// When it comes to the Thanksgiving meal and its dishes, the members of my family are traditionalists who just tweak old recipes. The menu is like many others: turkey, stuffing, sweet potatoes, pie, store-bought Hawaiian rolls (who are we kidding, we all love these), and an abundance of gravy.  

To prepare for this year, I did more than just fancy up a classic, I decided to implement a whole new dish with this salad. Farro is a common Italian grain that is acclaimed for its nutty flavors and chewy texture.  Its hearty, delicious, and can stand against any super grain in the nutrition department.  Coupled with the plump, roasted grapes that simply burst in your mouth, and the earthy, sweet lacinato kale, this salad is a winner and a beauty on any holiday table.

// In Seattle, apple season is in full swing.  Honeycrisps, braeburns, ambrosias, and many more varieties line the stalls at our local farmers market. The abundance is overwhelming, and for that I am grateful.  With a zing of lemon and the earthy undertones of thyme, you will find that most apples that can hold their shape will do nicely for this cake.  Enjoy as an end to a fall meal or as a morning treat.  

// The bright flavors of late summer cloaked in the warmth of fall, makes this gratin perfect for the changing of the seasons. Enjoy as a main dish, a side, or put a poached egg on it and have it for breakfast. 

// An end of winter pie.  Flakey, buttery crust atop a vegetable and beef filling that has been deepened by the richness of a Guinness.  A healthy-ish addition to your St. Patty's Day festivities.

// More and more I find that my cooking craves simple, elegant ingredients, ingredients that by the nature of their quality add flavor and depth.  This side is an example of this movement. Pairs well with any beef or pork main dish.

// The grey in the Pacific Northwest is an ever present force in the winter.  As it moves the mists in, dampening the earth, it brings a deep chill to the bones of the people of this wild land. It calls for long afternoons dabbling in the kitchen creating comforting aromas and heavy, nourishing meals that stick.

Packed with high fiber cannellini beans, hearty root vegetables, and a whole pound of lacinato kale this stew will provide your body with a plethora of nutrients. The thick broth that is deepened with herbal flavors invites the crusty sourdough to slop right in.  

// On those dark stormy nights, whip up this bright salad and cure those winter blues.

// Ancient grains are unchanged by time or hands. They offer a glimpse into the past while filling our bellies with a whole lot of nutrients and fiber.  Coupled with the fullness of the squash, the brightness of the lemony swiss chard, and topped with a poached egg, this breakfast is sure to nourish and sustain. A great way to start the day!

// Tangy and sweet, this is a show stopper at any holiday table.  Joy, peace, and good cheer!

// For a more intimate holiday meal, try this recipe. A deep richness from short ribs, a sweetness from the puree, and a zing from the pomegranate seeds. This dish will leave you comforted and wrapped in a blanket of love.  Happy Holidays!

//Simple and light, these little puffs are a nice addition to a holiday gift basket. This recipe is much like others, except it calls for browning the butter, giving the meltaway a richer, fuller flavor.

// A simple recipe that takes under 45 minutes from start to finish.  Great for lunches for the week or as a light spring dinner.

// When I worked at a catering kitchen and bakery a few years back, one of the first jobs I had in the morning was to make all of the quiche and frittata for the day.  Often times it was still dark outside, as the sun had not risen yet, and the kitchen was quiet.  It was my favorite moment of the day.  I would put my apron on, turn on music, and methodically prepare the ingredients. I delighted in coming up with different variations. This quiche was birthed out of those peaceful mornings.  Light and fluffy, with a zing of lemon, this is an elegant addition to any brunch menu.

// When rhubarb arrives at the farmer’s market, a little sigh of relief moves through my body.  Spring is here and with it comes newness and abundance on the plate. A little tangy and a little sweet, this is a simple recipe that can be used for breakfast, a snack, or a lighter dessert.  

// A fulfilling and bright spring dish. The herbed whole wheat pasta adds a level of depth and heartiness while the peas and sprouts provide essential lightness and nutrients. If you have never made homemade pasta, I encourage you to give it a go. It is relatively simple and is a totally different experience from its dried counterpart.

// The end of summer is near, but it's bounty is still upon us.  Choose any stone fruit that is available and ripe and enjoy this fun play on the traditional caprese salad.