These flavorful little gems are easy to put together well in advance so you have extra time primping for your get-together. They go directly from the freezer to the oven and if you’re lucky enough (they’re irresistible and guests love to snatch them up), right to your entertaining table. They combine three of the most…
Category: Appetizers & Beverages
The British Afternoon Tea; Where Did it All Begin & What is Served?
There is no more quintessential British ritual than the ceremony and serving of Afternoon tea. It is believed that credit for the custom goes to Anna, the 7th Duchess of Bedford in the early 19th century. The usual habit of serving dinner between 8 and 9 pm left the Duchess hungry and with a ‘sinking…
Easter Ham, Pepperoni and Cheese Bread
My Mama always made this tasty bread for every religious holiday and if we begged, sometimes in between. Mom used to buy pounds of aged meats and cheeses, painstakingly cubing every bit. Then she would mix with beaten eggs, grated Parmesan and fill, what seemed like dozens, of loaves. I’ve converted her recipe into a…
Grandpa Louie’s Sicilian Stuffed Artichokes; Carciofo
Few things ignite the deep flames of the fondest memories of my childhood like spending moments with Grandpa Louie and Grandma Lena at my parent’s cottage by the lake. If my siblings and I were fortunate enough, we would experience one of these three, rare occurrences; a sample of a freshly plucked purple fig from…
Coffee o caffè? Making Sense of it All!
We all know what coffee is and how we normally prefer to drink it, but what about the other “caffe’” choices and items on the menu? With all the different types of coffee beans and beverages available at coffee shops today, it can be a bit perplexing when it comes to exploring other options. Rather…
The Art of Coffee: Learn to Become a Latte Barista
The “Art of Coffee” is unlike any that you’ve ever experienced! Impress your friends and families by producing these drinkable works of art right before their very eyes! Some are too stunning to consume, but as the New York Italians say “Fughettaboutit!” Beautiful latte art is a sign of a perfect espresso drink & a talented barista….
Cioccolato e Caramello Gelato Affogato
What a big name for such a simple decadent treat. Serve this as a dinner aperitif—one won’t spoil your appetite. As an after dinner treat in place of dessert. Or anytime you wish to experience the harmonious blend of coffee, cream and chocolate. Let your imagination run wild with the additions: Kahlua, chocolate fudge, sprinkles,…
Oooey Gooey “Cheese” Your Stairway to Heaven? Or Shall We Continue Following Zeppelin? Here’s a Wedge of Ancient Info
Ahhhhh, Cheese!! We pile it high on our favorite sandwiches. Mound it on our beloved pizzas. Stack it in and among egg dishes. But where did it come from? Here’s a brief history…Part 1 There are many Egyptian documents that swear to the presence of cheese. Specifically in Thebes, where the tomb of Ipy is…
Chocolate Stout or Gunness Float
This remarkable velvety brew will make you dream of the return of St. Patrick’s Day, everyday! Creamy, sweet, chocolaty, semi-bitter edged, frothy, buttery…heaven! In the past, I have always used Guinness, but ever since discovering the “chocolate stout,” I have never looked back. Having said the latter, “both” ales are marvelous—especially in this delectable frothy…
Once Upon a Spice 