always in search of delicious

Dreaming of Carne Asada Fries

2012-01-29T19:38:00.000-08:00

So, my resolution to write more has been off to a slow start. Can you believe it's nearly February?!? January has been full of busy days and yummy meals. We are slimming down our diets (with hopes of slimming down ourselves) following a "health hiatus" that ensued over the holidays.

One of the many holiday indulgences was from our old SD fave, El Portal (previously featured here around this same time last year). Their El Portal fries (which are delicious by themselves) are covered in crispy carne asada, creamy guacamole, sour cream, and shredded cheese. After adding our own sprinkle of cilantro and hot sauce, these fries were a dream come true...

Oh, El Portal Fries, I think of you when I'm on the treadmill...you are both by punishment and my reward. Any guilty pleasures you miss when you're on a health kick? :)

Happy Searching!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-23T13:07:00.000-08:00

A few weeks back, one of my sweet students presented me with some adorable, edible acorns.

Aren't they precious?! Who knew that Hershey's kisses, Nilla Wafers, pretzels, and chocolate frosting could result in such a heartwarming and delicious nibble.

Happy Thanksgiving and as always...

Happy Searching!

Thing for Wings

2011-11-10T20:35:00.000-08:00

Remember when I told you how I get food crushes? You know, when you can't get enough of something and it's all you can think about? Well, the hubs has had a thing for wings recently. Fortunately, his hankering translates into some deliciousness for me, too!

He followed the Hooters technique of coating the wings with flour and then refrigerating them for an hour (since we've both reluctantly admitted they are our favorite wings). Once they were fried, he tossed them with hot sauce and butter.

Crispy, just the right kick, totally crush-worthy.

Happy searching,

Happy Hallow-eating!

2011-10-30T20:12:00.000-07:00

Can you believe it's almost November? But before retailers rush us into decorating for Christmas (before we've even had Thanksgiving), there is a delicious day upon us. Candy? Clever snacks? Creative cocktails? It must be Halloween. And the mister's absolute favorite holiday. Why? See above, beginning with candy...

Ryan created our menu this year, but I did contribute in the way of assembling (and eating) some treats!

First up? Yummy Mummy Dogs.

We followed this recipe, but used garlic breadsticks instead of Crescent Rolls. Very tasty, especially with a spooky cheese drizzle and fresh blood (or ketchup...whatever you have on hand)!

To wash it down? A crisp apple cider martini. The hubs mixed my childhood favorite beverage...

...with vodka, muddled apple & lime, a splash of maple syrup. Complete with an apple slice garnish. Fall-icious!

Notice the Spooky Snack Mix in the background...the mister's own Munchie mix of pretzels, potato chips, gummy worms, and Cheetos.

Do you have any tricks or treats up your sleeve this Halloween?

Happy searching!

p.s. Instead of trying to catch up and fill you in on everything since the last post, I'm starting with the present. And hopefully, someday, I will have a few extra moments to fill you in on our delicious summer and early fall adventures. 'Cause they were tasty. :)

Vacay

2011-07-06T00:56:00.000-07:00

Lately, I've been on extended vacation--from just about everything, except spending time with family, friends, and food.

My vacation has taken me to Colorado where I visited my parents and celebrated 32 years of being in this fabulous food-filled world...to San Diego where I bridal-showered with my best friend and enjoyed my hometown and the company of my in-laws...and to Vegas where I broke even on the slot machines but hit the gastronomical jackpot.

I'll give you a bit of a preview...an amuse bouche, if you will. There have been burgers...

and bacon milkshakes...

and Happy Hours...

and pastries...

and pizzas...

and giant ribeyes.

So, stay tuned for some tasty tidbits!

Happy Searching,

Bison Burgers & Oven Fries

2011-06-24T23:15:00.000-07:00

In our efforts to maintain a relatively healthy regime, we regularly integrate protein alternatives into our meals. In lieu of steak, we have chicken. We always have ground turkey on hand instead of ground beef. A lean option that we hadn't explored in our home kitchen: bison. But during a recent grocery trip, we spotted some and thought that bison burgers would be a lighter alternative to the beef burgers we love so much (seen here, here, and here).

I viewed several recipes (although considering that bison seems to be gaining popularity, there aren't as many as you'd think). Before forming patties, I added some smoked paprika, grated onion, crushed garlic, S&P to the meat. The burgers turned out deliciously moist due to the recommended cooking method from this recipe. (Because bison is so lean, they suggest covering the burgers to prevent them from drying out.) Topped with some swiss cheese, tomatoes, and Cabernet carmelized red onions, these bison burgers were stampede-worthy.

To go along with our adventurous burgers, I served up some carrot and parsnip fries. I had just seen the recipe on Mad Hungry earlier in the week (one of my new favorite cooking shows) and had been awaiting an opportunity to try them out. If you've never cooked with parsnips (which I hadn't before today), they are similar to carrots. Fibrous and a bit sweet, parsnips are perfect as a potato alternative for some oven fries.

I love exploring new foods to satisfy some good ol' fashioned culinary curiosity. Is there anything you've tried making recently that was new for you? Or is there something you are thinking about trying? Do tell!

Happy Searching!

Sensational Strawberry & Chicken Salad

2011-06-12T08:36:00.000-07:00

When summer rolls around (and you are trying to prevent your own rolls from being around), it's all about lighter meals. But as you know, the hubs and I share the food philosophy that it's possible to eat healthy, nutritious meals without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction.

My ideal salad has lots of different flavors and textures to satisfy all of my senses (I mean, if you're going to eat a salad, that's the least you can do for yourself, right?). So, this salad totally hit the spot.

Tender grilled chicken, sweet sliced strawberries, crunchy toasted almonds, thinly sliced red onion, greens lightly tossed in a homemade balsamic vinaigrette...sensationally satisfying.

What's in your favorite salad?

Happy Searching,

Let Him Eat Cake

2011-06-10T08:01:00.000-07:00

Dessert isn't a daily ritual for us. Thankfully, I have more of a salty tooth than a sweet one (although the hubs has enough sugar cravings for the both of us). Every now and then, usually for a special occasion, we indulge and have something sweet to finish the meal.

One of the hubs' favorite desserts is this cake from Ina Garten. The cake itself is moist and intensely chocolatey, but what really makes it is the frosting. A thick layer of rich, chocolate buttercream adorns the spongey delight inside.

I've only made it a few times, but there are never any leftovers. And since it's such a rare occasion, I say let him eat cake.

Happy Searching,

p.s. If you feel like to drooling a bit, here's the video to see the full process.

Cool as a Cucumber

2011-06-07T07:27:00.000-07:00

While making one of my favorite salads the other day, I realized that I've never shared it with you! It's certainly deserving of its 15 Minutes of Fame (or however long it takes you to read this post).

Cucumber and Tomato Salad has been a favorite of mine since my early childhood, when I would help my mom pick the cucumbers and tomatoes right from our garden. It is such a summer staple, and can be adapted to make a thousand different versions depending on what you have in your fridge or what you're in the mood for.

But the basic recipe is so simple and delicious on its own, I often find myself just sticking with the classic. I'm sure you've made or eaten something similar...here's the version I grew up with:

Cucumber & Tomato Salad
Dressing:
Whisk together equal parts olive oil & red wine vinegar, garlic salt, pepper, dash of sugar, dried Italian herbs (parsley, oregano, etc). Most dressing recipes call for 1 part acid (vinegar) to 2 or 3 parts oil, but I like mine pretty tart...so adjust to your taste.
Salad:
Toss peeled and sliced cucumbers, sliced tomatoes (grape, cherry, or vine-ripened are the most flavorful), and thinly sliced red onions with dressing. Best when refrigerated for 30 minutes, but I can't always wait that long.

You could add corn, avocado, bread to make a panzanella, or some nice salty olives. As for me, it's usually just the essentials. Cool, crisp, bright...a happy little bowl of summer.

Happy Searching,

I Will Eat Them Anywhere...

2011-06-05T20:05:00.000-07:00

Growing up, my family always enjoyed a good, hearty breakfast. And when I say hearty, I mean that it usually included eggs of some sort: fried eggs, scrambled eggs, green eggs and ham (okay, not really). One of my favorite childhood egg dishes is still one of my favorites today: soft-boiled eggs with toast.

They are so easy to make, and feel so luxurious in spite of their simplicity. The trick is to get the time right so that the eggs are perfectly cooked (according to your taste, of course). To me, perfect soft-boiled eggs have runny yolks but whites that are semi-firm.

So here's how it goes: put the eggs into a pot, cover with cool water, and bring to a boil. (This is also the point where I put some bread in the toaster). Set the timer once the water begins to boil; for my "perfect" eggs, the timer is set for three minutes. When time is up, turn the heat off and run cold water over the eggs to stop the cooking. I use the back of a butter knife to give them a good crack, open them up, and scoop out the liquid gold inside.

Sprinkled with a little salt and freshly cracked pepper (and a smidge of butter if you're feeling indulgent), this breakfast warms your belly and your soul. I will eat them here or there, I will eat them anywhere.

Do you have any childhood favorites that you still love today?

Happy Searching!

Three Pizzas

2011-06-03T21:44:00.000-07:00

Pizza is my favorite food, hands down. There are numerous close seconds, but I would be lying if I said there was anything else in the top spot.

So the other night when we had shrimp, a few whole wheat tortillas, and nothing else planned for dinner, we ended up with shrimp pizzas! (Three delicious shrimp pizzas, if I do say so myself). We had several topping possibilities in the fridge, and since I really couldn't narrow it down to just one theme, I ended up making three different pizzas.

Spicy Thai Peanut with Cilantro & Carrots

The first thing I did was roast a pound of shell-on, deveined tiger shrimp (that I had tossed with olive oil, S&P, and a crushed clove of garlic) in the oven at 400 degrees. I took them out just before they were fully cooked since they were going back in the oven atop the tortillas (rubbery shrimp=opposite of delicious). Then I peeled them, sliced them in half so they would lay flat, and prepped all the other tasty toppings.

Roasted Pepper, Arugula, & Goat Cheese

Here are the topping deets:

Spicy Thai-julienned carrots, chopped cilantro & scallions, sesame seeds. This sauce totally made it (I tossed half of it with the shrimp and then used the other half to drizzle after it baked): equal parts soy/lime juice, a bit of toasted sesame oil, a smidge of peanut butter and a dash of chili garlic paste. Added some chopped peanuts and a bit more cilantro...Thai heaven.

Roasted Peps-leftover roasted yellow peppers and red onions, crumbled goat cheese, and arugula (tossed in lemon juice, olive oil, S&P and was added right when it came out of the oven). Buonissima!

BBQ Blue Cheese-carmelized red onions, blue cheese & bacon crumbles, and shrimp tossed in BBQ sauce (store-bought...I think the brand is Bull's Eye) before baking. Again, it was all about the sauce: equal parts BBQ sauce/ranch dressing, dash of chili powder, cayenne pepper, and some salt. Ooowwweeee, so yummy.

Blue Cheese Barbecue, Bacon, & Carmelized Onions

After assembling each pizza, I put them back in the oven at 450 for a few minutes until everything was melted and warmed through. I think my fave was the Thai while the hubs favored the blue cheese & bacon. Really, not a bad one in the bunch.

I mean, what's better than a customized pizza? Um, three of them!

Happy Searching!

Thai-spiration: Coconut Chicken Soup

2011-05-30T20:09:00.000-07:00

Recently, we had some lemongrass in the fridge (leftover from this meal) that needed to be used. When I discovered that we also had some chiles and mushrooms on hand, I realized we were one can of coconut milk away from this delicious Coconut Chicken Soup.

I made several adaptations based on what we had or didn't have. I used fresh mushrooms instead of canned, fresno chiles instead of Thai, reduced-fat coconut milk instead of regular, lime zest instead of kaffir lime leaves, and boxed stock instead of homemade.

And guess what? It was still amazing! One of the reasons I love Thai food so much is the salty-sweet-sour pucker that hits you right in the cheeks. The zing of the lime and spice of the chiles swirled together with the chicken and mushrooms in the milky broth.

Not too heavy, perfect for the beginning of summer. Try it out!

Happy Searching,

Lovin' Larb

2011-05-24T07:31:00.000-07:00

Larb? Yep, larb. It's a strange word to say, but surprisingly, not to eat. It's a Thai dish that is a basically a meat salad (sort of like the lettuce cups you may have tried in various Asian restaurants).

Intrigued? I certainly was the first time I saw Giada whip up this recipe. In trying to build a meal around some ground turkey, I thought it might be a good time to try it out.

Larb might make you step outside your kitchen comfort zone. Back when I first saw Giada introduce this dish, I wasn't completely sold (the fact that I waited several months to test it out is proof). But when I stumbled upon the recipe again, I read through the list of ingredients.

Turkey? Like it. Mint? Love it. Lime juice and lemongrass? Citrusy heaven. So I, myself, expanded my culinary horizons a bit and am so glad I did!

The name might sound a bit odd, the finished product may not be overly alluring, but let me tell you...it tastes incredible! I hope it inspires you try something that stretches your tastebuds a bit.

Eaten anything that has surprised you lately?

Happy Searching,

Wild About Rice

2011-05-21T15:10:00.000-07:00

As you may know, I have an unrequited love for carbohydrates (I mean, if they loved me back, I could eat them without recourse, right?). Pasta, potatoes, bread and rice are must-haves in the pantry.

The good news in all my carbohydrate cravings is that I really like whole grains. I love the nutty, chewiness of brown rice and the texture of a multi-grain bread. And I LOVE wild rice. I've enjoyed it since my young carbo-lovin' days, when Mama B would glam it up with some sauteed onions, garlic, mushrooms, & white wine.

So, since she sent us a bag of it in our Easter package (the exact same kind we used to have growing up from Byerly's in Minnesota), I recreated her version.

