Blakely Trettenero’s simple holiday cooking tips

Blakely Trettenero's delicious Mushroom, Herb and Gruyere Puffs pair perfectly with her Cranberry Orange Champagne Cocktail.

guests for the holidays? simple recipes could elevate your hosting reputation

The holiday season has arrived, which means it’s that time of year when guests expect you to bring them some figgy pudding – or any type of pudding for that matter. After all, those guests likely subscribe to the idea that grabbing an extra slice of ham or overindulging in that box of chocolate-covered cherries … Continue reading guests for the holidays? simple recipes could elevate your hosting reputation

Hosting a cocktail party? Follow these simple tips to make it a success

Throwing a party is the easy part – invite a few friends and it’s an event! Successfully hosting your gathering and making sure your guests are well taken care and entertained, is another thing altogether. Below are a few tips to consider as you write your guest list and menu to ensure that you create … Continue reading Hosting a cocktail party? Follow these simple tips to make it a success

Salmon Deviled Eggs and Crab Cakes in a Tangy Sauce

From the archives: With Easter a tad further down the calendar than usual, we have a bit of extra time to prep, plan and create our menus. My traditional Easter menu has always included simple appetizers, ham and a decadent cake for dessert, however this year a change is in the wind. While I haven't … Continue reading Salmon Deviled Eggs and Crab Cakes in a Tangy Sauce

how to make simple herb compound butter

Simple, delicious compound butters are perfect companions for summertime dishes. Ingredients 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened dash salt, to taste 1 Tablespoon fresh herbs, minced Choose your faves! Basil and parsley or rosemary, thyme and sage ~ the combinations are endless. Our choice for our Naked Corn on the Cue is: Ingredients 1 clove garlic, … Continue reading how to make simple herb compound butter

naked corn on the cue

Summer cookouts are a favorite here at basil & salt and as always fresh foods are on the menu. Whether you use the backyard barbecue or cook over a pit, fresh corn tastes a little better with a bit of char and smoke. Lay your clean, shucked corn naked on the grill for a total … Continue reading naked corn on the cue

Cucumber Rolls with Ham and Cheese

Fresh and delicious, these little spring beauties are sure to impress. In reality, spring in the northwest is a combustible combination of all four seasons, often happening at the same time. Even though Mother Nature isn't going to cooperate and bring us warm weather right away, we are throwing a garden party. This recipe is … Continue reading Cucumber Rolls with Ham and Cheese

Basil & Salt Magazine’s ‘HolidayCheer’ now available for pre order

Planning a dinner party in a way that you're actually capable of getting it done without panicking is important. It's bad hospitality for the host to be freaked out.  ~Ted Allen basil & salt magazine is pleased to introduce its signature cookbook series. HolidayCheer is the first in our series and the inaugural issue is … Continue reading Basil & Salt Magazine’s ‘HolidayCheer’ now available for pre order

Dazzling Holiday Desserts: Slow Cooker Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Sauce

Finish your holiday feast with the grand finale of all desserts – a moist, pumpkin cake base, studded with chocolate chips and topped with a sticky caramel sauce. It all comes together in your slow cooker, saving time, effort and oven space. Scoop baked cake into individual ramekins and top with whipped cream for a … Continue reading Dazzling Holiday Desserts: Slow Cooker Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Sauce