Locally Grown: Start the new year with comfort foods

With the new year come thoughts of healthy eating and resolutions to lose weight.

The thoughts are fleeting.

In the cold of January, I don't think light and healthy. I crave rich, warm, comforting foods.

This could be a carry-over from growing up in a state where the average January temperature is 10 degrees. Or it could be that the added warmth from a stove or oven is welcome when the thermostat is set on "heat" rather than "cool."

Whatever the excuse, my palate is more apt to be pleased with macaroni and cheese or meatloaf and mashed potatoes than with baked fish and steamed veggies. Give...