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Cappuccino and Cornetto, Anyone? Discover the most loved Italian breakfast and why Italians cherish their Colazione so much The most important meal of the day deserves some recognition. In Italy, breakfast lovers of all flavors get to enjoy a delicious meal to kickstart their day. With some good company, this combination is a surefire predictor of a good day. What is the history of breakfast in Italy? Historically simple yet meaningful, breakfast culture in Italy has brought along quick, refined meals that revolve around coffee. Lighter breakfasts are usually preferred, and you can expect interactions in the morning near coffee bars. Without further ado, here are some of the most loved Italian breakfast foods! The two C’s: Cappuccino and Cornetto Found at most people’s favorite cafe in Italy, the combination of pastry and caffeine has never failed anyone. Cornettos originated from a traditional Italian pastry and are distinctly different from croissants—with a sweeter taste and with eggs, cornettos can be filled with various preserves and also can be made heartier through healthier flour alternatives. Bread and Jam A true classic, this combination honors simplicity and a childhood favorite. For poeple who like a bit of a bitter taste, orange marmalade is a great choice. For some sweeter jams, peach and apricot make great pairings with bread.  For children and adults alike, this is a sure favorite! Milk and Cereal A great probiotic source and with a satisfying crunch, milk and cereal is a simple but customizable breakfast for all. Milk alternatives and biscuits for cereal is also a great way to switch up the daily meal, and nutritious ingredients such as oat can be a great way to fuel up for the day. Yoghurt and Fruit Who doesn’t love fresh fruit and some yoghurt? With endless combinations you can try, toppings such as granola or honey are a great way to add texture and flavor to your meal. Add in some orange juice and you’ve got yourself a perfect meal to fill you up and get your vitamins in! Brioches For people looking for a more hearty breakfast, these sweet brioche buns can be filled with sweet flavors (jam, custard) or savory tastes (ham and cheese). The ability to make your breakfast what you want is a great way to enjoy a peaceful moment in the morning. We hope you enjoy your leisurely time in the morning! Time savored is time well spent.

For each pasta dish, there's a secret tool that will take your authentic Italian dinner to the next level. Here's a guide to help you learn how to use these tools There’s something unforgettable about the pasta you enjoyed on a warm Italian summer evening – the perfect texture, the rich flavor, the magic in every bite. While the quality of local ingredients and traditional cooking techniques play a big role, the tools used in Italian kitchens are equally essential for creating that authentic experience. From hand-rolled sfoglia to perfectly shaped orecchiette , the secret often lies in the tools themselves. To bring a taste of Italy into your kitchen, we’ve curated a list of the most authentic Italian pasta tools. Discover their unique purpose, their rich heritage, and why they’re the key to transforming your homemade pasta into something truly special. Italian Gnocchi Board The gnocchi board is a simple yet essential tool for making perfect homemade gnocchi. With its ridged surface, it helps shape the dough into traditional gnocchi while creating those signature grooves that hold onto sauces beautifully. Whether you’re making classic potato gnocchi, ricotta gnocchi, or experimenting with other variations, this little board ensures your gnocchi turn out both delicious and visually perfect. It’s a must-have for anyone who loves homemade Italian comfort food. Curious to see how it’s used? Check out this YouTube video for a quick demonstration . Stendipasta a rullo The wooden rolling pin with a double stainless steel fork is a must-have for anyone who loves making homemade pasta or pizza. It’s perfect for rolling out fresh pasta dough for lasagna, tagliatelle, or even a thin, crispy pizza base. Easy to use and versatile, it makes prepping your favorite recipes a breeze. Curious to see it in action? Here’s a YouTube video to check out. Mortar and Pestle The mortar and pestle is a timeless kitchen tool that’s perfect for grinding and blending ingredients the old-fashioned way. Whether you’re crushing fresh basil for homemade pesto, grinding spices for curry, or making a flavorful garlic and herb paste, this tool brings out the natural oils and aromas like no blender can. Its sturdy design makes it ideal for both soft and hard ingredients, giving your recipes a depth of flavor that’s hard to beat. Want to see it in action? Check out this YouTube video for some inspiration . Ravioli Cutter or Stamp The ravioli cutter or stamp is the perfect tool for shaping and sealing homemade ravioli with ease. It ensures the filling stays securely tucked inside while giving each piece that classic, crimped edge. Available in a variety of shapes and styles, it’s also a fun way to get creative in the kitchen, whether you’re making traditional square ravioli or experimenting with round, heart-shaped, or fluted designs. Simple to use and endlessly versatile, it’s a must-have for pasta lovers. Looking to try it out? Here’s a YouTube video that shows you exactly how it’s done . Rotella taglia ravioli The rotella taglia ravioli , or ravioli cutter wheel, is a versatile tool for creating perfectly shaped and sealed homemade ravioli. Its sharp, fluted edge effortlessly cuts through pasta dough, giving each raviolo a clean, decorative finish while keeping the filling neatly contained. Beyond ravioli, this little wheel can also be used for cutting pastry dough or adding creative edges to pies and tarts. It’s a simple yet essential tool for anyone who enjoys making fresh pasta at home. Want to see how it’s done? Check out this YouTube video for a quick look: link . Rotella tagliapasta The rotella tagliapasta , or pasta cutting wheel, is an essential tool for anyone making fresh pasta at home. Its sharp, rolling blade easily cuts through dough to create clean, precise edges, whether you’re shaping tagliatelle, pappardelle, or decorative pastry designs. Thanks to its versatility, it’s also perfect for trimming lasagna sheets or adding a creative touch to pie crusts. Simple to use and endlessly handy, it’s a must-have for homemade pasta enthusiasts. Curious to see it in action? Watch this YouTube video for some inspiratio. We hope these traditional tools help elevate your cooking experience! Authentic tools make for an authentic meal.

