Pasta with Pancetta and Peas

Ever looking for a pasta dish without a heavy sauce?  Sometimes I want the heartiness of pasta but I am not in the mood for a red or cream sauce.  This recipe fits the bill.  Smoky pancetta or bacon combines with peas and lemon in a barely broth sauce for a light yet filling meal! …

Glorious Gluten Free Pasta

I LOVE Masterchef and watch it in the kitchen as I cook.  I know, how much cooking can you get in your life?  My answer, not enough.  I would actually credit cooking shows for teaching me how to cook.   This recipe {for example} is based on the recipe demonstrated by Lidia Bastianich “Joe’s Mom” on…

Smoked Shrimp

Recently, Barry Archer bought a Kamado Joe smoker.  We have smoked just about everything we could think of in the last few months.  This is a new party appetizer go to.  To me, it says coastal Christmas and harkens back to my childhood in Louisiana. They are so easy to make and everyone loves them!…

Cranderberry Gin Fizz

Nothing says Christmas like cranberries {and booze}.  This delightful cocktail combines cranberry, elderberry and ginger ale in a spirit forward libation sure to please {or at least make your in-laws tolerable}. You’re welcome. INGREDIENTS: 6 fresh cranberries 2 parts gin 1/4 part St. Germaines 1 pt Ginger ale lime tuiles INSTRUCTIONS: Muddle the cranberries.  Add…

Scratch Refried Beans

I can hear you now, who in the world makes refried beans?  Just open the can, right?  When you have food allergies, cross contamination is everywhere.  Canned beans always have so much salt and nightshdes.  I make this in my trusty pressure cooker and they cook up in a flash! This is also an excellent…