With fresh spinach from our garden, some chopped yellow peppers, and smoked paprika for an aromatic smoky flavor, extra containers of steamed rice from the previous night’s Chinese takeout is transformed into a delicious vegetarian meal. Grilled peaches add a touch of summer sweetness and a lovely contrast to the spicy warmth of the paprika. […]
Main Dish
Steak Grilling Tips for Fathers Day
Grilling is not just for men! On Father’s Day, you can slay a grill-takeover using these steak grilling tips from the Executive Chef of Mastro’s Steakhouse. What Steaks are Best for Grilling Rule #1 is to start with the best quality steak you can find and afford. Looking for the best steaks to grill? The […]
Mushroom and Spinach Tart
Unlike the rest of my family, I could eat spinach every day with practically anything! Most of the time I sauté it with a bit of olive oil and, of course, red pepper flakes for a bit of zip. But last week, we celebrated the first spinach harvested from our garden in a delicate puff […]
Kids in the Kitchen
From Michelle Obama’s popular garden at the White House and ‘Let’s Move’ initiative to fight childhood obesity, to Jamie Oliver’s TV show “Food Revolution“, to Guy Fieri’s proposed legislation to recognize the 2nd Saturday of May as “Cook With Your Kids Day” in California, there seems to be a rising wave of genuine interest in […]
Grilled Tuna with Ginger-Lime Sauce
Cooking is not something that comes naturally – it’s a skill that’s developed over time just like anything else. Once you familiarize yourself with the tools of the trade and feel comfortable in a kitchen you’re more able to “throw” a satisfying and delicious meal together with what you have on hand. Over the years […]
Sesame Noodle Salad with Peanut Ginger Dressing
There is absolutely nothing better on a hot summer’s day than a chilled noodle or pasta salad. I’m talking about this refreshing, delicious departure from your typical store-bought pasta salads laden with fat and calories from mayonnaise, but a Thai-inspired Soba noodle salad strewn with vibrant carrots, cool cucumbers and a luscious homemade peanut butter-ginger […]
For the love of eggplant
She’s Cookin’s recipe for Eggplant Parmesan was chosen as a finalist in Zov’s (of Zov’s Bistro fame) eggplant recipe contest and the judging is today; so I’m busy making Eggplant Parmesan “My Way” just as soon as I finish this cup of java 🙂 Over the years, I fine-tuned the preparation of this dish to […]
Grilled Lamb Kebabs
Whatever the name: brochettes, kebabs, kabobs, skewers – mixed with colorful peppers and onion they are a delicious alternative to steak, chicken, or ribs for spring or summer grilling. Enjoy 🙂 Shown here with a salsa of halved grape tomatoes mixed with sliced green onions and green chilies in olive oil mixed with orzo.
Zucchini and Sundried Tomato Tart
For my first ever professional photo shoot I prepared two entrees: one was a Mediterranean-inspired Zucchini and Sundried Tomato Tart, the perfect dish for a spring garden party or brunch. With summer nearly here, I decided on Grilled Lamb Kebabs for the second dish. Brochettes or kabobs are a lighter alternative to grilled steak or […]
Bucatini with Spinach and Mushrooms
This is another “No Recipe” dinner that I created from what I had in the fridge that needed using and a half-used package of pasta in pantry. Of course, to have anything in the fridge you have to go grocery shopping now and then, and most of you do. Also, a decently-stocked pantry of essentials […]