This recipe makes enough for two 9-inch pie crusts.  This is a great crust for Blueberry Pie.
In a shallow bowl, mix together:
3 cups flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
Add:
6 tablespoons vegetable shortening
6 tablespoons cold butter, cut into pieces
Using two knives or a pastry blender, cut the mixture until it resembles crumbs.  Slowly start adding ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, using a fork or pastry blender to combine the mixture.  Continue to to this just until the dry ingredients cling together, but mixture is not too wet.  You could add up to …

Although this chocolate lava cake is rich, it is not overly heavy. It is perfect for a Valentine’s Day dinner celebration, New Year’s Eve, or any other special occasion. It is wonderful dessert for small dinner parties because it can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving.

Lobster is such a decadent food and perfect for any special occasion.  The first time I made it was for my husband on Valentine’s Day.  I couldn’t believe how easy it was.  Living in San Francisco, we have access to great lobster tails and when they are on sale, it is such a delicious treat.  Although fresh lobster tails are best, I have tried frozen and been pleased as well.  Just allow them to defrost before you cook them.
In a large skillet, (that has a lid) over medium heat, bring …

This is a great side dish for a special occasion or just any night of the week.  They are an excellent side dish to Prime Rib or Filet Mignon Roast.  These twice baked potatoes are so easy to make and can be made ahead of time so you can spend less time out of the kitchen if you are entertaining.
Preheat oven to 400 degrees.  Using a fork, poke a few holes into 5 washed potatoes (russet is a great baking potato).  Place directly onto rack and bake for 60 to …

Since I have a two year old, I wanted to make really fun gingerbread Christmas cookies this year. After seeing a gingerbread man in Starbucks, she decided that was the cookie we should make. I love gingerbread, but usually find it so heavy. I love this recipe because the cookies are light but still moist. This will be a cookie I make every year. Plus they were fun to decorate, but not as time consuming as sugar cookies.