Oktoberfest!

Best of the Wurst

It's October! Time for trips to the pumpkin patch, haunted forests and most importantly - soups, squash and sweatpants! Summer in the swamp of DC was brutal, and I opted for dishes that required minimal heat. Since Fall is finally upon us, it's time to light a fire under my.....stove, and get cookin'! Last weekend I had a magical time in Disney World, where the Oktoberfest activities were in full swing. I wanted to keep the magic alive when I got home, so I created an Oktoberfest-style dinner complete with Bavaria Brass band playlist - nothing makes me hungrier than the sound of a tuba. Let the feeling of gemütlichkeit come over you by making this meal for yourself!

Feel Good Fish Dish

Salmon is such a wonderful fish. It can stand up to bold flavors, it's flaky, but still delicate, you can grill it or bake it or sear it -- I just love it. I get really excited when it's on sale (the fresh stuff, not the frozen stuff), so I like to treat it with love and respect when it makes an appearance in my kitchen. Since my trip to China, I've been under the influence of Asian flavors and this recipe was a big hit at my house. Give it a try and let me know what you think!

Low and Slow

This one pot supper is packed with flavor and perfect for a week night. While the chicken braises, you can watch Jeopardy (an addiction of mine), throw in a load of laundry or make yourself a cocktail to unwind from the work day.

I tend to start a braised dish like this as soon as I get home from work. That way, it has plenty of time to develop flavor and it's ready by the time my man friend gets home.* :)