Valentine’s Day is fast approaching – any plans yet?  If not, I love this fun and easy way to spice up your dinner table.  You don’t even have to turn the oven on for this one!  Of course I’d recommend you serve it up with some Tenderloin Steaks and Fondue for Two, or maybe Red Velvet Crepes . . . if that doesn’t work out, Papa John’s has heart-shaped pizza on Valentine’s Day- that would be perfect with your Strawberry Crush!

Isn’t it great that sometimes the simplest things make for so much excitement and family fun!  For this

“This little black dress of a side dish pairs with practically anything—grilled meat, roasted chicken, sautéed vegetables. Like rice pilaf, the orzo is browned in butter before broth is added, which gives it a rich, nutty flavor.” ~Fine Cooking

Do you ever find yourself in a rice and potato rut- serving the same side dish meal after meal?   This orzo is a fun change of pace.  It’s easy enough to serve any night of the week, but rich enough for your finest dinner party.   Serve  it in place of rice with chicken and fish, and replace potatoes

What could be better than a little Cherry Buttercream Frosting to go with your Cherry Cordial Cupcakes?  I can’t think of  a better way to finish off those delicious cupcakes.  This is basically a simple buttercream frosting with a little maraschino cherry juice and almond extract added in.  It is a simple way to change the flavor.

Cherry Buttercream Frosting

Ingredients:

1 cup butter, softened

4 cups powdered sugar

4 Tbls. maraschino cherry juice

1/4 tsp. almond extract

red food coloring, optional

Directions:

Beat the butter until light and fluffy.  Add the cherry juice and almond extract.  Slowly add

It is officially time to get ready for Valentines Day. It is February 1st and so we are just two weeks away. Do have big plans? It will be an unusual Valentine’s Day at my house. My husband and I will be in two different states, neither one of us at home. So I guess we will be planning a date night for another day.

These cupcakes are a perfect Valentine’s Day treat. They would be great for any parties leading up to the big day, be sure to check back next week for a Cherry Buttercream Frosting and a

I have a deep love for salads. I love the endless combinations of flavors. This is one that I have loved for a long time.  Adding the crispy pasta to the salad is quite a suprise.  It is just the right combination of flavors and textures to make one amazing salad.  You of course can use any dressing that you like, but I have my favorite for this salad so be sure to check back tomorrow to get that recipe.

Crispy Pasta Cake with Red Pepper and Mozzarella Salad

Ingredients:

Salt, for pasta water

1 pound angel hair pasta

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