Cheese Grits with Fiddleheads and Ramps in Brown Butter

I’ve been on the road a lot recently.  Well, not just the road, in the air as well.  It makes writing a bit challenging, so I usually get most of my posts down on my iPhone. Whenever I mention this to people, they always shake their heads… they can’t imagine typing that much with their thumbs. I find it freeing though. Grammar and spelling become less important and I’m able to focus on my thoughts. I’m not a natural writer and often struggle to find the words to convey what I’m feeling. But this little keyboard allows me to get it out without over-thinking it.

As I mentioned, I’ve been traveling a lot these last few weeks. It started at the end of April with a whirlwind trip out to Los Angeles by way of New Jersey. After a long weekend out west for the Big Traveling Potluck, I returned to my parents house to help out as my mom recovered from an operation.  It was nice to be there… to be with my family and the daily routine of things, even though it was obviously a very hard time for my mother.

When I returned to Boston, things didn’t slow down. I’ve been fortunate enough to work on some great projects that have kept me pretty busy.  There were a few slow days this last week where I got to create some recipes that have been stewing in my brain for a bit.  One was this bowl of grits topped with two of my favorite seasonal ingredients: fiddlehead ferns and ramps.  I kept the dish fairly rustic.  My goal was to create a comforting dinner for a rainy spring night that would stick to your ribs a little.  With a bit of brown butter and cheese mixed into the grits, I would call this one a huge success.

Now my thumbs are tired. I’m going to give them a little rest.

Enjoy!

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Katrina @ Warm Vanilla SugarMay 15, 2013 - 7:34 am

Heavens, this sounds perfect! I need to make fiddleheads before they become out of season and this is the perfect recipe!

JoanneMay 15, 2013 - 7:43 am

I can barely blog via my iPad let alone a phone! I’m impressed. And grateful because to be without your posts would be such a sad thing! I haven’t yet gotten to enjoy fiddleheads this season but atop a big bowl of grits…seems kinda like the perfect way.

JeanetteMay 15, 2013 - 9:03 am

I’ve yet to try ramps, but I do look forward to fiddleheads every Spring. Grits seem to be very popular – love the way you served it as a bed for this dish.

Bev @ Bev CooksMay 15, 2013 - 9:06 am

I have actually NEVER eaten a fiddlehead and aaaaaaaaaaalways wanted to. Plus I just like to say fiddlehead. You’re not surprised.

carrianMay 15, 2013 - 9:22 am

“I like it, I love it, I want some more of it”. Oh gosh, I just did that.

Sommer @ ASpicyPerspectiveMay 15, 2013 - 10:07 am

Great recipe! The fiddleheads are just gorgeous!

Stephanie RussellMay 15, 2013 - 11:20 am

I could seriously do some major damage to a bowl of grits or polenta. So yummy and satisfying! Speaking of satisfying, I sort of like doing work on my iPhone too. It forces me to be concise and to-the-point and I realize I get a lot more e-mails done that way without putzing around. And it’s a fun challenge to press all the letters correctly. ;)

marlaMay 15, 2013 - 12:35 pm

Awesome that you could take care of your mom. Bet that means the world to her!! :) Fiddleheads ~ I’ve never had ‘em now I’m obsessed with trying them. Lovely recipe!

EileenMay 15, 2013 - 2:24 pm

Most northeastern dish ever! We can’t get either fiddleheads or ramps here in CA–I’m so jealous. :)

I’ve never heard of fiddleheads before. Glad to learn new stuff every day. And gotta try these tasty-looking grits, too.

dixya| Food, Pleasure, and HealthMay 15, 2013 - 2:36 pm

im very intrigued by both the ingredients used in this recipe..I made similar bowl of heaven using polenta, shrimp & sundried tomatoes. hope you will find some free time to relax soon :)

Kelli @ The Corner KitchenMay 15, 2013 - 2:45 pm

This looks like the most perfect sprintime comfort food!

Andrew FrishmanMay 15, 2013 - 4:00 pm

MMMnnn… I LOVES me some grits, especially when they’ve got ferns on top!

Cada helecho empieza como un pequeñito cabeza de violin

Ronald HilbinkMay 15, 2013 - 4:08 pm

Brian:

This is an amazing combination of some of my favorite spring time greens. Definitely have to try your recipe. Thank you,

Michael PaezMay 15, 2013 - 4:40 pm

Looks gorgeous!

Brandon @ Kitchen KonfidenceMay 15, 2013 - 5:09 pm

Ohmygosh, YUM!! I’ve been obsessed recently with ramps, but I’ve yet to get my hands on some fiddleheads. Love the addition of brown butter too.

merry jenniferMay 15, 2013 - 7:33 pm

Well, you had me at grits.

(ps – Hope your mom is doing okay!)

Alison @ Ingredients, Inc.May 15, 2013 - 7:42 pm

so wonderful Brain!

ashley - baker by natureMay 15, 2013 - 10:09 pm

This is Spring food perfection! I want.

