Holly Jolly Holiday Side Dishes

Turkey, ham, prime rib, they’re the staples of many holiday meals. But, think of the looks you would get from your guests if that were all you served them. The following recipes for simple yet delicious side dishes can all be made in less than 45 minutes from start to finish, including cook time. Each complements the traditional holiday fare. What’s more, the Rice Pilaf and Shrimp Dip will be welcome sights to your vegetarian guests. WILD RICE AND PINE NUT PILAF Ingredients: 2 tablespoons butter 1/2 cup diced celery 1/2 cup diced onion 1 box long-grain white and wild … Continue reading

Thanksgiving Recipes: Spectacular Sides

You can’t have Thanksgiving turkey without side dishes, right? For some families sides are almost as important as the bird itself. My sister-in-law doesn’t “do” turkey, but instead of complaining about the traditional entree she simply fills up on all of the incredible side dishes that various family members contribute to our holiday feast. Whether it’s your grandmother’s famous green bean casserole or your Aunt Mary’s famous cornbread stuffing, side dishes are an integral part of a Thanksgiving meal. As we countdown to the big day of thanks I will be featuring some of my favorite holiday recipes. I wish … Continue reading

Autumn Recipes: W is for Wild Rice

Welcome to October! Let the holiday countdown begin, right? I say that with a twinge of sarcasm because to be quite honest I am still lamenting the fact that our local pool closed a few weeks back. As for preparing for the holidays, well, that’s so way off my radar it’s not even funny. However, I realize that there are some of you who are in full-on holiday mode—-be it Halloween, Thanksgiving or (gasp!) Christmas (I know a gal who completed her Christmas shopping last weekend… we are no longer friends… just kidding) so I thought it would be helpful … Continue reading

Autumn Recipes: A is for Apple

There is a frost advisory posted for my neck of the woods tonight. Like it or not (NOT!) fall is on its way. Actually, I love autumn; it’s the season that follows so quickly on its heels that I dread the most. Still, I plan to embrace the fleeting season as much as possible by sharing some of my favorite autumnal recipes. And what better way to kick start this series than to begin with the letter A and the ultimate fall fruit—-apples. The versatile ingredient can be added to every meal and practically every course as illustrated in the … Continue reading

Stuffed Boneless Quail with Wild Rice and Sage Stuffing

Most people think of serving turkey, chicken, or maybe even ham during the holidays. But, here is a recipe for quail if you are ready to try something a little different. Stuffed with wild rice and sage stuffing, the quail will not taste like chicken. Because it is a game bird, it will have a bit of a “gamey” taste to it, but many people still enjoy eating it. For this recipe, you will need six boneless quail, salt, grated orange zest, vegetable broth, wild rice, bay leaves, vegetable oil, one medium onion, celery, fresh sage, eggs, walnuts, black pepper, … Continue reading