Mama B's Wild Rice
2 c wild rice
1 TB olive oil
1 TB butter
1 small onion, diced
1 clove garlic, minced
8 oz mushrooms, sliced (I like cremini/baby portabellas)
1/2 c white wine (I used a Chardonnay)
1/4 c chopped parsley

Cook the rice according to the package (we use chicken broth instead of water to add even more flavor). Drain the rice, and set aside in a bowl (it takes a really long time to cook--like an hour--so start ahead of time).

Meanwhile, saute the onions, garlic, and mushrooms with the olive oil and butter over medium heat.
When the mushrooms are starting to get soft, add wine and let it reduce and soak into the mushrooms. Turn off the heat and stir in the chopped parsley then add the mixture to the rice.

The hubs had never tried it before, and enjoyed it nearly as much as I did. The chewy texture of the rice, the carmelized onions, the sweetness of the wine...just like Mom used to make. Wildly delicious.

Happy Searching!

Ooey Gooey Ultimate Coffee Cake

2011-05-09T20:18:00.000-07:00

How has it been this long? In between delicious meals, I have been grading papers, planning for the end of my first year of teaching (how did that happen?) and finding a few minutes to spend with the hubs. But summer is around the corner, my friends, and although I have discovered first-hand the many challenges of education, I am about to enjoy the biggest perk. Summer vacation will definitely allow for more blogging, so I hope you're hungry.

On to the food! As far as breakfasts go, I am typically more of a savory person (breakfast tacos, eggs benedict, etc.) than sweet. So much so that it took a little convincing from my mother to give this recipe for the Ultimate Coffee Cake a try. "You'll LOVE it!" she kept insisting...

So, when my friend Andi was in town for a visit a few weeks ago, we gave it a whirl and all saltiness aside, this sticky pull-apart is the sweetest breakfast ever. Not just because it is incredibly delicious, but it is the easiest thing I've ever made (including the apology call I had to make to my mother for doubting her recommendation).

Toss some frozen dinner rolls into a bundt pan, sprinkle with brown sugar and butterscotch pudding mix, and drizzle some melted butter over the top (add a few chopped nuts if you're feeling frisky). Rise, bake, eat. And eat. And eat some more (I'm serious, it's hard to stop).

If you have any sort of breakfast function to attend, bring this and you will be a hit, guaranteed. And in case you're wondering, Andi and I were also able to squeeze in a few savory meals. Like breakfast tacos. And mimosas. On a swan. Ultimate fun!

Happy Searching,

p.s. If you're a visual learner (like me) and you'd like to watch Paula make it herself, check that out here.

Tea-riffic Sandwiches

2011-04-17T21:26:00.000-07:00

I love all things dainty, food included. Small, delicate bites like petit fours, tapas, and finger sandwiches are among some of my favorites. They make me feel prettier just by eating them.

And I am usually a big fan of simplicity in the kitchen, but I must say that the attention to detail is partially why I love things like tea sandwiches. I am all about the details. Crusts, which I normally adore (but have no place on a finger sandwich), are lovingly cut off to ensure a perfectly balanced and refined bite.

Well, tea sandwiches appeared on one of our recent weekend menus when we were in the mood for something light. They were the perfect petite treat. Call me superficial, but there's something spectacular about food that both looks and tastes great.

We used a dense, multigrain bread (newly discovered Costco's Kirkland 100% Multigrain--love it!) to create two tasty tea sandwiches: smoked salmon with dill & chive butter and cucumber with an herbed cheese spread (similar to Ina's found here).

I'm sure these sandwiches would have been delicious with tea, but they were really excellent with a glass of chardonnay. Cool, refreshing, lovely little sandwiches. Delicious!

Happy Searching,

Presto Pesto

2011-03-28T20:09:00.000-07:00

Some of the most delicious dishes have come into creation by accident. And sometimes a side dish is so tasty it becomes the main attraction. Both were the case when I whipped up a batch of pesto on a whim the other night.

We needed a little something to complement the main dish--chicken, I think--and after scouring the fridge and pantry, I realized we had some whole wheat pasta and a whole lotta basil. And anytime there's an abundance of basil, I think of pesto. And when we happen to have all of the ingredients on hand (cheese, nuts, olive oil, garlic), I feel like it would be a crime not to make some.

Super fast, super easy, it's a hungry girl's sauce-come-true: throw a clove of garlic, a bunch of basil leaves, salt, pepper, grated cheese, and a handful of nuts (we had sliced almonds) in the food processor. Mix until combined, stream in some good olive oil with the processor running and presto! You've got pesto.

I tossed some rotini with the vibrant green goodness over low heat, then added a splash of cream (since we had some) to finish the sauce. And how did it turn out, you ask? Well, when the hubs can't even tell that the pasta it's on is whole wheat, it's definitely a sauce worth making again.

Happy Searching!

Amazing Asparagus

2011-03-22T21:27:00.000-07:00

Asparagus is one of my all-time favorite veggies. The lovely springtime stems are tied for first place with my other fave, green beans. I could eat boatloads of both, and usually in a similar preparation: lightly steamed, then sauteed with garlic, olive oil, S&P. But during Spring Break, I was reminded of one of the most amazing asparagus dishes. This may be the tiebreaker...

After choosing our delicious main course, my friend Sarah and I stumbled upon Giada's recipe for Prosciutto-Wrapped Roasted Asparagus. It's hard to decide what was more appealing about the recipe...the deliciousness or the simplicity.

Roasting intensified the sweet, nuttiness of the asparagus and made the tips crispy (which I love). And after letting them cool, we got to wrap each one in a little prosciutto overcoat. Just half a slice for each spear, enough to transform the humble vegetables into scrumptious superstars.

Simple. Savory. So amazing.

So what's your favorite veggie? What's your favorite way to prepare it? If you're looking for a new favorite, check out the recipe below.

Happy Searching,

Roasted Asparagus Wrapped in Prosciutto
from Giada De Laurentiis's Everyday Italian

12 asparagus spears [about 1 pound], trimmed
1 TB olive oil
1 tsp salt
1 tsp freshly ground pepper
6 paper-thin slices of prosciutto, halved lengthwise

Preheat the oven to 450 degrees. Peel the bottom half of each asparagus. On a heavy baking sheet, toss the asparagus with the oil, salt, and pepper. Put in the oven and roast until the asparagus is tender, about 15 minutes. Let cool completely.

Wrap each asparagus with 1 piece of prosciutto, exposing the tips. Arrange on a platter and serve at room temperature.

Makes 6 appetizer servings or 3 side servings.

Vodka Sauce with Penne

2011-03-19T21:05:00.000-07:00

I've been taking a little break from writing to enjoy Spring Break and a visit from one of my besties, Sarah. She flew in from New York and was itchin' to experience some suburban activities that she's missed since living in the big city (grocery shopping without taking the subway, cooking in a fully stocked kitchen, etc). I was, of course, more than happy to oblige! We spent our days together shopping, cooking, eating, and reminiscing about our shenanigan-filled friendship.

We sought inspiration from Giada's Everyday Italian cookbook, which I hadn't used in ages. But what a great collection of recipes! We ended up making two delicious dishes and shared a little feast.

The main dish that stole our hearts (and later, stomachs) was the Vodka Sauce with Penne. We started by making our own marinara sauce which was really easy, just required a bit of chopping. Once that was underway, we got the Vodka Sauce simmering (both recipes follow). It was well rounded and had just the right mix of sharp, acidic sweetness (from the vodka and tomatoes) and luscious depth (from the cream and parmesan). And to sassify it a bit, we added some roasted shrimp and sliced cremini mushrooms.

We almost had as much fun making it as we did eating it...almost. It tasted pretty amazing.

Stay tuned for some other scrumptious selections from our Spring Break Menu!

Happy Searching,

Marinara Sauce
from Giada De Laurentis's Everyday Italian
1/2 c. extra virgin olive oil
2 small onions, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
2 celery stalks, finely chopped
2 carrots, peeled and finely chopped
1/2 tsp. sea salt, plus more to taste
1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper, plus more to taste
2 [32 oz] cans crushed tomatoes
2 dried bay leaves

In a large pot, heat the oil over a medium-high flame. Add the onions and garlic and saute until the onions are translucent, about 10 minutes. Add the celery, carrots, and 1/2 tsp each of salt and pepper. Saute until all the vegetables are soft, about 10 minutes. Add the tomatoes and bay leaves, and simmer uncovered over low heat until the sauce thicken, about 1 hour. Remove and discard the bay leaves. Season the sauce with more salt and pepper to taste. [The sauce can be made 1 day ahead. Cool, then cover and refrigerate. Rewarm over medium heat before using.]

Makes about 2 quarts/8 cups.

Vodka Sauce
from Giada De Laurentis's Everyday Italian
3 c. Marinara Sauce
1 c. vodka
1/2 c. heavy cream, at room temperature
1/2 c. grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 tsp salt, plus more to taste
1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper, plus more to taste

In a large heavy skillet, simmer the marinara sauce and vodka over low heat, stirring until the mixture reduces by one fourth, about 20 minutes. Stir in the cream and continue to simmer over low heat until the sauce is heated through. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the Parmesan, 1/2 tsp of salt, and 1/4 tsp of pepper. Season the sauce with more salt & pepper to taste.

Avgolemeno

2011-03-06T19:38:00.000-08:00

Sometimes I become a little preoccupied with a particular dish or ingredient. I will go through phases of craving something for days and weeks on end. A few years ago, I went through a peanut butter-banana phase, where I so loved the combination, I could hardly have one without the other. I've gone through a grapefruit phase, where I had one for breakfast and then another for a snack (this went on for a couple of weeks). It's like I just can't get enough of a good thing!

A few years ago, I went through an avgolemeno phase. I made it once a week for over a month. I was crazy for avgolemeno. It's easy to see why...it's a deliciously simple yet incredibly flavorful Greek soup. And it has some of my all-time favorite ingredients: lemon, eggs, and pasta (orzo, a rice-shaped pasta to be exact).

The other night when we were on the tail end of our grocery supply, I realized we had all the key ingredients and was resourcefully inspired to whip up a batch. It was just as tasty as I remembered, and just as easy.

All you have to do is boil some chicken broth, throw in the orzo, whisk up some eggs and lemon juice, and combine it in one big pot (okay, it's almost that simple...check out all the recipe deets here). We were out of parsley (which is the garnish the recipe calls for) but we had some dill which was even tastier. It's a traditional Greek herb, after all. I also topped it with a little arugula and some shaved Pecorino Romano cheese for a bit of flavor and texture contrast.

Because the eggs are slowly heated by the broth, they create a thick and creamy base. The lemon provides just the right amount of tart acidity to balance the richness of the eggs. And the orzo is delicately suspended in the slightly sour soup.

Bright, creamy, perfectly salty. It's definitely worth obsessing over.

Happy Searching!

California Crab BLTs

2011-02-28T07:05:00.000-08:00

As some of you may know, the Mister and I love us some crab. Whenever there's an excuse to have some celebratory cuisine (holidays, birthdays, days that end in "y", etc.) crab is one of our go-to ingredients (as evidenced here). The occasion that had us feeling crabby this time? Super Bowl Sunday (aka Super Snack Sunday, which is definitely my favorite football event).

After some preliminary hors d'oeuvres (here and here), we sunk our teeth into these amazing Cali Crab BLTs. I mean, check it out!

We wanted an upscale take on the classic sandy, so we substituted a few ingredients from the basic recipe. The first step was removing all the meat from the crab legs and claws (which was a much easier task with the use of some kitchen shears).

We started with a fresh loaf of sourdough bread (left whole, so we could cut Texas Toast-sized slices ourselves). Once the bread was lightly toasted, we spread a lemon aioli (lemon zest, lemon juice, mayo, S&P) on both pieces. Then we layered some arugula, big chunks of crab, avocado (there's the California part), lots of bacon, tomato, and another little sprinkle of S&P.

The flavors were simple enough that you could taste each one individually, but worked so harmoniously well together. The lemon in the aioli gave the crab the perfect zing. The salty bacon, juicy tomatoes, and peppery arugula...all smooshed together between tangy sourdough toast...Sandwich Heaven!

Happy Searching,

Our New Favorite Dip

2011-02-24T06:57:00.000-08:00

In planning our Super Bowl Menu, the hubs and I agreed we needed to include a dip. We weighed our options: Spinach Artichoke Dip, this yummy cheese dip from a while back, tried-and-true queso (Rotel + Velveeta, for all you non-Texans out there). But we really wanted to try something different. Thankfully, a few days before the big game, I stumbled upon this delicious recipe for Buffalo Chicken Dip on the Mad Hungry blog. It combined our hankering for hot wings and dip into one tasty snack!

Truthfully, the picture doesn't do this dip justice. The color of the dip was not very photographically flattering, but trust me--this dip is awesome (would I lie to you?).

The recipe calls for the chicken breasts to be poached, but our favorite method for maximizing flavor is to roast them (more here). With the chicken in the oven, I mixed up the cream cheese, mayo, sour cream, hot sauce, blue cheese, and lemon juice. Once the breasts cooled, I shredded the meat and tossed it with the other ingredients. Baked for 20 minutes, topped with chives and a few blue cheese crumblies and this dip was delectable.

We spread it on some toasted baguette slices (the recipe called for Fritos, but they're not my fave). And the spicy, creamy, verdict? Yep, it's our new favorite.

What dip do you love?

Happy Searching,

Potato, Potahto

2011-02-21T20:57:00.000-08:00

Although the ancestry on my dad's side has been somewhat unclear (I've been told we're a bit Welsh, a bit English, maybe a bit German), I'm fairly certain there's some Irish in there. Why? Well, I do love the color green. But the most convincing reason is my love for potatoes. They are in total alignment with my love for other starches and complete my Holy Carbohydrate Trinity (bread, pasta, and potatoes). Amen.

I like potatoes all ways...I'm a non-discriminatory potato supporter. If it wasn't for me trying to fit into my pants, I'd probably squeeze them into every meal. I love them for breakfast in the form of homefries, hashbrowns, and tater tots (in that order). French fries hold a special place in my heart (and although I've tried them all over the world, Mickey D's is still my numero uno...Andi, I know you agree). I love 'em baked, mashed, scalloped, or roasted.

