A great vacation in Placencia, Belize There were so many things that made me fall in love with the village of Placencia – a vibrant, yet somewhat hidden gem situated at the bottom of this 16 mile long peninsula in southern Belize. From dockside dinners of fresh jackfish (above), beautiful morning rains, the hot afternoon sun, the cultural […]
March 23, 2016
Whew, the last few weeks seem like a whirlwind. Between the Belize trip, last week’s visit to California for Expo West (imagine a convention center with all the brands situated in Whole Foods launching their new products – in the tune of 77,000 people), and lots of evening activities, I’m a bit wiped. I also […]

March 19, 2016
Making Pickled Kumquats These tart, punchy pickles rely on vinegar, organic cane sugar, and the acidity of the kumquat for a long shelf life. In this recipe, pink peppercorns are added for subtle spice and depth of flavor, along with ginger. The beauty of kumquats is you can eat their thin skin too, which softens even […]

March 15, 2016
This oven roasted paleo salmon recipe is a healthy dinner idea, served with spaghetti squash and leeks. To be spontaneous is almost a skill. It’s easier to say, “we should” or “there’s not enough time” or “that costs a lot of money”. For some people it comes natural and creates a thrill inside, for others […]

Tags: Squash
March 9, 2016
this … When a Minnesotan schedules something in winter, they know it comes with the risk of snow impeding plans. I had been looking forward to spending a day cooking and gabbing (a Midwest term for a mix of talking and laughing) with my sweet friend Brenda of A Farmgirl’s Dabble. Our largest snowfall came […]

Tags: White Beans
March 3, 2016
History says that potatoes are a poor man’s food, but even in their simplest form, I believe they’re the true definition of comfort – regardless of how much is in your bank account . They can be made a thousand different ways, across hundreds of cultures, and with slight twists that turn them into luxury. As […]

Tags: Potatoes
February 28, 2016
As many of you know, I am currently in Belize vacationing and also exploring the amazing Mayan culture nestled in the green hills of Placencia and the Toledo district. Yesterday I spent the day learning how to make chocolate with Juan of Ixcacao Chocolate, and my guide Lyra Spang of Taste Belize Tours who grew up […]

Tags: Chocolate
February 19, 2016
this … I’m struggling to write this post today, day-dreaming of love as Valentine’s Day is near, and a getaway to Belize with my beau on Monday. A much needed vacation for just the two of us, and I can’t wait to explore and wander with him. With the anticipation, this Sparkling Fruit Salad with Avocado has […]

February 13, 2016
Here’s how to cut and segment a grapefruit in 3 easy steps! In a matter of minutes you’ll have beautifully segmented slices of grapefruit ready to enjoy in salads, breakfast bowls and more. Let’s do it. Grapefruit lifts my spirits in the depths of winter. The vibrant color, juicy fruit, and intense aromatics lifts my […]

February 10, 2016
this … A few weeks ago, life took me to the humble, cozy town of Calistoga, snuggled into the hills of Napa Valley — wine heaven. Instead of tasting my way through all the vineyards, I was there to learn and celebrate the International Year of Pulses! Pulses are more commonly known in the United States as dry […]

February 5, 2016
What is Fermentation? Bubbles, bacteria, probiotics, enzymes & minerals …… Pickles, sauerkraut, kombucha, kefir, kvass……… Natural fermentation is quite a fascinating process, relying on just salt and water to make things literally come alive, turning your favorite fruits and vegetables into even healthier and delicious bites. One of the ways it’s different than what we think of […]

January 30, 2016
this … What is it about pizza that just says love? I don’t think I’ve ever met a person who doesn’t like a little (or a lot) of either. Sharing something so unfussy, casual, and comforting just feels good. The first fall that Brian and I were dating, we spent two months in North Carolina […]

Tags: Cheese
January 27, 2016