If you’re looking for a way to elevate your recipes for the holidays, Sicilian liqueurs are a great option. Sicilian liqueurs reflect the culture and agriculture of the island. Local fruits, herbs, and spices were used, eventually resulting in the modern-day versions of the liqueurs people know and love. What are popular Sicilian liqueurs? What are their distinctive flavors? Here are some popular Sicilian liqueurs: Limoncello : made of iconic Sicilian lemons , this sweet liqueur has an acidic, zesty kick to it.  Amaro Siciliano : comprised of herbs, citrus peels, and spices, Amaro Siciliano is bitter, spicy, and has caramelized notes.  Mandarinetto : true to its name, Sicilian mandarin oranges are incorporated into this liqueur. With a sweet and sunny flavor, you can expect a floral accent to this drink. Ficodindia Liqueur : with native prickly pear cactus fruit, this drink is tangy and sweet. Berry flavors are common in this liqueur. Pistacchino : as you might have guessed, this creamy and nutty liqueur showcases high-quality pistachios. The roasted nuts are combined with a vanilla flavor for a smooth finish. What are Sicilian liqueurs used for? How are they served? Sicilian liqueurs are versatile and can be used in multiple ways. A popular way to serve them are as digestifs to aid digestion. Served straight or over ice after meals, the liqueur should be served in a small glass. They can also be mixed into drinks for cocktails. Take the popular limoncello spritz: with a combination of limoncello, Prosecco, and soda water, this drink is an example of the ways that Sicilian liqueur can be used. They are also often used in marinades or sauces to add a distinctive flavor, or in desserts such as sponge cakes. Lastly, they are also sometimes added to tea or coffee. How do I pair Sicilian liqueurs with desserts? What are some popular pairings? Because of their versatility and unique flavors, these liqueurs are a great pairing with desserts and balance out sweet and tangy flavors perfectly. Here are some ways to elevate your next dessert with Sicilian liqueur. Limoncello Mixed in with the batter of sponge cakes, a bright citrus flavor will appear in your favorite dish. Replace the coffee soak of tiramisu with limoncello and water. Limoncello will intensify the lemon flavor of your lemon sorbet! Amaro Siciliano Adding Amaro Siciliano into your caramel sauce will add depth to any ice cream or dessert recipe! Chocolate flavors can be enhanced with this liqueur—add some to your next brownie mix! Mandarinetto Mandarinetto in your cheesecake batter will lead to a floral and creamy dessert. Ficodindia Liqueur Added to gelato, this unique prickly pear flavor has a chance to shine. Jelly dishes are popular with this liqueur: with just a combination of gelatin and sugar, this liqueur can transform into a crowd-pleaser. Pistacchino Added to the mascarpone layer of tiramisu, the subtle taste of pistachios will easily elevate your dessert. While these are just a few ideas, we hope that this list of flavors and dessert pairings inspires you to try something new!