Kiran @ KiranTarun.comMay 15, 2013 - 10:17 pm

Omg. I’ve never had grits, fiddleheads or ramps for that matter. Looks so delish, Brian :)

ps: Hope you mom is doing well.

CarolynMay 16, 2013 - 7:53 am

I have yet to try fiddleheads. I’ve seen them in all the grocery stores, and I’m tempted. Now I think I need to just go for it. Take your well deserved rest for those thumbs.

Kevin @ Closet CookingMay 16, 2013 - 8:59 am

What a great spring treat!

TieghanMay 16, 2013 - 9:30 am

What an awesome spring meal. I love it!

Jen @ My Kitchen AddictionMay 16, 2013 - 2:57 pm

Confession – I have never tried grits. I’m terrified of grits for some strange reason. But, this dish totally makes me want to go for it. Our local farmer’s market opens up next week, and I think I remember seeing fiddleheads there last year, so I think I am going to pick some up and give it a try. That is, if I don’t chicken out on the grits in the meantime. :)

StaceyMay 17, 2013 - 9:49 am

Now I’m determined to find ramps and fiddleheads down here! If I can’t maybe I can still find them up in Boston in early June?? This looks SO good!

MollyMay 17, 2013 - 9:49 am

Ramps and Fiddleheads: Springtime in a bowl.

A Thought For FoodMay 17, 2013 - 11:53 am

Thank you Michael! And thanks for stopping by!

A Thought For FoodMay 17, 2013 - 11:54 am

HA! Yeah, I’m not sure how much I succeed with letter pressing. Usually I find some pretty ridiculous spelling errors. Thanks for your comment!

Lora @cakeduchessMay 19, 2013 - 10:06 am

I just love grits. I’ve never thought of pairing them with any thing but well, butter! And now you share this creative idea…love it. I hope your mom is feeling better and recuperating ok. xx

Silent Sunday: Food Truck Throwdown

Silent Sunday: Food Truck Throwdown (photos from Brian of A Thought For Food)

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Awesome pics! Mei mei is my favorite :)

JeanetteMay 12, 2013 - 5:50 pm

I love the idea of food trucks – wish we had them in our area! Great photos!

Arthur in the Garden!May 12, 2013 - 6:28 pm

Such great opportunities to sample so many kinds of food!

SarahMay 12, 2013 - 6:55 pm

You take such beautiful photos. Can I ask what lens you were using here?

Brian @ A Thought For FoodMay 12, 2013 - 9:07 pm

Hi Sarah! Thanks for your kind note. I used my 50mm for this. Hope all is well! -Brian

Arthur B RaleighMay 12, 2013 - 10:27 pm

These are always fun events!

Andrew FrishmanMay 13, 2013 - 6:01 am

Mmnnn… I LOVES me some food, especially when it comes from a truck.

Los camiones de comida, son mis favoritos.

shelly (cookies and cups)May 13, 2013 - 8:39 am

This is so great! I need a food truck in the suburbs :)

Cookbook QueenMay 13, 2013 - 3:34 pm

So so fun!! Not sure I can get behind the pate cone, though… ;) The maple bacon cupcake, however, is a sure WIN!!

MonetMay 13, 2013 - 6:10 pm

What a great day! I loved seeing the food…and the vendors serving the food. Sure made me wish I could have joined you guys for such a gorgeous day outdoors!

Sommer @ ASpicyPerspectiveMay 13, 2013 - 6:33 pm

Oh, man! I would eat every single one of these! :)

TidyMomMay 14, 2013 - 2:50 pm

I wish we had food trucks around us!! love your pics Brian!

StaceyMay 17, 2013 - 9:51 am

Still determined to get to the Mei Mei truck when I’m up there next month!! Gorgeous images Brian….

Strawberry Rhubarb Shrub

We drank a lot that Monday night.  More than we normally do.  More than we should have on any weekday, but, hell, we were doing it as a part of our mixology education.  The class was with Domingo-martin Barreres, the head bartender at Market by Jean-Georges and he had provided a number of recipes to try that night. Besides the six cocktails we were also given free reign to play with the ingredients purchased for the class. That led to another four or five beverages.  Oh, and we hadn’t eaten dinner yet.

Two things I took away from that evening were 1) that cocktails incorporating egg whites are da bomb and 2) that shrubs are going to be used in every one of our cocktails this summer.  Shrubs, for those of you who aren’t familiar with them, are vinegar based syrups.  These shrubs are made by mashing fresh fruit with sugar and then soaking the fruit in vinegar for a week.  The result is a slightly acidic, sweet, and fruity liquid that can be added to a cocktail to give it a little zip.  There are basic shrubs (mango, strawberry, apple), but you can also play around with them to create some fun pairings (mango sriracha, strawberry basil, apple ginger).  Here, though, I wanted to go seasonal, so I went straight for the classic strawberry-rhubarb combo.

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SarahMay 8, 2013 - 12:32 am

I love these – just my obsession or is there something really Gatsby-y and springtimey about this? A shrub collings for Spring? Sounds awesome.

