Nostalgia in a Pyrex!
1980's Apple Kugel
This is probably the only recipe that Camera Girl has that is 8"x8". It is also the only reason to ever use canned apples. Yes, really. Yes, I know I have 3 apple trees in my garden. Trust me. It is ridiculous tasty.
Look, Ma! I Made It Myself!
Home Made Mustard
Sometimes making something fancy is easier than going to the grocery store! Spread your culinary wings and fly away with super delicious Mustard!
So Many Cucumbers!
Cucumber Salad
Even before I gardened, even before I was born, or my dad, or maybe even his mom...there was cucumber salad. So refreshing. So tasty. So essential at every family meal.
It's Getting Hot Out...Make a Salad!
Farmer's Chop Suey
Farmer's Chop Suey has a weird name that I can't seem to find a reference to. Oh well. It is tasty! It is crunchy! It is herby! And it is creamy! All good things! Make it!
I Like Bourbon!
Mint Juleps
Mint Juleps are the Best! They start with violence and end with Bourbon! Ok, the violence is just crushing the ice...but still...so fun! Add a sprig or two of Mint, some sugary goodness and a dash of Bitters. Done and Done! Now, where is my Derby Hat?
Mmmm...hamaRRRRRaaah!
Muhamarra
You have been following along for years now...I hope! So you know I love a mezze board for dinner! Here is one of my favorite additions - Muhamarra! It is a delicious Roasted Red Pepper and Walnut Dip. Naturally Vegan and easily made Gluten Free, I have also included substitutions for some of the more exotic ingredients. Go explore the world through your mouth!
So Pretty for the Spring
Everything Spice Carrot Dip
One of my favorite snickety-snacks is a crunchy Carrot. Here, they get a luxurious spin with a touch of Tahini, Olive Oil and Everything Spice. Quick, Vegan and Healthy! Shocking, coming from the Buttery Babe!
Grandparents are the Best
Salt & Pepper Noodle Kugel
Did you even know that Kugel could be made in a skillet on the range? Now you do! Make it and you will never go back to creamy kugel again!
Cozy. Comfy. Perfection.
Apple Butter Grilled Cheese
Autumn Flavors are the right thing to do all year long! Get a crunchy Parmesan Crust in your life.
Adult Fruit Salad!
Sangria
Everybody needs a little sun in their life...I choose to get mine with Sangria! Whisk me away to sunny Spain!
Random Leftovers Glow Up!
Brie Puffs
Make something from nothing. Bits of pastry, cheese, jam and nuts come together for a fancy-ass appetizer without a trip into the outside!
I Need a Snack!
Bagel Chips
Crunchy, Munchy, Salty, Good. Don't let your leftover bagels go to a sad place! Turn them into the best snack ever...Bagel Chips!
All the Deli Goodness!
Lox & Cod Chowder
Hearty, comforting and just a touch luxurious. This soup hits the spot when you want a lox and bagel but need something to warm you up.
Veggies in a Bread & Butter Blanket!
Creamed Spinach Grilled Cheese
A spoonful of leftover creamed spinach brings a new level of luxury to the favorite standby sandwich. Healthy veg, meet your future friends - Butter, Cheese and Bread!
Of Course I Want Fancy Dessert!
Chestnut Panna Cotta
It only has a few ingredients. It can be made all in one little pot. And it is super cute and delicious. Added benefit - Chestnuts! Which are the taste of fall - not PSL! Join me in pretending that we can jet off to Florence for the weekend.
So Spicy, So Perfect
"Too Much" Puttanesca
We work hard. We drink hard. We eat hard. This pasta is what I make after a long shift. It has too much heat, too much garlic, too much salty goodness. It is absolutely perfect. Enjoy eating big bowls of this steamy delight standing at the counter while bitching with your bestie or curled up on the couch binge watching anything. Be sure to accompany with too much adult beverage and a super comfy outfit.
So Hearty, So Healthy
Bean, Broccoli and Wheat Berry Soup
I heard that winter is coming! Totally need to be prepared. This one covers all the bases - hearty, chewy wheat berries, iron-rich broccoli and luxuriously creamy white beans. The Parmesan rinds give it a meaty taste, minus the actual meat. Make it vegan by leaving out the rinds and Parmesan garnish.
Veggies and Beans and Goodies
Vegetable Tortellini Soup
This one actually is healthy, not me justifying whatever I want to eat. A comforting bowl of protein, fiber and vitamins - and just a touch of cheese. I couldn't help myself!
It has a few Veggies...Maybe its a Salad?
Tequila Queso Dip
Ok, not a salad, considering the full pound of cheese. Whatever. I'm still eating it. You should too.
