The Cook’s Kitchen

About a week before Easter, I was driving through my supermarket parking lot, when I saw something that literally made me slam on my brakes. A new chocolate shop had opened up, practically in my own backyard! Forget the supermarket! I pulled into the closest parking space and headed inside.
The name of […]

I know that this is going to qualify me as a bona fide nerd, but I have to confess it. I enjoy grocery shopping. I do. I really do! I love wandering up and down the aisles, imagining all of the mouthwatering dishes I can make, while loading up my cart […]

The other day, I was shopping at Williams-Sonoma, looking for a heart-shaped cake pan. Surprisingly, I didn’t find one. What I did find, was an interesting-looking product called Sprinkles Cupcake Mix. I had seen these mixes in the store before, but the flavors never called out to me, so I just passed […]

 
Winding down at the end of a hectic week doesn’t have to mean settling for take-out in a cardboard container.  Instead, treat yourself to this ridiculously simple, yet luxuriously elegant dish.  Go on.  You’re worth it!
Smoky Seared Sea Scallops
1 lb. “dry” sea scallops*
3 tbsp butter
1 1/2 tsp sea salt salt
1 tsp ground black pepper
1 […]

 
This is a hearty main dish that is both quick and easy to prepare. Also, its ingredients are very forgiving, and it can be modified to suit almost anyone’s dietary parameters. Vegetarian? Switch out the sausage and chicken broth for white beans and vegetable broth. Gluten-free? Use rice, spelt or one of the other many […]