We love to cook and we appreciate people who pass on their cherished recipes to us.  Every couple of weeks we will add one of our favorite recipes.

STRAWBERRIES DURBIN

Slice 1 pint or 1 quart of strawberries into a large bowl. Add to taste: Powdered sugar Brown sugar Honey A little water Grand Marnier to taste Stir until sugars are dissolved. Place in refrigerator until cooled. Serve over vanilla ice cream.

AVOCADO AND GRAPEFRUIT SALAD

Onto a salad plate place: Lettuce leaves to cover the plate Slice an avocado into 8 pieces and place on the lettuce Peel and section a grapefruit, placing it on top of the avocado Place a cherry tomato in the middle of the salad Dress with italian dressing Place in refrigerator to cool until served

SWISS MEATLOAF

Mix together: 1 # hamburger Either a slice of bread or bread crumbs 1 egg 1/2 can of tomato sauce 1/4 cup of swiss cheese (we actually use whatever cheese is available) 1 teaspoon of carraway seeds 1/2 onion Place in loaf pan and cook at 375 until almost done (30-45 minutes) During last 10 minutes pour other half of tomato sauce over top of loaf along with anotherh 1/4 cheese Cook til cheese is melted

RHUBARB CAKE

If you have as much extra rhubarb as we do, you'll enjoy this recipe. 1 1/2 c sugar 1/2 c shortening 1 egg 1 c sour milk (1 T lemon Juice or vinegar plus sweet mik to make a cup) 1 t vanilla 2 c flour 1/2 t salt 1/2 t soda 2 c rhubarb, cubed 1/2 c nuts chopped Cream sugar and shortening.  Add egg, Add remaining ingredients and mix well.  Pour into greased 9 x 13 pan.  Sprinkle top with 1/2 cup sugar combined withn 1/2 teaspoon cinammon. Bake at 350 for 40 minutes.

BRINED TURKEY

1 fresh turkey 18 peppercorns 2 cups Kosher salt 6 sprigs fresh thyme 1 1/2 cup brown sugar 5 cloves garlic, crushed 1 large thumb ginger, sliced (optional) 8-10 juniper berries (optional The evening before cooking, bring 2 quarts of water to boil, add salt and sugar, and stir to dissolve.  Add remaining spices and simmer for sveral minutes, then cool.  Pour into a clean 5-gallon bucket and place in refrigerator, or in garage less than 40 degrees.  Add about 2 gallons of ice water, turkey, and enough cold water to submerge bird.  Cover and brine overnight.  Remove, rinse, pat dry, season and roast.

MACK AND ANDI'S PERFECT MARGARITA

Get a 2 cup measuring cup. Pour Tequila up to the 4 oz mark  (we use and highly recommend Herra Dura Gold) Pour Cointreau up to the 6 oz mark Finish to the top of the 2 cup mark with Tavern Brand Sweet & Sour Mix Add the juice of one lime Pour into a blender jar 1/2 to 3/4 full of ice.  Blend until smooth. Pour into glasses with salted rims and emjoy.

SLUSHES

Fill a blender almost full of ice.  Add 2 jiggers boubon 1 1/2 jiggers rum 1 jigger creme de menthe 1/2 can frozen limeade 1/2 can frozen lemonade Blend together. Pour into glasses and enjoy!

BARBE'S APPLE PIE (ABSOLUTELY THE BEST WE'VE EVER TASTED!)

Topping - mix together and set aside 1/2 c sugar 3/4 c flour 1/3 c butter Seasoning - mix and set aside 1/2 c sugar 1 1/2 tsp cinnamon 1 pie crust - uncooked 5 large Granny Smith apples lemon or lime juice Peel, quarter, core and slice apples.  Toss with lemon juice to keep them from turning brown.  Sprinkle a small amount of the toppinng in the pie crust.  Arrange a layer of apple slices.  Sprinkle with cinnamon and sugar mixture.  Repeat layering with the remaining apples and seasoning mix.  Mount the apples high as they will shrink during baking.  Press topping over apples. Bake at: 450 degrees for 10 minutes 350 degrees for 40 minutes

