Contest Rules Photo due: May 3, 2011When my daughter was in her early 20s and attending her first years of university, we spent many a lingering breakfast over the following recipe, a dish that came to be our favourite and resulted in long conversations about philosophy, the meaning of life and relationships and state of world affairs. Eggs Poached in Tomatoes 1 tablespoon olive oil1 small onion minced1 clove garlic minced4 Roma tomatoes, chopped coarsely4…

Contest Rules Photo due: May 2, 2011Roasted Portobello Mushrooms with Stilton and Asparagus 2 large Portobello mushrooms cleaned4 slices Stilton cheese4 tablespoons capers24 spears asparagusSalt and pepperGrape seed oilTruffle oil (Truffle oil can be found in most urban large grocery chains, as well as in specialty shops. The earthy, pungent flavour and aroma of truffle oil adds an extra punch to this dish, but can be eliminated if you don’t have it on hand.) Oil…

Contest Rules Photo due: May 1, 2011Red Pepper Dip 3 large red peppers, seeded and halved3 cloves garlic unpeeled2 tablespoons olive oilSalt and pepper½ cup low sodium feta cheese2 tablespoons fresh dill2 tablespoons lime juice1 dried chilli pepper On a parchment paper-lined baking sheet, place the peppers skin side up, and unpeeled garlic. Drizzle with olive oil, season, and roast at 350F for about 30 minutes. Remove from oven and let cool When the peppers…

Contest Rules Photo due: April 30, 2011Avocado Black Bean Dip 1 ripe avocado2 tablespoons chopped cilantroJuice and zest of 1 lime1 cup canned black beans, rinsed well1 jalapeno finely chopped1 teaspoon sea salt Cut avocado into cubes and lightly mash together with the beans. Add remaining ingredients. Chill 1 hour before serving with toast or tortilla chips.

Contest Rules Photo due: April 29, 2011I developed the following mint jelly recipe as an alternative to some of the truly spineless mint jellies available commercially. Pear and Mint Jelly ½ cup fresh mint3 cups pear juice2 tablespoons cider vinegar3 ½ cups sugar2 packages liquid pectin Wash and finely chop mint. Bring juice to a bowl with the mint. Add vinegar. Stir in sugar. Bring to a rolling boil and continue to boil one minute….