Hosting a holiday dinner can feel overwhelming. This is especially true if you're a novice cook, or frankly, if you haven't been in charge of planning for a large culinary gathering. All that food, the dishes, the cleaning, the table decor... where to start? I'm here to help. … [Read more...] about No Stress Guide to Hosting Holiday Dinner
Recipes
Recipe: Mom’s Cranberry Bread
Gently warmed and slathered with butter, this cranberry bread tastes like Christmas morning to me. The flavor is sweet yet tart, and the look beautiful thanks to the cranberries studded throughout. I've been missing my mother, who passed away this year in late September and … [Read more...] about Recipe: Mom’s Cranberry Bread
Easy Mushroom and Lentil Burgers
Years ago, I found myself the only vegetarian at a barbecue hosted by co-workers. I've dabbled with vegetarianism on and off; this was during one of my "on" phases. Thoughtfully, or so I thought, I packed my own frozen meatless patties so no would even notice that I wasn't eating … [Read more...] about Easy Mushroom and Lentil Burgers
Recipe: Risotto 101
Question: I am looking for good, super flexible budget-friendly things to cook while sheltering at home. A friend mentioned risotto. My store was sold out of the usual rice to make it. Can I make it with other rice? What other things can I substitute? There are only two of us, so … [Read more...] about Recipe: Risotto 101
How to Outfit a Kitchen on a Budget or 14 Kitchen Essentials Every Cook Needs
What are kitchen essentials? People have been quite successful making food in the past centuries with little more than a pot, spoon, bowl, knife and cutting surface. Years ago, I started a guide for college students but I've expanded it to a list for anyone who is outfitting a … [Read more...] about How to Outfit a Kitchen on a Budget or 14 Kitchen Essentials Every Cook Needs