Gilled Artichokes

Artichokes were always a treat in our house growing up. Yes, a vegetable was a treat.  It always seemed like they'd make an appearance every now and then.  I'm pretty sure that their appearance would directly correlate to when they were in season (read: on sale).  Besides being a treat in our house they were also an event in themselves to eat because they make you work. Peeling the leaves, scraping with your teeth until you finally get to the coveted artichoke heart - the best part!  I found this recipe on The Cuban Reuben that gets some of the work out of the way in the prep and adds the grilling element that takes it to another level.

Herb-Marinated Tilapia Kebabs

Tilapia always seems to be on sale so I bought some.  Usually I'm nervous about putting fish directly on the grill (because it always sticks - for me at least) but I was willing to give it a shot.  This recipe I found in Rachel Ray's Everyday magazine incorporates tilapia & set my fears aside for grill-sticking fish.  It makes for a great light dinner. I served mine with a side of baby arugula & black wild rice.

PS: It's July - when did that happen?

Steamed Artichokes

Artichokes were always a treat for us growing up. We probably only ate them a couple times a year.  To me they're so tasty & fun to eat I wish I ate them more.  My favorite fresh produce market, Sosbey's, in Hoboken had some on sale so I seized the moment and bought three!

I didn't remember exactly how my mom used to make them so I hit the interwebs & found a quick recipe for steamed whole artichokes by Tyler Florence.

Click through for Tyler's complete recipe & my photos.

PS: Happy Birthday to my favorite father-in-law, John!