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Field Trip: New York Wine & Culinary Center

Today, the New York Wine & Culinary Center, “an experiential gateway to New York State’s incredible wine, food and culinary industries,” hosted its grand opening to the public. It’s located in Canandaigua, NY, part of NY State’s Finger Lakes region. I’ve been chomping at the bit to see this place, and I was fortunate enough […]

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Damn Fine Guacamole

Just before I popped it in my mouth. This is based upon a Cook’s Illustrated recipe that I found and lost a number of times. As a result, I have a vague recollection of the original recipe and now just wing it. It’s delicious, if I do say so myself. One note: there’s no cilantro […]

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Paula Deen’s Black Pepper Shrimp

On Tuesday evening, Shane and I returned from a fast trip to New York (City). We were there to catch a taping of The Colbert Report and, let me just say, it was FABULOUS. We had so much fun. I was a big fan before but now, I’m a colossal fan. (Incidentally, tonight’s Colbert Report […]

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Fruity Pebbles Treats

Photo courtesy of KraftFoods.com A few weeks ago, an old friend from high school mentioned his experience going on a field trip with his son’s class. Normally mild-mannered, in the company of 20 other 8 year olds hepped up on Capri Sun, Chips Ahoy, and sheer I’m-not-at-school excitment, his son was bouncing off the walls. […]

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Announcing Retro Recipe Challenge #2: Swinging Outdoor Wingdings

Who’s more swinging than Eleanor Roosevelt? That’s right. No one. The Round Up has been posted! *** wing·dingn. Informal.A lavish or lively party or celebration. *** For round two of the Retro Recipe Challenge, the theme is outdoor wingdings – parties held outside. First, pick a party you’ll be cooking for: church picnic? Sophisticated bridal […]

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Retro Recipe Challenge #1 Round-Up

I am filled with gratitude toward our Retro Recipe Challenge contributors. They threw on their decorative aprons, all-purpose pearls, and 2-1/2 inch heels, headed into their kitchens, and whipped up a little something for Wally and the Beave. Because it would be wrong — and dare I say, unfeminine — to let the tykes suffer […]

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Weekend Dog Blogging

Flurry in all his glory. Thanks to Cate at Sweetnicks for hosting.

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RRC Submission: Marsala Gelee, a.k.a. Retro Jello Shots

I find the 50s fascinating. Not having lived through them, however, my knowledge of the era comes largely through the hazy glow of TV reruns. I love all of it: the dreams of space, the modernization of food, the clothing that was “just so” – it’s surreal. The 50s emulate that wholesome everything-is-fine-and-dandy ideal, but […]

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Fresh Tomato and Basil Pasta

For the Weekend Cookbook Challenge, I turned to a simple dish from the homegrown (and published) Fall Favorites Cookbook 2005. Sure, I’ve done a lot of tomato-basil recipes lately, but the weather is warmer and I can’t get enough of them. They’re fresh and summery. This is a simple meal, great for a hot day […]

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Blatant Reminder: Retro Recipe Challenge Deadline In 29 Hours

Last call — get your entries in! For Retro Recipe Challenge #1, recreate a recipe first published between 1920 and 1975. When possible, cite your source, the year it was published (or created), and take photos! Post the results on your blog and send me the link by June 9 (tomorrow) at 11:59pm EST. Full […]

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