Summer Smoked Cheese Platter Recipe Paired with Shiraz, Merlot

Pool-Side Pickers Backyard pool parties are the best. But staying in the sun all day can leave you and your guests fatigued and most of all, hungry. If you find yourself hosting or invited to a backyard bash, serve something that’s always a satisfying crowd pleaser: a delicious Canadian cheese platter. Of course, when preparing the perfect platter there are questions that arise, like which cheeses should you serve and which wine pairings work best with them? That’s why I’ve compiled a list of my summer go-to’s that will satisfy the most discerning palettes. So here it is, my list […]

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Sloppy Jane with Mozzarella Recipe Paired with Cabernet Franc

  The New Barbeque We all know the drill: summer entertaining comes with the summer stress of deciding what to make. Classic barbeque fare is delicious, but it has become somewhat expected and tiresome. So if you’re looking for an alternative to the trusty old BBQ, why not try something different and fun: the Sloppy Jane. This recipe for Sloppy Janes with Mozzarella is prepared on the stove top rather than the grill, but you can make a big batch of the delicious turkey filling and serve it beside BBQ-toasted buns and a bowl of shredded Canadian Mozzarella. Then, guests […]

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Fennel, Melon and Feta Salad Recipe Paired with Floral White Wine

Fennel, Melon and Feta Salad There’s something magical about the month of June. Maybe it’s that flowers are in full blossom, or maybe it’s that you can finally go outside without wearing a jacket. Whatever it is, I love it and make the most of summer by lounging outside, lightly snacking on some savoury Canadian Cheese, armed with a glass of white wine. This Fennel-Melon and Feta salad was practically made for a day spent relaxing on the patio. The ingredients are really simple and I recommend shopping for them at local farmers markets that crop up during this time […]

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Canadian Cobb Salad Recipe Paired with Riesling

Spring into April Nothing says the weather is getting warmer than some April showers. It’s time to roll up your sleeves, get out your rubbers, and get your green thumb ready. Or at least start your gardening with this simple and elegant garden salad, the Canadian Cobb Salad. This is a great dish that’s easily made when expecting company and sure to have everyone leaving satisfied. Toss together some chives, chicken, and lettuce for that fresh, crisp salad that marks the start of spring. Top it off with delicious crumbles of Canadian Blue Cheese for a salad that bursts with […]

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Spicy Tuna Melt Recipe with Chardonnay Wine Pairing

Spicy Tuna Melt Spice it up this Spring Yes, it’s still cold outside, but that doesn’t mean you can’t turn up the heat. Warm up with your favourite sweater and glass of wine to melt away the last of your winter worries. Maximize your “me time” with a simple yet delicious tuna melt. A childhood classic that will take you back to the days of sticky hands and messy faces. My favourite version is the Spicy Tuna Melt, a modern twist on this much-loved sandwich. Toast some multi-grain bread and top it with a mix of tuna, peppers, and red […]

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Chicken, Vegetable, Gouda Couscous Recipe with Pinotage

Chicken Vegetable and Gouda Couscous Encourage the warmer weather with a cold dish. Celebrate the longer days by inviting a few friends over for some good food and wine. Don’t know what to make? Fret not, I found the perfect little recipe that tastes great served cold or warm. This recipe for Chicken, Vegetable, and Gouda couscous is so fast and easy to prepare, you’ll have plenty of time to catch up with your guests. Made with Canadian Gouda, it’s the perfect combination of creamy and crunchy and will be sure to chase away any remaining winter blues. If you’re […]

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Wine and Food Pairing with Memories and Laughter

  As part of the CBC’s Food Fantasy fundraiser for the Food Bank, I raffled myself off to visit the home of the winner and pair wines with a three-course meal. You can listen to our group chat above and discover some surprising tips on pairing wine and food. The winners were Merle and Richard (far right in the picture below), a lovely couple who hosted a fun evening filled with wine, laughter and memories.   Wines Tasted and Food Pairings Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc 2014 Marlborough, New Zealand Grassy and smoky and absolutely great! This New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc […]

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Asparagus and Brie Tartlets Recipe Paired with Riesling or Merlot

Eat Green this St. Patrick’s Day I love the month of March because it is a sign of fresh things to come. The weather is beginning to warm up and green is starting to poke out from under the snowy landscape. And of course that’s not the only green we’re seeing; St. Patrick’s Day will bring a whole new slew of green things. And there’s no better way to incorporate the festive colour into your St. Patty’s day than with a delicious asparagus and Canadian Brie-based appetizer. Impress your guests with these Asparagus and Brie Wonton Tartlets – trust me, […]

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Magic Cream Cheese Macaroons Recipe Paired with Riesling

Magic Cream Cheese Macaroons Fall in Love with these Valentine’s Day Delights Love is in the air, and delicious treats are in the kitchen. If you’re looking for something to make for the one you love, or just some treats to bring into the office, I highly recommend these Magic Cream Cheese Macaroons. They’re a no-bake recipe, made with soft Canadian Cream Cheese and coconut (a delicious combination that go together as well as you and your Valentine… awwww!). Ok, so if you don’t have a Valentine, well these are the next best thing. Whether you’re coupled off or spending […]

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Barbecue Bruschetta Cheddar Recipe

Balderson Cheddar Cheese and tomatoes are naturally made for each other. Their combined acidity accented with fresh herbs is a great base for the following appetizer. Salsa Ingredients: 2½ cups Roma tomatoes, seeded & diced    625 mL ½ cup red onion, minced    125 mL ¼ cup cilantro, minced    50 mL 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded & minced    1 1 garlic clove, minced    1 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil    30 mL 2 tsp fresh lime juice    10 mL ½ tsp salt     2 mL ¼ tsp Ground black pepper    1 mL 1 baguette (approx. 18-inches/45 cm)    1 2 Tbsp extra virgin […]

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