Almost every Thanksgiving dinner centers around the turkey. Sure, there are exceptions, such as our vegetarian daughter who will be enjoying a fine black bean cake instead, but the majority of homes prepare turkey as the highlight of the meal. If you are one of the many who is preparing turkey, there still is room for creativity. The use of herbs and marinades can add a little flair to your dinner.
Each of the turkey recipes I am sharing has its own unique flavor. One has a delectable combination of balsamic and apples; the other has a delicious maple brine
Archives for Main Dishes
Homemade Ricotta
by TT on October 27th, 2011 | Main Dishes, Recipes
About a decade ago, I remember speaking with a friend about her lasagna recipe. Raised in an Italian family, her lasagna was the best I had ever had, especially the ricotta. I asked what brand she used. Her reply was, "Where do you buy your ricotta?"
At that time, I thought that was an interesting question. I replied, "The grocery store."
Thus, my education on purchasing better ingredients began. She explained that she purchased her ricotta at a local Italian specialty food store that had homemade ricotta, lasagna noodles, and more. While it meant a 30 minute drive to purchase the ricotta,
At that time, I thought that was an interesting question. I replied, "The grocery store."
Thus, my education on purchasing better ingredients began. She explained that she purchased her ricotta at a local Italian specialty food store that had homemade ricotta, lasagna noodles, and more. While it meant a 30 minute drive to purchase the ricotta,
Sausage Stuffed Zucchini
by TT on August 16th, 2011 | Healthy Cooking, Main Dishes, Recipes, Side Dishes
Zucchini is one of those vegetables that seems destined for filling with ingredients. Growing up, my mom frequently stuffed zucchini with spinach, which made a delicious dish that could be served as an entrée or side. This spring I created a tomato-stuffed zucchini topped with mozzarella. As both of those are vegetarian dishes, it seemed to be time to create something for the carniverous crowd.
I made this dish as part of last night's Tapas Monday menu. Served with crostini topped with tomatoes from our garden and fresh mozzarella, it made for a wonderful dinner of nibbling. The only negative
I made this dish as part of last night's Tapas Monday menu. Served with crostini topped with tomatoes from our garden and fresh mozzarella, it made for a wonderful dinner of nibbling. The only negative
Make Your Own Temaki Sushi
by TT on June 23rd, 2011 | Main Dishes, Recipes
With four children that have varying likes, it can be difficult to find a dinner that works for all. When I want to make a meal that is eagerly embraced by all, I tend to choose a "Make Your Own" meal, such as make your own paninis. There is another meal of this type that makes all of them even more excited, Make Your Own Temaki Sushi.
Let me start by explaining what temaki sushi is. Most of us hear the term "sushi" and think raw fish. However, sushi actually is the rice that quite often accompanies the dish. Temaki sushi
Let me start by explaining what temaki sushi is. Most of us hear the term "sushi" and think raw fish. However, sushi actually is the rice that quite often accompanies the dish. Temaki sushi
Rice & Beans, Vegetarian Style
by TT on May 23rd, 2011 | Main Dishes, Recipes
As I've mentioned previously, our 13 year old daughter has become a vegetarian. After six months of this lifestyle, she is enjoying it and not missing any of the foods that I thought she would, such as filet mignon or bacon. What has been helpful to this change is her love of legumes: garbanzo, kidney, black, pinto- she likes them all.
While I am aware of her enjoyment of beans, it does strike me as funny sometimes. Last week, my husband was going to be traveling for two nights. He is not a fan of legumes, which our daughter is quite
While I am aware of her enjoyment of beans, it does strike me as funny sometimes. Last week, my husband was going to be traveling for two nights. He is not a fan of legumes, which our daughter is quite






