From April through October, during farmers market season, I rarely visit the produce section of the grocery store. Why bother when there is so much beautiful, fresh, in season produce at the markets. I only seek out a few things that don’t grow here. Lemons and limes, cherries from Michigan and Washington (I call to see when shipments arrive to get them as fresh as … [Read more...] about Chilled Vidalia Onion Soup
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Hachis Parmentier (French Cottage Pie)
My introduction to this French country dish was, oddly, in London. And the first time I had it, I had never heard of it. Since my graduate school days, I have made an annual pilgrimage to London, extending the trip each year, to spend enough time to settle in and not feel rushed or overwhelmed. Sure, I go to museums and historical sights and see friends, but my main focus, … [Read more...] about Hachis Parmentier (French Cottage Pie)
Crispy Picnic Slaw
Years ago, during my event planning days, I helped a client plan a lovely riverside party, with a good old-fashioned fish fry. This client was very particular. About everything. But particularly about slaw. He insisted on vinegar-based slaw, not mayonnaise dressed. The caterer took copious notes on his slaw pronouncements and produced what I (and everyone else who ate it) … [Read more...] about Crispy Picnic Slaw
Roasted Vegetable Stracciatella
Italian egg-drop soup. That’s how I have heard versions of this soup described. And there appear to be many versions, with light chicken broth, or added spinach or chicken. In fact, the first time I concocted this soup, I didn’t know stracciatella was an actual thing. It was pure kitchen happenstance, and one little discovery I am glad to have made. My … [Read more...] about Roasted Vegetable Stracciatella
Almost-Too-French Onion Soup
French Onion Soup is such a classic. It’s what you eat on your first trip to France, and even if you eat it at the restaurant down the street at home all the time, it is still special and memorable. Soupe à L’oignon Gratinée. The rich onion-y broth, the crispy bread soaking up the flavor, the gooey melted cheese dripping off your spoon. It’s delicious to savor and fun to … [Read more...] about Almost-Too-French Onion Soup