Parmesan Rosemary Breadsticks

Brent and I had an agreement to only spend $30 on two or more gifts this Christmas. It goes without saying that it was a challenge to find the perfect gifts on such a budget. But I pushed through and found what I wanted to give.
While opening our presents, Brent pulled out a huge wrapped [...]

Dinner Rolls

I don’t make bread from scratch very often, but there are times when I crave the feeling of warm dough between my fingers. Fresh baked bread is a perfect way to add instant comfort to any home as the heavenly aroma from the oven glades through the house.
With Thanksgiving just around the corner, I thought [...]

8 Football Game Day Recipe Ideas

The trees bordering my backyard have turned from deep greens to rich shades of fiery red, yellow, and gold. Clearly fall is upon us in Pittsburgh and I’m trying to take advantage of the last droplets of sunshine by writing on my back patio. Sophie is following my lead by doing laps and getting dirty [...]

Lemon Bars

The other day I was reviewing my calendar when I realized November was just around the corner. Which means I become a baking machine to test new recipe ideas in time for the fast approaching holiday season.
My goal this year is to come up with even more original recipes that not only satisfy the taste [...]

Tips for Creating the Perfect Antipasti Platter

What Tuscan meal would be complete without a platter of meats, cheeses and roasted vegetables? There was no set recipe when it came to creating a perfect antipasti platter for my Party on the Porch. It just took a little creativity, a flair for styling and a love of great flavor. Here are a few [...]

My Most Favorite Chicago Restaurants

I had the privilege of living and working in the heart of Chicago for five years.  This city offers the incredible energy of a major city, combined with a melting pot of cultures and flavors through its diverse network of neighborhoods.  I have since moved to Pittsburgh, but I still get asked from time-to-time my [...]