Cook's corner: Refreshing drinks, salads and soups

This week, I’m sharing a new cold drink, a cold salad and a cold soup. This first recipe is for a cobbler … a Deep South word that comes from an Old English punch made with wine or liquor, fruit juice and sugar. This combination is cool and so refreshing.

Cook's Corner: No-bake, easy treats for the last weeks of summer

This week I have some new recipes for no-bake desserts that are easy and so good, without turning on the oven. I have two new recipes using cherry tomatoes and three easy desserts that are all-time favorites of friends that I think you’ll want to try either now or later.

Simple make-ahead lunches for the busy school year

As sure as the sun will rise each morning, the school year rolls around each August, and the task of making healthy school lunches that kids will actually eat is put back on the daily to-do list for parents.

Easy summertime cooking to keep your cool

This week I’m keeping it very cool with four new recipes for easy summertime “cooking.” These first two come from faithful Sun reader Kelly Clayman, who made them and served them to her family recently with great results.

Cook’s Corner: A taste of Germany, years in the making

A "few" years ago when I was at Austin College, the A Cappella Choir went on a concert tour in Europe, and while we were in Germany, it had been arranged for us to split up into small groups and go to homes in Berlin for a family dinner with a host family.

Cook's Corner: It feels like summer, so stay cool with these foods 

Summertime is here and we’re all hoping for a mild one with some rain here and there, but odds are it will just be hot! With that in mind, today I’m sharing a few new recipes that don’t require an oven and are fresh, cool and easy to make!

Wonderful new things to try this week

I’ve had the good fortune to have been fed by several friends in the last week, and deliciously so! Of course, I’ve asked for recipes so that you can benefit indirectly from their cooking as well. I also have two other great tastes to share today from my own kitchen.

Fun foods for any weather

This week is hodgepodge week, with recipes I’ve been given and served from friends, plus a new one that I’ve found on my own!This first recipe is for the most delicious soup that Tammy Hays made and brought over one day when I was feeling a little under the weather, and it really hit the spot!

Birthday burgers and cookie balls

Last week, I was happy to receive three new recipes from friends that I’ll share today. This first recipe comes from interior designer and friend, Dawn Hearn (a great cook!) who made it for her brother’s birthday. Instead of beef, these burgers use ground chicken and are delicious!

Wake up to a great breakfast

Last week and weekend, I got to spend in Austin with my grandsons Jack and Cole while Cate and Bill were traveling. Then I went to Dallas for a close friend’s daughter’s wedding. While there, I stayed with college roomie Rebecca and husband Ronny.