Author: Debbi Covington

  I developed a fascination with French food in high school when our French III class learned how to prepare a number of classic French dishes. French cuisine offers a rich experience that ranges from simple, rustic country dishes to elaborate gastronomic feats.

  Friday night is Steak Night at our house. We love to invite our closest friends over for a casual evening and then fire up the grill! A juicy tenderloin steak served with baby new potatoes and a fresh green salad is a delicious way to start the weekend!

By Debbi Covington Who needs an excuse to have a party? Those of you who know me, know that I’ll make up a reason to celebrate something, even when there’s no real occasion. In this case, I think a little party to commemorate a milestone for me – and for Lowcountry Weekly – is in perfect order.

  This is my 249th Everyday Gourmet column.  Jeff, Margaret, Mark and the rest of the Lowcountry Weekly gang left our house only a few minutes ago. We just wrapped up a little 250th column celebration and photo shoot for the March 25th issue.

Did you watch the all-star tribute to Stevie Wonder television special last week? It was wonderful! I was 12 years old when Stevie’s album, Songs in the Key of Life, was at its peak. Listening to all of the old songs made me a bit homesick for my friends, my youth and the food that I grew up with.

Recipes and food styling by Debbi CovingtonPhotography by Mark Shaffer Roll out the red carpet! The 9th annual Beaufort International Film Festival is in full swing with film makers, directors, screen writers, movie stars and lots of film-loving fans. Our local film festival is a heatwave of fun and excitement during what is typically a chilly February. This year’s festival celebrates all things southern.

John Lennon said, “Life is what happens to you while you’re busy making other plans.” Isn’t that true? We’re all so busy, almost all of the time, and we put off celebrating the everydayness of our lives. Don’t forget to spend some quality time with the person you love the most. Always take the time to enjoy each other — today, tomorrow and every day. Take a break from the hustle and bustle of the outside world to spend a quiet evening at home with your true love.  These delicious recipes will ensure a great meal and a special night.                                                                          Photography: Susan DeLoach Photography

    What’s better on a blustery winter day than a bowl of steaming hot soup? Correct answer? Nothing’s better. These unseasonably cold days in Beaufort, SC have left me chilled to the bone. I guess I’m used to working in a warm kitchen over a hot stove.

  On November 18th, wine aficionado Larry Bernard and I taught a wine and food pairing class for OLLI (Osher Lifelong Learning Institute) at USC-B. Our class was limited to 30 people and sold out in the first few hours that it was offered. The recipes this week are a sampling of some of the wines and food that were served during our presentation. Larry and I will be offering a bourbon and food pairing class on February 2nd. For more information, contact Andrea Sisino at OLLI.

Blow the horns, throw the confetti and pop the cork on 2015 in sparkling style! A time for reflection as well as for reveling, the turning of the year provides an opportunity to look back with satisfaction and ahead with hope.  Invite a few guests for a toast of bubbly and then sit down to a palate-pleasing meal.