Celebrating Modern Jewish Living Through Food, Tradition, and Family

Orzo salad is a savory side or lunch flavored with zesty herbs, feta, crunchy almonds, and sweet tomatoes. This colorful dish is a perfect buffet go-to.
The Backstory: Truth be told, I was first introduced to orzo when I was a[…]-READ-MORE>
A foolproof, go-to recipe for cakes and cupcakes-it never fails!
The Backstory: Baking is by far, my favorite thing to do in the kitchen. It might have something to do with growing up in my dad’s bagel bakery, surrounded by ca[…]-READ-MORE>
The Backstory: This rice pilaf recipe is so rich in seasonings and all the veggies that makes it a dish I prepare all the time. I was interested in learning about the main ingredient, rice. I decided to do some research. I fin[…]-READ-MORE>
The ultimate in creamy comfort food–there won’t be a spoonful left!
The Backstory: There’s mac and cheese and then there’s mac and cheese. This recipe is the latter. This is one of those dishes that’s not just for grown ups: […]-READ-MORE>
No matter how fancy or casual your party, the fun doesn’t start without homemade pigs in a blanket–a traditional fan favorite!
The Backstory: Let’s be honest with each other: no matter how fancy the shindig or how high-end the […]-READ-MORE>
Watch your guests devour this luscious and creamy cake–you won’t have a single slice left.
The Backstory: My girlfriend, Lorraine, swears by this cheesecake. She used to make it all the time. I have yet to sample hers, but sh[…]-READ-MORE>
Kosher beef chili is a hearty-one pot meal that will warm (and fill) you up. Add a slice of challah for dipping for a truly scrumptious meal.
The Backstory: My cousin Claire gave me a bunch of her favorite recipes and when I s[…]-READ-MORE>
The Backstory: Recently I visited my cousin Clare. Among the many recipes she gave me one was for Chicken Divan. I love this woman. She is funny, smart and at times, well, don’t get her ire going. She stands maybe 5 feet tall[…]-READ-MORE>
The Backstory: Another one of those classic buffet and party salads, comes the sweet and crunchy Carrot and Raisin Salad. Why didn’t I appreciate this masterpiece all those years ago when it showed up at nearly every family bris[…]-READ-MORE>
Blini with smoked salmon are elegant appetizers that hit on all fronts: salty, creamy, and perfect two bite noshes.
The Backstory: I first went to The Russian Tea Room in 1999. I was 35 years old and as a born and bred New Yor[…]-READ-MORE>
The Backstory: I cannot remember a time when this velvety soup was not served for a holiday dinner. My mom never measured anything, and here I am trying to convert her favorite answer to my question, “how much of this or that” […]-READ-MORE>
Pasta with tomatoes and feta is a fresh, hearty, zesty lunch or dinner. Served hot, cold, or at room temp, it cooks quickly and is always a fan favorite.
The Backstory: Once again my friend Lorraine came thru with a classic pa[…]-READ-MORE>