Food memories of 2008…
2008 was a busy year, but I still managed to make time to cook some delicious eats. This holiday season was no exception, and between working and biking (and blogging) I had the opportunity to put together some great holiday dishes.
Thanksgiving
T-gives was great fun. I had the entire week off of work to plan and execute an inspired vegetarian feast. Although some of my guests were weary of a turkey-less T-gives, in the end everyone was full, happy and satisfied. Check out the full menu complete with plenty of food porn and recipes!
Hanukah
Although I don’t officially celebrate Hanukuh (or Christmas for that matter), I did find it an excuse to make Latkes for the first time ever. They turned out pretty good and made an excellent brunch dish alongside a feta-arugula frittata and fresh croissants from the farmer’s market.
My Supervisor’s December Birthday Party
For a late December birthday party, I decided to forgo the idea of Christmas Cookies, and make one of my favorite desserts: Canelés. These lovely little vanilla and rum flavored treats are chewy on the outside and creamy on the inside.
And as an insurance policy against feeling inundated with sweets, I also brought a savory snack to the party. These cool cucumber cups are filled with tangy red pepper hummus, making for a light, healthy and fun snack.
Christmas
For Christmas dinner, I collaborated with a friend and her vegetarian family to make an Italian feast, featuring homemade ravioli. The process of making the ravioli was great, because it involved the participation of everyone. Rolling dough, filling the centers, and pressing the mold… many hands make light work, and delicious ravioli! The filling was a mix of homemade ricotta (made from grass-fed California milk), local aged gouda, garlic, basil, red onion and yellow chard.
2008 was filled with many memorable food experiences. I’m always pleased to find that my food tastes are ever evolving. The things I ate in 2008 were very different from what I ate in 2007. I’m excited to see what is on the 2009 culinary horizon.
Related Posts
Planning T-gives 2008
Thanksgiving 2008
Canelés
Red Pepper Hummus in Cucumber Cups