We had a flub in Features and forgot to mention photographer Josh Meltzer’s wonderful strawberry picking video with the column today. So I’d like to share it with all of you now. I dare you, after watching this video, to NOT want a fresh, juicy strawberry to gnaw on!

In other news, Roanoke Public Libraries are hosting an Introduction to Thai Cooking class later this month. If you’re interested in learning more about this intoxicatingly delicious cuisine, check out the details after the jump.

And don’t forget to enter my Mother’s Day recipe contest! The prize consists of a whole package including a Pampered Chef apron, knife, spatula, measuring bowl and seasoning blend as well as a Betty Crocker cookbook written just for women.

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It’s difficult for me to pinpoint the one recipe I learned from my grandmother or my mother that stands out as a favorite. Both of those women taught me so much about cooking and life.

If I had to, though, I’d say that my Grandma Nair’s carrot-raisin salad is near the top of the list. It’s such a simple recipe, but it taught me that you don’t always need exact measurements to turn out a delicious taste. And as someone who generally is not that fond of carrots, it showed me that with an open mind, an adventurous spirit and the right combination of ingredients, a person can learn to love a dreaded food.

I’ll attach a loose version of Grandma’s recipe below. But I’d love to know what one recipe you have that always reminds you of your mother, grandmother, mother-in-law, godmother or another very special woman in your life.

Entries must include the actual recipe. They will go into a random drawing to win a prize that’s a little more elaborate than my usual Cookbook Giveaway. This one (pictured above) includes the Betty Crocker Cookbook for Women and a Pampered Chef apron, measuring bowl, spatula, paring knife and herb seasoning blend.

The deadline for entering is 5 p.m. Thursday. I’ll announce the winner Friday morning.
Good luck!

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