Tag: Sides

Summer Succotash

Summer Succotash

Succotash is a hearty and affordable combination of primarily corn and beans (usually lima beans) with origins credited to early Native Americans. Regional and seasonal variations have developed with additions of peppers, tomatoes, and other vegetables. A little bacon or ham never hurt either!

BBQ’s Best Friend: Coleslaw

BBQ’s Best Friend: Coleslaw

I am a firm believer that coleslaw is BBQ’s best friend. No offense to baked beans, but coleslaw is that fresh, healthy(ish), light accompaniment that turns a hot dog, burger, or pulled-pork sandwich into a deliciously sloppy meal and gives leftovers new life. Have you 

Baked 4-Bean Casserole

Baked 4-Bean Casserole

Baked bean casserole goes pro with a variety of beans as well as a molasses and cider vinegar sauce. This recipe is a crowd pleaser for your next picnic or potluck.

Prosciutto-Wrapped Grilled Asparagus 

Prosciutto-Wrapped Grilled Asparagus 

Two ingredients and a grill … that’s my recipe for this springtime favorite: Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus! A few important tips are included for perfect results.

Stuffed Mushrooms

I wish there was a funny or enlightening story behind these mushrooms. There isn’t. Fact is, I had a package of button mushrooms in the refrigerator that were rapidly approaching a move to the trash can. They needed a bit of TLC and a flavor boost.

Cheesy Jalapeno Corn

Cheesy Jalapeno Corn

Sweet corn, spicy jalapenos and creamy cheese create a side dish that pairs prefectly with your favorite BBQ or grilled meats. Get the recipe here!

Beer Bread: In 3-2-1

Beer Bread: In 3-2-1

This is one of the very few recipes I have committed to memory. And soon, you will understand why.

Three ingredients. No kneading. So many options.

Almost-Mom’s Homemade Applesauce

It’s not hard to make applesauce, if you are using perfect apples. The reason hers is so incredible is that she uses the worst apples … those that have fallen to the ground and been bruised and need more cleaning than those picked directly off the tree. She has always been a champion for the underdog. These apples require no sugar (she may add a little if she feels it might be too tart). I have made it with her enough times to make a reasonable replica of hers. I am not quite to her level … I am not as industrious as she is. But there is always next year.

Parmesan Potato Rounds

Earlier this week I promised you a side dish recipe to go with the Balsamic-Garlic Crusted Pork Loin … the perfect complement to any main dish with Italian flavors. Of course, replacing the Italian seasoning with another spice blend will allow you to pair these potatoes with unlimited options. Think cajun … tex-mex … barbeque … ranch … mmmmmm, choices!

Food Lesson: Potatoes are graded according to size/diameter (among other things). I googled it. Google can be your saving grace in cooking dilemmas. Many, many people have the same questions, no matter how unusual. Make sure you choose a reputable site. Compare different sites. And, even better, experiment with your options. Figure out what you like best.

Welcome!

A good picnic requires only a healthy appreciation for good food and good company. It is simple and relaxing. Who you share it with may be a crowd of people, your intimate family, one special someone or even the person you know best…yourself. The purpose