Celebrate Spring Dishes with Delicious Wine Pairs

Ah, the joys of spring, spring showers, spring flowers, spring vegetables, spring pollen, well maybe not that one, and spring cleaning. Spring symbolizes new life, and rejuvenation, our senses become alive again with the scents of spring and longer days allow us to spend more time enjoying evenings outdoors and al fresco dining albeit at home with safe social distancing. May is one of my favorite months of the year. I love the warmer temperatures and the occasional spring shower, that makes everything green, fresh and bright! There’s nothing like the fresh clean scent of a spring shower.

Of course, for me, the newness of spring is all about the food. Spring is a great time to lighten things up with a more delicate fare after the hearty dishes of winter. I love cooking with fresh spring vegetables this time of year, sweet peas, carrots, brussel sprouts, asparagus, leeks, butter lettuces, fennel and arugula. Fresh herb pestos are also a great way to add depth to lighter dishes with a fresh spring flavor. Spring is also a fun time to explore new lighter wine varietals after the hearty dishes and more robust wines of winter. Spring salads, soups, entrées and wines feel somehow energizing and new. Here are some of my favorite spring wines paired with Fun & Simple spring dishes like this month’s feature Spaghetti with Wilted Greens in a light and velvety sauce which pairs beautifully with a Sauvignon Blanc.

Photo courtesy Decoy Wines (decoywines.com)

This spring try a light Sauvignon Blanc, which is produced from a green skinned grape originally from the Bordeaux region (France) though now grown just about everywhere wine grapes are cultivated. It produces a crisp, light bodied and fresh flavor, which makes for a perfect pairing with the fresh flavors of spring vegetables. In fact, a well-aged Sauvignon Blanc is said to develop aromas of spring vegetables like asparagus and peas as it ages.  One of my favorites is Decoy Sonoma County Sauvignon Blanc from California.

 Another wonderful spring wine is Sancerre from the Loire River Valley.  Sancerre is similar to  Sauvignon Blanc, in fact it is a member of the Sauvignon Blanc family. Sancerre is produced in the Loire Valley, specifically the left bank of the Loire River. It’s medium bodied due to the minerals in the soil, yet delicate, floral and mildly acidic and pairs perfectly with goat cheeses, rich creamy bries, grilled fish, shellfish and chicken. 

Lighter fares of spring call for crisp, fresh and floral wine varietals. Give these a try, I think you will find your new favorite spring wine.

Pan Seared Halibut with Risotto Primavera & Sweet Pea Pesto, a delightfully mild fish, pan seared to crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside with creamy risotto and fresh pea pesto. Fresh spring pestos are a terrific way to bring flavor and depth to any dish, especially lighter fare. This one made with spring peas and basil is delicate yet so flavorful, a wonderful compliment to the mild fish and spring vegetable risotto. This dish is perfectly paired with a Sancerre from the Loire River Valley  with its floral mild acidity is a perfect balance with this mild and flaky fish, the complex flavors of the pesto and creaminess of the risotto. I’ve never met a Sancerre I didn’t thoroughly enjoy like the Domaine Fournier Les Belles Vignes.

Shrimp Provencal with fresh grilled shrimp in a luscious Provencal sauce topped with a fresh, simple basil pesto with garlic, toasted pine nuts and parmigiano-reggiano cheese, pairs perfectly with a Rose’ from Provence like Aix. It’s light salmon color, delicate and elegant nose, crisp balance and depth enhances the flavors of this true Provencal dish, bursting with the flavors of the Provence, fennel, capers, tomatoes, nicoise olives, and herbs de Provence, one of my all time favorite dishes.

The complex flavors of the Provence sauce are perfectly suited for the Grenache based Rose’s of the Provence with their notes of citrus and melon, crisp and light, usually produced with a blend of Grenache, Syrah and Cinsault grapes. There are so many great ones! One of my favorites, Aix, a crisp and light wine with a blend of Grenache, Syrah and Cinsault. A few more of my favorite spring dishes…

Asparagus & Leek Soup

Sweet Pea Butter Lettuce Salad

Lamb Chops with Mint Basil Pesto

Grand Marnier Souffle'

Sweet Pea & Proscuitto Salad with Romaine, Butter Lettuce, Shaved Parmigiano & Proscuitto, a well rounded side salad to compliment any spring dish. Asparagus & Leek Soup, fresh, green, soothing and healthy! Paired with a crisp light Sauvignon Blanc.

