I’m a big cake fan, though I only indulge on special occasions! Serve this low-fat, protein-packed cake with Spiced Hot Cocoa in the winter or chilled mint ice tea in the spring! Looking for a light treat for mother’s day? Mom will grin when you tell her that this delicious cake is low-fat!

By the time August rolled around, Granny always had plenty of shiny, dark green zucchini in her garden, even after giving basketfuls away to neighbors and to her local church. A hunk of fresh zucchini bread resting on our counter next to Granny’s coffee pot that hooted like an owl as it brewed didn’t last long when neighbors came to call.

Powered sugar coat these cookies baked with walnuts. Instead of white flour, I use whole grain flour, for a healthier twist. If you happen to have peanuts in the kitchen, they work just as well in place of walnuts.

Frozen cherries are a great fruit to keep on hand for snacks and quick desserts! Ideal for smoothies, cherries are naturally sweet, the frozen whole black cherries are fairly inexpensive, and store for months in your freezer. If you use fresh cherries, chill before serving.

A favorite for Sunday brunch but don’t forget the fresh horseradish. It really makes this classic special!

I call this tasty drink “Charlie’s” Chai named after my former staff photographer. Charlie’s face lit up when I offer to prepare a batch during a long day of shooting. Chai is a hot tea beverage that comes from India, deliciously sweet and spicy. Its rich flavor is a great substitute for coffee addicts trying to kick the habit! If you want to have a cup each morning, brew triple the batch and store in an air-tight container in the fridge for up to one week.