Roasted Eggplant Charlotte – And A Plug For ALS Research

I’m experiencing something that is really frustrating for an aspiring food writer – I have recipe block.  I keep looking at my fridge, buying ingredients, and trying things here and there with few good results and waning enthusiasm for the process.  I have a pack of chicken breasts sitting in my fridge, just waiting for … Continue reading »

Let’s Talk Turkey: Cliff’s Notes Version of a North Carolina Thanksgiving!

So, I’ve gotten into the very bad habit of posting late – and very sporadically – but for good reason.  I’m busy!  I started this blog back in April, at a time when work wasn’t as satisfying as I would have liked and I was searching for an outlet.  This blog turned my personal passion … Continue reading »

Pumpkin Caramel Apple Tart – A fantastic use for Pumpkin Butter! (Bonus: Sweet and Spicy toasted Pumpkin Seeds)

Note to readers:  For some reason or another I have kept this post on ice for weeks and weeks.  I confess to being a terrible blogger who got so wrapped up in planning my Thanksgiving dinner that I forgot to actually publish things on my blog.  I promise that Thanksgiving fun is coming soon! Love, … Continue reading »

Coq (ahem, Poulet) Au Vin

Every year when the weather starts to turn from summer into fall (usually right around my birthday), I get excited about all of the soups, stews, and braises that lay ahead.  As much as I love the bright flavors of summer, nothing quite satiates my hunger for comfort food like that which is served hot … Continue reading »

Spinach Artichoke Dip and Bachelorette Bridal Shower Menu!

Dearest Readers – After a short sabbatical where my life was a whirlwind of activity, I am back behind the keyboard and ready to entertain you with tales of my (apparently) wicked multitasking skills.  Please, hold your applause.  First, I’ll give you a little taste of the last month or so, which might help you … Continue reading »

Golden Tomato Jam – Tiny Jars that Make Me Smile

Home canning is something that I grew up with my entire life.  My grandmother, great aunt, and other relatives were prolific canners and I grew up eating, almost exclusively, home canned green beans from North Carolina – even when we lived in Minnesota.  I recall watching (and helping) my great aunt Pauline string a break … Continue reading »

Heirloom Tomato Salsa – And Adventures in Home Canning!

This is guest post written by Sarah Bell, good friend and freelance graphic designer extraordinaire (www.sarahlaurenbell.com), who was the creative genius behind our fabulous logo.  She’s also crazy enough to say yes to anything when it comes to my food adventures. “It’s sooo preeeetttyyyyyy!!” Very nearly a squeal. Almost a squeal, before 10 a.m. on … Continue reading »

At Long Last – My First Food Feature Published!

Hello Friends! Today may be Freaky Friday, but for me it’s Freaking Awesome Friday.  Remember when I mentioned that I’d been offered an opportunity to write a story about DC restaurants (Spinach and Beet Salad with Goat Cheese – And Elizabeth Gets Her First Byline!)?  Well, today’s the day that it was finally published!!!  I … Continue reading »