Monday, November 21, 2016

Potato and Acorn Squash Soup

Recipe for a creamy acorn squash and potato soup, flavored with cumin and fresh thyme.

Every year I flip through fancy housewares catalogs and see gorgeous soup bowls shaped like pumpkins and squash, just begging to be added to an elegant holiday table. And I want them. And I imagine making pumpkin or squash soup to serve in them. But I never buy them because they're kinda pricey for something I'll just use at Thanksgiving.

Thursday, November 17, 2016

Cocoa Caramel Cocktail

Recipe for a rum cocktail flavored with cocoa, caramel and cinnamon.

Every year I plan a "house cocktail" for the holidays. I make a big pitcher of it in advance and then just shake off the individual cocktails with ice as guests arrive. Since I'm a big believer in making as much ahead as possible so I can enjoy actually spending time with friends and relatives, it makes sense to do the same with the drinks.

Monday, November 14, 2016

Pear and Apple Autumn Pie

Recipe for an apple and pear pie with a homemade butter crust.

Holiday desserts in my house have always meant pie. Sure, there might be a few other things that I whipped up or that guests brought. And they change with the season and mood. But there's always pie. When I was a kid, I really only ever wanted the crust and could do without the filling. But now that I make my own pies, I want them both.

Wednesday, November 9, 2016

Butternut Squash and Parmesan Lasagna

Recipe for lasagna made with a creamy butternut squash and Parmesan bechamel sauce.

So, I was basically a nervous wreck all day yesterday, waiting for election results and watching cable news obsessively. I knew I needed some comfort food so I put my nervous energy to work in the kitchen, layering flavors, creating something delicious and keeping my mind occupied.

Thursday, November 3, 2016

Butternut and Ricotta Polenta with Crispy Brussels Sprouts

Recipe for a creamy polenta side dish made with ricotta cheese and served with crispy Brussels sprouts.

I've been on a serious polenta kick around here lately. I think it's a combination of chilly weather and busyness. Polenta is a big warm bowl of comfort and it's also easy to make and cooks pretty fast. And, for even more fun, it's wonderfully versatile so I can change up the flavors and not get bored.