Amanda Palma

I often try to categorize my cooking style. At first I think about my love for Middle Eastern food and decide that must be my style, but then I remember my love for seafood, which doesn't exactly fit. So I shift to calling my style Mediterranean, but then I think about how much I enjoy cooking venison and beef, and they don't belong in that category. I could say my style reflects my Italian and Chinese heritage, but then I look at my pastry work and realize that doesn't fit neatly into those boxes.

By July, most people have mentally moved on from rhubarb. The first flush of excitement it brought in May and June has faded, and the spotlight is now on tomatoes, corn and berries. But if you live in Harpswell or cook with what's around, you'll notice that rhubarb doesn't always know it's supposed to be done.

I'm that person who falls head over heels for an ingredient and can't seem to get enough of cooking with it. The past few weeks, I have been in a zucchini phase. Last week, I made five batches of zucchini bread. Don't worry, I didn't devour all of it. I made most of it for my customers, but I did cut myself a slice or two.

As the days grow longer and the snow melts away, we begin to feel a familiar restlessness. The sun's out more, the air is a little warmer, and we're all itching to plant something. But the ground is still too cold, and the forecast keeps teasing us with frost. So, we wait. But while we wait for the season to fully shift, we cook.

I've never been a fan of springtime. Maybe it's because my sister loves it. If you're a sibling, you know you can never like the same things. Or maybe it's just the mud. Of course I enjoy the warmer weather and longer days, but they're overshadowed by my impatience for summer.

There's something uniquely powerful about stepping outside of your comfort zone. Whether it’s exploring a new hiking trail, picking up an unfamiliar hobby, or experimenting in the kitchen, trying new things is a simple yet powerful way to keep life exciting, creative and fulfilling.

February is a month of celebration of all things sweet and romantic. With Valentine's Day as its centerpiece, it's the perfect excuse to indulge in desserts that bring people together.

As the new year begins, many of us are setting resolutions to simplify our routines, eat healthier, and manage our busy schedules. With winter in full swing and daylight hours still precious, having easy, nutritious meals on hand can be a lifesaver.

As the holiday season begins, there's a certain magic in the air. The days grow shorter, the air grows cooler, and everything feels just a little more festive. For many of us, Christmas is a time for reflection, a time to slow down and savor moments with family, friends, and, of course, food.