tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6308574237838232382012-01-28T10:09:48.743-08:00exploring good food, one dish at a timeMari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.comBlogger7981100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-83424105272010844162012-01-27T10:22:00.000-08:002012-01-27T11:01:25.710-08:00

Yes, in my hemisphere it's winter, but I still enjoy a healthy salad ~ no matter what the weather, and this one utilizes the fruits and vegetables available to us at this time of year. The base is organic baby arugula, and the toppings are grapefruit supremes (segments without the membrane), sliced avocado ~ I like the rich buttery variety with the thick pebbly skins such as Haas.   Then a

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-7555688513532277202012-01-26T11:33:00.000-08:002012-01-26T14:15:09.103-08:00

I was pleased to see that a version of very low fat "Lighter Ranch Dip" appears in the current edition of "Everyday Food" magazine because I practically gag on the synthetic taste of the commercial low-fat Ranch Dressing.  I made the EF recipe, and although it is simple to make and healthy it seemed to be lacking flavor, and understandably so ~ that version is seasoned with only thyme leaves,

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-63869096540485154902012-01-25T14:55:00.000-08:002012-01-26T09:51:10.035-08:00

During my quest to shed a few pounds, I almost resigned myself to the frozen food aisle ~ you know; Lean Cuisine, Smart Ones, Weight Watchers, etc.  But I couldn't see myself eating that way long term ~ at all. To me those meals are "okay" in a pinch, but I have never been very satisfied with the flavor or seasonings used in most of them. The tomato based sauces always taste cloyingly sweet,

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-32779904734119982372012-01-24T16:25:00.000-08:002012-01-26T09:52:04.657-08:00

Antipasto Chicken Yes, there is a grilled chicken breast under there ~ can you see it? While looking for interesting & healthy recipes for boneless, skinless chicken breasts I came across this one on the Food Network website. I changed it a bit by grilling the chicken rather than cooking it in a skillet, I also changed up the ingredients in the antipasto relish topping; and instead of cooking

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-70266379313367470102012-01-21T12:00:00.000-08:002012-01-24T20:56:51.335-08:00

I'm not much into New Year's resolutions ~  And although January is speeding by, the start of a new year seems to be a good a time as any to begin a change of lifestyle, yes?   Yes! Usually I avoid stepping the the bathroom scale (can you say denial?!) Yes. But with trepidation I did step up, and you know what? The numbers staring back at me weren't nearly as dreadful as I thought they might be

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-54193829213310595012012-01-17T15:55:00.000-08:002012-01-17T15:55:00.719-08:00

Feeling a little guilty after the holiday indulgences? Well, here's a delicious little treat that you can enjoy with a clear conscience ~ A perfect little nibble with your favorite beverage, and it would make a great choice for a Superbowl party, too. First a small amount of finely minced onion is sauteed with 1/4 cup pine nuts, when the onion and nuts are a deep golden color a little

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-79031127378635472642012-01-09T13:21:00.000-08:002012-01-09T13:22:22.233-08:00

It's sure not much to look at, but I had to share this recipe, it's one of the best rustic-style soups I've tasted ~ it's really chunky and full of flavor and substantial enough to serve as a meal. If you do an internet search you'll find various variations of Italian Sausage soups; this one is often described as being very similar to The Olive Garden's "Toscana" soup ~ I'm not sure about that

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-90497255075287201342011-12-31T21:30:00.000-08:002011-12-31T21:30:00.918-08:00

I'm wishing everyone a year of health, wealth, faith, peace ~  Along with abundant love to you and your loved ones. I hope in the new year you each continue to Wish, Hope and Dream. Happy New Year Friends!! xoxo ~Mari var addthis_pub = "Marisol5";

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-29618225219108950322011-12-14T11:30:00.000-08:002011-12-14T14:30:59.532-08:00

         * Joyeux Noel * Feliz Navidad * Buon Natale * God Jul * Nollaig Shona * Gelukkig Kerstfeest * 聖誕節快樂 * Veselé Vánoce *Срећан Божић * Fröhliche Weihnachten * Glædelig Jul * I hope you get the *warm fuzzies* while watching this video. Even though it's a commercial, it lifts my spirits.    :) I hope you all have very Happy Holidays! I'll be taking a short blogcation ~ and look

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-4207981276440077232011-12-09T17:52:00.000-08:002011-12-09T17:52:58.566-08:00

A redux, by request ~ Thank you friends! My friend Andrea authors one of my favorite blogs "Under a Blue Moon",  a regular feature of her blog which I particularly like is called  Friday's Favorites  in which Andrea shares  a collection of intriguing items she has found from around the web. Recently she linked to a treasure of a blog called "Baked by Rachel". Rachel shared this wonderful

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-19508717002511746492011-12-07T09:04:00.000-08:002011-12-07T09:04:51.956-08:00

2 Quart Covered Casserole by Mamma Ro . . . by random drawing is Gail @ Faithfulness Farm ! Gail, if you'll email me your mailing/shipping address I'll let the folks a Wayfair know so they can send it out to you right away. onceuponaplate [@] gmail [dot] com Thank you everyone for entering! We'll be having another giveaway in the future, so please check back! var addthis_pub = "

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-13372896255163772592011-12-02T10:28:00.000-08:002011-12-02T11:29:23.563-08:00

So popular at our house ~ I'm reposting because this popcorn is perfect for the holidays! Note: Please see Giveaway details HERE. (or click on image of casserole over on the top right column, this page.) I first learned of the basic recipe for this utterly delicious caramel popcorn from my friend Em on her blog The Repressed Pastry Chef. Em's blog was one of the very first I began

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-8969613187072882532011-12-01T09:05:00.000-08:002011-12-01T09:09:02.182-08:00

Welcome Friends, please come in and make yourselves at home. Lots of pictures, and few words this time ~ the page may take a few moments to load. So thank you for your patience. *~*~*~*~*~* ~ Giveaway ~ You'll find a link for details about our current giveaway at the bottom of this post, and also you can click the image of the covered casserole at the top right  column on this page.

