Banana-Oat Soy Smoothie

For many years, I’ve always started Monday mornings with a fruit smoothie, then I have a salad for lunch and a light meal for dinner.  I simply call it Detox Monday. Weekends are usually intense, packed with high calorie foods and the occasional alcoholic beverages.  Fruit smoothies are fulfilling and refreshing.  I don’t know, but…

Spanish Shrimp Tapa

Tapas Españolas or Spanish Tapas are very much en vogue and are excellent alternatives to offer your guests.  Their purpose is to serve as a snack between meals, specially if you are having wine or alcoholic beverages.  In addition, a selection of tapas can easily replace a meal at an informal gathering. The word “tapear”…

Apple Strudel

In Puerto Rico we always have an excuse to celebrate.  I believe we are the number one country in the world with the most holidays in the calendar. We not only commemorate our own, but cheerfully adopt other countries’ festivities. My Puerto Rican friend Maryse is married to a German and recently moved from New…

Classic Meatballs

About a month ago, our niece Camelia texted me to see if I was available to teach her how to make meatballs.  One of her best friends was getting married and she didn’t want to come empty handed to the bridal shower, so she offered to bring meatballs as appetizers.  Needless to say, she didn’t…

Ensalada de Amarillos

Some people call ripe plantains amarillos other call them plátano maduro. Regardless of how you call it, you should know how to make this salad! It is very easy and refreshing.  I simply serve with mesclum salad or baby greens and warm goat cheese toasts. Also, is a great side dish to Arroz con Pollo….

Mama Italia’s Melenzane alla Parmigiana

Some people don’t like to share their recipes. Period. I have a great aunt who shares her recipes only with her family members and has told me that she will come after me if I publish them!  Even from the grave!!!!! Ja!  I truly respect that, especially with people that make money from their recipes…

Papaya-Banana Smoothie

My grandpa Abo has always been a great example of healthy living.  No excessive drinking or smoking, eating super nutritious foods and always being an athletic guy, training every afternoon until his 80’s.  His only weakness… SWEETS! For many years, he travelled the world representing Puerto Rico as part of the track and field team…

Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Sauce

I have tried this dish several times at restaurants and private parties.  One thing is for sure,  I always love it! Satay refers to marinated pieces of meat that are grilled or barbecued and served with a spicy peanut sauce as a side.  Its origins are found in Indonesia and is also a delicacy in…

Cherry or Blueberry Topping

When it comes to ice cream, I tend to be a vanilla-flavor kind of gal.  Nevertheless, I love to dress it up with fruit toppings, hot fudge, nutella, caramel or some sprinkles. During last week, we had our niece and nephew stay with us for a few days.  I had fresh cherries and fresh blueberries…