Appetizers = one of the best inventions ever. In my ideal world, meals would consist of an endless array of appetizers and be eaten outdoors whenever possible. Though I have never had the good fortune of experiencing a tapas party, I suspect I would never wish to leave if I did. Furthermore, if you browse my recipe index, you’ll notice that there are far more … Continue reading Cilantro Olive Tapenade
With the lunar new year approaching soon, why not try making some traditional Asian sticky rice? My favourite versions of sticky rice are Thai sticky rice with mango and Vietnamese sticky rice, which is often bought for breakfast; it is also served at special occasions as a side dish, usually with poultry. Banana leaves are the traditional way to wrap sticky rice, but squares of … Continue reading Steamed Sticky Rice Cups
Delightfully different, this pizza has a perfect balance of flavours that will satisfy winter cravings for something colourful and interesting. A creamy, Asian-inspired cashew sauce ties together the pomelo, shrimp and avocado topping medley. While a sprinkling of cilantro would be nice, it isn’t essential. To save an extra trip to store, I worked with what I had on hand and was quite happy with … Continue reading Citrusy Shrimp and Avocado Pizza with Cashew Sauce
Pretty floral guacamole blossoms are great starters for gatherings during the holiday season. With only three ingredients, they are simple to make. And the poinsettia flowers can serve as more than a decoration–they can be a conversation starter as well. Why do we use poinsettias as Christmas decorations? Have you heard of the legend of the poinsettia? Did the legend precede the tradition, or vice … Continue reading Poinsettia Guacamole Blossoms
Holiday parties and open houses need something substantial–yet not too filling–that can balance out the all cookies and sweets. Stuff miniature pitas with tangy cranberry chicken salad and watch them go at your next event. This chicken (or turkey) salad actually tastes better after you let it chill for a while, since the flavours are accentuated over time. Hence, cranberry chicken salad is a perfect … Continue reading Cranberry Chicken Salad Mini Pitas
Bright bites of sweet-and-salty goodness will beckon hungry party-goers to pick these up from your holiday platter–and then return for more. The green pesto spread features spinach, walnuts, and pecans, but skips the typical fresh basil or cilantro since they are not in season. Happily, I discovered that adding a few artichoke hearts to the mix rounds out the pesto’s taste perfectly. And the sparkling … Continue reading Pomegranate and Green Pesto Bites
Swirls and Spice 