Grilled Lamb Chops with Mint/Basil Pesto, succulent lamb chops with a fresh minty pesto, paired perfectly with a nice California Cabernet Sauvignon-Merlot blend.  The rich earthiness of the lamb balanced with the fresh pesto calls for a bold red wine that’s not too heavy. One of my favorite blends is the Duckhorn Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. Rich and oaky yet perfectly balanced with the robustness of the Cabernet grape and lighter fruitiness of the Merlot.

And for dessert, this beautiful, light and decadent Grand Marnier Souffle’ with Grand Marnier Creme Anglaise. The perfect spring dessert with a light orange essence and fresh blackberries. Simple to prepare and oh so decadent. It pairs beautifully with your favorite sparkling wine, prosecco or champagne.

Enjoy these Spring Wine Pairings and Fresh Fun & Simple Spring Recipes! Remember to send me your photos of my dishes and tag them #gigistyle #funandsimplegourmet to be featured! If you haven’t already, don’t forget to download “Fun & Simple Gourmet” at iTunes for your Apple devices.

Wishing you all the joys of spring albeit at home with safe social distancing! Continue to be safe and well and enjoy these Fun & Simple Spring Dishes and Wine Pairings. Cheers!

5 Beautiful Fun and Simple Side Dishes For Thanksgiving Entertaining

So, you’re planning your Thanksgiving Feast and your stuck. You know you need a turkey, have to have mashed potatoes, got your favorite wine selected and your signature pumpkin pie, but you’re thinking, what in the world am I going to serve for side dishes. You want something different, not the same old thing, and you want fresh, colorful, delicious AND simple to prepare with so much else going on Thanksgiving Day. We’ve got you covered with these wonderful Fun & Simple side dishes to compliment your beautiful Thanksgiving celebration. This Roasted Acorn Squash with figs, proscuitto and parmigiano is a great place to start. Sweet and savory, perfect with all of your Thanksgiving dinner staples. Served at room temperature, this dish can be prepared completely in advance without any last minute prep or rushing around to get it on the table!

Being a vegetable person in general, I always want at least one green salad to compliment every festive holiday celebration, plus it’s great for digestion, especially when you know you are going to overeat anyway! This delicious Fig Balsamic Salad is one of my favorite salads anytime fresh figs are in season and isn’t it just wonderful that fig season happens fall during Thanksgiving! Figs are very rich in minerals like potassium and magnesium a super great source of antioxidants and high in fiber and deliciously sweet. The sweetness of the figs, peppery arugula, salty bite of the parmigiana and tartness of the fig balsamic dressing make this salad a match made in fig heaven!

I don’t know about you, but for me, it wouldn’t be a holiday dinner without Brussels Sprouts. So versatile, they can be prepared in so many different ways! I could do an entire blog, cookbook almost, just with variations of Brussels Sprouts recipes. They can also be prepared as a sweet or savory dish, or a combination. Add a little crispy chopped pancetta to any variation to add another whole layer of rich flavor. This year, I am going sweet, Roasted Brussels Sprouts in a sweet maple, olive oil, pomegranate and citrus syrup topped with crunchy fresh pomegranate seeds. Pomegranate is the super antioxidant and anti-inflammatory and with Brussels Sprouts’ high levels of fiber, minerals and vitamins and ability to help control blood sugar levels, you have one super healthy and delicious side dish. Should totally cancel out the salty crisp pancetta, that would certainly add a rich savory component right on top of this dish…right?!

Being a pasta girl, I always have to have a side of pasta or risotto on my holiday table. This year it will be my warm and soothing Porcini Mushroom Risotto with white truffle essence. I use the oven method for preparing the risotto and therefore it can be prepared mostly in advance, perfect for a holiday meal. Then it just takes a few minutes to finish while the rest of the dishes are being prepped for the table. Super Fun & Simple and incredibly delicious!

This dish is a great combination of a green salad and a squash dish, making it the perfect two-in-one side. I did this one with butternut squash, but I’ve also used acorn squash and sweet potatoes, all three are absolutely delicious and the combination of the green salad, crunchy toasted pecans, pomegranate seeds and creamy chevre goat cheese crumbles just scream holiday! Another beautiful and super healthy dish for any fall or winter festive celebration. You will see this Butternut Squash Salad again next month paired with my Pecan Salmon for a delicious Holiday Menu alternative which will feature lots of amazing pecan centric dishes...stay tuned for this one, you are going to love the recipes!

Stay tuned for a list of my favorite holiday desserts, just in case you need a few more Fun & Simple ideas this holiday season. And don’t forget to watch for the special edition Holiday Pecan Recipes coming out next month. When it comes to Fun & Simply Delicious and Elegant holiday entertaining, we’ve got you covered! If you don’t have your copy of Fun & Simple Gourmet yet, there’s still time to get it in time for your holiday entertaining…AND, it makes a super great holiday gift for the Foodie on your list! Filled with gorgeous photos and yummy Fun & Simple recipes for delicious enjoyment for every occasion all the year through!

