Month: June 2011

Zesty Tomato and Black Bean Salad

Zesty Tomato and Black Bean Salad

This refreshing salad is the perfect compliment to any summer meal.  Black beans, ripe tomatoes, red onions and jalapenos are tossed in a brightly flavored vinaigrette. Zesty Tomato and Black Bean Salad 1 red onion, finely chopped 1 jalapeno, seeds removed and finely diced 1 

Strawberry Lemonade Granita

Strawberry Lemonade Granita

You don’t have to have a fancy icecream maker to enjoy homemade frozen treats! I really enjoy making new things with my kids.  This idea came about when my son asked what made pink lemonade pink?  I decided that this would be a good way to 

Honey Baked Beans

Honey Baked Beans

Can you believe that I have never made baked beans before?  It was something I always relied on someone else to bring to a potlock… However,  with all of my now known food intolerances – this is something I must make myself.  So here is what I came up with.  Keeping true to my cooking aesthetic, I’ve kept this recipe simple.  Enjoy!

Honey Baked Beans

  • 1 lb small white beans, soaked overnight
  • 12 oz bacon, chopped
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 4 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon dry mustard
  • 5-6 cups water
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • salt and pepper to taste
  1. Preheat oven to 300.
  2. In a large dutch oven,  cook bacon until crisp.
  3. Add onions and cook until soft, about 4 minutes.
  4. Stir in tomato paste, dry mustard, and water.  (Start with 5 cups)
  5. Add honey.
  6. Bring mixture to a boil, cover with lid and bake for 2 hours.
  7. Check to see if there is enough water,  add more at this time if needed.  Continue to bake with the lid off for 1 more hour, until thick and beans are cooked through.
  8. Lastly, stir in the apple cider vinegar, and taste to make sure it is seasoned well with salt and pepper.  Serve warm.

What I love most about baked beans is that they can be made ahead of time and re-warmed right before serving.

Gluten Free Fresh Fruit Tart

Gluten Free Fresh Fruit Tart

Nothing says summer like a Fresh Fruit Tart! It makes a beautiful addition to any dessert spread.  Be sure to bring this festive treat to share on the 4th of July. Gluten Free Fresh Fruit Tart one fully baked Tart Shell 1/2 recipe Dairy Free 

Gluten Free Tart Shell

Gluten Free Tart Shell

If you have tried my Pie Crust, you may as well throw that recipe out.  Ok, don’t throw it out…. but consider this a quicker option. This tart shell is so tasty and much easier to prepare.  It’s a slightly sweet cookie crust that can