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-70624630096377010562011-11-29T11:46:00.000-08:002011-12-05T12:09:04.023-08:00

2-Quart Covered Casseroleby La Vita Vera™Made in Italy! Great news!   The people at Wayfair (formerly CSN Stores) recently asked if I would like to host a giveaway for Once Upon a Plate followers ~ I jumped at the chance ~ I LOVE giveaways! If you haven't checked out Wayfair's fabulous website, you're in for a treat ~ You'll find over 4.5 million items of merchandise from over 5,000 brands

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com121tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-25440350707064707622011-11-23T18:37:00.000-08:002011-11-23T21:23:40.043-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving to all who are celebrating on Thursday! Pictures but not too much verbiage today ~ lots to do in preparation . . . I never go far from the traditional menu ~ because it only seems right to keep memories of past Thanksgivings alive, and comfort close at this time of year. My wishes for you . . . A casual table, with warm fall colors. Detail of Salad plate.

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com29tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-81142080586289860412011-11-16T19:00:00.000-08:002011-11-27T16:26:05.551-08:00

Welcome to an Autumn Gathering on this Thursday before U.S. Thanksgiving 2011.   (And scroll down for the GIVEAWAY information!!) The table is set with traditional fall colors ~ Using things gathered from around the house (and garden) I went for the 'organic' feel this time. Earthy tones and natural textures, they especially remind me of autumn. The Dogwood trees flower in the

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-64644369916638700252011-11-16T12:30:00.000-08:002011-11-27T16:28:09.368-08:00

Recently I was asked by a representative from the Aerobie Company to try out and share my opinions of their Aero Press 1 to 4 cup Coffee and Espresso Maker. I was a little skeptical at first ~ because over the years, like many of you who drink and make your own coffee ~ I've had all kinds of coffee makers; electric coffee makers, French Presses, etc. Then about 5 years ago or so we invested

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com82tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-31848456016837581732011-11-15T04:30:00.000-08:002011-11-15T08:12:15.853-08:00

(Or Cappuccino Squares ~  actually they ended up becoming triangles in this case.) So . . .  If you happen to be sailing or taking a ferry to the San Juan Islands off the coast of Washington state anytime between early April and late November, a visit to Holly B's Bakery on Lopez Island is a must.  A true family business, Holly B's has been producing incredible bakery goods on the island for

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-39015095162086429052011-11-09T18:52:00.000-08:002011-11-10T18:18:10.924-08:00

This is one of my "Go-To Tried and True" recipes ~ it might become one of yours as well.  It's easy to make, budget friendly, healthful and very tasty! Here's the story ~ A dear friend of mine shared this one several years ago and it's been a favorite ever since. When she told me she discovered it in Patricia Well's cookbook "Trattoria" I was surprised, as I had bought that book when it was

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-63608657376648807872011-11-02T18:25:00.000-07:002011-11-03T19:17:31.654-07:00

Welcome ! I'm so happy you've stopped by for a visit ~ pull up a chair and help yourself to some icy milk and cookies fresh from the oven. This week for Tablescape Thursday we're taking a trip in the Way-Back Machine. Afternoon Milk and Cookies as may have been in the 1940's Cinnamon Roll Cookies ~    The taste and texture is very similar big cinnamon rolls ~ lots of cinnamon-sugar

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com28tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-51546896693384920992011-11-01T11:45:00.000-07:002011-11-01T11:45:01.065-07:00

Ding, Ding, Ding!! ~ We have a Winner ~ Picked by random drawing, our winner is:  Patricia @ Butter Yum! Congratulations Patricia!! If you'll email me yourmailing/shipping address, I'll forward it to thefolks at Bertolli so they can get your gift pack out to you. onceuponaplate [@] gmail [dot] com I want to thank everyone who entered ~ how I wish you ALL could have won. But, stand by ~ we

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-31328197294343899772011-10-29T19:46:00.000-07:002011-10-31T13:53:31.062-07:00

It's that time of year here ~  Soup Weather! And this is one of the most flavorful, comforting, and it is one of the  easiest soups to make that I know.  The bonus? It is packed with goodness, and is fairly low calorie too.Easy on the budget as well. Butternut Squash . . . yes, Organic! :) Just a method, no actual "recipe" needed. The amount of onion, broth and seasoning will depend upon

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-80301711698752589082011-10-27T16:16:00.000-07:002011-10-27T21:02:05.332-07:00

This is one of the very best pasta sauces I have ever tasted, different, but just as good as my own ~  surprisingly one of the easiest I have ever made, and from the slow cooker! Thick and rich,  full of sausage chunks and flavorful tomato pieces.  I could eat it by the spoonful, but it's meant to be served with large chunky pasta. First the preliminary step is to brown the sausage in a skillet

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-89074319953561825552011-10-26T00:56:00.000-07:002011-11-01T22:16:29.536-07:00

Bliss!  And just a short drive away. Wordless Wednesday Outdoor Wednesday #146 var addthis_pub = "Marisol5";

