Pumpkin has many personalities. Americans have experienced the sweet, spicy version we love so much in our pumpkin pies and pumpkin breads. More recently we have learned to love pumpkin and coffee in pumpkin lattes. And slowly we are accepting that pumpkin is also a versatile ingredient for savory dishes like pumpkin gnocchi, pumpkin ravioli, and pumpkin soup…

I had seen the strawberry tartare in the March (maybe?) issue of Tea Times and I knew I wanted to do something similar for Erin’s shower. The strawberry mixture was mounded in silver spoons and it created a very whimsical amuse bouche.
I wasn’t sure how to make it work for the shower but I was determined to do so.  And, I am happy to say, not only did it work, it was awesome.  The flavors came together to create a refreshing palate cleanser and everyone loved them.

My son Matthew came up with the brilliant idea of placing the bowls of …read more

 
While many of you may not think of cheese flautas as being basic they are a fantastic easier-than-you-think addition to your cooking repertoire.
They go together in minutes, nearly everyone loves them, and the filling variations are endless; cheese, cheese and chile, cheese and chicken, chicken and chile, left over beef, taco..the list is endless and can end up with such interesting variations as brie, chipotle, and pecan…or mushroom and parmesan…
You can have your own Mexican Restaurant at home.
If you aren’t hooked yet, then consider that they can be everything from an appetizer, to a snack…main course to dessert …read more

Yep.  Pizzaria style.  Hand tossed.
The thing is I always make hand tossed pizza.  I have been doing it for years..I can even get it spinning.  I thought..aha! This will be a piece of….cake pizza.

  These wraps are so good. Really. My kids love them, and you can use just about any vegetable in them…Do make sure to have a mixture,  and you need the zucchini (or you could substitute eggplant).
 For the tappanade
1 can black olives
1/2 c green salad olives
1/4 c onion
3 cloves garlic, peeled.
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 tsp italian seasoning
1 tbs olive oil
pulse together in food processor until coarsely pureed. Set aside.
16 flour tortillas, whole wheat homemade is best, but whatever you like.   

For filling:
2 zucchini-sliced in 1/8″ thick slices LONGWISE.
1 tbs olive oil
1 tbs italian seasoning
salt and pepper to taste
1/2 c chopped red onion
1/2 …read more