Now granted potatoes do have some nutritional value in the way of Vitamin C and Potassium, those benefits are slightly offset when they are topped with bacon, cheese, and sour cream.

But these Twice Baked Potatoes are worth it. My mom used to make them all the time when I was growing up and we decided to include them in our Super Bowl Snack Fest. They were super easy to make, too!

We baked the potatoes until they were slightly undercooked, scooped out the insides, and mixed them with butter, grated cheese, sour cream, and S&P. Then, we put them back into their skins (which we rubbed with a little oil and S&P so they would crisp up). We topped them with more grated cheese, crumbled bacon, and baked them @ 350 for about 20 minutes, until everything had melted and heated through.

A little sour cream dollop and some snipped chives finished off these starchy superstars. Potato? Potahto? Now matter how you say it, these were deelish!

So, how do you like your potatoes? :)

Happy Searching!

Chili Weather

2011-02-04T16:41:00.000-08:00

It has been more than a little bit chilly lately...it's been downright cold. Although we haven't had the blizzards and below-zero temperatures like other parts of the country, it's been cold enough here in Austin. Cold enough to bring a bit of snow, cancel school for a day, and work up a hankering for some belly-warming food.

A bowl (or maybe two) of this chili was just the kind of cozy meal I needed. It was one tasty (and mostly nutritious) chili, courtesy of the hubs.

He started by browning the turkey and turkey sausage (about a pound and a half of turkey and a pound of sausage). Then he drained it and used the same pan to sautee 2 chopped onions, 3 cloves of chopped garlic, 3 poblanos (roughly chopped), and 3 jalepenos (with seeds and ribs if you like it hotter; without if not). He tossed in a good amount of cumin along with some chili powder, oregano, smoked paprika, and cayenne, salt and pepper.

Then, he added 2 cans of drained white beans (canellini or Great Nothern), a small jar of drained roasted red peppers and the drained meat. He squeezed in the juice of 2 limes, a handful of chopped cilantro, and a quart of chicken stock. He covered it, brought it to a boil and then dropped it down to a simmer for about an hour. After everything had softened and the flavors had melded together, Ryan made a little roux to thicken the chili and simmered it for another 30 minutes.

The soup had the perfect warmth, both temperature and spice wise. A dollop of sour cream, chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, and grated cheese were the perfect complements to the smoky cumin and the spice of the jalepenos.

With this bowl of balanced deliciousness, suddenly it doesn't seem so cold. What keeps you toasty on these cold winter days?

Happy Searching,

Shrimp? Sure!

2011-01-28T17:07:00.000-08:00

So, the holiday heyday and subsequent aftermath is finally coming to a close. Time to get back on track. Time to burn more calories, consume less, and try not to sacrifice all sense of culinary joy in the process.

The good news? It's definitely possible. Healthy eating doesn't necessarily equate to bland, boring eating. For me, it's all about lean but flavorful ingredients and smaller portions. Shrimpy portions, actually!

Shrimp has always been one of our favorite quick and easy protein choices. It's incredibly versatile, low in fat, and most importantly...delicious! We use shrimp in all sorts of dishes, from these mini-tostadas to Greek-inspired pita wraps with tzatziki sauce.

Today, we got a good deal on a pound of jumbo shrimp (I know, what an oxymoron...jumbo shrimp) so we kept the flavors simple since the big ones are so succulent. Ryan marinated them in olive oil, lemon zest, garlic, and S&P. After he roasted them at 400 (with the shells on--our favorite method for cooking them because it keeps them juicy and flavorful), he finished them with a bit of lemon juice, olive oil, and fresh dill.

Served atop a bed of whole wheat couscous with some sauteed asparagus on the side, shrimpy portions never tasted so good!

What dish do you turn to when you need some tasty, lighter fare?

Happy Searching,

p.s. I had to immediately put the extras in the fridge for fear that my portion size would jump from shrimpy to jumbo. We all have our battles, right?

Five Stars for Five Spice Pork

2011-01-25T19:38:00.000-08:00

One of the most recognizable flavors in Asian cooking is probably Chinese five spice. If you don't recognize the name, you would probably recognize the taste--the flavor is not shy and is used in several Asian dishes.

Five spice is comprised of (cleverly enough) five spices: star anise, cloves, cinnamon, szechuan pepper, and ground fennel. Sometimes, it can be a bit overpowering. But these five spiced-pork chops we had the other night? Stood right up to the bold flavors and made my taste buds hum with delight.

The full menu included five spice-pork chops with a cilantro-jalepeno cream sauce, hash browns, and spicy sesame green beans.

The pork chops were lightly rubbed with five spice, S&P, then seared over medium-high heat in some olive oil to get a crispy crust. After being finished in the oven (because they were seriously thick), they got topped with a luxurious cilantro cream sauce (cilantro, jalepeno, garlic, green onion, white wine, cream).

Let me just say that I wish I had a plate of this in front of me right now. Five stars!

What are some of your favorite, go-to spices? Do tell!

Happy Searching!

p.s. Interested in more specific recipe details? Leave a request in the comments section and we'll get 'em to ya!

I Heart Carne Asada

2011-01-22T06:29:00.000-08:00

In case you don't know how much I love (and miss) SoCal Mexican food, this post will bring you up to speed. Or I'll just tell you now. Mucho. I miss it mucho.

The best carne asada burrito I've ever had is from El Portal in San Diego. So, thankfully, Ryan and I were able to snag some nostalgia in the form of two giant carne asada burritos during our visit to San Diego over Christmas. Unfortunately, the picture doesn't come close to doing them justice. (I was much more concerned with eating my burrito than photographing it at the time...the trouble with being a hungry girl).

The burritos at El Portal are fabulously balanced with just the right amount of fresh guacamole, pico de gallo and lean meat, all wrapped tightly in a homemade tortilla. El Portal's meat is what really steals the show, though. It's chargrilled, full of flavor, and incredibly tender. Holy smokes, I could eat some right this second.

And did I mention that these burritos are big? HUGE. I mean, as big as your head. Really! Here's some perspective:

This photo went up with much dispute (I'm sorry, Senor Blake) but it's really the only way to show just how gigantic these burritos are. Normally, a burrito this size would have a little bit of meat, a lot of rice, and some salsa and fixings. At El Portal? Almost all meat. Carne asada, you are my numero uno.

Happy Searching,

My Favorite Meal

2011-01-20T06:10:00.000-08:00

There really isn't a time when I don't enjoy eating. Just woke up? Starving. Back from a jog? Immediately famished. Sick? A snack ~~usually~~ always makes me feel better. Choosing my favorite meal time may appear to be challenging, but what would normally be a difficult decision is surprisingly easy. My favorite meal is brunch. It's the best of both breakfast and lunch. Genius.

In addition to the word itself (it sounds so bright and elegant and deliciously promising) and the fact that it's usually served on a weekend (relaxation), brunch offers several of my favorite things. Coffee? Yep.
Prefer champagne? (Who doesn't?) Check. Breakfast choices when your sweet tooth is flaring up (like French toast or pancakes)? Yup. Savory indulgences like Eggs Benedict smothered in hollandaise? You betcha.

A few months ago, we went to brunch at Enoteca Vespaio and enjoyed a relaxing morning of coffee, conversation, and brunchy bites.

We were both feeling more savory than sweet, even though I was tempted by the bread basket served with Nutella and marmalade. Ryan ordered the Croque Madame, a classic French version of a ham and cheese sandwich. Gruyere cheese and smoky ham, baked until golden bubbly and then topped with two perfect eggs. Mmmmmm.

I settled on the poached eggs with spinach, roasted tomatoes and brown butter hollandaise and was not disappointed. Fresh spinach, intensely flavored tomatoes, golden yolked-eggs cooked to perfection. The side of carmelized onion homefries alone were worth the price of admission. Yum. And the brown butter hollandaise? I seriously considered licking it off the plate.

Truthfully, Ryan's looked prettier (hence the pic), but mine tasted better. Both were good, but mine was awesome.

The next time we have a hankering for a bistro brunch, we plan to head back. I've already got my eye on the pressed prosciutto, fontina, arugula, and truffled egg panino. Doesn't that sound amazing?

Ahhh, brunch. Where are your favorite spots?

Happy Searching!

Resolution Rings

2011-01-18T18:19:00.000-08:00

Ahhh, it's good to be back. New year. New ideas. New resolutions. Wait, what?!?!

No, one of my resolutions isn't to gain 30 pounds. Quite the opposite, in fact. But when life hands you onions, you make onion rings. That's right. Homemade, sweet, crunchy, onion rings.

Ryan whipped these up last night and they were sooooo light and crispy. They were 'magic' rings, disappearing quite quickly (sometimes after only a few seconds out of the fryer). The trick is to use club soda in the batter--the effervescence makes the batter super airy and light. If you're ever in the market for homemade rings, this recipe was da bomb (and surprisingly easy...you could totally get away with making them in a big pot if you didn't have a fryer). Five ingredients and an appetite--that's all you need!

Truth be told, we haven't started our New Year's Resolutions quite yet. I'm thinking we'll be digging in around the first of February. In the mean time, we have been enjoying our new ice cream maker, the deep fryer, and gluttony in general. (And a new camera to snap even more delectable shots of it all).

More posts to come!

Happy Searching,

Pasta Para Uno: Carbonara

2010-09-21T06:00:00.000-07:00

When my chef is unavailable or out of town (as he is currently), I am forced to cook for myself. I use the word "forced" in jest--sort of. I love to cook, but since dinner has been ready when I get home from work for nearly a year, I am a little rusty (and a little bit spoiled).

One of my go-to meals when I am dining solo is Pasta Carbonara. Bacon? Eggs? Pasta? Buonissima! My favorite everyday pasta is linguine, so I made Linguine Carbonara. It's quick, easy, and luxurious--a perfect dinner for one!

All you do throw some noodles in boiling water and while they cook, beat an egg, cheese, fresh ground pepper, and a smidge of cream together (I used fat-free half and half since it was all we had on hand, and it worked fine). Toss with the pasta and some crumbled bacon (even though the recipe calls for pancetta) and you'll be in the best company ever.

The next time you're in need of a quick and tasty meal, go for some Carbonara. This recipe from Giada will hit the spot!

Happy Searching!

Pigs in a Blanket for Pigskin Season

2010-09-19T19:14:00.000-07:00

If I had to pick a favorite season, I would have to choose summer. My husband's favorite season? Football season.

Truthfully, I don't get nearly as excited about the sport itself but the snacks that come along with it are reason enough for me to rally! Although we like to try out fancy recipes and nouveau cuisine, we also love a tried-and-true classic.

I couldn't remember the last time we made Pigs in a Blanket, so we broke out the weenies and crescent rolls and went to town!

In an effort to refrain from being totally gluttonous, I used Turkey Lil' Smokies and reduced fat crescent rolls. But cutting calories did not cut the deliciousness--they were so yummy! Of course, if you made the full fat version and had a side-by-side tasting, you would definitely notice a difference (the reduced fat rolls are less buttery and flaky, but still good).

And...they were easy peasy. I just kept the dough in tact (I pinched any seams together that were coming apart after popping open the can), brushed it with a little honey mustard (adds flavor and keeps the pigs moist) and cut strips slightly narrower than the weenies. Then I wrapped 'em, baked 'em seam side down @ 350 for 10-15 minutes and voila! A classic! Tasty Pigs in a Blanket. Haven't tried them in a while either? You should!

Happy Searching,

Who Put the Dip in the Dip Da Dip Da Dip?

2010-09-10T05:00:00.000-07:00

During one of our Saturday Smorgasports, we felt like having a dip of some sort. Ryan found a recipe from one of our newer cookbooks that looked promising. It can be risky to venture into unknown culinary territory, but it often pays off. This recipe definitely did--it was not only delicious, but super easy (which is exactly what we love)!

The next time you have to take an hors d'oeuvres dish somewhere or feel like trying a new dip just because, whip this up, courtesy of The Deen Brothers! It's great with pretzels, potato chips, and bread.

Happy Searching!

Melon Heaven

2010-09-07T05:00:00.000-07:00

At the end of July, we took a mini-road trip up to Oklahoma to visit Ryan's family. After catching up with everyone (and getting some good Oklahoma eats), we took the scenic route back to avoid traffic and mix up the drive.

One of the greatest things about the back roads in this section of the country (aside from some hilarious photo ops) is the produce. In the summertime, there are roadside stands outside of every town offering their prized watermelons and cantaloupes. We bought one of each from a friendly fella and moseyed on our way.

I have to say that melons from the supermarket don't even come close to these...these were incredible. We sliced them up and savored their juicy goodness, summer dripping off of each bite. Even though they were good on their own, my favorite way to eat cantaloupe--especially really good cantaloupe--is on top of really good vanilla ice cream.

Holy smokes, I almost forgot how much I love this. It's unbelievably simple, but unbelievably good. If you are a cantaloupe fan, this is a must-try. You'll thank me later.

Stay tuned for more melon posts...we had lots to consume and enjoyed trying out some new recipes!

Happy Searching,

Buffalo Chicken Sliders

2010-09-04T16:16:00.000-07:00

Well, it's been a long time, my friends! My apologies for the long hiatus...I've had a few irons in the fire. Running my own classroom of seven- and eight-year olds for the very first time plus a mild case of pneumonia have required my full attention these past few weeks. Fun, overwhelming, and exhausting pretty much sum up the experience. Even though I've been busy, though, it doesn't mean I haven't been eating deliciously (thank you, Ryan)!

A few weeks back, the chef himself was craving some hot wings (which are some of my favorite pub-grub items as well). Without a good wing joint nearby, he improvised and ended up creating my new favorite treats: Buffalo Chicken Sliders.