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-12055085286947099682011-10-22T14:22:00.000-07:002011-10-23T12:05:04.121-07:00

Soubise (noun);  pron. "soo-beez". Not to be confused with the classic Sauce Soubise (a combination of Soubise and Bechamel sauce pureed and served with vegetables or eggs.)  Soubise is an utterly delicious dish comprised of copious amounts of sliced onions, a small amount of blanched rice, butter, and seasonings; covered, baked in a 300˚(F) oven, and given an occasional stir now and then. After

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-37027179897274793202011-10-18T17:36:00.000-07:002011-10-31T12:04:57.656-07:00

Woo Hoo ~ I believe this may be my favorite give away yet! The folks at Bertolli recently sent me a wonderful gift box of goodies to help introduce their newest product ~ And the GOOD NEWS is that our WINNER will receive a gift box just like the one I received!! New Product!!  Premium Quality Meal Soups for two, you'll find them in the freezer section. Smart looking,

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com198tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-86398400880883781622011-10-10T13:59:00.000-07:002011-10-10T13:59:21.020-07:00

~ Tate's Bake Shop Cookies ~ Our randomly selected winner is:  Lynn from Happier Than a Pig in Mud !! Congratulations Lynn ~ if you'll email me your delivery addressI'll get your information off to the folks a Tate's Bake Shop right away. onceuponaplate (at) g m a i l (dot) c o m Thanks everyone for participating! Just a reminder ~ our next drawing will be for the Bertolli gift package.

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-38893333525841896972011-10-07T11:19:00.000-07:002011-10-31T12:38:52.173-07:00

Pizzettas are small pizzas (I make mine about 5 to 6-inches in diameter, or about 4 ounces of dough for each pizzetta), They are just the perfect size for a topping of cherry tomatoes, or top them with any of your favorite pizza components. *Sigh* The last wave of our tomatoes are ready to harvest, they happen to be some of the sweetest; tiny grape, yellow pear, orange cherry.

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-18610152818887869512011-10-06T09:15:00.000-07:002011-10-06T21:46:15.548-07:00

I'm reposting this one by request. Hi Everyone, I've received several requests for this recipe/method during the past couple of weeks.  Rather than continuing to copy it for each email ~ I'm reposting.   I originally posted this before I had a separate recipe blog ~ so I've updated it with a link to the printable recipe.  Hope you enjoy! ~*~*~*~*~ Perfect for this time of year, I

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-14856101929974238532011-10-05T11:05:00.000-07:002011-10-05T22:17:21.937-07:00

Traditional Greek souvlaki is made with lamb, but you can also use pork, chicken, beef, or fish (most often swordfish.) I chose pork this time because I had a couple of boneless pork loin chops in the refrigerator. The marinade is very simple (you don't need a recipe for this one.) Fresh lemon juice, garlic (minced), oregano, olive oil and salt and pepper. If you like garlic add lots!

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-71734641801816683702011-10-01T18:00:00.000-07:002011-10-13T09:43:43.745-07:00

October is National Cookie Month and to observe the occasion, the generous folks at Tate's Bake Shop asked me to sample and review their newest addition to their line of scrumptious cookies.  Of course I gladly obliged. :D (Image courtesy of Tate's Bake Shop) Tate's Bake Shop is located in Southampton, New York ~ and their products are also available by ordering online.  NOTE:There is a

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com39tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-39626341820391836782011-09-30T14:25:00.000-07:002011-09-30T14:30:35.588-07:00

Sometimes the simple things are the best  ~  like this dessert from Donna Hay. It takes practically no time to prepare, but it is very satisfying . . . not too rich, or too sweet. A warm pear, with a soft macaroon cookie baked in the middle, and served in a warm, buttery brown sugar syrup ~ perfect for a Fall evening! The recipe suggests red pears (which I happened to have on hand), but you

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-43744385094408771302011-09-28T10:26:00.000-07:002011-09-28T10:31:50.923-07:00

Wordless Wednesday Outdoor Wednesday var addthis_pub = "Marisol5";

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-45482372196755161382011-09-23T12:48:00.000-07:002011-10-31T18:31:13.503-07:00

Forget the overly-sweet mint sauce ~   There is something about the Greek way of grilling lamb, marinated in lemon, garlic, salt, pepper and fragrant dried oregano, that makes it irresistible and utterly delicious. The anticipation (and aroma) while the spit slowly turns is part of the pleasure . . .  knowing that there will be a fine meal to come.   This time I selected a smallish 4+ pound

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-14697589171054366952011-09-18T14:40:00.000-07:002011-09-22T17:39:58.892-07:00

 The inspiration for these harvest-time soups is simple ~ I hate wasting food. Among other things we grew green beans and squash this summer, and as often happens,  I usually run out of ideas of interesting ways to prepare our harvest before the gardens have given us their all for the season. These simple soups to the rescue ~  The preparation method is the same for all three; the variable

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-69982680894418912582011-09-16T15:33:00.000-07:002011-09-24T17:13:11.568-07:00

This is Helen Chen's version of Kung Pao Chicken, and it is very good. Helen was born in Shanghai and raised in Boston where she was taught simple, home-style food from their homeland. You may know that Helen's mother is Joyce Chen, founder of the cookware company with the same name. Of the several Chinese cookbooks I have, Helen's is one of my favorites because it is actually designed

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-45904472550110996392011-09-12T12:23:00.000-07:002011-10-31T12:39:28.060-07:00

My mom used to make something similar to these with leftover mashed potatoes when I was growing up, but for this version the potatoes are baked and mashed specifically for the recipe, the texture is a little different than those I remember from home. Mom never added cheese, but she did sometimes add scallions. So here is a dressed-up version of Mom's Potato Cakes (I'm sure mom would approve.)