Kiran @ KiranTarun.comMay 8, 2013 - 12:39 am

Can’t go wrong with a homemade cocktail that has all of this delicious, seasonal and fresh flavors :)

Averie @ Averie CooksMay 8, 2013 - 4:02 am

Wow. I could go for one or three of these! And I love the name..Shrub..in a recipe title!

Katrina @ Warm Vanilla SugarMay 8, 2013 - 9:06 am

I’ve never tried a “shrub” but it looks fabulous! I drank too much last night…it was in the name of mixology too (no it wasn’t).

Rachel @ Baked by RachelMay 8, 2013 - 9:19 am

Loving the sound of this! I’ve never heard of a shrub before.

Sommer @ ASpicyPerspectiveMay 8, 2013 - 10:12 am

Love this idea! Will have to add it to my list of drinks to make! :)

AdryonMay 8, 2013 - 10:39 am

I had my first experience with rhubarb last week and I’m obsessed. We’re expecting more from our CSA this week, and now that I can incorporate vodka in the mix, I’m even more excited!

This will be my first time using a ‘shrub’ in cocktails but it sounds absolutely divine. Beautiful as always, Brian.

Bev @ Bev CooksMay 8, 2013 - 10:58 am

I wanna be shrubbed!

AnonymousMay 8, 2013 - 12:33 pm

I love shrubs! And while I had always bought mine at The Boston Shaker, you’ve inspired me to try my own. I am trying to see if shrubs can be preserved for a long pantry shelf life (water bath canning for instance) or if they can only be refrigerated. If you have any insight on that, I’d appreciate it.

Arthur in the Garden!May 8, 2013 - 2:38 pm

Shrubs! I thought you talking about some kind of plant!

careyMay 8, 2013 - 2:57 pm

Oh yes. I developed a shrub obsession last year after making a strawberry-rhubarb shrub that was pretty similar to this! I highly recommend pairing it with equal parts tequila (reposado or añejo, preferably) and topping it with some seltzer — it’s magical. And, if you have them, a few dashes of pear bitters. (I made my own based on a recipe in BTP’s Bitters, but there might be some similar ones on the market these days. They definitely make the drink sing!)

Aimee @ Simple BitesMay 8, 2013 - 8:29 pm

First of all, I love everything about this post. The storytelling, photos…and a recipe I want to jump up and make. You’re on fire, Brian.

Second, thanks for schooling me on shrubs. I only know of the leafy, gardening kind. =)

Third, dude, I’m getting excited for Vegas. I am going to be ready to tip back a shrub or three. (First trip no kids in a whiiiiiile.)

Andrew FrishmanMay 8, 2013 - 10:36 pm

MMnnnn!!!…. I LOVES me some SHRUB, especially when that shrub turns out to be rhubarb!

¡Viva los jardines, y los jardineros, Viva!

AshleyMay 8, 2013 - 11:01 pm

I wanna get my drinky on with THIS! Pack it along please?!

laurasmessMay 9, 2013 - 4:42 am

Haha, I just commented over at Winnie’s blog then saw your ‘shrub twin’ comment and headed over here!! I’ve never heard of a shrub. Other than, uh, the small green plant version. Now I really want to make one… your strawberry rhubarb combo sounds delicious! Thanks!

Alanna KelllggMay 9, 2013 - 11:37 am

Very glad to see this – my friend Mary’s been raving about shrubs, this is just the incentive I need to start one today!

MonetMay 9, 2013 - 10:56 pm

I had a friend make us a shrub last summer…and I must agree, they are so good. Makes summer drinking even better! Thank you for sharing, Brian. Loved the pictures in this post…something about a mason jar gets me everytime :-)

JoanneMay 10, 2013 - 8:46 am

I’ve always wondered what exactly makes a shrub a shrub…and of course you have the answer for me! I’ve become re-obsessed with rhubarb so this cocktail needs to happen in my life!

shelly (cookies and cups)May 10, 2013 - 9:31 am

Agree about the egg whites in cocktails. At first I was a little scared, but after I had my first Pisco Sour I was a changed woman :)

I cannot wait to try these…strawberry and rhubarb in a cocktail is genius!

CarolynMay 10, 2013 - 12:38 pm

I love rhubarb. Wish I’d been a part of your mixology education!

Brandon @ Kitchen KonfidenceMay 12, 2013 - 6:11 pm

I love love love this!!! The last shrub I made was blackberry rosemary. I need to make one again.

[...] Capture spring with a jar of strawberry rhubarb shrub. [...]

ShainaMay 13, 2013 - 12:33 pm

This sounds lovely, and I am so envious of your mixology education. I would love to spend an evening getting schooled in the art of spirits.

Sally ReganMay 13, 2013 - 9:44 pm

Has anyone figured out how long one would need to waterbath this so it could be given for gifts and last longer?
There is a restaurant called POK POK in Portland, Oregon that sells bottled “shrub” and the cocktails in the restaurant. They have flavors like tamarind, cucumber and mango. What flavors have you come up with?

