Leek and Acorn Squash Tarts; French class

I had an extra leek in the house (didn’t need it for the lasagne) and I had one, last, small acorn squash left. A little tart seemed like just the thing. You do remember I’m rather fond of Small Plates.…  Leek and Acorn Squash Tarts Total time: 45 minutes  Ingredients: 1 small acorn squash, cut … Continue reading…

Turkey and Leek Lasagne, the update

This weekend I cleaned the house, found the Christmas decorations, decorated the house, and baked Christmas breads (cranberry and pumpkin). After all that I needed comfort food. I could call this Three Cheese Lasagne but Turkey and Leek sounds so much healthier, doesn’t it? Turkey and Leek Lasagne Total time: 45 minutes  Ingredients: 8oz (250gr) … Continue reading…

Roast Leg of Lamb, 4 ways

But first….. Those who know me and / or read this blog know I hate to clean. I discovered the most marvelous cleaning tool today:  mon mari’s air compressor. I’ve used it often in the past to blow out our computers. When you live with two large, active puppies it becomes necessary to take the … Continue reading…

Risotto with Lentils and Spinach

First, a disclaimer:  I was tending the stove; keeping the home fires burning and all that rot.  It's been warm enough that we only light it in the evenings. As usual, I lit the fire starter (little cubes of fuel), arranged a few logs and left it. I'd forgotten that I'd cleaned it out this … Continue reading…

Shallots and Garlic and Leeks, Oh My! Warm Leek and Avocado Salad

Alliums (onions, shallots, garlic, leeks, scallions, chives, etc) are good for us. They contain lots of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They offer cancer protection, anti-inflammatory benefits and support for bone and connective tissues. They add flavor and interest to savory foods. They can be hot, sweet or pungent…. Sometimes all three depending on cooking method. … Continue reading…

Butternut Squash, Leek and Rice Gratin; the update

Yes, I’m still finding new ways with my never-ending butternut squash. But first – we have actual, visible, easy-to-see proof that we worked last week. We papered. Because he had to cut the sheet rock panels in half to get them upstairs, they were missing the beveled edge needed for a smooth finish.  Paper seemed … Continue reading…

Easy Chicken Pot Pie; life IS like a box of chocolates

We went to the ‘city’ yesterday. Bordeaux. It was for an annual doc appointment for mon mari (it was fine) and the shopping we save to do in the big stores. Our little provincial backwater, lovely though it is, is somewhat lacking in the choices offered by the mega-stores in Bordeaux…. You know, the kind … Continue reading…