Wishing you a very Happy and Grateful Thanksgiving. I’m feeling super blessed this year and hope that you are too! From our little island to wherever you are celebrating this year…HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

Spectacular Stone Fruit Season!

Plum Crumble - the perfect dessert to welcome the arrival of fall!

Have you noticed how beautiful and delicious the Stone Fruits are this time of year. I have been raiding the Farmers Markets for peaches, plums, cherries and apricots. Stone fruits not only offer lots of vitamins and nutrients, these super sweet beauties are also low in calories. I have been enamored with the plums this season. Did you know that the natural white film coating, called a “bloom” protects their skin and makes them juicy by keeping the moisture on the inside of the fruit. If the plums still have their bloom when purchasing, you can tell they have not been over handled, and they should be very juicy upon ripening. Filled with antioxidants, these sweet, juicy beauties are super heart and brain healthy and naturally low in calories. Check out the recipe for my Soothing Plum Crumble. It is amazing! (simply click on the photo!)

With so many delicious ways to enjoy, I thought I would share some of my favorite sweet and savory dishes with stone fruits this week. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner, fresh salads, appetizers and desserts, so many delicious options for enjoying fresh stone fruits while they last.  I am thrilled to pass on just a few of my Fun & Simple favorites to enjoy with your family. Don’t forget to share and send me your photos!

Peach Arugula Salad

Hearty Peach Bolognese

Soothing Plum Crumble

I hope you enjoy these fun and simple stone fruit recipes while savoring the beginning of fall! Stay tuned for lots of fall entertaining ideas, menus and delicious and comforting new recipes...In the meantime,

You will find lots of my favorite recipes in my new lifestyle cookbook. order yours today!

Honoring Mom!

Happy Mother’s Day Weekend! I took this photo in the Versailles Garden at the Four Seasons Ocean Club some time ago.  What struck me about this beautiful sculpture is the love and devotion that is so captivating between this woman and child.

Celebrating Mom the second Sunday in May began in 1908 when Anna Jarvis had a memorial service for her mother at St. Andrews Methodist Church in Grafton, West Virginia. Anna’s Mom, Ann Jarvis, a peace activist who took care of soldiers in the Civil War (on both sides), started Mother’s Day Work Clubs that brought attention to public health issues.  Anna wanted to continue and honor her mother’s work by proposing to Congress that Mother’s Day become an official holiday. Congress rejected the idea, but Anna did not give up and in 1914, Woodrow Wilson proclaimed the second Sunday in May, Mother’s Day, a national holiday.

We honor our Moms with cards and flowers, and a traditional Mother’s Day Brunch.  Of course, at our house, any celebration is all about the food! This Mother’s Day, I’ve shared one of my favorite Mother’s Day Brunch menu ideas with these Fun & Simple recipes.

Chocolate Strawberries

Lobster Benedict

Chocolate Soufflé

Wouldn’t Mom love to wake up to Chocolate Covered Strawberries? So simple to prepare and so much fun for the whole family to make! Then treat her to a wonderful Mother’s Day Brunch at home with my Eggs Benedict in this luscious and lemony lobster cream sauce with a delicious side of fresh Asparagus. And, who doesn’t love chocolate? My favorite special chocolate dessert is my Chocolate Soufflé, rich and decedent, but surprisingly light! Give it a little extra special love with warm Chocolate Crème Anglaise. Simply click on the photos for the recipes!

I wasn’t blessed with children of my own unfortunately, but have so many wonderful nieces, nephews, godchildren and other special children in my life who bless me each day and always make Mother’s Day a super special day for me! You can find all of these recipes and many more of my favorites in Fun & Simple Gourmet! Get your copy today at iTunes for your iPad and other Apple devices or hardcover copy right here on the website or at Amazon.com!

Wishing you and your family a most wonderful Mother’s Day Celebration! What are your plans to make Mom feel extra special this weekend? Don’t forget to send me your photos! And of course,

Spring into Lighter Fare with these Fresh Spring Dishes & Wine Pairings

Ah, the joys of spring, spring showers, spring flowers, spring vegetables, spring pollen, well maybe not that one, and spring cleaning. Spring symbolizes new life, and rejuvenation, our senses become alive again with the scents of spring and longer days allow us to spend more time enjoying evenings outdoors and al fresco dining. March is one of my favorite months of the year. I love the warmer temperatures during the day, but still cool enough for a sweater or jacket in the evening, and the occasional spring shower, that makes everything green, fresh and bright! There’s nothing like the fresh clean scent of a spring shower.

