When I travel, one of my greatest joys is sampling as much of the local food as possible. But on long trips, even I get a little weary. Sometimes I crave more familiar flavors, sometimes I am just too tired to search out a specialty restaurant and just want what’s close. And sometimes, this pays off. I had amazing, perfect pizza in Toledo, Spain because … [Read more...] about Pasta with Gorgonzola, Apples and Walnuts
Chicken Pecan Bites with Blue Cheese Dip
Every community, particularly in the South, has those handful of classic community cookbooks that everyone seems to own, or haveaccess to, or just know about. They are the reference points for the community table. Compiled by church auxiliaries, symphony leagues, historic societies, these treasure troves bind a community through the most essential love we all share. Food. … [Read more...] about Chicken Pecan Bites with Blue Cheese Dip
Bobotie (South African Curried Beef and Lamb Casserole)
In my family, when we travel, we all have assignments. Subjects to learn about, information to share with the group. Yes, homework for vacation. Laugh all you want, but it has made for some really interesting trips. I am generally given the topic of food. I search out restaurants, food customs, typical local fare and markets. And the training of my … [Read more...] about Bobotie (South African Curried Beef and Lamb Casserole)
Drunk Tank Shrimp
I dug into the archives for this recipe. When I was fresh out of graduate school, living in my first apartment, this was a dinner party staple for me. I guess I thought it was sophisticated, cooking with liquor. I always cooked it in my one ceramic baking dish, and served it with rice. I have no idea where the recipe came from, but I copied it out into my vine-patterned … [Read more...] about Drunk Tank Shrimp
Garlic Goddess Potato Salad
A good potato salad is something of an essential for the backyard cookout or grilling session. It can be made ahead, and adds that substantial heft to a burger or hot dog plate. And a homemade potato salad is so much better than a bag of cheap chips. Served next to a steak, it’s downright elegant. A very good cook I know, with, let’s say a few more years of wisdom than … [Read more...] about Garlic Goddess Potato Salad
