Tomato Mushroom Barley Salad

This salad, it is simple yet satisfying. It is also a way to understand barley and how simple it shows a multitude of uses. From risotto to a casserole and everything in between. the grain expands when it absorbs any liquid such as water, chicken broth, etc. This was different but it was satisfying.

Pizza Mexicana

Pizza is something that everyone loves to enjoy from time to time.  This recipe is one of the best pizza recipes that I have ever made.  The pizza dough can be intimidating to make, but this recipe makes it simple and it has an amazing taste to it.  We love thin crust pizza so that is what I made.  You can make this as spicy as you want or as mild as you want.  There are endless possibilities when you are adding toppings as well. So get creative and get the kids involved in making this fun dish.

Glumpkies

This is a dish similar to dolmas, but the difference is there is rice added to it. I have made dolmas before but never glumkies. This was an interesting dish to make. This is also a known polish dish. There are a variety of ways of making this dish but the concept is the same.

Kale, Beef and Potato Soup

An interesting combination for a nice hearty soup. Something to enjoy on a cold day or to share with family. A hearty flavored soup. This dish is originally a Portuguese dish, but instead of using Linguica (Portuguese sausage), it became a more American dish using beef tips(beef tenderloin chunks). CandiAnne’s note: My Aunt Carrie grew Kale in her yard so she made this all the time. It was a favorite at her house and across the street at ours. LOL being Portuguese, we obviously used the Linguica

Turkish Lamb Pilaf

Pilaf in general is a wonderful dish.  When you mix the lamb and the seasonings in with it, it is absolutely amazing.  I did some research to see what other dried fruits that they used in this region.  I found that cherries, figs, and apricots were used quite a bit in this style of cuisine.  This dish was something like I have never made before, and it is something that my family has already requested again. I made a Turkish Yogurt Dip to go over it, and homemade Naan Bread.  We made a full meal out of it.

Cacik (Turkish Yogurt Dip)

This dip or sauce depending on how thick you make it, is a quick and easy little something to throw together to set off any Turkish Dish you are making.  I served this on top of the Turkish Lamb Pilaf dish that I made and to go along with the Naan Bread that I served to make this meal more rounded out.  I hope you enjoy this.  It was a huge hit here at our house.  Especially with a house full of picky eaters.

Spinach Soup

This recipe was inspired by an article from a newsletter from a local power company in the 1970’s. I aimed to lighten and brighten the recipe as it seemed very heavy and over shadowed the spinach. I love using fresh produce when possible and this vibrant green soup was well received by the pickiest of family members. There are several ways to make substitutions to any lifestyle whether vegetarian or vegan. This savory soup may be served warm or chilled. Here’s the original from that newsletter

Orange and Pineapple Poppy Seed Cake

This cake is super moist and packed with flavor!  The orange and pineapple flavors marry well together to the point that the citrus and tropical flavors truly become one. Here it is glazed by an Orange Infused Cream Cheese Glaze and topped with Candied Orange and Pineapple Slices

Lamb Chops

Ever tried lamb before? Me neither! However, I will be making this a staple in my house! Be prepared to take cooking to a different level! Tender beyond anything you can think and minus a little marinade time super quick! The family will enjoy and more so you will be the new superhero in the house. I paired this with locally grown fresh cucumber, tomato, and red onion salad, as well as a basic Greek Tazaki sauce. You can pair this recipe with so many different options. In the winter, how about some roasted potatoes, onions, and mushrooms. In the …