Life With a Little Spice

Disney Pixar’s Ratatouille is one of my favorite movies not only because it features the adorable rodent Remy exploring his way through the wide world of human culinary craft, but because of the way the storyline celebrates the true art of creating food. Not just any food, but wholesome dishes, made from fresh and simple […]

Brussels sprouts: Forget those repulsive watery orbs your grandmother plopped on your plate and give her a taste of your medicine this Thanksgiving – trust us, she’ll thank you. These sprouts are anything but mushy – pan-fried in olive oil, the leaves become brown and crispy, while the center remains tender and juicy. Simmered in […]

Sweet potato casserole is a staple sugary side dish on Thanksgiving, but these spuds are so sweet on their own, why not whip up a batch without gooey, sticky marshmallows on top? Sweet potatoes highlight the vibrant orange hue so reminiscent of the season, making them not only appealing to the palate but to the […]

Cole slaw is a staple side dish for any barbecue, but all too often the cabbage looses its crunch due to heaping dollops of mayonnaise. This crisp, oil-based slaw combines sweet Honeycrisp apples and real sugar, spicy red onion, and biting cider vinegar, making it a great side for your favorite grilled or BBQ meat. Even […]

At some point in everyone’s life, they will hear, “Not until you finish your vegetables.” But why would you even start your vegetables if what was in front of you was a pile of mushy, watery boiled Brussels sprouts? These improperly prepared orbs are largely responsible for the abundant population of meat n’ potatoes lovers […]

If you love spice like I do, sometimes a good sloppy burrito is all that will satisfy that fiery craving. This recipe can easily be adapted for meat lovers (just use shredded beef or pork) or non-meat eaters – use extra-firm tofu, cut into cubes then baked so it doesn’t turn to mush, or just […]

These vibrant orbs are a staple in my kitchen as they add a little zest and spice to almost any dish. Looking at a bell pepper, however, provides no indication of flavor, use, or even how to get to the inside. But fear not my novice chefs, while your technique may need a little time […]

This simple salad, which originally hails from the Italian region of Campana, is a staple for summer, especially if you have a garden. Fresh-plucked tomatoes cannot compare to store-bought, and the same goes for basil. The sweet juice from ruby-red tomatoes is complemented by generous chunks of mozzarella, fresh basil leaves, olive oil and a […]

Summer weather is prime grilling time and with backyard BBQs or pool parties top of mind for many, a host must have a handful of standby side dishes to whip up for guests. This healthier broccoli bacon salad is sure to please both veggie and meat lovers alike. Slightly steamed broccoli is combined with smokey […]

When it’s hot, turning on the oven is about the last thing you want to do. Relax and pour yourself a glass of Chardonnay, (Recommended: La Crema Chardonnay, Russian River Valley) no cooking is required in this recipe, unless you roast your own chicken (see below). This salad combines fresh baby spinach, tender chicken, crisp […]