If you live near the Santa Ynez Valley in Santa Barbara’s wine country, then you’ve heard of Buttonwood Farm & Vineyard‘s peaches. As you drive up Alamo Pintado between the charming towns of Los Olivos and Solvang (where we’re known for both wine tasting and Danish kitsch) you can’t miss the sign on the side …
It’s summer, so I’m on a Sangria kick. I developed these Sangria recipes while living and working on a micro-farm in Santa Barbara County; it was more work than I thought it would be! Sangria helped me keep it together: some days you just need a light, fruity, slightly sweet (or dry and zingy) pitcher …
There is actually something more delicious than cold, ripe watermelon in the heat of summer, and it’s grilled watermelon! Chef Robert Perez of The Black Sheep in Santa Barbara sears watermelon, caramelizing it for this summer salad. And it’s more delicious.
You may remember from previous posts that I love a little herb in my desserts – well, I also love a little herb in my drinks. Especially basil. And cilantro (in my wine “Bloody Mary” sangria). And rosemary (in my strawberry ice cream)…ok I love them all. Give me a fennel-infused Bloody Mary with a …
Summer on the Central Coast means grilling in your own backyard! If you’re keeping it healthy, here are 2 main dishes for the grill that keep it lighter. So invite some friends over, fire up the grill and chill some drinks…it’s going to be a great weekend! First up, burgers. I love burgers, but eating …
What’s the one ingredient that can make every one of your backyard BBQ dishes shine? That will kick up the flavors and make everyone come back for more?? Bacon, that’s what. 1. Figs wrapped in bacon with balsamic glaze. For an amazing starter, take some fresh figs and wrap them with bacon. Bake in the oven …
I know the first the day of Autumn has officially come and gone, but the weather around here hasn’t gotten the message. It’s still unseasonably hot and sticky, and the garden is still producing summer vegetables like crazy. I’ve been craving a fresh and simple breakfast lately, and dreaming of fruit tarts. Berries have one …
I had just spent some time in Spain, Basque country to be exact, where I’d eaten so much amazing seafood. Octopus charcoal-grilled or swimming in fragrant broth, fish caught that day then wood-oven fired with wine and garlic and zesty, salty sardines to start every meal. When I returned, I decided to make this Grilled …
I love healthy smoothies. I don’t know if you’ve noticed, but I’ve been obsessed with mixing up green concoctions for fruit smoothies and margaritas! But, creamy, green smoothies are one of the best ways to drink your greens. They are my favorite thing to drink on a warm summer morning, and also just after a run. …
