Creamy Basil Dressing

Basil season is over here in Michigan and what better way to use this flavorful herb than in a vinaigrette. Saying goodbye to summer… I served this salad with a Paradiso Reserve, Caramelized Onion and Prosciutto Pizza…  

Limoncello Vinaigrette

I seem to be on a roll using Limoncello in recipes – I guess you can tell I just love it. This vinaigrette is a perfect combination of sweet (Limoncello), tart (lemon juice and zest) and fiery (red pepper flakes). This recipe from Genius Kitchen would also be delicious with seafood. I served this fresh … Continue reading

Mafaldine Pasta With Potatoes, Green Beans and Pesto

Does this recipe say summer, or what! This is a favorite Italian pasta dish loved by many and Marcella Hazan said no single dish is more delicious in the entire Italian pasta repertory. I certainly can see why and you will too if you make it. This recipe uses a method of preparing pasta with … Continue reading

Capellini with Burrata, Prosciutto, Tomatoes and Basil

While looking through my reader I came across this pasta recipe from Johanne https://frenchgardenerdishes.com/2016/09/08/late-harvest-pasta-with-creamy-burrata-and-salami/ The Burrata cheese caught my attention and I had to explore further. This cheese resembles a fresh  Mozzarella ball, but when you cut into you will discover a very rich filling of soft Mozzarella pieces soaked in heavy cream. You heard … Continue reading

Zucchini, Tomatoes, Pesto and Queso Blanco Cheese

This is the time of the year when there is an abundance of fresh vegetables and herbs in my garden and the markets. When I first saw this recipe I was immediately drawn in at the word “pesto”.  A flavorful ingredient to perk up a side dish like this. What a perfect way to use … Continue reading

Cooking Tidbits – Keeping Pesto Green

Since it is “pesto season”, at least here in Michigan I thought I would share some ways to keep your basil green or to preserve it for later use. This is by far one of my favorite herbs and every year I make a bunch for different recipes and then as the season is winding … Continue reading

Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto Two Ways

On a recent trip to my Farmers Market there were some new vendors selling their products.  I am a big fan of supporting and buying any  Michigan products.  One was the Pure Harvest Pesto Company located in New Hudson, Michigan who makes sun-dried tomato and basil pesto (their two pestos are available at Busch’s).   The other  … Continue reading

Edible Flowers

During the summer months in Michigan I love to use these little gems of summer in my cooking.  I have a number of recipes where I have used edible flowers and I will not list them all except for the ones below.   As my edible flowers bloom I will add pictures and suggestions on what … Continue reading