Shrimp, White Bean and Cabbage Soup

If you’ve never tried Napa cabbage, you must give it a whirl in this soup. As the delicate cousin of the more pungent green cabbage that I steered clear of as a child, Napa cabbage (also called Chinese cabbage) plays very nicely with the broth, shrimp, and white beans. I first came to appreciate Chinese cabbage in soup form when I lived in northeast China, … Continue reading Shrimp, White Bean and Cabbage Soup

Mexican Egg Drop Soup {Sopa de Huevo y Ajo}

The temperature plummets and Mexican food is what I crave.  Soup is a perfectly simple way to enjoy the vibrant flavours of Mexico.  Although there is not a Mexican restaurant (that I know of) within 100 miles of where I live now, I still have my own cocina in which I can whip up fresh Tex Mex (like this soup, fresh tortillas, or taquitos) any day.  … Continue reading Mexican Egg Drop Soup {Sopa de Huevo y Ajo}

Simple Stuffed Pepper Soup

It’s the most wonderful and most activity packed time of the year!  A gloriously simple supper of rich soup is an ideal weeknight meal solution.  My friend Jessica shared this this delicious stuffed pepper soup with me, and I know your family will love it too!  It is great to have a hearty homemade soup that comes together in less than an hour, with most … Continue reading Simple Stuffed Pepper Soup

Red Pepper and Green Pesto Pasta

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

Cranberry Chicken Salad Mini Pitas

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

Baked Chicken (or Turkey) Taquitos with Cranberry Salsa

Once I tasted Jane’s Cranberry Salsa, the possibilities for using it began to multiply.  Chicken salad with cranberry salsa?  Yes, please.  But what I am sharing today is a fresh take on taquitos, which I invented as a way to further enjoy some remaining cranberry salsa.  Instead of cheese, creamy mayonnaise ties together the chicken and salsa, creating a delightful, unique filling.  The guacamole is … Continue reading Baked Chicken (or Turkey) Taquitos with Cranberry Salsa