Hello from the Midwest!

As we wrap up Valentine’s Day and look ahead to President’s Day, I’m thinking about George Washington and that famous cherry tree.

As the story goes (whether fact or fiction) young George Washington chopped down his father’s cherry tree. According to Washington biographer, Mason Weems, when asked if he was responsible for chopping the tree, Washington replied, “I cannot tell a lie.”

Well, this cherry tree tale reminds me of traveling to Washington DC for a high school choir competition years ago. After the LONG bus trip from Iowa to our nation’s capitol, I vividly remember being blown away seeing the beautiful cherry blossoms that were in bloom. While in DC, we stopped to see all the sites, including the Washington monument.

As we take a moment to celebrate President’s Day, I want to share some of my favorite cherry recipes. One dessert we’ve enjoyed in our house for years is “Cherry Cheesecake Tarts”. They are individual cheesecakes made in puff pastry shells. The pastry shells make a pretty presentation.  Before topping the cheesecakes with cherries, I like to stir in some almond extract to really bring out the flavor.

Another cherry recipe you might want to tuck in your file for this year’s Easter dinner is “Ham with Cherry Sauce.” I love the dark sweet cherries and the creative twist they lend to this easy ham recipe.

I hope to see you at one of the spring cooking schools!  Happy Cooking!

Karen Davis, Culinary Specialist, Taste of Home Cooking School