Focaccia Garden Art

I’ve been wanting to make this since last year but the summer had ended and many of the edible flowers and herbs were not available in my garden. If you haven’t tried this yet you need to! Get some family or friends and create your own work of art using fresh edible flowers, herbs, veggies … Continue reading

Hibiscus-Lime Vodka Tonic with Homemade Hibiscus Syrup

I’m mainly a wine drinker who also loves a good liqueur and an occasional bloody mary. Recently, I’ve been using edible hibiscus flowers in recipes, such as Hibiscus Tea. So, when my Food Network Magazine had recipes for using edible flowers in cocktails I was inspired to make this and use my homemade hibiscus syrup. … Continue reading

Hibiscus Tea

This recipe came about because Amazon sent me the wrong item. I do like to use flowers in cooking and or baking but never tried anything with hibiscus flowers. The flowers are big and beautiful, trumpet-shaped and are 3-8 inches in diameter with prominent protruding stamens. The plant is constantly with flowers but unfortunately each … Continue reading

Spaghetti with Michigan Tomatoes, Fennel and Zucchini

What better way to wind down the summer season than with a plate of spaghetti, Farmer’s Market tomatoes, fennel and zucchini and my homegrown basil? Just says “summer”. Most of the veggies are roasted but I chose to use fresh tomatoes, peeled and seeded to add at the end with the fresh basil. I added … Continue reading

Fruit Platter with Nuts and Strawberry Cream Dip

For Easter this past year I decided to make a fresh fruit platter. The berries are beginning to “taste” better and I thought this would be the perfect light addition to our meal. Add a few nuts, some chocolate eggs and a delicious creamy strawberry dip. This is the old-fashioned recipe with Cool Whip, Marshmellow … Continue reading

Lavender Loaf Cake With Pistachios, Lime and Lemon

I frequently see recipes I want to make and I will print the recipe and put it in a file to make later. However, there are a few times when I run across a recipe that I want to make right now. Chef Ronit’s lavender loaf cake is one of those recipes. See ronitpenso.wordpress.com/2017/10/15/lavender-pistachio-and-lime-cake/ Funny … 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

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

Lemon Verbena and Mint Iced Tea

You can make tea using many different kinds or combination of herbs or edible flowers.  You just need to experiment and find the flavors you like best.  Herb teas are decaffeinated and so refreshing;  you control what goes in your tea.  Many recipes call for boiling water and pouring over a certain amount of crushed herbs … Continue reading