They seemed to be fairly simple to put together: Cut the chicken breasts to fit the slider buns, bread them (flour, then egg, then breadcrumbs), and toss them in a mixture of melted butter and Louisana hot sauce (Ryan basically followed the recipe on the bottle).

Place them on toasted slider buns (we found these little gems at our regular grocery store and they're awesome). Add a dollop of homemade blue cheese dressing (recipe below), some lettuce and diced red onion and you are in business--Scrumptious Buffalo Business! Served along side some roasted potatoes and a cucumber tomato salad, these sliders are so tasty--they'll become your new fave, too. Give 'em a try!

Best Blue Cheese Dressing
Equal parts mayo & sour cream
Blue cheese crumbles (as many or few as you like)
Chopped chives
Squeeze of lemon
S&P

Mix all together. Dressing is thick--add milk to thin out if using for salad.

Happy Searching!

Grill-icious

2010-08-06T05:00:00.000-07:00

A few weeks back, we kicked off our visit to San Diego with a fabulous dinner. Personally, I don't think there's a better way to begin a vacation. A delicious meal sets the tone for the trip and allows you to relax while you plan out your itinerary (i.e., what meals you're going to eat for the duration of your trip). So, we threw some goodies on the grill, grabbed a glass of wine, and got into total chill mode.

Ryan & Papa C have definitely become grill masters (they even hand-cut their own steaks from a giant slab of beef, Flintstone-style). After getting the coals nice and hot, they put some simply seasoned ribeyes on the grill. The boys have tried various marinades and spices over the years, but have discovered that less is more: olive oil, salt (or Lawry's), and pepper is all that's necessary to enhance the smokey flavor of the meat.

Nothing goes better with grilled steaks than grilled side dishes. Ryan whipped up an amazing fingerling potato salad. He steamed the potatoes a bit to start them cooking, then finished them off on the grill. The potato party also included some crumbled goat cheese, microgreens, crispy bacon, and a light lemon-dijon vinaigrette. Once it was tossed all together and served, an embarrassing amount of oohing and aahing ensued. (Remember the dinner scene from "What About Bob?" It was kinda like that).

The only thing missing now? Some corn on the cob. But not just any corn on the cob. Corn with a homemade cilantro butter, courtesy of Mama C. Holy kernels, it was delicious! How did she do it? She took some finely chopped cilantro, minced garlic, salt, and pepper and mixed it into softened butter. She popped it into the fridge to harden a bit, then brought it out for us to slather all over our sweet summer corn. Three ears later, I was nearly in a corn-coma. So good!

So fire up the coals, grab a glass of wine or a cold brew and enjoy the smokey relaxation of the grill. The burning question: what do you like to chill with? Burgers? Beer-can-chicken? If it's grill-icious, do tell!

Happy Searching!

Wacky Word Wednesday

2010-08-04T09:14:00.000-07:00

chiffonade (pronounced "shif-FUH-nod"): A way of cutting large leaf herbs that produce fine ribbons obtained by tightly rolling the leaves and slicing across in thin cuts.
The recipe called for a chiffonade of basil as a garnish for the pasta.

Want to see a quick demo of how to make a chiffonade cut? Click here!

Happy Searching!

*Information courtesy of www.italian-cooking-made-easy.com/cooking-terms.html

The Great BBQ Debate

2010-08-02T12:36:00.000-07:00

There are few dilemmas in our household when it comes to BBQ. Thankfully, there are no disagreements about where to get it: the best bbq is at the Salt Lick, unanimously. (It's the one that's been featured on tons of shows on both Food Network and The Travel Channel).

We both know where to go. Our debate surrounds what to order when we get there. The two topics in question?

1. Beef vs. Pork (Ryan vs. Jen)
2. To Side or Not to Side (Jen vs. Ryan)

Pork Baby Backs with Sides

Beef Ribs with Sides

1. Beef vs. Pork (Ryan vs. Jen)
If the Salt Lick had bacon, I'm pretty sure this one would easily go to the pig. But, Ryan had the Beef Ribs for the first time a few Sundays ago and I've never seen a man eat with such conviction. I had the Pork Baby Back Ribs (which were incredible), but Ryan said (and I quote) "These beef ribs are so good, I want to hang the bones up above the mantle."

We don't even have a mantle (thank goodness) but Ryan says those were hands-down the best ribs he's ever had. I think I prefer the pork ribs since they are a bit leaner; Ryan likes the beef because they are fattier and meatier. Where do you weigh in on the meat debate?

2. To Eat or Not to Eat Sides (Jen vs. Ryan)
Sides are given their name for a reason--they're not the main dish and are often forgettable. (Ryan claims that they just take up valuable stomach real estate.) And, I have to say, traditional bbq sides don't do much for me. But. The Salt Lick has mastered theirs.

The potato salad is unlike anything I've ever tasted, and I think that's why I can't turn it down. In more of a German-style application (vinegar/mustard based) with sesame oil (strange, I know, but trust me) and diced onions. The coleslaw is crisp without having a raw cabbage texture and isn't drowning in dressing--it's fresh, flavorful, and the perfect compliment to a roll topped with brisket. And the beans--oh, the beans. They are probably the plainest of the three sides but their simplicity is what wins me over. Pinto beans in a pinto sauce...I don't know even how they do it. So, what do you think--sides or not?

I'm not sure we'll reach a timely conclusion on these issues, but I'm happy to eat Ryan's serving of potato salad in the meantime.

Happy Searching,

Chilaquiles...Every Time

2010-07-31T05:00:00.000-07:00

I know I said in a previous post that I like to branch out and try new things, but I'm beginning to think I led you astray...every time I go to the Old Town Mexican Cafe in San Diego, I get the exact same thing: the chilaquiles with red sauce, my eggs over easy, and a side of corn tortillas.

I've tried to order other dishes, I really have. They have terrific cheese enchiladas and their carne asada is great. But. I've ordered chilaquiles elsewhere and I've never tasted any that are half as good as the ones from Old Town Mex. So that's what I order...every time.

Chilaquiles are basically corn tortillas (or day old tortilla chips) baked in an enchilada-type sauce, then topped with eggs, green onions, and queso fresco (a crumbly Mexican cheese). Served beside a generous spoonful of refried beans (also topped with melted cheese), I cannot resist them.

The combination may sound strange. It may look odd, what with the egg-yolk-river and all. And I understand your hesitation. All I can say is that when you tear off some of that homemade corn tortilla and wrap it around the perfect ratio of eggs, beans, chips, and cheese, you know what delicious is. And you just may not order anything else again.

Happy Searching,

Wacky Word Wednesday

2010-07-28T05:00:00.000-07:00

On a regular basis, I come across cooking words that I have no idea how to pronounce (half the time, I'm not even sure what they mean...until I look them up).

Sooooo, I decided I would share what I learn. Wednesdays will now be reserved for wacky cooking-related words I come across (along with some clarifying pronunciation). Enjoy!

Today's word?

boule (pronounced like "cool"): A round loaf of white bread.

We enjoyed a sourdough boule with mussels and white wine.

Happy Searching!

*Information courtesy of Answers.com & m-w.com

Holy Crab!

2010-07-22T05:00:00.000-07:00

I realized it's been awhile since I've showcased one of Ryan's masterpieces (even though I eat them all the time). This dish was inspired by one of our favorite indulgences, crab legs. Caught fresh from the Costco Seafood Road Show, two or three legs usually satisfies our appetite for a taste of luxury. This time, those legs had a fancier fate than simply being dipped in butter. They put on a tuxedo and hopped into pasta baked with four cheeses.

That's right...Holy crab! Crab Mac & Cheese, ya'll! Let me just tell you, it was out of this world.

The recipe was a hybrid of Ina Garten's & Emeril Lagasse's. After removing all of the crabmeat and boiling the pasta, Ryan made a homemade four-cheese sauce: Gruyere, Pecorino Romano, Fontina, Parrano. Sauteed onions and garlic, pancetta, and chives made the sauce ooze with flavor. The nutty, sharp, creamy, salty cheese sauce surrounded bits of crab, chives, and cavatappi pasta (which is my absolute favorite pasta shape, by the way).

Tossed together, scooped into a glass baking dish, and topped with tomatoes and buttered bread crumbs...

...this was the end result. I can't tell you how hard it was to wait for the 10 minute "cool time". So after 9 minutes, I dished up a hearty portion (I already knew it was going to be good), and drizzled it with teensy bit of White Truffle Oil (one of our William's-Sonoma gift card splurges).

Ho-LY CRAB! Luscious, perfectly rich, make-your-mouth-sing delicious.

Happy Searching,

Mission: Popover

2010-07-20T16:16:00.000-07:00

Inspiration struck like lightning last night during an episode of The Best Thing I Ever Ate. The hubs and I were both nearly drooling as Tyler Florence described his favorite appetizer--popovers--from BLT Steak in NewYork City.

We both said, "We should make those...tomorrow!" (Only because we needed to buy the pan and Williams-Sonoma wasn't open at that hour). Twelve hours and $20 later, we were ready to go.

Having never attempted these doughy delights, we were both surprised at how easy they were to make. The batter is only four ingredients: milk, flour, salt and eggs. Mix it all up, pour the batter into the pan, and top each one with cheese (the BLT recipe calls for Gruyere, which is a Swiss cheese...nutty and scrumptious)! Bake for 50 minutes at 350 degrees and...

...what emerges from the oven are edible, cheesy clouds. Like savory cream puffs, these popovers were everything a good popover should be: airy and light with a few custardy crevices and a golden crust.

Split one open and spread on a little butter lovin'--and you're tasting something amazing. I should warn you that they don't keep very well, so you may feel compelled to eat ~~all of them~~ several in one warm, cheesy, heavenly sitting (not that I did anything of the sort)...

Mission Popover=Deliciously accomplished!

Happy Searching,

Ode to Taco Shops

2010-07-14T21:32:00.000-07:00

Taco shops, oh taco shops

Your greasy grub is the best

Although others try to compete,

Your Mexican food beats the rest!

You're one of my favorite features

Of the Southern California scene

Tex-Mex is not Mexican Food

(and I'm sorry if that sounds mean...)

But Robertos, Albertos, Sombreros,

Juanitas, Los Panchos and more

Serve in-and-out grub with minimal flair

And delicious choices galore!

Carne Asada's a favorite of mine

But Carnitas are tasty as well

Burritos as big as your head, if you want

And their beans are better than swell

We got our fix from Lolita's

And their comida lived up to its name

A Chula Vista childhood fave,

They were on top of their game

Five Super Rolled Tacos

With guac, lettuce, crema and cheese,

And Carne Asada Fries?

You bet! Por favor! Yes, please!

And one California Burrito

Full of French fries, cheese, guacamole

Some Carne Asada to top it all off...

Dios Mio! Delish! Holy Moley!

For now, I'll be dreaming of salsa

And homemade tortillas, too...

Until next time, Taco Shoppies,

I bid you a delicious adieu!

Happy Searching!

Fair Fare

2010-07-11T22:09:00.000-07:00

Summer in San Diego offers so much to see and do...and eat! One of the greatest traditions in America's Finest City is the San Diego Fair, which is held in Del Mar right off the coast. Picturesque and packed with people, it's full of the usual fair staples:

1. Cool exhibits (butter sculptures, anyone?)
2. Lots of cute animals (newborn baby goats...awww!)
3. Fun rides & games (huge ferris wheel overlooking the ocean=priceless views)
4. FAIR FOOD!

I love 1, 2, and 3, but (not surprisingly) I look forward to 4 the most.

The volume and variety of deep-fried cuisine is kind of overwhelming: fried pickles, fried Pop Tarts, fried Klondike bars, fried s'mores, fried butter. Fried butter?! Yep (didn't try it, but heard it was quite tasty). Your arteries practically start to clog when you enter the fair gates.

If that's not enough to get you going, you could always snag some chocolate-covered bacon or a zucchini weenie (a hot dog stuffed into a whole hollowed out zucchini, then battered and fried like a corn dog). Tempting, no?

But one of my favorite fair foods is the classic giant turkey leg. Given the large selection of indulgent treats, however, I wasn't completely sold...until I caught a whiff of the grill. My nose led me straight to the medieval-looking meats, all in a golden brown row.

Smoky, crispy, tender. Alongside a basket of fried zucchini strips, which were coated in a light, tempura-like batter (and served with thee fair condiment, ranch dressing)? Deeeeelicious.

This year's fair fare definitely met my greatest expectations. It was greasy. It was gluttonous. It was good!

Happy Searching,

Summer Strawberry Pie

2010-07-01T07:12:00.001-07:00

Growing up, having a summer birthday was sort of a bummer. Your birthday didn't really get acknowledged in school and when it came time for your party, your friends were likely away on vacation. But...there were definitely some perks. June birthdays= no school, perfect weather for pool parties, and strawberry season. And to me, that means one thing: my mom's strawberry pie.

For birthdays, cake may seem like the obvious dessert choice but I have never been a classic birthday cake kind of gal (that's my hubby's department). Although I can appreciate a good cake, I gravitate towards the more unconventional birthday desserts like fruit tarts, ice cream cake, or pies.

The thing is...I'm kind of picky. I don't really like pies unless they're homemade. And I don't mean to be such a snob, but after being raised by a mother who's even made her own ketchup, the grocery store pies just don't do anything for me.

But this pie? This pie makes my eyes roll back in my head. When I take that first bite, I need a moment of silence to honor it's deliciousness.

The strawberries, of course, have to be ripe and sweet. The glaze (which is simply mashed strawberries, sugar, water, and cornstarch) is just sweet enough to enhance the strawberry essence. The homemade whipped cream is light as a cloud. I mean, is there any dessert that sings summertime more than this?

My mom always swore this pie was "so easy" to make and after watching her it, I have to agree. Her recipe is close to this one, but she uses half the amount of sugar in the glaze. It's still sweet, but you can always add more if you like it sweeter.

