Fifteen Minute French Pea Soup

I've made different versions of this simple pea soup for many years. I like this recipe because it's quick and creamy. The cheerful soup is a keeper during the cold months. The bright green color lifts my mood. This foolproof French pea soup is ready in under fifteen minutes. A fast, fresh soup with delicate taste and velvety texture never disappoints.

Butternut Squash & Apple Bisque

French women have their own version of butternut squash soup. Some recipes are complex. Some are quite simple. After testing several recipes of this popular soup, I found my favorite. My recipe is cozy and easy to prepare. This beautiful bisque is chic and special enough to serve at your Thanksgiving dinner. There's a hint of nutmeg and cinnamon in it.  If you've followed me for a while, you know I love soup. This one is a keeper.

French Apple Cake

In general, no one needs much advice. Even when requested, all anyone is searching for is sincere compassion and understanding. Phrases like "You need to" or "Why are you doing that?" can be interpreted (by stressed but fully functional humans) as arrogant and annoying. Gentle suggestions are usually okay. Attempting to boss or bend people to your will never works. Take a leap of faith, believing that people have great potential to figure it all out. In their own time and in their own way, they invariably do. Quiet support and heartfelt prayers are a good idea. Coffee and cake are always welcome too.

French Vanilla Pear Muffins

Muffins are a favorite of mine. Simple ingredients are mixed with fruit and in less than thirty minutes home-baked-happiness-happens. 

  

Leek, Bacon & Cheddar Gratin

We love leeks around here! This is a riff on Jacques Pepin's delicious leek gratin recipe. 

It bakes up melty, creamy and bubbly, with the smoky flavor of the bacon complimenting the sweet leeks. It's wonderful alongside roast chicken. Great with roast beef, meatloaf or pot roast too.   

Coconut Milk Chocolate Mousse

In search of a creamy, dreamy, non-dairy version of chocolate mousse? Look no further. Smooth and chocolaty with a light texture, it rivals the real thing. But, it’s not as heavy as traditional mousse because it’s made with coconut milk.

Creamy Fresh Pea Soup with Basil and Lime

Life near Boston gets hectic. When thoughts of packing up and moving to Montana fill my mind, I turn to stitching and cooking. These domestic pleasures rescue me. An afternoon spent whipping up a wonderful soup and working on a pretty French monogram soothe my soul. A movie marathon is also welcome.