Every once in a while I get a mood to cook something a little more involved and decided to try this recipe from a South Beach Diet cookbook. Nothing about the preparation is difficult or tricky, just requires some time. Little did I realize I would end up washing a cookie sheet, frying pan, saucepan and lid, large measuring cup, cutting board, cheese grater, nutmeg grinder, the garlic peeler and slicer, a whisk, assorted knives and stirring spoons. My kitchen was disaster by the time I put the casserole in the over, but the results were worth it. This recipe makes a hearty dish, layered with flavors and great for leftovers. Yes, I’ll make it again someday.
One of the best things about being a food blogger is tasting new recipes and trying out products. I was sent the Corn – n -Tater Microwave Cooking bag a while back and once I started using, it became a regular in my kitchen.
I am passionate about travel, along with my family and photography, and when I’m not traveling, I enjoy reading. I especially enjoy reading books that take place in locations I’ve visited. They allow me to relive the adventures I encountered in those destinations, and such was the case with Len Camarda’s The Seventh Treasure set in Spain.
The Seventh Treasure follows the story of Secret Service agent Gene Cerone, who travels to Granada, Spain to investigate the mysterious circumstances surrounding his sister’s death. Turns out her death was no accident and Cerone, with help from Lieutenant Mercedes Garcia, uncovers a hidden conspiracy that dates back to the time of the Moors.
Alhambra Gardens @ Debi Lander 2003
Although I recently toured Spain’s Balearic Islands, I visited Granada back in 2003. Still, I vividly remember the Alhambra as a massive palace complex, home Spanish Muslims as well as Isabel and Ferdinand. The buildings were unassuming from the outside, yet ornately geometric and beautiful on the inside. The gardens and fountains were particularly unusual and lovely, plus a cooling respite from the summer heat. Anyway, Camarda’s book spends a lot of time in and around the Alhambra.
Looking up at the Alhambra from a hotel in Granada.
My daughter Laura in the Court of Lions, 2003
I’ve read Dan Browne’s books because I enjoy the way he entwines mystery with historical facts. Len Camarda’s follows a similar path in this, his first novel, using the storyline from the Tales of the Arabian Nights. His writing is descriptive, he keeps the plot moving, and involves politics (in a similar fashion to Tom Clancy) and uses plausible methods to uncover the mystery.
If you like historical thrillers or are just looking for a good read, I suggest Len Camarda’s The Seventh Treasure — and, of course, a trip to Spain!
Disclosure: The Seventh Treasure was sent to me for review, but if I’d come across it in the bookstore I would have purchased it. I can honestly recommend it.
