When Life Hands You Zucchini…Make Fritters!

This time of year, gardens are filling up with all kinds of produce. Most gardeners I know always end up giving me armfuls of zucchini, so I wanted to do something fun with it. I made fritter patties and served them with a romesco sauce. The fritter recipe is listed below, as well as a list of fun ideas to use up more of the inevitable zucchini that will end up on your doorstep.

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Root Vegetable Fritter Recipe

I love fritters! Crisp on the outside, tender and rich on the inside… Making them can be a process, but I think they are totally worth it! You can make a big batch and freeze some for later. This recipe gets its amazing flavor from root vegetables blended with Parmesan cheese. The trick to making a good, crispy fritter is to make sure your shredded vegetables are squeezed free of any excess liquid before mixing in the egg and other ingredients. Try serving them with a light pesto or garlic aioli… and enjoy!

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DIY Dehydrated Meals

This summer I will be taking a four-day camping trip to the Upper Peninsula with a group of friends. Over the last few weeks, some of them have been testing out commercial freeze-dried meal pouches, and sharing their reviews on our group chat. Although these meals provide a nice, warm and convenient dinner, they can also be costly if you need several day’s worth.

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Beer Cheese Mac Bites

This recipe is easy to throw together, great for any occasion, and it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Be sure to make enough to go around! Also, you can have fun with the ingredients. Try using different cheeses, or mix in flavors like roasted butternut squash, lobster and Parmesan, broccoli, beef chili, bacon, or anything else you can think of. These can also be made ahead of time and heated to serve.

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Kitchen Hints & Tips, From the Chef!

Over the years I’ve come by some helpful hints and trade secrets from the different chefs I’ve known and different kitchens I’ve worked in. I thought I’d pass along some tidbits that may be helpful. I am sure I will think of more in the future – and  I will share them when I do – but for now, here are some trade secrets to hopefully help you in your everyday cooking. Enjoy!

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Recipe: Lemon-Soy Vegetable Soup with Ginger

Forget everything you heard about ‘low-and-slow’. This soup recipe is almost like a stir-fry: thin-sliced vegetables, simmered together juuust until they begin to soften. Tamari, lemon, garlic, and ginger are added once it’s off the heat, to keep the flavors nice and fresh. It sounds light, but this soup is a true belly-warmer and only takes a few minutes!

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Soup-Making 101

However basic the idea of a soup may be, there are so many ways to create bold, new and delicious flavors in each pot. Whether you could use a crash-course or brush-up on your soup making skills, below are some basic steps, along with some time-saving tips, all about how to make a good, hearty soup, from scratch. I hope this is helpful – and Happy Cooking!

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7 DIY HOLIDAY DECOR IDEAS -MADE FROM YOUR KITCHEN!

When I think of the holiday season, I think of food. Of course, I am always thinking of food. But especially during this time, the sight of a festive table setting or even the scent of warm cinnamon spice invokes a feeling of cheer. I think everyone can agree that food is one of the most prominent aspects of the holiday season. This year, I decided to decorate with it. There are so many things you can use right from your pantry to create beautiful table settings, dress a wreath or garland, or make delightful ornaments. Here are some of the things I’ve been working on:

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