Author: shreddedsprout

Leftover BBQ Breakfast

Oooops!  Just when I thought all the guests had left for the evening …..they didn’t. We woke up to the leftovers both in the people variety and food. I wasn’t planning on serving breakfast but quickly needed to whip something up. Not tons of options in the fridge but had […]

S’MORE THE MERRIER

Who knew that today,  August 10th is National S’mores Day???  I didn’t. I’ve always associated that sticky classic with Fall, bonfires and crisp cool air. Well…. last winter I hosted a “Comfort Food” evening with a few college friends and was looking for the perfect dessert. When Randy suggested roasting […]

Watermelon, Feta and Mint Salad

I know, I know…..it’s been done.  I’m not trying to re-invent the wheel here, only to document a GREAT salad.  The combination of sweet watermelon, salty feta and refreshing mint make this the perfect summer salad. Be creative!! I decided to show two ways to serve this seasonal dish. First, as […]

Scallops with Avocado Salsa

I love scallops. The husband  loves scallops. Our good friends Mark and Kathleen love scallops. This recipe has become a regular appetizer for our casual get-togethers.  The combination of fresh summer produce and a caramelized scallop is hard to top. We pair this with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc. Avocado Salsa 1 avocado diced […]

Wheat Berry Salad with Mango

Approximately twelve years ago, I was fortunate to be able to travel to Ecuador. On that trip I discovered quinoa, a grain that when I came home was nowhere to be found.  I learned so much about quinoa and it’s importance in the South American diet. This ancient grain is one of […]

Gazpacho

Chicago, like 80% of the country, is burning up. I’m starting to feel robbed as we are losing much of our summer to indoors and air-conditioning! In lieu of BBQ, we are eating lots of salads and cooler alternatives. I have never been a big fan of cold soups but […]