Spring is a marvelous time for entertaining, and I like to make the most of the seasonal produce like fresh asparagus. This elegant little torte is delicious and unusual, but highlights the lovely flavor of spring’s best asparagus. I add just a little lemon zest and shallot to bring out that freshness because I find the addition of herbs or spices unnecessarily overpowers the … [Read more...] about Spring Asparagus Torte
cheesecake
Savory Butternut and Sage Cheesecake
Savory cheesecake is a thing. A few years ago, in support of my cookbook Southern Snacks, I appeared on Hallmark Channel’s Home & Family show to make my country ham cheesecake, and everyone was rather surprised (and dubious) of the concept. I won them over however. I love a savory cheesecake – it’s a fabulous party piece. It serves a crowd, can be made ahead, and with … [Read more...] about Savory Butternut and Sage Cheesecake
Salted Honey Cheesecake
I never want to relegate honey to the background, simply one of many ways to sweeten. Good, local honey has such depth of flavor and so many nuances that I really want to highlight it and make it the star of a dessert. This creamy cheesecake does just that. I love that the honey shines through, and the little sprinkling of flaky salt just enhances the honeyed sweetness. I … [Read more...] about Salted Honey Cheesecake
Roasted Carrot Ginger Cheesecake
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
Peach Amaretto Cheesecake
I accidently bought 25 pounds of peaches. I’ve been reading about these peaches from a certain farm that only come to Memphis twice a season. People rave about these peaches. I missed any notification that they were coming, but then one day going about my own business, I got stuck in traffic behind cars turning into a nursery and saw the big sign advertising the peaches. So I … [Read more...] about Peach Amaretto Cheesecake
