When the Mexican American Fastpitch Softball Tournament rolls into Newton every summer, Joey and I try to make it out to watch a few hours of the action. The games are definitely entertaining, but if I’m being honest, I’m mostly there for the food. Trying to pick what to eat from the various vendors is …
Continue reading “There’s a kernel of summer flavor in this pasta salad”
I’ve written before that I have some random, mostly mild food allergies that make certain recipes difficult for me. Specifically, tomatoes cause me trouble, and I have to limit how often I include them in my diet, no matter how much I love them. Because of that, I’m sympathetic to readers who sometimes email me …
Continue reading “Customizable pasta dish is worth every ‘penne’”
I was unloading some groceries a few evenings ago, and Joey came to inspect what I was pulling out of the bags. Noting that there was a salsa I don’t normally buy, a container of tomatoes and a box of pasta, he immediately asked what new recipe I was trying for dinner. After being the …
Continue reading “Making a cold version of tacos isn’t mission im’pasta’ble”
This is the first year of major holidays our family will celebrate without my maternal grandparents. Thanksgiving was a tough transition to the new normal, and I know Christmas will be even more difficult. When my paternal grandmother passed away several years ago, I began taking solace in using her pie pans every holiday season. …
Continue reading “Recipe traditions can provide a ‘berry’ Christmas”
When I close my eyes and picture my grandpa, I see his mischievous smile—one that went clear up to his eyes—and I can hear his laugh. I see his large hands, calloused from years of hard work, which were always willing to help anyone who needed him. And I’ll never see a pair of suspenders, …
Continue reading “Sometimes even salad can be comfort food”
A few weekends ago, Joey and his best friend decided to fire up our smoker in the backyard and fill it with everything from several racks of ribs to a pork loin. They tended the fire all day, hanging out in the garage with a set of washer boards to get out of the sun. …
Continue reading “Make garlic pasta salad to be the ‘roast’ of the town”