Have a Little Something...
Sweet & Spicy Nuts
Never have a glass of wine or a cocktail without the perfect bar snack! I keep these stashed on the counter at all times. They are as delicious with an adult beverage as with a hunk of cheese or just by the handful.
The Ingredients Sound Random, the Results are Spectacular
Peruvian Grilled Chicken
Soy, vinegar, garlic, cumin, oregano...what? Trust me. Make the chicken. Eat the chicken. Repeat. Don't forget the green sauce to dip.
Lettuce...Not Just for Salad Anymore
Peruvian Green Sauce
I love this sauce because it is punchy, fresh and delicious. It goes great with my Peruvian Grilled Chicken, but also veggies and fish. As an added benefit, I almost always have the ingredients in my fridge...even during quarantine!
Sesame Candy + Delicious
Halvah Cookies
Brown Sugar Butter Cookies with a hint of Cardamom and chewy, rich chunks of Sesame Halvah. So good. So easy. So much better frozen...oh wait, that is how I feel about all cookies. These are also great a room temp, with a wee bit of coffee or tea.
The OG Protein Ball
Deviled Eggs
As a kid I was not so into eggs. Then I realized that was because Camera Girl cooked the shit out of them. Oh well, I still love her. Deviled Eggs were strictly for Thanksgiving until I became a home owner. Then they moved into "Oh, it's Wednesday and I need a little pick-me-up!" territory. Seriously easy. Seriously addictive. Plus they are very soothing to make.
Beans and Veggies and Herbs! Oh My!
Persian Beans and Greens Soup
I love a this-and-that recipe. And while this Persian New Year's soup does have an actual recipe, it totally helps me finish up all of the random dried beans, greens and fresh herbs in my house. It is a hearty and healthy meal and you won't even notice that it is vegetarian!
Blenders are for more than Adult Beverages!?!
Blender Salsa
Taco Tuesday is alive and well in 2020. Why not upgrade with a great salsa recipe? Just remember to wash the blender well after making this quick salsa or your Margarita will be a little spicy!
'Cause Sometimes We Want Dinner Now!
One Pot Mediterranean Orzo
We are all doing a little more pantry eating now. Here is a great recipe that only takes about 20 minutes and is full of protein, fiber and carbs. If you want an even healthier dinner, use whole wheat orzo. If you would like a vegan dinner, omit the butter and feta. You can thank me tomorrow.
Tiny Meatballs=Big Joy
Passover Meatballs
We eat these as a first course at every holiday meal. Or anytime we need a little pick me up! Passover Meatballs, aka Sweet and Sour Meatballs are super easy to make, especially if you don't make all 10 pounds at once! The sauce is entirely pantry staples. And, just in case you weren't sure, that is the size of the finished meatball on a standard soup spoon.
Knish Me! I'm Jewish!
Potatoes Wrapped in Bread is Always the Answer
Deep into Quarantine. Need Double Carbs! Perfect for a pantry-based bake, onions, potatoes, yeast and flour come together to bring new life to an old family recipe. These dumplings will make everything better.
Stew from Afar
Beef for the Win
Day 4 of Shelter-in-Place. What's in the house to cook, as The Bunny is not letting me go to the grocery store. Ah, I have a chuck roast in the freezer, a couple pears on the counter, and some assorted root veggies. Time to make Korean Beef Stew! The house will smell so much better than Lysol tonight!
So. Many. Layers! Slow Cooker Lasagna
Yes, I might have used my kitchen blowtorch to get that golden brown and delicious top, but that was my only chefy move. Make a sauce, grab a box of dry pasta, a jar of alfredo and some handfuls of shredded cheese. Dinner will be ooey-gooey on the table in 6 hours. Plenty of time for a bottle or three of red wine.
Perfection. In Cookie Shape.
At times, admittedly few and far between, I can be indecisive. That's when I turn to this cookie. It is sweet and salty. Crunchy and crumbly. Great fresh from the oven or the freezer. Goes with wine or coffee. So, basically, perfect. Yes, my Salty Butter Cookies are perfect. I have no shame in saying it. PERFECT!!!
I Don't Just Play a Chef on TV
I also play one in real life! And sometimes I let my trusty CrockPot Slow Cooker help me be a better human. With a quick 30 minute set up the night before, I can plop the crock on the base in the morning and have dinner ready when I get home. I cook up some egg noodles while bitching about my day and viola! Dinner is served!
I Can't Feel My Face When I'm With You
The Spicier the Better! A little sweaty, a little numb. Actually, it will make a super quick and fun drinking game to see how many times I say "Numb" or a variation there of in the video! This Chili Oil comes together in less than 30 minutes and is a mid-week dinner game changer.
