Something Stringy - Baked Spaghetti Squash

Say "squash" to my boyfriend. And when you do, watch his eyes. They widen, then they squint. "Squash" is not a trusted veggie in our house. Well, at least, it`s not trusted in half of our house. 

I, on the other hand, have fond memories of helping my mom make spaghetti squash, although, admittedly I cant actually remember eating it.

There are many many many ways to preparing this particular squash, this is one of my favourites though, a veg version of "white trash pasta", pretty simple with butter, salt & pepper, minced garlic and Parmesan cheese. 

For The Love of Veggies - Tempura

Tempura is so easy. I never took any notice before, but it really is. And again, like most easy things (muffins, sloppy joe's, gravy...) you could go to Safeway and pick up a tempura mix, add water and go. But (again), why would you when this is so much easier and better? I will admit that while I was making this for dinner for myself the timing was a little tricky, word to the wise - asparagus and carrots take the longest. I used a wok filled with canola oil, but if you have a deep frier, that would work perfectly too. I do believe that you could do a gluten-free version of this, I will let you know what I find. I suppose this really isn't the healthiest way to enjoy veggies, but some days - like today - that just doesn't matter.

Summer Salad Series - Florida Sunshine

This salad came into being while I was rocking out to one of my favourite obscure indie bands, As Fast As. They have the most awesome song called, wait for it, Florida Sunshine (ha - you didn't see that one coming did you). I wont torture you with a rendition myself (Google it yourself, it's fantastic) but it's everything this salad is, punchy, catchy and little fresh. 

Veggies in Man Food Heaven - Grilled Cheesy Tomatoes

 I've been looking for something that's easy. I know, that's a rather a broad statement.

What I mean is, I've been in search of an easy side dish which can be popped onto the BBQ to accompany steaks, chicken, ribs, whatever. I have the tendency to serve the same garlic bread and salad with corn ears when BBQing in the summer. Not that I have any objection (obviously) to making new and different things, it`s just, well I love salad, garlic toast and corn on the cob. And really, who will fault me for that? Anyway, despite all of this, I went looking anyway.

And I have finally found one.

Summer Salad Series - Mango, Prawn & Avocado

It's finally summer! Time to bring out the salads!
This one is great as a meal or as a side.

A Side of Class - Zinfandel Asparagus

I'm going to have to repeat myself. (sorry). I love asparagus. It's a so versatile, you can try to do everything with it, only, please don't steam the hell out of it, that would make me sad.

This particular success is the end result of a culinary experiment. It's fantastic.  This would be awesome with roast chicken and rice. I ate it standing at the counter reading back issues of Vogue, but it really does deserve a special place at the table. Srsly. Try this, it's awesome.

A side of ease, please! - Balsamic Asparagus

I love asparagus! Unfortunately, my boyfriend doesn't share my enthusiasm for it. However, he does enjoy it like this. Remember to trim the spears well, not one like finding tough ends.