Lemon Poppy Seed Cake with Strawberry Glaze

Lemon Poppyseed Cake_2

The weather is finally getting beautiful here in DC, which only means one thing… Cherry Blossoms. A gift from the Japanese in 1912 as a token of friendship between the two countries, these beautiful flowers bloom for only as long as 14 days, usually around the end of March/beginning of April. Since my birthday falls on April 4, and I’ve grown up in the DC area, I am absolutely convinced that they bloom just for me! (more…)

Garlic Rosemary Lamb Chops

Lamb Chops 2

Simplicity is so underrated.

When it comes to cooking, the less steps, the better. At least in my personal opinion. Roasted lamb chops sounds pretty complicated, but in fact, it isn’t. I’m telling you, your friends and family will be so impressed when you bring out this elegant-looking dish. They’ll have no idea that it was actually easier to whip up than some of your side dishes. (more…)

Roasted Cauliflower and Lentil Salad

Roasted Cauliflower and Lentil Salad

It’s the first day of spring! Finally. It certainly feels like spring today with the sun shining and temperatures inching up to 60 F.  With warmer weather we’re reminded that we’ll be peeling off our layers and trying to fit into our short shorts in a couple months. I, for one, realize how pale this extra long winter has made me and how badly I need to get back to the gym to work off the nice layer of fat I’ve accumulated to keep me warm (or so I rationalize). (more…)

Irish Soda Bread

Irish Soda Bread

Happy St. Patrick’s Day!

I’m not even 1% Irish, but I love anything worth celebrating. And hey, why not! The DC Metro area is currently covered in snow. Yes, Mid-March and spring doesn’t seem to be anywhere in sight (minus the gorgeous 65F day we had on Saturday). Though the federal government is closed for the day, I threw on my favorite pair of jeans, a comfortable top and topped the festive look off with a green headband, then got to baking. (more…)

Grilled Cedar Plank Salmon

Cedar Plank Salmon

65 F degrees mid-February … yes please!

I cannot tell you how much I’ve missed the spring. As one of my friends, Ruby, has told me, I get inspired when the weather is nice – that is, any day above 60 F and sunny. And she is absolutely right. That’s why the minute I found out we’d be having a gorgeous 65 F degree day, I planned a low-key afternoon BBQ complete with my favorite Crab Parmesan Dip, burgers, garlic yogurt marinated chicken and cedar plank salmon. (more…)

Skillet Smores

Skillet Smores_2

 

Yes, I’m that person that complains and complains about the weather. But rightfully so, I think, since this has been one of the most brutal, coldest winters I’ve ever experienced in the DC area.

I’m over heavy winter coats, and slushy snow. I’m over the fear of sliding on ice during my morning commute to work, before the sun rises. I’ve worn my boots, and cute winter outfits and I’m ready for some warmer weather. 50 F just doesn’t cut it. I’m so ready to fire up the outdoor grill and try out some new recipes. So despite the fact that there’s still snow out, I’ve decided to create my very own indoor BBQ, complete with my favorite summertime dessert; smores! (more…)