Had I known that making gummy candy was quicker than Jello, I would have made it long before now! Seriously, gummies take less than 30 minutes to mix, set, and cut, and only require four ingredients. Can it get much easier than that? These candies were so easy that I had time to play around with sweeteners. I found that maple syrup tasted better than … Continue reading Cranberry and Coconut Gummy Candies
In real life I have been blessed to know some very creative friends. I met Quyen when she was a university student in Vietnam. She has since gone on to live abroad herself, and I love seeing what her talented hands continue to create inside and outside of the kitchen. Of this amazing pancake recipe she says: Last week I happened to make these pancakes … Continue reading Almond Surprise Pancakes with Cinnamon Maple Syrup
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
Adding red pomegranate arils to things is usually a good idea. Especially if you love pomegranate. With blueberry muffins, here is an opportunity to add a little extra colour, flavour and crunch. The crumb topping gives a superb finish. With the first batch gobbled up quickly, it’s time to make more. Mornings, especially busy ones, just go better with muffins. And fresh, homemade muffins are … Continue reading Blueberry Pomegranate Muffins
Simple and elegant, pasta with pesto and red peppers makes an impressive weeknight meal that is blessedly quick. Or serve it to guests and give yourself time to spare for fun and conversation. The green pesto can be made up to 3 days ahead of time. If you are like me and crave colour during these bleak midwinter months, the spritely red and green colours … Continue reading Red Pepper and Green Pesto Pasta
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
Swirls and Spice 