An upcoming move means working to be creative about using up as much from the pantry, refrigerator, and freezer as possible before packing up the remainder and carting it off. But when Mother Nature is tossing 90 degree days my way, what's a girl to do? Grab her trusty crockpot, that's what!
As Independence Day draws nearer and summer entertaining begins to become commonplace, it seems like a good time to look at ways to incorporate those patriotic colors of red, white, and blue into your menu without turning to desserts, where that color scheme is easily replicable. Instead, why not showcase them in a fun summer salad featuring incredibly fresh seasonal produce?
Blueberries are starting to come into season and, far from feeling blue, they bring great joy to me and my household. So it's with great pleasure and anticipation that we look forward to a simple cheesecake pie that's loaded with fresh blueberries and delicious blueberry syrup. Hooray for the season of fresh produce!
When making sure everyone gets fed, there's something to be said for having items on hand that can serve multiple roles. This time around, I'm offering a muffin recipe that has a little bit of everything and holds its own as part of breakfast, brunch, snacktime, or even dessert!
A chef winning a James Beard Award is like a scientist winning the Nobel Prize for research. It's a huge honor and I'm thrilled to share that a local chef, Chef Tory Miller of L'Etoile in Madison, has won this year's for the Midwest. Many congratulations to him and his dedicated team!
Those that have the opportunity to enjoy fresh produce by way of a community sponsored agriculture share (or regular trips to your local farmers' market) know that now is the time when things really start to become truly breath-taking in the kitchen. Beautiful salads, tender rhubarb crisps, and stir-fries to make anyone drool become common on tables that are fortunate enough to experience CSA joy!
Do you have a go-to recipe for an easy dinner when you're not feeling like fussing much in the kitchen? I do. And it's a fantastic way to feed your family and leave your house smelling fantastic. Super simple baked chicken thighs can be easily paired with rice and a green salad and you've got dinner with minimal work.
When you're putting together a casserole, what's your go-to topping to give it that extra flavor and texture? I'm sharing my favorites and asking you to do the same. Some are tried and true, while others are a bit more unexpected. Add in the option of layering and the possibilities are endless!
Did you know beer has ideal serving temperatures, just like wine? It can also be paired with foods and other beverages. It even has health benefits! Find out more about beer with a fun infographic from FrugalDad.com and then check out Madison's Craft Beer Week event guide and, if you are in the area, get out and learn even more.
A little nostalgia for a favorite carnival treat becomes the inspiration for a great cake. Layering a beautifully spiced apple cake with pillows of apple filling and a rich coating of sweet, sticky caramel results in bliss. Add a generous sprinkling of chopped peanuts and you've got a cake that's paying proper homage to the best carnival caramel apples.
