Category: Uncategorized

Wayland Farmer’s Market at Russell’s Garden Center

I have never been so happy to see so much green! I decided to hit the Wayland Winter Farmer’s Market at Russell’s Garden Center on the very last weekend of the season. It was just the breath of spring air I needed after a long week of winter weather, a bad head cold, and no fresh produce. The place itself is huge, and would be heaven for someone who is into gardening. Sadly, I have no green thumb, but I still loved walking around.

There were flowers everywhere, and even the birds were singing (or sleeping, in this case)!

Amidst all the beautiful plants and flowers, there was a great group of vendors with local products including a variety of breads, cheeses, honey, and yes, fresh vegetables. I tasted a few cheeses which I liked, but my main focus was on the produce. The winter selection is limited of course, but I did buy one new item, and the farmer himself told me how to cook it. Details tomorrow!

TGIF!

I’ve had no time to cook this week, so no new recipe for today. But I do have some fun projects planned for this weekend…including No Knead Bread, my first bread making experience in a long time. See you Monday!

2009: Year in Review

2009 was my first full calendar year of blogging, and what a year it’s been! Let me take you on a little tour with a few complimentary beverages.

January featured many warm and cozy meals, including this pork roast. In February, I tried Hungry Girl’s Girlfredo Pizza, just one of the great recipes you can make with Laughing Cow cheese. In March I was on location in Florida for a week, and posted a demo of homemade manicotti.

I had no idea that the lazy cabbage casserole I posted in April would be such a hit with readers, but my favorite recipe of the year was the Squash and Potato Torte, which I made three times in May. My Dad’s favorite was the risotto in June, and at least one reader told me that Pizzas on the Grill from July were a hit.

I used the grill again for this salad from Giada in August, and then the griddle for these Banana Pancakes with Chocolate Peanut Butter Swirls in September. To celebrate the birth of my nephew in October, I made tiramisu, and then to celebrate my birthday in November my sister made this Chocolate Peanut Butter cake. December featured lots and lots of cookies.

My goals for the year were to use more local produce, enjoy a variety of whole grains, and focus on meals which were portable. I did use a lot of locally grown zucchini, in cold salads and hot dishes, but didn’t visit as many local farms as I wanted. And although I didn’t try many new grains, I did find new ways to use barley and wheatberries. I really made strides though in the portable meal category, starting with Overnight Oats for the perfect breakfast at work, and some great salads and wraps for lunch or dinner.

Thank you to everyone for reading, eating, and cooking.
So what’s up for 2010? Tune in Monday to find out!

Countdown to Thanksgiving

Some families like to have exactly the same dishes year after year. Some families like to mix it up and try new recipes. Some families talk constantly about the menu and email recipe links back and forth leading up to the holiday. But really, whichever category your family fits, have fun with it!

Here are some of my family’s tried and true Thanksgiving recipes, in case you’re looking for ideas.

Noni’s Stuffing
Grandma’s Turnip
Mom’s Apple Pie
Kelly’s Pumpkin Muffins

Turkey Dinner in the NuWave Oven

My friend Paula has been raving about her NuWave oven, and invited a few of her food loving friends over for a turkey dinner. The NuWave cooks food quickly, and uses less energy than a conventional oven. The turkey browned beautifully, and stayed very moist. And you can easily keep an eye on things with the clear cover.

But the best advantage for a party is that your oven is free to cook other dishes, like Paula’s amazing roasted potatoes, or maybe even another turkey if your Thanksgiving crowd requires two. I am glad I got to see this machine in action, and dinner was fantastic!

Pumpkin Butter

I actually bookmarked this recipe LAST fall, and just never got the chance to make it. There’s no excuse, really, it’s an easy recipe. Putting the spices in the bowl is the best part I think; the kitchen was filled with a great scent. The pumpkin flavor is intense, and it has just a hint of sweetness. It’s perfect for a piece of toast, or sliced apples and pears as shown here.

Turning the Table

I truly never stop looking for recipes, and inspiration is everywhere – food blogs, magazines, restaurant menus, and television shows. And now I ask you for inspiration – what recipes would you like to see here? What ingredients would you like me to use? Everyday meals, or something more special?

Post your ideas in the comments, and I’ll do what I can over the next few months. Thanks for the help, I am really excited to hear your ideas!