What is more classic at a Christmas party than spinach artichoke dip? Remember when serving it from a hollowed out round of bread was the height of party innovation? I wanted to create a familiar classic with an updated twist, so I added in creamy brie cheese for a little extra punch and richness (it is the holidays after all). A spritz of lemon, a little garlic, leafy parsley … [Read more...] about Spinach, Artichoke and Brie Spread
cream cheese
Spring Asparagus Torte
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
Spiced Carrot Cake Bars
Easter season is the perfect time for carrot cakes. But I will admit, I am a little too lazy to make beautiful layered version swathed in cream cheese frosting, decorated with icing or marzipan carrots. I tend to go for bundt or tube cakes, like these Carrot Ginger or Carrot Coconut version. My other cheat is these lovely bars packed with carrots then gently … [Read more...] about Spiced Carrot Cake Bars
Pear, Leek and Walnut Tart
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
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
