I was dismayed, recently, when a teenager thought that the US fought the French during the Revolutionary War. For those who slept through history class, the French were and still are our allies. History is becoming a lost art and … Continue reading →

Amsterdam is an inspiration for anyone in need of colorful stimulation. The flora abounds from the Keukenhof gardens to the extraordinary selection of stunning flower specimens in the flower market. This enlightens even to the most mundane admirer. When in … Continue reading →

Summer sunshine calls for an iced tea party. There is the classic sun tea in which tea bags of Orange Pekoe are steeped in a clear glass vessel so that the sun’s rays trap the heat from the direct sun. … Continue reading →

Summer journeys are a focus for bon voyage parties and summer chilled soups are perfect for entertaining. Any melon, pureed and strained, serves the purpose. (I like to add a touch of fruit nectar and a 1/2 cup of condensed … Continue reading →

Admittedly, I have a sweet tooth. I am one of those who adds a dash of sugar to any of my tomato or marinara sauces. Yes, as a confession, I add sugar to my black-eyed peas. Just enough sugar will … Continue reading →

With all of our modern appliances, tools, gadgets and interest in cooking, I am always amazed by how many really don’t understand how to make beef, chicken or lamb taste good. Yes, it depends on the cut and the style … Continue reading →

How do you feed a hungry household an a budget? The Dutch descendants have been doing it for centuries by utilizing the classic Dutch oven. It is time to “Chef-up” some standard dishes and wake up your family to quality … Continue reading →

Mother’s Day isn’t special with floral detailing. A lovely breakfast tray highlighted with an adorable bud vase filled with fresh flowers sets the tone for special attention. An omelette, blintzes, and fruit filled crepes all evoke the message of thoughtful … Continue reading →

Cinco de Mayo is a festive holiday celebrating Hispanic heritage on May 5. The cuisine is delicious and the condiments are bright in color. In south Texas, rolled up tortillas filled with scrambled egg, beef or chicken are called soft … Continue reading →

When I was trained in the French classic style of how to make puff pastry at LaVarenne in Burgundy, France, the windows of the Château were wide open to let the fresh air in. Maybe it is the abundance of … Continue reading →

“Is it warm enough?” calls my neighbor. “It’s only warm enough to dip your toes into.” So close. In just a few more days we’ll be edging our place in the sun. Ah, the beach. You don’t have to wait … Continue reading →

My grandmother sewed my first apron. I worn it with honor at age three and I still have it. There are many styles of aprons offered today. In Europe, the longer length is a tradition. It, too, is worn with … Continue reading →

The flora outside is exploding with color and fragrance. It’s so easy to make your food presentations colorful, too! Just mix and toss herbs with pasta for glorious spring mix and enjoy my Springtime Confetti Pasta. Springtime Confetti Pasta Prepare … Continue reading →

Easter holds many blessings and special memories are created with worship and family egg hunts. I recall my grandmother’s stories of more difficult times during the WWII and her inventive ways to stretch the funds with rationed ingredients. Her Easter … Continue reading →

Break free of the walls and celebrate spring outside. Tennis, golfing and bicycling are all highlighted as the sun’s warmth swings south again. I love picnics, too. For the little energetic outings my black-eyed pea pie adds protein and it … Continue reading →