Raw Pumpkin Tart

Pumpkins are often the star of all the hard-shelled squashes. From pumpkin spiced lattes to pumpkin soup to pumpkin bread, recipes for pumpkin abound. And with good reason, pumpkins are not only delicious, but also nutrient dense. Did you know they could be eaten raw? Interestingly, raw pumpkin has a hearty, rich flavor that makes it a… Read More

Walnut and Mushroom “Paté”

Walnut and Mushroom “Paté” Adapted from All Recipes 1 cup walnuts ½ cup minced shallots ¼ cup olive oil, divided 3 cloves garlic, minced ¼ pound shiitake or maitake mushrooms, chopped ¼ pound crimini or portobello mushrooms, chopped ¼ pound chanterelle or oyster mushrooms, chopped ¼ cup chopped fresh Italian parsley 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme ½ teaspoon… Read More

Rustic Parsnip Soup

I’ve had a great time the past several weeks going to the market, picking up interesting winter produce (hard shelled squashes, root vegetables, etc.) and trying new dishes. Recently, I went to the market with the idea of making a very tasty, cozy and comforting cabbage chowder, but then I came across parsnips and sunchokes (Jerusalem… Read More

The Most Beautiful Sounds

In a recent issue of Reader’s Digest, there was a column called “Finish this Sentence.” The sentence to finish was “The Most Beautiful Sound in the World is…” I found it interesting to read people’s responses that ranged from the sound of children giggling to frogs croaking in a marsh to silence in a war… Read More

Azuki Butternut Squash Soup

To realize one’s destiny is a person’s only obligation. ~ from The Alchemist, by Paulo Coelho Paulo Coelho’s remarkable and charming tale, The Alchemist, is about the most magical of all journeys—the quest to fulfill one’s destiny. Evocative and deeply humane, the novel has inspired millions of its readers around the world with its lush, timeless and… Read More

Buckwheat Polenta Fleurettes with Tapenade Noir

I wish we could put up some of the Christmas spirit in jars and open a jar of it every month. ~ Harlan Miller Hors d’oeuvres, starters, amuses-bouche, bites, finger food—no matter what you call them, these savory fleurettes—perfect for holiday parties or any gathering—lend opulence to your holiday table. Buckwheat, with its bold characteristics, adds flavor and texture to… Read More