Hi, Everyone! I am so excited to announce something that I've been working on with the Rosemary Beach Foundation and Hidden Lantern Bookstore. What is Girls Getaway? I am teaching a class for Girls Getaway weekend which happens every Super Bowl weekend. Girls Getaway...
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Ravioli and Bacon Beurre Blanc
Bacon Beurre Blanc takes this pasta to the next level, especially when you consider that pasta is as much about the sauce as it is the pasta. I already have a recipe that talks about Beurre Blanc and how it can be tricky or time consuming to make. But here's the gist...
Germany and Georg Albrecht Riesling Wine Review
Riesling can get a bad rap, especially those from Germany. They aren't all sweet though, and those that are can use that sweetness to balance out the incredibly high acidity. Let's step into the world of German Riesling! The Rheinhessen in particular. This is an area...
Chicken Satays with Peanut Sauce
Great for a crowd or simple meal for two, chicken satays are an awesome dinner or appetizer option! If serving for dinner, I like to pair these with a coconut rice, sautéd bok choy with shredded carrots, and crumbled peanuts with extra sauce on top. (simply cook the...
Easy Baked Pork Ribs
These easy baked pork ribs are a breeze to make! The spice rub is a piece of cake to put together, and it makes enough for the rub and the BBQ sauce that you'll also top the ribs with right before serving. Tips for Cooking Ribs Sometimes when I'm craving ribs, I want...
Pan Seared Halibut in Carrot Ginger Broth
Pan Seared Halibut in Carrot Ginger Broth is a summer meal must! It's light but still satisfying and it's loaded with healthy antioxidants and vitamins. This recipe is inspired by one of my favorite cookbooks called "The Herbal Kitchen" by Jerry Traunfeld. I have...
The Loire Valley and Les Deux Tours Wine Review
The Loire Valley is a one of a kind, enormous wine region in northern France. The region extends along the Loire River, the mouth of which ends on the western boarder, in the Atlantic and extends over 200km east, a few hours south east of Paris. Because this region is...
Basil Granita with Heirloom Tomato Salad
This Basil Granita is a showstopper for sure. It's fun to see the wonder in people's faces as you serve this dish - the first look they get. Like "Wow! This is cool." Then, when they taste it, it's fun to see their reactions, "no way. This is the craziest flavor and...
Irmàna Frappato Wine Review and Sicilian Wines
Welcome to Sicily! One of the craziest wine regions in the world. Sicilian wines are amazing. I found this wine when I was consulting for a corporate wine and food event - pairing wine and barbecue! This wine is a great, great wine and if you can get your hands on it,...
Rosé Wine Spritzer
What could be better in Summer than a Rosé wine spritzer? I know you can drink Rosé all year long, but really - let's be honest. It's just the best in Summer. This is a quick 2-minute little cocktail to get you ready for a relaxing and low-key weekend. If I could sum...
Homemade Hot Fudge – with Espresso
Hot fudge is one of those things you can buy at the store, yes. However, I've found that making it from scratch (while working in restaurants and for private events alike) adds so much more flavor and elevates any dessert. Sure, to your guests it adds extra care and...
Homemade Ricotta
Have you ever made your own ricotta? You'll be amazed at how easy making ricotta is! In fact - you may never want to buy ricotta again. I make this from scratch whenever I do a pasta dinner for clients. I'll come to your house and make three different types of doughs...
Chablis, Burgundy & Wine Review
photo credit Chablis is a white wine Region with fabulous, bright and zesty Chardonnays. Chablis (sha-blee) is a region located in North-Central France. An outlier to Burgundy considering that Chablis is geographically (and viticulturally) closer to Champagne....
Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Crema
Summer is all about Fish Tacos! I really love all things food, but tacos are amongst the top top favorite. The beer batter is SUPER EASY to make and it's flavorful and with the easy citrus slaw on top and the cilantro avocado crema... mmmmm. It's perfect. It's just...
THE LATEST & GREATEST
Vineyard {511} 2015 Cabernet: A Wine That Inspires
Calling all Cabernet lovers and wine aficionados alike! I recently experienced tasting the Vineyard 511 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon and I have to tell you about it. When my father-in-law asked what I thought of the wine, I told him that it was inspiring. As a wine...
A Somm’s Holiday Wine Picks
6 Holiday Wine Picks at a variety of prices for any Holiday occasion you may find yourself at. From 98-point Chardonnays to Nebbiolo Rosés, and impeccable under $50 Cabernets!
2015 Special Edition Rioja from Bodegas Casa Primicia Pensante
In the enchanting region of Rioja, where winemaking is an art, a true gem shines brightly. The 2015 Special Edition Rioja from the esteemed Bodegas Casa Primicia Pensante. This wine is not just any Rioja. It has earned the coveted title of Wine Enthusiast's #1 Rioja...
Let’s Talk About Sekt
Yep - Sekt. Today we're talking about Austria and Germany's response to Champagne, Sekt. So, Let's talk about all the good things and the bad things that may be. In the past, Sekt's reputation has been soiled as cheap (because there's a lot of poor Sekt wines made out...
Eggy Bread – aka: French Toast
French Toast, a beloved breakfast classic, has been delighting taste buds for generations. Its golden-brown exterior, fluffy interior, and versatility make it a cherished morning ritual for many. In this post, we'll explore the dish's history, the core ingredients,...
Perfectly Roasted Potatoes
These perfectly roasted potatoes are the best roasted potatoes I think I've ever had, or made. I cook them at a lower temperature for longer, to develop a crunchy, golden brown layer that looks almost like caramelized glass. The yukon gold potatoes give a creamy...
Chicken Salad Recipe
This Chicken Salad Recipe is a true kitchen essential, offering endless possibilities to cater to your taste preferences. Whether you crave extra crunch from celery, a hint of tart sweetness from apple, or a touch of curry for an exotic twist, this adaptable recipe...
Napa valley: 7 Tips Before You Go
Especially helpful if you've never been to Napa - but even if you have, maybe a tip or trick here can help take your next trip to the next level. Check out these 7 Tips to Know Before You Go. Tip 1: Choose Your Hotel Location Wisely Choosing the right location for...
Australian Chardonnay: Penfolds
If you're a Chardonnay lover, consider exploring Australian Chardonnay. From bright and fruity flavors, to complex and rich oak-aged expressions - this variety is sure to tantalize your taste buds. Let’s explore what makes it so unique. Australia is renowned for its...
Discover South African Chenin Blanc
Want to expand your wine horizons? Consider exploring South African Chenin Blanc! Whether you prefer a dry white or something more sweet, there’s a wide variety of styles on offer from this region. Let’s explore why they are so special. Chenin Blanc Overview Chenin...