Zucchini (Courgette), Tomato and Mozzarella Stacks; The Weekly Menu Plan

Zucchini, Tomato and Mozzarella Stacks Summer has arrived, finally, here in the Vendée. We've had crystal clear blue skies, light breezes and temperatures hitting 30C (86F) during the afternoon. The grass has gone into it's summer dormancy, the weeds have quit growing and the British are overrunning everything.  I did the weekly shopping today and … Continue reading…

Fresh Tomato Olive Salsa; The Weekly Menu Planner

Fresh Tomato Olive Salsa It's been an exhausting week. Mon mari is reclining gracefully on his hospital bed, complaining about the food.  ( I have SO lost faith in French medical care….. the FOOD isn't good???   Zut Alors!!!!) I have 3 weeks of uncut lawn to wrestle into submission, after perfect grass-growing weather. Not … Continue reading…

Fried Tomatoes with Mozzarella and the Weekly Menu Planner

This is the antithesis of the Caprese Salad. And it's not 'Fried Green Tomatoes', either. It's everything that one does not, normally, want.  But, I'm not getting a decent spring, now,  either, am I? Fried Tomatoes with Fresh Mozzarella You want rather hard, supermarket tomatoes for this, not nice, fresh garden ones and cow's milk … Continue reading…

Tomato Flan with Avocado and the Weekly Menu Planner

Tomato Flan with Avocado  These simple flans have the look and consistency of a soufflé without the work. Combine them with a sliced avocado and a bit of creamy dressing for a colorful first course. 3 eggs1/2 cup (160ml) tomato sauce (save the rest for Thursday)3 tbs Greek yogurt or plain yogurt or crème fraiche1/2 … Continue reading…

Tomato Tarts, Potato Chips and Good Wine

Go directly to recipe Our wine has finally gotten off its lazy metaphorical ass and started working.  There were a few hisses and fizzes yesterday morning (It's a big barrel, it's in the cave, it's easier to listen then to look).  This morning it sounded like hundreds of tiny firecrackers going off.  It's definitely working. … Continue reading…

Fresh Tomato and Mozzarella Pizza; and a “true confession”

Go directly to recipe Warning:  Embarrassing personal moment disclosed ahead.  For readers under 18 and others of a sensitive nature, please scroll down to the Pizza. To set the scene:  Mon mari is one of those guys that is very handy around the house and is usually found somewhere fixing something.  The other day he … Continue reading…