Brian @ A Thought For FoodMay 14, 2013 - 10:27 am

Hey Sally! Thanks for your note! It’s a very good question and I’m sure it can be done, but I have yet to test it out.

Sylvie @ Gourmande in the KitchenMay 15, 2013 - 12:23 am

I’m digging this shrub idea!

Silent Sunday: The Big Traveling Potluck 2013

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DesMay 5, 2013 - 12:33 am

<3 Wish I was still there! You captured it beautifully.

MikeVFMKMay 5, 2013 - 2:43 am

What a wonderful weekend! Beautiful pictures Brian! I can’t wait to witness this myself. In person.

ChristineMay 5, 2013 - 8:35 am

Awesome!!! Your photos are great. Everyone looks happy and really, really photogenic. I so love your work.

GailMay 5, 2013 - 9:10 am

When you make photos like these to tell a story, words are unnecessary and superfluous.

SMITH BITESMay 5, 2013 - 10:12 am

you’ve captured the weekend perfectly Brian!

Lori @ RecipeGirlMay 5, 2013 - 10:47 am

So fun to re-live it all! Great to see you, Brian! You captured everything beautifully!

WenderlyMay 5, 2013 - 10:58 am

What PHENOMENAL captures Brian!! I actually felt like I was there! (wish I could have been) :)

xo

Jen @ Savory SimpleMay 5, 2013 - 11:10 am

Great photos! I can’t wait to attend the east coast BSP in July :)

KristenMay 5, 2013 - 1:08 pm

Makes me wish I had an event for you to come photograph – you are so talented :)

Leah@wineimbiberMay 5, 2013 - 1:20 pm

You’ve captured the essence of the weekend perfectly! Simply beautiful.

Joan NovaMay 5, 2013 - 3:47 pm

Wonderful photos with lots of familiar faces. Looks like a great time!

AnonymousMay 5, 2013 - 4:28 pm

I love avocados on my burgers.

meg jones wallMay 5, 2013 - 6:48 pm

love these photos – looks like a blast. thanks for sharing!

Averie @ Averie CooksMay 5, 2013 - 9:13 pm

I was at Big PL! I was only able to make it to the first night but I was there and am in a photo in your post :) Sorry we didn’t get a chance to meet but next time, right!

And I am in love with your post. The images are all just STUNNING! Thanks for taking the TIME to compile this!

Averie @ Averie CooksMay 5, 2013 - 9:15 pm

Ok just kidding…we did talk cameras for a quick second on Friday night. I was super impressed with how dedicated you were capturing everything and it just shows. Such gorgeous captures!

TidyMomMay 6, 2013 - 7:19 am

Brilliant Brian!! Looks like you all had an amazing time, you pictures are wonderful!!

Liz @ The Lemon BowlMay 6, 2013 - 7:35 am

These photos truly capture a million words. The colors, the smiles, the food!! What a great time.

JeanetteMay 6, 2013 - 7:48 am

Wow, looks like it was a great event – thanks for capturing it for us.

Bev @ Bev CooksMay 6, 2013 - 10:12 am

Wait, I thought we agreed you were going to photoshop my face into at least 70% of these photos.

UGH.

JeannineMay 6, 2013 - 11:12 am

Stunning photos beautifully capture the mood of BTP. Loved meeting you Brian.

shelly (cookies and cups)May 6, 2013 - 6:35 pm

I ADORE this recap in pictures! I feel like I was there!

Sommer @ ASpicyPerspectiveMay 6, 2013 - 9:52 pm

Looks like you guys had a great time! :)

I’m sad I wasn’t able to make it out this time, looks like a great weekend!

JoanneMay 7, 2013 - 8:14 am

With of all of these pictures I almost feel like I was there with you! Can’t wait to see you at BSP!!

Russell van KraayenburgMay 7, 2013 - 11:32 am

Look at all you food bloggers having a blast.

ElizabethMay 7, 2013 - 1:23 pm

Those were the best photos I have seen on any blogging event!!! What a wonderful beautiful delicious time you had.

AmandaMay 7, 2013 - 1:52 pm

Wonderful photos Brian!! You captured the weekend perfectly. Was such a pleasure to finally get to meet you!! Hope to see you again soon!! :)

Diane {Created by Diane}May 7, 2013 - 9:29 pm

What a great recap of the weekend Brian, it was so nice meeting you. Your photos are just wonderful! As I was scrolling and enjoying them all, I was surprised to see the one of me :) pure joy written all over my face! It was a great weekend and I hope to see you again!

Aimee @ Simple BitesMay 7, 2013 - 9:53 pm

Brian, you worked so hard and it shows! What a beautiful recap. I was totally transported through your lens down to SoCal and into the middle of all these smiling, beautiful people. Thanks for sharing.

Stephanie @ Eat. Drink. Love.May 8, 2013 - 11:28 pm

I love these photos! It looks like it was so much fun!