MACK AND ANDI'S GAZPACHO

Ingredients: 2 lbs (8 to 10 medium) sun-ripened red tomatoes, cored and chopped (or Roma tomatoes will work) 2 celery stalks, chopped 1 small red bell pepper, cored, seeded, and chopped 1 large English cucumber (we used 3 cukes out of our garden instead) peeled, halved lengthwise, seeded, and chopped 4 cloves garlic 1 large red onion, peeled and chopped (we used 4-5 large bulbed green onions out of the garden) 1 small zucchini halved lengthwise and chopped (seeded if necessary) 1 carrot chopped 1 ½ cups V-8 juice ½ cup vegetable broth or water ½ cup extra virgin olive oil (we use ¼ c extra virgin and ¼ c extra light) ½ cup packed fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves 2-3 tbsps sugar 1 T plus 1t red wine vinegar 1 T plus 1t sherry wine vinegar 1T plus 1 t lime juice (we used key lime juice but any will do) 2T kosher or sea salt ½ t ground paprika ½ t cayenne 1 t black pepper In a large non-reactive bowl, stir together all ingredients.  Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 2 hours. In batches, transfer the gazpacho mixture to a food processor fitted with the stainless-steel blade and pulse the machine until the soup is coarsely pureed; transfer the batches, as ready, to another non-reactive bowl.  Stir the mixture to blend the batches.  Taste it and add salt and pepper to taste and a little more sugar, if necessary, to highlight the sweetness of the tomatoes.  Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until well chilled, several hours more. We served with rosemary bread slices.

POTATO AND LEEK SOUP

3 leeks cleaned and thinly sliced 1 1/2 pounds potatoes peeled and cut into small chunks 1 1/2 teaspoons fresh thyme 2 cloves garlic minced 6 cups chicken stock 1/2 c lite sour cream 3-4 teaspoons sherry Salt and pepper to taste Sautee leeks in 1 teaspoon oil until tender (about 10 minutes) Add the thyme and garlic and continue to cook for another 2 minutes Add the chicken stock and bring to a boil.  Turn down to simmer and cook uncovered for 10 minutes. Strain the stock from the leeks.  Process the leeks with a food processor and return to stock (or use a boat motor).  Add the potatoes.  Continue to simmer for 10 minutes covered or until potatoes are done.  Mash the potatoes while still in the stock (or use the boat motor again).  Add the sherry and sour cream and heat through. Serve with fresh bread on a cold day.

REALLY REALLY GOOD FISH CHOWDAH

Compliments of Liz Roodberg 2 T butter 2 3/4 C chopped onion 1 C chopped carrot 3/4 C chopped celery 3 cloves minced garlic 1 small can tomato paste 1 C dry white wine 2 C chopped peeled red potato 2 C water 1 t dried thyme 1 t salt 1/2 t fresh pepper 2 (8 oz) bottles clam juice 1 (28 oz) diced tomatoes - undrained 1 bay leaf 2 lbs halibut cut up  - use any white fish you want.  I've used sea scallops, bay scallops, and shrimp In a Dutch oven melt butter and sauté' onion, carrots, celery and garlic for 10 minutes. Add tomato paste and sauté' for one minute Add wine and sauté' for another minute Now add potato through bay leaf and bring to a boil Lower heat and simmer for 30 minutes Add fish, cover, simmer for 10 minutes or until fish flakes (or shrimp is pink, or whatever, until the fish is cooked!) Serves Six

HOT CRAB DIP

1 lb craba meat 1 cup sour cream 2 - 8 oz cream cheese 4 T mayonnaise 2 t Old Bay Seasoning 1/2 cup cheddar cheese 1/2 t lemon juice 1 t olay mustard 3 shakes garlic salt Combine all ingredients but the cheese, put the cheese on top, back at 350 til bubbling or cheese is brown.

CEVICHE

1 1/2 pounds of boneless, firm white fish like Halibut, Red Snapper or Haddock 3 medium tomates, peeled and chopped 4 T finely chopped onion 4 T chopped green chilies (canned) 1/3 c olive oil 1 T chopped cilantro or parsley 1 medium (size, not shade) green pepper, chopped 1 T white vinegar 1/4 t dried oregano 1 c fresh lime juice (8-10 limes) Salt and Pepper 1 ripe avocado, sliced Wash fish very well and pat dry.  Skin and cut into 1/4" x 1" strips and place ina glass bowl or baking dish.  Cover fish with lime juice, cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, turning occasionally.  Drain off the lime juice. At least one hour before serving add remaining ingredients except for avocado, toss and chill. Garnish with any avocado slices you haven't already consumed in preparation. Services 6-8.

RESTAURANTS

We like to eat out as much as we like to cook.  Here we'll try to review some of our favorites.

ADAGIO BAKERY

Why aren't there more of these neighborhood bakeries in town?  This delightful place in Park Hill has freshly baked cookies, cakes and scones along with great coffee.  It's a good place to meet the neighbors and sit a spell.  Located on 23rd Avenue just east of Colorado Blvd.

BUD'S BAR

We have searched the entire country for burgers as good as the ones at Bud's.  We haven't found any.  In fact, we've talked to people all over the country and, if they know about Bud's, they agree it has the best!  No french fries, just burgers and beer.  Located in Sedalia, CO between Denver and Castle Rock.

