Why, oh why, am I the only one in this house that loves squash. And believe me, I have tried to prepare it in every which way but still to no avail. What sounds like a no-brainer to me in the department of delicious foods turns out to be a non-starter for the rest of the family. No reason to give in yet, though, at least not with the little ones. Research states that children need repeat exposure to new food, as often as twenty times, before they embrace it. We are at fifty and counting and my efforts are still going strong. Either way, if you love squash, read on; and if not, do so anyway as it may lead you to the enlightened path of squash appreciation – one try at a time. Come and cook with us! Continue reading “Pick me a Delicata, Will You…”
Tag: Recipe
Say Ciao to Chia Seeds
Ok, I’ll admit it. Chia seeds are not for everybody. Or at least not everyone dives head-over-heels into a chia-pudding or chia-filled drink as my son and I do. We love it, whether or not it’s good for you. It’s that gelling action of the seeds when soaked in liquid that appeals to us… while making the other half of the family run away screaming. Have you ever tried them? Well, it’s one of those things that you’ll either love or hate. But what are chia seeds exactly? Well, read on to find out. Come and cook with us! Continue reading “Say Ciao to Chia Seeds”
What’s New on the Menu?
One of the reasons I love my mom’s cooking is that she is the queen of mixing things up. Never will you see the same dish twice within a short period of time. In fact, I never hear even the slightest hint of indecision when it comes to picking her next meal. She just knows, always changing things up, cooking with the seasons and making the most of what she has around. It’s a skill and while I try to use my full repertoire of cook books, I sure could use a little help in keeping the menu new and interesting. Which is why I love the pile of recipe ideas on my desk. These words on paper scream out to me. They want a chance to turn into successful and well-liked dishes so that they can move from anonymity to prominence in my beloved recipe box. This is how I keep things interesting for the boys who are the ultimate hungry guinea-pigs, and luckily very rewarding in their role. Today I’d like to share a few of my latest discoveries which are taking up permanent residency in our menu of ideas. Hope you take them into consideration as well. Come and cook with us! Continue reading “What’s New on the Menu?”
Add some Chives to your Lives
Since returning to California this past week, I spent a considerable amount of time thinking about our trip back to Italy. Whether enjoying time with family, hiking in my beloved mountains or catching up with friends, it feels a little like turning the clock back to my happy childhood. Of the many exciting things we did, our annual ritual visit to our “back-to-basics” hut high up at 7,000 feet was among the best. A wooden stove, a few pots and pans and the most majestic view are enough to turn every day into a unique and memorable experience. Apart from milk and butter provided by three cows who graze the steep hills surrounding the neighboring farmer’s hut, we have to carry up everything we need for nourishment. That is how we learn to make the most with what little we have. One of our most successful menu items, apart from crêpes and buckwheat riebel, are the impossibly simple but unbelievably delicious butter and chive sandwiches. Come and cook with us! Continue reading “Add some Chives to your Lives”
Come and Cook with Us 