Vol-au-vent with Gianduia Cream and Prunes

When I first saw these little gems in La Cucina Italiana, the Italian kitchen magazine, I knew I was destined to try them in my own kitchen. French for “windblown,” a vol-au-vent is a small, very light and hollow pastry. They’re essentially made by cutting puff pastry into shapes, then cutting a hole in one… Read More

Of Love, Happiness, and Romeo and Juliet

Happiness does not come automatically. It is not a gift that good fortune bestows upon us and a reversal of fortune takes back. It depends on us alone.One does not become happy overnight, but with patient labor, day after day. Happiness is constructed, and that requires effort and time. In order to become happy, we… Read More

Thrive: Finding Happiness the Blue Zones Way Giveaway

A must-read for living happier! —Dr. Oz. Learn the Secrets from the World’s Happiest People What makes us authentically happy? Apparently it’s not wealth, youth, beauty, or awards, says Dan Buettner, longevity expert and author of The New York Times bestseller, The Blue Zones: Lessons for Living Longer from the People Who’ve Lived the Longest. In… Read More

Teff and Buckwheat Porridge with Cashew milk

Let’s talk nut milk. In the past I’ve often used store bought nut and seed milks (almond, hazelnut and hemp), but now, I prefer to make my own when time allows. I’ve found it more satisfying to make it myself as I can adjust the sweetness, creaminess and flavor to suite my own tastes and… Read More

French Lentil and Barley Soup and Book Giveaway

Today, I’m happy to announce a wonderful book giveaway. In my recent post, Family Traditions, I wrote about the importance of traditions and briefly touched on the numerous benefits they provide to families. For one, traditions experienced during childhood can not only help to create wonderful memories, but they also help people become happier and… Read More

GALETTE DES ROIS

In celebration of Epiphany, at the beginning of the New Year French bakeries and pastry shops are filled with special pastries called les Galettes des Rois. After writing about the importance of family traditions, this new year I wanted to follow an interesting, adorable and beloved French tradition surrounding the Epiphany, a Catholic festival or day… Read More