Latest Recipes

Pasta, Side Dish

The Perfect Side: Cheesy Orzo

Cheesy Orzo, courtesy of Rachael Ray’s 20 Minute Meals II book, is a dish I’ve been making for more than 20 years. It is the perfect side dish for literally anything and everything. I always have the ingredients on hand – orzo, broth, onion, garlic, grated Parmesan. That’s really all you need. As is usually the case with a Rachael Ray recipe, the portion size here is huge. So, I […]

Pasta, Side Dish, Vegetarian

Couscous Primavera

Every mom is looking for ways to get some veg into the systems of her offspring. My Couscous Primavera does just that. It’s perfect for a light lunch or a side to any meat, fish or burger.  Zucchini, onion, peas and grape tomatoes are my star veggies in this dish. Lemon juice and fresh basil brighten it up. And a sprinkle of feta at the end gives it a salty […]

Baking, Cookies, Desserts

Lovely Lemon Cookies

Lemon desserts are beloved around here. These Glazed Lemon Cookies from Cooking Classy are no exception. They are light and fluffy and totally addictive. This is a great recipe to make with your kids. Using a cookie scooper helps shape the dough into perfect shaped balls. I recommend using Silpat mats on your baking sheets for best results. You can also line your baking pans with parchment if you do […]

Pasta, Side Dish

Lemon Risotto

Lemon Risotto is one of my favorite sides, especially with fish. Feel free to omit the mascarpone if you can’t find it. But it does add a creamy dreaminess that is divine to the dish. While risotto is not a dish to be made when one is in a rush, it is a sort of zen at the stovetop while stirring and watching the transformation of uncooked rice into glorious […]

Main, Meat, Side Dish, Vegetables

Fancy Pants Pork Chops

Grilled Pork Chops with Black Olive Tapenade and Roasted Summer Vegetables is the perfect dish to welcome in the warm weather. So many peeps love to fire up the grill – but for those of who cook inside such as yours truly – this can easily be done on your handy dandy grill pan. The brine is key. And the chops only need to brine for 30 minutes. The recipe […]