Preacher’s Wife Mac & Cheese
This is dedicated to my dear friend Shannon who recently passed away. She sat behind me in homeroom in high school. Both our names started with an Mc. She lit up any room that she walked into with her smile and wild enthusiasm for just about anything. She planned her celebration of life down to the very last detail (and yes, a conga line and bright colorful attire were mentioned), including her famous recipe for this Preacher’s Wife Mac & Cheese, which I of course, immediately volunteered to make. All I can say is that it’s rather lactose-laden with pounds of upmarket cheeses! She made this for many of her friends over the years on special occasions. Tears are not written in the recipe, but truth be told there were a few shed during the making of this. I am not sure how life with be without you in it, but I promise to smile and champagne toast you the next time I make it. I love you Shannon.
By - Prep: 15 mins
- Cook: 35 mins
- Yields: 8 Servings
Cheesy Fried Pickle Balls
My family is obsessed with anything pickles. I saw this recipe for about Cheesy Fried Pickle Balls and of course, made them. You can air fry or fry them in oil on the stovetop. Let's just say, they are a crowd-pleaser.
- Prep: 15 mins
- Cook: 10 mins
Caramelized Lemon Leek Couscous Salad
This Caramelized Lemon Leek Couscous Salad is genius. The dressing, infused with the smoky, charred flavor of fried lemon slices, adds a unique depth. The often-overlooked leek is the star of this dish, giving the a mild, onion-like flavor and creamy texture. Sautéing the couscous adds a nutty flavor which takes this dish to the next level.
- Yields: 4 - 5 Servings
Irish Spice Bag
I made this at my soon to be son-in-law Pierce's request. The Irish Spice Bag is a beloved fast food dish that has gained popularity throughout Ireland. Inspired by Chinese cuisine, it's a flavorful concoction of crispy fries, fried chicken pieces, and a variety of spices. It is typically served in a paper bag. All I can say is wow, it's SO good!
- Prep: 20 mins
- Cook: 35 mins
- Yields: 4 - 6 Servings
Spicy Asian Potato Salad
Spicy Asian Potato Salad is a refreshing and flavorful twist on the classic potato salad. It combines the creamy texture of potatoes with a burst of spicy Asian flavors. This potato salad uses sesame oil, chili oil, soy sauce, vinegar, and green onions.
- Prep: 10 mins
- Cook: 15 mins
- Yields: 4 - 6 Servings
Irish Funeral Sandwiches
This recipe for Irish Funeral Sandwiches popped up in my inbox. It's sort of - if an egg salad sandwich (my favorite sandwich!) met up with a club sandwich. I literally made it 10 minutes later and let me tell you it's absolutely delicious. Apparently, Irish funeral sandwiches have been a staple at wakes and funerals across Ireland to offer comfort and sustenance to mourners during a difficult time. While the specific ingredients can vary depending on regional preferences and the availability of local produce, the core elements of an Irish funeral sandwich typically include hard-boiled eggs, tomatoes, lettuce, sliced ham or chicken, lettuce, and mayonnaise all chopped up.
- Prep: 10 mins
- Yields: Makes 12 triangular tea sandwiches
Seared Salmon with Blackberry-Wine Sauce
I love testing salmon recipes. Seared Salmon with Blackberry-Wine Sauce is really delicious and rather an unexpected combination. It marries the delicate flavors of salmon with the sweet-tart tang of blackberries and the richness of wine.
- Prep: 10 mins
- Cook: 20 mins
- Yields: 4 Servings
Stuffed Eggplant Parmesan
This hearty twist on the classic Stuffed Eggplant Parmesan features a whole eggplant hollowed out and stuffed with a flavorful mixture of eggplant and sausage. It’s a satisfying and substantial meal that’s perfect for a comforting dinner.
- Prep: 10 mins
- Cook: 45 mins
- Yields: 4 Servings
Korean Gochujang Chicken Wings
Korean Gochujang Chicken Wings have a sweet, spicy, and slightly tangy taste. Gochujang is a fermented chili paste that provides a unique blend of sweetness, spice, and a hint of umami. These spicy wings are a flavor explosion.
- Prep: 15 mins
- Cook: 50 mins
- Yields: 6 Servings
Grilled Cheesy Sausage Bread with Chimichurri
When you fire up your grill, you need to make this Grilled Cheesy Sausage Bread with Chimichurri. It’s delicious. You take a baguette, slice it down the middle lengthwise, hollow out some of the bread, and line it with cheese (I tried it with sliced brie on one side and mozzarella on the other, but you can use whatever kind you like), then cover it with Italian sausage. Grill it upside down to cook the sausage through. Serve with Chimichurri sauce and watch your guests go wild.
- Prep: 15 mins
- Cook: 25 mins
- Yields: 6 Servings
