Castell de Raimat: Albariño (White)
This white wine is unbeatable. If you’re looking for an alternative to pedestrian Chardonnay, this white wine will make you want to sing from the rooftops! Albariño is dry, with notes of melon and citrus like grapefruit. Very aromatic, Albariño has a light mineral edge and has good acidity, making it perfect for a variety of summer favorites! Spain Price: ~$11.99 Pairing Suggestions Fish, especially cod, other white fish,…
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Citrus Peppercorn Smoked Salmon
How beautiful is this smoked salmon dish? It makes my mouth water! I must be honest; I used to hate smoked salmon! But this preparation changed my opinion forever. Why? How could this be? The citrusy sweetness of segmented naval oranges with the white membrane, the crunch of freshly shaved cucumber, the bursts of heat from peppercorns, the tender saltiness of good-quality smoked salmon…all topped with extra virgin olive oil…
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Authentic Italian Tuna and White Bean Salad
After a few trips to Italy, I DESPERATELY tried to make this beautiful tuna white bean salad that I had at an oceanside café. A few failed attempts later (of overcomplicating things!), I succeeded in recreating this fabulous Italian dish! Simple, clean, lemony, and ever-so summery: crisp Bibb lettuce, tender white beans, chunks of good-quality tuna, and the sharpness of fennel and onion. It’s a “don’t miss” summer dish of…
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Sunday “Family” Dinners
Something happens when people sit around a table and eat together. I’m really not sure what it is, or how to explain it. There’s that innate connection between food and people. Not just a “oh yes, everyone has to eat” type of connection. But one that makes a meal shared with family and friends so much more enjoyable than eating alone. I grew up in a family where Sunday…
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Summer Memories & Flowers: Hydrangea Centerpiece Demo
The summer months remind me of childhood…walking in the house with fresh cut flowers from the yard that my mom would pick to “dress up” the family table. Hydrangeas were always one of my mom’s favorite flowers: true blue, lightly scented, and the perfect base for a summer centerpiece. A simply hydrangea bouquet, with the addition of some wild flowers, flowers from your garden, or flowers from your local grocery…
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Blackberry Mint Julep
This blackberry mint julep is a “berry” refreshing cocktail to keep your summer cool (LOL please laugh). Tart, fresh blackberries and a splash of club soda, mixed with a dash of maple syrup, brings out the rich caramel and vanilla notes of bourbon. Add a few sprigs of aromatic mint for an extra summery flare! Use the flavors of summer to cool off a hot summer night with family and…
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Summer Rigatoni: Cherry Tomato, Fresh Mozzarella, Pancetta & Sweet Corn
There’s nothing more soulful than a bowl of al dente pasta. Filled with seasonal ingredients, this rigatoni dish plays off a classic caprese preparation – tomato, fresh mozzarella and basil – with a twist. Adding bits of salty pancetta and sweet corn from the cob bring farm fresh ingredients, and family, rushing to the dinner table. When [not] in Rome, eat like you’re in Rome! The Ingredients 1 lb.…
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