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Roasted Butternut Squash Salad

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Butternut Squash Salad photo
It used to be we talked about whether it was correct to wear white after Labor Day. Never mind that the store shelves are filled with Halloween (or scarier yet, Christmas) displays. Now, my world seems to buzz about whether it is right to post apple recipes before Labor Day or how many websites or magazines post pumpkin recipes the first week of September.

Are you a fan of butternut squash? It seems most people I know shy away from it. Sure it seems like it would be hard to peel and cooking it seems to be a bit foreign. But it says fall to me and now is the time to break out one of my all-time favorite salads. [Read more…]

Fresh Corn and Basil Salad

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Corn salad photo

Each Saturday morning I am at the local farmers market. I have to be there. I love the fresh produce. I love every part of it—the flavor, the sights, sounds, people, everything.

It is amazing how the fresh offerings change week by week. One week there isn’t corn anywhere, and the next week, each stand is stacked high with fresh corn right from the garden. Or melons. Or lettuce or peppers or whatever. Oh, the difference a week makes. Then suddenly, that fruit or veggie you were counting on is gone and you have to wait a whole year. Sure the grocery store may have some, but not that really great, fresh, juicy flavor you love. [Read more…]

Ramen Noodle Salad

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Ramen Noodle Salad
I’ve never understood folks who refuse to share their recipes with friends and family. This may sound funny coming from someone who writes recipes and receives $$ for those recipes, but let me explain.

Food, family, friends and the kitchen table—that makes for a life with a legacy. Connections, community, laughter and knowing all is well with the world. How much better does it get? Recipes are the link to those traditions, memories and good times. Long after we leave this earth those that love us dearly will make those recipes with fond memories. After the pain of loss, family and friends will cherish those meals that capture the presence of a loved one who has crossed over the rainbow.

My point?! Share your recipes with those you love. If someone requests a recipe, treat the request with the honor it brings. Start your legacy today! [Read more…]

Potato Salad

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Potato Salad
Potato salad–do those words bring a smile and cause you to pause and fondly remember days gone by? Do you recall family reunions, picnics, BBQ’s, vacations on the beach or at the lake and a plethora of happy times? Or do you shutter, shake your head and think, oh no! Not potato salad. Who makes potato salad anyway?

Potato salad falls into the same category as meatloaf, chocolate chip cookies and spaghetti sauce. Every home has their own version and that family recipe is truly the only correct way to prepare that traditional food. [Read more…]