Squash Casserole

Doc’s garden is coming in and the produce not eaten by the chipmunks is beautiful! The chipmunks have taken over our yard with an underground maze of tunnels. One of their entry points is in our garden. I guess they … Continue reading

Norman’s Cast Iron Filets and Italian Grilled Vegetables

Norman Gray otherwise known as “The Normanator,” is a grill master. He has been in Healthcare Engineering for over 35 years, and is the world’s biggest UNC Tar Heel fan. He plays trumpet with the Johnson City Community Concert Band … Continue reading

Balsamic Grilled Vegetables

This recipe is a great addition to any meal. Slightly charring the vegetables on the grill caramelizes them and gives them a hint of smoke. The balsamic vinaigrette adds just the right touch of acidity to compliment the sweetness of … Continue reading

Italian Zucchini and Tomatoes

This is a very simple side dish. Doc says it tastes “clean” because you can taste the flavors of the zucchini, tomatoes and onions individually. I roast zucchini and onions before adding them to the tomatoes. This prevents them from … Continue reading

Stir Fried Wild Rice Blend with Mushrooms, Carrots and Swiss Chard

For those of you trying to eat more whole grains and vegetables, this stir fry is the ticket. You will never miss the meat because the mushrooms and soy sauce add rich, umami flavor. The mushrooms are soft and meaty. … Continue reading

Grown up Macaroni and Cheese with Wild Mushrooms, Spinach, and Country Ham

This dish pairs well with juicy steaks, prime rib and thick pork chops. The recipe uses Gruyere cheese named after the Gruyere valley of Fribourg, Switzerland. Gruyere has a nutty earthy flavor that compliments the wild mushrooms. Swiss cheese has … Continue reading

Maple Roasted Acorn and Butternut Squash

Maple Roasted Butternut and Acorn Squash is the perfect side dish for any menu. The maple syrup caramelizes as the squash bakes and adds just a hint of sweetness. Enjoy! Maple Roasted Butternut and Acorn Squash 1 acorn squash cut … Continue reading

Italian Marinara Green Beens

Plain green beans can be boring. I like to spice things up with this Italian version. They are so good you will keep coming back for more! Italian Marinara Green Beans 1 ½ pounds fresh French green beans2 tablespoons olive … Continue reading

Summertime Corn

Every August, when I was growing up, my mother would buy a bushel of silver queen corn. Early in the morning we would drive to the farmer’s market for her to inspect the corn. First, she would smell it. Then … Continue reading