Classic Eggplant Parmesan

Classic Eggplant Parmesan
Eggplant Parmesan is an Italian classic for a reason, and even those that think they don't like eggplant will be asking for seconds or thirds. In this rendition of the classic, crispy fried breadcrumb-coated slices of eggplant are layered with a rich bechamel sauce, a vibrant homemade marinara sauce, and loads of melted cheese in a baked casserole dish, all topped off with fresh basil. It is reminiscent of a rich and elegant lasagna, but without the heaviness despite the generous helping of freshly shredded mozzarella and Parmesan. It's a good thing that it makes a lot, because my husband and best friend would have made short work of a small dish.
Read this recipe »

Kale Salad with Basil Pesto Dressing

Kale Salad with Basil Pesto Dressing
A star among leafy greens, kale is part of the cruciferous family (which includes cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, and turnip). Packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as other nutrients like fiber, manganese, and folate, you can't go wrong with this immune-boosting vegetable. Though it features well in soups and stews and with other cooked vegetables, its rich, dense texture makes it an especially appealing choice for hearty salads. Dressed with a basil sunflower seed pesto, and mixed up with some cherry tomatoes, red onion and red pepper strips, this refreshing and filling salad is satisfying enough to feature in its own right, and it dresses up any meal as a shining side.
Read this recipe »

Pumpkin Scones

Pumpkin Scones
This is an old recipe that I revisted in time for pumpkin season. And because I made these scones back in 2008, I had forgotten just how good they are! With just a hint of sweetness from some coconut sugar, and flavoured with pumpkin pie spices, they are a fine choice to serve as a snack but also a fine dinner accompainment. I served them with my favorite Curried Indian Vegetable Soup for an especially warming dining experience. When I made them the first time, they featured alongside a Hearty Italian Bean and Pasta Soup.
Pumpkin Scones
Dense, but flaky and moist, these are certainly worth revisiting and remembering, and a fine use of frozen or canned pumpkin puree when the pumpkin season is over.

Read this recipe »

Baked Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal

Baked Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal
Years ago I used to frequently make baked oatmeal for a special breakfast—ridiculously easy to make and a nourishing way to start the day, baked oatmeal is creamy and pudding-like, delicious, and usually make enough to last a few breakfasts. Somehow I realized that it's been a long time since I've made one, but the sight of grocery bins filled with fresh ripe local fall apples got me thinking about the warm and inviting fragrance of baked apples and spices, and it was a short jump from that thought to this lovely and warming breakfast pudding.
Read this recipe »