Of course, for me, the newness of spring is all about the food. Spring is a great time to lighten things up with a more delicate fare after the hearty dishes of winter. I love cooking with fresh spring vegetables this time of year, sweet peas, carrots, brussel sprouts, asparagus, leeks, butter lettuces, fennel and arugula. Fresh herb pestos are also a great way to add depth to lighter dishes with a fresh spring flavor. Spring is also a fun time to explore new lighter wine varietals after the hearty dishes and more robust wines of winter. Spring salads, soups, entrées and wines feel somehow energizing and new. Here are some of my favorite spring wines paired with my fun & simple spring dishes like this month’s featured recipe on my Recipe Page, Spaghetti with Wilted Greens in a light and velvety sauce.

This spring try a light Sauvignon Blanc, which is produced from a green skinned grape originally from the Bordeaux region (France) though now grown just about everywhere wine grapes are cultivated. It produces a crisp, light bodied and fresh flavor, which makes for a perfect pairing with the fresh flavors of spring vegetables. In fact, a well-aged Sauvignon Blanc is said to develop aromas of spring vegetables like asparagus and peas as it ages.  One of my favorites is Decoy Sonoma County Sauvignon Blanc from California.

 Another wonderful spring wine is Sancerre from the Loire River Valley.  Sancerre is similar to  Sauvignon Blanc, in fact it is a member of the Sauvignon Blanc family. Sancerre is produced in the Loire Valley, specifically the left bank of the Loire River. It’s medium bodied due to the minerals in the soil, yet delicate, floral and mildly acidic and pairs perfectly with goat cheeses, rich creamy bries, grilled fish, shellfish and chicken. 

Pan Seared Halibut with Risotto Primavera & Sweet Pea Pesto, a delightfully mild fish, pan seared to crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside with creamy risotto and fresh pea pesto. Perfectly paired with a Sancerre from the Loire River Valley  with its floral mild acidity is a perfect balance with this mild and flaky fish, the complex flavors of the pesto and creaminess of the risotto. I’ve never met a Sancerre I didn’t thoroughly enjoy like the Domaine Fournier Les Belles Vignes.

Shrimp Provencal, shown above served with angel hair pasta, with fresh grilled shrimp in a luscious Provencal sauce and sweet pea & basil pesto, pairs perfectly with the Sancerre, though the versatility of this dish also pairs nicely with a Rose’ from Provence or even a nice chilled Pinot Noir.

The complex flavors of the Provence sauce including, fennel, garlic, lemon, tomato, capers and olives are perfect for the medium bodied Sancerre or the pale colored Grenache based Rose’s of the Provence with their notes of citrus and melon, crisp and light, usually produced with a blend of Grenache, Syrah and Cinsault grapes. There are so many great ones! One of my favorites, Aix, a crisp and light wine with a blend of Grenache, Syrah and Cinsault. A few more of my favorite spring dishes…

Asparagus & Leek Soup

Sweet Pea Butter Lettuce Salad

Lamb Chops with Mint Basil Pesto with Red Wine Reduction

Sweet Pea & Proscuitto Salad with Romaine, Butter Lettuce, Shaved Parmigiano & Proscuitto, a well rounded side salad to compliment any spring dish. Asparagus & Leek Soup, fresh, green, soothing and healthy! Paired with a crisp light Sauvignon Blanc.

Grilled Lamb Chops with Mint/Basil Pesto, succulent lamb chops with a fresh minty pesto, paired perfectly with a nice California Cabernet Sauvignon-Merlot blend.  The rich earthiness of the lamb balanced with the fresh pesto calls for a bold red wine that’s not too heavy. One of my favorite blends is the Duckhorn Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. Rich and oaky yet perfectly balanced with the robustness of the Cabernet grape and lighter fruitiness of the Merlot.

Enjoy these Spring Wine Pairings and Fresh Fun & Simple Spring Recipes! Remember to send me your photos of my dishes and tag them #gigistyle #funandsimple to be featured! If you haven’t already, don’t forget to download “Fun & Simple Gourmet” at iTunes (click here) for your Apple devices. You can also order your hard copy edition here or at Amazon.com!

Wishing you all the joys of spring!

Some of my favorite Wine Tools to help you enjoy exploring Spring Wines!

It's Pumpkin Month!