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-75733052420301537462011-09-09T18:31:00.000-07:002011-09-10T14:48:30.950-07:00

Congratulations, Rett of  The Gazebo House  is our lucky winner of the Girard's Dressing Give Away!!! Rett, if you'll email me your mailing address I'll forward it along so the company can get you your gift box right away. Thank you everybody for entering the contest ~  We'll have more give aways coming up in the near future, so please stay tuned. Have an enjoyable weekend everyone. xo ~ Mari

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-20394292958735624942011-09-06T15:01:00.000-07:002011-10-31T12:12:51.812-07:00

In my last post I mentioned I had made those Brioche Buns with a special sandwich in mind, and here it is! But first a question . . . Do you tuck your outdoor grill away when summer passes? I know many of you live in mild climates where grilling is possible all year long, others of us have very different climates.  Here, I do sometimes grill in spite of our rainy winter season, though I'm not

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-88174179315621063562011-09-03T11:52:00.000-07:002011-09-03T11:52:50.987-07:00

Brioche (pronounced: [bʁi.ɔʃ]) is a highly enriched French pastry, whose high egg and butter content give it a rich and tender crumb. It is "light and slightly puffy, more or less fine, according to the proportion of butter and eggs"[1] It has a dark, golden, and flaky crust, frequently accentuated by an egg wash applied after proofing.  [Source: Wikipedia] This is the first time I've made

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-55802139281922387942011-08-31T11:45:00.000-07:002011-09-06T19:14:39.283-07:00

A GIVEAWAY! Recently I was given a very nice kitchen gift set from the Marzetti Company, including 4 bottles of Girard's new, improved salad dressings and was asked to blog about them.   Sept 6, 2011... I must make a correction, some of Girard's Dressings are Kosher, but not all. Please check the labels. My error for misreading the information on Girard's website. The good news is that one

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com50tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-79982812194236299892011-08-29T11:10:00.000-07:002011-10-31T12:40:01.786-07:00

Very recently a long-time internet friend Becky Shauberger Turner aka "DecoLady" passed at much too young an age. She leaves behind her beloved husband and two daughters, one just married in June and the other starting University this semester, family and friends who will miss her tremendously. Our paths crossed almost 10 years ago on the old "Food Network" message boards. When that board

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-9885675427371423262011-08-28T11:21:00.000-07:002011-10-31T12:40:37.893-07:00

A few days ago (see previous post) when I made the Pork Bulgogi I made these Pajeon [Korean Vegetable Pancakes] to complete the meal. Sorry if there is any confusion with the name of the recipe ~ there are numerous ways of spelling Pajeon, Pa Jun, Pa Jon, P'ajon, etc.  I spelled it the way I've seen it most often, if you know the correct way, I would appreciate your advice!  "Pa" is the

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-9485571689595651622011-08-22T12:33:00.000-07:002011-08-22T21:46:08.144-07:00

Yum! But first a disclaimer :)  ~  As far as I know, I don't possess a drop of Korean blood in my body and I am no expert on preparing Korean cuisine . . . but that doesn't stop me from enjoying it, and attempting to make it at home.  Particularly Korean BBQ (it's actually grilled, even though it is called BBQ.) For this version I scouted around the internet and combined a few recipes that I

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-72400451098749283932011-08-19T16:40:00.000-07:002011-08-19T17:13:19.584-07:00

If you've run out of ideas for serving summer squash, you might like to try this recipe.  Adapted from "Sunday Suppers a Lucques" by Suzanne Goin, this gratin is a little more flavorful than most as the squash is tossed in a flavorful Salsa Verde, then combined with shredded Gruyere or Jarlsberg cheese, and some brown-butter fresh breadcrumbs. Ingredients for the salsa ~ Parsley, oregano,

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-79570732417517132362011-08-16T13:20:00.000-07:002011-08-16T20:57:30.183-07:00

Cherry season is winding down here, and I'll miss the fresh ones until they make their appearance again next summer. Bing cherries are my favorite ~ we had a tree in our backyard while growing up, I loved to pick and eat them, juicy and sweet, warmed by the sun. Unfortunately, the birds liked them too, and often would get the reddest and most ripe ones before we could, much to my Dad's dismay!

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-70585729765814784382011-08-10T15:53:00.000-07:002011-08-12T17:12:57.405-07:00

I've mentioned before how I adore summer, when lunch is as simple to prepare as walking outdoors to the raised veggie & herb beds to gather ingredients for a quick salad. The original recipe was posted June, 2009 in the New York Times and included sugar snap peas with mint. No sugar snap peas in our garden, however we did grow pea pods again this year, and the basil is abundant right now so I

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-78583401238498216802011-08-01T17:22:00.000-07:002011-10-31T12:41:13.038-07:00

This simple way of preparing tomatoes caught my eye during a rerun episode of The Barefoot Contessa.  It's perfect for this time of year when the tomatoes are at their best.  And the basil is growing profusely.  When we become overrun with the stuff I make pesto. Some for enjoying now, and some for the freezer.   For the freezer batch, I use the food processor to combine the basil leaves,

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-26872733569076168022011-07-26T12:55:00.000-07:002011-10-31T12:42:16.061-07:00

