Caprese Salad Stacks

When I first saw the pictures and recipe for this beautiful salad I knew I would have to make it when my fresh basil was ready to be picked.  So, today is the day (6-7-14) to try out this pretty salad using Kumato tomatoes, fresh mozarella, homemade pesto (from last year) and a balsamic glaze. … Continue reading

Cupcakes with Popcorn and Chive Blossoms

When I first read the name of this recipe I said “what” and I just had to investigate further.  Then my curiosity made me want to see what the finished cupcakes tasted like.   This recipe comes from “Cooking With Flowers” by Miche Bacher.  This book is fun, colorful and a good source if you … Continue reading

May Wine with Strawberries and Sweet Woodruff

This is a delightful punch that can be made any time of the year and not just in May.  This traditional wine  is an old libation originating in Germany and is consumed throughout Europe.  I was surprised how many countries celebrate May Day as a springtime celebration with their own unique customs.  Not only do … Continue reading

Master Gardener Volunteer Program

Spring means a lot of different things to me and not just the end of winter. However, this year I think most people in Michigan are happy to see the  warmer weather and no more snow!  Oh sure I love to hear the birds sing, watch the bulbs start to bloom and the trees in bud but  a special interest of mine is the  … Continue reading

Marinara Dipping Sauce

I am posting this recipe at the recent request from a long-time blogging friend.  We were chatting about this type of sauce and she asked if I would post my recipe.   I have not published this one yet so of course I will share it now and the recipe is below.  This one is for you Liz… … Continue reading

Haricots Verts With Pancetta

Haricots Verts, or filet beans,  is French for green beans and they are usually longer and thinner than regular beans such as the bush lake variety.  These slender beans are harvested young, usually when less than 1/8-inch thick.   I use to grow this variety in my big 40 x 120′ garden in the country and as I … Continue reading

Weight Watcher’s Chicken Casserole with Saffron

This is a flavorful Weight Watcher’s casserole full of chicken, veggies, rice and a nice touch with the saffron.  There are 8 PointsPlus per serving which is 1/4 of the dish.  I have been wanting to use some saffron a sister brought back from her trip to Italy, among other things  like tomato seeds for … Continue reading

Creamy Pesto Dip

This dip comes from Town House Pita Crackers found in the Food Network October issue.  As I have mentioned before I am continuously looking for ways to use the pesto I make fresh.  I also froze some this past summer which is what I used over the holidays.  This sounded really good especially with the … Continue reading

Herb and Flower Crystals for Sweet and Savory Dishes

I have always enjoyed cooking/baking with flowers and herbs.  When I saw these crystals recently I thought “what fun” and something new for me as I am always eager to try something different.    Another snow storm is coming today and the coldest weather we have had in 20 years.  Winter is going strong now with 3 months to … Continue reading

Balsamic Vinaigrette Over Homegrown Lettuce

My first harvest of my own Fall lettuce in my raised beds (use to have a 40×120′ garden) and I made a very simple vinaigrette to dress my greens with.  Yes, I planted lettuce – I meant to post some other pictures of what I grew this year (especially my tomatoes) in my (three)  3′ x 6′ raised cedar … Continue reading