Gingered Pumpkin Muffins with Dark Chocolate Glaze

It's time to transition into fall! I love the flavors of fall, especially pumpkin! This time of year, I use pumpkin in everything, from breakfast muffins to salads, soups, pastas and desserts. Sweet, savory and everything in between, there is nothing better than the taste of pumpkin to get you in the mood for fall weather and flavors. Whether you are serving these delicious muffins for breakfast or dessert, the warm aromatics will have you at first bite! Filled with pumpkin spices and ginger then drizzled with soothing dark chocolate, just one of these little delights will never be enough! Stay tuned for lots of wonderful pumpkin recipes coming up in the next few weeks. Not to worry, when it comes to fun & simple menu planning, you are at the right place. My simple and elegant recipes will save you time in the kitchen so you can enjoy healthy eating with your family and friends. #HealthyLifestyle #FunandSimple This week's feature, Gingered Pumpkin Muffins with dark chocolate glaze. (simply click on the photo for the recipe) Early fall comfort food at its best! You will find many of my favorite recipes in my new lifestyle cookbook!

Stay tuned for lots more about pumpkin and many more fun and simple pumpkin recipes. I hope you are enjoying your fall flavors and activities. Send me your photos and stories and don’t forget to share my recipes with your friends and family! Until next time…

A Delicious Late Summer Surprise

Where did summer go? I don’t know about you, but didn’t this one seem especially fast? The highlight for me was my birthday weekend when Jeff surprised me with a wonderful birthday dinner celebration in a spectacular wine cellar. I knew he was up to something, but would never let on and spoil his surprise, of course.  We spent the night before at the wonderfully chic Perry Lane Hotel in Savannah, Georgia enjoying the day in the city and the rooftop terrace at the hotel.

Then, when I arrived at the venue for dinner, I was be greeted by 20 of our closest friends…surprise right! But that wasn’t even close to being the real surprise. As I was seated at the table and read the beautifully crafted menu for the evening, I noticed something super special, the menu was comprised entirely of dishes from my new book! In honor of the launch this month, Jeff had arranged with the chef to prepare the evening’s event with an appetizer, a choice of 3 entrée’s and dessert all from Fun & Simple Gourmet. Needless to say, I was more than surprised, speechless in fact (which is not easy for me…ha!) and so touched that Jeff arranged such a special evening with our dearest friends.  Chef Nick at the South Carolina Yacht Club was so gracious and prepared the dishes perfectly, everyone thoroughly enjoyed the delicious food, incredible wines and beautiful evening in this magical setting.

I thought it would be fun to share the menu Jeff and Chef Nick selected as well as the recipes, all from Fun & Simple Gourmet. Now available here on the website, Amazon and select independent book stores and kitchen shops. (Click on the photos for these recipes!)    

Scallops Marnier

Trout Amandine

Veal Piccata

Citrus Glazed Salmon

Tiramisu Trifle

Fun & Simple Gourmet

It’s hard to believe we are already into our normal back to school routines, shorter days and fall flavors. I love cooking in the fall and now ready for the temperatures to become a little cooler, it sure still feels like summer! Enjoy your last days of summer weather and in the meantime…

With Chef Nick in the Wine Cellar at the beautiful South Carolina Yacht Club. Chef and his staff were amazing with every detail for our very special evening. I was so honored to have Chef Nick prepare my dishes from Fun & Simple Gourmet. Everything was superb! Many thanks Chef!

Just Peachy Recipes for National Eat A Peach Week!

Peach Amaretto Crisp

In honor of National Eat A Peach Day this week, I thought I would share some of my favorite sweet and savory peach dishes this week. I have had a wonderful summer in the kitchen creating new fun and simple recipes with all of the wonderful fresh summer fruits and vegetables, especially peaches.  They have been so incredibly delicious this year, and I have had so much fun with my favorite stone fruit. From peach waffles to a rich and hearty Bolognese, fresh salads, appetizers and desserts, so many delicious options for enjoying fresh summer peaches while they last.  I am thrilled to share a few of my favorites with you to enjoy with your family. Don’t forget to share and send me your photos!

Peach Waffles

Peach Amaretto Crisp

Mid Summer Bruschetta

Peach Ricotta Salata

Peach Bolognese

Peach Blueberry Crumble

I hope you are having a super fun National Eat a Peach Week! Time to pack in lots of summer fun during these last few weeks left before fall is upon us. What are your late summer plans? We have been enjoying the cool Colorado Rockies this month, especially the fabulous local farmers markets and fresh and delicious Palisades peaches while escaping the August heat and humidity on the southeast coast. Summer sure is going by quickly! Hope you enjoy these fun and simple peach recipes while savoring these last days of summer...In the meantime,

Super fun birthday lunch at Sweet Basil, Vail

You will find lots of my favorite recipes in my new lifestyle cookbook. Pre-order yours today!

