Hello, summer! It’s hot out, and we are grilling a good three to four times a week in my home. I'm excited to share my recipe for grilled southwestern pork chops with mango peach salsa. I love grilling fruit in the summertime, and it pairs perfectly with pork chops. This is definitely a twist on the classic pork chops and applesauce but grilled, and there's no applesauce … [Read more...]
Katie’s Cucina: Cajun Shrimp and Andouille Skillet Dinner
I hope everyone enjoyed my meal planning 101 article last month. I’ve received a lot of comments from people who enjoyed learning how I meal plan, and most have put the tools to use. They have also requested some easy, healthier dinners that they can add to their weekly meal rotation. I love sharing a decadent chocolate dessert or a mouth-watering filet mignon recipe in ode to … [Read more...]
Katie’s Cucina: Dark Chocolate Macadamia Nut Bark
The holidays are here, whether we are ready or not. I’m sharing my super easy recipe for Dark Chocolate Macadamia Nut Bark. It’s easy to make and the perfect quick gift to give as long as you keep all the ingredients on hand. Prior to having kids, I would spend a full weekend in December baking a wide variety of sweet treats. Then I had children, and my free time went out the … [Read more...]
Katie’s Cucina – Pumpkin Buttermilk Waffles
Fall has officially arrived in the Nonahood – well, maybe not the weather so much, but pumpkin season is here. I find that most people either love or hate pumpkin. Very few times do I find someone in the middle. I’ll admit, I was a pumpkin hater for many years. Once I became pregnant with my son a few years back, I instantly became a pumpkin lover. I craved all things pumpkin, … [Read more...]
From Scratch: Life of a Cook and What It Means to Be a Chef
I might just be a glutton for punishment. The same can be said for anyone who chooses to spend 10-plus years behind the line. It is hot, labor intensive, the hours are long, and the pay is terrible. Too many times have I seen the bright-eyed, starry dreamer fresh out of culinary school walk into their first real kitchen ready to be the next Thomas Keller, and within the week … [Read more...]