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July 9, 2015
At Home with Friends

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Spicy Walnut, Beet & Carrot Salad

This menu has so many assertive flavors that I wanted a salad that was equally assertive and also fresh and delicious. This salad is really all about the dressing. My tasters were asking if they could just eat it right out of the bowl on crackers. The flavors are a bit exotic and seductive. Maybe […]

June 22, 2015
At Home with Friends

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Videos: Antipasto Platter

The first time I created one of my Antipasto Platters my guests thought it had been catered by an Italian deli. This is one of my go-to appetizers that pleases everyone. You can alter the ingredients based on what’s in season, what’s in your pantry and your guests’ taste. For the detailed recipe, go to: […]

June 17, 2015
At Home with Friends

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Roasted Vegetable Salad with Hazelnut Vinaigrette

This is a composed salad. It looks like a work of art, Dutch Old Masters, when you present it; but then when the guests dive in, it morphs into a Jackson Pollock: a mess of colors and shapes. A composed salad can include anything. I choose seasonal ingredients, keeping in mind what I know my […]

February 23, 2015
At Home with Friends

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Quinoa Salad with Roasted Vegetables

Quinoa is a super food. I could give you all the latest nutritional facts or just tell you it is a staple in my kitchen because I can use it multiple ways. It’s loaded with nutrients and it’s gluten free. If you’re trying to get your friends and family to eat it, don’t tell them […]

July 11, 2014
At Home with Friends

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Watermelon Tomato Salad

The idea for Watermelon Tomato Salad came from my adopted daughter Vera. She had eaten a watermelon salad at one of her favorite restaurants in Los Angeles. She raved about it and brought me one to sample. It was delicious but I had an idea of how to make it even tastier.  Vera volunteered to […]