Gone Nuts...for Peanuts!

One of the biggest food trends this year has been non-dairy milk alternatives, mostly plant based nut milks. Replacing dairy is a great way to enhance your healthy lifestyle! This week's blog includes several fantastic and delicious recipes using peanut milk, both plain and chocolate, from protein packed breakfast muffins, to light and healthy pasta, warm soothing fish curry and decadent desserts, like these gorgeous Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Cupcakes!

In addition to being high in protein, other incredible health benefits associated with peanuts include biotin, an enzyme healthy B vitamin, heart healthy monounsaturated fats which lower stroke and heart attack risk, antioxidants that neutralize free radicals and reduce cancer risk and consuming peanuts may even protect you from gallstones!

You've seen them all, almond milk, cashew, walnut, even hazelnut milk, but this is the first Peanut Milk, introduced by Elmhurst 1925. (@elmhurst1925) Peanut milk is dairy-free, non-GMO, vegan, lactose free and Kosher. With today's trends in food, turning to a more plant based protein diet, as a replacement for dairy products, nut milks have become a viable and popular alternative. In addition to their already produced almond, hazelnut, cashew, walnut and grain milks (oatmeal & brown rice), Elmhurst (@elmhurst1925) has developed the first peanut milk (regular and chocolate!) and it is delicious! 

They use a patented process called cold milking, producing a nut milk that is super creamy, flavorful and maintains the nutritional integrity of whole, raw Georgia peanuts (@gapeanuts) free of stabilizers, emulsifiers, gums or other chemicals typically used in nut milking and 6 grams of protein in every 8 ounces! (8 grams in the Chocolate variety)

I was honored to be asked, in conjunction with @Foodiechats and the Georgia Peanut Commission (@gapeanuts) to test the product in my kitchen where I had so much fun creating new dishes and improvising with some of my old ones. Check out these amazing recipes using peanut milk! From smoothies and protein packed muffins to start your day, to light and delicious pasta, warm and soothing fish curry and decadent peanut milk desserts! Simple to prepare and oh so tasty! (Simply click on the photos for the recipes!)

With all of these beautiful and delicious options, you can see why I went Nuts for Peanuts and had so much fun cooking with Elmhurst 1925 Milked Peanuts! Not to mention the many health benefits of peanuts!  Can't wait for you to try the recipes and please, send me your photos after you've prepared one of mine, or created one of your own! Hope you are enjoying the start of your summer...

Vivid Veges! It's National Vegetarian Week

A rainbow of fresh...look at all of this beautiful healthy color! 

It is national vegetarian week and what a great time to jump start a healthy lifestyle going into summer! This time of year is perfect for eating a little lighter as the temperatures begin to heat up and of course we want to look and feel good in our summer attire and swim wear. (check out the photos and recipes of some of my favorite vegetarian dishes below!)

There are a multitude of benefits related to a mostly plant based diet rich in fiber, folic acid, vitamins C, E and magnesium. In addition to feeling better, lowering cholesterol, blood pressure and risk of heart disease, many studies suggest that eating a vegetarian diet can improve your mood, reduce the risk of diabetes, certain types of cancer, cataracts, and even kidney stones!

Eating “Vegetarian” doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor, in fact, most dishes that do not include meat have more flavor and are very satisfying. Here are a few of my favorites! I did throw a couple of vegetarian pasta dishes in the mix, but they can be prepared with gluten-free pasta or zucchini ribbons or spirals to keep them super healthy! (click on images for recipes)

“Vegetarians” come in several varieties. The common denominator of course is that none of these vegetarian diets described below include meat.

Vegan: (total vegetarians) whose diet includes only plant based foods.

Lacto-Ovo: whose diet includes only plant based foods, but do consume eggs and dairy.

Lacto: whose diet includes only plant based foods and dairy products.

Ovo: whose diet includes only plant based foods and eggs (no dairy)

Pescatarian: whose diet includes plant based foods and fish

Pollo-Vegetarian: whose diet includes plant based foods and chicken

Partial-Vegetarian: whose diet includes plant based foods, chicken and fish

I have been a Pescatarian most of my life.  Due to my A blood type (natural vegetarian) and a very sensitive digestive system, I consume mostly plant-based foods along with fish (no more than 2-3 times per week).  My weakness is definitely carbohydrates, I love my pasta, my favorite comfort food, but should be consumed in moderation due to the glycemic index (sugar content). I will touch on this in another blog coming soon.

