Red Wine-Roasted Rhubarb & Strawberry Shortcake for Mother's Day

Wine-Roasted Rhubarb & Strawberry Shortcake

I recently returned from a wine-soaked weekend holiday in Naramata, BC. For those who are unfamiliar with this beautiful wine region, Naramata is perched just northeast of Penticton, overlooking the shores of Okanagan Lake. Dotted among the winding country roads are over twenty wineries, each with a lovely setting and tasty wines, of course. I came home with over a case of unique vintages; some to enjoy now, and some to save for special occasions. One bottle in particular stood out as a recipe-friendly red — a 2010 Montage from La Frenz Winery. This robust red is a blend of Shiraz, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, with notes of dark fruit, plum, cherries with a vanilla finish. — perfect for making this Red Wine-Roasted Rhubarb and Strawberry Shortcake!

Homemade Cheez-Its

or, Confessions of a Cracker Addict!

Homemade cheddary squares of addictive goodness. Betcha can't eat just one!

I have a confession to make. I am addicted to crackers. It’s my go-to junk food. It’s what I reach for instead of popcorn when watching a movie at home (in the theatre, too. Shhh! Don’t tell). My all-time favourite crackers are the tiny, orange, squares of cheddar-y goodness. They are like crack...ers. You know the ones I mean! I can easily inhale a whole box in one sitting. Afterwards, of course, there is the guilt that sets in. How many unpronounceable chemicals did I just consume? Is there an alternative where I know exactly what I am scarfing down? You know me — I didn’t stop looking until I found it. And I did.

Paska: A Traditional Easter Bread

Sweet, moist Paska bread!

I remember, as a young girl, visiting my Mennonite Grandma and Grandpa often in their tiny shoebox apartment. Despite the lack of space, their home was always warm and inviting and full of comforting aromas. There was always something good to eat when we visited.

Chewy Lemon Crinkle Cookies

Bright, chewy little bites of lemon goodness!

Winters around here are grey. Dull and grey. The seemingly endless greyscale days, desaturated and devoid of colour, make me crave bright colours, bold flavours and loud music. Lucky for us, the fruit in season this time of year is citrus! Navel oranges, heavy with sweet promise, are at their very best. Lemons and limes are plentiful and perfectly juicy.