I have to eat these in private because I cannot get them in my mouth fast enough (the resulting fist-in-mouth can be quite embarrassing). If you make enough to share, these ginger-infused pecans are awesome for pre-dinner munching with cocktails.
I sometimes package them in cellophane with twine, colorful ribbon or handmade labels for a nice [...]

In a pinch, Sangria is a pleasant, unexpected surprise, giving cheer to any meal. Sangria reminds me of champagne, a drink with a reputation for celebration. The myth being you need a reason to celebrate; I think we just need to celebrate more often without a given reason. Besides, this is so easy to pour [...]

True! My niece didn’t have a birthday cake or even a cupcake for her first birthday. My family took the risk of assigning dessert-making to me, so my niece ended up with a pumpkin banana tart with piles of whipping cream (inspired by and nod to Barefoot Contessa, Family Style). The celebration actually engulfed [...]

This is the kind of appetizer that brings accolades due to great flavor and mouth-popping ease. You will need skewers; I use the wooden variety.
My boys loved eating these little bites and can roll and wrap and thread them with ease. You can make them ahead by a day; cover and store in fridge. The [...]

Blue Cheese Dressing for a salad with romaine lettuce and dried cranberries. Blue Cheese Dressing for a salad of romaine lettuce and fresh dill. Blue Cheese Dipping Sauce in a small bowl for dipping with steak skewers (or spread on burgers with bacon—yum!). It keeps for 1-2 weeks. Store in a jar. Note to self: [...]