Cheddar and Caraway Cheese Straws

Caraway seeds have a warm, sweet and slightly peppery aroma, and have a distinctive earthy anise flavor. They pair perfectly with a strong white cheddar in these unique Cheddar and Caraway Cheese Straws. A great addition to any party!

By Leslie Blythe

  • Prep: 35 mins
  • Cook: 20 mins
  • Yields: Makes 10 - 12

Roasted Red & Golden Beets with Sunflower Seeds & Arugula

This Roasted Red & Golden Beets with Sunflower Seeds & Arugula has the perfect balance of sweet and tangy. The maple sherry vinaigrette is transcendent. The original recipe calls for fresh chervil, which I could not find. I plan on growing my own.

By Leslie Blythe

  • Prep: 10 mins
  • Cook: 45 mins
  • Yields: 4 Servings

Bulgur Pilaf with Almonds

One of my favorite grains is bulgur wheat, which has a light, nutty flavor. Bulgur is sometimes confused with cracked wheat, which is crushed wheat grain that has not been parboiled. Bulgur is cleaned, parboiled, dried, ground into particles and sifted into distinct sizes. Bulgur is more nutritious than rice and couscous, because it contains more fiber, more vitamins and minerals, and has a better glycemic index than white rice or couscous.

By Leslie Blythe

  • Prep: 5 mins
  • Cook: 10 mins
  • Yields: 4 Servings

Stuart Brioza’s Mushrooms in Pickle-Brine Butter

Don't toss your pickle brine out! It can be used like vinegar in many dishes! The pickle brine adds a burst of acid to the delicious, buttery mushrooms.

By Leslie Blythe

  • Yields: 6 - 8 Servings

Oven-Roasted Chicken Shawarma

Chicken Shawarma is typically cooked on a rotisserie, but his version is oven roasted and works perfectly. It’s tender, moist and super flavorful. You can eat it hot, room temperature, or cold. It’s a recipe from The New York Times.

By Leslie Blythe

  • Prep: 10 mins
  • Cook: 40 mins
  • Yields: 4 - 6 servings

Chocolate Almond Soufflé

I love this Chocolate Almond Soufflé recipe. You turn it out upside down on a plate. You don’t have to worry if it falls because it is supposed to and you can make it ahead. Sadly, my husband is allergic to chocolate, so haven’t made it in awhile. You can go overboard and pour hot fudge sauce on it or sprinkle it with powdered sugar. I have a feeling I know what most people would do!

By Leslie Blythe

  • Prep: 10 mins
  • Cook: 15 mins
  • Yields: 4 Servings

Tomato & Green Chili Quesadillas

There is nothing better than a grilled quesadilla. These Tomato & Green Chili Quesadillas are filled with gooey melted cheese, tomatoes and spicy green chilis. It's one of my favorite things to have for lunch.

By Leslie Blythe

  • Prep: 5 mins
  • Cook: 10 mins
  • Yields: 4 Servings

Broccoli, Bacon, Shallot & Provolone Quiche

This Broccoli, Bacon, Shallot & Provolone Quiche goes from brunch buffet to dinner table or picnic in a snap and is great with a leafy green salad. The flaky crust and custard filling make it a perfect vehicle for an array of mix-ins. Baking the crust before adding the filling, known as blind baking, ensures it won't get soggy.

By Leslie Blythe

  • Prep: 15 mins
  • Cook: 40 mins
  • Yields: 8 Servings

Chicken in Milk

I know that Chicken in Milk sounds terrible, but you must suspend your disbelief and try this easy to make chicken. It’s a dish that originated in Italy, and is made by braising a whole chicken in milk, along with herbs, lemon and spices. The milk helps to tenderize the chicken and infuse it with flavor. The chicken is often served with pasta or rice.

By Leslie Blythe

  • Prep: 15 mins
  • Cook: 1 hr 40 mins
  • Yields: 4 Servings

Sticky Balsamic Ribs

These Sticky Balsamic Ribs are sweet and tangy. You can finish them in the oven under the broiler or on the grill. Make sure you have plenty of napkins!

By Leslie Blythe

  • Prep: 15 mins
  • Cook: 2 hrs 30 mins
  • Yields: 8 Servings