Zucchini, Carrot & Orange Cupcakes

Yes, these cupcakes have vegetables. But your little ones won't even notice them. They're very fragrant too, what with the orange zest and juice.

Strozzapreti with Cherry Tomatoes, Bell Peppers & Chorizo

Here's a dish inspired by something I ate at Rome a few weeks ago. It's Strozzapreti Pasta; literally, it means "priest strangler." Click here to learn more about the pasta's unique name.  I've mixed this with some very fresh cherry tomatoes and bell peppers in yellow and red, as well as some chorizo. You can use bacon too, but since I had an oversupply of chorizo in the ref, it seemed opportune to just use that.

Dutch Baby with Fresh Fruits, Mint & Chocolate

I have been Missing in Action in my blog for the past two weeks. :(  Was very busy at work and also went on a family trip to Italy! It's a good thing I have a "draft post reserve," and I'm calling on it right now by sharing a recipe of Dutch Babies. (Some Italian recipes later, after I experiment some more in the kitchen...)

Ever heard of Dutch Babies? It's a pancake cum popover cum Yorkshire Pudding that is served at breakfast. Actually, it's not even Dutch; it's American! It originated in Seattle, Washington and was first served at Manca's Cafe in the 1900s. See more of the history here.

A Dutch Baby, served in a cast iron grill. This version has fresh strawberries, plums, blueberries, mint, underneath a layer of melted chocolate.

Anyway, regardless of its origin, we love having it from time to time at breakfast. We love the crispy edges of the Dutch baby. Hubby eats the edges first, to enjoy the oven baked crispness, while I save the edges, the best for the last. Whichever way it's eaten, it's a Saturday morning breakfast family favourite.