Maggie’s Menu: Basil + Mint Pesto Scallops

Posted by magpie
On August 22, 2016

Message from Maggie: We always do scallops the same way (see here). One of the most fun things about this blog is that it inspires me to make things I’ve never tried rather than the same-old same-old. We planted mint in our herb garden and beyond using it as an ingredient in Mr. Magpie’s bourbon, […]

Maggie’s Menu: Key Lime Pie

Posted by magpie
On August 20, 2016

Message from Maggie: We were invited to two parties this weekend and I offered to bring dessert. While in search of inspiration at the grocery I ran into key limes and decided it was a sign to make a pie. I used the smitten kitchen’s recipe with a few alternations- and I doubled it making […]

Maggie’s Menu: How to Pick a Peach

Posted by magpie
On August 17, 2016

Message from Maggie: After my how to pick a pineapple post, I got a question about peaches. Before you reach for a peach, below are some tips. Instructions: Smell: You are seeking a fragrant sweet smell. See: Choose a peach that is vibrant in tone and color. If it has any green put it back- it […]

Maggie’s Menu: How to Cut a Pineapple in 8 steps

Posted by magpie
On August 13, 2016

Message from Maggie: A friend recently told me that she doesn’t buy pineapples because cutting them is intimidating! Here is a quick tutorial to get you motivated for your next trip to the produce aisle. Instructions: Cut the crown (top) off. Cut the bottom off. Stand the pineapple on one end, and cut the pineapple […]

Maggie’s Menu: How to Pick a Pineapple

Posted by magpie
On August 12, 2016

Message from Maggie: A friend recently told me that she doesn’t buy pineapples because cutting them is intimidating! Before I get to that, here is a quick tutorial on how to pick the perfect pineapple. Instructions: Smell: Smell the pineapple from the bottom. You are pursuing a sweet and fresh scent. See: Choose a pineapple […]

Maggie’s Menu: Crispy Rosemary Potatoes

Posted by magpie
On August 4, 2016

Message from Maggie: My oldest friend Laura made these potatoes when I was visiting her a few weekends ago. The parchment paper is key in making them crispy! Ingredients: Small potatoes (Note: I used small red potatoes and fingerling) Rosemary Olive oil Salt and pepper to taste Parchment paper Instructions: Preheat oven 350 degrees. Cut […]

Maggie’s Menu: Grilled Green Shrimp

Posted by magpie
On August 2, 2016

Message from Maggie: I created this marinade from herbs in my garden. It was a a delicious summer inspired taste. Ingredients: 1/4 t. red pepper flake (more if you like it spicy!) 5 sprigs parsley, minced 1/8 t. pepper 1 shallott, minced 1 T. lemon 1 T. lime 2 T. white wine 6 basil leaves, […]

Maggie’s Menu: Corn and Potato Salad

Posted by magpie
On July 24, 2016

Message from Maggie: Its 100 degrees in DC! Help us. We had friends for dinner and made steak, asparagus, green salad, and wanted a cool side. This is an altered recipe from Better Homes and Gardens that my mother in law shared with me. Its nice for a hot summer day since you can […]

Maggie’s Menu: Flank Steak with Snow Peas

Posted by magpie
On July 16, 2016

Message from Maggie: In my quest to find good asian food in our neighborhood I have been trying to cook my own asian inspired meals. See here and here. Below is my latest endeavor- a play on The Pioneer woman’s recipe here. Ingredients: 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce or tamari 3 tablespoons apple vinegar 2 […]

Maggie’s Menu: How to Chiffonade in 3 Steps

Posted by magpie
On July 13, 2016