I Love These Dumplings So Much That My Dog Shares The Name!
Kreplach is my Puppy, as everybody knows. But they are also one of my very favorite foods. This recipe is my paternal grandma's - it is so delicious that cousins and aunties on both sides of my family call it their own! Yes, it is a lot of work. The Kreplach dumplings themselves freeze great, and the filling can be frozen before use so you can make Kreplach over one weekend or two.
My Herby Sidekick
You see me add it recipes. You listen to me speak lovingly about it. And now... Herb Paste can be yours! Follow along and you can riff on this fridge essential for decades to come.
Chowda' - Midwest Style
I love soup, no matter the weather. It is always comforting and restorative. This Corn Chowder is small batch - Buttery Babe style. It makes about 4 bowls worth. In our house that is dinner for 2 and some leftovers for my Not-Sad Desk Lunch. Feel free to riff and add some other veggies - diced Butternut Squash is great here.
My Freezer Loves Summer
Well, maybe I do, and just pretend that the freezer does as well. I had a basil overload last week, so whipped up a couple batches of Basil Pesto Base, popped it in ice cube trays and then into the freezer. Now I'm set to taste summer all year long!
Slow Down and Enjoy the Cheese
My slow cooker is never far from reach. And either is cheese! I mix up a huge batch of this "cheese and macaroni" set the thing on low, and continue on with my life. Then friends come over and tell me I am a Goddess of All Things Dairy and Carb. I tend to agree!
For the Love of Tomatoes
Yep. It is a fact...I have a tattoo of my first love on my left calf. The Mighty Tomato! Good thing I have our monogram on my arm, or the Bunny might get jealous... This super delicious, end of summer treat makes quick work of my delicious little tomatoes. Pour some white wine, get a crispy salad ready, and you are all set for any meal of the day!
Get Your Fiber!
Whole Grains! Plant Based Proteins! Vegan! Picnic Friendly! Prevents Sad Desk Lunch! 5 Ingredients! Wow, I just made the Official Salad of Summer!
Summer Lovin' Happened So Fast!
Sing it, Sandy....er, I mean, let's make this Corn and Fresh Herb Pasta so that Summer lasts for-ev-er! Throw the sauce ingredients in the blender while the pasta boils merrily away, stir, stir, eat. That's it. You can thank me later!
Only in Chicago
Local Hot Dogs. Local Giardinera. Local Bubbe. Join my Guest Chef, Genie, as she uses measuring cups for the first time making her Famous Hot Dogs & Beans!
Snap, Its Done!
Stop at the market on your way home from work. Pick up a bunch of delicious bites. Arrange them on a pretty platter. You have arrived, my Culinary Queen!
Sweet Pea, Dee-Dee-Dee
It is finally starting to warm up, so I am ready for my ever-so-easy Spring Pea Soup. It has 3 ingredients, so perfect for any occasion. You can even make it drunk...I heard...from a friend...
Tastes Naughty
I love a good bowl of Tomato Soup, especially when it is STILL snowing here in Chicago on April 27! This soup tastes like a classic Buttery Babe recipe full of my favorite cream and butter, but it has a secret! Veggies and beans add are adding their luxe touch!
Blessed are the Cheesemakers
Sometimes to look like a Kitchen Rockstar you just need to visit the grocery, chop a few things up and arrange on a pretty plate. Let me introduce you to my good friend the Cheese Board!
Cookies with Hidden Meanings
Is it a villian's hat? Is it spring fertility? Or is it just delicious? Let the cookie cause chaos at your next party!
Spread the Butter...I Mean Love
No tricky yeast needed to make this easy loaf! Start to to finish in an hour flat, leaving me plenty of time to decide what exactly is an appropriate amount of butter to spread on every yummy bite!
Maybe I am a Genius!
So ... heat the oven to 400* add a little pile of delicious cheese, wait a few minutes while you pour the wine... and amazing little crackers of delight practically make themselves!
I Might be a Pirate...
Hot Buttered Rum
Take some butter and spices, dump in hot water and rum. Done. Drink it up to warm your body and revive your soul! Or pretend that you are a Founding Father...or a Pirate. You know, an all around bad ass.
Oooey and Gooey
Corn Dip
Corn, Pickled Jalapenos, Mayo, Cream Cheese and Shredded Cheese! Let me pop this in the oven and then look like a Princess of Game Day Treats! Or a really stressed out Buttery Babe who might need to eat her emotions...whatever! Just make it and enjoy!
