March 13th, 2023

These are my very favorite recipes! They're originals unless I've given credit to the creators, and they're all super easy with instructions simple enough for even the novice chef. So when you're feeling adventurous in your kitchen and want a bit of fun, give 'em a try and if you want, let me know what you think.

Barbequed Beans to Die For ... From my cousin Deb in St. Paul, Minnesota. These beans are perfect with hot dogs and hamburgers, even better with barbequed chicken and ribs. This is the ONLY thing anyone ever asks me to bring to a pot luck or backyard barbeque. One taste and no one ever cares what else is for dinner.

Chocolate Bread Pudding ... I experimented with my mom's bread pudding recipe and this was the final outcome. Mom liked bread pudding for breakfast but this one's definitely a dessert. Decadent!

Coconut Shrimp ... From my friend Leon Dienes, the realtor who sold my dad's house for me in San Diego. He sends recipe cards to his clients as a way of keeping in touch. These coconut shrimp were an instant hit the first time I made them and this is the first recipe that I've ever added to my website after having made it only once.

Finger Lickin' Barbequed Ribs ... From my friends and wish-they-were-still-neighbors Mike and Patty. I actually think the recipe was Mike's mom's from when she lived in Hawaii. Whatever, they're the best ribs you'll ever eat.

French Toast Casserole ... If I had to pick my very favorite recipe, this would be it. I don't know if there's really a heaven but if there is, this is what it tastes like.

Green Chili Chicken Enchiladas ... from my daughter-in-law, Sharon. The best recipe for green chicken enchiladas I've ever come across. A great recipe for a block party or a large group of people.

Green Chili Corn Souffle ... From Donna Kilpia who was the manager of the Gatehouse B&B in Jackson, California when we stayed there in 1991. This is yummy recipe for Sunday morning breakfast or brunch.

Julia's First Prize Trophy-Winning Firehouse Chili ... From my sister-in-law Julia who won first prize for this chili when she lived in Pennsylvania. It's killer good and when you get a craving for chili, this will be the one you'll want.

Macaroni and Cheese with Mushrooms ... A great variation on an American favorite, adapted from a recipe in Country Living Magazine. This is great side dish but hearty enough to be a main dish as well.

Mushroom Tomato Basil Rosemary Risotto ... This risotto is to die for! It's super easy, super colorful, and never fails to impress guests.

Mushy Potatoes ... From my friend Betty Ann who used to be my neighbor when we both lived in Thousand Oaks. She's one of the best cooks I've ever known. What delicious meals we used to share when we lived side by side.

Pie Crust ... My mom's pies were legendary and this is her recipe. It's easy, easy, easy and guaranteed foolproof. There's no reason to intimidated by making your own pie crust. Try this recipe and you'll see.

Spanish Rice ... A super yummy recipe from my sister Carol and this one's my favorite. Not your typical Spanish Rice, I promise. Serve immediately or it won't make it to the table.

Strawberry Pretzel Dessert ... From Margie who used to be my manicurist when I lived in Thousand Oaks. She loved food as much as I do and we often talked about food while she was doing my nails. This is an intensely flavorful dessert everyone will love.

Stuffed Mushrooms ... Everyone makes stuffed mushrooms and these take a little time but oh my gosh, they're worth the effort. Don't be alone when you make them or there won't be any left when you're done.

Tomato Crostini ... From my girlfriend Sallie who changed my life with this recipe. It's by far my favorite appetizer. With all of its flavors and textures, and colors that make the most eye-catching presentation, it's simply the best. In fact, it's so good and so satisfying that we often eat this as a meal all by itself.

Tomato Pie ... This is a side dish, not a dessert, but if you like tomatoes, this will taste like dessert to you.

If you have a minute and want to warm your heart, and read how I got my start in the kitchen, cooking with my mom.