Author Archives: colleensachs

Happy Mother’s Day

Paella is the best thing my Mom taught me how to cook. This version has shrimp, mussels and clams. It gets its distinctive flavor from saffron and chorizo. Happy Mother’s Day! To read about what I am eating and drinking … Continue reading

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Hard Drinks: Signs of Spring

A long bike ride followed by a Pimm’s Cup makes a great early spring evening. Add 1 1/2 to 2 ounces of Pimm’s No. 1 to a glass filled with ice. Top with ginger ale (I like the spiciness of … Continue reading

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Soft drinks: Izze sparkling blueberry

I love blueberries. Fresh blueberries, blueberry conserve, blueberry syrup and blueberries baked into pastries are all high on my list of blueberry treats. But as the blueberry preparation gets further away from the original fresh blueberry I get more skeptical. … Continue reading

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Great deals: Mark West Pinot Noir 2010

One of the best buys I’ve seen lately is the 2010 vintage of Mark West Pinot Noir. Berries, plum, anise and molasses are evident in a soft smooth wine. This 13.8% alcohol wine has a beautiful garnet color and a … Continue reading

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From the market: turnips, greens, leeks and potatoes

In the Florida, Georgia, Alabama and Mississippi region fresh vegetables in mid-January produce a colorful array. Potatoes include small, tender red potatoes and deep redish orange sweet potatoes. Purple topped turnips are mild, and a great way to introduce someone … Continue reading

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Places: Orlando – Pho 88

When most people plan a trip to Orlando their focus is on the many theme parks in the area. But what sets my heart atwitter is Vietnamese food at Pho 88.  The restaurant is located in a former grocery store … Continue reading

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Classic pairing: oysters and Sancerre – Pascal Jolivet Sancerre 2009

              As the weather turns cool in the Florida panhandle Apalachicola oysters are at their best. Through December and into January the oysters have been plump and firm and wonderful. They taste distinctly of … Continue reading

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