Join me in celebrating National Vegetarian Week by sticking with a diet rich in plant-based foods (at least 80%) and maybe a serving or 2 of your favorite fish or chicken this week, and let me know how you are feeling by week’s end! I guarantee you will have more energy, sleep better and maybe even shed a few unwanted pounds! Can’t wait to hear your thoughts and experiences, and don’t forget to share photos of the “vegetarian” dishes you enjoyed this week! Cheers...

Pretty in Pink on National Chocolate Cupcake Day!

We are coming out in Pink...and Dark Chocolate to recognize and support Breast Cancer Awareness Month! I don't know of any better combination than Chocolate and Pink Champagne!

These Chocolate Ganache Cupcakes are the bomb! So rich and velvety, and for an extra special touch for Breast Cancer Awareness Month, I added a little Rose' Glaze for a touch of pink!  Having a little dark chocolate craving? I've included a gluten free version!

Click Here for the recipe!

And you thought Rose' was only a summer beverage...Check out the Rose' All Day Wine and Music Festival in Dallas, October 29th! In support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the event will donate $1 from every ticket to the AIRS Alliance for reconstructive surgery. 

I say Rose' All Year!!!

My Angel, Jeff, pretty in pink to honor Breast Cancer Awareness, enjoying @whisperingangel Rose' ... All he needs is one of my chocolate ganache cupcakes! 

It's Ski Season! Great Snow...Let's Go!

Ritz Carlton Bachelor Gulch, Avon, Colorado

Welcome to my favorite log cabin in the world!  Jeff and I have spent our summers in this amazing log cabin for the past 10 years, but when it comes to skiing, there is not a better full service, ski-in, ski-out destination anywhere in the Rockies.  

Apres Ski in the Grotto!

Then, after a great day on the slopes, soak your muscles in the soothing hot water in the Grotto!  Does it get better than this?  I don't think so!  

Maybe a swim in the heated pool looking up the slopes?  

Buffalo's Bar & Grill

After a swim or a soak, a nice dinner and bottle of wine, maybe a cognac and cigar in Bachelor's Lounge, it is nighty night until first tracks tomorrow!  

Holiday Series Continued - Christmas Breakfast!

gigiwilson.com/panettone-french-toast

Is there a better Christmas Morning Breakfast Tradition than Panettone French Toast?  I think not!  With a hot cup of coffee and a tall cool mimosa...breakfast heaven!

For more holiday menu ideas, visit gigiwilson.com/thedish

gigiwilson.com/recipes

Holiday Series Continued - Georgia Pecan Tart

Still need a fabulous dessert option for Christmas Dinner?  My super rich and nutty pecan tart could be the perfect answer!   May you have a super scrumptious holiday!  #happyholidays #pecantart #gigistyle #cookingfun

gigiwilson.com/georgia-pecan-tart

Holiday Series Continued - Chateaubriand

If you are still in need of a fabulous idea for Dinner Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, try my Chateaubriand.  It is elegant, yet easy to prepare and simply melts in your mouth.  You will find this and more simply elegant recipe ideas at gigiwilson.com/recipes.

gigiwilson.com/chateaubriand

Holiday Series Continued - Gigi Bellini

How about a Holiday Bellini ~ Gigi Style!

There is nothing like a fun and festive cocktail to begin a holiday celebration.  This tall, cool and cheerful glass of bubbly magic is all you need to make merry!!!

3 ounces Prosecco                                                

2 ounces Pomegranate Juice                              

1 splash Grand Marnier (orange liqueur)

Finish with a ring of fresh orange zest and let the bubbles tickle your nose and the soiree begin!

That's what I call a celebration in a glass! Wishing you the Happiest of Holidays...

More holiday cheer and menu planning ideas coming soon!  Keep checking gigiwilson.com for the latest recipes for a joyous holiday!

A perfect holiday side dish - Roasted Vegetables

Roasted Fall Vegetable Salad

Porc l'orange Gigi Style!  

Beautiful and delicious roasted fall harvest vegetables make a stunning side for any meal right through the holidays.  A perfect accompaniment to your Christmas Turkey, Roasted Rib Roast, Beef Tenderloin or Crown Roast of Pork.  These gorgeous roasted brussel sprouts, red, yellow and orange beets, shallot and roasted South Georgia pecans, combined with orange segments and an orange-apple cider vinaigrette, will be the highlight of your holiday table...and oh so healthy!  

With my Porc l'orange for Christmas Eve Dinner...Absolutely!  More holiday menu ideas coming soon!  

Link to recipe:  gigiwilson.com/porc-lorange

Fall Harvest Series Continued - Wine

Duckhorn Vineyards Chardonnay - Napa Toyon Vineyard

Decoy Sonoma, a formidable member of the Duckhorn Family of Fine Wines.  One of the  best values in quality wines available today.