[...] We were so busy, there wasn’t a moment to take photos, so I am using the stunning photos taken by our photographer and good friend, Brian Samuels (you should totally hire him…no seriously). He’s wildly talented, insightful, and most importantly, he catches those subtle moments you might otherwise miss. So thank you to Brian for giving me permission to use his photos. He posted a lot more from the event on his blog recap. [...]

LirenMay 10, 2013 - 11:43 pm

I knew I could count on you to make me feel as though I were the with you! So many of my favorite people in one gorgeous place!

ShainaMay 13, 2013 - 6:39 pm

I so enjoyed looking back at these. It was so good seeing you, but that goes without saying. Lovely photos, Brian.

[...] a whirlwind trip out to Los Angeles by way of New Jersey. After a long weekend out west for the Big Traveling Potluck, I returned to my parents house to help out as my mom recovered from an operation.  It was nice to [...]

Caesar Salad with Avocado Dressing and A Cookbook Giveaway

It’s hard to believe that it was almost a year ago that I met Gaby for the first time.  The introduction occurred at the Big Summer Potluck last July but it was in the car ride there that Lisa first mentioned her name.

“Who are you rooming with?” I asked her.

“Her name is Gaby, pronounced GOB-ee not GAB-ee. She’s a blogger from LA.”

“Do you know anything else about her?”

“Nope.”

“Well, hopefully she’s not a weirdo!”

Ok… I may have made up that last line. If I didn’t say it out loud, I was definitely thinking it.  But as I got acquainted with Gaby, I quickly learned that she wasn’t a wacko.  In fact, she was immediately welcoming and completely open and honest (even going so far as to express her love for colonics.  Sorry Gaby, I had to say it). We spent hours drinking wine together in the hotel room that night. Instant bonding.

I also got to hear about the book she was working on about avocados. Now, I must admit that I rarely purchase cookbooks that focus on a single ingredient. But, hell, who doesn’t like avocados? They’re damn expensive here in the Northeast and this makes me even more jealous of the plentiful supply of beautiful (and cheap!!!) avocados that West Coasters get to enjoy.   Then again we do have $4 lobsters here, so I guess I can’t complain too much.

Back to Gaby. Well, what else is there to say except that I adore her.  She’s kind-hearted and incredibly talented and I’m honored to call her my friend.  We spent this last weekend together… she picked me up at LAX when I was there for The Big Traveling Potluck and rushed us off to her favorite restaurant for lunch, followed by a fun-filled car ride to the event. Let’s just say that I almost peed myself because I was laughing so hard.

Anyway, the book is out and I recommend that everyone orders it right away… especially if they want to get it in time for Cinco de Mayo.  With that being said, Gaby and the publishers of Absolutely Avocados have graciously offered to do a giveaway of the book here!  Details on how to enter follow, but if you’re anxious to get your hands on it, head on over to Amazon and buy a copy. Here are the details:

To enter this giveaway, leave a comment on this post telling us how you like to eat avocados (on their own, in a dish)?

Official Rules: No purchase necessary. Open to US residents only . Giveaway will end on May 6th 2013 at 12:00 pm EST. One winner with a valid entry will be selected at random using random.org. Winner will be notified by email and will have 48 hours to claim their prize or another winner will be selected.

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MaiaApril 29, 2013 - 1:36 am

I love to eat avacados split in half and stuffed with chili tuna salad. It makes the perfect little lunch and is filled with delicious and healthy fats!

Chung-Ah | Damn DeliciousApril 29, 2013 - 4:22 am

I could add avocados to almost any dish!

You can opt me out of the giveaway – just wanted to stop by and say hi, and sorry for not introducing myself at the potluck! I was feeling too crappy to talk to anyone. Hopefully we can reconnect at the next one :)

Tracy | Peanut Butter and OnionApril 29, 2013 - 7:15 am

This looks amazing…:)

Jen @ Savory SimpleApril 29, 2013 - 7:51 am

Avocados improve any dish!

GregApril 29, 2013 - 8:32 am

Here’s how I enjoy an avocado: Toast an English Muffin. On the bottom muffin place one fried egg and slices of avocado. Lightly salt and pepper. Add the top muffin. Delicious!

ChristinaApril 29, 2013 - 9:21 am

I love avocados in a salad. I’ll take my avocados any way, really, but when I see a salad with avocados, I’m making it ASAP!

Cassie | Bake Your DayApril 29, 2013 - 9:43 am

Beyond fabulous to meet you both this weekend. I want to drink this dressing, too.

Marnely Rodriguez-MurrayApril 29, 2013 - 9:47 am

I love avocados as a pasta sauce! So creamy and delicious!

JeanetteApril 29, 2013 - 10:33 am

We love avocados – they make everything so much creamier. Love it in salads and as a dressing.

M.C.@ ThousandStoryKitchenApril 29, 2013 - 10:33 am

It’s true, they really are good in just about anything, but I gotta go with my ultimate favorite- guacamole- made in the best of ways at our local authentico, Manrique’s.

KimApril 29, 2013 - 10:55 am

I love to eat avocado loaded on a salad with tahini dressing!

Sarah H.P.April 29, 2013 - 11:05 am

I love to eat avocadoes on avocado toast with parmesan cheese!

