Roasted Rainbow Vegetables

I had my last catering job of 2013 last night (unless, I get a last minute call!). I made Coq au Vin and a side dish of roast rainbow vegetables. I found some organic carrots of "many colors" at Trader Joes's. These carrots are red, orange and yellow. I also bought their red, gold and purple potatoes. You can use any fresh herbs you like. I used rosemary and thyme. It's SO colorful!

By Leslie Blythe

Peanut Brittle

Peanut Brittle is a salty and sweet old-fashioned favorite. It's very fast and easy to make, but you must have a candy thermometer! Grandma loves peanut brittle. My daughter, Zoe made her a batch, which did not last long! It works best if you use raw peanuts. She used roasted peanuts, which get a bit dark. Have all your ingredients measured out and ready. You have to work quickly before it hardens. Also, you will need a candy thermometer for this recipe.

By Leslie Blythe

Hershey’s Chocolate Pound Cake

Hershey’s Chocolate Pound Cake is so moist and delicious, perfect to serve with tea. I was discussing family Christmas traditions with my friend Pam. She said her mother makes this Hershey's Chocolate Pound Cake and that they eat it on Christmas morning. Of course, I made it immediately. This made one bundt cake and 4 mini loaves. Next time, I will line the loaf pans with parchment paper. This cake is so moist and delicious, perfect to serve with tea. Thanks Pam!

By Leslie Blythe

Bacony Peas

Bacony Peas - Have you noticed that I love bacon? This is dead easy and delicious. It produced many contented smiles around my table.

By Leslie Blythe

Tuna Melt

This Tuna Melt sandwich is tuna salad and a layer of cheese done under the broiler. It is said that the Tuna Melt was born in 1965 on King Street in Charleston, South Carolina at the Woolworth’s lunch counter. Apparently, there was a bowl of tuna salad on the edge of the griddle shelf and the contents tipped over onto the grilled cheese sandwich being made at the time. I guess the tuna melt is a mistake.

A tuna melt sandwich is tuna salad and a layer of cheese, sometimes grated. The sandwich is then grilled or broiled open-faced until the cheese is melted. I wish I liked tuna, but I made this for my husband, Eric, who loves them. You can also add a slice of tomato, use any kind of bread and any kind of cheese. Our "house" cheese is Tillamook Cheddar.

By Leslie Blythe

Curried Chicken and Basmati Rice Soup

This Curried Chicken and Basmati Rice Soup is probably the best soup I've ever had. I will be making this again and again. It's easy, unusual and delicious. My fellow catering colleague, Mary, gave me this recipe. I served it with naan bread and chutney.

By Leslie Blythe

Creamy Boursin Omelette

My daughter, Zoe, got us hooked on Boursin® Vermont White Cheddar & Sage Spread. It claims to be a sophisticated take on cheddar. A hint of delicately earthy sage balances the tangy sharpness of real Vermont Cheddar. I went to the market with my husband and he bought some. The lady working the check out said she LOVES this cheese and puts it in her scrambled eggs. Well, isn't that a nice idea!? I'm probably one of the few people who would come home from the market and make something the check out lady likes. So, I went on the Boursin site and found this omelette recipe, though you could just throw some in your scramble. Sorry about the blurry photo, I was hungry and didn't take my time!

By Leslie Blythe

Chicken Salad Tea Sandwiches with Smoked Almonds

I catered a trunk show at a wonderful clothing store in San Marino, CA called Serafina. If you live in the area, you must stop by, their things are exquisite. I made tea sandwiches. These Chicken Salad sandwiches were a big hit.

By Leslie Blythe

Egg Salad with Dill & Chives

Egg Salad with Dill & Chives are a bit hit. There is nothing like a really good egg salad sandwich. I think adding some fresh dill takes it to the next level.

By Leslie Blythe

Double Decker Tacos

Double Decker Tacos - a taco shell in the center of a flour tortilla, spread with beans and cheese.Then you fill the taco shell with beef, more shredded cheese, shredded lettuce and tomatoes.The refried beans act as the glue in the double decker taco. This is a family tradition in our house.

By Leslie Blythe