A chronicle of my life in recipes. I love to cook, but more importantly I love to eat. The food you cook and eat tells a story of where you were raised and the path you have traveled. This is my story . . .

Saturday, August 21, 2010

WOW


I know it has been a very long time since my last wine post. Technically it is supposed to be wine of the week, but I knew it would turn into more of a wine of the month at best. I will try and do better, note to self drink more wine each week! Well, I hope it was worth the wait! I found a terrific new everyday red that is wonderfully dry and oh so drinkable. Kitchen Sink Red Table wine, has received glowing reviews. It may be a little bit sharp and tanniny(if that is even a word) for some, but I love it with a nice pasta dinner. I think Beep and I bought this one at Whole Foods for around 10 dollars. I love it! This California blend has a slight blackberry, oak and raisin finish but not very full bodied. Just a good everyday table wine.

Wednesday, August 4, 2010

Watermelon Martini

This summer my garden went wild with viney fruits and vegetables. I grew so many watermelons that I was forced to get creative. This is a fun appetizer or dessert, just something a little different!


INGREDIENTS:
1/2 C Water
1/2 C Granulated Sugar
3 Basil leaves
4-5 Spearmint leaves
1/2 C Vodka
Watermelon, cubed and chilled

PREPARATION:
Heat water, sugar, basil and mint in a small sauce pan over medium heat. Bring to a simmer and cook until sugar is completely dissolved. Set aside and allow to cool. Stir in vodka and place syrup mixture in the freezer to chill. Meanwhile, cube watermelon and chill martini glasses. To serve, place watermelon cubes in chilled glasses and pour syrup over the fruit. Garnish with mint and basil.

Sunday, August 1, 2010

My FIRST Watermelon


WOW! I was so surprised when taking the dogs out Saturday morning. I thought it might be a good idea to check the garden. There had not been a lot of veggies produced in the last few weeks, but we had a good amount of rain in Dallas the last few days, so I thought maybe, finally, I would find something. Boy, did I hit the jackpot! There was a suspicious looking group of leaves in the planter by the pool, I decided to target this spot. I carefully stepped in between the vines, taking care not to crush any of the delicate plants. I swept back the grouping of large leaves to find the watermelon resting on the ground. Like a proud parent I cradled it to the patio to rest in the morning sun and ripen to a lovelier shade of green.
I haven't cut it yet, but will post a recipe and picture when I do, maybe a minted vodka infused fruit would be fun. I suppose I could be a good mom and slice some for the kids too.