White Castle Hamburger My earliest memory of having a White Castle Hamburgers was back in the 1960s.  My Aunt’s Father owned a construction company and we went to White Castles to buy Hamburgers for the crew.  They cost $0.12 cents each at the time and […]

Vanilla Bean Scones I love a good scone and there are many to choose from.  They are perfect for any breakfast or brunch.  This recipe is for Vanilla Bean Scones. The list of sweet and savory scones grows as chefs get more creative.  Here are […]

Portillo’s Chopped Salad – Copycat Recipe This Portillo’s Chopped Salad – Copycat Recipe is just like the restaurant’s version.  It’s a hearty pasta and green salad combined.  A perfect finished dish to bring to a family gathering or a potluck at work.  Watch for an […]

Afternoon Tea (Part 1 Finger Sandwiches) I always wanted to open a little cafe that specialized in soup, sandwiches and pastries.  On Sundays, I would feature an Afternoon Tea. Afternoon Tea is a tradition that began in 1840 by the Seventh Duchess of Bedford, Anna […]

Pesto I love the first harvest of my Italian Genovese basil.  It is a perfect time to make Pesto.  Genovese basil is a sweet basil.  It is the essential ingredient in basil pesto, but it is also wonderful in sauces, on pizzas, and any other […]

Stuffed Mushrooms Your family will love these delicious Stuffed Mushrooms.  If you have any of the cream cheese mixture left over.  It makes a great spread for crackers.  You really could just form the filling into a cheese ball and serve as well.   For […]

Salsa I started making salsa back in the ’90s and have tweaked this recipe over the years.  This is a mild and chunky salsa with a slight kick that is sure to please your family.  This is also a really easy recipe to make.  You […]

Avocado Pineapple Salad Another easy composed salad with plenty of flavor.  Avocado Pineapple Salad is great for a weeknight when you don’t feel like cooking a full dinner.  Simply cut the ingredients and you are good to go.  This salad is light and refreshing.  If […]

Cauliflower Fritters When I was growing up, my Aunt used to host a St. Joseph’s Day table.  St. Joseph’s Day, March 19th, is the feast day of Saint Joseph.  After she passed away, my family would to go to a cousin’s house in Bridgeport, IL. […]

Shepherd’s Pie Shepherd’s Pie (a.k.a. Cottage Pie) Ground Lamb and/or Ground Beef mixed with onions, carrots and peas in a gravy, topped with delicious cheesy mashed potato crust.  A St. Patrick’s Day favorite!   What is the difference between Shepherd’s Pie and Cottage Pie?  The […]