Fava Bean Purée

I can’t say I’ve ever been a ‘real’ fan of fava beans…it stems from my childhood intense dislike for lima beans.  Whenever mom would place mixed veggies on my plate I seemed to always get all of the lima beans – how could that be I used to ask myself when I had three other…

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Strawberry Cupcakes

Fresh strawberries always remind me of summer.  As a child I distinctly recall picking wild strawberries in my grandparents’ field…this was not an easy task as it would take forever to pick a pint (wild strawberries are tiny!).  All the whinging that took place was soon placated by strawberry shortcake topped with sweetened whipped cream…

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Cold Asparagus Soup

This an an easy recipe to follow and is without cream for those who are lactose intolerant.   I enjoy preparing meals that take little effort and taste great.  Asparagus is a nutrient-rich veggie full of vitamins as well as anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant benefits. Serves 4 one large leek, washed and choppedclove of garlic, chopped 4…

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Fresh Cherry Relish and Goat Cheese Crostini

It’s been a sticky, hot Memorial Day weekend.  Summer officially arrives on the 20th of June but it already feels as though it’s here.   Warmer weather equals relaxed cooking – less time in the kitchen (hopefully) and more time devoted to being outdoors.  This appetizer is super easy to throw together and the flavors will…

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Smashed Potato Cakes with Watercress and Mascarpone

My husband loves his spuds but I can go a long time without eating one.  Over the years I seemed to have drifted away from this starchy, tuberous crop.  Don’t get me wrong, I love mashed potatoes with gravy from a good roast, french fries, potato chips or when I make gnocchi…I just don’t share…

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Seared Scallops with Warm Radicchio and Pancetta

Radicchio (rah-DEE-kee-oh) is a garden plant from the north of Italy and is also known as red chicory. It offers a spicy bitterness that can add a bite to dishes when used raw, or that can be tamed through grilling or roasting. Radicchio is a good source of vitamin B and vitamin C, calcium and…

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Pear Fritters with Lemon and Ginger

I have to admit that growing up I wasn’t too keen on pears.  But as an adult I have come to enjoy them in savory and sweet dishes.  Pears are not only juicy and sweet but are a good source of vitamin C and copper (helps protect the body from free radical damage).  They’re also…

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