Cowboy Caviar – Appetizer, Side Dish, or Main Entree

Cowboy Caviar There’s nothing quite like Cowboy Caviar that says summer is here.  It is a celebration of foods that are in season. I generally make it when we grill out or go to a BBQ and I need to bring a side dish.  Fresh corn, fresh tomatoes, black beans,...
Vibrant Asian Salad with Peanut Dressing

Vibrant Asian Salad with Peanut Dressing

I get a lot of pleasure from cooking vibrant food.  Creating a meal in the kitchen is a stress reducer for me – it’s even meditative.  I also love preparing food with my family and friends.  It is a great way to socialize, co-create, and then enjoy the...
Asian Quinoa Salad – It’s Quick, Easy, and A Crowd Pleaser

Asian Quinoa Salad – It’s Quick, Easy, and A Crowd Pleaser

I had leftover quinoa in my fridge and was trying to figure out what to make.  I looked in my fridge and cabinets and checked out what I had on hand.  The mandarin oranges were calling out to me and I thought an Asian Quinoa Salad was just the ticket! Stir fry’s...
Southwest Black Bean and Quinoa Salad

Southwest Black Bean and Quinoa Salad

I had a hankering for a southwest beans and rice-type dish.  But rather than rice, I decided on quinoa.  Quinoa is so versatile.  It isn’t a grain, but it tastes like one.  It is an ancient seed crop from the Andes.  What is unique about quinoa is that it is the...
Purple Heaven – My Kind Of Coleslaw

Purple Heaven – My Kind Of Coleslaw

What’s the best coleslaw you ever had?  Mine is Purple Heaven – a combination of purple and green cabbage with a sweet tangy surprise.  It’s the perfect accompaniment to shredded chicken or pulled pork, or just as a side. I recently had a...
Versatile and Creamy Avocado Dressing

Versatile and Creamy Avocado Dressing

I was inspired to make a southwest chicken salad and thought a creamy avocado dressing sounded like just the ticket.  OMG – did I ever score with this one – if I do say so myself.  This dressing is so rich and creamy.  And versatile too.  You can use it as...