I want to extol the virtues of the savory tart. From classic quiche to stunning flamiche, Chicken, Cheddar and Pecan or a seasonal Italian Summer Cherry Tomato. The permutations are endless, which is certainly a large part of the appeal, but for me the savory tart represents exactly what I aspire to in the kitchen most of the time. Beautiful, … [Read more...] about Pear, Leek and Walnut Tart
Fruit
Fig and Blue Cheese Galette
I am a fig fanatic. After the jams and preserves I stock up on every year, I turn to other fig delights, like this packed-with-flavor fig galette. The galette is the perfect vehicle for summer produce, it is simple to put together for a lot of payoff. And to be honest, I love the rustic, hand-formed appearance of pastry just cradling fresh summer farmers market finds. It has … [Read more...] about Fig and Blue Cheese Galette
Nectarine Marzipan Cake
I have read many British recipes over the years that use the term squidgy to describe a cake. It is not perhaps the most literate of terms, but it is perfectly descriptive. I know exactly what it means – soft and moist and rich, dense but in the best possible way. This is a squidgy cake. The almond flour and marzipan add the delicious nutty density while the nectarine slices … [Read more...] about Nectarine Marzipan Cake
Peach Brown Butter Cake
I’ve never been very good at making beautifully frosted layer cakes. In fact, I generally avoid them, turning to Bundt and tube pans for simple and attractive cakes. I don’t have the patience required to beautifully frost towering layers, and it never comes out looking quite like I’d imagined. I take a cue from British bakers with a simple, single layer with a lovely gilding of … [Read more...] about Peach Brown Butter Cake
Lemon Cake with Blueberry Ganache
Drama. That’s what this cake is about. A moist, puckering yellow lemon cake bathed in vivid purple, all naturally hued.. It will produce oohs and aahs when served, and is delicious to boot. Lemon and blueberries are a perfect summer pairing, when the berries are perfectly ripe and in season. I love the combination in my Frozen Lemon Bisque with Blueberry Compote for a … [Read more...] about Lemon Cake with Blueberry Ganache