Noodle Kugel

A little bit pudding, a little bit casserole, Kugel is a centuries-old Jewish dish traditionally served as a side sometimes a dessert that has undergone many transformations. Most commonly made from egg noodles or potatoes combined with eggs and/or milk, cream or soft cheese, a Kugel can be sweet or savory, maybe even a little bit of both. The other day, my eye caught some Greek egg noodles (hilopites or χυλοπίτες) idly hanging around in a kitchen canister and I swear the first thing I thought to make with them was Kugel.

Kheer, Rizogalo, Rice Pudding … Creamy Cardamom-Scented Basmati Rice Pudding

My grandmother’s rizogalo (rice pudding) is ingrained in my memory for ages to come; she made it so often and always sent up half a dozen or so bowls for us to devour. When the smell of cinnamon would waft up the stairs from her apartment to ours, we knew what was coming! Her recipe was simplicity at its best: milk, rice, sugar and a dash of cinnamon. I’ve made it often and rarely veered from her always-delectable version. Until now.

Cinnamon Buns

Disclaimer: I previously said I’d be cooking healthier–I am, seriously I am–and I know these cinnamon buns are far from that. But I’m not the only one who lives in our home. I’ve got to indulge the husband and the kids once in a while don’t I?

Healthy Lime and Olive Oil Cake

I don’t know about the rest of you, but I feel like I probably ate an entire cow over the holiday season. Not to mention a whole pig, most of a goat and much of a plump turkey. Forget about the potatoes, pastas, cheeses, phyllo-wrapped pies and syrup-drenched Greek confections I also consumed. Believe me, I’ve got the spare tire and double-chin to prove it.

Greek Pumpkin Pie / Pita (Kολοκυθόπιτα)

During our visit to Maskers Orchards in upstate New York a couple of weeks ago, along with the apples we got to pick ourselves we picked up some small pumpkins from the farm’s market … and paid just $3 for 4 pumpkins weighing about 3 to 4 pounds each. After decorating the dining room with these orange beauties for Halloween, I decided to start using them in the kitchen.

Apple Crisp, My Way

I made this apple crisp the other day: But before I indulge you and share this sweet and simple recipe, I’d like to take you on a short hike …