Friday Food Finds

This has not been a good winter here in southern Illinois. It snowed about 12 times, which is 11 more times than our normal winter and 11 more times than I was interested in! I’m not a winter person. I like spring … I like fresh herbs and produce and berries in the summertime. I’ve been dreaming … and even frothing … at the thought of getting basil in the ground. I’m counting the days until I can take Noodle to pick blueberries and strawberries, and I’m planning all of the things we can make. Here are my picks … enjoy!

Berry Wonderful French Toast

Doesn’t this Baked Blueberry French Toast from Family Fresh Cooking look delightfully sinful? Blueberries are my favorite, followed closely by strawberries.  When my mom would take me to pick them when I was a kid, she’d have to weigh me on the way in and weigh me on the way out … and pay for the difference! That’s how many berries I would eat as we picked! Noodle is the same way. I love it. 

Let’s Jam!

Since we’re on the topic, blueberry jam is one of my favorites, too.  I made about 6 quarts of it last year and it lasted about 4 months! Here’s a great recipe from My Northern Garden. 

Strawberry Sweetness

My grandma made the best strawberry cake I’ve ever had.  Thankfully, it’s one of those things my mom and I have mastered.I don’t think I could live without it in the summertime … simply luscious. Grandma would usually just make hers in a 13 x 9 cake pan … and toted it to church potlucks often. I found this recipe from Jenny Can Cook that puts a little flare into the sweet treat.  

Summertime Salad

After eating the entire strawberry cake … because, who wouldn’t! … you’ll want to take it easy fora day or two.  This Spinach Strawberry Salad with Strawberry Vinaigrette hits the spot! 

Cobbler Bars

Okay, let’s be truthful here … who can go a whole day without something sweet? Not I! If cake isn’t your passion, these Strawberry Cobbler Bars might be.