Quinoa with Pomegranates and Pistachios

One reason I love Thanksgiving weekend is that I don't cook at all.  We're about to head down to Baltimore to visit our respective families and the minute I step out of the car, I assume the role of guest for the entire weekend.  It is a bit odd, the one non-denominational holiday that revolves around food and I'm not cooking at all.  But, I've come to relish in the fact that while other kitchens are brimming with activity and wafting with the aromas from the delicious medley of food, my kitchen is completely closed. While I'm not cooking, I … [Read more...]

Pasta Pilaf-Stuffed Squash

While you're planning out your festive meal, don't forget about the side dishes that are even more important than the turkey--- especially if you have vegetarians at your table. If you want to take your Thanksgiving to the next level, check out this recipe that makes a festive addition to any side table. Your guests will be begging for leftovers. Save Print Pasta Pilaf-Stuffed Squash Author: adapted from pastafits.org Recipe type: Side Dish Prep time:  12 mins Cook time:  45 mins Total time:  57 mins … [Read more...]

Blueberry Cucumber Feta Salad

This weekend we were entertaining guests and I wanted to have some lunch options that weren't dependent on sliced meats or grill meats.  I was fixated on summer salads- light, refreshing, with a surprise burst of fruit to boot.  The Blueberry Cucumber Salad was a hit! Blueberries always have a reserved spot in our refrigerator shelf because, in addition to their sweet, delectable flavor and visual appeal, they are jam-packed with good nutrition too!  Virtually fat free, they’re a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin C and an excellent … [Read more...]

Passover: Haroseth with Pears, Pecans & Figs

This is the best haroseth recipe I've made (or eaten)- and I'm not biased!  Sometimes haroseth can be too nutty with not enough fruit flavor.  This particular recipe strikes the perfect balance. Every spring, when I find myself in the kitchen making a new batch of haroseth for the upcoming seder, I cannot figure out why I only eat this amazingly flavorful fruit dish only two days out of the entire year.  It should NOT only be designated for this holiday. Like many other dishes I’ve tackled, once in the kitchen and confronted with the … [Read more...]