low & slow. [short rib ragu w. ricotta]

July 15th, 2021 by | comments

I know this isn’t the most ‘summer’ dish, but I would gladly eat it year-round. I mean, what’s not to love – fork-tender, 4-hour braised short rib, creamy ricotta drizzled with olive oil and a sprinkling of flaky sea salt and cracked black pepper…need I continue? This pasta dish is definitely hearty, but serve it alongside some salad and it balances out, right?!

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best of both worlds. [brookies]

June 25th, 2021 by | comments

These bars are the best of both worlds – brownies and chocolate chip cookies AKA brookies! They’re stacked with Ghirardelli triple fudge brownies, homemade chocolate chip cookies and salty pretzels. If you know me well, you know I’m not a big fan of chocolate, so to be honest, I didn’t even eat one of these. I more so made them for my husband and family because after all, there are some people in this world who enjoy chocolate. :-) From their reactions, I can confirm these brookies were an absolute hit and devoured very quickly.

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pasta la vista, baby. [sun-dried tomato pasta w. sausage & asparagus]

June 11th, 2021 by | comments

When I’ve had a really long work day, there’s nothing I want more than a quick, easy and delicious dinner. And if carbs are involved, that’s a bonus. This creamy sun-dried tomato pasta his all the marks and makes enough for a whole family. Even though I was only cooking this dish for me and my husband, I wasn’t complaining because I was able to devour the leftovers for a couple days. :-)

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pieces of the past. [shrimp & squash pilaf]

June 7th, 2021 by | comments

If you’re in need of a quick and easy meal, I’ve got you covered with this shrimp and squash pilaf. All of the components are delicious on their own, but even better when combined. This post is particularly special because three beloved grandmas contributed in some way – from the pilaf portion of the recipe to the serving spoons to the lace runner. Thank you Pat, Mary Lou and Maxine for contributing to my post!

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let’s get grillin’. [balsamic-marinated grilled artichokes]

May 25th, 2021 by | comments

Grilling season officially kicks off this weekend, which means these balsamic-marinated grilled artichokes should definitely be on the menu. I’m at a loss for words trying to explain how delicious these artichokes are, so you’ll just have to try them yourself. :) I highly recommend squeezing some charred lemon on top and dipping the leaves into pesto aioli – a winning combo!

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