CHERRY CREST MARKET

OK, we know we live in Denver and the chances of us getting fresh fish are pretty slim, but at Cherry Crest they get fish as fresh as possible and they prepare it very, very well.  They usually have a special that is great.  Don't overlook the appetizers which are huge and delicious. And don't forget to check out the fresh fish case where you can take it home and prepare it yourself.  Located on S University at Orchard.

GARRAMONE'S

We started going to this place because a person we bowl with is the cook.  We keep coming back because the food is good, the service is friendly and the prices are reasonable.  We usually have the sausage sandwich with peppers and cheese (and usually split that).  Located in a little shopette on Garrison St between Kiping and Wadsworth.

JADE GARDEN

Located at Arapahoe and Holly in the King Soopers Center, this is our favorite Chinese restaurant in the city.  Owned by the same family that owns The Imperial on Broadway, we think their food is superior.  Try the Hot & Sour soup for starters.  We have fixated on the Happy Family but anything we have tried is really good.

McCORMICK & SCHMICK'S

This national chain has recently opened two restaurants in Denver - one in LoDo and one in DTC.  We had a family gathering there and totally enjoyed the food and the service.  Each of us ordered something different and every entree was perfectly prepared.  For a seafood house it was reasonably priced.

PAGLIACCI'S

This incredible Italian restaurant has been in Denver since at least the 30's and the food is still good.  We could (and probably should) stop with the minnestrone soup.  Served in a never empty crock at table side, it's the perfect starter on a cold night.  We've tried just about everything and love it all.

TORRES RESTAURANT

Located on S Federal Blvd, this place has some of the best margs in town along with typical American Mexican food.  Plus they have live mariachi on Sundays.  Very reasonably priced, good for that quick mid-week Mexican fix.

MAGGIANO'S LITTLE ITALY

This may be the most popular Italian restaurant in town judging by the number of people waiting to get in the last time we were there.  Frankly, we thought the food was mediocre and the prices were extravagant.  Of everthing we tried, the ravioli was the best.  Desserts are good but HUGE.  Plus it's very loud.

YANNI'S

When was the last time the owner of the place met you at the door with bottle in hand?  Well, at Yanni's you start with ouzo and go from there.  Fresh Greek specialities including lamb on the spit on the weekends.  If you like Greek food, you'll love this place.

CAFE TERRACOTTA

Don't you love those little restaurants in old Victorian homes where you can sit inside or outside in the garden?  This is one of the best.  Just off of Main St in Littleton on Curtice, this place packs them in forbreakfast,  lunch and dinner with it's small but well thought out menu and excellent service.  Ask Alex for that perfect bottle of wine.

CHIANTI

There are so many Italian restaurants in Denver you'd think we were in Rome.  This little place at Belleview and Yosemite is one of the best.  Everything is made from fresh ingredients with a little twist.  Although small and crowded, we found the menu to be well priced and the wine list fits the menu.

TABLES

This is a little neighborhood place in Park Hill at 2267 Kearney.  Owned by a husband and wife it features really, really good sandwiches along with salads and a hot special of the day.  Reasonably priced it's a perfect stop if you're in the neighborhood.

NEW YORK DELI NEWS

Whether you're from New York or not, sometimes you just need a good deli sandwich.  The New York Deli News delivers great deli sandwiches and much, much more.  We usually split something because the portions are huge.  Located on Hampden Ave just east of Monaco.

NEW HAPPY RESTAURANT

This is one of those little Chinese restaurants tucked away in a small shopping center that has good food at reasonable prices.  It's close to home and it has good take out so we find ourselves picking up the Chow Mein while driving by.  Located at Sheridan and Dartmouth.

ROMANO'S

This Littleton restaurant has been in business since the 1960's serving traditional Italian food at reasonable prices.  You can also get house wine by the liter.  Get here early on the weekend or be prepared to wait.

HIGHLAND'S GARDEN CAFE

Without a doubt, one of the best places in Denver for Sunday brunch.  They have three patios surrounded by lush gardens where you can while away a Sunday (or lunch and dinner through the week).  Plus a beautiful old home if you wish to be seated inside.  The food is really good and the prices are right. www.highlandsgardencafe.com

JIM'S BURGER HAVEN

When you're on the run and you cana't handle McDonald's, we recommend Jim's.  Home of the 6" burger, this family run burger joint has perfect onion rings, think milk shakes and malts and a 50's/hot rod theme.  We'll go out of the way to get a Jim's fix.  Two locations at 88th and Washington and 80th and Sheridan.

