The Long Memorial Day Weekend Special

It looks like New Hampshire is in for a rainy weekend but what the heck it’s a holiday. You might as well celebrate. Hopefully your roof has a decent overhang and you can stay almost dry at the grill. So what if you eat indoors, it’s the company that matters!

In or out, here are a few ideas for a Memorial Day Weekend feast:

Relax, Nibble and Chat! I found fresh, local asparagus at the, local farm stand yesterday. It is wonderful. Try some on my Asparagus Crostini with Sundried Tomato Pesto & Goat Cheese. Add some Tapenade, some fresh veggies and a few crackers and the appetizers are done.

On to the main course … if you’ve got a big crowd, you can’t miss with my Grilled Lamb or Hoisin Grilled Pork. Salads are great for a cookout. Prepare them in advance, give a last minute toss and serve. My Crunchy Slaw with Cilantro, Mint & Peanuts will be perfect with the grilled pork. If lamb is on your menu, try my Crunchy Salad with Apples & Grapes. Either way, my New Potato Salad Dijon is a good bet to round out your dinner.

For a red, white and blue dessert try my Strawberry & White Chocolate Fool Parfaits. Just add a few blueberries for garnish for the blue. Or churn up some Brown Sugar Yogurt Gelato and serve it with a generous spoonful of berries.

Have a great weekend and bon appétit!

What are your plans for the holiday weekend? I’d love to hear from you! Let’s get a conversation going. To make a comment, just click on Comments below. I’d be delighted to add you to the growing list of blog subscribers. To subscribe: just scroll back up, fill in your email address and click on the Sign Me Up button. You’ll get an email asking you to confirm your subscription … confirm and you will automatically receive a new story and recipe every week.

Want more? Click here for more seasonal menus! For a complete list of and links to all the recipes on this blog Click Here!

© Susan W. Nye, 2013

Spring Weekend Special

Bright blue ski and fluffy white clouds – sounds like a beautiful spring weekend. It looks like a good weekend to take a long walk or spend some time in the garden. Hopefully there’ll be a bit of a breeze to keep the black flies at bay.

It’s also a good time to invite friends around for a bistro dinner. If you need a little help, here are a few suggestions:

Gather around the table! Artichokes are in season! Start your meal with a delicious Steamed Artichoke with Bagna Cauda or Warm Lemon-Garlic Sauce or maybe some Artichoke Leaves with Shrimp.

For the main course give my Pork Tenderloin Medallions with Mushrooms & Mustard Sauce a try. Serve the pork with Roasted Asparagus & Walnuts and Lemon Roasted Potatoes.

In true French style, the salad comes after the main course. Try something with some crunch like my Fennel & Feta Salad or maybe a classic French Salade Verte (Green Salad).

My rhubarb is looking absolutely gorgeous! Either my warm and cozy Rhubarb Crisp or my sweet and tart Strawberry-Rhubarb Soup will be a great end to a great meal.
Have a great weekend and bon appétit!

What are you cooking this weekend? I’d love to hear from you! Let’s get a conversation going. To make a comment, just click on Comments below. I’d be delighted to add you to the growing list of blog subscribers. To subscribe: just scroll back up, fill in your email address and click on the Sign Me Up button. You’ll get an email asking you to confirm your subscription … confirm and you will automatically receive a new story and recipe every week.

Want more? Click here for more seasonal menus! For a complete list of and links to all the recipes on this blog Click Here!

© Susan W. Nye, 2013

Mothers’ Day Weekend Special

How will you thank Mom this weekend? With breakfast in bed? Out to a favorite restaurant for a big brunch or special lunch? Or maybe you’ll gather Mom and the family around the table for a special brunch or lunch.

If you need a little help, here are a few suggestions for the weekend:

Mothers’ Day Brunch! How about a delicious Omelet with Sundried Tomatoes & Brie. If you’ve got a big crowd, Asparagus & Goat Cheese Tart might be easier. If Mom’s got a sweet tooth, try my Baked French Toast.

