We've had two false springs so far, and a third one is forecast for this weekend, with abundant sunshine and warm temperatures. I think I'll get my herb garden started, along with some hot pepper plants. Italian basil, parsley, oregano, and thyme are my staples, along with a cayenne pepper, jalapeño pepper, and serrano pepper plant. I've had no luck growing tomatoes in containers, so I'll give them a pass, probably.

For the recipes this week, I'm looking forward to grilling the jalapeño-honey steak Saturday night, we had the tortellini dish for dinner last night with some mustard leaves and basil leaves added into the mix, and for those of you going meatless on Fridays for Lent, the fettuccine in cream sauce from Emeril Lagasse is sure to please. It calls for crawfish, but any seafood will be great.

Enjoy the recipes, stay safe and healthy, and, as always, let me know what's on your mind. 

Best regards,

Susan Ford, Publisher and Editorial Director

Louisiana Kitchen & Culture

Last week's recipes:

• Stir-Fried Shrimp with Lemon-Ginger Sauce

• Cajun Steaks with Louisiana Slaw

• Pan-Fried Pork Chops with Green Beans

Jalapeno-Honey Steak

This bright, fresh recipe benefits from at least a 2-hour and up to an overnight marinade session, so plan in advance. Our weekened is supposed to feature ample sunshine, and I'm looking forward to firing up the grill.

Fettuccine with Seafood Cream Sauce

From Emeril Lagasse, the original recipe calls for crawfish, but feel free to use any type of seafood, including finfish, that you desire.

Chicken Tortellini with Asparagus

This is one of those dishes that can easily turn into a clean-out-the-produce-bin concoction. Fresh spring asparagus is what's called for, but any combination of fresh vegetabes is perfect. I'd even throw in a handful of baby spinach or mustard greens.