We had a gorgeous 75 degrees sunny, Carolina blue sky day in Charlotte today. That alone begged me to get outside rather than spending time in my favorite place, the kitchen, But the reality is that it is December and a time of year during which more people than ever are sick, overwhelmingly busy, and [...]

(Polenta cakes served with goat cheese, roasted veggies and hot sauce.) Polenta, which originated in Europe, is similar to grits as both are made from stoneground corn. The type of corn for each varies as does the coarser texture of the cornmeal used to make polenta. I consider polenta to be a great vessel for [...]

This is my special autumn appetizer and an unexpected twist on the classic bruschetta. Using the seasonal butternut squash, a trilogy of fresh herbs, and some light and bright ricotta, this will become a fall favorite of everyone. Dealing with fresh herbs doesn’t have to be a tedious process. Laying the sprigs right on vegetables [...]