Viewing entries posted in June 2011
C’mon in!
Last week marked the official start of summer, a season in which many of us enjoy a more relaxed schedule, longer days, and outdoor activities. Entertaining is often moved out to the deck, porch, or yard during these months, reminding us that our home’s décor isn’t confined to its interior.
What’s in Season? Peaches!
For me, no fruit brings to mind summer quite like peaches. Perhaps it’s because I grew up close to the border with South Carolina, but I am a HUGE fan of all things peachy. Fun fact: South Carolina produces more peaches than the state of Georgia (source). Call me a Carolina peach because lately I have been up to my eyeballs in peach recipes for all occasions. Here are some of my creations!
Ocean Inspired Pottery from Cephalopod Ink
If you happen to love aquatic animals and handmade pottery, then you’ll quickly become a fan of Raleigh artist Tanya Casteel’s line of ocean-inspired ceramics. I got the chance to talk to Casteel about her company, Cephalopod Ink, and what it takes to create her one-of-a-kind designs.
Apricot Chicken with Thai Jasmine Rice
I love pairing fruit with poultry and meat — it’s one of my favorite food combinations. A few years back, I found a recipe online for apricot chicken. The recipe without any modifications is great and works well. However, I always like to add my own touches.
Pie 2011
The title of this post makes it sound like pie will be taking over and this huge revolution is starting. Well, several online publications and TV networks that happen to talk about food (cough, cough) predicted that pie would be a Top 10 food trend in 2011. I was so stoked when I read this and could not wait for the year to start because let’s be honest, who doesn’t like pie? The only problem is, it’s now summer and I have yet to see any stinkin’ pies!
Spicy Chevre Pimiento Cheese
Confession: I'm not usually a fan of pimiento cheese. In its common form it's all wrong — mayonnaisey, full of preservatives, and with a freakishly unnatural hue. I used to turn up my nose at pimiento cheese; it offended my delicate Northern sensibilities. I also could not get over the spelling v. pronunciation issue. They are PIMIENTO peppers, yet it's pronounced PIMENTO cheese. What gives?
Get Your Gadget on at Maker Faire
In Raleigh last weekend, the place to be for any techie, gadget lover, or Dad that loves design and science was Maker Faire. This was a weekend-long event held at the N.C. State Fairgrounds and brought crafters, makers, inventors, and artists together for a family-fun occasion. Here are some of the exhibitors that either displayed their creations or gave demonstrations on their craft:
Winston-Salem Artist Envisions an Alternative 2011
On the first Friday of every month in downtown Winston-Salem, people gather together to peruse the latest work from local artists at an event known as the Gallery Hop. This month’s hop that occurred on June 3 featured artist Mike Shepherd, a current resident of Winston-Salem, and his collection of unusable furniture, eclectic faces, and colorful animals.
An Education in Fine Scotch
The Ballantyne Hotel and Lodge in Charlotte is the place to go in North Carolina for relaxed sophistication. This luxury hotel is home to a prestigious collection of single malt scotch, and this summer the hotel is offering opportunities for both guests and locals to expand their fine whisky knowledge.
Pair it Up!
Do you like beer and food? Who doesn’t? On Wednesday, June 22 at 7pm, Guglhupf Café of Durham will be hosting an impressive five-course menu with beer pairings from Fullsteam Brewery (also from Durham). With the combination of delicious food, local beer, and the outdoor patio scenery of the Guglhupf, this should be a pretty fantastic evening.