A short New York City Adventure can feel impossible to plan because every neighborhood pulls you in a different direction. One moment you want skyline views from the water, the next you want Broadway lights, Central Park paths, Greenwich Village lunch, Queens history, and a Ground Zero tour that gives the city’s story real weight. This Blog post highlights what I and a dear friend from Greece visiting the USA did and truly enjoyed!

When I was a kid, waffles were my idea of heaven on a plate served with homemade jam, lots of sweetened whipped cream and when available, fresh wild berries . . as a treat or dessert, the Icelandic way! My mother, however, had other ideas of how we should enjoy our waffles! As a home economist who believed in healthy and nutritious cooking, she always made the waffle batter without sugar and often served us the waffles with savory toppings for breakfast or weekend brunch!

Some summer meals stay with you because the food is good. Others stay with you because everything lands at once: the sound of a warm welcome and more friends arriving, the first cold glass of Prosecco, the smell of lemon and seafood, and that easy moment when everyone finally slips into the pool. This was that kind of Pool Party!

Some places ask you to slow down before you even take a seat. One Woman Wines & Vineyards on Long Island felt like that kind of place from the moment I arrived. The air seemed quieter there. The rows of vines, the soft rhythm of the countryside, and the simple pleasure of a glass of wine made the visit feel less like an outing to check off a list and more like a pause I had needed.

Summer ushers in the pleasure of fresh vegetables, and this season, I'm back on Long Island enjoying my friend's vegetable garden in Mattituck, which has provided us with this year's initial eggplant harvest. Mattituck's climate is perfect for growing eggplants as the mix of warm days and cool nights help them develop a rich color and tender texture. Picking these shiny gems is always exciting but coming up with a straightforward delicious summer eggplant recipe was truly rew

After attending several events in Long Island, NY, USA last week for the 250th anniversary celebrations, I must admit it has offered a new insight into a rich historical world. It has given me a fresh perspective to delve deeper into the region's abundant historical heritage and has rekindled my interest in the colonial era, especially its culinary traditions.

After an early afternoon of picking apples at, I the Wickham Farm on Long Island, NU, USA, I returned home with several pounds of them. I thought it was the ideal time to use some of the apples, along with a large pumpkin from my friend John's vegetable garden to make some pie recipes I hadn't attempted to make in over 30 years! You could say the abundance of the autumn harvest inspired me, so I got to work roasting pumpkin and baking pies for several hours.

This past weekend, I visited the Hallockville Country Fair, a yearly highlight on Long Island that unites families and friends for two days filled with laughter, learning, and cherished memories. I must say, his air was much more than just a event; it honored local culture, history and the simple joys of rural life. With museum tours and interactive activities for children, if offered something for everyone, making it an event I was delighted to attend.

Today's melon salad recipe offers a delightful blend of flavor and nutrition in every bite. It features the sweetness of your preferred melon, combined with crunchy cucumber, protein-rich chickpeas, feta cheese and fresh herbs.

There is something truly special about stepping into your garden to harvest fresh basil which I've been doing from summer and into autumn. I love the basil's vibrant green leaves, fragrant aroma and its irresistible flavor in the salads and dishes I've been cooking lately.

When summer rolls around, fresh ingredients take center stage in our meals. One delightful combination that shines is the medley of roasted red beets, chickpeas and fresh peaches, all nestled in a bed of greens. This dish is visually stunning and brimming with nutrients. It's perfect for a light lunch or as a standout side at your next gathering!

As the summer heat approaches, there's nothing quite like a refreshing salad to help you beat the heat. One of my favorites is a delightful combination of juicy watermelon, tangy feta cheese, and crunchy pine nuts, all elevated by the freshness of basil and mint.

Although I was tempted to try one of their winery flights, I opted for their 2024 white Merlot, appreciating its delicate aroma of white peach and subtle hint of citrus zest. This was followed by a glass of the delightful 2021 Mercato, an herbaceous red fruit table wine that truly hit the spot!

Recently, while visiting friends in Long Island, NY, I had the privilege of attending an event hosted by the American Legion Southold Post 803 aimed at raising awareness about Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and BEtheONE Veterans Program. The guest speaker, FDNY Lt. Joe Torrillo, shared his compelling, Buried in the Rubble, survival story. As a first responder, he endured the horror of being buried alive, not once but twice, in the rubble of the Twin Towers.

On Saturday, June 14th, 2025, I was invited to join American friends at an event rich in history and national pride—the 250th Anniversary of the U.S. Army Grand Military Parade and Celebration in Washington DC. The blend of the Festival and the Parade filled the nation's capital with nostalgia and excitement, offering all of us a once-in-a-lifetime experience!

At the Sannino Winery, the blend of tradition and innovation was apparent in all facets of the vineyard's operations.

After spending several weeks in Mattituck during the summer and the festive holiday season I can confidently say that it is a hidden gem . .

Christmas uniquely unites people, weaving tales of friendship and forming enduring memories. This year I'm enjoying the season in Mattituck!