Trendy twists for the holidays

December 15, 2011

It’s the same every year. I want to make the nostalgic holiday foods that the season inspires, yet I also want to branch out, jazz things up, and enjoy dishes other than the same-old, same-old.

According to the National Pork Board, I’m not alone. Their recent “Holiday Table Trends” survey revealed that, while tradition is important, it’s continuing to take a back seat in holiday cooking. The survey went on to identify six food trends for the season – and not too coincidentally, they asked me to develop a recipe to celebrate each of them.

Brunch & Strawberry Rosemary Muffins

May 19, 2010

With spring in the air and flowers abloom, my thoughts turn to the quintessential vernal repast: brunch.

Brunch is both celebratory and relaxed. It’s comfort foods and festive foods at the same table. It’s an opportunity to socialize with the wide promise of a whole day before you. It’s an excuse to drink champagne before noon.

For all those reasons, to me, brunch the culinary equivalent of hedonism.