Exotic yet Accessible
Moroccan Grilled Cheese
Tasty bites of warm Naan or Pita Bread, topped with a delightful blend of Gooey Fresh Mozzarella, Salty Crumbled Feta and Fresh Mint? Count me in! Perfect before the Big Game, as a side to that healthy Lentil Soup you made in the IP or as a finishing touch that magnificent Mezze Board!
What's up, Doc?
Welsh Rarebit
I'm not quite believing the random stories about how this dish got its name. Here is what I do believe. Make a lovely cheese sauce. Eat it on toast. Here, we have cute toast cups, because, why not? I make this recipe with a dark beer - it is great with a lager, or even just milk. Camera Girl prefers the PG version, and so do some of our friends. Versatile, cheesy, buttery, crunchy, yum. Makes it! You will be so happy.
My Cake has a First Name
The Yum Yum Coffee Cake
Yes. A first name. And a title. The.Yum.Yum.Coffee.Cake. We lovingly refer to it as "The YumYum." You can refer to it as "Get it my mouth!" Sour cream, butter, brown sugar and walnuts make it tasty. Cinnamon and vanilla make it fantastic. Show off some skill and bake yourself The YumYum
The Magic Freezer
Artichoke Braid
We love to entertain. Some of us even remember to say when we have guests coming! My freezer has to be well stocked for all of those ooops moments. I can easily pull out the artichoke hearts and puff pastry and whip this up frozen to serve in less than an hour. And when I'm really smart, I freeze half the recipe so I just need to bake off the ready assembled artichoke braid.
All in the House
Pantry Pumpkin Pasta
Autumn is in the air. That means it is pumpkin season! Okay, okay, my birthday is Halloween, so I always I am ready to break out a pumpkin. But, really, kids, this pasta is awesome. All of the ingredients are on hand in my house, so they should be in yours as well. The sauce cooks in the same amount of time that the pasta boils. It's full of pumpkin goodness, vitamins, calcium, and butter. So, you know, perfect.
So Buttery
The Buttery Babe Pie Crust
An essential recipes. Perfect for chicken pot pie, fall galette, quiche or anything else you want to fill it with. Get your hands and your food processor dirty and then show off your mad pie skills.
Full of Produce, so it Must be Healthy
Fall Galette
A galette is a rustic pie. This one uses some of my favorite fall flavors - sweet potato and apple. Go raid the farmers market then spend a little time drinking hot cider and making this galette. You won't be disappointed.
Autumn in a Bowl
Butternut Squash and Sesame Soup
A quick bowl of warm comfort - that is what this recipe is. Super creamy without any animal product. This soup has a touch of tahini to bring a little something special. So yummy!
Bread Bondage
Napkin Dumplings
I bake a lot of bread. Sometimes there is leftover bread, so I pull it out of the freezer and use it in new recipes. Since it is mid-September, I have been starting to plan out our Saturday Thanksgiving extravaganza. I am totally bored with all of the variations on American stuffing - this year we will be having Viennese Napkin Dumplings!
Crunch on That!
Savory Granola
Comfort foods are often a little soft or single textured. This granola can change that right up. Jazz up your pumpkin soup, morning granola or hearty salad with these crunchy grain clusters! Chock full of oats, quinoa, millet and seeds, savory granola will punch you in the taste buds and keep you full and happy.
Zucchini Overload
A chef once told me that "Zucchini is offensive to the palatte." I don't think he realized how easy they are to grow in the garden! So here is one of my many recipes to use up the bounty.
Too Many Tomatoes
Slow Roasted Tomatoes
Tomatoes are one of my favorite fruits. I love them so much that there is one permanently placed on my left calf. In the garden, I grow at least three varities each summer. Since the garden is my happy place and tomatoes are my happy fruit, you can understand when I say that there are a lot! This is how I keep summer going all year long.
Custardy Fruity Happiness
Pear Clafoutis
I like a dessert that I can mess around with and it still tastes good. I really like a dessert that has minimal ingredients. And I really, really, like a dessert that is so chock full of fruit I can serve it for breakfast and not feel even a tiny bit guilty. Let me introduce you to your new favorite dessert...Clafoutis!
Heaven "Scent" Cake
Semolina Cake with Orange and Anise
This cake is a sunny yellow, super moist and smells like a fancy after-dinner beverage. It has no eggs and transforms to dairy-free easily. Brighten up your dessert game with Semolina Cake! So yummy, I couldn't even get a photo before my family devoured it!
