Creamy Butternut Sage Pasta Sauce

One of my favorite things about Autumn is squash. In all forms. So I look for any excuse to use it in my meals, much to the annoyance of my husband (not a squash fan). Roasted? Yes. Pureed? Yes. Sauce? Heck yaaaaas. Around this time of year, it’s really common to see grocers coming out…

Pecan Pie Bites

I’m currently in week 18 of my pregnancy and Day 4 of a Whole30. Whole30 during pregnancy?! I must be crazy. Actually, since I’ve slid into my second trimester, I’ve found myself wanting to feel more inspired with my meal prep and less bogged down by all the foods I’ve been indulging but have been…

Chocolate Orange Scones

If flavors could get married, I would stand up as a witness to the Chocolate and Orange nuptials. They’re such a classy pair, don’t you think!? One of my favorite resources for flavor pairing is The Flavor Thesaurus. It would make an amazing addition to any kitchen or a gift for the serious cooks in…

Vegan Cheese Dip

I feel a rant coming on so I’m going to begin by lightening the mood. Take a look at my adorable dog and his new giant rope! Okay. Now that that’s out-of-the-way… I’ve gotta be honest, the stuff in the “dairy-free” cheese section of the natural foods stores reeeeeaaaallly freaks me out. So many INGREDIENTS. Why my…

Three-Potato and Bacon Salad

This week, my clients received the benefit of my recent exploration of a local eatery. What a difficult self-imposed assignment… to be searching out delicious meals through out San Diego’s endless food scene. (ummm… kidding). This salad was born in my new favorite MEATery, Sausage and Meat in the North Park/Hillcrest/University Heights area of San Diego. They have…

Spicy Shaved Brussels and Yams

I have good news and bad news. Bad news first. Trader Joe’s discontinued Cashew Meal. As a former employee, I am well acquainted with the overly dramatic reactions of customers who discover that their “favorite item” has been “let go”. While I am bummed that now I have to find a new source for my…

Ginger Butternut Squash Tart

If you are reading from a place that isn’t 99 degrees, then I suggest you make this dessert. For those of you residing in Southern California; Bake at your own risk. I had an itch to create a sweet treat with butternut squash and lots of fresh ginger. The result was an (almost) pumpkin pie. Seriously….

Turkey Meat Sauce over Zucchini Noodles

I’ve been thinking (I know… dangerous, right?). It seems this whole “paleo thing” is catching on with the population at large. Well, at least here in sunny Southern California.  It may not be a household word, but the movement has come a loooong way from 4 years ago (when I first joined the cave people). I remember…

Sunflower Macadamia Nut Butter

My latest obsession. Sunflower Seeds. I’ve discovered a delightful alternative to almond butter and it’s taken over my life. Sunflower Seeds make GREAT nut butter! They are a great source of Vitamin E and a decent source of magnesium. Vitamin E: Fat soluble antioxidant Prevents free-radicals from oxidizing cholesterol, good for the heart. A 1/4…