Spring Paella is fragrant and appealing. It gathers a variety of fresh vegetables into a pretty rice dish that cooks on the stovetop. The rice is served all dente and the flavors are bright. This recipe works great for a weeknight meal and is festive enough for company. Once you have tried it, feel free to vary the vegetables and proteins to fit what you find available at its seasonal best.
Main Dish
Family Heirloom Cookbook – Chicken and Dumplings
As a child I loved Chicken and Dumplings. I helped Aunt Hen roll out the dough on her small kitchen table and I could hardly wait until it was time for dinner. Now my children ask for Chicken and Dumplings too. A favorite, across the miles and the generations, my grandmother’s recipe still satisfies a hungry family.
It’s All About Attitude – Mushroom and Brie Quiche
Earthy mushrooms and tender onions contrast luscious strips of creamy cheese in the filling for this Mushroom and Brie Quiche. Baked in a homemade pie crust it makes an impressive entree for brunch or dinner.
Kusherie (Egyptian Rice and Lentils)
Several years ago my family made a commitment to eat weekly rice dinners during Lent. Instead of a normal weeknight dinner, on Wednesday evenings we ate plain rice. Water, salt, rice. Nothing else…
Bacon, Squash & Chestnut Risotto
I just love Jamie Oliver. I used to watch Oliver’s Twist and I would get hungry just listening to him talk about food. (It’s probably the accent!) I can remember drooling over the risotto he cooked. It sounded so good that I even tried it myself, carefully watching and following […]
Groundhog Day Meatloaf
Groundhog Day Meatloaf is both attractive and delicious. The flavor of roasted rosemary and the slight crunch of the toasted almond crust elevate this meatloaf to something special. The olives add just a touch of whimsy, suggesting a groundhog, without being fussy. Served on a bed of spinach and garnished with cherry tomatoes it makes an appealing family-style entrée that is perfect for this unique occasion.
An Herb Roasted Chicken in the Oven
Fresh lemon and a few sprigs of thyme add interest and texture to the delicious aroma of roasted chicken. Sheltered in my cozy kitchen that wonderful fragrance announces that a nourishing dinner will soon be waiting in the oven.
Ham and Cheese Bread
This vintage recipe is a great way to use leftover ham. Sprinkled with grated cheese and sesame seeds, Ham and Cheese Bread is pretty and versatile. It makes a great recipe for a casual dinner, a packed lunch or a tasty snack. Any leftover bread, sliced and toasted, works nicely as a quick breakfast.
Northwest Cioppino
Today I went shopping for Christmas Eve dinner. Christmas Eve is usually hectic around my house. People are taking care of last minute details…
Italian Supper Soup
Easy to make on short notice, or even prepare in advance, Italian Supper Soup combines pantry staples with fresh spinach to create a warm and nourishing dinner option that accommodates a challenging schedule.
Meals for One – Spinach with Chickpeas
One of my favorite easy meals involves little more than a bag of spinach and a can of chickpeas. Add heat, a little olive oil and a few spices and in just a few minutes it is ready for the table. Enjoy Spinach with Chickpeas as a meal for one or an easy side dish. Serve with Naan or, if you have a heartier appetite, add grilled meat, rice or quinoa.