Blueberry Chutney

Well, they did it. The four kids paddled, portaged and hiked their way through Killarney Park. I had my doubts whether they'd be able to do the whole trip without parent intervention, but they proved me wrong. On portages almost a kilometre long, they happily walked with heavy sacks and paddles in hand. On long stretches of lake, they sang, laughed and told stories to paddle their way to the next destination. Despite some cold temperatures and high winds on a couple days, the trip was a great success. We hiked to the summit of Silver Peak on an off day and the kids just marched on without complaint. It reminded me once again to never underestimate what any person can do.

Gluten Free Crostini with Arugula Pesto

It's an empty nest here at the Kale Eats kitchen.  Both kids are off on amazing adventures on different continents and Don and I are left behind.  Luke has been gone a week already and Josilin a mere 3 days, but it feels much longer.  How we will fill our days while they are gone is an ever evolving plan, but I can guarantee we will eat well in their absence.  Walking through the grocery store this week, my cart was surprisingly empty and lacked any "convenience" foods.  It was a good eye opener of the products that have crept into our life, despite my great intentions to always eat whole food.  I'm looking forward to trying out some new recipes while they are gone and hope I won't miss them too much.

Curried Asparagus Crostini

Have I persuaded you to start a book club yet?  This remains a rare treasure on our busy calendar of activities: a night just for moms.  Our most recent meeting was to discuss the wonderful book Bel Canto.  Set in South America, it brings together citizens of multiple countries to endure a hostage situation.  I won't reveal any more of the plot, just trust me that it is well worth the read.  I loved how the book drew me in and made me feel as though I was a hostage myself.  Hearing what the other ladies thought of the characters and the ending made for some lively discussion when we met.

Vegetarian Dolmades

Sharing an office at work is a little like living with someone. We share a space that's often where one goes to retreat from others.  It's been over five years that I've been shacking up with my sweet friend Norma at work and I wouldn't change a thing. Happily for me, we have a lot in common.  She loves food, children and a good laugh.  That's probably all I needed, but she's got even more going for her!  Generous to a fault, she gives her time, her ideas and compassion with me and all the clients we work with.  Every morning she greets me with a smile, asks how the kids are this morning and often, what is that beautiful lunch you just pulled out?  A grandma who has raised her own, I love to hear the wisdom she shares when I complain about my kids or hubby.

Black Bean Taquitos

It's been a long week here in Kale Eats kitchen. The details are boring, so I will spare you those.  Just know this weekend is being welcomed a little more than usual.  We have few plans and I'm keen to curl up with a great book.  I've not been in the kitchen as much lately and our meals have been a little more laid back.  Taquitos are a little like Mexican egg rolls and super easy to pull together.

Sweet Potato "Crostini" topped with Black Beans

What do you take as an appetizer to a party the first week of January?  No one wants your cheese topped crostini or decadent brownies.  NO, they want tasty food without a lot of calories. Suddenly everyone is watching what they eat, when just a week ago, the thought didn't even cross their mind.

Butternut Squash Tahini Spread

Are you ringing in the New Year with a bang?  I never would have predicted that becoming a parent would have any impact on end of year celebrations. Kids love any reason to celebrate.  With hats, horns and worldwide attention, what kid wouldn't want to be part of that.  Our kids are no exception and New Years Eve is one of their favourite nights of the year.  When they were younger we would celebrate well before the actual stroke of midnight, but as long as it included a countdown and kisses, they were happy.

Pomegranate Salsa Crostini

 Looking for a showstopper appetizer this holiday season?  You just found it!  Perfect for your next family gathering or even New Years Eve party.  Not only do they look festive, they taste mighty fine as well.  All the components can be made in advance, making for a quick assemble when your guests arrive.  I travelled to two different parties with these in tow and putting it together took about five minutes.

Tomato Jam

There are lots of tomatoes in our house right now.  Between the CSA, our garden and the kind neighbours' garden, we are overflowing.  This recipe is a clever one because it can be put together very quickly and with little effort.  No peeling of tomato skins or removal of seeds and you can literally use whatever variety you have on hand.  Seconds at a market would be perfect for this.  We enjoyed it slathered on baguettes and with crackers and cheese.  I'm planning to enjoy it with some vegetable curry and meatloaf as well.  It's quite versatile and incredibly tasty.  Sweet and savoury with a nice bit of heat it's the perfect condiment to have in your fridge.

Fairy Tale Eggplants with Yogurt Sauce

Our CSA had these cute little eggplants this week.  Called "fairytale eggplants" they are only four inches long at their biggest, with a skin much thinner than traditional eggplant.  My usual go-to with eggplant is to grill or roast, but I was curious if these little guys could be steamed instead.

Chard Cakes with Parsley Sauce

I've mentioned here before how much I like to try new recipes.  It's pretty rare that I will repeat a meal, and when I do it's usually after some time as passed or perhaps the next year when ingredients are in season.  However, these chard cakes have been made three times this week and I have a feeling when I pick up my CSA shares this week, it will make a fourth appearance.  They remind me a bit of the white bean cakes I made earlier this spring and funnily enough, Don was pretty ga-ga about those too.

Grilled Kale, Plum & Ricotta Salad

Coming up with a name for a blog is no small decision.  Forever linked to whatever I may choose to post and share, the title of your blog cannot be changed or removed.  I’ve had a few people ask me “why Kale Eats?”  I wish the answer was an exciting one, but I’m afraid it’s pretty tame.  I originally had a few other ideas that included the word kale, but the domains were already taken.  When setting up on the host site it gave suggestions as possible alternatives and Kale Eats came up.