TIP OF THE DAY: Make Spanakopita, Greek Spinach Pie

One way to get people to eat more spinach is to serve spanakopita, the delicious Greek feta-and-spinach pastry in flaky phyllo (also spelled fillo or filo) dough. A good filling comprises not just spinach and crumbled feta cheese, but leeks, dill and parsley. It’s the leeks and lots of fresh dill and parsley, plus nutmeg,…
Continue reading “TIP OF THE DAY: Make Spanakopita, Greek Spinach Pie”

FOOD FUN: Deconstructed Caprese Salad

One of a foodie’s favorite salads is the Caprese, a delicious combination of tomato, basil and mozzarella that was “discovered” in Italy in the 1950s (the history of Caprese salad). Tasty basil and mozzarella are available year-round, but luscious summer tomatoes are required to make this simple combination soar. Until the crop comes in, look…
Continue reading “FOOD FUN: Deconstructed Caprese Salad”

Giardiniera, A Tangy & Versatile Pickled Vegetable Condiment

Giardiniera (jar-dih-NYAIR-uh) is an Italian word that means “from the garden.” In Italy, giardiniera has long been a way to preserve seasonal vegetables in vinegar for use during the winter. Giardiniera is also called “sotto aceti,” which means “under vinegar,” a common term for pickled foods. It is often made with carrots, cauliflower, celery, onions…
Continue reading “Giardiniera, A Tangy & Versatile Pickled Vegetable Condiment”

TIP OF THE DAY: Breakfast Pizza

Still pondering what to make for Mother’s Day breakfast? Perhaps this is the year to skip the bagels and lox, pancakes, quiche and waffles and opt instead for a glamorous breakfast pizza. Just plan ahead and make the dough one day in advance; it needs to be refrigerated overnight (it can be made up to…
Continue reading “TIP OF THE DAY: Breakfast Pizza”

TIP OF THE DAY: Make Dobladas

Today is National Empanada Day, and were celebrating with dobladas: folded, stuffed tortillas from Guatemala (the name means “folded”*) that can also be made in the form of a classic empanada. They can be served as an appetizer (cut into wedges), lunch, light supper or snack. Like tortillas, dobladas are made from nixtamalized masa (maize…
Continue reading “TIP OF THE DAY: Make Dobladas”