If you like strawberries, you have to try this pie...you don't even have to make your own dough. Get a frozen pre-made pie crust (Mama B even approves of this shortcut), get some strawberries, and get ready for your mouth to do the happy dance! One bite and you'll know that summertime has officially arrived...

Happy Searching,

Burger Bliss @ Cherry Cricket

2010-06-30T07:59:00.000-07:00

Have you ever seen the Food Network show Best Thing I Ever Ate? Being the food lovers that we are, it's one that we view regularly. Chefs reveal their favorite dishes within a certain theme (best breakfast, best barbeque, etc). I actually don't have a lot of absolute favorites (I like to keep my options open). But if I were on the show about burgers, I'd know exactly what I'd pick. The best burger I ever ate? The Little Cricket Burger at Cherry Cricket in Denver, CO.

The Cricket is a Denver mainstay that's been around since 1945. After changing hands (and locations) a few times, it's still serving up fantastic burgers and brewskis in the chic Cherry Creek district.

What makes the burgers so unparalleled is that each ingredient is incredibly delicious. The beef, which has just the right amount of fat and is cooked to order, sits atop a fresh-baked bun that perfectly absorbs the patty's juices. The menu lists over 20 toppings to choose from so you can customize to heart's content. In the mood for a White Cheddar-Grilled Onion-BBQ Sauce combo? Or maybe you feel like Blue Cheese Crumbles & Sauteed Mushrooms? It isn't easy to decide, but you really can't go wrong.

This time, I went with a Bacon-Smoked Cheddar-Green Chile Strip version and threw on an onion ring for good measure. The result? Absolute burger bliss. Alongside a basket of fries and an icy cold Coors, I experienced burger euphoria.

If you're ever in Denver, it's a must. And if you're not? Well, it just may be worth the trip.

Happy Searching!

p.s. Hats off to Mama & Papa B for introducing me to this little piece of heaven--they're Denver natives and have been dining at the Cricket for years. Muah!

Pleasin' Indonesian Chicken

2010-06-24T11:42:00.000-07:00

Looking for an easy and flavorful way to prepare chicken? Look no further! Indonesian Ginger Chicken (courtesy of Ina Garten) is incredibly tasty and couldn't be easier.

I wanted to deliver a meal to one of my friends who just had a baby and this chicken seemed perfect. Simple without being boring, the chicken is marinated overnight in soy, honey, garlic, and ginger. Ina's recipe called for 2 whole chickens (cut up), but I just used a mix of what was on sale. I got a package of drumsticks and and a package of breasts (which I cut in half because they were huge...like, double Ds).

Put them in the fridge, then put them in the oven the next day. After an hour (and removing the foil halfway to crisp up the glazed skin), the chicken is done. Served with steamed rich and some sauteed veggies, this Indonesian was pleasin'. Easy? Yes. Delicious? Absolutely!

Happy Searching,

Fish Dish

2010-06-18T17:33:00.000-07:00

After the debut of the new Cooking Channel, I was inspired to try a new fish dish. Although I didn't follow the recipe exactly, the final product did not disappoint! Roast Halibut with Smoked Tomato Vinaigrette was the perfect light summer meal.

Now, the recipe calls for you to make your own smoker, smoke your tomatoes, all that jazz...I didn't do that. Instead, I opened a can of tomatoes, tossed them in a few TB of olive oil and a few drops of liquid smoke (potent stuff, so just a smidge), and roasted them on a cookie sheet until their sauce had evaporated.

This method gave me similar smoky, intense tomato flavor without the hassle of a trying to MacGyver a homemade smoker (which would've turned out more MacGruber). Liquid smoke was the key. If you haven't tried it before, don't be scared. It's basically inexpensive BBQ essence in liquid form and is great in marinades, BBQ sauces, etc. And a little goes a long way, so it lasts forever.

After the tomatoes were roasted, I put the them in a food processor, whirred them around until they were smooth and then streamed in some olive oil. Vinaigrette done!

I followed the recipe pretty closely when cooking the fish: a bit of oil in a hot pan, put the fillets in (skin side down) and cooked them until they were golden and crispy. Gave them a flip then tossed them in a 375 degree oven to finish cooking all the way through.

I tossed some spinach and fresh corn (right off the cob) in a bit of the vinaigrette, then plated it all up like this:

First, I poured a bit of vinaigrette in the bottom of the bowl (which was actually more like a tomato broth). Next, I placed the halibut in the bowl. Finally, I topped it with the lightly-dressed spinach & corn. Fresh, nutritious, and very delicious!

Happy Searching,

Madam Mam's is Thai-riffic

2010-06-13T21:05:00.000-07:00

Do you ever go to a restaurant and order the exact same thing every time? Being the lovers of food that we are, Ryan and I make it a point to expand our gastronomical horizons and sample different dishes. But. I love me some curry. And I just can't seem to make it past the Panang...

Thai cuisine--I know--is much more than just curry. I mean no disrespect to the culture or culinary world by seeming so narrow-minded. But this is one of those instances where I find a good thing and stick with it. Panang Curry is my Thai version of "If it ain't broke, don't fix it". I order it every single time.

Sure, I'm willing to try other things (usually off of Ryan's plate, since I always order the same thing). It's just that I love the contrast of the spicy red curry, the cool coconut milk, and the sweet Thai basil, all swimming together in a luxurious broth.

Madam Mam's is just the place for my Thai fix. It's a perfect example of why you shouldn't judge a book by its cover; at first glance, it appears to be a bit rundown. The plywood signs adorning the restaurant have been painted bubblegum pink with red letters.

So when we entered and found these bright, whimsical umbrellas hanging from the ceiling,

our reservations were beginning to fade away. Enter some delicious Panang Curry and they were gone completely!

Ryan ordered some sizzling pork soup that arrived in a giant bowl and had equally big flavor. We also shared an order of Chicken Satay which was awesome--grilled perfectly and served with a savory peanut dipping sauce.

If you're ever in South Austin and feeling like it's time for some Thai, don't let the signage scare you... Madam Mam's is the place to go!

Happy Searching,

Pass the Pork, Please!

2010-06-05T18:00:00.000-07:00

By now, it's no secret that I am an all-American, red-meat lovin' lady. I really enjoy a good steak, especially when it's accompanied by a glass of Cabernet. However, between high cholesterol and expanding waistlines, something's gotta give (and hopefully it's not the chair). The solution? Pork Au Poivre.

A take on the classic (and highly caloric) Steak Au Poivre, Ellie Krieger's pork version is big on flavor without the added fat. The "Au Poivre" is what gives the dish its bold flavor but instead of encrusting a filet with pepper, Ellie uses pork tenderloin (I substituted thin-cut boneless pork chops which turned out fine). The traditional cognac cream sauce is replaced with an equally luxurious red wine reduction (don't be scared by the word "reduction"--you just pour wine in the pan and let it simmer...easy-peasy).

The pepper adheres to the pork with a light slathering of Dijon mustard, which you barely taste in the finished dish. It just adds a nice depth of flavor but isn't overpowering. Throw some veggies on the side, cook up some rice, and you've got a delicious meal that won't leave you with Chewer's Remorse.

Happy Searching!

p.s. Try it out with a nice red (you need some for the recipe anyway)! One of our favorites? Louis M. Martini Cabernet Sauvignon. A bottle is around $12, but tastes like it's worth a lot more. Cheers!

Cupcake Summer

2010-06-02T16:29:00.000-07:00

Today is the last day of school and after my first unofficial year as a teacher (a teacher without a class), I have learned a few things.

1. Kids are hilarious...I laugh at something crazy they've said everyday.
2. Teachers are just as excited for summer vacation as students.
And my favorite revelation?
3. Nice teachers get treats at the end of the year.

One of the second grade girls I worked with (and her family) surprised me with half a dozen Delish cupcakes that were so gorgeous I actually gasped when I saw them. They were stunningly beautiful--delicately dusted with this edible fairy-dust-glitter and dotted with dragées (those little candied silver beads).

Each lovely cupcake was different...I got to sample Ginger Carrot, Espresso Cream, and Banana Chocolate among Strawberry, Chocolate, and Vanilla (not all in one sitting, of course).

So, my final reflection of the year is this: I love my job. Despite the fact that teaching is incredibly hard work (and it is--seriously), I get to laugh everyday with 7-year-old cuties who...every now and then...bring me cupcakes. How lucky am I?!?

Happy Summer! And...

Happy Searching!

The Mother of All Weekends, Part 3

2010-05-28T17:58:00.000-07:00

After two full days of delicious adventures (documented here and here), Mama B and I tackled our third day like it was our first.

We started our day off with a Starbucks (Mama=Grande Cinnamon Dolce, Me=Double Tall Nonfat Latte) and then hit the road for some snacks and shopping.

One thing Mama B really wanted to try while she was in Austin was a kolache. Originating from Central Europe, kolaches are pastries with sweet or savory fillings. The pastry itself is similar to a Hawaiian sweet bread--super yummy. The fillings are usually fruit (blueberry, apple, etc) or some kind of sausage (like a homemade pig in the blanket).

We found a place on our way to the San Marcos Outlet Mall that had a good mix of both. Dos Gatos is a cute little place run by two brothers right off the Texas State campus. They served up blueberry cream cheese, sausage cheddar, and polish sausage sauerkraut kolaches that were fresh and scrumptious.

An afternoon of shopping had us famished and we were ready for some nourishment. Lockhart, TX is a stone's throw from the outlets and known to be the The Barbecue Capital of Texas. Four big BBQ giants reside in this town and share a rivalry similar to the Geno's vs. Pat's cheesesteak battle in Philly.

After much consideration, we decided on Smitty's. They believe their barbecue is so good you don't need sauce or silverware, so we followed suit and ate our brisket, pork chop, and ribs primitively. Overall very tasty, but the brisket did need a bit of sauce (which we discovered was available behind the counter--just ask sheepishly and they'll provide some). I'm definitely open to giving the other joints a shot, but Smitty's was pretty good.

The best barbecue chaser? A hot fudge malt from Sonic (times two!). The hot fudge adds a richness that plain ol' chocolate sauce doesn't offer. If you've never tried it in a malt or shake, give it a go--you won't be disappointed!

A delicious weekend! Looking forward to our next visit, Mama B. One question though: What are we going to eat? ;o)

Happy Searching,

The Mother of All Weekends, Part 2

2010-05-25T17:28:00.000-07:00

My previous post recounted the first day of our Mother's Day Weekend Smorgasbord. Here's Day 2 of our devourings:

Sunday morning, I woke Mama B up with some mixed berry scones with homemade orange honey butter, recipe courtesy of Tyler Florence. The scones were pretty good (especially warm) but the butter was the star. Who knew it was so easy to make your own butter?!? Throw some cream into a mixer and 5 minutes later, you've got the best butter you've ever tasted. So easy, so delish!

After our scones settled, we had brunch at the Eastside Cafe. The first time I ate there, I knew I would have to come back with my mom. The Cafe is actually a quaint little house, complete with a huge garden behind it where all of the produce is grown. Everything is fresh, local, and very tasty.

This Shrimp & Goat Cheese Quesadilla was a last minute addition to our order and probably the best dish at the Cafe--perfectly crispy on the outside, gooey and melted on the inside and gone in two minutes!

After our meal, we were ready for a stroll in the garden. Everything from lettuce to squash grew abundantly, providing a lovely setting.

Later that evening (after a nap, I believe), Ryan treated us to Pineapple Margaritas and Fish Tacos. The margs were perfectly frothy, fruity, and refreshing. Don't you want a gulp?

The tacos: spicy tilapia dressed with a cool sour cream sauce, then topped with crumbled queso fresco inside a warm flour tortilla. Soooo good!

Needless to say, we went to bed with extremely satisfied tastebuds...but not before planning our meals for the next day. Check back for kolaches and barbeque from Lockhart, the Texas Bar-B-Q Capital!

Happy Searching,

The Mother of All Weekends, Part 1

2010-05-23T11:56:00.000-07:00

I was so excited to have my mom in town for Mother's Day. As I began to plan the agenda for the weekend, the first question that had to be answered: What are we going to eat?

Luckily, my mom and I are of the same mind when it comes to food (I wonder how that happened...). We live to eat and plan our days accordingly. We are often discussing what we should do for lunch while we are eating breakfast. It's awesome.

So, I wanted our time together to be filled with yummy things and all in all, it was a delicious weekend.

We spent Saturday at the Lake Austin Spa and enjoyed some incredible food. We shared scallop ceviche, watermelon gazpacho, an avocado chicken panini, and some frozen yogurt...in our bathrobes! It was heavenly (and much too relaxing to be bothered with a camera, so there are no pictures...sorry).

What better to follow up a healthy day at the spa than with some barbeque? We were in Austin, after all, and I knew just the spot: County Line Bar-B-Q. Being the dainty spa girls that we are, we promptly ordered the Meat Sampler Platter and a pitcher of Shiner. Brisket, beef ribs, pork ribs, and smoked turkey? You betcha!

We sat out on the deck, listened to some great live music, and licked every last bit of the barbeque sauce off of our fingers (I threatened to get Mama B a straw to slurp the remaining side of sauce until I realized she would really do it). You can take the girl out of the country, but you can't take the country out of the girl!

Once our savory cravings were satisfied, it was time for a little something sweet. Luckily, I knew where to go for that, too. Central Market is an Austin grocery store with lots of specialty items but more importantly, a gelato bar. I introduced Mama to this gelato during her last visit and we both became hooked on the same flavor: The Donatella. Creamy and studded with crunchy chocolate-covered waffle bits, it's basically Nutella in gelato form. The chocolate hazelnut flavor is insanely good.

Stay tuned for Part 2...scones and quesadillas and margaritas, oh my!

In the meantime...

Happy Searching!

Burger Love

2010-05-13T18:17:00.000-07:00

I could never be a vegetarian. Sometimes I feel bad about eating meat because of where it comes from, but I ultimately surrender to my carnivorous ways. This usually occurs when one of two things are nearby: hamburgers or bacon.

