations. One of my favorites is candied orange peel. It is so easy to make. Simply, julienne cut orange rind (the peel) and cook the rind on the stove in 1 cup of … Continue reading →

If you can’t take the heat, bring chilled food to the table. We like cold lobster salad. It is so easy. Just boil the lobster and crack out the meat. Chop the lobster meat, add diced celery and add a … Continue reading →

Pool parties are the fastest cool down. When it is hot outside, serve cold items. Here are some ideas: 1) Freeze fruit juice Sangria. Cranberry juice with slices of orange, lime and lemon are perfect. As the heat sets in, … Continue reading →