I am a fan of Stuffed Potato Skins. They are hearty and healthy (after all, most of the nutrients and fiber in a Russet potato are in the skin)! Bring them to a gathering and you become everyone’s new BFF. Serve them at the pre-game tailgate to get your friends fueled up …
Dulce de Leche Brie in Puff Pastry
What do you make for a cocktail party or impromptu gathering when you want to impress AND still have time to get dressed? Well, if you you are fortunate enough to have been gifted homemade Dulce de Leche or savvy enough to have some stowed in your fridge, your problem is solved! …
Bucatini Pasta with Pancetta and Sun Dried Tomatoes
It has been Winter chilly in Charlotte this week! I craved a quick to prepare dish that was warm, comforting and ample enough for leftover servings. Bucatini pasta with Pancetta and Sundried Tomatoes to the rescue! If you are acquainted with Bucatini, you already appreciate …
Triple “T” Chili
I must say, I really love this chili. It has the hearty, stick to your ribs quality that I expect from a good bowl of red. Thankfully, this chili has packs a protein punch that will not side line you for the afternoon if you over indulge with an extra bowl (or two!). Triple “T” …
Apple Bourbon Streusel Bars with Bacon Shortbread Crust
The weather is cooler and the local mountain apples are filling the aisles at the farmer’s market. I was craving all things apple and wanted something portable, satisfying and fun to make for this weekend’s tailgate. Hand pies, while a great portable option, do not have the pop …
White Cheddar Whipped Potatoes with Bacon Pancetta Crust
For this weekend’s tailgate, I wanted to add a bit of elegance to a tried and true mashed potato side dish. A delicious casserole of whipped Yukon gold potatoes and white cheddar cheese gets ramped up with a crunchy crust of bacon, pancetta and caramelized onions. This yummy side …
Chipotle Sausage Bacon Pinwheels
My four children have all been active in high school and year round sports teams. Taylor, as many of you know, was a Division I distance swimmer in college. My youngest son, currently a high school Senior, will play Division I lacrosse in college. These facts mean that I am …
Original Red Roasted Cauliflower Salad
Upon my arrival in Lafayette, I relaxed into the familiar embrace of South Louisiana humidity. In less than 30 miles I was transported to a world unchanged by mixed use zoning and familiar neon signs. I passed through the gate house and onto Avery Island. Past swamps and marshes …
Garlic Tabasco London Broil
I have a confession to make. I am a longtime fan of seasoning and cooking with Tabasco. You know this if you are familiar with Taylor Takes a Taste or The Southern Tailgating Cookbook. You may not know that my father, Carl James, introduced me to Tabasco while I spent a college …
Shrimp Salad
Memorial Day has come and gone. School is out and Summer is here. The seafood vendors have returned to the Farmer’s market. (Yes!) Their large, white ice chests were filled with beautiful, fresh shrimp. I called Taylor and announced I was making shrimp salad. Light, …