A sweet carrot dessert always seems the most appropriate finale for an Easter celebration. Beautiful bright orange carrots are a harbinger of spring, plus a sweet carrot treat may attract the Easter bunny (I am assuming the bunny was vaccinated at the same time as Santa Claus!). To me, this cheesecake is a sophisticated twist for a festive holiday spread. Not that I have any … [Read more...] about Roasted Carrot Ginger Cheesecake
Holiday Cooking
Savory Irish Cheddar Shortbread Bars
I’m posting these delicious cheddar shortbread bars in time for St. Patrick’s Day, because I think the parsley has a festive look of shamrocks. The frilly leaves bake right onto the top of the shortbread. Also, they are really good with a glass of beer! In fact, these crumbly cheese bites are a perfect pre-dinner snack or a side for any cocktail. They would also be perfect … [Read more...] about Savory Irish Cheddar Shortbread Bars
Beef and Stout Stew with Blue Cheese Dumplings
We are in that in between time weatherwise right now. We’ve just had historic snow here in Memphis, but the first signs of spring are popping up. All the sweaters and coats I wore just a week ago are ready to go back in the closet. I have been socially distancing on my patio all winter, but now it’s time for a spring clean and I am looking forward to lazy cocktails and light … [Read more...] about Beef and Stout Stew with Blue Cheese Dumplings
Savory Crawfish King Cake
One of my favorite Mardi Gras traditions is king cake. Big rings of pillowy pastry with a sweet filling and a vividly decorated sugary frosting. My brother went to college and New Orleans, and during my first year at college in Connecticut, he shipped me a king cake and continued to do so while I was in school (and some years after). It was the classic cinnamon filling, which … [Read more...] about Savory Crawfish King Cake
Hot Crab Remoulade Dip
Mardi Gras is approaching, and like everything else these days, it’s going to be different. I won’t be celebrating with a big crowd, and in New Orleans the parades have been cancelled. But in true Mardi Gras spirit, the people of New Orleans have gotten creative this year, hiring local artists to decorate houses like parade floats. I encourage you to check out #yardigras and … [Read more...] about Hot Crab Remoulade Dip
