Backyard Barbecued Ribs

  Labor Day marks the sad end of our beloved summer, so why not make the most of the holiday with a backyard barbecue? Our family loves ribs, so years ago I came up with a tasty rub and quick barbecue sauce that pleased us all. When we moved to Highland Park in 1985, a […]

Good Reasons to Get Sweet on Honey

Honey is hot this summer. The golden liquid is gaining in popularity as people discover different varieties of honey, as well as its diverse uses and benefits. Types of Honey There are more than 300 kinds of honey produced in the United States, according to the National Honey Board’s website. “Honeys come in all flavors […]

4 Sneaky Ways to Serve Kale to Kids

  Kale is known for its exceptional nutrient richness, health benefits and delicious flavor—although kids might argue otherwise. Kale can taste bitter and be hard for kids to handle, and there’s no fooling them when you try to slip it in a side salad at dinner. This leafy green is low in calories and high […]

Chocolate-Dipped Raspberry Macaroons

I love coconut at any time of year, but Passover really seems like the perfect time for this gluten-free treat. And when you talk about macaroons, you have to go to the source: Dan Cohen, author of “The Macaroon Bible” and owner of Danny Macaroons, who makes some of the most scrumptious and inventive macaroons around. […]

Good Reasons to Get Sweet on Honey

Honey is hot this summer. The golden liquid is gaining in popularity as people discover different varieties of honey, as well as its diverse uses and benefits. Types of Honey There are more than 300 kinds of honey produced in the United States, according to the National Honey Board’s website. “Honeys come in all flavors […]

Perfect Peach Crisp

My favorite summer fruit is in full swing this season due to all the water from melted snow and lots of sunshine. Before I moved from California to the Midwest, I had a peach tree in my yard that bore an abundant amount of the luscious fruit. I enjoyed making peach preserves and baking peach […]

Basil Pesto-Stuffed Chicken Breasts

  After one of the worst winters in history here in Chicago, one good thing has come out of it: plenty of moist, rich soil with a sunny spring and summer. As a result, my basil has been more bountiful than ever! I love basil. It is easily my favorite herb because of its aromatic […]

MIB TV: Roasted Asparagus Salad

This summer, try using fresh ingredients straight from your garden to create unique dishes for your family and friends. Quince at the Homestead (1625 Hinman Ave., Evanston) is doing just that. They use the freshest ingredients, including herbs picked right from a rooftop garden above the restaurant. One beautiful seasonal dish is the Roasted Asparagus […]

Feast on Fruit: Strawberry Bruschetta and Strawberry Kale Salad

We’re able to get strawberries year round, but winter’s mealy stand-ins are no match for the juicy, sun-fattened berries of summer.   Their intense sweetness naturally lends itself to inclusion in desserts. We stuff strawberries into pies, crisps, tarts, shortcakes, cheesecakes and parfaits. We dip them in chocolate and smother them with whipped cream. But […]

Saranello's Pan-Roasted Chicken & Peppers

In the mood for classic Italian tonight? Try this easy and delicious dish from Executive Chef Mychael Bonner of Saranello’s in Wheeling. Serve with a mixed green salad, rice and garlic bread for sopping up all of the delicious juices. A crisp white wine will pair well with this dish. Pan-Roasted Chicken & Peppers Serves […]