• Maple pear sparkler
    Drinks

    Maple Pear Sparkler

    A sparkling pear drink complements the dishes of fall, offering a refreshing accompaniment to warm spices and hearty meals.  This sparkler combines pear juice, maple simple syrup, and a touch of fresh pomegranate and lemon for a festive drink fit for the Thanksgiving table.  Bubbles are contributed by mineral water though sparkling white wine such as Prosecco does the trick as well, making this a drink that easily transforms from non-alcoholic to full-on cocktail.  Slip a thinly sliced pear into the glass as a garnish, and for an even more festive touch, brûlée it first. Along with garnishes and drink recipes, I discuss mixology according to the seasons in my…

  • New Year's Party
    Food,  Living

    New Year’s Party Food for Joy and Prosperity

    After the elaborate roasts and trays of appetizers you may have served over the holidays, it can be challenging to come up with more recipes for a New Year’s celebration, particularly if you’re entertaining many of the same guests. Aside from champagne and charcuterie, which I know you already have covered, here are my recommendations of what to enjoy as you ring in the new year. Good Luck Foods From good health to good fortune, we each have our wishes for the days ahead. Turn to foods that symbolize these wishes as a way to share good luck with everyone around you, such as pork for progress and prosperity, extra-long…

  • candied orange margarita
    Drinks,  Food

    Candied Orange Margarita

    Candied fruit slices are delicious and luxe looking, which makes them perfect for the holidays. Glistening in the pan and sparkly under kitchen lights, they always remind me of ornaments. Enjoy them on their own or as an accompaniment to a slice of cake, but make sure to reserve the syrup left in the pan to make a candied orange margarita. Ingredients Candied Orange Slices 1 unwaxed orange 2 cups water 1 cup sugar Candied Orange Margarita 1 ounce reposado tequila ½ ounce Cointreau ½ ounce candied orange syrup Juice of 1 large lime Salt for rim optional Rows of candied fruit slices drying on racks are quite a sight.…