Melrose Peppers – A Most Wonderful Time of the Year

I have talked at length both here and on my Face Book page about the summer glory of Melrose Peppers. They are one of my home town’s claims to fame and a source of joy to Italian cooks in the Chicago area. I grew up eating these in the summer and I anxiously await their… Continue reading Melrose Peppers – A Most Wonderful Time of the Year

Barese Sausage with Pasta and Green Bean Salad

It seems like it’s been years since I shared my thoughts and recipes here. I just checked and it has been just about 2 years. I haven’t stopped cooking, far from it, and I have shared a bit on Facebook, but even with all the time retirement and the pandemic gave me I never made… Continue reading Barese Sausage with Pasta and Green Bean Salad

The Morning (or several mornings) After…Thanksgiving Leftovers

Thanksgiving 2020 is now history. For most of us, it was very different. More intimate, scaled down, and possibly quieter (unless grandchildren were involved). Leftovers haven’t changed much, there are still a lot of them because even if the gathering was smaller, the recipes were not. Several mornings ago, I used my two favorite parts… Continue reading The Morning (or several mornings) After…Thanksgiving Leftovers

Caramelized Broccoli and Other Vegetables

I have a new favorite way to cook broccoli and I can’t take credit for it. First, let me say that Broccoli is probably my favorite vegetable side. I like the taste, and the nutrient profile makes it an excellent choice for adding some green to a plate. It is easy to cook and lends… Continue reading Caramelized Broccoli and Other Vegetables

Thanksgiving Memories of Not So Long Ago

Thanksgiving week is here. The planning is complete and implementation is about to begin. In recent years we have had a blended family Thanksgiving. Along with family, recipes get blended as well. I have been in charge of stuffing/dressing and gravy. Since both of these are near and dear to my heart, it’s an assignment… Continue reading Thanksgiving Memories of Not So Long Ago