Appetizers, Hors D’oeuvre, and Snacks

Fried Calamari

Makes 6 small-bite servings Any place where squid swim you will find a different version of fried calamari. Be sure to rinse and dry the squid thoroughly before seasoning it. You can use both the tubes and the tentacles, but you may want to fry them separately. Sprinkle with sea […]

Pantry

Fried Shallots

Makes about 1 cup (enough for 6 garnish servings) These crispy shallots are a great-looking and flavorful garnish, adding a crispy finishing touch to soups, salads, stews, fried eggs, grilled fish…there is no end to the list of uses! If you don’t have a thermometer, you can test the temperature […]

Chef's Notes Plus

From the Garden: Basil Vinaigrette

I absolutely cannot keep a plant alive. Not even the easy ones, like aloe, even though I really try. The only plant that survives my path of destruction is basil, which is really a yearly tale of resilience. Now it’s mid-August, and for those of us who don’t know how […]

Beverages and Cocktails

Frozen Aperol Spritz

Makes 8 to 10 servings Come summertime, we think any cocktail can be made better by freezing, and the Aperol Spritz is no exception. Though it is perfect just the way it is, experiment with this recipe to make it just right for you! Add fruit juice, berries, or a […]

Beverages and Cocktails

Fruit Cake Highball

Makes 1 cocktail This cider cocktail is inspired by the famous (or infamous) holiday fruit cake, and it is a fun seasonal drink for fruit cake lovers and skeptics alike. Drawing on the essence of the cake–fruit, spice, and dark spirits–this drink is easily customizable using your favorite flavors, like […]