Fill out your brunch with some fresh fruit. The strawberries are looking pretty good and some Honeyed Apricots with Creamy Yogurt. A bread basket is always welcome – especially if it’s filled with yummy home baked goodies Lemon Scones and/or Blueberry Muffins. And don’t forget the Mimosas!

Mimosas

Orange juice – preferably freshly squeezed and chilled
Champagne or Prosecco, chilled
Grand Marnier (optional)
Garnish: orange slice (optional)

Half fill champagne flutes with champagne or prosecco. Carefully top the glasses with orange juice and 1 tablespoons Grand Marnier. Give a gentle stir, garnish with an orange slice and serve.

Mothers’ Day Lunch! For a beautiful start to her special lunch, Mom will love my Roasted Shrimp with Tarragon Aioli. Grill up some asparagus and add it to your serving platter. Next, try one of my mom’s favorite salads … Grilled Chicken Provencal.

Top off your lunch (or bunch for that matter) with tart and sweet Lemon-Lime Squares.

Happy Day Mom and bon appétit!

How will you celebrate Mothers’ Day? I’d love to hear from you! Let’s get a conversation going. To make a comment, just click on Comments below. I’d be delighted to add you to the growing list of blog subscribers. To subscribe: just scroll back up, fill in your email address and click on the Sign Me Up button. You’ll get an email asking you to confirm your subscription … confirm and you will automatically receive a new story and recipe every week.

Want more? Click here for more seasonal menus! For a complete list of and links to all the recipes on this blog Click Here!

© Susan W. Nye, 2013

Busy Spring Weekend Special

It’s going to be a busy weekend! First, there is The Kentucky Derby on Saturday, otherwise known as The Greatest Two Minutes in Sports. And Sunday is Cinco de Mayo. Sounds like a great excuse for a party or two!

If you need a little help, here are a few suggestions for the weekend:

Celebrate the Derby with fun and festive cocktails! Think spring and whip up some crostini with two of my favorite spring veggies … Artichoke and/or Asparagus. Add a few Roasted Shrimp with Tarragon Aioli. Don’t forget to put out a few fabulous cheeses, some Tapenade with a few fresh veggies and some Roasted Almonds. And it’s not a Derby without Mint Juleps.

Kentucky Mint Julep
Serves 1

1-2 tablespoons minted simple syrup
Crushed ice
2 ounces bourbon
Garnish: sprig of fresh mint

Put the syrup in a tall glass or silver Julep cup, add about 1 cup crushed ice and the bourbon. Add more ice and a splash of water to almost fill the glass. Stir well and garnish with a sprig of mint.

Minted Simple Syrup
Makes about 1 1/2 cups

1 cup water
1 cup sugar
1 bunch mint

Put the water and sugar in a heavy saucepan. Stirring frequently, heat over medium until the sugar dissolves. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and continue simmering for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Remove the pan from the heat. Add the mint and steep for 15 minutes. Strain the syrup, cool to room temperature and refrigerate until cold.

Can be prepared ahead and stored, covered, in the refrigerator.

Unless, you’d prefer a Cinco de Mayo Fiesta: Start your dinner margaritas and a tasty appetizer. Try my Corn, Black Bean & Avocado Salsa or maybe my Avocado, Black Bean and Tomato Tostaditas . And if your day is crazy, keep it simple with some chips, Salsa and Guacamole. Don’t forget the Margaritas!

Frozen Mango Margaritas
Serves 6

1/2 lime
Kosher salt
1 cup golden tequila
Juice of 2-3 limes (about 1/4 cup)
Juice of 2 orange (about 1/2 cup)
1/3 cup Triple Sec
2-3 cups frozen chopped mango
Lime wedges

Rub the outside rims of six glasses with lime and dip each glass lightly into a plate of kosher salt.