Of Course I Have an Apple Tree, or Three
Apple-Pear Sauce
Sometimes you have a lot of apples. Like when the trees are super excited about fall, or you went on an apple-picking date, or it's after Rosh Hashanah and you are so over it, or you went overboard at Costco! This is a great way to use up the fruit. The pears add a gentle sweetness, the lemon a little zing. Pour it over ice cream, dollop over yogurt, or go super old school and have it with a classic PBJ sandwich.
I Ain't no Challah Back Girl! Oh Wait, I Totally am.
My Favorite Challah
It's that time of year, kids. When I go through a twenty pound sack of flour in about a week. And a few flats of eggs. And several bottles of honey. It's Challah Time! Here is my favorite, along with some step by step pictures for fancy round loaves. Challah is great no matter how poorly you braid it. And if you are me, it's pretty poorly. 🙁
Roots on Roots
Creamed Turnips
The darling of root vegetables (ok, not a potato, but I love them!) teamed up with a hit of sharp horseradish. Tame the whole thing out with a dollop of cream cheese and a flurry of chives. Festive, comforting and pretty. Kinda like me. Except for that comforting part; I'm a little bitter.
I Win the Toast Game
Semolina Sourdough Bread
Avocado Toast. Tomato Toast. Poached Egg Toast. Buttered Toast. All the Toasts need to start with a good bread. This one is our current favorite. Perfect straight from the oven, freezes nicely and toasts like a dream.
Cake for Summer Lovin'
Coconut Lime Crunch Cake
I like a Pina Colada. And Dancing in the Rain. But this cake is better than both - combined! Buttery and a tiny bit tart. The crunchy-chewy coconut crust adds intrigue while the zip of lime adds interest. Its like a late night flirtation...in cake form!
Love is a Cookie
French Almond Macaron
When I lived in Upstate New York and would come visit Chicago, my best friend would always make sure that I had enough Macaron in my bags to last until the next trip home. When The Bunny and I were dating, he would surprise me with little boxes of perfectly plump Macaron. These cookies are how love is expressed...at least to the Buttery Babe!
Crunch, Crunch, Crunch
Thai Turnip Slaw
I love rich, fatty, glorious creamy foods. I love pastries oozing butter. I love foie gras. I love mashed potato that is equal parts heavy cream and spud. But sometimes, even I, the Buttery Babe, need to eat a few veggies. And when I do, I like them to be super crunchy so that I know I ate them! A fex extra chews is good for the tone of my jaw muscles, right?
This Thai inspired slaw is super flavorful with garlic, mint, basil and chili. It has turnips and carrots for crunch and vitamins. No mayo, so it is a great carry-along to a picnic, BBQ or a not-sad desk lunch.
Alien Veggies for Dinner
Kohlrabi Rosti
Yes, I make a lot of things in my skillet. I think by now you understand that I have a thing with pancakes. But this one has a sexy name. Rosti! And is completely made out of vegetables. So there. Super healthy! Ok, there is a smidge of butter in there...
Summer in a Bite
Vegan Summer Rolls
I always pack my lunch for work. That way I know I will like it and it will have some type of nutritional value. These Summer Rolls have protein, veggies and fresh herbs. Plenty of flavor and texture to make my miniature break see like a quick getaway to Southeast Asia. Perfect cold or room temperature, vegan and gluten free. Could you really ask for anything more in a recipe without butter?
All Day Pancakes
Savory Dutch Baby
Pancakes are really the perfect food. Top with butter, fill with veggies, add some eggs. Make them spicy, crunchy, plain or surprising. Here is an excellent pancake to eat for any meal, or cut it in wedges for a fun appetizer. Cheesy, chive-y batter, roasted seasonal asparagus and a festive whipped cream garnish. Get the cocktails ready...this one is ready in less than half an hour!
Something from Nothing
Bits and Pieces Lasagna
Sometimes there are a bunch of random things in the house that need to get eaten but they just don't make sense together. There isn't enough of anything for it to be a meal, but combined, they can be a wonderful hearty treat. The common thing that can bring all socially awkward refrigerator stragglers together? Noodles, of course!
Exotic Snacking at its Best
Vietnamese Rice Crepes
Crunchy, veggies, carbs, protein and spicy! Yes, this has them all! Plus it is vegan and gluten free. My adaptation of the classic Vietnamese Rice Crepe is quick to throw together, is to riff on and delicious to boot. Fill your kitchen with the smells of a night market and your belly with the best of snacks. Open a cold beer and enjoy it all with friends!
Emotional Eating to the Rescue
Sweet Noodle Kugel
This recipe is designed to bring comfort to those who have lost a loved one. Full of butter, sour cream, cottage cheese, noodles and two types of sugar, there is nothing here that won't make you feel better. Our "Shiva Kugel" can be served at a fancy brunch, too. The Bunny asks for it whenever he thinks that he can get away with it. Here's the thing...don't mess with it! Real butter, full fat dairy, all the sugar.
