As I was prepping this dish I came to the realization that I have never posted a mac-n-cheese recipe!? That kinda blew my mind considering what a cheese-head I am, coupled with my love of pasta! Anyhow, my recipe for mac-n-cheese is a derivative of Alton Brown's original recipe. I discovered it years ago and … Continue reading Loaded Broccoli Mac-n-Cheese
As the days grow shorter and the nights get a little colder, I start craving comfort foods like risotto! I came across this recipe in Cooking Light magazine (of all places) and made it for supper just last night, paired with grilled pork loin and sautéed asparagus. Now I took a few liberties with the … Continue reading Sweet Corn Risotto
I was skeptical when I first tasted this sauce as is, but was pleasantly surprised after smothering a pork roast with it to make pulled pork in my slow cooker! It's both sweet and tangy and despite concerns that it might burn in the crockpot due to it's sugar content, it did not... even after … Continue reading Homemade BBQ Sauce
I make home made mac-n-cheese all the time so adding lobster meat didn't seem like a stretch when my daughter asked me to jazz things up for her special birthday meal! Although I used Monterey Jack cheese, you could try a mix of cheddar and jack or even something creamy and decadent like mascarpone. I … Continue reading Lobster Luvah Mac-n-Cheese
My dad Rudy makes the BEST potato salad, drawing inspiration from his German heritage. Although I draw my inspiration from his original recipe, I use less vinegar. What we both have in common is mixing everything together while the potatoes are still warm. It makes a huge difference in the profile and complexity of this rather … Continue reading German Style Potato Salad
Made this for our neighborhood Fourth of July gathering in our cul-de-sac. We are so fortunate to have great neighbors who are more like friends and family than simply people living in close proximity! This is an easy pasta salad with a mediterranean twist, perfect for sharing and feeding a small crowd! Enjoy!! Ingredients: Feeds 8-10 … Continue reading Pasta Salad with Pesto
I cannot take credit for the catchy name or the tasty combination of ingredients; I know quite a few home cooks who have their own version of this recipe on file! However, I can tell you how I make it as well as list a few unique ways to repurpose your leftovers! Ingredients: Serves 10 … Continue reading Texas Caviar
Why order take out when you can make it (better) yourself at home?! This tasty shrimp fried rice is easy to make and satisfyingly delicious! If shrimp aren't your thing, substitute with chicken or leave the protein out all together... it makes an excellent side dish! Ingredients: Feeds 4 - 6 1 1/2 cups white rice … Continue reading Shrimp Fried Rice
This is a tasty summer salad that pairs well with everything from hot dogs and hamburgers, to ribs, pulled pork, tacos or carnitas! If you're short on time, use left over corn on the cob or defrost a bag of frozen corn if you're truly desperate! No matter how it comes together, it's always a crowd … Continue reading Corn and Blueberry Salad
I love this salad! Mostly because it's so versatile (see substitutions) but also because it's a delicious crowd pleaser and can be made ahead. It's the perfect side dish or can serve as a main if you add protein. So get to it and come up with your own flavor combo and let me know … Continue reading Mediterranean Farro Salad
The Leigh Factor 