2010 Favorites

Dear reader,

With 55 posts this year, 2010 turned out to be a very productive one. In addition to my blog's first birthday, my husband and I have enjoyed a year of healthy, delicious, homemade meals and snacks. I hope a few of them have made their way into your kitchen too. Some of my highlights are below.


Favorite Soup(s) This Year:
it is a tie between

Beef and Barley Soup

the hearty beef and barley soup, and

Roasted Red Pepper Soup

the creamy roasted red pepper soup. (Clickable link below each picture)

Most Repeated Recipe This Year, in my own kitchen:

Empanadas

empanadas, which can be filled with virtually anything and are a lot more filling than one might expect.


Favorite Dessert:

Honey Banana Bread

since I've become a fan of less intense sweetness in my desserts, this honey banana bread is still one of my most delicious memories.

What are some of your favorites from 2010? What would you like to see more of in 2011?

I hope you all have a wonderful new year!

Cheers,
Ally

Party Food Ideas - 2010

While I've got a few posts about pie in the works, I know that many people are attending or hosting holiday parties this time of year. If you're like me, you're probably pulling your hair out trying to create an array of snacks that will please your guests.

Allow me to present my recommendations for your next get together.

• A new go-to favorite of mine is the gluten-free Cream Cheese Stuffed Jalapeños 

• These were a hit at my birthday party last year - Carrot Cake Cookies with Lemon Glaze

• Dip some veggies in some (gluten-free) Garlic Hummus or Tahini Dressing

• Go classic with some chips and Cooked Tomato Salsa

• For someone who's averse to processed sugars, perhaps they'd enjoy a few slices of Honey Banana Bread

• To enjoy some treats warm out of the oven, I recommend Brie, Pear, and Brown Sugar Crostini.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!