Carrie Fehr

Kitchen Garden Food

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Lakeside Condo

Christmas came early this year for my buyer, who landed a gorgeous condo, in the heart of Oakland.

20141210_0596 Fav Lake MerrittFrom the entrance steps, this pied-a-terre boasts views of Lake Merritt that look like a still-life painting, and features a private balcony, perfect for al fresco dining that is as sweet as a valentine.  Lakeside Patio

It overlooks an inviting courtyard surrounded by arch motifs, exposed brick and wrought iron details that combine architectural interest with Mediterranean flavor.

Lakeside fixturejpg

 

It is walking distance to Oakland’s hottest Uptown neighborhood with excellent restaurants, art galleries, and lively entertainment options, as well as historic treasures like the Fox and Paramount theaters.  

20141210_0614 Paramount

Its location makes it an ideal spot to enjoy numerous outdoor activities such as boating, jogging, or cycling, or a casual stroll around the water’s edge that is home to a variety of birds, plant life and trees.

20141210_0573 Jogger

 

Congratulations and Happy Holidays!

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Butternut Squash Muffins

Photo Butternut Squash MuffinWhen the first brisk days of autumn come calling, I head to my kitchen with thoughts of squash and spice. Butternut squash muffins are a great way to bring out the best of the season.

The bright orange flesh of butternut squash, with its thin rind, makes it easy to peel, plus it’s rich in fiber and loaded with nutrients that can help make your skin shimmer and hair shine.

Butternut squash muffins are full of fall flavor and have an irresistible soft moist crumb with a sprinkling of a pumpkin seed topping that add a nice crunch.  These cake-like delights are habit-forming, so be forewarned!  Click here for the recipe.

Bulgur Wheat Salad

Bulgar Wheat SaladBulgur Wheat Salad

Here’s a whole grain salad that is colorful and easy to prepare with the best of late summer garden sweet peppers and cherry tomatoes.

Ingredients:

Makes about 6 cups

1 ½ cups bulgur wheat

1 ½ hot water

2 cloves garlic, minced

4 sweet peppers, yellow, red, orange, purple, diced

1 pint mixed cherry tomatoes, sliced in half

2 green onions, chopped

¼ cup feta cheese, cut into 1/8 inch squares

1 lemon, juiced

5 sprigs of parsley, chopped

Drizzle of olive oil

Salt and pepper

Directions:

In a medium bowl, combine bulgur wheat with hot water, cover the bowl and let sit about 1 hour until water is absorbed.

Add minced garlic, sweet peppers, cherry tomatoes, green onions, feta cheese, lemon juice, and parsley to cooked bulgur wheat, toss to combine.

Drizzle with olive oil, taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Pear Compote with Chai Spice Cookie

This dish captures the flavors we love about fall, sweet juicy pears, notes of ginger, and honey, complimented by an aromatic chai spice cookie.  It is the perfect antidote for warming up a cold night.

Pear compote not only keeps well in the refrigerator, but it’s also a dessert that is good for your body and has a multitude of health benefits.

Top it over pancakes or oatmeal, or layer it with yogurt and granola for an afternoon energy boosting treat.

A special blend of cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, cloves, and white pepper, along with tiny flecks of crystallized ginger is what gives these soft and chewy, chai spice cookies their unique taste.  Combined with pear compote, this autumn favorite is a great way to celebrate the season.

Give it a try!  Click here for the Pear Compote recipe, and here for the Chai Spice Cookie recipe.

Roasted Peach Crêpes with Blueberry Compote

Is there anything better than savoring the sweet taste of summer with luscious, tree-ripened peaches that are oozing in flavor, all wrapped up in a French crêpe like a present, at a lingering pace over breakfast?  S’il vous plait!

Peach trees are the Chinese symbol for longevity.

Still in season, peaches are brimming with nutrients that make them a healthy snack, breakfast, or treat.  It’s no coincidence that peach trees are the Chinese symbol for longevity.

Even better, roasted peach crêpes are easy to prepare, and with minimal effort, crêpes can dress up any occasion from simple to luxurious with an endless variety of sweet or savory combinations. This classic dish is a true gift from the heart, enjoyed best with the ones you love, to set off a leisurely weekend day.  Click here for the recipe.