Tracy NevilleApril 29, 2013 - 11:16 am

Wow this looks great.. a must try!

GeorgieApril 29, 2013 - 11:42 am

I like them eating them standing at the counter, because sometimes the craving is just way to overwhelming to wait and prepare them in a dish. I split them in half, pitted them and dig in with a little spoon (this way I get to enjoy more bites.)

Mr. & Mrs. PApril 29, 2013 - 11:48 am

This sound amazing!! Need to try soon!

KimApril 29, 2013 - 12:02 pm

I like my avocados sliced in half, seed removed, cherry balsamic and cracked black pepper in the “bowl,” and scooped out with a spoon.

Also, it was a pleasure “seeing” you this weekend at BTP1. Hopefully, we’ll have a chance to actually connect next time. Your photography is beautiful.

Cheers!

[K]

MeaganApril 29, 2013 - 12:24 pm

I love to eat avocados just plain out of the skin!

Kathy HuynhApril 29, 2013 - 12:41 pm

I like avocados on a piece of whole grain toast with a drizzle of lemon juice! :)

Kathy
dreamersanddrifters.blogspot.com

MeganApril 29, 2013 - 12:53 pm

I love avocados in guacamole or even just simply on toast with a little salt and pepper.

DeannaApril 29, 2013 - 1:07 pm

I like em plain – a little salt and pepper…and in salads. Tuna sandwiches. BLTs. Guacamole of course.
We met this weekend at tbp1 – it was AMAZING – I didn’t know enough to be starstruck til later – it was just a group of great, passionate people. Can’t wait til next year!

Katrina @ Warm Vanilla SugarApril 29, 2013 - 1:38 pm

Love that dressing! I love avocados in anything, really. But guacamole is probably my fav.

dixya| Food, Pleasure, and HealthApril 29, 2013 - 1:42 pm

I would absolutely love to win this book. I like them plain with salt and pepper or guac

GabyApril 29, 2013 - 2:31 pm

Brian – you are amazing :) Thanks for such a sweet post. And for not thinking that I’m a weirdo…. because sometimes I totally am :)

xo

Stacey MApril 29, 2013 - 5:13 pm

I LOVE avocados! Whether they be plain, in a salad, on a sandwich, in a quesadilla, I don’t care! I just love them! P.S. Can’t wait to try this recipe!

Kate SchwabApril 29, 2013 - 5:21 pm

I make an easy, sort of casual salad when at work: sliced avocado, one sliced tomato, some fat-free cottage cheese and a packet of tuna fish. Healthy AND yummy!

DorotheaApril 29, 2013 - 6:01 pm

Back in the 70′s my cousin used to eat avocados on their own as an appetizer (half an avocado served with a dollop of mayo in the center) – and he’s a doctor! Although I love avocados, I prefer them in something, usually a sandwich – like a BLT with avocado – yum!

Diane {Created by Diane}April 29, 2013 - 6:21 pm

This salad is lovely! So great to meet you this weekend Brian you are so wonderful.
I like eating avocados on a tortilla with Cotija cheese for a super fast and easy snack!

libbyApril 29, 2013 - 6:36 pm

I love avocados on sandwiches

MonetApril 29, 2013 - 7:11 pm

Hi sweet friend. I’ve been drooling over your potluck pictures. I wish I could have been there. And now I’m drooling over your post. How creative! Avocado dressing! I would love to win this cookbook. I like avocados on toasted bread. Yum!

FaygieApril 29, 2013 - 7:36 pm

I love avocado mashed, with a little kosher salt and garlic, on some good bread.

Sommer @ ASpicyPerspectiveApril 29, 2013 - 7:58 pm

I love Caesar salads! What an awesome way to incorporate avocados! Genius! :)

NicoleApril 29, 2013 - 9:39 pm

I love avocados on tacos!

Nadine Joy KurlandApril 29, 2013 - 11:16 pm

I like to eat avocado as a crudités , with salt and pepper, along with a martini.

Elise MeidalApril 29, 2013 - 11:23 pm

mashed avocado on toasted rye with a dash of spike seasoning makes my ideal breakfast, lunch or dinner!

Steph @ SeeStephRun.comApril 29, 2013 - 11:29 pm

such a summery meal- love this idea! I can’t wait to try this with some freshly grilled chicken!

Steph@ SeeStephRun.comApril 29, 2013 - 11:30 pm

oops.. I was so busy loving the recipe I forgot to officially enter the contest…

I love avocados on my eggs in the morning!

Susan M. BiaginiApril 30, 2013 - 12:32 am

Made this for dinner tonight and it was delicious! Added more avocado to the salad and served it with pan grilled boneless chicken breast seasoned with Adobo seasoning! Thanks for the recipe!

Charles Hunter IIIApril 30, 2013 - 12:52 am

This looks awesome! My favorite way to enjoy avovcado is on burgers in place of mayo. Yum!

Lauren AlexanderApril 30, 2013 - 2:07 am

My favorite way to eat avocado is the classic – guacamole.