Needless to say, I am always in search of a delicious burger. A few weeks ago in Ft. Worth, I found one at Love Shack.

The Shack is owned by Tim Love, a chef who competed in--and won--Iron Chef America. It's a casual but chic hotspot serving up yummy burgers and sides to go with it.

What I really like about Love Shack is all of the thoughtful details that go into every aspect of the restaurant. The burgers are juicy and served with a homemade special sauce (ala In-N-Out). The fries and potato chips are sliced on the premises and perfectly crispy. The atmosphere is playful, including a patio full of comfy outdoor couches and chalkboard walls in the powder room (you're actually encouraged to post some graffiti!)

In a world full of flimsy burgers and fast food, Love Shack is a classy burger joint that takes the time to serve it up right. The attention to detail has not gone unnoticed...we'll be stopping by for some Burger Love the next time we're in town!

Happy Searching,

p.s. They also have amazing milkshakes--I had a Vanilla Heath creation that was to die for.

Perfect Pad Thai

2010-05-09T18:10:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I take my husband's fabulous cooking for granted. With Ryan in the kitchen, the bar has been raised and I have become accustomed to gourmet meals on a nightly basis. It's a compliment, really...I know dinner will be delicious because he's such a great cook.

Then sometimes he makes a dish that really reminds me how lucky my taste buds are. Something over-the-top tasty.

This Pad Thai was perfection. Whole wheat linguine wok-tossed with shrimp, chicken, cilantro, bean sprouts, peanuts and spices...aMAZing. Another one of the key ingredients was fish sauce, which is found in the Asian Foods aisle (with a wretched smell but incredible taste....don't let it dissuade you). I really believe this stinky delight is what elevated the dish from good to gone-in-three-minutes.

I think I told Ryan how delicious it was between each and every bite. Maybe we can have it again tonight...

Happy Searching,

Tasty Tostadas

2010-05-05T19:37:00.000-07:00

In observance of Cinco de Mayo and all things delicioso, I have to share one of our new favorite recipes. It's a keeper for several reasons, but the best one? It's healthy Mexican food.

I know what you're saying: "¿Es verdad? Can it be?!" Yes, it's true!

It seems like an oxymoron, but these shrimp tostadas have all of the deliciousness of Mexican food without any of the greasy guilt. Nada. And they are sooooo good!

If I had to choose one word to describe this dish, it would be flavorful. Smoky cumin, ancho chili powder, lime juice, and cilantro mingled together to create a perfect balance. The roasted shrimp were spicy, the corn and red onion were cool and sweet, and the vinaigrette was tangy.

Even with a few amendments to the original recipe, I can't imagine this dish turning out any better. We didn't have any cabbage, so I omitted it altogether. For the tostada "shells", I substituted won ton skins. They were a bit more healthful than the the corn tortillas the recipe called for and still provided that crunchy texture.

I brushed ten of them lightly with olive oil, sprinkled them with S&P, and baked them in a muffin tin until golden brown (around 8 minutes). While they cooled, I prepped the shrimp and veggies, tossed them all together and assembled the tostada cups.

Muy deliciso! A great appetizer, dinner, or fiesta fare. Happy Cinco de Mayo! I hope you're enjoying a margarita (or a Modelo)...

¡Buscar Feliz!

Cookie Math

2010-05-02T09:27:00.000-07:00

As a reward for a group of fifth graders I tutored, I threw a little party when all of our sessions were finished. I tried to come up with a dessert that had something to do with math when I remembered my rarely-used collection of 100 cookie cutters. I dusted them off and decided to crunch some numbers!

I contemplated making my own sugar cookie dough, but when I thought about how my audience wouldn't care (or know the difference), I went with the pre-made. I did, however, make my own frosting. Well...Giada's frosting. And I have to say it was some of the best frosting I've ever eaten.

I figured this was the perfect opportunity to experiment with the neon food coloring I'd seen in the baking aisle and after trying it, I'm sold. I absolutely loved how vibrant the frosting turned out--lime green, bright turquoise, fuchsia, and tangerine. (Even with several attempts, I wasn't able to get a photo to capture their vibrancy...this was as close as it came).

So I baked the cookies until they were cooked through but still soft, then let them cool. I filled Ziploc bags with frosting, snipped the tips, and covered each cookie with some color. A sprinkle of sparkling sugar on top and--presto!--the dessert equation is solved.

Store-bought dough + homemade frosting = delicious! I love this kind of math...

Happy Searching!

Crawfish Tales

2010-04-29T21:26:00.000-07:00

Last weekend, thanks to our friends in Ft. Worth, I experienced my first crawfish boil. I had heard enough to know what to expect (lots of work for little reward) but was excited nonetheless.

When they're ready, the crawfish are tossed out directly onto a covered table along with corn, whole red potatoes, sausage, and mushrooms (which I learned are prized possessions that disappear quickly as they soak up all the yummy juices).

Despite the effort required to break into those little crawfish tails, I really enjoyed them. Compared to other shellfish, they taste fairly light. Not as rich and buttery as shrimp or lobster...to me, they seem like the trout of the shellfish world. A perfect canvas for some cajun spices!

As a crawfish virgin, I was subject to some teasing. A couple of clever pranksters standing next to us overheard my exaggerated enthusiasm and decided to take advantage of my naivete. They nonchalantly nudged a "mutated" crawfish my way, and within a few minutes, they had me...hook, line, and sinker!

"Is that a crab? Oh my gosh! No--wait--it's a two-headed crawfish! Holy smokes! A TWO-HEADED CRAWFISH!!!"

Thanks to my posse for bailing me out...I may have been claiming I'd seen the Sasquatch before too long...it just looked so real!

In spite of the shellfish shenanigans, I'd say my first crawfish tale was a delicious success.

Happy Searching,

The Med=Tapas Heaven

2010-04-26T20:15:00.000-07:00

About eight years ago, I stumbled upon food heaven. Not surprisingly, I don't remember the exact details. I couldn't tell you how or when I first discovered it. I couldn't tell you what I ordered. All I know is that once I found it, it was love at first bite!

The Med is a restaurant in Boulder, CO and although I attended college a few miles from it, I didn't discover this gem until the middle of my senior year. They serve--cleverly enough--Mediterranean cuisine. Grilled meats, pastas, and risottos are staples of the menu. But the real stars of the show are the tapas.

I love the concept of tapas. For an indecisive foodie such as myself, these little plates are perfect for sampling a variety of ingredients and flavors. Not only does The Med serve tapas, they serve delicious and cheap tapas during their daily happy hour...appropriately named, because some of the happiest hours have been spent with my family and friends at The Med.

Bacon Wrapped Dates in Garlic Sauce

Smoked Ruby Trout, Grilled Lamb & Chicken Skewers

Frequenting this food extravaganza has become a ritual nearly every time I'm back in Colorado. We've pretty much gotten it down to a science...what can't be missed, what we can skip, how many rounds we should order and the timing of when to place them.

Baked Feta & Panzanella Relish

Steamed Mussels, Caprese Salad,

Beef Carpaccio, Fried Polenta with Rosemary Honey

We rarely skip the wood-fired margherita pizza or the grilled meat skewers, but we have try something new almost every visit. This time we hit the jackpot with some amazing lamb chops and baked feta.

Margherita Pizza

Jalepeno Honey-Glazed Lamb Chops

We have each tried something a bit exotic for our usual palates...my mom and I tried frog legs, Ryan sampled beets, and my dad enjoyed beef carpaccio.

In our countless visits, we've never actually ordered off of the regular menu. Judging by the tapas, I'm sure dinner is incredible. But we've got too good a thing goin' in Tapas Heaven. Next time I'm in Colorado, you'll know where to find me!

Happy Searching,

Sea Bass Skewers & Six Years

2010-04-21T16:08:00.000-07:00

This weekend marked six blissful years of marriage for the mister and me. We celebrated the best way we know how: by indulging in delicious food and drink!

After a champagne toast and a swoon over some gorgeous blooms, we headed downtown for some anniversary nibbles.

Imperia is one of the places in Austin we've discovered for just such an occasion. Nestled among several other upscale hotspots in the Warehouse District, it's one of the few reasons we make the trip downtown (you know...parking, crowds, 10 minutes of driving...do I sound old?).

Imperia offers amazing martinis, tasty small bites, and swanky ambience...all for $5 an item everyday from 5:30-7:00. Everyday.

The Jade & The Imperial Pearl

Despite the 2-for-1 rolls and the gulp-able martinis, there's only one reason why we have to go to Imperia...

The Sea Bass Skewers. They are consistently delicious. The fish (which isn't fishy at all) is rich and buttery and slightly sweet from the candied soy glaze. The texture of the sea bass and the swirl of salty-sweet sauce beneath it had my taste buds somersaulting with delight!

A wonderful way to celebrate six years of love, laughter, and delightful dishes. Happy Anni, babes!

And to everyone else...

Happy Searching,

Berry Delicious

2010-04-18T13:05:00.000-07:00

I would say that I have more of a savory tooth than a sweet tooth. If I had to choose between fries or a shake, the salty fries would prevail. But, I do love dessert when it is fresh, simple, and a little bit decadent. Enter Giada's Berries with Mascarpone.

I knew I was meant to make (and eat) this dish when I realized we had all but one of the ingredients on hand (we didn't have meringue cookies to crumble on top, but I'm not a huge fan of meringue anyway, so no biggie).

Don't let the humble appearance fool you. The simple, harmonious balance of fresh fruit and luxurious cream makes this a dessert to behold. Perfectly ripe berries + cinnamon-kissed cream = a luscious delight.

Next time you're in the mood for something berry delicious, give this a try...I don't think you'll be disappointed!

Happy Searching,

p.s. The recipe calls for whipping the cream and then folding it into the mascarpone. I was too impatient for this step and just whipped it all together with a whisk. Still yummy!

Starbucks, You're Still the One

2010-04-13T08:58:00.000-07:00

We live in a city that prides itself on supporting local businesses. Bumper stickers, t-shirts, and billboards everywhere display "Keep Austin Weird" as a reminder to choose the unique, independent shops over the cookie-cutter corporate giants to maintain Austin's eclectic feel. As much I as love and support several of Austin's own entrepreneurs, I can't deny my allegiance to a certain java giant...Starbucks.

I am a shameless lover of Starbucks. When we went to Seattle to visit Mama & Papa C, they asked us if there were any sites we didn't want to miss. My must-see? The First Starbucks in Pike's Market.

Although I don't go everyday (because we would go broke), I support the Starbucks Corporation at least once a week (and usually have gift cards to support my habit...thanks, Mom). I've tasted most of the coffee items on the menu and like to try the newest creations (Dark Cherry Mocha is good but a bit sweet). I adore their breakfast sandwiches (my favorite is the Reduced-Fat Turkey Bacon) and their pastries (the Morning Bun is heavenly).

My standard, though, is simple: a double tall non-fat latte (with half of a Splenda swirled in). It's basic--a regular latte with an extra shot of espresso. After I took my first sip of this Saturday's morning indulgence, I thought to myself, This is delicious...

What's your signature Starbucks (or other coffee shop) drink?

Happy Searching,

p.s. My friend Corinne shared some great news...free *$ on April 15th! Check out her blog for details!

Pizza Perfection

2010-04-11T09:31:00.000-07:00

Anyone who knows me is aware of my love for pizza. It probably started when I was little and my dad would pick up a Filippi's pizza on his way home from a late night's work. He and my mom would wake my sister and I up for an impromptu pizza party, the four of us giggling over a pizza picnic using their bed as a table. I think it's been my favorite food ever since.

Last night, we made pizza a casa (at home) and it turned out to be pretty delicious. We used some store-bought flatbread instead of making our own dough (which for the amount of time saved is well worth the purchase, although I'm sure homemade dough is delish). We picked up this whole grain naan flatbread that we found in the deli section. The whole grain was more for nutritional value than flavor, but it was still pretty good:

We were inspired by two pizzas: the Parma from Mandola's Market and Tyler Florence's Bacon, Rosemary, Potato Pizza. We made a few adjustments, but both of our versions were spot-on scrumptious. Mandola's was a layer of fresh mozzarella and prosciutto, topped with arugula tossed in a lemon vinaigrette and shaved parmesan cheese. Tyler's had a mixture of crumbled bacon, rosemary, onion, and thinly-sliced potatoes baked under melty cheese.

Mmmm...I wish we had some leftover!

Happy Searching,

Sparkling Sips

2010-04-07T12:47:00.000-07:00

When asked, "What's your favorite sound in the world?", thousands of possible responses begin popping up in my head. Birds chirping in the morning....ocean waves rhythmically lapping onto the beach...a summer breeze gently blowing through the trees. All very wonderful sounds, but the most lovely? I'd have to say it's the pop of a champagne cork.

Why? Because it means a celebration is near. Sparkling bubbles happily drift to the top of the glass, ready to toast a marriage, a promotion, or a Thursday night (why not?). Whenever you hear the sound of a champagne cork popping, good times are about to ensue.

One of my favorite ways to imbibe this effervescent delight is in a Kir Royal (the "r" is silent...it's pronounced "key roy-al"). It's simply champagne with a splash of cassis (black currant liqueur), sort of like a fancy mimosa.

Maybe it's the bubbles or maybe it's the name, but sipping one of these does make you feel a bit like a princess. A deliciously giddy princess (depending on how many you have, of course). I highly recommend raising a glass, especially if you've never tried one. Cheers!

Happy Searching,

p.s. If you make one of these at home, I recommend a dry champagne or sparkling wine since the liqueur is rather sweet.

Just for the Halibut

2010-04-05T20:05:00.000-07:00

For as much as I love carbs (pasta, rice, repeat), my husband loves fish even more. He would eat fish for breakfast, lunch, and dinner if he could. Needless to say, we throw fish into the mix a few times a week if we can. Recently, Ryan found some gorgeous, fresh halibut fillets and a few other fun ingredients to come up with a lovely seafood dinner.

How beautiful is that?!? Here's the rundown...

