Now This Is Shrimp Done Right!

I have found a great way to cook shrimp! Grill 'em all the way. They were marinated in terriyaki, lemon, garlic, and orange. Then grilled over charcoals for about 7-8 minutes. Absolute perfection. They were flavorful and tender. And the pineapple was a perfect compliment. After a great dinner, I had an emotional melt down, whether or not I was actually on the right path, Culinary School. I guess only time will tell. Here goes nothin'!

Christmas Time Bakin'

Last Christmas I made these apple turnovers for my family. I just love to bake and try new desserts. Crunchy granny smith apples, orange juice and zest, spices, and a little flour made up the filling. The recipe called for dried cherries, but I decided to leave them out. Puff Pastry made it super easy. Although they were nice and crisp and flaky when I first pulled them out the oven, this dessert does not travel well. They were soft, and just not the most desirable texture. This dessert is perfect for a dinner party, maybe served with vanilla ice cream, but not the best for an out-of-towner. If anyone has a good on-the-road dessert for Christmas time, send them my way.

Shrimp???

Shrimp. I'm still trying to figure them out. I sauteed them in a little olive oil and butter, salt, pepper, and parsley. I added a little white wine at the end. They were served with steamed spinach and egg noodles. The dish looked pretty but it was mediocre. I think I overdid the shrimp, they were slightly tough and chewy. How long should you cook shrimp anyway? If anyone has a good shrimp recipe, do share!

Southern Simplicity

I'm not one to brag, but this is as close to perfection as I ever want to get. This was a meal of firsts. Never having had full reign of the grill, this was quite a new experience for me. I first did a dry rub on the chicken thighs, then a citrus marinade. After hang'n out for five hours, I grilled it up, without burning the house down, at that. The coleslaw was too simple: cabbage, carrots, red onion, with a spicy mustard dressing. And the sweet potato fries were just scrumptious. A light bath in olive oil, salt, pepper, and nutmeg baked in the oven, and YUM! What a great evening spent with family.