International

Grilled skewered shiitake, bell pepper and tomato

Whole caps of shiitake, chunks of bell pepper and diced tomatoes are tossed in olive oil, lemon juice, salt and pepper (yes, essentially a salad dressing), skewered and grilled over charcoal.

Too plain? The smoky flavor and aroma will surprise you.

Cook time: 5

Servings: 3 people

Spinach and cheese breakfast muffins

Combine all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, throw in scallions and spinach, stir in cheeses — cheddar for sharpness and pepper Jack for bite — and you have a delicious breakfast. They're great for afternoon tea too.

Cook time: 25

Servings: 12 medium muffins

Brain hemorrhage cocktail

Served as a scary Halloween drink, brain hemorrhage relies on specific gravity to form the distinct layers. The “brain” is the effect of the curdling of the cream component in Bailey’s Irish Cream when it hits the pool of peach schnapps.

Cook time: 0

Servings: 1 glass

Bacon and asparagus breakfast muffins

Rainy or sunny, there’s nothing like warm muffins and coffee to start the day. These bacon and asparagus muffins have cottage cheese in them too! Perfect for breakfast, snack and picnic.

Cook time: 30

Servings: 6 medium muffins

Arugula and mushroom salad

Button mushrooms pan-fried in butter are tossed with arugula (rocket) and nuts, dressed with honey balsamic vinaigrette, and garnished with shaved cheese in this any weather salad.

Cook time: 5

Servings: 1 person