Spiced Walnut Cookies

Deeply scented cookies have a crispy/chewy texture and the rich crunch of walnuts. (I’ve been on a spice tear after reading DUNE).  They are fast and easy to make and your kitchen will smell wonderful as they bake.  The key is the spice mixture:  heavy on cinnamon with three others to lend intrigue:  cayenne, allspice,…

Double Persimmon Napa Cabbage Salad

It’s persimmon month, at least in my house.  I’ve got my first batch of dried Hachiya persimmons ready, and fresh mellow Fuyu persimmons on my counter.  I put the two of them together in a salad with savory, slightly bitter napa cabbage and it was a great combo. I lightly dressed the greens and persimmons…

Giant Cheesy Goldfish Crackers

These are the Goldfish of your dreams. Cheesy, buttery, smiling giant goldfish crackers.  Perfect for a special snack, as they are rich and addictively delicious for the cheese lover. The key to getting the goldfish shape is to augment a diamond ring cookie cutter by elongating the round portion, and adding a dent in the…

Smoky Quinoa and Lentils

Earthy red quinoa and french green lentils taste amazing with sweet ripe tomatoes and a smoky lemon dressing. The magic making these simple foods extra delicious is smoked paprika.  I developed this recipe to inspire a friend looking for good lunch ideas.  This one works nicely — it’s best at room temp, protein packed, super…

Zingy Strawberry Smoothie

This delicious, zingy smoothie is one of my favorites, and for several reasons. Most important to me, it tastes fabulous — tart, sweet, creamy, a little spicy, and richly scented.  And it’s a quick charge up for those mornings when I need to eat and go.  But here’s the fun part — it has health…

Yellow Watermelon Rum Slushie

Summer Happy Hour alert:  combine frozen yellow watermelon, fresh squeezed lime juice, thai basil, and white rum.  This delicious frozen cocktail was a hit at my house this week. Three fragrant ingredients combine to produce a sophisticated and interesting cocktail:  watermelon, orange blossom water, and thai basil.  I love the beautiful color of yellow watermelon,…