Ryan rubbed the fillets with olive oil, salt & pepper, then pan-seared them and threw them in the oven to finish cooking. He topped them with a tart and spicy blood-orange salsa. The side dish? Tomatoes stuffed with a mix of crumbled sausage, creamy ricotta, and brown rice...then topped with provolone cheese and baked until gooey.

Am I a lucky girl or what?!? So yummy!

Happy Searching,

Dessert Envy

2010-03-30T22:11:00.000-07:00

In my opinion if we lived in a perfect world, we would all get dessert with every meal. Without worrying about calories. Or fat. Or cholesterol. Unfortunately, my world is imperfect and does not include a daily dessert. If it did, however, Andi's Banana's Foster would be on the menu regularly.

The thought of my friend in her kitchen with a saucepan aflame made me laugh out loud, so I was slightly disappointed to learn that she chose the safe route and skipped the pyrotechnics. After seeing her dessert, though, I don't think she needed any special effects.

She took sliced bananas and sauteed them in butter, brown sugar, and a smidge of rum (...am I forgetting anything, Andi?). After letting the slices carmelize, she swirled them in a deep toffee brown sauce before spooning them over vanilla ice cream. I mean, does anything sound--or look--better?!?

Honestly, at least two times while writing this post I have looked longingly at our fruit basket for spotted bananas...you know, the ones that usually occupy it and overstay their welcome? How is it that the one time I want to use them, they're not there?

All I know is that if I had some bananas in the house, I'd be making this right now. Delish!

Happy Searching!

Chicken, Veggies & Rice: The Old Standby

2010-03-25T10:40:00.000-07:00

Contrary to what previous posts may lead you to believe, we don't have fancy dinners every single night. We both enjoy being in the kitchen (though Ryan has been sporting the chef hat most of the time lately), creating new dishes and checking out interesting recipes. But sometimes we need to just throw something together.

One of our go-to meals is roasted chicken with veggies and steamed rice. It might sound a bit boring, but even our old standby is delicious. Here's what we do:

Chicken: Throw two (or however many) skin-on, bone-in breasts onto a sheet pan (you can use boneless skinless if you really want, but the bone keeps the meat juicy and the skin...oh, the skin is problematic delicious...when it comes out of the oven crispy and golden, calling for a nibble. Mmmm...I digress). Rub with olive oil (a tablespoon or so), squeeze half a lemon over them, and sprinkle liberally with salt and pepper (really, liberally is the key here--it's amazing what an aggressive toss of S&P will do for plain old chicken). Roast at 400 for about 20 minutes (or until the skin is crispy...mmmmm).

Veggies: After checking our fridge inventory and pulling out whatever hasn't started growing things, the veggies get similar treatment to the chicken. We usually have carrots, some sort of squash, onions, and maybe some cherry tomatoes or asparagus. We cut them up into big, rustic pieces (except for the tomatoes) and then toss them with olive oil. Add some salt and pepper, lemon juice (from the other half of the lemon) and maybe some crushed garlic. Roast at 400 for about 10-15 minutes (this really depends on how "well done" you like your vegetables...I prefer mine to still have some crunch; Ryan prefers them to be a bit more cooked...up to you). Finish with some grated parmesan if you have some.

Rice: If the other two-thirds of this meal weren't so yummy, I could eat the rice all by itself. I love it. One of our favorites is this Brown Rice Medley from Trader Joe's (which they don't have in Texas so we get it "imported" from our California hook-ups). If we run out of the good stuff, we use some sort of brown rice (not instant, although I'm sure you could if you wanted to save time).

What really makes the rice, though, is one of our kitchen staples: McCormick's Chicken Base. It's like a boullion paste that you just add to water and--voila!--dull rice to delish! You can get it at CostCo for cheap and we use it all the time.

So there you have it! The Old Standby...pretty quick, quite satisfying, and one of our favorites.

Happy Searching!

Reconstructed Cobb Salad

2010-03-21T22:19:00.000-07:00

Another salad? Oh yes, but it's not just another salad....

This salad is all about quality over quantity--there aren't many ingredients, but the few that are there are so good. Any recipe that has bacon or avocado in it is usually in my husband's repertoire. If it has both? He's in hog heaven (pardon the pun)!

The other day, we watched Tyler Florence make this Avocado Salad and within 8 hours, we were sitting down to it at our dinner table. Ryan made a few adjustments to the recipe (he always likes to add his own spin) and knocked it out of the park! He swapped lemon juice for blood-orange juice (since we had one on hand from another recipe), crumbled some gorgonzola on top (cobb-riffic), and added some sliced grape tomatoes.

I could've easily eaten the whole plate myself...with the bacon and the avo? It was doubly delicious!

Happy Searching!

Stylish Salad

2010-03-19T23:07:00.000-07:00

When I think of Nordstrom, I think of style, shoes, and salads. After barely setting foot into the store, I am surrounded by luxurious treasures and immediately feel en vogue. The gorgeous handbags, colorful scarves, and sparkly jewelry attempt to distract me, but I am a shoe girl through and through (if you don't believe me, ask my husband...he's allotted 1/16 of our closet space, poor thing). My inner shopping magnet draws me towards the shoe section and I spend nearly an hour oohing and ahhing over heels, flats, distressed leather, patent leather, and satin.

Once I've made a few laps, I'm ready to enjoy my other favorite Nordstrom department: the Cafe. The food at Nordstrom is like their merchandise: beautifully presented and of the highest quality. Everything I've eaten there has been yummy, but their salads are especially delicious.

The last time my mom and I went, we shared the most amazing spinach salad with a Dark Cherry Balsamic Vinaigrette. She bought me the salad dressing so I could recreate it at home, and although we rarely buy salad dressings because they're so easy to make, this one was definitely worth purchasing (you can buy it at the Cafe).

The Nordstrom Cafe Spinach Salad had bacon, candied pecans, red onions, goat cheese, and dried cherries; in our re-creation, we left out the bacon and used toasted pecans instead of candied (it was a weeknight, so we were being good).

It's really amazing what a few quality ingredients (and the right combination of them) will do for a would-be-ordinary salad. The tangy creaminess of the goat cheese, the tart chewiness of the cherries, and the nutty crunch of the pecans created a harmonious balance of flavors and textures. My taste buds were singing!

If every salad was this good, I'd consider becoming a vegetarian (who eats bacon, or course). Even the "knock-off" version of this salad was stylish and scrumptious!

So, I want to know...what salad do you adore? Caesar? Pear and gorgonzola? Share your delicious ideas! As always...

Happy Searching,

St. Patty's Chocolate Chip Cookies

2010-03-17T22:14:00.000-07:00

On a whim, I decided to whip up some green chocolate chip cookies in honor of St. Patrick's Day. I discovered the recipe on Kara's Kitchen Creations and became inspired.

Ryan was slightly apprehensive at first, since we were having company over and he's been witness to my previous baking extravaganzas (flour everywhere, just like the movies). He came around, though, when he took his first bite of these green delights. They turned out so incredibly gooey and yummy that I didn't even have time to take a picture before they were all gone...this one's from Kara's site.

The recipe calls for pudding mix, which I've never seen before in a chocolate chip cookie recipe but think was the secret to its heavenly texture. That and the added white chocolate chips made the cookies, as Ryan said, "Otis Spunkmyer-like". What a compliment!

I know it's too late to use this year, but I highly recommend printing the recipe and saving it for next year--or making it anytime without the green food coloring!

Happy Searching,

p.s. I used chocolate instant pudding instead of pistachio since that's what I had on hand. Also, mine turned out very dark green (probably because of the chocolate pudding). Still delish either way!

Greasy Grub: So Wrong Yet So Right

2010-03-15T19:40:00.000-07:00

Ahhhh, weekends. I'm only slightly ashamed to admit that if it were possible to be complete gluttons all the time without any adverse side effects (obesity, skyrocketing cholesterol, clogged arteries, etc), Ryan and I would be on board. But alas, we have agreed to keep our appetites in check at least five days out of the week...so that we can reward ourselves with some indulgent eating over the weekend.

On Sunday, we were happy to discover a place that satisfied our craving for good ol' greasy grub. Situated just off of the UT campus, Dirty Martin's is an unassuming spot with a patio, picnic tables, and pints. What could be better on a sunny spring day?

We started out with a $6 pitcher of locally brewed Austin Amber...that's $6 including tax! You can barely get away with a pint for that price these days! Served with two icy glasses, Ryan and I knew we were off to a good start.

As we deliberated over which fried appetizer to order, our eyes locked in on Chili Queso Fries. Ho. Lee. Smokes. They were a trifecta of savory perfection. Crispy, salty fries smothered in homemade three-cheese queso and homemade chili. Insanely good!

What comes after a gut-bomb like that? Burgers, of course. Out come two baskets lined with grease-soaked paper...and the best cheeseburgers we've had in Austin. Seriously. The buns were buttery, lightly toasted, and just dense enough to support the juicy goodness of the patties. The cheese was evenly melted and nestled underneath just the right amount of lettuce, pickles, and onions. Each bite was even better than the one before it. Delicious!

Local publications have given this place decent reviews, but I think they deserve some serious accolades. From start to finish, Dirty Martin's not only met but exceeded our expectations (which I consider to be fairly high). You know the grease is good when you're wishing you could have a second round of it later that same day (true story, it's a good thing we don't live closer...).

If Dirty Martin's is wrong, I don't want to be right. The beer is cheap and cold, the fries are smothered and scrumptious, and the burgers are bodacious. Two delicious, chili-covered thumbs up!

Happy Searching,

Austin Restaurant Week

2010-03-13T11:03:00.000-08:00

One of the greatest events in Austin (and there are many to speak of) is Austin Restaurant Week. For $25 or $35 per person, you can get a three-course, gourmet meal that would normally cost upwards of $50. A portion of the proceeds goes to charity, a portion of delicious food goes to your belly...what more could a compassionate foodie ask for?

Something a bit more delicious.

Unfortunately, I was a little disappointed with my meal from Kona Grill. As much as I wanted it to be delicious, it fell short. (To be fair, Ryan enjoyed his meal quite a bit more than I enjoyed mine, but we both left feeling somewhat unsatisfied).

Ryan ordered the ATX roll, the Sushi Sashimi, and the Mochi dessert (along with a 'Bama Roll chaser). I ordered Potstickers, Lemongrass Crusted Halibut and for dessert, the Fudge Brownie.

Ryan's Sushi Plate

The 'Bama Roll

My Lemongrass Crusted Halibut

Triple Fudge Brownie

I know what you're thinking...what's wrong with these? Kona's menu for Restaurant Week did offer a decent variety of items and although none of them were bad, none of them were show-stopping, either.

So, what was the problem? Well...

My potstickers, which happen to be a favorite treat of mine, were on the chewy side. They definitely appeared to be homemade (I admire the effort), but the dough was difficult to cut through with a fork.
My halibut was seasoned well and the sauce was excellent (anything coconut curry is alright in my book) but it was overcooked...enough that it was a bit dry, and even the yummy sauce couldn't save it.
The brownie was fudgy...and rich...but somehow it was also a bit bland. How can that be? A chocolate brownie, topped with ice cream and drizzled with caramel and more chocolate? Sounds heavenly and believe me, I wanted to like it. It just seemed to be missing something. Sort of like those low-fat desserts (which I'm sure wasn't the case here) that sound good in theory but leave you wanting more.

On a scale of one to ten, Ryan and I gave Kona an overall seven-and-a-half. Not bad, but when you're always in search of delicious, you can't settle. So the search continues...

Looking forward to the next Restaurant Week!

Happy Searching,

Tortilla Soup Day

2010-03-11T17:04:00.000-08:00

School cafeterias are not typically synonymous with gourmet cooking. Luckily at our school there happen to be a few dishes that, when served, spark smiles amongst the faculty. Remember being a kid and getting so excited when Corn Dog Day rolled around?!? (It was the corn dogs for me, anyway...) Well, the teachers at my school really look forward to Tortilla Soup Day. In fact, the Cafeteria Monitor always puts a sign on the Teacher's Lounge Door that says, "Tortilla Soup today!" with a big smiley face. It's the little things, right?

After having a small cup of it the other day, I was left wanting more. So, I decided to recreate it at home, with a few adjustments here and there. I have made several versions of this soup (and eaten even more). This one is fairly light, tasty, and very easy.

I loosely followed Ina Garten's recipe for Mexican Chicken Soup. What I love about the soup at school is the tomatoey broth (which Ina's recipe has), chunks of zucchini that soften when they cook (which I added) and crumbled queso fresco (that I substituted for cheddar). What's so great about this soup is that you can easily customize it--add things you love, omit things you don't. Personally, I highly recommend the queso fresco, which is similar to a Mexican feta cheese and usually nestled in the cheese section at most grocery stores. I also made strips out of some blue corn tortillas we happened to have on hand and fried them up for a crispy (and delicious) garnish.

I think the teachers would give it an A...I must say, it was muy delicioso!

Happy Searching,

S'more Brownies, Please!

2010-03-01T20:39:00.000-08:00

For me, the nostalgia of making s'mores definitely plays into their appeal. I love the way the melty chocolate, crunchy graham cracker, and burnt marshmallow intertwine to make one exquisite creation. But I also love the way one bite of the s'more trinity transports me back to my barefoot, 10-year-old-self, roasting marshmallows (or lighting them into flames) over a campfire at the beach.

When one of my BFFs (actually, my VBFF: Very Best Friend Forever, as we dubbed each other in second grade) told me she was making s'more brownies for her fiance, I said, "Oooh, take pictures! That sounds like something delicious!"

Look how gorgeous they turned out! (And big kudos to Mike for the fancy plate drizzle, by the way!) I love how the marshmallows transformed into perfectly toasted pillows atop their chocolatey bed. (Unfortunately, my marshmallows never turned out that well over the campfire...sticking them directly into the fire and peeling off the blackened crust to shove in my mouth was more entertaining.)

