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
Whether you’re ready for a party or in need of a boost, you cannot go wrong with citrus. The bright aromas are a natural mood enhancer! We’ve been drooping this week, with fluctuating weather, my husband not feeling well, and the kitchen in chaos. So as I suggested before, when life gets you down, make lemon bars. Amen? Last time I created Citrus Swirl Lemon … Continue reading Mango Lemon Bars with Coconut Crust
An aromatic Asian broth surrounds homemade buckwheat noodles in this comforting soup. Each flavourful spoonful is also healthy and gluten free, thanks to nutritious bone broth and magnesium-rich buckwheat. This month, in addition to fancier fare like clafoutis, I’ve intentionally shared more of my family’s favourite simple recipes. Tasty foods like Creamy Sweet Pea Salad and Paradise Fruit Salad appear on our table again and again in real … Continue reading Homemade Buckwheat Noodle Soup
Not only is this one of the easiest salads ever, it is also packed with vitamins A and C, thanks to the peas and carrots. I make this salad frequently in the spring and summer for dinner and potlucks. The serving bowl is almost always empty by the end of the meal. Even family members who are not pea fans like this creamy side dish, … Continue reading Creamy Sweet Pea Salad
Loaded with vegetables and packed with savoury goodness, bacon-infused pilaf works well as a meal with soup or salad. It can also be served in smaller portions as a hearty side dish. Eggplant and bacon pair beautifully together, and the flavours of the dish are completed by the lemon, soy sauce, and shiitake mushrooms. Though I prefer the more delicate flavour of fresh mushrooms, I … Continue reading Roasted Vegetable Pilaf with Bacon and Shiitake Mushrooms
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
Swirls and Spice 