Life in Dishes

Meat and potatoes are always a good combination. Shepherd’s pie was one of my absolute favorite dishes as a child. I’d stalk my mother in the kitchen whenever she made one. I remember staring through the foggy glass window of the oven door. “Is it ready yet?” “Why can’t we eat it now?” The components are fully cooked when it goes into the oven, so I couldn’t understand why she made me wait to dig in. This is a pretty simple meal that will satisfy children and adults. And you can make any combination of meat and vegetable you prefer (or leave the veggies out altogether). I like to make mine…

I’ve always loved tomatoes and that’s no exaggeration. According to my mother, I’ve been craving them since I was in her womb. So when my friend Gretchen told me about a recipe that requires a hearty helping of diced tomatoes, there was no doubt that I’d try it. Her excited description hinted at the gloriousness, but I had no idea, they’d be so good. I couldn’t remember all of the details/ingredients she told me but I got the gist, and that’s usually all I need. These meatballs are moist, flavorful and fabulous. They melt in your mouth. I made some for my cooking club and the women were moaning and shaking their heads. “Ooooh, these…