Combine the tequila, lime juice, orange juice, Triple Sec in a blender. Add the mango,1 cup at a time, and puree until smooth.

Pour the margaritas into the prepared glasses, garnish each with a lime wedge and serve.

Onto the main course: How about a delicious Pork Mole. It’s great for a crowd. Serve the pork with steamed rice and Roasted Beans. Then again, Tequila Shrimp sounds pretty good. Or get out the grill for Spicy Chicken. Either will be delicious with Jicama Slaw.

Top off your feast with something sweet: I think something lemony would be nice. How about lemon Tart, Cheesecake or Mousse?

Have a great weekend and bon appétit!

Will you be watching the Derby? Celebrating Cinco de Mayo? I’d love to hear from you! Let’s get a conversation going. To make a comment, just click on Comments below. I’d be delighted to add you to the growing list of blog subscribers. To subscribe: just scroll back up, fill in your email address and click on the Sign Me Up button. You’ll get an email asking you to confirm your subscription … confirm and you will automatically receive a new story and recipe every week.

Want more? Click here for more seasonal menus! For a complete list of and links to all the recipes on this blog Click Here!

© Susan W. Nye, 2013

Easter Weekend Special

It’s Easter weekend! How will you celebrate? With a big family brunch or dinner and an Easter egg hunt in the garden? I’m hoping to spend the morning on the ski slopes. Easter dinner is served in the evening, not at noon, in my house. In any case, my garden is still covered with a foot of snow.

If you need a little help, here are a few suggestions for a festive Easter dinner:

Artichokes are one of my favorite spring vegetables! If you agree, try my Artichoke Crostini. Or maybe you’d prefer my Asparagus Crostini with Sundried Tomato Pesto & Goat Cheese. Or both!

Around the Table: Start your dinner with a bit of crunch. Try my Crunchy Salad with Apples & Grapes or my Fennel & Feta Salad.

On to the main course: Give me a choice and I will always take lamb at Easter. Why not get out the grill and give my Grilled Moroccan Spiced Lamb with Eggplant Salsa a try. To complete you dinner, add a spoonful of Israeli Couscous.

Top off your feast with something sweet: It’s maple sugaring season in New Hampshire. Maple Mousse with Apple Compote is a great choice for Easter dinner. For a light dessert, try my Honeyed Apricots with Creamy Yogurt or Blueberry Soup with Mascarpone Cream.

Happy Easter and bon appétit!

How will you celebrate Easter? I’d love to hear from you! Let’s get a conversation going. To make a comment, just click on Comments below. I’d be delighted to add you to the growing list of blog subscribers. To subscribe: just scroll back up, fill in your email address and click on the Sign Me Up button. You’ll get an email asking you to confirm your subscription … confirm and you will automatically receive a new story and recipe every week.

Want more? Click here for more seasonal menus! For a complete list of and links to all the recipes on this blog Click Here!

© Susan W. Nye, 2013

Weekend Special – Saint Paddy’s Day Celebration

Saint Paddy’s Day is Sunday! Will you be bringing friends and family together for an evening of good food and stories? Drag out that old green sweater, chill the Guinness (but not too cold) and practice your toasts. It’s time to celebrate!

If you are like me and don’t know a lot (i.e. close to nothing) about Irish cooking, you’ll need to wing it. Here are a few suggestions:

Think green to start! Although it has nothing to do with Ireland or Saint Patrick, Artichoke Leaves with Shrimp but they’ll add a touch of green to your party so give them a try. Artichokes are in the market and they make a delicious spring appetizer. To complete the scene, set out small bowls of bring green Castelvetrano olives and pistachios and relax.

The Main Event: It’s personal I know but, boiled and dinner just doesn’t make it with me. On the other hand, I love lamb and it’s a popular dish on the Emerald Isle. My Guinness Braised Lamb Shanks are a great choice for a Saint Patrick’s Day dinner. Serve them with a slice of warm Soda Bread and Roasted Carrots and Pearl Onions.

