Maple-Cayenne Brussels Sprouts with Candied Walnuts

If you’re on the edge of liking brussels sprouts, these puppies will push you over into the happily liking camp. I love the toasty, nutty taste of roasted vegetables. Adding in some salty, sweet, and spicy to take them over the top is oh so right. To make this simple but flavorful side dish, preheat your oven to 400°F. Slice a bunch of brussels sprouts in half, toss them with olive oil, and season them with salt and pepper. Roast … Continue reading

Stella’s Adventures

Stella squeezed in a great day of fun before the temperature dropped this weekend.  The morning grass was covered with dew, and she ran with her nose down like a wheelbarrow so she could lick up water from all of the blades she passed. Her tongue was flapping like crazy. The water flicked up onto her snout, making her look like she had glittery fur. She stopped to scratch herself and bask in the early-fall sunshine. Some dogs stop to … Continue reading

Butternut Squash Hors D’Oeuvres

After making butternut squash hand pies, I knew that they would translate really well into an hors d’oeuvre. I used a mini muffin tin to turn the puff pastry into small cups and then filled the cups with squash deliciousness. What I like best about these puffs is that you can eat them with one hand. It’s always a challenge to eat hors d’oeuvres off of a plate when you have a drink in your other hand. No plates are necessary for … Continue reading