When it comes to entertaining during the holidays, there’s no such thing as being too prepared. Take it easy on yourself by stocking your pantry and refrigerator with a handful of essentials to ensure you’ll be ready for any event such as the annual office potluck, the ornament exchange with the girls, or the neighborhood cocktail party. Here are some ideas for what to keep on hand and a couple of recipes for quick and easy holiday hors d’oeuvres. Continue reading Sizzle Simmer Sauté Sylvania – Stock the pantry for holiday entertaining

It’s the time of year when shorter days beckon cozy, fireplace-warmed evenings, foliage proudly shows off its multi-hued attire, and brisk mornings give way to sun-rich afternoons. Autumn is here in all its glory, and I’ve whipped up a couple season-defining recipes to celebrate – sweet Pumpkin Cheesecakes with Chocolaty Cookie Crusts and savory Pumpkin Penne with Ricotta and Spinach. Both recipes call for pumpkin puree. If you have the time, go ahead and roast and puree pie pumpkins, or if not, simply use canned pumpkin. Just be sure to pick up pumpkin puree and not pumpkin pie filling. Whether you choose to enjoy your pumpkins sweet or savory, happy fall! Continue reading The sweet and savory sides of pumpkin

It’s officially fall, y’all, and there is nothing sweeter to help welcome the change of seasons than picking apples from a local orchard and then baking them into a scrumptious dessert. Served warm, cold, or à la mode, apples just have a way of making everyone smile. If you’re looking for something to bake other than a traditional apple pie, try sweet-tart Apple Crumble or decadent Salted Caramel Apple Galette. Whichever you choose, don’t forget to top it with a heaping scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. Continue reading Sizzle Simmer Sauté Sylvania – Appley ever after