Tried to recreate the shrimp zucchini pasta I had in Milan. Definitely needed to cook the zucchini longer, and add a broth. Since I didn’t have shrimp, replaced it with some seared scallops. Came out okay, but need to make improvements.

Garlic bread and coconut cream rice pudding was yummers. Note to self: never ever use basmati rice again for rice pudding, takes FOREVER.

The Goat Cheese on Toast I had in Berlin was so amazing, I decided to recreate it, but added some roasted bell peppers atop, and some marinated steak tips, which Jonathan picked up from The Meat House. Placed it over a fresh romaine and tomato blend that helped balance the rich flavor of the chevre. I thought I could find a Balsamic glaze around here because it was so popular in Europe, but I guess not, so I just drizzled a bit of Modena Balsamic Vinaigrette.

Easter Dinner On the Cape

Even though I have been going to school in Boston for almost three yeas now, it was the first time I visited Cape Cod on Easter Day. I was completely ecstatic when a friend asked me to join him and his family for a home-cooked meal at his house on the Cape. I was told his mom was quite the chef! Before having dinner, we saw the small local shops and the wonderful beaches. The weather was wonderful indeed.My friend’s house seemed like it came from a storybook - it was so lovely, quaint, and adorable. While listening to his father’s collection of Edith Piaf, we snacked on some really good smoked gouda, bleu cheese, and olives on the outdoor deck. Life couldn’t be more perfect at that moment.And, of course dinner was amazing…Marmalade glazed ham, pineapple bread pudding, roasted potatoes, fresh baked biscuits, and my favorite of the night: alfalfa, pea, radish, feta salad… will definitely use that recipe!And to conclude the night, a no-bake cheesecake topped with strawberries. A mixture of whip cream and cream cheese in a pre-made pie crust, easy as pie!

I had such a lovely time, great conversations and good food. It was definitely nice to sit down at a family table and enjoy a Sunday dinner. I think I could retire there…

Barbara’s Linzertorte @ PB Boulangerie Bistro in Cape Cod, MA

When I was in Nottingham, my cousin and I ventured to the oldest pub in England: Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem.

I love the place because it has such a history to it. The name of the inn actually originated back in 1189AD. At the time, a “trip” meant a rest stop to rejuvenate and replenish with food and drink. Specifically, the Crusaders would stop here on their way to Jerusalem, hence the name “Trip to Jerusalem.”

More excitingly, the pub has a variety of ales and huge portions of food! I ordered the Olde Trip ale, the Individual Beef & Abbot Ale Pie, and Clotted Cream Ice Cream. I fell in love with the braised red cabbage, and the gravy added great flavor to the pie. The Clotted Ice Cream, though, just tasted like vanilla ice cream - disappointing.

Besides the food, the dining area reveals even more history. Tapestries outline the Crusaders’ journey, and little models and statuettes depict fun facts. We actually sat next to a cursed ship model - every person that has cleaned it has passed away… spooky!

Regardless, definitely worth a visit!