Sitting in a cafe by myself, working away at my laptop, is exactly what I’ve been daydreaming about for months. But now that I’m here, focus escapes me—or at least focus on what I’m supposed to be doing. I can’t stop opening my phone. `
Recent Posts
Introducing Siena Rose Marie
Marinated Cucumber Tomato Salad
This light and refreshing salad packs a tangy punch, but has just enough sweetness to balance out the pucker factor. Crunchy cucumbers and onions mingle with juicy tomatoes and summery herbs to make a colorful side for family dinner, or the perfect easy pot luck dish.
Holy pho, life has been moving lightning fast lately for our family.
Caldo de Pollo (Mexican Chicken Soup)
A refreshing yet satisfying soup featuring tender chicken, savory tomatoes and warming peppers. A twist of lime and avocado slices keep things feeling light and fresh. When I was in college, I lived like a lot of college students: in a terrible, no-good, very bad apartment. It flooded every year or so for various different reasons.
Tricolore Pear Salad
Sweet, soft pears and pine nuts complement a mix of buttery, nutty and bitter lettuces dressed in a simple balsamic vinaigrette. Summer isn’t over yet and I’m trying to squeeze out every last drop, but… fall has undeniably started creeping into my thoughts. Maybe it’s just from spending the majority of my life in school and teaching, but once August hits everything goes into overdrive, hurtling toward September like a defensive end on a pass rush…
Brambleberry Lavender Dutch Baby
A puffy-centered, crisp-edged oven-baked pancake flavored with soft lavender and filled with bright berry compote. Top with lavender whipped cream for ultimate brunch-master status. I don’t know if you’ve been getting the days-long downpour I’ve been working with this week, but either way, I’ve got a recipe that never fails to brighten my day: I give you the Brambleberry Lavender Dutch Baby…
Date Night Peach-Glazed Pork Chops
Cowboy cut pork chops seared to perfection in a sweet peach sauce with just enough spice to keep things interesting. A showstopper for date nights in, or you can slice the chops to feed up to four. What’s better than a night out on the town? How about one where no one has to find parking, everyone gets a big juicy pork chop with a sweet, peachy glaze, and no one has to drive home after eating said deliciousness…
Cheesy Fusilli with Tomatoes and Sausage
Pasta in a creamy parmesan sauce, topped with roasted tomatoes, spicy sausage and nutty arugula. Simple enough to throw together tonight, flavorful enough to make again for company this weekend. I’ve had a whole lot to celebrate lately. Between the little girl we’re expecting in November and all the excitement that comes with planning, visits with loved ones, and a slew of weddings—including three of my bridesmaids…
Summer Party Panzanella
This Italian bread salad boasts the best summer garden bounties and toasted bread cubes, all tossed in a tangy white wine vinaigrette. It’s big enough to bring to your block party—and keeps well enough to keep all to yourself. Is there any better feeling than walking out to the garden on a sunny day, picking a juicy cucumber, rinsing it off, and eating it right then and there like an apple?
