Christmas Cookies

Growing up, my Mom would always make batch after batch of her famed "Killer Cookie" recipe around the holidays. They were always quick to disappear, and in high demand at family gatherings. It wasn't until years later, when I proudly brought them to a party, that I learned they are actually a pretty common and popular recipe, found on the side of the Eagle Brand sweetened condensed milk can. I'm on to you Mom. Nevertheless, Magic Cookie Bars have remained one of my all time favorite treats to indulge in and share at Christmas time. If you haven't tried them, be warned: they are highly addictive and it's near impossible to stop at just one cookie.

Roasted Tomatoes with Shrimp and Feta

This weekend I had some friends over and made this delicious one-dish meal to enjoy for dinner. I served it with crusty french bread for dipping in the sauce as the recipe suggests, but the leftovers were equally as good served over rice the next day. This was really easy to make and my guests all said they loved it!

Ingredients

• 5 large tomatoes, cut into eighths
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic *
• kosher salt and black pepper **
• 1 1/2 pounds medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 cup Feta, crumbled
• crusty bread, for serving

* I went a little bit heavier on the garlic, lemon, and parsley and was pleased with my executive decision to do so
** I used white truffle salt from the farmers market

Directions

1. Heat oven to 450° F. Place the tomatoes in a large baking dish and spoon the olive oil and garlic over them.
2. Sprinkle with ¾ teaspoon each salt and pepper and toss. Roast on top rack of oven for 20 minutes.
3. Remove baking dish from oven and stir in the shrimp, parsley, and lemon juice. Sprinkle with the Feta.
4. Return the dish to oven until the shrimp are cooked through, 10 to 15 minutes. Serve warm with the bread.

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Seeing Red

For the most part, I'm drawn to red clothing and accessories year round, but I like to take full advantage of the fact that the holidays give me a special reason to incorporate the fun eye-catching color into my wardrobe and make-up daily for the sake of feeling festive. Here are some old and new favorites that have been making regular appearances the last few weeks. Click on the set for more details.