Thank you @Duckhornwines for introducing us to your latest releases.  Among them a few of my new favorites!  2014 Duckhorn Chardonnay Napa Toyon Vineyards, 2014 Decoy Merlot Sonoma and 2015 Decoy Sauvignon Blanc Sonoma.  Utilizing a mix of Estate vineyards and growers throughout the Sonoma and Napa Valley, these fine wines from the Duckhorn family have set a high standard for American Fine Wine.  I now know what we will be serving with Thanksgiving Dinner!

From a mid to late October harvest, to the first part of November when fermentation is complete, it is time to press the grapes and transfer the wine to barrels where it will age and mature until the perfect time for bottling.

When it is time for sipping, first look at the wine for clarity and appealing color.  Then aerate the wine, swirling your glass by the base and enjoy the aroma (aka "nose") absorbing the wine's flavors and aromatics.  Lastly, holding the glass by the stem (never the bowl), sip and enjoy!

Beautiful grapes ready for fall harvesting!

Holiday Travel Tips for Everyday Travel!

Have Suitcase...Will Travel!

A light dusting of snow on the Blackberry Farm, Walland, Tennessee

Holiday travel season is here, as if we need more stress this time of year.  Since I seem to be preparing to be "on the road" most of the time, friends always ask how I eliminate the stress of travel prep.  #traveltips #gigistyle  

Practice makes perfect as they say, and after many years of doing it, I pretty much have it down to an art.  Holiday season travel is exciting, but seems to bring with it an added level of stress by nature.  Holiday travel is meant to be fun…so let’s see what we can do to help keep it that way!

First make a packing list of the types of items you will need, depending on your destination and planned activities.  Packing smart is the key to stress free travel.   

Pack light!  Choose knits and cottons, fabrics that don’t wrinkle easily. I can actually go for two weeks in a carry-on bag, I know what you are thinking, impossible right?  Stick with me here.  Pick a color and plan around it using the Rule of Three.  No more than three bottoms and/or 3 tops that are interchangeable among each other, this is where your color selection comes in, plus it really makes choosing what to take so much easier!  Pack layers and ladies don’t forget a little black dress, the most versatile item in your closet.  Dark fabrics don’t show stains and can be worn more often.  If you roll clothes, place those items on the bottom of your bag and folded items on top.  Pack small light colored clothes and undergarments in Ziploc bags, squeezing all the excess air out.

Think what you can do without, and don’t pack it!  Only take jewelry that you are actually wearing to travel, which not only keeps is simple, but also helps to prevent leaving a “little” something behind. 

Shoes:  Rule of Three.  Pack one pair of dress shoes and one pair of casual shoes, and of course, if you plan to visit the gym or hit the tennis courts, one pair of tennis/workout shoes.  Stuff shoes with sunglasses, charge cords, other smaller items that will fit inside.  If you are taking your golf clubs, don’t forget to utilize extra space in your golf travel bag for items that would take up unnecessary space in your suitcase, shoes in particular, tennis rackets, etc. 

Pack liquids and cosmetics in small travel containers and place in sealed Ziploc bags, which helps with organization and prevents leakage.  Place vitamins and supplements in Ziploc bags avoiding bottle bulk.  

If you are traveling by air, ladies, always carry a wrap or sweater on the plane.  And children should pack (with supervision of course) and carry their own bag!  I see some of the cutest roller bags being pulled by the most proud children when I’m traveling.

Preparing your home:  Turn off toilets, or water altogether.  Pour a little bleach in the toilets.  Turn off the icemaker and remove the all but a couple of ice cubes.  This way you will know if you had a loss of power while you are away.  Chances are if the cubes have melted, the food in your freezer has also thawed at some point.  Remove foods and condiments from the refrigerator that will be spoiled by the time you return.  Leave closet doors ajar for air circulation and in summer or warmer climates, leave AC turned on to 78-80 (F) degrees, winter heat on 60-65 (F).

There you have it.  Stress free travel…just in time for the holidays!

If you haven’t made holiday travel plans as yet and you are still looking for a fabulous destination for you and your family to spend time together in an amazing setting with incredible culinary…my holiday dish list recommendation – Blackberry Farm,  Walland, Tennessee.  Happy Traveling!

It's all about the Pumpkin!

Pumpkin Ravioli Gigi Style:  www.gigiwilson.com/pumpkin-ravioli

It's all about fall and the flavors of the season...Pumpkin Season!  This week it's Pumpkin Ravioli with brown butter, sage and walnuts.  My fav fall comfort food, and of course, it involves pasta!

Stay tuned for more perfect pumpkin recipes as part of our Fabulous Fall Flavors campaign