In the culinary world, “space” can refer to quite a few different things. It could mean “negative” space, which is a garnishing term for the clean space around the edge of a plate with the food in the center. It could also mean “counter” space, or “storage” space, or even “fridge” space. I suppose it could mean freeze-dried food like they eat in “outer” space, but that might be a stretch.

When I think about space in my kitchen I am thinking about the all important “counter” space. I recently had a little “clear off the counters” party in my kitchen. It had gotten to a point where I was always crowded as I worked by objects and items that I needed but simply had no where else to put them except on the counter. So I thought today we could list a few space saving tips for those with crowded kitchens.

Ditch the big block of knives- I found great magnetic knife strips at Target that could be easily mounted on the wall above the counter.

Eliminate the coffee bar- I had a huge coffee maker that took up a whole corner on my counter. That would be okay if 10 people drank coffee at my house every morning, but that’s not the case. A small half-pot maker is much less space consuming.

Thin out your junk drawer- Every kitchen has that drawer that serves as a catch-all for junk. If you clean it out you might discover something you forgot you had. I found a twenty dollar bill, woo hoo!

Keep the kitchen clean- if you’re anything like me you walk into the house with your hands full and set everything down on the kitchen counter. By avoiding this,will help you have plenty of space when you start cooking.

There are countless other ways to increase space in your kitchen, and I hope you will all share with us how you make the most out of your space.

This week’s recipe is going to be short, but sweet. With football season approaching, the parties will start in full force and tailgating will be on everyone’s mind. This apple pie recipe should be a perfect bring along for the pregame festivities, and will even look good sitting on your clean countertops!

Deep Dish Apple Pie:
5 lbs apples, peeled and sliced thin
½ stick butter
2 tsp cinnamon, ground
2 tsp nutmeg, ground
2 Tbsp sugar
1 pre-made pie crust

1. Place some of the apples in a deep baking dish.
2. Sprinkle with a little of the Cinnamon, Nutmeg, and Sugar.
3. Cut the butter into little pieces and place them throughout the apples evenly. This is called “dotting” with butter.
4. Repeat these layers till all the ingredients are used.
5. Cover with piecrust and bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes or until brown and the apples are soft.

Of course, this will taste even better if you serve each slice with some homemade vanilla ice cream.

As always,
Stay hungry my friends.

photo istockphoto