Appetizers, Hors D’oeuvre, and Snacks

Palmier with Prosciutto

Makes 36 pieces This is a savory variation of a classic French pastry made of puff pastry sprinkled with granulated sugar. The name palmier reflects the palm-leaf shape of the pastry. These palmiers are lined with prosciutto, and a dusting of Parmesan cheese replaces the sugar. Ingredients 1 sheet prepared […]

Appetizers, Hors D’oeuvre, and Snacks, Cookies

Parmesan Biscotti

Makes 40 biscotti Makes 40 biscotti When we think of “biscotti,” we usually think about little biscuits or cookies, sweet and studded with fruit or nuts. But the name actually refers to the method in which they are baked—twice—so that they can be stored for long periods of time at […]

Chef's Notes Plus

Party-Ready Crudités

Vegetable appetizers are a perfect way to start a meal. They run the gamut from simple dips and spreads like guacamole, made from silken smooth avocados, to complex dishes that are sophisticated enough to feature at the most elegant dinner. One of the most popular vegetable appetizers, and one that […]

Desserts

Peanut Brittle

Makes 1 thin sheet Brittle is some of the easiest candy to make, and the pay-off is unbeatable! This basic version uses peanuts, but you can substitute any nuts, especially roughly chopped almonds, cashews, or macadamia nuts, or even sesame seeds, pepitas, or oats. Add smoked sea salt or cocoa […]

Desserts

Peanut Butter Nougat

Makes one 9 by 13-inch slab All of the goodness of peanut butter in a light nougat—nothing could be better, except maybe adding some chocolate. This nougat pairs well with both dark and milk chocolate. The texture of the nougat will improve a day or two after it is made. […]

Cookies, Free Recipes

Pecan Diamonds

The Iconic Pecan Diamond Are they a cookie? A dessert? A bite-size pecan pie? Craig Claiborne of The New York Times called them the “sweet hallmark” of CIA, and they are. Pecan Diamonds have been a CIA tradition for nearly six decades. They were offered to guests with coffee at […]

Desserts, Family Fun

Peppermint Bark

Makes one 10×15-inch sheet Ingredients 8 ounces (1/2 cups) candy canes (crushed) 1/8 teaspoon peppermint oil 8 ounces (3/4 cup) dark chocolate, tempered, or dark chocolate candy melts, melted 8 ounces (3/4 cup) white chocolate, tempered, or white chocolate candy melts, melted Directions Line a 10×15–inch sheet pan with parchment […]

Main Dishes

Peppery Beef Stew with Butternut Squash

Makes 6 to 8 servings This flavorful beef stew comes from Tuscany, where it’s ideal with the region’s famed red wines. Guanciale is cured pork jowl, which you can find in some Italian specialty markets. Pancetta makes an acceptable substitute. Ingredients 4 oz guanciale or pancetta 8 oz cipollini or […]