Not sure if I’ve mentioned before.  But besides being nuts for this time of year, I might be even more nuts for anything with pumpkin in it.  Even the pumpkin spice latte or as some like to call it, the PSL, you might ask?  Yep, send it my way please.  In fact send it my way soon please.  Not sure why the Starbucks here in Istanbul waits so long to bring this drink to their autumn menu.  The PSL made it’s debut in LA back in September and it’s still not here.  Sheesh.  Ok, sorry, this isn’t a post about coffee.

This is a post about the shining star of fall, the great pumpkin.  No, not the Charlie Brown version.  Though that’s definitely in the top ten best things of the season.  I sure hope I can find a way to play it for my littles this year.  It’s a Halloween tradition.  Sorry, I’ve drifted again.   Read more

The weather this week in Istanbul has taken a complete turn to Autumn.  I guess they got the memo here that summer officially ended this past weekend.  We’ve had cold, windy, and rainy days that have started making me excited for the recipes of Fall. Ok, who am I kidding, I’ve been excited all summer.  My favorite season is here…..But before I get all crazy with pumpkin  and apple everything, I’m going to share one last summer recipe.  Maybe one of my most favorite of all.  I’ve been making my Summer Orzo Salad for years without too much variation.  If you have any ripe, sweet baby tomatoes left, this is a perfect way to use them up.   Read more

This quinoa salad is super quick to throw together and such a great meal option.  It’s perfectly satisfying as a quick lunch throughout the week or a light and healthy dinner on top of some greens with a little extra drizzle of olive oil and a squeeze of lime juice.  It also packs beautifully to bring to your next summer BBQ or picnic.  The extra bonus of it being vegan, dairy free, gluten free, and nut free makes it a true crowd pleaser.  Read more