It feels like summer has arrived in Georgia and spring is already all but forgotten. It happened fast. While I was distracted the rains ended and the temperature rose. Air conditioners came to life and mosquitoes began to challenge my comfort on the front porch…and still, I haven’t posted the […]
The Phone Call Sometimes life takes a radical turn. Sometimes you see it coming. Other times you don’t. Last year, in February, I went for a routine mammogram. Then I went about my business. I attended a women’s retreat. I posted to my blog. In the midst of living, I […]
After a season of feasting on rich foods and nibbling on elaborate cookies I’m ready to get back to basics. In my kitchen that often begins with the tradition of cooking black-eyed peas and greens to inspire luck in the coming year. The origins of this southern tradition are debatable […]
Sweet Cherry Salsa draws on ginger, as well as peppers, to create a spicy warmth. Then it brings in notes of citrus and a splash of balsamic vinegar to lend depth to the sweet tang of ripe red cherries. To make the transition from a starter to a meal’s sweet conclusion, you might even add a few bites of dark chocolate.
Sometimes I just can’t follow a recipe to save my life. Last weekend I set out to make Alanna’s Strawberry Salsa. Then, with additions and substitutions of cinnamon basil, fresh ginger, pineapple and a splash of balsamic vinegar, I had a fresh fruit salsa that was fragrant, tart-sweet, and just a little bit spicy. By adapting a good recipe to the realities of my kitchen at the moment I created my own Sweet Strawberry Salsa.
The flavors of sweet roasted corn, tart pomegranate arils, crunchy jicama and rich pine nuts meld with honeyed ginger and lime in delicious Pomegranate and Roasted Corn Salsa. Served with plantain chips it makes a beautiful appetizer.
For many years my favorite fruit was cantaloupe. I couldn’t get enough of its soft pastel flesh. I loved the texture and the deep sweetness…
Cranberries and chiles make an intriguing flavor combination even before you add the ginger, cilantro and honey. Taken as a whole, this unique Cranberry Salsa offers a nice change of pace to a familiar holiday menu. Serve with baked Sweet Potato Chips for added seasonal appeal.
How are blueberries like summer? As quickly as they show up, plump and gorgeous and enticing, sending me scrambling for ways to enjoy their deep blue tangy sweetness – yes, just as suddenly, they are gone…