Since Andi's in San Diego and I'm in Austin, I didn't get to try them, but they are rumored to be very yummy! I will be looking for any excuse to make them now that I have the recipe. She found it here and made a few adjustments:
"I used less chocolate. After grabbing all the big Hershey bars that would equal 12oz...it seemed like just too much for me! And I used a regular brownie mix which is a little less than the required."

If you think you've found something delicious, take a picture and tell me about it! I'd love to share your discoveries, too.

Happy Searching!

Garlic Bread & Tiramisu: Spaghetti Sidekicks

2010-02-28T08:42:00.000-08:00

How can you make a perfect meal even more delicious? By sandwiching it between cheesy, buttery garlic bread and incredibly rich tiramisu.

During my visit home last weekend, I attended Spaghetti School (courtesy of Mama B). I should've known that Mama had a few other tricks up her sleeve...after all, she always does! She had all of the ingredients for my favorite Garlic Bread. We followed the recipe then added our own flair by sticking the open-faced halves of bread under the broiler after topping them with parmesan cheese.

She also had a recipe for Whipped-Up Chocolate Ricotta Tiramisu (we used Kahlua instead of cognac, but otherwise followed the recipe as is). She mixed the creamy ingredients while I prepared the ladyfingers and layered them into pretty glasses.

Out of all the tiramisus I've ever eaten (all of them from restaurants, mind you, none of them homemade), this was the best one. Homemade, easy, and so scrumptious! Petite chocolate morsels suspended in fluffy clouds of mascarpone and ricotta, resting upon coffee-soaked sponginess...heavenly!

It's not very often that the sidekicks are as popular as the hero, but these dishes are delicious enough to save the day on their own. The next time you're in the mood for Italian, give them a try!

Happy Searching!

The Best Spaghetti

2010-02-25T19:54:00.000-08:00

Everyone has a favorite dish that their mom makes. Since my mom is an amazing cook, it is extremely difficult to pick just one. But if I really had to choose...if I really had to pick just one meal as my all-time favorite, it would have to be my mom's spaghetti and meatballs. It was the meal I ate on my first birthday and I think it's been my favorite ever since. I know I'm a bit biased, but it truly is the most delicious spaghetti I've ever eaten.

Last weekend, I spent a snowy Saturday with my mom in the kitchen while she made her famous sauce (it's actually a ragu because it's meat-based...one of the many things I learned while attending Spaghetti School). I took copious notes down to the finest details, closely observing exactly how she rolled the meatballs and how she grated the garlic. It's one of those recipes Mama B has been making for decades so she doesn't need a recipe--the recipe is in her head. Watching my mom in her element was fantastic. It felt a bit like watching DaVinci paint the Sistine Chapel (or so I can imagine).

What I learned is that the recipe isn't an exact science, but it is a labor of love. I'm not sure I'll be able to create it as well as she does, but I am definitely going to try. One thing I can create is the perfect bite. A harmonious balance between meatball, noodles, sauce, and cheese...mmmmm.

So now--drumroll, please--I present the world premiere of Mama B's Italian Ragu recipe. I highly recommend you try it--you'll find yourself eating some pasta delizioso! Buon appetito!

Mama B's Italian Ragu
Pour approximately 3 TB of olive oil in the bottom of a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
Add 1 chopped onion, 4 cloves of chopped or grated garlic, 1 TB of salt and 1/2 TB of pepper. Saute until translucent.
In a separate pan, brown 1 pound of Italian sausage. Drain and cool on a paper towel and set aside.
Add one 12 oz can of Contadina tomato paste. Cook on low for 3-5 minutes, stirring often to avoid burning.
Add 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley, 1 tsp of dried basil, 1 tsp of dried oregano, and 1 TB of sugar. Cook for 5 minutes, then add 1/2 tsp of salt and 1/4 tsp of pepper, 1/4 cup of freshly grated parmesan or Pecorino Romano. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring often to avoid burning.
Add 3 cans of warm water (using the tomato paste can), stirring between each can to combine. (Mama says, "Don't worry if it's thin--it will thicken!").
Add crumbled sausage and 8 oz sliced mushrooms.
Bring to a boil and then lower heat. Simmer uncovered for approximately 2 hours, depending on the consistency you prefer.
Add meatballs and 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese 10 minutes before ready to serve. Meatballs will finish cooking but won't absorb too much sauce.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Enjoy with your preferred noodle (I am a classic spaghetti girl myself, but it's excellent with penne or rigatoni, too).

Mama B's Meat-a-balls
Soak 2-3 slices of white bread in milk, cream, or half-and-half (just enough to cover the bread).
In a large bowl, mix 2 beaten eggs, 1/2 tsp of dried basil, 1/2 tsp of dried oregano, 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley, 1 large chopped or grated garlic clove, 1/2 cup of shredded parmesan cheese, 1/8 cup grated Pecorino Romano and 1/4 tsp of onion powder.
Add 1 pound of ground beef and 1 pound of ground pork, gently mixing to combine (Overmixing will cause the meatballs to become tough).
Roll into balls, slightly bigger than a golf ball. Bake @ 350 degrees for approximately 20 minutes. Meatballs should start to become oozey with cheese, but shouldn't be cooked all the way through--they will finish cooking in the sauce.

*Note: Many recipes call for frying meatballs. I've had these meatballs both ways, and baking them in the oven is much better. Roasting enhances the flavor of the meatballs and keeps them extremely moist. (And they are awesome in a sandwich the next day).

Happy Searching!

Oy-stuhs...Little Oy-stuhs!

2010-02-21T00:06:00.000-08:00

During our Valentine's stroll on South Congress, we revisited a restaurant that we discovered a few months ago. Perla's, a new addition to the row of restaurants on Austin's most happenin' avenue, left us a bit disappointed the first time around. The service was just plain lousy but the food was so incredibly delicious that we decided to give Perla's a second chance. (Ryan still talks about their Soft Shell Crab BLT. Read all about our first trip here.) Round Two proved to be similar to Round One: food=delicious, service=non-existent.

So, onto the food! We ordered two schooners of beer and a half dozen Fanny Bay oysters on the half shell (which are from British Columbia and have a reputation for being consistently scrumptious...they were).
Chasing a briny, plump, succulent oyster with an icy-cold beer is one of my all-time most delicious scenarios. The oysters were fantastic, but didn't last long.

It took us 15 minutes to get them...

...and this was literally about 2 minutes later.

I felt a bit like the Carpenter...you know, from the old Disney cartoon version of Alice in Wonderland with the story of The Walrus and The Carpenter? The Carpenter spends all of his time preparing for the big oyster feast while the Walrus slurps down one oyster after another and before you know it, the Carpenter is calling out, "Oy-stuhs? Little Oy-stuhs?"

But they'd been eaten...every one!

Ahhh, there are never enough oysters. Or attentive servers. But maybe the third time's the charm...the oysters are so good, we may have to give Perla's another chance. Maybe.

Happy Searching,

Divine Valentine

2010-02-16T21:06:00.000-08:00

How glorious was it that Valentine's Day fell on a weekend this year?!? (A long weekend if you had Monday off...bonus!)

We didn't even make huge plans...just spent the three-day weekend enjoying each other's company and some delicious nibbles. Our weekend started Friday night with a concert downtown (The English Beat, a resurfaced 80's band, set the tone for a fun and relaxing weekend with their reggae-punk tunes). Saturday afternoon was filled with leisurely grocery shopping (one of our favorite pastimes), filling our cart with Valentine indulgences like lobster tails and champagne. We ate breakfast in bed Sunday morning and spent some time on South Congress that afternoon. All in all, a lovely weekend...hope yours was deliciously lovely, too!

Pear & Gorgonzola Salad with

Toasted Walnuts and Champagne Vinaigrette

Lemon Pepper Pappardelle with

Lobster & Peas in a White Wine Cream Sauce

Blake Benedict

(the Blake comes with bacon and heart-shaped toast)

Pomegranate Champagne Cocktails

If you are interested in making some delicious yourself, the tried-and-true recipes are coming soon! Meanwhile...

Happy Searching,

Where there's smoke...

2010-02-12T09:14:00.000-08:00

...there's steak. At least when I'm cooking, anyway. I feel like I've acquired a fairly substantial repertoire in the kitchen, but a good steak--which I love to eat--is not included.

Over the weekend, my parents joined Ryan and I for some food and fun. We picked up some gorgeous ribeyes from Costco (which I highly recommend if you haven't tried them before) for an upscale dinner at home. Since we don't have a grill, we are limited to the stove and oven, which didn't concern me since Ryan has made several delicious pan-seared, finished in the oven steaks. Ryan. Not me.

I rubbed the steaks with oil, sprinkled them with S&P for a good crust, and dropped them into a screaming hot pan. Plumes of smoke immediately began to fill our entire apartment and within one minute, I had set off the fire alarm and sent my family into full panic mode (except for my dad, who was committed to beating his high score on Wii Archery). My mom was frantically fanning a blanket to disperse the smoke, Ryan was opening all of the doors and windows, and my dad attempted to disable the smoke-alarm completely.

(Very close reinactment)

Amazingly, we were able to salvage the steaks (which hadn't really burned, just gave us a good scare). I topped them with some sautéed mushrooms and a red wine reduction...not bad for what could've been a major kitchen disaster. Slightly disastrous, pretty delicious.

Happy Searching,

Superbowl Smorgasbord?

2010-02-10T15:51:00.000-08:00

The Super Bowl is a delicious occasion. It's the Thanksgiving of sporting events, usually leaving me stuffed and ready for a nap by halftime. I managed to only doze off for part of the second quarter, but not before partaking in several scrumptious snacks.

Unfortunately, the feeding frenzy was quick and I neglected to take pictures, but the spread included: white queso with green chilis, assorted olives, sliced meats and cheeses, dips (7-Layer, Pimiento Cheese, Garlic Love), homemade French fries, tortilla roll-ups...I'm getting full just thinking about all I ate that day.

Sooo...I'm wondering what you ate. What yummy snacks were on your coffee table/dinner table/countertop on Sunday? Hopefully, you found some delicious...

Happy Searching,

Maybe I'm part Cuban...

2010-02-05T12:17:00.000-08:00

No, I haven't started smoking cigars. In celebration of the "Lost" premiere this week, we decided to have some island food. It was an island medley, drawing on influences from all over. Our menu included...

Limeade mojitos...

plantain fritters drizzled with spicy mango sauce...

and the reason I think I might be Cuban...this panini. Ryan roasted pork tenderloin that he had seasoned with coriander, garlic, salt and pepper. The assembly of the Cuban was my contribution: thin sliced pork, two kinds of ham (serrano and smoked), swiss cheese, a homemade relish of sweet hot peppers and dill pickles...pressed between mustard slathered ciabatta bread. Crispy bread, gooey cheese, salty, sweet, and spicy...how delicious is that? Try it--and you may find your inner Cuban, too.

Happy Searching,

Eatin' Chicken Soup With Rice

2010-02-03T18:06:00.000-08:00

Over the holidays, my friend Andi (who I've known since 2nd grade) surprised me with a walk down memory lane. She made a copy of an album I used to listen to over and over again and as soon as I heard it, I was instantly transported back to my childhood. The album was "Really Rosie", written by Maurice Sendak and put to music by Carole King. As soon as "Chicken Soup With Rice" flowed through the speakers, my heart became flooded with warmth and happiness. Of all the songs on the album, it was probably my favorite and--just like the soup itself--made me feel cozy and childlike all over again.

A few nights ago, my husband Ryan (who I've known since before 2nd grade) surprised me with a heartwarming pot of chicken soup with rice. Now, I've had more noodles than rice with my chicken soup (and have been okay with it...I am Italian, after all). This batch made rice a winner. Roasted chicken, brown rice, carrots, onions and asparagus floated in a slightly creamy broth with a hint of saffron. Mmmmm. Like the song, this soup was cozy, heartwarming, and wonderfully delicious.

Happy Searching,

p.s. I surprised Ryan with the song while we ate...have a spoonful of Chicken Soup With Rice yourself by clicking here.

Bruschetta Reinvented

2010-02-01T19:42:00.000-08:00

Bruschetta has definitely had its heyday...as much as I love the combination of tomatoes and basil on crispy garlic toast, I felt like the once-popular Italian appetizer's 15 minutes of fame had come and gone.

This bruschetta, however, changed my mind. If this delectable creation was on a menu, I'd order it in a heartbeat! Using one of my favorite sandwiches as inspiration, Ryan made BLT Bruschetta a few weeks ago that I now crave.

The foundation of this masterpiece was undoubtedly the homemade blue cheese dressing upon which the other ingredients rested. Perfectly toasted crostini, crispy bacon, tomatoes, arugula and chives? Yes, please!

Bruschetta is back in business...and delicious!

Happy Searching,

Fryday, Continued

2010-01-10T18:13:00.000-08:00

As the Festival of Fried Deliciousness continues, so does my love for my husband. Anyone who can make a meal around french fries is a fan of mine!

After breaking in the fryer with some calamari yesterday, he made fries tossed in garlic and parsley for today's treat. With mussels. Steamed in a white wine-saffron-tomato broth. Topped with bacon. Does it get any better than that?!?!

Found some delicious in this one, for sure...

Happy Searching,

My Favorite Day of the Week

2010-01-10T17:54:00.000-08:00

My favorite day of the week varies. Most of the time, it's Saturday--right smack dab in the middle of the weekend. Today, my favorite day is Fryday. My husband, Ryan, broke out his new Christmas present--a fryer--and whipped up some amazing food over the past few days.

After getting the prep out of the way, using the fryer was pretty easy. Ryan made some fabulous clam chowder (recipe courtesy Ina Garten) to go along with a few pounds (yep, there are only two of us) of calamari.

We've committed to eating well during the week but allow ourselves to indulge a bit over the weekend. And it just so happened that Fryday fell on a Saturday! Yum!

First, the calamari...

And then clam chowder...

Definitely a delicious day!

Happy Searching!