The Peabody Hotel in downtown Memphis is known as the South’s Grand Hotel. And it is grand, with its marble lobby complete with of fountain to which ducks are paraded in and out twice a day. The Peabody was restored and re-opened in 1981 after a storied history of decline and resuscitation. I have been to many events at the Peabody, from wedding receptions to conferences to … [Read more...] about Vanilla Bean Mini Muffins with Blueberry Dip
summer
Fresh Peach Bars
Fresh summer peaches are the best sweet I know. And I am always testing out new ways to make the most of them. And I think this is a pretty novel one. A bouncy layer of peach-rich curd baked on a sugar cookie crust. Not quite like a lemon bar, but in the general vicinity. But the real bonus right in the middle of a hot and busy summer is how easy these are to make. Spin up the … [Read more...] about Fresh Peach Bars
Sweet Corn Cheesecake with a Popcorn Crust
One of the great joys of summer is truly fresh corn, right from the field to the market. Those fresh kernels, so soon after being picked, are sweet and juicy and bursting. I gorge myself in July and August, from corn puddings to salads, but of course right of the cob smothered in butter and salt. But I think the sweet side is too often overlooked in favor of … [Read more...] about Sweet Corn Cheesecake with a Popcorn Crust
Creole Chicken Salad
So here’s a chicken salad a little on the zesty side. Chicken cooked coated in a healthy dose of Creole seasoning for zip is mixed with the trinity of Creole cooking, celery, green bell pepper and onion (milder green onion in this case) and coated in a peppy dressing of mayonnaise and Creole mustard with as much hot sauce as you can manage. I add some crunchy toasted pecans for … [Read more...] about Creole Chicken Salad
Blueberry Vanilla Bars
I really love the incredibly vivid blue hue of these summery sweet treats. And even more so because it is totally natural, not food coloring needed. Reducing pureed blueberries concentrates both the sweet flavor and the color, creating these surprising and delicious bars. I love a healthy dose of speckled vanilla bean paste, though extract works as well, to complement the … [Read more...] about Blueberry Vanilla Bars