NONO's CAFE

Do You Know What It Means to Miss New Orleans?  Well, you can be back there in a minute at Nono's.  Scrumptious gumbo, wonderful catfish po'boys and, of course, red beans and rice.  Just add a jazz band. Located at County Line Road and Santa Fe Dr.  www.nonoscafe.com

RACINE'S

Every city needs that restaurant you can go to for breakfast, lunch, brunch, dinner and after the show - and that is reasonably priced.  In Denver that place is Racine's.  Located just minutes from downtown but easily accessible from anywhere we use this place for lunch meetings with clients and vendors - or just for a quick bite.  www.racinesrestaurant.com

STEAKHOUSE 10

We so love neighborhood restaurants.  You usually get quality food at reasonable prices.  And because they are in the neighborhood, the owners get to know all their customers.  This place is less than a mile from our house and may have the best steaks in Denver. Either get there early or have a reservation. Located on S. Elati St just south of Hampden Ave.

TAMALE KITCHEN

We have searched everywhere to get a guacamole tostado as good as this one - without success.  And everything else on the menu is just as good. Our favorite location is on Morrison Rd just west of Sheridan.  www.thetamalekitchen.com

VALENTE'S

We need to have a good Italian restaurant in every corner of the city so we can stop wherever we happen to be.  Valente's is in Wheatridge on 38th west of Wadsworth.  It's been owned by the same family since 1964 and is just a good family Italian restaurant  where you can have a good red sauce and a nice chianti without breaking the bank.

THE WELLSHIRE INN

When we need a place where we can relax and actually hear each other speak we come here.  In business for decades, the food is always perfectly prepared, the service is excellent and the wine list is good.  Located on Colorado Blvd just north of Hampden Ave.

THE FORT, MORRISON, COLORADO

This long time Denver landmark has hosted Presidents and Kings.  The food is exotic but perfectly prepared.  We had buffalo a couple of different ways along with quail.  A reasonably priced wine list is appreciated.  This is not a place to eat at every week, but it's great for a special night out.  Try for a table out on the patio to appreciate the stars!

FRONT STREET CAF€, FAIRPLAY, COLORADO

This small (10 tables) restaurant just west of the old Hotel and just South of the Front Street Museum is owned and operated by a former 3 star chef who wanted to retire to a small town.  He did and the food is wonderful!  Reasonably priced, richly seasoned and cooked to perfection, we highly recommend this treasure if you're anywhere close to Fairplay.

BETTY'S CAF€, GRAND LAKE, COLORADO

Remember those old restaurants with the creaky floors and the wooden chairs that didn't match? Well, that's what you've got at Betty's along with the best cinnamon rolls this side of Johnson's Corners.  The regular menu is good, but the cinnamon rolls...

ROSI'S BAVARIAN RESTAURANT, GLENWOOD SPRINGS

Tucked into a small space quite close to the pool, Rosi's is a great alternative for breakfast in Glenwood.  We tried everything from waffles to biscuits and gravy and it was uniformly good.  Save room for some of the homemade pastry out of the front case.

PEPPO NINO

Absolutely the best Italian in Glenwood.  Just under the bridge, there is a great patio that is perfect for wine sipping and quiet discussions.  Try the veal parmigian - you'll thank us for this tip!

ARIZONA RESTAURANTS

CHARLIE CLARKS - SHOWLOW/PINETOP

This is the best steakhouse we've eaten in outside of Morton's!  Tender steak, generous sides and everything included in the price.  It's where the local's eat.

COWBOY CLUB - SEDONA

Another great steak house.  They have two dining rooms and always a wait. If you need a good steak in one of the most gorgeous places in this country, try this one!

NEW MEXICO RESTAURANTS

GRANT CORNER INN - SANTA FE

OK, it's Sunday morning and you're in Santa Fe.  Go directly to the Grand Corner Inn just off the square.  This is a B&B that has expanded it's B (breakfast) to include the public.  Don't even think twice - just order the Eggs Benedict and sit back and enjoy Sunday morning on the porch.

EL PINTO - ALBUQUERQUE

Sitting in a grove of cottonwood trees, this HUGE restaurant (seats 1000!) serves pretty good food.  The green chile is not hot but does have good flavor.  Try for a table on the patio.

CANCUN, MEXICO RESTAURANTS

On our latest trip there we ate at three great places that we highly recommend:

HACIENDA EL MORTRERO

This upscale Mexican restaurant has the best tortilla soup we've ever tasted.  Add the incredible Verde Sauce and the Hibiscus Salad Dressing and you've got a real winner.  Then there are the larger-than-life margs and live mariachi.  In one week we ate there three times.

BOGART'S

Walk into Casablanca on the beach.  White decorations, cushions under your feet and Sam playing the white baby grand.  Mexican waiters in fez (!) completed the decor.  And the food was excellent.  Mack had rack of lamb perfectly prepared while Andi dined on the special fish of the day.  It was a quiet, relaxing place to dine.

CAMBALACHE

Touted as the best steak house in Cancun, they're not far wrong.  The place was packed on a Monday evening.  The smallest steak on the menu was 14 oz but was tender and cooked to perfection.  The sides were also good.  This is the one place in Cancun where we got a decent bottle of wine.  When you get tired of shrimp, go here.