Homemade Almond Milk

Almond milk is a super simple concoction, and a great DIY Basics project — especially if you have a Vitamix!   I just got one, and am enjoying experimenting with it. With just two ingredients — almonds and water — Almond Milk is a true basic, especially for vegans or those who can’t tolerate dairy.   After…

Mac and Cheese

Classic  Mac and Cheese is a great comfort food.  This is a traditional style, using a bechamel base and lots of extra sharp cheddar cheese for flavor. The addition of of cayenne pepper offers a flavor boost rather than heat, especially if using a smaller amount.  Feel free to include flavorsome add-ins:  Sriracha, ham chunks,…

Pumpkin Pancakes

Winter squash are perfect right now. Reposting this fab recipe. Enjoy! Warm, fluffy, moist, lightly spiced, pumpkin pancakes.  They’re just right to get you started on a Fall morning.  Or, for a fun twist, try them for dinner one night. Pumpkin Pancakes 2 (10 oz) cups flour 3 TB brown sugar 1 1/2 tsp. baking…

Smoky Black-eyed Peas

Summer’s winding down, and that means that rich, red tomatoes are abundant.  I’m making this recipe tonight — and thought I’d repost it today for your inspiration.  Enjoy! The beautiful black-eyed pea has a natural affinity to smoky flavors, and so pairs well with a favorite spice of mine — smoked paprika. Adding the rich…

Niçoise Salad Platter

Here’s my take on a simple classic Salade Niçoise – perfect for warm summer nights.  A bed of fresh greens, green beans, potatoes, tuna, and smoky niçoise olives are brought together with the simplest of dressings — a squeeze of lemon, sea salt, and your best olive oil. I scattered chopped fresh oregano on top…

Southwest Summer Salad

Here is a spicy, savory meal that makes great use of prime summer produce — corn, tomatoes, lettuce, and avocados — in one delicious salad.  This is a crowd pleasing superstar, as it’s dairy and gluten free, vegan, deliciously nutritious, and easy to do much of the prep in advance. This salad uses one of…