Recipe: Tortellini Vegetable Soup


Tortellini doesn't always have to served in your standard pasta sauce.  It can also be enjoyed in a light broth (and makes it more filling).  Another quick soup - using store bought frozen tortellini!  No one needs to know.  It'll be our little secret....wink!

Recipe: Rice and Peas


If you've had Jamaican rice and peas, this version is quite different.  This is more similar to the Cuban or Puerto Rican style arroz con granules (litterally, rice with pigeon peas).  This takes about 40 min from start to finish, so give yourself some time; but the results are definitely worth it!  Rice does not need to be plain - kick it up with some flavour!

Recipe: Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins


Some of you may have noticed I don't bake much, but these lemon poppy seed muffins are a delicious exception.  The fragrant lemon with the crunch of poppy seeds is a classic combination, and just a touch of sweetness!

Recipe: Pasta alla Norma


This Italian dish was named after Bellini's opera Norma.  It's a classic Sicilian dish made with eggplant, tomatoes, basil, and ricotta salata.  If you can't find ricotta salata, you can substitute Parmesan or pecorino in a pinch.  If you think you don't like eggplant, this dish just might convert you!  It's a fresh and light - simply delish!

Recipe: Thai Soba Noodle Salad


This is a favourite lunch of mine.  Soba are Japanese noodles made from buckwheat flour.  They are low in calories and fat, and high in protein.  They have a slightly sweet, nutty flavour are are delicious paired with my peanut sauce!  I like to use up leftover chicken for some added protein, but it can be omitted for a vegetarian meal.

Recipe: Oven Roasted Pork Ribs


Those of you who aren't new to my blog, may have noticed I LOVE pork! And since my barbecue is currently buried in snow, the oven will work just fine for some yummy pork ribs.  This recipe only requires about 10 min of active work and the oven does the rest.  It doesn't get much easier is that!

Recipe: Southwest Salad


This is one of my favourite salads. It's just so refreshing! A perfect compliment to so many dishes, especially spicy or smoky barbecued meat. YUM!  It takes a bit of effort to dice everything, but it's a great opportunity to brush up your knife skills!