Hot Melty Cheese Love
Baked Brie in a Bread Bowl
Sometimes something is so good, you need to stop everything and just be a part of it. This Brie is one of those things. 3 ingredients melded together so deliciously that all you can do is eat and smile and eat and smile. It is warm, gooey, cheesy, jammy and crunchy...all at once!
I Feel Pretty, oh so Pretty!
Hazelnut Meringue Cake
Cake is a glorious creation. It's yummy, pretty, and way too easy to consume vast quantities of. This cake is a little annoying to make, but lovely. It has no oil, no dairy, and is gluten free - perfect for the occasions when you have a bunch of people all on different diets. Also, the recipe makes two layers! You can serve as is, or put a little whipped cream and berries in the middle. I serve it with a Rose All Day Compote and some Prosecco!
A Kugel is a Square is a Casserole!
Broccoli Kugel
A recipe my mom, Gidge, taught me to make as a little girl. When I started to bring college friends home for the holidays I needed to explain what kugels were, so I brought out my favorite childhood term for kugel - squares! I explained that all traditional Jewish foods are square or round. Kugels are square; Matza Balls and Latkes are round! A handful of staples and 1 hour are all you need to make a holiday ready veggie.
Gimme the Cookie and Nobody gets Hurt!
Passover Mandel Bread
Cookies are a girl's best friend. Ok, so are diamonds, bubbly wine, and...oh wait...actual friends! Anywho, back to the cookies. These are delicious almond scented nut cookies, based on an old family recipe. Be traditional and say "mandelbrot" or be trendy and say "biscotti!" Either way, make the cookies, share the cookies, eat the cookies.
I miss the Spring!
Broiled Feta with Spring Salad
I love the spring. I love to work in my garden, drinking rose, thinking about all of the delicious veggies and fun parties that we will be having in the summer. Spring is foreplay, and it is magical. So is this super easy feta dish. Eat it. Pretend you are warm, tan, famous, and entertaining somebody who is very attentive.
Can't Pronounce It, So Just Eat It!
Japanese Cabbage Pancakes
Okonomiyaki have become kind of an obsession lately. We eat a lot of green vegetables - cabbage, kale, chard, collards, and I am always looking for a new way to cook them. Over the summer I made so many variation of these pancakes that I thought The Bunny would rebel. But he powered through. Now we have a perfected version. It whips together quickly, can be bulked up with any goodies lurking in your kitchen and will make you look like a bad ass if you can pronounce the name of this yummy treat!
Whap Goes the Chestnut!
Chestnut Pasta
I got lost in Tuscany trying to go to the Torture Museum, so ended up spending a lovely day in Sienna. As I was staring off into the vista, a chestnut fell from a tree and hit me on the head. A tiny accident that created a life long love of the smoky, buttery morsels of delight known as Chestnuts. This pasta is easy to make, pairs beautifully with mushrooms or just butter and cheese, or can be used to make luscious ravioli. Chestnuts...not just for roasting anymore!
Heart of Goat!
Goat Cheese Tempura
Crunchy, creamy, salty, sweet, and just a bit naughty. Whip up a quick batter and be ready for a cocktail worthy appetizer in just a few flicks of the whisk! Top these tempura globes with a few of my favorite things...honey and freshly cracked black pepper! Make these now, and make my pepper mill proud!
Crunch, Crunch, Crunch!
Crunchy Cheese Fritters
This recipe seems to hit all the right notes, without even trying! Mix some ricotta with some Parmesan, hid a melty cheese nugget in the middle. Bread and fry to golden brown and delicious (GBD for short) Consume vast amounts while drinking sparkling wine and gossiping with your friends. Yep, just about perfect....I want some right now!
Melty Cheese, Be Mine!
Mexico City Quesadillas
I am always craving crunchy and cheesy. Preferably in the same bite. Add a little heat, now I am in love! I first had these quesadillas standing on a street corner in Mexico City and I have never been the same. Crunchy edges, gooey center, and the fun of a project. Change the filling up to make them yours. Big, tiny, or in-between, Mexico City Quesadillas are always a hit!
Basta Pasta! (Said No One, Ever!)
Fresh Pasta
I love butter. And I love carbs. So naturally, I love buttered noodles. But they can take a turn to the fancy side when you make the pasta by hand. It's not hard, you don't need expensive toys or obscure ingredients. Just a counter and a rolling pin. Or an empty wine bottle if you don't have the rolling pin. And we ALL have empty wine bottles!