It happens every year ~ I buy more nuts than I actually need for holiday baking... 'just in case'.  I bag and seal the excess and store them in the freezer.  By mid-summer it occurs to me that I better figure out a way to use them up before the next holiday season. I don't do as much baking in warm weather, but we do like to have smaller meals, and sometimes just a nibble . . . A little treat

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-80564141686416217332011-07-21T18:30:00.000-07:002011-07-22T21:21:53.489-07:00

Lavender ~ I love it!  Do you? It has been blooming for the past couple of weeks, and I enjoy harvesting it early in the morning, then tying small bundles to dry.   It smells heavenly, and I cook/create with it occasionally; Blueberry Lavender ice cream, Lavender Sugar Cookies, Lemon muffins with Lavender glaze, in a home blend of Herbes de Provence, Lavender-scented Lemonade, etc. This

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-57255778063914018912011-07-17T12:52:00.000-07:002011-07-17T12:55:39.472-07:00

The Merriam-Webster dictionary describes locavore this way: lo·ca·vore noun \ˈlō-kə-ˌvȯr\ LOCAVORE: one who eats foods grown locally whenever possible Origin of LOCAVORE local + -vore (as in carnivore)First Known Use: 2005 * * * * * I try to challenge myself to prepare local ingredients for our meals whenever I can, other times I incorporate local produce and products into a meal. This is

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-77016757813698099492011-07-07T08:42:00.000-07:002011-07-07T21:56:24.377-07:00

I don't know about how it is at your house, but more often than  not, I don't do much extensive menu planning unless it is for a special occasion (or if someone has a particular craving, or request!) Usually I'll just buy what is in season and the freshest at the grocery store or farmer's market then create what will be on the menu. So meal 'planning' is just a matter combining fresh food

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-15308012036304304922011-07-04T10:03:00.000-07:002011-10-31T12:42:49.177-07:00

Daniel Holzman and Michael Chernow of The Meatball Shop  demonstrated these spicy chicken mini-meatballs on a recently aired Martha Stewart program, they looked good so I wanted to give them a try. All the flavors of Buffalo Chicken wings, but without the bones. The key to the authentic "Buffalo" (as in Buffalo, New York) is the hot sauce and Frank's Red Hot  Original is the one

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-27593052698335033892011-06-30T09:32:00.000-07:002011-08-02T10:14:28.480-07:00

First of all, thank you for all of the kind comments, emails, and beautiful cards regarding the passing of our dog Cinnie girl. You all touched my heart and your kindness has been overwhelming.  Yes, 'just a dog' but never the less, a member of our family and daily life. It has been a little difficult to get back into the kitchen . . .  she was a 'food-driven' dog, and always my companion

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-71108755047366624242011-06-23T08:10:00.000-07:002011-06-23T08:11:47.696-07:00

Please join me for a 1950's Luncheon on the terrace, as originally shared in August 2009. I'm stepping out of my comfort zone as I usually set the table with more subdued colors and allow the food to make the statement. Not this time ~ for inspiration I drew upon memories of growing up in the 50's and 6o's. I hope you enjoy! I used the bright, primary colors in the reproduction

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-68713728774489910812011-06-22T07:50:00.000-07:002011-06-22T07:50:25.470-07:00

From a long time ago ~ Best wishes on your special day, son! See you soon.   With much love,  m & d var addthis_pub = "Marisol5";

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-13218352925728068542011-06-20T10:30:00.000-07:002011-06-20T14:34:05.101-07:00

We adopted Cinnamon from the Humane Society when she was about a year old.  That was a little over 10 years ago. Such a sweetie. Relishing a favorite once-in-a-while treat. As my family and some of you know,  she passed away a week ago today after a rather sudden illness.   Her Vet suspected it was an auto-immune disease, so we had been treating her for that for a few weeks, that's

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com30tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-64719898935124932802011-06-06T20:35:00.000-07:002011-06-20T10:39:35.342-07:00

I'll be taking a little break from blogging for some family time. Thank you for your support and understanding.  I hope to be back very soon.  ((Hugs)) ~mari var addthis_pub = "Marisol5";

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-61121118165451505472011-05-31T20:30:00.000-07:002011-05-31T22:40:33.281-07:00

Homemade Bagels.  They are infinitely better than the grocery store variety, and you can eat them warm from the oven it you want to. :)   (The finished bagels freeze beautifully!) Why make Bagels?? Well, if you live near a great bagel spot, you might not want to. But since I  (happily!)   no longer live in, or near a big city . .  I make my own. Yes,  'bagels' are available here ~  but

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-38460284503825723742011-05-31T14:08:00.000-07:002011-10-31T18:32:37.187-07:00

Note:  As of June 12, 2011 Our blog host "Blogger" by Google seems to be having ongoing problems with some of their blogging accounts  (Once Upon a Plate included).  This post was originally published in May, 2011 yet the post time-stamp is June 10, 2011. (?) I apologize on behalf of 'Blogger.com' for the redundancy . Blessings, and I hope you have a good week everyone. ~*~*~*~*~*~

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-40156494455904265842011-05-24T17:52:00.000-07:002011-10-31T10:29:25.749-07:00

I'm the first to admit that bananas aren't my favorite fruit.   I can handle eating them when they are still quite firm and prefer them when they still have a green-tinge to them.  But once they become soft, and the peels become riddled with brown "sugar" spots (when they are at their sweetest) there is something about the texture which I don't care for.  At that point they either go into

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-4034153656100165562011-05-22T11:26:00.000-07:002011-10-31T10:40:01.885-07:00

