WINE & DINE

Welcome to Wine Cheese Scallops, where culinary adventure meets home cooking!

At Wine Cheese Scallops, we're passionate about bringing gourmet experiences right to your kitchen. Whether you're planning an elegant date night at home or looking for family-friendly meal ideas, our ORIGINAL, self developed recipes offer something for every occasion. From sophisticated dishes that impress to easy, comforting favorites, we've got you covered with step-by-step instructions and tips to make your cooking experience enjoyable and successful.

But that’s not all—join us as we explore the vibrant food scene of West Virginia and surrounding states. We travel far and wide, from high-end restaurants to hidden gems in dive bars and charming mom-and-pop diners, sharing honest reviews and discovering new flavors along the way. Whether you're a local or just passing through, our recommendations will guide you to the best dining spots in the area.

Dive into our blog for recipes that elevate your home dining and reviews that help you find your next favorite restaurant. Happy cooking and dining!

P.S. Don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter to stay updated on new recipes and dining adventures!

PUMPKIN GRITS WITH MAITAKE MUSHROOMS

Sometimes a dish feels like fall in a bowl, and this one is exactly that. Pumpkin Grits with Maitake Mushrooms combines the creamy comfort of Southern-style grits with the earthy elegance of sautéed mushrooms, finished with crispy sage and a hint of spice. It’s cozy, seasonal, and downright irresistible.

Our Top 4 Soup Recipes (So Far)

There’s something almost magical about a pot of soup simmering on the stove—its steam curling through the kitchen, its aromas weaving comfort into the home. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve come in from a chilly afternoon, or from errands in the rain, and felt an immediate lift in my spirits when I caught that first scent of garlic, onion, or herbs dancing through the air. A good soup does more than fill your belly: it feels like a hug, a reset, a moment of pause.

ITALIAN WEDDING SOUP

There’s nothing more comforting than a warm bowl of Italian Wedding Soup. Tender meatballs, fresh veggies, silky spinach, and a squeeze of lemon come together in a savory broth that feels like a hug in a bowl. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or simply for yourself, this recipe is a timeless classic with a bright, fresh twist.

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Wine Cheese Scallops is the food blog for everyday home cooks and passionate restaurant foodies alike.

Welcome to Wine Cheese Scallops—the flavor-packed playground where busy parents and curious foodies collide! We’re Tara, a paralegal by day, and Josh, the resident IT whiz; together with our three adventurous kids, we turn weeknight dinners and restaurant discoveries into unforgettable stories. Dive in for family-tested recipes, bold flavors, and insider bites from our favorite local spots. Grab a fork—let’s cook, taste, and explore together!

Start Strong with Flavor-Packed Appetizers

At Wine Cheese Scallops, we know first impressions matter—and that’s why our appetizers are anything but ordinary. From crowd-pleasing finger foods to elegant starters, these small bites are big on flavor and perfect for any gathering. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or planning a casual night in, these recipes are made to impress from the very first bite.

ZUCCHINI AND GOAT CHEESE TART

Sep 35 min read

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ROASTED ACORN SQUASH W/ MAPLE SYRUP

Oct 25 min read

Side Dishes That Steal the Show

The right side dish can turn a good meal into a great one. From crisp salads and buttery biscuits to savory slaws and cheesy casseroles, our sides are anything but afterthoughts. These recipes are designed to complement your main course—or maybe even outshine it.

Help Us Decide What to Cook Next!

Hey food lovers! We’re always excited to bring new and delicious recipes to our blog, and we’d love your input on what to cook next. Whether you’re craving a luxurious dish for a special occasion or a comforting meal for a family dinner, we want to hear from you!

Let us know your top pick, and we’ll feature it with a detailed recipe and stunning plating examples! Your feedback will help us create the meals you’re excited to try and share. Use our Contact Form or the Chat icon to submit your request! Don't forget to subscribe to our newsletter!

Sweet Endings Start Here!

We believe every great meal deserves a spectacular finish. Our dessert recipes range from comfort classics like homemade cinnamon rolls to indulgent showstoppers like molten chocolate lava cakes. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a dinner party, or just a Tuesday night treat, you’ll find something here to satisfy every sweet craving. Let’s bake something unforgettable.

BLUEBERRY MUFFINS

Slice of layered cake with cream frosting and pecans on top, set on a wooden board. Blurred green background creates a calm mood.

HUMMINGBIRD CAKE

CHERRY PIE CRISPS

Wine & Dine: From WV Gems to Travel Treasures

Join us as we explore the culinary landscape, one plate at a time. In Wine & Dine, we share honest, flavorful reviews from our visits to local West Virginia favorites and standout spots from our travels. Whether it’s a cozy small-town bistro or a buzzy new city restaurant, we’re tasting, sipping, and telling the story—so you know exactly where to go for your next great meal.