And now to focus on the humble side dish. It’s easy to spend a lot of thought and time on a showstopping main, or to build a meal around it. But a delicious side dish can make a meal special, and I even think it’s worth building the rest of the meal around a dish like this creamy orzo. Its great beside a simple roasted chicken or pork tenderloin, but you can serve it as the … [Read more...] about Roasted Garlic and Spinach Orzo
Dinner
Paloma Shrimp (Shrimp in Grapefruit and Tequila)
A paloma is a delicious cocktail made with tequila and grapefruit juice, topped with grapefruit soda or sparkling water. I love a paloma almost more than a margarita. And this fantastic combination of tart-sweet citrus and punchy tequila is a perfect paring for fresh shrimp. I think this dish is a great way to hold on to the fading end of summer at home, pretending you are at a … [Read more...] about Paloma Shrimp (Shrimp in Grapefruit and Tequila)
Farmers Market Cornbread
Summer is slowly (slowly) moving toward autumn, and the peak bounty of high summer farmers market produce is starting to taper off in anticipation of the fall harvest. There are still tomatoes, corn, peaches, peppers, but not for long. And though I love eating seasonal, I am close to having had my fill, ready for the winter squashes, apples and pears. I’ve put up all my summer … [Read more...] about Farmers Market Cornbread
Bacon Creamed Zipper Peas
Rotund little zipper peas are possibly my favorite field pea, sweetly round jewels of flavor. I just love the little creamy pop of summer in every bite. I buy them in bulk during the summer season, eat them right way and freeze a huge supply for the winter. Cooking with an onion, some garlic, a piece of bacon or country ham is my quick fix, but this rich creamy dish is an extra … [Read more...] about Bacon Creamed Zipper Peas
Shrimp, Orzo and Feta Salad
I love a hearty cold pasta salad in the summer. This version is inspired by the classic Greek flavors of shrimp, feta and tomatoes, which is a favorite combination for me. The fresh tomato vinaigrette and pops of salty feta marry with Greek-inspired herbs, with a little fennel for crunch and bite. Hearty enough to serve on its own, but you could also scoop into lettuce leaves … [Read more...] about Shrimp, Orzo and Feta Salad
