My #Love Affair with #Food Extends Within My #Writing
Inhale deeply...can you smell the aroma of freshly baked cinnamon bread? Or bacon cooking? The sense of smell can be an intoxicating adventure--from recalling a fond (or not so happy) memory, to dashing to the pantry for something to eat. How many times have you picked up a book and the author is describing in scrumptious detail the smell, taste, and touch of a certain meal? I certainly have! In all of my books, there is usually a feast, picnic, or a character nibbling on some delectable fare. It's a definite requirement in my stories.
For my upcoming release, I included a Midwinter feast. There was plenty of food and dancing.
Here's a sneak peak at a "foodie" excerpt from,
A HIGHLAND MOON ENCHANTMENT...
Desmond returned holding two plum tarts in his hand. “By the Gods, these are delicious. Who made them?”
Fiona tried to snatch one from his hand. “Brigid. They’re a favorite of Duncan’s.”
He shook his finger at her. “Nae. I brought one for Ailsa.”
Fisting her hands on her hips, Fiona pouted. “But none for your beloved sister?”
“Ye wound me.” Handing her one, he added, “Ailsa and I will just have to share this one.”
Pleased with his gesture, Fiona kissed him on the cheek. Taking the offering, she was about to take a bite, when Alastair approached from behind her.
“’Tis good to see ye are eating.” He placed his hands around her waist.
She laughed when he nibbled on her neck.
“Come, Desmond. Let us eat our fare away from the lovers,” suggested Ailsa, tugging at his arm.
Snorting, he complied and followed her out of the hall and near the entrance. When he held the treat out to her, Ailsa took a bite. Closing her eyes, she savored the sweet fruit and pastry. “Mmm…”
“’Tis good.” He whispered softly.
Desmond’s tongue teased the edges of her mouth, and snapping her eyes open, Ailsa yearned to have him kiss her.
Delicious scene, right? I hope you've enjoyed this special treat. In addition, I'm including one of my favorite fall recipes. It's one I've eaten the next day cold. Again, if you have any special recipes you'd like to share in the Tavern, please send an email, along with the recipe to:
moirarose415@yahoo.com I would love to highlight your dish.
And don't forget to pre-order the digital copy of A Highland Moon Enchantment here! Release date is 11.17.17!
Spaghetti Squash with Bacon and Peas
1 3-lb spaghetti squash
½ lb bacon, diced
2 large shallots
1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme
¼ cup dry white wine
1 ½ cups heavy cream
Sea salt and pepper
1 cup frozen peas, thawed
½ cup grated parmesan cheese
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Halve and seed the spaghetti squash. Place halved squash face down on baking sheet and roast for 25 minutes.
While the spaghetti squash is roasting, cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat, until crisp. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate. Add the shallots and thyme to the skillet and cook until softened, about two minutes. Stir in the wine and cook, scraping up any browned bits, about 1 minute. Add the heavy cream, ½ teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon pepper.
Increase the heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is slightly thickened, approximately 3-4 minutes. Stir in the peas and parmesan.
When spaghetti squash is done, remove and let cool for a few minutes. Using a fork, scrape the squash into strands. Add the squash and bacon to the sauce and continue cooking for about 2 minutes, tossing everything together. Season with salt, pepper, and additional parmesan cheese.
When I'm not cooking, you can find me at these other fabulous places ~
