Odd Combinations that Work

There are some combinations that you wouldn't think work, but do.  There is a tea that I really enjoy that is blackberry sage.  Sounds odd, but it really is good.  I also remember when Heather and I took a trip to Seattle with mom and had dinner at a very posh restaurant.  The waiter must have mentioned their "specialty" dessert a corn soup with blueberries.  No one at the table thought this sounded interesting and I think we ultimately decided on some sort of chocolate dessert.  However, when dessert arrived there was our chocolate and next to it this weird corn/blueberry dessert.  I can't say that is was the best thing ever but I didn't hate it either.  So in an effort to expand the horizons of both my husband and my children I have tried to introduce more variety and combinations.  I don't expect them to like everything but I at least like them to try a bite.  When Steph was here we mad a blackberry basil jam courtesy of Giada.  We were a little shocked at the amount of basil in the jam and decided to cut it in half.  In hindsight, I will make it again and add all the basil.  The second recipe is for a blueberry corn salad.  Crunchy, sweet, a little spicy,  and really good!  I have a few more things to post in the next few days.  Welcome summer!!!

blueberry corn salad

Blueberry Corn Salad

(Better Homes & Gardens)

6  ears of corn cooked kernels removed

1 c. fresh blueberries

1 cucumber sliced

1/4 c. chipped red onion

1/4 c. cilantro chopped

1 jalapeno seeded and chopped

2 T. lime juice

2T olive oil

1 T. honey

1/2 t. cumin

Combine corn, blueberries, cucumber, red onion, cilantro and jalapeno

For dressing in a jar combine remaining ingredients, shake then pour over corn mixture

I let this sit in the fridge overnight and served it with salmon cakes for dinner.  

blackberry basil jam

Blackberry Basil Jam

(courtesy of Giada)

16 oz bag of frozen blackberries thawed

4 c. fresh basil leaves

2/3 c. sugar

1/4 c. orange juice

3 T. lemon juice

In a food processor combine basil, sugar, OJ, and lemon juice. Combine with blackberries in a medium saucepan over medium heat.  Simmer until mixture is thick, stirring occasionally 25-30 minutes.  Remove from heat and allow jam to cool for 1 hour.

We had this with some peach ginger scones that were soooo yummy.  I'll post a recipe soon.