Monthly Archives: July 2011

Bananas Foster Bread

The first time I made this bread last year, I ended up setting my oven on fire and never got to try the finished product.  I have to admit I was a little nervous this time but luckily there was no fire, only the lingering aroma of banana goodness.  Everyday banana bread is already delicious and this recipe, with dark rum, is like a blinged-out version.  The addition of flax seed (which took me a while to find at the store) adds texture and a bit of a nutty flavor which I like.  The icing glaze adds sweetness but it isn’t necessary – the bread is good enough without it.

Additions:  None

Omissions:  None

Substitutions:  None

Overall Rating:  Love It

Source:  Cooking Light Magazine

Spring Linguine with Basil

I know we’ve passed spring this year but I thought this pasta dish from Cooking Light sounded like it could be good for summer too.  I don’t usually make pasta dishes with uncooked fresh pasta but I decided to stick with the recipe this time.  Not only does fresh pasta cook faster than dry pasta but it made the meal feel lighter than most pasta dishes I make.  While the lemon and basil add a flavorful boost, I feel like it was missing something.  Replacing the reserved pasta water with white wine or broth might give it that little extra something.  Overall, the meal was light and fresh but it was hard to get all of the flavors in one bite since it’s nearly impossible to keep peas on the fork when twirling linguine!

Additions:  None

Omissions:  None

Substitutions:

  • Frozen peas for fresh peas (because it’s what I had on hand)

Overall Rating:  Like It

Source:  Cooking Light Magazine

Vodka Ginger Lemonade

When I made this cocktail from Cottage Living on one of this summer’s first hot days, I was so happy with it I poured another icy glass and walked it over to my friend’s house for her to try.  The fresh lemon juice and simple syrup provides a refreshment that you just can’t get from powdered mix or concentrated lemonade.  The ground ginger adds a pleasant twist just be careful and maybe go a little shy of two full teaspoons otherwise it can overpower the drink.  The sparkling water also adds a nice fizzy touch.

Additions:  None

Omissions:  None

Substitutions:  None

Overall Rating:  Love It

Source:  Cottage Living Magazine

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