Previous Successes

Let me start off by welcoming you to my blog!  I have always enjoyed cooking and have been in LOVE with Italian cuisine so it is usually what I make if I'm going to make anything.  But, I also don't discriminate - I'll try anything once!  This blog is one that puts you in the story as I relate to you my kitchen adventures.  I call them adventures because they always are.  Sometimes, there's very little drama and things work out like a charm - just like on TV!  Other times, they better reflect a kitchen nightmare.  Either way, something is learned and I am always trying to think about how I can improve something for the next time I cook the dish.

Here is a non-exhaustive list of some previous successes I have had:

Julia Child's own Boeuf Bourguignon *

Lasagna with Meat Sauce*

Lamb Ragu with Mint*

Beef Teriyaki (with Flank Steak) *

Banana Nut Bread

Herb-Crusted Salmon with Rice

Potatoes Au Gratin

Rosemary Roasted Red Potatoes

Frosted Molasses Cookies (a favorite of my Dad's)

Brie En Croute *

Almond Pinecones *

Creamed Eggs *

Crab Cakes

Herb-Crusted Pork Tenderloin *

Spaghetti and Meatballs

Maple Mustard Lamb Chops

Pork Chops in Paprika Sauce

Parisian Steak and Cheese Croissants

Glazed Smoked Ham

Kourabiedes (walnut sugar cookies) *

Cranberry and White Chocolate Oatmeal Cookies

Swedish Pancakes *

These are not only some of my successes, but also some of my favorites (*)  - usually the two collide.  They are in no particular order, but each one does offer unique flavors and brings to mind wonderful memories.  I enjoy cooking not only for the eating (duh) but for the joy it can bring to those around me.  I love trying new recipes and then changing them around and adding my own flavors, tweaking it until it becomes something personal and special.  I've grown up around cooking - my uncle and my aunt both cook, my dad has always cooked, and growing up our au pair's always brought something new to the proverbial table.  We are a family that will try new things (or change old ones) and bring it to a gathering and then dissect the dish and offer suggestions on how to improve it.  It's something that we all do and truly enjoy talking about.  After all, how can anyone be a great cook if they are not willing to improve and try something outside the box?  I am not a chef by any means.  But, I do enjoy cooking and that is what this blog is all about!  The love of food and cooking it...and, of course, eating it!!

If you would like any of these recipes, please comment on my blog and I will be glad to put it up!  I'm all about sharing the love - and the recipes!

Enjoy!!