Every now and then, someone who sees the wall of cookbook-filled shelves in our kitchen asks if I’ve made something from each book. Sometimes it’s asked in a state of wonder. Sometimes it sounds more judgmental, like why do I have all of these if I don’t use them? No, I haven’t cooked from each book. … View Post
Inside Out Chinese Spring Roll Salad
If you like spring rolls and chopped salads, this is for you. I adapted this creative recipe, the winner of a Chinese-recipe contest on www.betterrecipes.com that combines ingredients found in the fresh spring rolls. Here, the dipping sauce is transformed into dressing. The result is a colorful, crunchy, healthy and light side or main dish. It was just right … View Post
Tuscan Bread Salad (Panzanella)
I first tried making this traditional Italian bread salad a few years ago just because I was intrigued by what I’d read about it. The dressing is tossed with the bread cubes and soaks in, so you’ll want to get a bit of one in every bite. This is my take on a recipe from … View Post
Crab Chowder
This chowder is tasty and creamy without being too guilt-inducing. I made a few changes to a recipe from Fresh and Simple Quick-Simmering Soups from Better Homes and Gardens. (I like the whole Fresh and Simple series, which includes Pasta Pronto, 5 O’Clock Grill and Super Suppers). I added the potato, extra crab (I like … View Post
Summer Pasta Salad with Roasted Vegetables
This recipe makes a veritable vat of pasta salad. As much as we liked it, I knew it was too much for the two of us to eat in a reasonable time, so I trucked some to my book club potluck, and they seemed to enjoy it, too. The recipe is from The Roasted … View Post