Chef's Blog, Chef's Notes Plus

Drink of the Summer: Frozen Aperol Spritz

If you watch the morning cable news shows, you have probably heard about ten million conversations surrounding The Song of the Summer. Inevitably, there are many songs of the summer, and while the concept is flawed, we like the sentiment. Because ultimately, if we’re talking about the song of the […]

Appetizers, Hors D’oeuvre, and Snacks, Side Dishes

Eggplant Caponata

Ingredients 1 eggplant (about 1 lb), peeled and cut into small dice 2 tablespoons kosher salt 1 red bell pepper, seeded and cut into small dice 3/4 cup minced onion 1 teaspoon minced garlic 1/4 cup olive oil 2 cups canned diced tomatoes 2 tablespoons tomato paste 2 tablespoons basil […]

Main Dishes

Eggplant Caponata Stuffed Shells

Makes 4 to 6 servings This vegan pasta dish is creamy comfort food at its very best. Make all of the components ahead of time, or even assemble the dish a few days before you’re ready to serve it for an ultra-convenient weeknight meal. Serve it alongside prepared marinara sauce, […]

Salads

Farro Caprese Salad

Makes 4 to 6 servings Farro is a nutty, chewy grain commonly used in Italian cuisine. Tossed with the classic components of a caprese salad, like creamy mozzarella cheese and sweet summer tomatoes, you will love it for school lunches, a take-along picnic dish, or a side for grilled chicken […]

Main Dishes

Fritto Misto di Pesce (Mixed Fried Fish)

Serves 4 to 6 Ingredients 1 lb squid, cleaned, tentacles and bodies separated 12 medium shrimp (20/25 count), peeled and deveined 1 lb any type of fish, cleaned and skinned 2 cups warm water 2 teaspoons sea salt, plus more for sprinkling 3/4 cup all-purpose flour, or as needed 2 […]

Free Recipes, Side Dishes

Giardiniera

Makes 4 pints Pickle Mixture Canning Process Chef’s Notes: To prepare jars for canning, read over your recipe to determine what size and how many jars are needed. Be sure each jar has a lid and the circular band that holds the lid in place, and that they fit properly. […]

Beverages and Cocktails

Grappa with Berries

Makes 6 servings This recipe can be made with any fruit that is in season. The recipe makes six portions, but you can make as much or as little as you like. Keep replenishing the fruit as you use it so that you’ll have a supply on hand whenever you […]

Main Dishes

Grilled Pizza

Makes 8 Servings Ingredients 2 1/2 teaspoons active dry yeast 2 cups warm water 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1 cup semolina flour, plus extra for dusting 1 tablespoon salt 1/4 cup olive oil 1 1/2 cups tomato sauce 2 cups grated mozzarella 1/4 cup sautéed diced onions 2 tablespoons […]