Roasted Asparagus with Meyer Lemon Vinaigrette

This is a simple, yet delightful side dish. Simply roast the asparagus in the oven and when it comes out dress it up! This dish is delicious served hot, lukewarm or even cold.

Continue reading after the jump...

Meyer Lemon Vinaigrette

I made this vinaigrette to go on top of some asparagus, but I feel it is so good that it deserves its own post. Have you ever tried a Meyer lemon before? They are so interesting tasting. A Meyer is a citrus fruit which is actually a cross between a lemon and an orange. It makes a tasty and tangy vinaigrette. This dressing would be great on any type of salad or just drizzled on top of vegetables.

Continue reading after the jump...

Arancini Con Ragu

This is not an Italian dish that I grew up eating or making. In fact, I had never heard of it until I met my husband, his Grandmother used to make them for him. A few years ago I asked him what he wanted to eat on his birthday. After a few moments of silence he blurts out - Arancini! I had never even had this before, let alone made it. Did I mention that this conversation happened on my cell while I was driving to Whole Foods? Anyway, at the time I had a handy dandy iPhone so when I pulled into my parking space I looked it up. The first recipe I came across was this one from epicurious. Sounded good, so I went with it. My husband could not have been more pleased as he ate these. I have made them several times since, usually around the holidays. I made several changes (as usual!) to this recipe. I have since found out there there are several different ways to make this. Some arancini are plain, some have just mozerella inside, some are with peas and mozzarella (which is how his Grandmother made them) and some (like the ones I made)  have ragu inside.

Continue reading after the jump...

Happy New Year 2011!

Wow! 2011. How time flies, right?!? I am hoping that you all are having a wonderful start to your new year. I wonder what 2011 will bring and I just can not wait to find out! Love to you all.

Scratch.Love Lasagna

The key to good lasagna is quality ingredients. Homemade sauce, homemade noodles and the highest quality ricotta and mozzarella cheese. Don't forget to use fresh parsley- that really makes a difference. This dish is perfect for feeding a large group. This recipe is tailored for my large All-Clad lasagna pan (length is 14.5 inches, Width is 12 inches and the depth is 2.5'). Quantities might be slightly different for a smaller pan. My family just loves this homemade lasagna, and I love making it for them. I make it every year as a wonderful Christmas tradition.

Continue reading after the jump...