Cookies

Sand Lake Cookies

My friend Margit brought these to me at an impromptu Halloween party in 1999 at my house. I thought they looked "interesting," but oh when I tasted them... They were great! Margit's family used to go to Sand Lake in Minnesota every summer and would bring these cookies, thus the name. They are almost like… Continue reading Sand Lake Cookies

Cookies

Peanut Butter Stars

These are a must for the holidays and my husband's favorites. I've had many versions, but these are the best, courtesy of my friend Sandy, who also says it isn't Christmas in her house without these! Peanut Butter Star Cookies Makes 3 dozen cookies 1/2 cup sugar 1/2 cup brown sugar 1/4 cup margarine or… Continue reading Peanut Butter Stars

Breakfast · Salty

Chili Egg Puff Breakfast Casserole

We would not steer you wrong.  Egg casseroles are a dime a dozen, and this is a clear winner.  I think it is from my friend Sandy in Portland, but it's been so long, who knows now. I follow the directions, except that sometimes I add some good diced ham for another all-in-one meal. If… Continue reading Chili Egg Puff Breakfast Casserole

Vegetarian/General

Butternut Squash Lasagna

I'm crazy about butternut squash, especially when I find it already peeled and cubed. This recipe isn't exactly quick, but it makes 2 pretty big ones, so  you have an extra for the freezer or for a friend. It's another Cooking Light recipe, with only 254 calories per portion. But don't hold this against it.… Continue reading Butternut Squash Lasagna

Breakfast · Sweet

The Best Spiced Pumpkin Bread

This is my go-to pumpkin bread recipe, from Epicurious - originally appearing in Bon Appetit. It makes two smallish loaves, perfect to freeze one. Or up your organization game by making 4 small loaves. Then you can give the illusion of being a great hostess by popping them out of the freezer anytime! They're great… Continue reading The Best Spiced Pumpkin Bread

Poultry

The World’s Best Chili

It's cold in Texas, and I am in the mood for chili! I have made this recipe for years since having it at my Portland neighbor Stacy's house. It's flexible! My neighbor served it over rice, but in our house, we opt for Fritos. I usually use turkey, but you can use beef. And although… Continue reading The World’s Best Chili

Vegetarian/General

Garlic-Mushroom Saute with Fontina Pizza

This is another great pizza topping from my Portland wine tasting group. Simple, delicious and a bit fancy, depending on the mushrooms you use. 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil 4 cloves garlic, chopped 1/2 wild mushrooms, sliced 4 t. chives, chopped fine 4 t. parsley, chopped fine Fresh ground pepper, to taste 1/4 Parmesan cheese… Continue reading Garlic-Mushroom Saute with Fontina Pizza

Vegetarian/General

Gorgonzola, Pear & Almond Pizza

This pizza is so unique, you won't believe it. It is for serious pizza lovers and foodies only. If you have a pizza party, serve it last, since it has that sweet/salty/crunchy texture that would be a perfect finish. Just make sure you leave room; it's definitely rich! The toppings are for a 12" pizza;… Continue reading Gorgonzola, Pear & Almond Pizza

Vegetarian/General

Fioravanti Pizza Sauce

My friend Kara is Italian and a great cook. Here's the pizza sauce she uses. Easy and yummy. 4 cloves garlic, chopped 1/2 yellow onion, chopped 1 can tomato paste 1 can peeled tomatoees Put in pan and saute for 5 minutes or much longer. Blend. Freeze extra if you like.

Vegetarian/General

Classic Pizza Dough

Pizza is one of my favorite food, and I have enjoyed making homemade pizzas for years with this pizza dough. Nothing is more fun than inviting over a few couples, having them bring some toppings, then bellying up to the pizza-making bar. 1 cup lukewarm water 2 T. olive oil 1 packet dry yeast 3… Continue reading Classic Pizza Dough