Summer Squash Carbonara

by Helen Kain | Aug 14, 2016 | Family & Friends, Mains, Pasta & Rice, Recipes By Type, Sides, Simply Done, Summer Recipes

While my son Adam and I very much enjoy exploring multi-step, complex recipes during our vacation time, we are also on the lookout for tasty and quick dinners for workday meals. For Adam in particular, the advent of small fry has limited the time and attention he has...

Green & Navy Ironstone

by Helen Kain | Aug 12, 2016 | Antiques, Blue, Cobalt, Green, Simply Done, Summer Tablescapes, White

Adam and I made a number of grain salads during his stay, and the Barley Salad with Green Apples, Grapes and Cheddar called to mind the vivid green in this antique Ironstone pattern. I love the combination of apple green with deep navy – so unusual. I...

Juliska Colette and Berry Plates

by Helen Kain | Aug 8, 2016 | Antiques, Purple, Simply Done, White

We have many varieties of hydrangea in Cape Cod, and this particular luscious purple is one of my favourites. It grows in full sun, with thick, spongey leaves more like a succulent than an hydrangea.  I made the most of its presence with several arrangements...

Quinoa Salad with Pears and Dried Cherries

by Helen Kain | Aug 2, 2016 | Family & Friends, Mains, Recipes By Type, Salads, Sides, Simply Done, Summer Recipes

Grain salads are quick, easy to make and very nutritious. They’re perfect to take to the beach whilst on vacation, or for lunch once back at work. Fine Cooking did a fabulous feature spread on creating grain salads with various combinations of...

Baronesse White

by Helen Kain | Feb 25, 2016 | Antiques, Pink and Red, Simply Done, White, Winter Tablescapes

On the same day I snagged the Aynsley St. Clair set at The Elegant Garage Sale, a thrift store on Bayview in Toronto, I picked up an almost complete set of Baronesse White by Tirschenreuth. It’s white porcelain, so has its characteristic slightly grey...

Weekend Breakfast: Tomato, Mushroom & Spinach Omlette

by Helen Kain | Oct 7, 2014 | Black, Breakfast, Fall Recipes, Simply Done, Summer Recipes

Like most people, we tend to have a fairly quickly prepared breakfast throughout the week, but indulge in a more leisurely meal at the weekend.  Whenever possible, I like to include some vegetables, particularly if it’s a late-morning meal....