Katie Brown (1)

A few weeks ago I won the book "Katie Brown Celebrates" from the book blog bookingmama.blogspot.com and the Hachette Book Group. I received it the other day and couldn't wait to look through it. I LOVE cookbooks! I could sit and read through cookbooks all day long. But, this is more than a cookbook, it is a party planner and a cookbook all in one. The photos are amazing and make everything look so easy and beautiful. I am hosting my Niece-to-be's wedding shower in April and there are a few ideas from this book that I would like to incorporate. There are also some great ideas for a kids party as well. There is a theme for each month including decorations, food, and even party favors/crafts. Some of the recipes are so easy I was amazed how they end up looking so delicious and elaborate! I can't wait to try some of them! So, if there is someone in your life who loves to throw parties, cook, or create unique crafts, this book is for them! You can go here to get more information about this book http://www.hachettebookgroup.com/books_9780316118187.htm… (meer)

Katie Brown Celebrates is full of beautiful, full page, color photographs, easy and crative crafts, and delicious and different recipes! So far I have made:

Cinnamon-Sugar Crisps with Orange Creme fraiche - very easy to make and delicious. These were especially good with a cup of coffee! I ended up eating most of the orange creme fraiche as a dip with strawberries and that was fantastic!

Honey-Spice Almond - The first time I made these I thought they had way too much salt in them. The second time I cut the salt back and they were perfect. I love spiced nuts but have never used almonds. These make a nice addition to the maple pecans I usually make. The cumin, paprika, and sesame seeds make them a little different.

Moroccan Carrot Salad - This was nice for a different, bright salad that can easily be made in the winter. Nothing spectacular but I will probably make it again.

Pear Salad with Jicama, Radish, and Celery - This was my favorite recipe so far. Its crisp and refreshing, a little sweet and perfect to liven up a winter meal.

Spicy Butternut Squash Soup - I made this for the Super Bowl and it was a big hit. Roasting the squash in butter instead of olive oil gives the whole soup a delicious, buttery flavor that was distinct from other butternut soups I've made. This has become my go-to butternut squash soup!

I can see that I will be using this cookbook a lot! I am looking forward to trying Grilled Pork Ribs and the Moroccan Braised Chicken!… (meer)