Broccoli cheese soup is one of my all time favorite soups. I have been making it for a long time and feel I finally perfected it. This broccoli cheese soup is rich, creamy and full of flavor. I usually eat this soup as a meal in itself, along with a warm baguette….a great combination. I…
Split Pea Soup
My Mom’s recipe for split pea soup is incredible. I remember when I was growing up that if we had baked ham with a bone there was going to be split pea soup in my future. It was one of my favorite soups, but it did not start out that way. The first time I had…
Chicago Style Pizza
I love Chicago-style pizza and I have tried many different pies over the years. Whenever I’m eating out and see this pizza on a menu I always have to try it. Sometimes, people refer to this as “deep dish” pizza. But the true “Chicago-style” pizza is different than most other pies. The dough is cooked…
Guacamole
Guacamole originated with the Aztecs in Mexico in the 16th century and is considered one of Mexico’s best known sauces, some say its most popular sauce. I would question that, however, since salsa in its many varieties is prevalent in all Mexican restaurants, both in Mexico and the U.S. Guacamole is most popular in the…
Citrus Braised Pork Tacos
Something magical happens to this pork when you marinate it in fresh citrus marinade, and then braise it for hours in the marinade and allow the fat to render down into the pork. I love serving this pork for large groups. I set up a taco bar with all the traditional toppings (cheese, salsa, lettuce,…
Salsa Verde
You will find bright green salsa verde in almost all Mexican restaurants. It’s sometimes served with your starter basket of tortilla chips or at least it’s out on the condiment table along with the hotter red chile sauce and the fresh tomato salsa. Salsa verde is the one that most Americans never even try when…
Mandarin Orange Salad
I really enjoy this mandarin orange salad. It is very light and refreshing. I love the unique combination of the sweetness of the fruit and vinaigrette, the spicy sharpness of the onion, the creaminess of the goat cheese, and the crunch of the sunflower seeds. This recipe is based on a salad that I was…
Tomato Sauce
I have come up with a really simple, but flavorful tomato sauce recipe that was inspired by celebrity Chef Scott Conant. I watched an episode of “The Best Thing I Ever Ate” on the Food Network that focused on sauces. Ted Allen said that the best spaghetti and sauce he ever ate was from Scott…
Roasted Almond Butter
Roasted almond butter is fast becoming one of my favorite nut butters. It is packed with an intense roasted aroma, but its flavor is rich and delicate. It’s great on toast or crackers with a touch of honey. I think, however, that the roasted almond flavor can be overpowered if you put too much fruit…
Pesto Sauce
When I’m looking for something different than tomato sauce for pasta, I really like the rich, fresh flavor of pesto sauce. The freshness comes from basil leaves, and the richness comes from grated parmesan cheese and toasted nuts…..and it’s so simple to make. Traditional pesto comes from the Liguria region of Italy and consists of…