Berries! I love them, do you?  I haven't met one I didn't like. But of all the berries I think my favorites are raspberries. How about you, do you have a favorite? When I came across this recipe from a back-issue of Cooks Illustrated I wondered how it escaped my attention the first time around. It's a little different than an average berry streusel bar in that it uses both raspberry jam/

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com36tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-21628807477556674842011-05-18T14:48:00.000-07:002011-05-19T22:35:51.517-07:00

Well, even if the weather isn't going to cooperate and play along with the date on the calendar it can't prevent us from enjoying spring and summery food, right? We've been teased with a few warm days and sunny skies lately ~ but the background of drizzle and a gray cover overhead predominate.  Unusual for us at this time of year, because normally our veggie garden would have been planted by

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-65006142484077328582011-05-18T08:48:00.000-07:002011-05-18T08:48:00.698-07:00

Wordless Wednesday var addthis_pub = "Marisol5";

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-50831322431713808152011-05-13T14:27:00.000-07:002011-05-16T08:37:00.101-07:00

We're blessed to have some of the best neighbors imaginable ~ and for Mother's Day I received a beautiful bouquet of asparagus, freshly cut from their garden, along with a Mother's Day note.  Thank you Paul and Jane! If you grow your own you know that it tastes infinitely better than the grocery store stuff ~ it's the delicate freshness! For our Mother's Day Luncheon for two I wanted to

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-92031468635100036342011-05-09T16:29:00.000-07:002011-10-31T12:45:12.991-07:00

Two-bite puffs of savory goodness ~ I got the inspiration from one of Tyler Florence's restaurants to recreate them at home. They got thumbs up. :) Crisp, airy & cheesy little pâte à choux puffs seasoned with Gruyère and Parmesan cheeses. Then baked and filled with a warm Gruyère Sauce Mornay, sprinkled with bacon and chives.   Yes, they are rich, one or two will do. And next time I will

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-39719983893659424552011-05-07T20:00:00.000-07:002011-05-07T20:01:14.983-07:00

Cinnamon Doughnut Muffins have been around for a long, long time. But this version, adapted from "Taste of Home" is a little different . . . . . .  a fruit jam filling.  Really easy to make, too. Just mix up the simple batter, half fill the cupcake tins with batter, drop a teaspoon or so of your favorite jam in each one (I chose my sister's delicious homemade Strawberry jam this time.

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-32591299124064717552011-05-05T13:52:00.000-07:002011-10-31T12:45:53.764-07:00

Do you love Spring?   I do! The explosion of colors and bursts of new life everywhere make my heart very happy. Violas and Pansies are among the first to bloom here ~ these little jewels reseed themselves each year in abundance all over the garden. Since we garden organically with no chemicals, the flowers are edible.  In case you're wondering, the dogs and chickens are not allowed in

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-13683627771476871142011-05-03T14:33:00.000-07:002011-05-03T14:35:03.131-07:00

When I devised this dish the dilemma arose as to what to name it.  The 'sauce' for the fish isn't a true vinaigrette ~ it's loaded with olives, and many more chopped herbs than a traditional vinaigrette. But the flavors of a herb vinaigrette are all there ~ Lemon juice and zest, Dijon mustard (optional), olive oil, salt and pepper. With the addition of some slivered olives. (You might

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-12536182305695399552011-05-02T06:59:00.000-07:002011-05-02T07:02:39.796-07:00

P(Image courtesy of Bertolli) The winner of the drawing is Pam of Sidewalk Shoes.  Pam if you will email me your mailing address asap your gift kit will be overnighted via FedEx in time for Wednesday's event. [onceuponaplate (at) gmail (dot) com] Everyone is invited to attend the virtual wine pairing on Wednesday at 7pm (Central time), I hope you'll join us ~ to RSVP (click here) for details

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-87033093058500196372011-04-29T10:27:00.000-07:002011-05-01T22:46:08.858-07:00

Sunday May 1st  ~  9PM Pacific Time (DRAWING is now CLOSED)  Thank you entering  everyone !! Winner will be announced Monday, May 2, 2011. It's a virtual wine tasting and pairing hosted by Bertolli on Wednesday May 4 (at 7pm Central Standard Time.)  The wine tasting and pairing will be led by Sommelier and vino Italiano expert Stacie Hunt, certified by the Association of

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com34tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-62717812772271280252011-04-25T05:35:00.000-07:002011-10-31T12:00:43.141-07:00

If you grew up in the 1950's or '60's, chances are your mom or grandmother made a Pineapple Up-Side-Down cake on occasion.  Most everybody I knew who made the cake used canned pineapple as it was more readily available than fresh then.   Canned will do in this recipe ~ but fresh just moves it up a notch. When I saw a version that Tyler Florence serves at his San Francisco "Wayfare Tavern"

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-49160588378704421752011-04-23T21:00:00.000-07:002011-04-23T21:00:03.713-07:00

var addthis_pub = "Marisol5";

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-74268017181401707822011-04-21T12:30:00.000-07:002011-10-31T12:46:25.058-07:00

As much as I like Crab & Cheese Fondue, to my mind the stars of the show here are the Fennel-Oregano Breadsticks. And the bonus is they are so simple to make and go together quickly, mix the ingredients in either a big bowl or your food processor. No tedious shaping, you just roll out the dough and cut into thin strips, place cut side up on oiled baking pan, allow to rest 10 minutes then

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-35506174527134549862011-04-19T13:40:00.000-07:002011-10-31T15:07:03.008-07:00

