Sunday, July 13, 2014

How Many Favorites Do I Get?

I was so pleased with the blondies that I decided to see what else I could conjure in the kitchen. Once again, I turned to Smitten Kitchen for inspiration. Using this recipe I made some very simple pizza dough, raided the fridge and garden, then fired up the grill. I had never grilled pizza dough before and was concerned that it would be very difficult and, ultimately, a giant mess.

I wouldn't say that it was simple, but it certainly wasn't as delicate an operation as I had anticipated. Once the dough began to brown on the first side it became fairly easy to flip. My only regret is forgetting to pull fresh herbs from the garden. Once this project was underway, I only had time to grab a few things out of the cabinet.

I also discovered that this dog, my best boy Gravy, likes zucchini!

Saturday, July 12, 2014

I Have the Answer!

When I want to make something and I really don't want it to fail, I turn to Smitten Kitchen. I have never been disappointed by her recipes and, this time, I wasn't just pleased. I think this recipe just changed my life.

I often crave some sort of cookie. I never have anything specific in mind and there is not a cookie at the grocery store that would satisfy me. I know that something homemade would do the trick, but the effort involved in making multiple pans of individual cookies makes me want to lay down and take a nap.

These blondies are the ultimate answer. They have a cookie feel and flavor, but they can get mixed up and baked within 45 minutes. They are just as flexible as promised. Today I chose to add chocolate chips, sunflower seed and chopped dried apricots. I would have included the apricots in the photo, but I ate them all before the baking was done. I could not help myself.