2008, A Year in Review

The beginning of 2009 is not only a time to celebrate the new year, by setting goals and resolutions for the coming months, but also a time to reflect upon what the past year has given to us. I thought that a review of my favorite recipes from the past year would be a great way to end the year.

Daring Bakers Challenge
Danish - Now that I think about this delicious danish, I need to make it again. It was simply amazing and so much fun to make. Definitely a show-stopping breakfast or brunch treat.


Appetizer
Three-Cheese Spread This spread was great, the combo of cheeses went really well together and it was the perfect topper for crackers.

Bread
Garlic Knots I could not just pick one item in this category. I am sure you all know that I am a carb-aholic and can not get enough bread. These garlic knots were definitely addicting. I could probably eat my weight in them but then I would weigh about 5 times as much as I do now, so I suppose that is not a good idea.


Italian bread
Peter Reinhart definitely created the perfect Italian bread with this recipe. It was simply amazing and looked beautiful.


Breakfast
Bacon, Potato, and Cheddar Frittata This was so delicious I made it quite a few times over the course of the year. It is perfect for entertaining for breakfast or brunch.


Chicken
Buffalo Chicken Strips I don't know what it is about these but I just can not get enough of them. The crunchiness and spiciness make them totally delicious.


Dessert
French Chocolate Brownies These are the best brownies I have ever had. Definitely my new go to brownie recipe. Dorie Greenspan hit a home run with these.



Pasta
Fresh Fettuccine Alfredo This recipe was so very good. Not only was it the first time I made a real alfredo sauce but it was also the first time I made homemade pasta. Hooked I tell you, I am seriously hooked on fresh pasta. It is beyond amazing.


Side dish
Herbed Rice Pilaf I am so glad that I came across this recipe. The rice was cooked perfectly and tasted delicious. I really like the crunch that the almonds added.


Honorable mentions
Pizza Napolenta This crust was so delicious and would be perfect for a make your own pizza party due to the amount of dough that it made. I really enjoyed making this recipe because it was my first time tossing pizza dough. You should give it a try, it was really fun.


Whole Wheat Pizza Dough
This is my go-to recipe for pizza dough when I need it quickly for a last minute dinner decision. It tastes great and can even be made the night before and stored in the fridge.


Italian Pinwheels
These are a quick and easy appetizer or snack that is always a hit


Rocky Road Ice Cream This ice cream was amazing. So smooth and velvety with the perfect chocolate flavor. Definitely amazing.