If you make Deviled Eggs you probably have a favorite recipe as I do, but this time I wanted to try them prepared just a little differently. I was intrigued when I saw the recipe from Tyler Florence's Wayfare Tavern incorporating Creme Fraiche into the whipped egg yolks. I had to leave out some of the stronger flavors from the recipe to make these more 'kid friendly', but never the less they

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-33988903138408387702011-04-13T13:39:00.000-07:002011-04-13T13:57:41.384-07:00

. . . . Thank you for stopping by today! ~m. var addthis_pub = "Marisol5";

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-6179648726295063192011-04-10T18:15:00.000-07:002011-04-10T23:59:14.871-07:00

First a warning. Under no circumstances should you make these unless you are:  A. Having company over. B. Taking them to a party. C. Have friends/family/neighbors you'll share them with.   Why? Because if you LIKE them, you'll want to eat more of them than you should. Lots of rich Mascarpone & whipped cream frosting, with a last minute dusting of cocoa. Okay . . . You've been warned. :D

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com25tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-65703248817024951112011-04-09T12:06:00.000-07:002011-04-09T12:06:03.864-07:00

A few random shots from around the garden ~ some soft, some vibrant . . . I hope you're having a wonderful weekend, friends! var addthis_pub = "Marisol5";

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-141394521399997142011-04-06T13:42:00.000-07:002011-04-09T12:04:52.618-07:00

Because of its known health benefits, I try to serve salmon about once a week. In order to avoid repetition I switch out the method of preparation, and the seasonings. This happens to be an easy and flavorful way of serving it ~ inspired by a couple of Asian-style recipes I've used in the past.  I make my own thick teriyaki sauce as it only takes a few minutes to combine the ingredients and

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-12639062813312156982011-04-05T09:05:00.000-07:002011-04-05T09:05:00.761-07:00

                       Clarice @ Storybook Woods ! Clarice, if you'll email me your address, I'll forward it to the folks at CSN so they can get you your gift certificate.  (onceuponaplate (at) gmail (dot) com) Thank you everyone for entering! Please stay tuned, we'll have another give-away coming up soon. var addthis_pub = "Marisol5";

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-54354165350570212742011-04-02T15:33:00.000-07:002011-04-02T15:35:10.667-07:00

Yesterday . . . just around the bend . . . from home. Hope you're having a wonderful weekend everyone! var addthis_pub = "Marisol5";

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-49967812588684995222011-03-31T12:55:00.000-07:002011-10-31T13:34:36.415-07:00

If you've been following my blog for a while, you probably know I favor salty, tangy or spicy over sweets . . . (although I do like a little sweet snack or dessert once in a while.) Hmmm... salty... as in olives? When it comes to olives, I love them all.  I haven't met an olive I have not liked. Particular favorites are Greek Kalamatas and Dry-Cured olives  ~ so naturally I was immediately

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-28710166621589144982011-03-27T14:01:00.000-07:002011-03-27T17:06:02.960-07:00

This is a delicious and easy meal to put together if you have some marinara sauce in the house ~  It's quite budget friendly, too. For this dish I always make it with my favorite homemade tomato sauce, which I posted about a couple of years ago:   Arturo's 25 year old Marinara Sauce.   That link tells the story of the name of the sauce and has step-by-step photos.   For the printer

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-28398161213724228222011-03-23T17:15:00.000-07:002011-10-31T15:13:54.298-07:00

Ya, well we've been doing quite well with our healthier eating habits for the past several months . . .  SO . . . Every once in a while I'll make some kind of treat as a reward for our efforts ~ it's okay to do that, you know. ;) See the thin layer of peanut butter between chocolate topping and  the peanut butter- & oat cookie base ?!  Yummy. I was in the mood to make something sweet,

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-83433742496985848462011-03-20T20:07:00.000-07:002011-10-31T12:23:23.442-07:00

Ann Thibeault Signature, hand-crafted Vancouver Island Big Leaf Maple serving and cutting boards, and Dungeness Crab. Both are valued treasures of the Pacific Northwest. The Dungeness crabs are common on the west coast and fairly easy to come by during crab season here. However, the unique boards ~ each made with one single piece of hardwood Vancouver Island Big Leaf Maple are

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-48493805131615513712011-03-18T13:07:00.000-07:002011-03-18T13:33:37.272-07:00

Honk if you're ready for some Spring weather! Many of the early spring bulbs are blooming in the garden, but old man winter seems reluctant to leave us just yet... As evidenced by the nasty storm that blew through last weekend.I like soup almost any time of year, something light, or chilled when the weather warms up ~but for now it's still "hearty soup" time in these parts. This one is from

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-29261763722828455062011-03-14T21:23:00.000-07:002011-03-18T13:28:14.194-07:00

Vinegar Glossed Chicken and a GIVE AWAY!It is prepared stove top, in a skillet or saute pan, as can be found here in a pan set (clickable link.)~*~*~*~*~This recipe, (originally from " Mad Hungry: Feeding Men and Boys" by Lucinda Scala Quinn)it is one my friendLinda @ How to Cook A Wolf posted about not long ago. Both Linda and I had previously used (different) recipes for Vinegar Chicken ~ and

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com48tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-65389836251020599142011-03-11T13:49:00.000-08:002011-03-11T19:03:45.989-08:00

What exactly is “Schiacciata” (Skee-ach-iata) you might ask? I never knew the proper name for this bread, I just called it Stuffed Foccacia ~ (and basically that's what it is.) The word literally means flattened, smashed, crushed in Italian.From Tuscany, Schiacciata con "l'Uva" (crushing the grapes) is the traditional flatbread stuffed and topped with grapes during autumn (grape harvest time).

