A Nip in the Air by Margot Justes

 

There was a nip in the air last night; we had our first frost. The holiday season is upon us.

Our local Costco was selling Panettone, an aromatic yeast semi sweet cake filled with raisins and candied orange peel. I love anything orange peel-my favorite is dark chocolate covered orange peels; Marshall Field's used to have the best, but I digress.

Panettone is just a sign that the holidays are approaching, it is a traditional Italian holiday offering that has become popular here at home. I even see it for sale at the local grocery story. There is something very special about the scent of oranges and yeast dough that brings back memories from my youth.

During my young life in Poland, oranges were a rarity, a luxury, not available under normal circumstances throughout the year. In the winter time they became available, but not to any great extent. The scent of a freshly peeled orange has remained with me to this day. Those happy memories are few and far between. They are safe and uncomplicated memories. Maybe that is why I love orange peels and the holiday season.

We always decorated for Halloween, carved pumpkins, baked cookies and cakes that looked like witches. My daughter Solonge has continued the tradition. Next weekend the kiddies are going to help decorate, design their pumpkins and bake cookies. It is something I look forward to every year. I will post pictures of our efforts in my next blog.

I thought I'd share some favorite fall recipes this season. I'll start with a rather strange concoction.

Bake a spaghetti squash. I usually split it, season with pepper a dash of olive oil and cook until done. I don't use salt, but that is a personal preference. After squash is done, shred with fork to get that spaghetti look, and fill with chili. Sprinkle with parmesan cheese and serve. I love the sweetness of the squash and the spicy acidic taste of the chili. I told you this was strange. I made chili last week, and bought the squash yesterday.

Guess what's for dinner tonight?

Cheers,

Margot Justes
A Hotel in Paris
Hearts & Daggers
Cool Crimes Hot Chicks
and coming soon A Hotel in Bath
www.mjustes.com