One of our favorite places do dine on a special occasion is Maggiano’s. My favorite menu item is a simple appetizer – Fried Zucchini! Although Maggiano’s recipe remains a secret – I’ve come pretty close to duplicating this favorite and couldn’t wait to share it. I am also tempted to use yellow squash in place [...]

I recently tried Pioneer Woman’s Drip Beef Sandwich.  It was a hit here in ‘Possum Town and one I will be repeating frequently.  I have modified the recipe slightly.  Pioneer Woman said I could.  Not really, but I know she wouldn’t mind me tweaking it and sharing with you.  It’s EASY and LIP SMACKIN’ good.  [...]

Here’s a photo of one of the happiest days of my life.  I married my soulmate, my best friend, my high school sweet heart.  He always was, still is, and always will be  the love of my life.   He is also my web-manager,  food designer, and photographer for Taracooks.com.   He has taken my dream of [...]

Warning! This dessert is addictive and may be hazardous to your waist and hips. There – I said it. Consider yourself warned. Make this dessert for Valentine’s Day and your family will love you even more. If they fail to love you after making this, then take a cruise without them!

12 oz package semi-sweet [...]

Both my Grandmothers were excellent fried pie makers.  I remember the process seemed to be quite involved and the end result was a special treat for family gatherings or even for birthdays.  I’ve never had a store bought fried pie that came close to matching the taste of those good old fashioned, home made pastries.  [...]

2 cans Rotel – one regular, one mild
1 large can whole tomatoes
¼ cup chopped sweet yellow onion
2-3 cloves garlic – chopped
¾ cup chopped cilantro
¼ teaspoon sugar
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon cumin
Juice of one lime

Place all ingredients in food processor and pulse 6-8 times or until salsa becomes desired consistency. Some like it smooth. Some [...]

The recipe for whoopie pies has its origins with the Amish, and in Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, it is not uncommon to find roadside farm stands offering these desserts. Amish cooking is about old recipes that have fed families for generations, with no trendy or cross-cultural fusions or mixtures. These cake-like whoopie pies were considered a [...]