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-72084782140216861322011-03-09T09:45:00.000-08:002011-10-31T12:49:12.129-07:00

If you're looking for a somewhat healthier option for a snack, or accompaniment to your favorite beverage, you might like this one. It is at once, very fresh, a little tangy and the flavor is derived from the herbs you choose.  No heat at all in this one. I am drawn back again and again --out of the many-- to one of my most beloved cookbooks; "Christina's Cookbook ~ Stories from a Northwest

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-82814974720254263102011-03-06T13:42:00.000-08:002011-03-09T22:15:12.616-08:00

Leave it Barbara and Marion Cunningham to share one of the best versions of Belgian-style waffles ever ~I've tried a few different recipes, with mixed results. But this recipe succeeded in surpassing my expectations, producing light, crisp (and non-flaccid) Belgian-style waffles.I like the fact that the batter is mixed the night before and allowed to rise overnight, by morning the batter will

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-3141170485558359732011-03-04T10:50:00.000-08:002011-03-04T10:51:10.316-08:00

If you want an authentic Mexican recipe for Enchiladas Verdes... this is NOT it.  However it's a very good version ~ especially if you have family members or friends who are tender-mouthed. And you can always make it spicier with some fresh salsa if you like.  I adapted the recipe from Sunset Magazine "Food Processor Cook Book", circa 1978. Using the food processor, it goes together quickly and

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-31475198133906133952011-03-02T13:03:00.000-08:002011-10-31T12:49:50.864-07:00

I've posted about variations of Asian dumplings before; (Vegetable Potstickers Here,  and Meat Dumplings Here.)   And although I only make them a few times a year, it becomes easier (and the process faster) each time.  If you have never made them and have a desire to do so, I urge you to try ~ they are not difficult, just a little time consuming at first. And it doesn't matter if your first

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-11813256464678936972011-02-28T12:16:00.000-08:002011-02-28T12:16:39.425-08:00

Honestly, I think the real Caesar Salad has lost it's way and morphed into a shadow of its former self... thanks in part to sloppy renditions found at fast food places and chain restaurants today. This version is not an authentically classic either, but it is Donna Hay's take on the classic and far superior to most.  I  pretty much followed her lead, but I did change just a few

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-72042096066858315792011-02-22T11:56:00.000-08:002011-10-31T10:37:05.858-07:00

Usually I serve broccoli steamed, stir-fried, oven roasted or in salads, but the other day I was searching for a different way to prepare it. I remember having been served it with a crispy bread crumb coating at an Italian restaurant once; I've made it with toasted buttery-herb flavored bread crumbs sprinkled over...   But I wanted the crumbs to actually adhere to the broccoli.

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-38149338469881066792011-02-20T14:08:00.000-08:002011-10-31T12:50:36.725-07:00

Honestly, I can't tell you if these are authentically Chinese... however,  I have found recipes for them in Chinese cookbooks written by Chinese-American authors who were born in China. And I know the translated name for them is pronounced  'Ha Toe See'...but the "sandwich bread" aspect of the recipe causes me to wonder.  Maybe one of my readers can tell us more about the origin the the

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-48378964995895004572011-02-16T12:25:00.000-08:002011-03-09T16:43:59.585-08:00

I may lose a lot of you here, but I love Brussels Sprouts and have been fond of them ever since I was a child.  I was enamored with small things then, and they reminded me of tiny cabbage heads.  My mom would usually just steam or boil them and we would drizzle apple cider vinegar over them before digging in.   But I like them prepared this way even better ~ I parboil (until just barely

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-9253004851947909152011-02-11T08:23:00.000-08:002011-03-09T16:46:14.867-08:00

Hi Friends, My Valentine's Day post is a little early this year, and it is a redux (originally posted 1 year ago.)  I'm going to be away from the blog for a couple of days as we're revamping the office/study and are upgrading computers. I first saw the idea on Lloyd & Lauren's blog, and if you do an internet search you can find several variations. I thought they would make perfect

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-61084398013907453402011-02-09T13:32:00.000-08:002011-03-09T16:47:04.652-08:00

First, my apologies to all who are buried in snow as this frozen treat is probably not something you're dreaming of right now... But the last of the Clementines needed to be eaten, so I utilized them this way.   Photo credit: kqed. Click image to link These sweet, juicy jewels are at their peak during the winter here.  Easy to peel, usually nearly seedless and just the right size for a

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-20320218559607272792011-02-07T14:12:00.000-08:002011-10-31T15:08:28.198-07:00

Hi friends, I have two things to share with you today:(An admission, and a product review.) First, the admission ~ I have a love/hate relationship with grocery shopping! How about you? photo credit: google images I absolutely LOVE having fridge (and pantry) filled with good food, but I HATE the actual process of dealing with the grocery store experience, not to mention having to lug

Mari @ Once Upon a Platehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16780341844995085098noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-630857423783823238.post-20816107001761987132011-02-02T08:33:00.000-08:002011-03-09T16:47:47.054-08:00

var addthis_pub = "Marisol5"; A little while back I promised to share a few more ways of putting your panini maker to use ~Here are a few of my favorites ~  and the good news?  No recipes needed. Salmon with Dijon Mustard - Herbes de Provence Vinaigrette Salmon filets, sprinkled with salt and pepper, brushed with oil and grilled. Add some Herbes de Provence to your favorite Dijon

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