Roasted Herb Shrimp Skewers

There’s something wonderfully elegant about serving meat on a stick. In this case, plump and juicy shrimp are the stars of the show. My preferred method for perfectly cooked shrimp every time is by tossing them in a bit of olive oil, salt and pepper. A quick roast in the oven helps to bring out [...]

Homemade Mozzarella Pinwheels with Sundried Tomatoes & Fresh Basil

It was nearly a year ago when I was hovering over a stove with 10 other students. We all had one goal in mind…to learn the art of fresh mozzarella making. Ever since that faithful day, I’ve enjoyed serving the glorious white cheese for dinner parties. Explaining the preparation process is a wonderful conversation starter. [...]

Foodbuzz 24X24: An Intimate Celebration of Italian Flavor

Pittsburgh’s historic Strip District Market was alive with the energy of spring as I wove between the hoards of strollers and walkers to reach my favorite shops. I was a man on a mission to find the best ingredients for a dinner party I was hosting later in the evening. The clock was ticking and [...]

Sautéed Shrimp with Bulgur Wheat

“Easy” has become one of my most favorite four letter words these days. But, easy doesn’t have to mean boring, mundane or ordinary. In this case, it’s unique and packed with flavor. I was actually inspired to experiment with bulgur wheat when a coworker was using his French press coffee maker to cook the tiny [...]

Pan Fried Shrimp and Pork Potstickers

I was eating sushi and potstickers before they were chic enough to be served at baseball games.  Thanks to my college friends, Nicole and Rodel, I have many fond memories of us scraping together a few bucks for an Asian meal fit for…well…umm….college students. Imagine pulling out a hand-me-down frying pan with enough dents to [...]

Shrimp Cocktail Shots

I was involved in the world of catering throughout most of my college career.  After serving what seemed like thousands of events those long four years, I learned a simple philosophy that still works today.  Sometimes, it’s not about what you cook, but how you present it.  Don’t get me wrong, I love spending hours [...]

Turkey, Shrimp and Sausage Jambalaya

This morning I was greeted with the final container of leftover turkey as I grabbed some milk for breakfast.  I could see it sitting there in the glistening refrigerator light.  Its soft cries begging me to take it out of its misery and just finish it off. I knew there was no way I could [...]

Sautéed Shrimp and Corn

I recently moved from Chicago to Pittsburgh for a new job and new adventures.  I lived in Chicago for four years and loved every minute of it.  Chicago will be sadly missed, but I’m looking forward to seeing what Pittsburgh has to offer.  The most immediate change has been the much lower cost of living! [...]