Cooking Basics

2012 is going to be big I tell ya, BIG. Lots of videos and crafty projects are on the horizon. Let's not forget about my office cleaning project which might take me the entire month (or more) to sort through and organize but I'm into sweepingly bold statements this month as the shredder hums through old files and magazines in the background.  Read more >

Every year on New Year's Day I have my annual soup party where family members, friends, and neighbors gather to sample an assortment of soups I've made the week between Christmas and New Year's. Last year this Vegetarian Black Bean and Sweet Potato Soup with Lime was the hit of the party, so I thought it might be fun to feature it for the very last Meatless Monday post of 2011! (If you skip the yogurt or sour cream, this soup is vegan, and it's definitely one of my all-time favorite soups.)  Read more >

I remember walking down a narrow cobblestone street in Florence, Italy, perusing the menus of the little sidewalk cafes that were just beginning to lay out the tablecloths for dinner service. The light had turned a deeper shade of blue, reflected off the darkening sky, while a warm breeze swept down the lane and kicked up spirals of tiny spring flower petals. I examined each menu carefully, overwhelmed by choices. So many lovely restaurants, so many amazing dishes, so many smiling waiters waving me down and begging me to come inside. "Ciao signora!" They called.  Read more >