As a middle child, I tend to be a people pleaser. But at the same time, I don’t like to be boxed in. As important as rules can be, for the most part, they are simply guidelines.
make ahead
Roasted Tomato and Garlic Bolognese Sauce
It is so much fun to see how Kristina has surpassed me – by light years – when it comes to cooking. She is creative and instinctive, and possesses the natural ability to invent adventurous (and wonderful!) culinary combinations.
Lazy Day Cabbage Rolls – Kåldolmar
So, I’m totally NOT into labour-intensive food these days. Summertime is for playing, spending time outdoors, hanging out with friends, and traveling.
Red Hot Turkey Chili
Have you ever noticed that the nearer a country is to the Equator, the spicier the food is? It seems like hot food in hot weather makes people cooler and more comfortable. That’s logical, I guess!
Easy Enchiladas
I recently saw a map of the U.S. showing the most commonly spoken languages besides English, and found that more Minnesotans speak Spanish and Hmong than any other foreign language.
It is only logical that states like Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont would have French as their most common foreign language, due to proximity to Quebec. It also makes sense that Ohio and North Dakota would have many German speakers because of immigration patterns and Amish population.
Ground Turkey and Fennel Chili
Is it pathetic that I’m not quite ready for warm weather? I haven’t gotten nearly enough indoor projects done, and I will always, always love soup season.
Roasted Squash and Carrot Soup
This was one of those crazy, fun, exhausting, wonderful weekends. My younger sister has been visiting from Alaska, and we were able to get much of the family together. Great food, lots of laughter, and a game of extreme four-square rounded off the day. 🙂
Tuscan Fennel Minestrone
Here it is — the day before Holy Week begins, and as a church musician, I am swamped, but loving every minute of the season. Even though we aren’t getting a blizzard – and all the snow/ice is gone – it’s still a perfect day for SOUP!
Pastel Mint Dessert
Every family has its black sheep — the person that didn’t really follow the norm but went their own way. Not that there’s anything wrong with being different and not conforming, but sometimes the contrast is so drastic it’s comical. That’s Grandpa’s younger sister, “Margit”.
Big Batch of Bourbon Baked Beans
I never have to look far to find a reason (excuse???) to invite people over for a party. Someone’s birthday? Let’s party! The house is clean? Let’s party! It’s above zero degrees? Let’s party! Taxes are done? LET’S PARTY!
