I am not too proud to admit that Trader Joe’s pre-made tuna salad and saltines became a staple during my long-workday, grab-and-go era. When I introduced it to my partner, it became a part of less-busy lunches at home. But there were cans of tuna sitting in our cupboard, quietly judging me. Judgy Tuna sounds…
Lemony Asparagus Risotto: My Instant Pot Debut
My sorority sister gifted us an Instant Pot, and since we are in a small space, the smaller pot is a welcome addition that will replace the larger slow cooker for our mini-meals. Risotto seemed like the perfect first recipe since the whole point of the pot is to skip the constant stirring. I had…
Earthy Asparagus & Mushroom Fettuccine: When a Sale is Too Good to Pass
The post describes a creative pasta recipe utilizing a buy-two-get-one-free asparagus deal. The dish features chicken, cremini, and porcini mushrooms, combined in a creamy, earthy sauce without actual cream. The recipe emphasizes cooking techniques and ingredient preparation, resulting in a flavorful meal for two with the option of leftovers.
Forest Bounty: Golden Chanterelles with Pappardelle
As fridge divers and pantry raiders, we never say “no” to leftovers and castoffs. Our friend forages mushrooms in the Carmel woodlands for local restaurants . In early January, when he offered up some of the smaller and less “complete” chanterelles, our answer was “Yes, please!” And we came away with a beautiful haul. My…
Fake It ‘Til You Make It
Killdeer aren’t at the top of the list as the best bird parents. Look to ospreys and emperor penguins for nurturing. But I’ve always admired their dedication to protecting their young. In this area, they are the ultimate fakers. A broken wing, a terrible limp–and predators are led away. I think we all do a…
Fridge Diving: Easy Blueberry Hand Pies
This is the story of having “eyes bigger than my stomach.” One of my favorite breakfasts is a scoop of Greek yogurt topped with fresh blueberries. I’m a sucker for a sale at the market, but it’s hard to eat 2 lbs of blueberries faster than they ripen. That’s when this recipe comes in handy….
Water Series: Nuthatch Evening Bath
a little nuthatch visits the birdbath
Solo
I stood outside, embraced by the cool fog rolling up from Big Sur. Every bird and beast had grown invisible in the evening twilight; save a lone turkey vulture silently circling the canyon before gliding east into the mountains.
Lighten up a Classic: Chicken Bolognese
A sale in the meat aisle led to a chicken bolognese creation, which surpassed my expectations. Simple to make with ground chicken, tomato, and aromatic herbs, this recipe provides a hearty but light dish. Happy Eating!
The Luck o’the (1/4) Irish Soda Bread
I am a descendant of the Fanning clan. Our people came to the “New World” in time to fight in the Revolutionary War. And while they are just a quarter of who I am, I am fascinated by their history and who they became in their new homeland. So, on March 17th each year, I…
Fridge Diving: Brie Pasta with Duck Confit & Yuzu Marmalade
A delightful evening in Sonoma led to the creation of a decadent pasta dish using duck leg confit and creamy brie. Rehydrate the duck confit, cook the pasta, prepare the brie, combine, and plate to create this indulgent recipe. Garnish with toasted pine nuts, lemon zest, and parsley for a perfect finish.
Don’t Think Less of Him
Late in the day, there was a break in the rain. The drumming of raindrops was quickly replaced by chirps, chitters, and birdsong. I looked up from my computer to see rays of light catching on a small spot of yellow — a lesser goldfinch. He sat stoically while his olive mate foraged for the…
Living Life Forté 