Credit Patti Baratta

This time of year, I start yearning for fresh, local produce. I was surprised to find locally-grown strawberries already at Orlando’s Produce on Mexico Road. The berries just started...

Credit Patti Baratta

In many homes, ham is an Easter staple. Ham is top dog, it is the main event. But typically, there are leftovers and frugal people everywhere will be eating ham sandwiches for lunch for t...

Credit Patti Baratta

Growing up in a Polish-Italian-German Catholic family, Easter was a joyous event preceded by days of cooking. We dyed Easter eggs on Good Friday but couldn’t eat them until Saturday ...

Credit Patti Baratta

A light, quick dinner on the patio is one of my favorite ways to usher in the spring weather: Simple food, a glass of wine and great friends makes a perfect evening. A mix of appetiz...

Credit Patti Baratta

Baseball’s Opening Day means that spring is upon us. Spring and caramel corn are not a typical association, but I could not help myself this week. “Take me out to the ballgame” ran t...

Credit Patti Baratta

It is no secret that I love Valenti’s Meat Market & Bakery on Mexico Road. It is no secret that my family would eat their Sazziza sausage in any way, shape or form. I always have...

Credit Patti Baratta

Quinoa seems to be the grain of the moment (it is actually a seed, not a grain). Recipes are now popping up in magazines and on cooking shows. Trainers and athletes have known its value f...

Credit Patti Baratta

Fish frys are great for an easy Lenten dinner. But week after week, even the most delicious fish can get old. I look forward to the venerable fish fry season, but then again, I can e...