October 4th, 2008

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Recipe: Green pea thyme dip

Saturday, October 4th, 2008

There are two types of people: those who follow recipes exactly and those who don’t.

I don’t think I have ever followed a recipe exactly. Ever. Inevitably I change an ingredient or two or five, I swap the spices, I change the cooking method, or I change the final presentation. I view recipes as a jumping off point.

This style of cooking is intimidating to many people. I think it becomes easier the more you cook as you get comfortable.

This pea thyme dip was, typically, an adaptation. It is delicious and pretty, too.

Green Pea Thyme Dip

Adapted from Parsley, Sage, Rosemary & Thyme

2 cups peas: fresh, thawed frozen, or canned

1/2 square vegetable bullion (I love Rapunzel’s vegan version), dissolved in 1 Tbsp hot water

2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil

1/2 Tbsp dried thyme

2 Tbsp finely grated Pecorino Romano (sheep’s milk cheese)

Salt and pepper to taste

If using fresh peas, steam in a saucepan with a bit of water for 3-5 minutes or until soft. Put peas in medium bowl and add the remaining ingredients. Blend with immersion blender. Alternatively, use a food processor or traditional blender. Serve as a dip with fresh vegetables, crackers and baguette rounds.

Not Blogging All Over Myself: 1

Saturday, October 4th, 2008

There are two kinds of people: those who love blogs and those for whom blogs make them want to blog all over themselves.

I credit this description to my college mentor, John. I couldn’t have put it better myself.

I’ve been embarrassed to tell my friends that I started a blog because, well, I don’t really like saying the word “blog.”

Nonetheless, there are some great blogs out there, and when I come across a great one I will share it, whether or not it is related to the topics in this blo… in this website: Smorgasbite.

Blog That Doesn’t Make Me Want to Blog All Over Myself #1: Lovely Listing: A Collection of Poorly Chosen Photos from Real Estate Listings.

Wholesome Junk Food: If you say so

Saturday, October 4th, 2008

There are two kinds of people: those with a sweet tooth and those without.

I was blessed (or cursed, depending on your perspective) with an active and attention-seeking sweet tooth. While I enjoy many savory foods, a day rarely seems complete without at least one dessert or sugary snack. Still, being nutrition-conscious, I’m not about to reach for a donut or piece of cake every day.

Laura’s Wholesome Junk Food is sold at grocery stores and come in several mouthwatering flavors. I can vouch for the deliciousness of the oatmeal chocolate chip and lemon vanilla, and I’ve got my eye on the banana split, gingerbread, and cashew chocolate chip, which sound fabulous. The best compliment I can pay is to say that they don’t taste healthy- they really don’t.

I love how the website and packaging are forthright with the ingredients and the nutrition information. Are they as healthy as an apple? No. But are they a better bet than desserts with hydrogenated fats like a Blizzard or a slice from the Cheesecake Factory? Yes.