Something to Taco 'Bout!
Hand Pressed Corn Tortillas
Sometimes the simplest things bring the most pleasure. Mixing some masa harina, water and salt to form a dough. Roll it out and 2 minutes later - literally - you are shoving hot, fresh tortillas in your mouth. Make me a Margarita and start grilling the skirt steak, Bunny, 'cause Taco Tuesday just go a whole lot better!
Must Have Carbs!
OMG Sour Cream Scones
Well, we conquered the Lemon Curd. And while some do advocate for eating it with a spoon, out of the bowl, in the glowing light of the fridge, I like something a bit more civilized. Join me for a scone, won't you? I promise good gossip, a spot of tea, and a glass of bubbles!
Fancy Lemons for My Fancy Man
Meyer Lemon Curd
I'm a happy girl. I cook all day, hang out with my Lagotto Romagnolo puppy, and have an awesome husband. But there are still a few things that make me even happier! Bubbly wine, sparkly diamonds, and High Tea! The Bunny is so smart that he proposed at high tea - all my favorite things at once! Lemon Curd is essential for tea, and life, really. Tart, sweet and buttery. Yum! Try this one with Meyer lemons and whole eggs.
BUTTERnut Makes it Better!
Butternut Squash Phyllo Cigars
Tender roasted squash, caramelized onions, salty feta, a touch of honey...I could keep listing all the reasons that this appetizer is delicious, but then I would just be reading a recipe! Crank up the oven, pour a glass of wine, and get yourself into a phyllo-frenzy!
Paolo il Gnoccho
Potato Gnocchi
You know that the Buttery Babe has a thing for International Dumplings! The Bunny loves his potato dumplings...and he loves mushrooms...and he loves cream...so - Potato Gnocchi with Mushroom Cream Sauce. I know the way to my man's heart is thru his tummy. These are not so complicated and just as good with a drizzle of melted butter if you don't make the sauce.
Almost as Good as Bert's...
Butter Cookies
My grandmother was always generous with sharing her recipes. But there was something not quite right with each one. I've spent years perfecting the ratios to my father's favorite cookies. One day, maybe. Until then, enjoy the butter cookies. They should be served with percolated coffee or Scotch for the most authentic flavor.
It's Healthy...There's Fruit in the Middle!
Cranberry Bars
Leftover cranberry sauce from earlier? Or half a jar of apricot preserves lurking in the fridge? Layer that luscious fruit goo between buttery, nutty, oaty dough. It's practically a super food. In a warm, crunchy square. And it goes well with coffee, tea, toddys or egg nog. Perfect for just about any occasion and questionable good for you - turn that oven on, baby!
I want LATKES!!!
Savory Potato Pancakes
Better hit the gym early, 'cause you are not moving after consuming all of these delightful potato pancakes. Bring on the applesauce and sour cream. You might serve them as a side to roast chicken, but I say that the bird is the side when latkes are on the plate!
It's a Sweeeeeet Potatooooooo!
Left Over Sweet Potato Pancakes!
Did you make too many sweet potato? On purpose or accident? I won't tell. Just make these easy pancakes and all is forgiven!
Butter and Rosemary and Cookie! Oh my!
Rosemary Shortbread
Need a delicious recipe that can be a dessert or an appetizer? Then you need my Rosemary Shortbread! So buttery, so crumbly, so perfect for any occasion!
I'll Bring the Berries!
Easier than the Can Cranberry Sauce
For some reason, I have issues with can openers. They are just not my friends. Oh well! I have other redeeming qualities. Lose the can and look like a culinary badass, just like the Buttery Babe!
Did Somebody Say Biscuits!?!
Black Pepper Biscuits
Everybody knows how much the Buttery Babe loves her butter. And her pepper mill! Here they are, together at last! Black.Pepper.Buttermilk.Biscuits!!! I'm so excited that I might need a puff of my inhaler!
International Dumpling Extravaganza!
Spaetzle
We just came back from Vienna - small town, many dumplings! These "little sparrows" are easy to make and can be served many ways. Just 3 ingredients are needed to make dinner a little more special.
Ras al Hanout
Moroccan Spiced Broccoli
Sounds exotic! Heat that oven on full blast, whip up a tasty spice rub and you have a healthy side. Add a sweet potato, poached egg or some chickpeas and "Top of the Shop" spice will be your new go to Meatless Monday dinner.
Date Night!
Salmon with Mustard & Rosemary
Make your dining room the best date night spot in town! The Bunny and I love this easy salmon that we can throw together in 20 minutes. A quick mayo-mustard-herb sauce keeps it moist and hazelnuts bring the crunch.
