Recipe Roundup: The Living Is Easy

Summer is finally, officially here - and while the days will be hot and full of activity, you'll still need to eat eventually, right? Thankfully, produce will be at its best over the coming months. You will want to enjoy most of it as fresh as possible, but here are some alternatives in case your crops runneth over :-)

Heirloom Tomato Cobbler: Yes, that's correct. After all, tomatoes are still a fruit! This is a great savory side dish, and an excellent use for tomatoes that may be a tad past their prime.

Lemon-Rosemary Zucchini Bread: Instead of heavy spices, this zucchini bread uses flavors you might associate with lots of sun, gentle breezes, and breathtaking views of the ocean.

Summer Fruit Cobbler: the sweet version of cobbler you grew up with, and the simplest version of cobbler I know.

Homemade Ice Cream: sinfully easy, and no special equipment needed!

Ginger Beer Highball: Crisp and refreshing, perfect at the end of a long Summer day.

>o<

Menu Roundup: Out Like a Lamb

Who knew March could be such a hectic, overwhelming month? I certainly did not! So, in an effort to keep calm and get things back on track, here's an easy, casual menu idea that can be used to entertain guests AND restore your soul :-)

Garlic and Chive Dip: A delicious make-ahead starter to serve with crusty bread, good crackers, or veggie sticks. It's up to you how much garlic you use - just be sure to warn your guests ahead of time!

Ham and Cheese Strata: Another excellent make-ahead, where you can tailor the ingredients to suit your needs. It keeps well in the fridge, and reheats beautifully, covered in foil, in a low oven.

Catalan Spinach: These sweet-and-savory greens cook up in just a few minutes, making a last-minute side dish that's stress-free as well as absolutely delicious.

Individual Pumpkin Custards: Warming spices make these creamy custards comforting and satisfying—and they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, so they're always ready when you are!

>o<

Recipe Roundup: Sweet Madness

Looking for something sweet to tempt your true love this weekend—or simply to enjoy by yourself??? Give one of these scrumptious treats a go!

Glazed Brown Sugar-Cinnamon Scones: What could be better than starting the day with brown sugar and cinnamon?

Cocoa-Cherry Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies: The name says it all—and yes, it's all in there!

Chestnut-Chocolate Wafers: Chestnut puree gives these cookies a subtly sweet, sophisticated flavor that pairs perfectly with bittersweet chocolate.

Pistachio Bars: Both salty and sweet, these decadent little bars are great with a cup of coffee or tea for a little pick-me-up in the afternoon.

Individual Chocolate Cakes: A simple but effective showstopper, and they taste as good as they look!

>o<

Recipe Roundup: The Final Countdown

Thanksgiving is just days away, and chances are you have your menu planned and ingredients stocked for the big day. And yet, maybe you'd like just a few more items on offer to round out the meal and ensure all your guests have something they can enjoy. Of course, these add-ons better be quick, easy, and absolutely scrumptious, too!

Cheese and Dates: You can't go wrong with two ingredients, especially when they pair as well as these do. I personally love an aged cheddar with the dates, but any cheese will be perfect. Vegetarian/Gluten-Free

Salami and Cream Cheese: Another two-ingredient wonder - just keep the components stashed in the fridge, and you're moments away from making as few or as many as you need! Gluten-Free

Catalan Spinach: Amazingly simple and unbelievably fast, but also bursting with great flavor. This dish can be whipped up while the turkey rests and the other sides are reheating in the oven. Vegetarian/Vegan/Gluten-Free

Cranberry-Orange Sauce: Easily made in advance and stashed in the fridge in anticipation of the big day. Any leftover sauce can be reheated and spooned over store-bought ice cream or pound cake for a stress-free dessert. Vegetarian/Vegan/Gluten-Free (if using Cointreau, water, or juice for the liquid)

Individual Pumpkin Custards: A make-ahead treat that stores and transports easily, already portioned and ready to eat! Vegetarian/Gluten-Free

>o<

Recipe Roundup: Let's Do Brunch

As the days grow longer, it's natural to be out and about more, enjoying the sun and fresh air. Of course, you'll still want to sleep in on the weekends! Eventually, you'll also need to eat, and that means indulging in the best meal ever invented: brunch. Here's a selection of both sweet and savory items, perfect for Saturdays and Sundays - or any day you want something comforting :-)

Ham and Cheese Strata: My go-to, one-dish meal that's as easy as it is forgiving. A great way to reinvent those odds and ends hanging out in the fridge as well.

Salmon and White Bean Salad: Simple and satisfying, with lots of protein to keep you going for the day - even if you're just lazing on the couch ;-)

Heirloom Tomato Cobbler: A savory twist on a classic. If tomatoes aren't in season, use your favorite cooked/grilled vegetables in their place.

Brown Sugar-Cinnamon Scones: The name says it all - and what could be better?

Maple-Pecan Breakfast Muffins: Easy, sweet, and full of flavor. Like a pancake you can hold in your hand!

>o<

Recipe Roundup: Nibbles and Bits

Whether you're putting out a huge spread for the big game, hosting a cocktail party, or just having a few friends over for drinks, make sure you have a few tasty morsels on hand to round out the rest of your menu!

The Union Square Cafe's Bar Nuts: You can't go wrong with this little nibble—easy to make, and even easier to eat, these will please your guests to no end (or at least until the end of the evening).

Cheddar Buttons: Who says you can't make your own cheesy crackers? Customize these by using your favorite cheese, and add herbs and spices to suit your palate (pepper jack would be a great cheese option here).

Cheese and Dates: Simple, yet effective. Again, the choice of cheese is yours—or make several kinds if you can't decide. Try using dried figs or apricots in addition to dates as well.

Pistachio Bars: Don't forget dessert! Use your favorite roasted, salted nuts in place of the pistachios, or a combination of nuts for even more flavor. Either way, the salty-sweet combination is sure to be a (dare I say it?) touchdown!

>o<