Something Sweet: Top off your feast with something homey. Try my Blueberry Crisp or Apple Bread Pudding.

          May you be forty years in heaven before the devil knows you’re dead.

Sláinte and bon appétit!

How will you celebrate St. Paddy’s Day? I’d love to hear from you! Let’s get a conversation going. To make a comment, just click on Comments below. I’d be delighted to add you to the growing list of blog subscribers. To subscribe: just scroll back up, fill in your email address and click on the Sign Me Up button. You’ll get an email asking you to confirm your subscription … confirm and you will automatically receive a new story and recipe every week.

Want more? Click here for more seasonal menus! For a complete list of and links to all the recipes on this blog Click Here!

© Susan W. Nye, 2013

Weekend Special – Comfort Food

Another storm has roared up the coast, leaving a foot of snow on the Cape where they neither need nor want it. Further north and inland, we’ve got little more than three, maybe four inches. Oh well, if you are a skier, a little snow is better than no snow.

What are your plans for the weekend? A little skiing or snowshoeing; a lot of shoveling? What about après ski, shoe or shovel? There is nothing like comfort food after a day outside. Here are a few ideas:

Catch your breath and relax by the fire with a glass of wine. Warm up some pita bread and chop a few fresh veggies and serve them with Baba Ganoush, Roasted Red Pepper Dip or White Bean Hummus.

While you unwind, let the big pan of mac & cheese se bubble in the oven. Warm and cozy, my the Decadent Mac & Cheese is a delicious end to a busy day. Add a nice crisp salad, Crunchy Salad with Apples & Grapes or Caesar Salad works for me.

For sweet comfort, I’m thinking Bananas Foster might be a good idea. Or for traditional Americana, maybe Peanut Butter Brownies or oh so chocolaty Triple Threat Brownies.

Have a wonderful weekend! Bon appétit!

How will you spend the weekend? I’d love to hear from you! Let’s get a conversation going.

Want more? Click here for more seasonal menus! For a complete list of and links to all the recipes on this blog Click Here!

© Susan W. Nye, 2013

Weekend Special – A Fondue Party

The snow gods have welcomed spring skiing with ten inches of new snow. Temperatures will be warm this weekend and I’m keeping my fingers crossed for sunny. It looks like a great ski and après ski weekend is on the way.

Will you be hitting the slopes this weekend? What about après-ski? Here are a few ideas for a festive fondue party:

Skiing works up an appetite and a traditional fondue starts with a platter of viande séchée (dried cured meat), jambon cru (dry cured ham), saucisson sec (dried sausage) and maybe a few cornichon and pickled onions. While it might be tough to find dried beef in your neighborhood, prosciutto and dried sausage from Italy are great substitutes for jambon cru and saucisson. Or keep light with Grilled or Roasted Antipasto (with or without a few slices of prosciutto and/or sausage) and a few Spicy Olives and Roasted Almonds.

Once at the table, I like to start the meal with a bit of crunch and a big garden salad with a Classic Vinaigrette. Relax; a fondue party is one of those meals where everyone takes their time between and during each course. Share old and new ski stories and reconnect.

As soon as there is a lull in the conversation, bring on the Traditional Cheese Fondue. As long as you grate the cheese before you sit down with that pre-dinner glass of wine in front of the fire, your fondue will come together in just a few minutes.

For a sweet finish to a fun-due evening, tradition calls for fruit cocktail with a splash of kirsch. Since I have never been a fan of fruit from a can, I think Blueberry Soup sounds a whole lot better!

Have a wonderful weekend out in the snow or relaxing in front of the fire with a great book! Bon appétit!

How will you spend the weekend? I’d love to hear from you! Let’s get a conversation going.

Want more? Click here for more seasonal menus! For a complete list of and links to all the recipes on this blog Click Here!

