Mary Anne here. My “significant other,” Michael, knows his way around a kitchen. When we first started dating, he actually tried to boss me around, certain that I was inept in his domain. While this preposterous notion tickled me to no end, in truth, he really is quite an accomplished home-cook and, on those nights[…]
Caribbean-Style Coconut Curry
Mariel here. A few weeks ago, I had the privilege of spending a few blissful days in Belize. While technically on assignment – just another cross I must bear as a freelance writer – I managed to thoroughly enjoy myself in spite of the balmy 85-degree weather, the sparkling sunshine and the azure bathwater lapping[…]
Linguine with Spicy Red Clam Sauce
Mariel here. While my mom steered clear of a set weekly menu when I was a kid, Linguine with Clam Sauce (courtesy of Progresso) was definitely part of the regular rotation. Always one of my faves, I decided to try my hand at an Italian-style red clam sauce since we only dined on white clams[…]
Cornmeal Crusted Cod with Pecans and Coconut
Mary Anne here. While taking stock of my pantry and fridge last weekend, I realized I have an abundance of baking products…and unfortunately, a growing waistline to match! Post-holiday dieting is as much a tradition as the festive meals themselves, but creating appetizing dinners that are both cheap and calorie-conscious can be a challenge…. I’ll[…]
Crab and Corn Soup
Mariel here. I’ve noticed a trend recently on our site: my mom and I seem to be having a small love affair with soup. Never one to forgo a fad, I decided to add to our online arsenal and post my mother’s super delicious crab soup, even though it’s not the most traditional winter dish.[…]
Roasted Salmon on a Bed of Leeks
Mary Anne here. Two weeks ago, I created a pasta recipe using leeks, but when I purchased them I had to buy the “bunch” and had two leftover. Given my mantra of “let no food go uneaten,” I decided to create a new recipe based on the extra leeks. I love fish – Salmon in[…]
Soy-Marinated Chinese-Style Tilapia with Fresh Ginger and Scallions
Mariel here. I’ve never been a huge fan of Chinese takeout. Too greasy, too slick, feels too much like lead in my stomach. However, that changed when I lived in Hong Kong for a year. Having skipped good old NYC in favor of the exotic Orient, it was time to bone up on the many[…]
Risotto with Shrimp and Zucchini
Mariel here. It’s taken me a little longer than I’d like to cobble together my first Feast-worthy recipe, but I found one that’s up to snuff. I present (healthy!) Risotto with Shrimp and Zucchini. I found the original recipe while cruising SELF ‘s website. I have to say, they do a fantastic job creating healthy[…]
Japanese Miso Cod
Mary Anne here. My daughter loves Japanese food, particularly Miso Cod. She asked me recently if I could create this special dish on the cheap, since it’s pretty pricey when served in a restaurant. Given the $25 price tag, it doesn’t quite fit the budget these days. My research revealed that there are few variations[…]
Smoked Salmon with Dill Sauce
Smoked Salmon with Dill Sauce Serves 12 or more and recipe is easily halved Ingredients: 1 lb. Norwegian smoked salmon, pre-sliced – $17.98 Thin sliced Pumpernickel bread; cut into rounds (three per slice) with a small cookie cutter (I use a heart shape) – $2.99 Sweet butter, softened – from stock Sprigs of fresh dill for[…]
Fried Rice with Shrimp and Pancetta
Serves 6 Mary Anne here. This reheats beautifully for leftovers, although my host scarfed it down before anyone else could! Ingredients: 3 Tablespoons Peanut oil, divided – $4.49 3 large eggs, lightly beaten – from stock 1/3 lb. Pancetta, trimmed and diced (from one chunk) – $3.60 1 cup scallions, diced (including green tops) – $.45 *Plus 1 or 2 extra[…]
Curried Shrimp Puffs
Mary Anne here. These delicate sandwiches look like you spent hours slaving over them, but in reality, the pastry is one of the simplest to execute. Stash this one as a master recipe for desserts as well. Use the “puffs” portion of the recipe along with a pastry bag to create Cream Puffs or Éclairs[…]
Smoked Salmon with Wasabi Aioli
Mary Anne here. Wasabi Mustard is a relatively new product on the market, though I found Stonewall Kitchen makes a great one that can be ordered online. If you can’t find one in your local grocery store, simply combine Wasabi powder with white vinegar (rather than water), according to package specifications, to produce 2 Tablespoons. […]
Crab Cakes with Jalapeno Aioli
Mary Anne here. Fluffy and light, I like to pack my crab cakes full of crab, not cake. My kids are definitely biased, but they all agree that this is one of their favorite recipes. This recipe pairs beautifully with Mango Salsa or Mariel’s Sweet Pepper Pineapple Relish. Crab Cakes with Jalapeno Aioli Serves 8[…]