Mexican Rice

Primavera by Santana
A beautiful song.  Enchanting lyrics with a gorgeous latin beat.  Carlos Santana has written a beautiful song about the rebirth and new beginnings that come with spring.  It's well worth your time to google the translation.  Sheer poetry.  Measuring in at 6 minutes and 22 seconds long, this song gives you plenty of time to get your cha-cha on!  What are you waiting for?  

Happy Cinco de Mayo!
I know it's a bit early but I wanted to share this with you in plenty of time for you to include it in your party planning.  I'd have to say it's pretty authentic.  I learned how to make Mexican Rice literally at the elbow of a former sister-in-law who is from Pueblo, Mexico.  She made such wonderful rice, I had to know how to do it myself.  She also made fabulous lemon/limeade.  I wish I had listened closer to how she made that!  Alas, I'm happy that I at least have the rice down!

Raspberry Macarons with Lemon Curd

Raspberry Beret by Prince & The Revolution
I've often thought that French Macarons look like they're wearing a little hat.  After they're all baked and are "outfitted" with their fillings it is then time to place their little cap on the top and send them out the door.  I like how the one in the photo at about 3 o'clock looks like they've tipped theirs to add a little attitude.  And she should have some attitude ~ yes, "she," for they're just too cute and dainty to be anything else.  She has a zesty lemon soul with a delicate raspberry shell - and, were she to use her little feet and take a stroll down the street, she would have gentlemen lined up to tip their cap as well!  Pretty and delicious!

I'm back at the French Macaron project again.  Practice!  Practice!  Practice!  I am much less apprehensive now, even though I still have some flops now and then.  And when I do have those flops, I can usually tell what I did wrong. 

These raspberry macarons are a practice run for an upcoming wedding reception.  My friend has ordered three different flavors from me.  The wedding colors are soft pinks, cream, and glittery gold.  Fun, fun, fun!

Fresh Asparagus Risotto

Spring, Spring, Spring by Cast of "Seven Brides For Seven Brothers"
I really hope you've seen this movie.  It's a musical from 1954 starring Howard Keel and Jane Powell and is one of my FAVORITES for very many reasons ~ this song being one of them!  Anyone who has ever had to endure a long, long seemingly never-ending cold and snowy winter, can appreciate the joy and celebration of spring that is conveyed so perfectly through this song's lilting melody and charming lyrics.  "Every field wears a bonnet, with some spring daisies on it."  I mean, come on!!  If you're of the inclination to feel the need to dance about and celebrate the arrival of spring, then this song is for you!  And, if you love the arrival of fresh and vibrant green asparagus, then this recipe is for you!

My Facebook wall is filled with news of friends who are getting new baby chicks, bunnies, puppies, etc.  There are those who are sharing gardening tips as we get ready to plant our gardens.  It's all about new beginnings - and I love the energy!

Spaetzle

It's So Easy by Linda Ronstadt
It's so easy -  to make.  It's so easy to fall in love - with spaetzle!  Sometimes I find myself thinking that because a food is ethnic, it has to be difficult.  Which is ridiculous because there are lots of examples where that's not true.  But, still - sometimes I hesitate.  No need to hesitate with spaetzle.  This German staple is not only easy, but quick as well!  Lightning quick!  And versatile.  Add it to soups in place of rice or pasta - or serve as a side dish.  Did I mention that it's so doggone easy?

So my ancestry is German.  

Very German.  

I have it coming at me from both parents.  It was one of my earliest identifiers.  My maternal grandfather would speak the language now and then.  I used to hang out with him while he worked on cabinets and such out in his garage/shop.  Sometimes the hammer would slip or some other mishap would happen.  He'd say some German words in frustration.  Those are among the first German words I learned - and remembered.  Funny how kids pick up on THOSE words first, right?  Luckily, I never shared the words with others.  I just whispered them to myself and wondered.