Hello, my name is Kat. I hope you enjoy my collection of tasty dinner, lunch and breakfast recipes, influenced by my Eastern European roots as well as the amazing chefs like Julia Child and Jacques Pepin. As a mom, I put a lot of emphasis on healthy cooking with locally grown and organic ingredients. In the gardening section of my site, you will find some tips on growing your own fruits, vegetables and herbs. I hope this blog helps make your day in the kitchen just a little easier. Be sure to sign up to my newsletter at the bottom of the page. Pinky promise not to spam you, and only send the new recipes, and gardening tips your way on occasion. Good luck and Happy Cooking and Gardening!
Recipes
Being a busy parent, I tend to pick recipes that are easy to make and consist of ingredients that are fairly common. I am also happy to share my collection of recipes of traditional Russian dishes, such as borsch and other soups and stews perfect for a long winter season. You can learn how to make some of my family’s favorites, such as thin crepes that go great with fillings such as homemade fruit preserves, sour cream, and of course, caviar.
For special occasions, I particularly recommend my collection of French and European desserts.
Finally, be sure to check out my MENUS section, where I will share the recipe combinations that worked for me. When you try them out, be sure to contact me with your suggestions, and experiences.
Recipe of the Week
Coconut Macaroons
These macaroons are easy, fast to make, and delicious. They are by far the most popular out of all the desserts that I have made. Enjoy!
read moreNutella Crêpes
Oh my! Serve no more than two crepes per person or a post meal nap may be in order. It’s a whole meal on its own. I hope you enjoy it as much as we do!
read moreLazy Sunday Beef Stew
This is a great stew for a lazy Sunday afternoon. Brown everything, combine and let the oven do it’s magic as you enjoy a catnap or a good book.
read moreGrilled Ham Sandwich
Although you can use any bread and any cheese, good bread and great cheese do make this sandwich just a little bit more special.
read moreSautéed Mushrooms
There are a lot of questions on how to clean mushrooms. There are two basic methods. Either brush off each mushroom with a paper towel or wash them.
read moreLemon Roast Chicken
The best way to go is to prep this chicken the night before and refrigerate. The next day put it in the oven and dinner is ready. Enjoy with a nice wine!
read morePecan Shorties
30 minutes and dessert is ready. That is a win win at our house. Quick, easy and so good. We love these little cookies for a nice dessert.
read moreChicken Cakes
This is my mother’s go-to recipe. It’s quick, easy, and oh so delicious. Makes a great lunch, brunch, or dinner. Grab a glass of white wine and enjoy!
read moreChicken Wings
Quick, easy and so delicious – this is our favorite. Make them for lunch, dinner or watching the game. Grab a good beer and enjoy!
read moreRoulette a lá Russe
Unlike the Russian Roulette this one is much tastier and has a very pleasant ending. This makes a lovely and elegant dish for any dinner party.
read moreKat’s Boeuf Bourguignon
First tried from the Julia Child’s Mastering the Art of French Cooking – this is my version. Serve it with potatoes, butter noodles, pasta or even rice.
read moreSuperbowl Pork Stew
This is a perfect meal for a lazy Sunday. Brown everything, throw it in the oven, grab a glass of wine and enjoy your afternoon.
read moreRoasted Potatoes
Serve this as a side dish to a steak along with some roasted asparagus and a nice red wine. Easy and no hassle cooking is the point of this recipe.
read moreRoasted Asparagus
Asparagus has never been my favorite vegetable until I learned this recipe. Use it as a side dish to steak or fish and you won’t be disappointed
read moreChicken Stock
The history goes on and on but one thing is clear stock (broth without the actual solids) can take a dish from ok to wow in 2 seconds.
read more