Amy OrlandiApril 30, 2013 - 3:25 am

I love making ‘smashed avo toasties’ which is avocado, feta, lemon smashed together, smothered on toast and topped with good sea salt and dukkah.

A Thought For FoodApril 30, 2013 - 3:41 am

So glad you enjoyed it!

Sarah McLaughlinApril 30, 2013 - 6:11 am

Favorite way to eat avocados is on sprouted grain toast with cracked black pepper, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper! So simple and good! Also delicious with sliced tomatoes!

Jeanne @ CooksisterApril 30, 2013 - 10:37 am

I recently discovered the joys of avocado dressings when I served one with Cajun blackened salmon – what a joy they are! Love this twist on a classic caesar :)

AnnieApril 30, 2013 - 10:57 am

absolute favorite way to eat them is plain, with a spoon! but of course, I love them in guacamole with extra cilantro. will have to try this recipe!

Leslie Dundore KudskApril 30, 2013 - 12:02 pm

Wow – this looks like a fabulous twist on the classic Caesar. I love avocados in just about everything, but I have to admit my favorite is to sprinkle a freshly cut half with a little sea salt and dig in with a spoon!

ElizabethApril 30, 2013 - 2:20 pm

I’m not a big breakfast eater, but lately I’ve been loving avocado spread on whole grain toast with a bit of sea salt and cracked black pepper.

jessica wApril 30, 2013 - 2:21 pm

I love to eat them as guac or on bread with salt.

JeffApril 30, 2013 - 5:40 pm

Oh man, I LOVE ceasar salad! Adding avocados is such a good idea! I can imagine the added creaminess! Brilliant! I’m a Canadian and can’t win regardless, but I just wanted to comment on the salad! Great pictures!

JoiApril 30, 2013 - 6:28 pm

I love avocados smashed with lemon and sea salt on sweet potato tortilla chips.

Heather McClelland BlichaApril 30, 2013 - 10:50 pm

sliced up in a jack cheese quesadilla. yummm.

saraApril 30, 2013 - 11:06 pm

Guacamole is my #1 use! This ceasar dressing sounds awesome!

Ashlyn JonesMay 1, 2013 - 3:42 am

I love avocados, especially on my pork tacos!

CarolynMay 1, 2013 - 6:41 am

Love the idea of Caesar with avocado dressing! Pinning this one.

SheilaMay 1, 2013 - 7:43 am

I love avocado smashed onto a turkey and bacon sandwich.

FrancescaMay 1, 2013 - 9:33 am

avocado, sprinkle of salt, and a squeeze of lime, spooned.

JamieMay 1, 2013 - 11:15 am

I love to eat them on cheesy scrambled eggs!

MorganMay 1, 2013 - 12:42 pm

On toast, in the form of guacamole, or creamy avocado pasta sauce!

CatherineMay 1, 2013 - 1:12 pm

I love avocados anyway but mostly on burgers and sandwiches!

Sherry CluneMay 1, 2013 - 3:46 pm

I love an avocado strawberry salad. The dressing is a honey lemon syrup. A few sweet mint leaves on top.

Sarah HoutlerMay 1, 2013 - 5:07 pm

I eat avocados smashed with roasted garlic on toast and a sprinkle of sea salt.

JanetMay 2, 2013 - 7:06 am

Just on their own. Love em! Delish! Thanks for the giveaway!

JoanneMay 2, 2013 - 7:19 am

It really is so nice when other bloggers don’t turn out to be wackos. :P I’ve heard so much about this cookbook and it is becoming increasingly apparent that I need a copy of it! That avocado dressing is to-die-for.

I love avocados chunks to make my salads a bit more craveable!

JoanneMay 2, 2013 - 7:20 am

It really is so nice when other bloggers don’t turn out to be wackos. :P I’ve heard so much about this cookbook recently and it is becoming increasingly apparent that I need it in my life! That avocado dressing sounds divine.

aida mollenkampMay 2, 2013 - 7:56 pm

Great to see you last week, Brian! I love your photos of this GOB-ee’s salad! ;)

Gerry @ Foodness GraciousMay 3, 2013 - 4:25 am

I like to just scoop and salt my avocados. Wish I said hi last weekend and feel like a major douche that I didn’t..oh well I’m sure we’ll cross each others path in the future!

Michelle @ Taste As You GoMay 3, 2013 - 1:56 pm

My love for avocados came rather late, when I was in graduate school. But now that I do love them, I’ll add them to anything. My favorite way is to add them to a BLT sandwich… I don’t like mayo, so the avocado is the perfect way to add some creaminess to the sandwich.

Natalie GMay 3, 2013 - 7:29 pm

My favorite way to eat avocados is in guacamole. I absolutely love the stuff!

karenMay 3, 2013 - 10:06 pm

Love them piled up on open-faced sandwiches, especially in the summer with nice ripe tomatoes. This is our lunch pretty much every weekend.

Amanda Mantone LinehanMay 4, 2013 - 12:12 am

Wow, this looks amazing! What doesn’t avocado complement.

