Monthly Archives: June 2011

Grilled Flatbread

Baking bread, to me, elevates cooking from an assembly of ingredients to a process nearing alchemy, a skill meant only for those who dare to meet the challenge. My first attempt at baking bread resulted in a bland, if pretty, … Continue reading

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Comfort Food: A Look Back

With Cindy at Great America, circa 1983 I was first introduced to the ritual of comfort food in the sixth grade. My parents were newly divorced and my younger sister, Cindy, and I were learning how to navigate on our … Continue reading

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{recipe} Chicken & Bulgar Wheat Salad

The other day I had what can only be considered an epiphany: I like to cook. Just not every day. And not to go all new-age mindful on you, but recognizing this was such an emotional release that I instantly … Continue reading

Get More: Breads & Grains, Poultry, Salads, Vegetables 8 Comments

{recipe} Steakhouse Steaks

Filet mignon is, by my way of thinking, a special occasion kind of dish, one that celebrates life’s victories, even those as seemingly minor as gathering a far-flung family together for the same meal. Until I became seriously devoted to … Continue reading

Get More: Essential Recipes, Meat 4 Comments

{recipe} Arugula Pesto & A Pesto Roundup

Pesto, as I’ve mentioned before, is my one of my all-time favorite comfort foods. Last weekend, for a grill-out with friends, I made this light arugula pesto – made with more water than oil, it worked well over the adorable … Continue reading

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{recipe} Cucumbers with Sour Cream & Dill

This is a salad I learned from my mother. She makes it all summer long, to accompany salmon or steak, or as a light lunch with tomatoes and sourdough bread. The cucumbers add a much needed watery crunch on a … Continue reading

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How To Cook With Kids (they’re in the kitchen anyway, right?!)

Turning your child into a sous chef is easier than you think. Teach her a few simple tasks and who knows? You could be training the next Barefoot Contessa or Bobby Flay. Before you begin, take control of your kitchen … Continue reading

Get More: Tips & Techniques 21 Comments

{recipe} Gwyneth Paltrow’s Baked Fries

As a food blogger with a picky eater in the house (my little miss), life in the kitchen can get frustrating at times. I am super happy to report, therefore, that this lovely recipe by Gwyneth Paltrow for baked fries, … Continue reading

Get More: Appetizers, Tips & Techniques, Vegetables 7 Comments