© Susan W. Nye, 2013

Weekend Special – A Star Studded Oscar Party

Sunday is Oscar night. Why not invite everyone over for a glamorous Oscar party? Hopefully, the latest nor’easter which is headed to New England over the weekend won’t disrupt the fun.

When it comes to the menu, use the best picture nominees for inspiration and enjoy an international feast of small bites and finger food. Set up a beautiful buffet tables and let everyone, relax, mix and mingle.

For Amour and Les Misérables, enjoy a taste of Paris with pâté. Both Salmon Mousse & Chicken Liver Pâté with Crostini will make a great addition to the party.

For Argo and Zero Dark Forty, try my favorite Middle East-inspired dips, Baba Ganoush and Roasted Red Pepper Dip with fresh vegetables and pita. If you want something heartier, enjoy mugs of Harira (a Middle Eastern Soup with Chicken, Chick-Peas and Lentils). Don’t forget the Roasted Almonds for nibbling.

For Life of Pi, travel to India with Curried Eggplant Soup Shots. Soup shots are a great addition to party of small bites and this one is delicious. Add a dish of Curried Green Bean Pickles to nibble.

For Beasts of the Southern Wild, enjoy a bit of Louisiana cuisine with Raw Oysters and Creole Shrimp.

For Silver Linings Playbook, try Philly-inspired football food or maybe a distant (very distant) cousin of the Philly Cheese Steak. How about Crostini with Beef Tenderloin, Stilton & Caramelized Onions & Mushrooms?

For Django Unchained, let the deep south inspired you with Barbecue Chicken. Keeping with the finger food theme, stick with chicken wings. They’ll be a bit messy but finger-licking good!

Lincoln is a bit of a tough one. Our 16th president was not particularly interested in food. However, he did have a fondness for cornbread so bake up a batch of your favorite cornbread.

To end the evening on a sweet note …

Mini Cups of Chocolate Mousse, Honeyed Apricots with Creamy Yogurt and Bananas Foster. For munching, add my Triple Threat Brownies and Root ‘n’ Tooty Good ‘n’ Fruity Oatmeal Cookies. Don’t forget to add a platter of beautiful fresh fruit.

Enjoy the party! Bon appétit!

What are your plans for Oscar Night? I’d love to hear from you! Let’s get a conversation going.

Want more? Click here for more seasonal menus! For a complete list of and links to all the recipes on this blog Click Here!

© Susan W. Nye, 2013

Winter Weekend Special

I played hooky this morning and spent a couple of hours on the mountain. Holey moley, what a day! The skiing was superb – fabulous conditions and the day – glorious and sunny. So now the only question is … will it last over the long holiday weekend?

Are you planning a long weekend on the slopes? Need a few après-ski ideas?

After a long soak in the tub, you’ll want nothing more than to sit by the fire, sip and glass of wine and enjoy a few nibbles. Try some Smoked Salmon Mousse with crisp crackers or cucumber wedges. Add a bowl of Spicy Olives and another of Roasted Almonds.

For a traditional après ski, nothing beats a hearty pasta. Fettuccine with Sauce Bolognese, Linguine with Bitter Greens & Roasted Mushrooms or Spaghetti with Sauce Puttanesca are all great choices!

Add a beautiful salad. I’ve got some beets in the refrigerator and am looking forward to a delicious Mixed Greens with Roasted Beet & Lentils. Of course there is a simpler option. Who doesn’t like a crisp Caesar Salad.

For a sweet finish to the evening, Rustic Apple Tart sound pretty good. Or maybe my favorite Lemon Tart. I found Meyer lemons in the supermarket this week!

On the slopes or lazy in front of the fire, have a great weekend! Bon appétit!

How will you spend the weekend? I’d love to hear from you! Let’s get a conversation going.

Want more? Click here for more seasonal menus! For a complete list of and links to all the recipes on this blog Click Here!

© Susan W. Nye, 2013