Anna Harrison GriesselMay 4, 2013 - 3:29 am

My favorite way to eat avocado is to make three ingredient guacamole. Avocado, lemon, salt.

Crissy D.May 4, 2013 - 6:45 am

I like to eat avocados on just about anything, halved with a little salt, on a veggie burger, veggie burritos, a salad, in pasta salad grilled with a little EVOO and salt and pepper. I just dont think you can go wrong eating it anyway

olivea kellyMay 4, 2013 - 3:21 pm

My favorite way to eat avocado is smashed up on toasty bread with lemon, salt and pepper MMMMMMM

D SCHMIDTMay 4, 2013 - 6:18 pm

I usually eat them in a salad.

Butchie GuzmanMay 5, 2013 - 2:43 am

either rolled into a flame warmed flour tortilla sprinkled with diced jalapeno, toasted sesame seeds and Maldon salt or cubed in the shell with Maldon salt.

ShannonMay 5, 2013 - 3:09 am

I love avocados many ways but now that it is grilling season I love having them on my burgers!

DeeMay 5, 2013 - 8:46 am

I love guacamole, just love it.

Joan O.May 5, 2013 - 10:30 am

I love avocados in so many things. One of my favorite ways is on a BLT so I guess it’s a BLTA.

AnonymousMay 5, 2013 - 12:03 pm

I like to eat avocados in guacamole or atop tostadas.

KateMay 5, 2013 - 12:59 pm

I love avocados with a little lemon and s&p, with vinaigrette, in salsa with mango and red onion and I could go on and on.

AnonymousMay 5, 2013 - 1:21 pm

I just made a BIG bowl of guacamole, just for my hubby and me. We live avocados.

Marlies HagerMay 5, 2013 - 3:48 pm

I love avocado toasts :)

Brian HeadMay 5, 2013 - 4:21 pm

Avocados on a tuna sandwich just make my day

Susan H.May 5, 2013 - 8:06 pm

My favorite way to enjoy avocados is in guacamole. Made some today. Thanks for chance to win.

CarolsueMay 5, 2013 - 8:38 pm

My favorite way to use avocados is in a simple, but yummy, salad. With lettuce, I mix a cup corn, 1 diced tomato and 1 diced avocado. I usually use a simple lime dressing with it.

Amanda Martens WilliamsMay 5, 2013 - 10:23 pm

I love avocados any way, especially chopped up on a taco salad!

Sit Down By The Fire

Opening the Cape house involves very little work.  We take the furniture outside, we wipe away some cobwebs and air out the rooms, which can get a bit musty during the six months we’re away.  Since the house isn’t insulated very well, we utilize the fireplace as much as possible. Eric and his brother Andy went out to chop some firewood. They were so proud of themselves and had a nice bonding moment.

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JoanneApril 25, 2013 - 7:15 am

Now it is absolutely official that spring is here!

Liz @ The Lemon BowlApril 25, 2013 - 8:10 am

I want to be on the Cape! What a great time of year.

KristenApril 25, 2013 - 8:33 am

I want a Cape house… you make it seem so charming!
Loving these photos, a lot! You are so talented!

Cassie | Bake Your DayApril 25, 2013 - 9:07 am

I want a cape house too! stunning, photos, Brian. Can I visit?

Russell van KraayenburgApril 25, 2013 - 10:35 am

Wow. Look how manly, chopping all that wood!

Mr. & Mrs. PApril 25, 2013 - 11:27 am

Lovely photos!!! Have fun!!!

Cookbook QueenApril 25, 2013 - 12:27 pm

Gorgeous photos!! Now I want a cape house!! Totally jelly.

Brandon @ Kitchen KonfidenceApril 25, 2013 - 1:05 pm

So butch! That man can really handle some wood!

MonetApril 25, 2013 - 11:23 pm

Hi sweet friend. Wow. The pictures are breath-taking. Especially the one where the axe is splitting the wood. AMAZING. I love seeing these other parts of your life. They make me admire you even more!

Jeanne Horak-DruiffApril 26, 2013 - 11:00 am

Am I the only one humming “I’m a lumberjack” from Monty Python? ;o) Great pictures – I can almost smell the fabulous, comforting smell of woodsmoke…

Sommer @ ASpicyPerspectiveApril 26, 2013 - 7:21 pm

That is how it’s done! Great woodchopping skills! :)

Greg HenryApril 28, 2013 - 9:26 pm

I feel the power in those photos. GREG

Alison LewisApril 28, 2013 - 11:51 pm

great photos as usual! You are so talented.

JeanetteApril 29, 2013 - 10:23 am

There’s nothing more cozy than a wood burning fireplace in a Cape house.

CarolynMay 1, 2013 - 6:27 am

Love the action shots…you got those perfectly. Enjoy the Cape House this summer.

Savour FareMay 2, 2013 - 12:15 am

Did you read that NYT article about that hugely popular TV program in Norway that was all about chopping and burning wood? This reminds me of that. IN a good way.