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Cottage Cheese Tomato Salad

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I have just returned from a lovely trip back east to New York, Connecticut and Vermont to see family and friends and attend a cousin’s wedding. When I get back from vacation (usually having spent my time eating copious amounts of bread and cheese!) I often feel like I need something light for a few days. As I settle back into the studio this week, I am making lots of fresh but filling salads for lunch. Gorgeous summer tomatoes came in our CSA box this week and I am topping them with cottage cheese plus a handful of fresh basil and some avocado chunks.

Enjoy!

By Erin Gleeson for The Forest Feast

Portobello Cream Bites

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Portabello Cream Bites with goat cheese and garlic, yum! Jonathan and I recently made these for a cocktail party and they were a hit. We found pre-made pastry cups that we filled, but you could also put this cheesy, creamy mushroom mixture on crackers or crostini. I spooned the mixture in to a freezer ziplock bag, snipped the corner and piped it in. They are easy to make ahead and can be served at room temperature. Garnish with scallions and enjoy with a cocktail!

By Erin Gleeson for The Forest Feast

Herbed Blackberry Cocktail

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We have a huge blackberry bush right off the deck, and I have found a tasty new use for them. Fresh rosemary muddled with sweet blackberries plus tequila! Yes! Check out the recipe on my Better Homes & Gardens post today.

Cheers!

By Erin Gleeson for The Forest Feast

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Bacon and Basil Wrapped Dates

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Bacon & Basil Wrapped Dates! I have made these with real bacon, turkey bacon & veggie bacon. All are good (but real is the best!). Wrapping it in a fresh basil leaf after baking makes it feel a little less indulgent and a little more delish!

By Erin Gleeson for The Forest Feast

Afternoon Forest Light

Sorry for the lack of posts recently, I have been finishing up my cookbook (that comes out in the Spring!) and have been totally buried in it. I’m soooo excited about how it’s coming together though and can’t wait to share it with you!Here’s a littl…

Sorry for the lack of posts recently, I have been finishing up my cookbook (that comes out in the Spring!) and have been totally buried in it. I’m soooo excited about how it’s coming together though and can’t wait to share it with you!

Here’s a little pic of some late afternoon forest light to sweeten your Friday. Happy weekend!