Videos
International Dumplings
Ricotta Gnocchi
Nuhh-key! Gnochi! Cutie! Even if you can't pronounce these ricotta dumplings of delight you can eat them! And you can whip up a batch in a flash. Grab your ricotta, pour a glass of Champagne and impress yourself with your mad skills! Don't forget the luxurious butter sauce.
Videos
International Dumplings
The Gnudi Know-How
Want a quick and healthy dinner or starter? Get to know the Gnudi! These little dumplings are chock full of greens and ricotta cheese. A few minutes in simmering water, a splash of tomato sauce and you are golden. Plus, they have a cute name.
Videos
Rosh Hashanah Rundown
The Honey Cake
Tale as old as time. Girl meets boy, girl gets family recipe, recipe is wrong. MUST FIX RECIPE! My 2nd year making this cake was perhaps the most entertaining, and the most Emily and The Bunny ever. I had made the cake, let it cool, and put it in the cake dome on the counter. I then went to work. When I came home at midnight, I freaked out because The Bunny had cut a huge wedge of honey cake as a snack, and it was being served in 2 days for holiday dessert. The Bunny was in a world of trouble. When I served the cake, everybody is chewing, and chewing, and chewing, looking around and not knowing what to do. The cake was so dry and horrible. "Bunny, why didn't you tell me the cake was nasty?!?" The Bunny's calm response: "Would I have been in more or less trouble?"
So here it is...it may not work for you. The recipe has been adjusted so that it usually comes out nice, but Honey Cake is a fickle thing.
And Some Whiskey Sauce to go with...
Savory Breakfast
Dill Feta Breakfast Pastry
I don't like sweet breakfast. But I do like pastry. And cheese. And herbs. These are great for breakfast, or make them smaller and serve as an appetizer. I won't tell you how to live your life.
Big Girl, You are Beautiful!
Holiday Turkey
My darling mother taught me to shove a pound of margarine in the "tush" pour on a bottle of Italian dressing, wrap the pan tightly with foil and walk away. The turkey would braise in its own little sauna. This is an updated, less greasy, less chemically version.
My dad always carves the turkey, even when we are guests at other people's homes. He was very mad when I declared that I could carve my own. The best part of the holiday when I was little was standing to his right as he carved away, being fed tiny morsels of turkey and getting to pick at the carcass while he put the slices on the tray.
Sunny Sunday
Romance on the Patio
A small miracle occurred; The Bunny woke up before me and took Kreplach the Puppy on a walk. I woke up to the delightful smell of French Press coffee, puppy kisses, and Buddy Guy playing downstairs. No, my favorite Blues man was not actually playing in the kitchen, but his voice is impeccable even through our speakers. I put myself together, let The Bunny pour me a boozy coffee, and set breakfast to cook while we drank coffee on the porch and contemplated if we wanted straight Champagne or to add orange juice and pretend that a Mimosa was a healthy beverage.
Windy Wednesday
Beef Carbonnade
The weather is finally cooling down here in Chicago. It is time to start making stew. Here is one of my favorites, and it is easy to make in the oven, the slow cooker or the Instant Pot. I included a video tutorial, because that's how I go!
Dinner Favorites
Creamy Polenta is Summer Heaven
You might have noticed a theme...I love polenta! Overheard at a restaurant in Bologna, years ago, "Try the polenta...It's in season!" I laugh every time that I say that sentence in my head, which is at least once a week. Polenta is always in season, as it is a dried grain. However, my tomato salad with fresh herbs, the corn kernels, and the luxurious burrata cheese make it a Summer must eat. The recipe is below, and the how-to video is on the video page. Everything tastes better when you cook along to my soothing voice!
Labor Day
A Brisket is Born
I love brisket. Braised in ketchup, beer and onion soup mix ala Gidge. Pickled, smoked and steamed to pastrami perfection for Friendsgiving. Cubed up as stew meat. Ground into hamburgers. All delicious. I am a big girl. I am a brave girl. I will conquer the smoked brisket. 12 hours in my Big Green Egg, 12 tasty adult beverages. Add sides, pickles, friends. And my father telling The Bunny that I had had enough. Yes, cut off in my own garden.
Garden Delights
Eggplant for The Bunny
My husband, aka The Bunny, is particularly fond of Eggplant Parmesan. Not the authentic versions that we ate all over Italy, not the modern versions that I have tried on molecular kicks, but true old school red sauce Americanized Eggplant Parmesan. And it is his lucky summer...my eggplant shrubs are producing in overdrive. Here's how to make my man very, very happy.