WOOF! As I lay in bed and try to recover from last night’s festivities (with McDonalds on the way), I can’t help but get excited about all the new cooking adventures I’m dreaming up for the new year. While writing this blog has certainly encouraged me to try out lots of new recipes, I haven’t gone too far out of my comfort zone yet, which is why I’m making all the big-time plans below. The following dishes are all foods that I love to eat, but have never tackled making at home. You’ll probably notice that most of what I’d like to try out is seafood related…because it’s the best, and I might be trying to pretend that I live on the ocean…

Also since I’ve never tried whipping these up myself, I’m open to any fabulous recipes you might have, so please send them along!

Lobster Rolls>

I would eat a lobster roll a day if they weren’t so expensive – I’m completely obsessed. This is for sure going to be the trickiest of my to-do’s, given it will require me to send off a lobster or two to salt-water heaven right in my kitchen (eep!) but I’m hoping Sir Dave will help me out there.

Scallops>

Can you believe I had my first scallop only about a year ago? I kind of had a thing about eating something living that didn’t have a face, I know – total weirdo. But I had my first bite at Girl and the Goat and have loved them ever since. I can’t wait to give these a try at home – I’m thinking trying them on the grill might be tasty.

New England Clam Chowder>

Love, love, love ordering up a bowl of creamy clam chowder with a frosty cold Allagash beer whenever we’re in New England, it’s just perfect. I can’t believe I’ve never made this one at home yet, long over-due.

Shrimp & Grits>

The shrimp and grits I ate at Husk in Charleston was probably one of my all time favorite meals. I know I likely won’t come close to replicating this insanely delicious experience but I’m going to give it my best try-to-be-a-southern-girl try.

Ricotta Cheese>

Alright, I have to have one non-seafood project on the list, so CHEESE it is! I’ve been eyeballing Queen Ina’s recipe for a bit now and it just seems so easy, I can’t believe I haven’t made it yet. I’m thinking this would be perfect in the summer as a showstopping opening nibble at a BBQ, but I’m not sure I can wait that long!

Alright y’all, that’ll wrap up part 2! One more list ahead on my wishful thinking foodie travel plans for 2015 and some Chicago restaurants that I just have to finally try in the new year!

Cheers!