Here’s a light, refreshing fruit dessert using sweet, ripe strawberries that is easily made ahead – perfect for summertime. This sorbet can also be used to top a fresh fruit salad when the weather is hot! We discovered this recipe in an old Cooking Light magazine, and it’s become a family favorite over the years....Read More
It’s officially berry season on the central coast. Cane berries such as blackberries are a Northern California summer favorite, and among the most prized members of the blackberry family is the olallieberry. Despite its large, bumpy shape, the olallieberry’s sweet and tangy taste have garnered a near-fanatical following. The olallieberry was developed by the U.S....Read More
Indulge in the sweet and refreshing taste of summer with this homemade blueberry ice cream recipe! Bursting with fresh, juicy blueberries and creamy goodness, this easy dessert is perfect for cooling off on a hot day. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a luscious treat that will impress family...Read More
A light savory and sweet couscous salad with crunchy pistachios is a perfect side dish with grilled chicken, lamb or pork or as a side dish for a barbecue or summer picnic. INGREDIENTS: 2 cups Israeli or pearl couscous 1 cup dried apricots, diced 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped 1/2 cup green onions, thinly sliced...Read More
These shortbread bars are a delightful summer dessert and perfect for picnics. INGREDIENTS: Apricot Filling: 3 cups dried apricots 3 cups water 1/2 cup granulated sugar 1 tablespoon flour 2 tablespoons butter, room temperature 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon salt Shortbread Crust and Topping: 2 cups unsalted butter, softened 1...Read More
Blackberry balsamic reduction sauce is a versatile and flavorful condiment that can enhance a variety of dishes. INGREDIENTS: 1 pint basket blackberries 4 cups balsamic vinegar METHOD: Rinse blackberries well and combine with vinegar in a non-reactive saucepan. Cook over medium-low heat for about 15 minutes or so to reduce. You can leave this pot...Read More
Discover the satisfaction of creating your very own homemade hot sauce — it may even tempt you to ditch store-bought options! The possibilities are nearly endless for various combinations of hot chilies and seasonings to concoct your perfect blend. You can use all of one kind of pepper or chili or use a combination. The...Read More
When it comes to apricots, there is one variety that stands out above the rest – the Blenheim apricot, a true California treasure. This variety gained prominence in the United States when it was introduced to California’s Santa Clara Valley in the 1880s. The region’s warm climate, ample sunshine, and well-drained soil provide ideal conditions...Read More
This fresh fruit kuchen is sort of a cross between a flan and a fruit-filled pancake. It’s not too sweet, and is delicious as a dessert or even for breakfast or brunch! If you don’t have fresh apricots, feel free to substitute sliced peaches or nectarines. For Crust: In a food processor bowl, combine: 1...Read More
INGREDIENTS: 1 loaf Francese or French bread, cubed 1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese, cut into 1/2-inch cubes 1 cup fresh blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries 12 eggs, beaten 2 cups milk 1/4 – 1/3 cup sugar, honey, agave syrup, or maple syrup 2 teaspoons vanilla 2 tablespoons butter, cut into small pieces 1 tablespoon sugar,...Read More