Red wine biscuits made with extra virgin olive oil. So simple and almost healthy!

Making soft pretzels is a happy diversion from anything...or nothing at all!

To my dad on his birthday: melt-in-your-mouth mocha meringues sandwiched together with espresso-laced chocolate ganache.

crushing on my antique cake breaker. what's your utensil crush?

Recharge with cappuccino biscotti

indulge in this cool dessert: oatmeal raisin cookie ice cream

James Beard's Italian feather bread -- better than store-bought Italian!

next time you're craving mozzarella cheese, why not try making it at home!!

Saffron spaghetti carbonara and Key lime cheesecake for a birthday celebration.

try something outside the box: chewy chocolate gingerbread cookies

holiday Marranitos for the children in my family

Our first Christmas together -- Peking duck, bok choy-mushroom stir fry, moo shu pancakes, plum wine sauce and Julia's chocolate souffle

an antique pie server makes a delightful Christmas gift... to myself!

pumpkin maple mousse from Fresh Taste Wisconsin cookbook

take a peek at what we've been eating (and drinking) in the past week. featured: split pea soup with ham and toasted bread croutons

herb-stuffed chicken breasts, Senegalese peanut soup, shrimp and 'shroom pizza, and Schwarzwalder Kirschtorte to cure our ills

James Beard's Pumpernickel Bread

Peach-basil-balsamic panzanella - a new twist on an old favorite

Lemon linguini and Beach Street Cajun shrimp

Roasted red and yellow peppers waiting to be canned in olive oil

Pots de Creme make a stunning birthday gift

Hmong snacks - crispy pork egg rolls and stuffed chicken wings!

New York Times CREAM CHEESE Chocolate Chip Cookies

Dutch baby times four for two