One of the joys of pasta is its versatility— with different sauces and shapes, you can create something new every time. But when it comes to Ziti vs. Penne, which is the best choice? What is the difference between ziti and penne? What is the similarity between them? From far away, the two tubular pasta shapes may look similar. Look closer, though, and you’ll find a multitude of differences: while penne typically has angled ends and textured ridges, ziti has straight ends and a smoother exterior. Ziti also tends to be shorter and thicker than penne. Given their similar tube shape , both pastas are great for soaking up sauces in their nooks and crannies. Bite-sized, both give you a great opportunity to create something satisfying and delicious! What is ziti pasta typically used for? What sauces or styles go well with ziti? Ziti pasta is traditionally served as the first course at a wedding, which goes to show its hearty nature and popularity. Because it tends to be thicker, the most well-known dish is baked ziti: with marinara sauce and multiple cheeses, this recipe has earned the golden star of being considered comfort food. Ziti’s shape and size makes it the ideal pasta to hold onto the cheesy sauce and still easy to eat. Another great use of ziti is to pair it with meat or meat alternatives: whether you’re looking at ground beef, sausage, or meatballs, ziti carries these additions and makes every bite uniquely delicious. Because of its thicker nature, baked dishes and heavier sauces are a great pairing for ziti pasta.  What is penne pasta typically used for? What sauces or styles go well with penne? Penne is one of the most well-known pasta shapes, and for good reason. A popular recipe is penne alla vodka—with creamy tomato sauce and distinctive flavor, penne soaks up the sauce well. It’s also often used in cold pasta salads or lighter pasta dishes, creating great pairings with caprese. Penne holds up well when chilled, which makes it ever more versatile and a great idea for casual and elaborate dishes alike. While there is no rulebook, penne pasta is delicious in a variety of different situations, making it a great option for light and heavy sauces alike. Ultimately, what are the most important things to consider when picking a pasta shape? Considering the sauce you have in mind is a great starting point: both ziti and penne are tubular, making them great for sauces and additions that should be tasted in every bite. Other pasta shapes , such as spaghetti or angel hair, can have a completely different take on the same sauce. With this in mind, thinking about texture in each bite is another great way to decide between pasta shapes. Whether you want a lighter bite or something more satisfying, the size and length of each pasta shape can make a difference. If you’re dining with little ones, considering mess-free pasta shapes is also another option! (For something both fun and no-fuss: bowtie pasta is a great idea for kids.) Lastly, think about the preparation process: Will you be baking this dish? How long will it take to cook? Do you want to eat leftovers tomorrow? If so, will the pasta shape still be delicious in the morning? As always with pasta, you have a combination of creative direction and tradition—we can’t wait to hear about the delicious dishes you create!

A private dinner party offers an intimate and personalized experience, perfect for bringing people together in a cozy yet sophisticated setting Whether you're hosting close friends, family, or colleagues, careful planning is key to creating a memorable evening. To help ensure your event is a success, here are five essential tips for planning the perfect private dinner party. 1. Define the theme and guest list The first step in planning a private dinner party is to define your theme and guest list. The theme sets the tone for the evening and helps in making important decisions, such as menu choices, decorations, and attire. Whether you opt for a formal sit-down dinner, a casual family-style meal, or a themed gathering like a Mediterranean night, having a clear vision is crucial. The guest list should be curated based on the event's purpose. Consider the size of your dining space and aim for a number of guests that ensures comfort and intimacy. For smaller spaces, fewer guests will allow for more personal interactions, while a larger venue can accommodate a bigger group. Make sure your guest list consists of individuals who will contribute to a pleasant atmosphere, creating a harmonious blend of personalities. 2. Craft a thoughtful menu The centerpiece of any dinner party is the food , so carefully crafting your menu is essential. First, consider any dietary restrictions or preferences your guests may have. Offering vegetarian, gluten-free, or other alternative options shows consideration and ensures all attendees are able to enjoy the meal. Your menu should align with your theme. For example, a Mediterranean-inspired dinner could feature fresh seafood, olives, and seasonal vegetables, while a French-themed soirée might highlight dishes like coq au vin or ratatouille. Balance your courses by offering appetizers, a main dish, and dessert, and ensure the portions are manageable so that guests don't feel overwhelmed. Additionally, timing is key when it comes to serving each course. Plan ahead to ensure that everything is ready to be served promptly, leaving your guests relaxed and well-fed. 3. Set the atmosphere with elegant decor A private dinner party isn't just about great food—it's about creating an ambiance that enhances the experience . Pay attention to the decor and table setting, as these elements can elevate your event. Start by choosing a color palette that complements your theme, using neutral tones for a sophisticated feel or bolder hues for a more vibrant setting. Use fresh flowers or seasonal decorations as centerpieces, and add soft lighting through candles or string lights to create a warm, inviting glow. The table setting should also reflect the formality of the event . For a formal dinner, consider using fine china, polished silverware, and elegant glassware. For a more casual gathering, you can get creative with mix-and-match plates or rustic elements like wooden serving boards. 4. Plan the flow of the evening The success of a private dinner party often depends on the seamless flow of the evening. Start by organizing your timeline , from when guests should arrive to the serving of the final course. Aim to have a buffer period when guests arrive, allowing them to mingle and enjoy a welcome drink or small appetizer while you finish any last-minute preparations. Next, consider the timing between courses. You don’t want to rush your guests through the meal, but also avoid leaving too much time between courses, which can lead to lulls in conversation. Ensure that drinks are replenished throughout the evening and that the atmosphere remains relaxed. 5. Create a personalized touch One of the most significant advantages of hosting a private dinner party is the opportunity to add personal touches that reflect your style and the preferences of your guests. Handwritten place cards, personalized menus, or even small party favors can make your guests feel special and add to the evening's charm . You can also incorporate interactive elements like a wine pairing or a brief introduction to each course, offering background on the ingredients or inspiration behind the dishes. These small details contribute to making the dinner party unique and memorable for your guests. SPECIAL HOLIDAY PROMO!  Get 10% OFF your Private Holiday Dinner when you book before October 20, 2024

Three facts: a) It’s peach season. b) You’re hungry. c) It’s summer. What better way to use these facts than to make a quick and easy peach bread recipe? What is the power of peaches? Besides their taste, peaches also have lots of benefits. Aside from being nutrient-rich and loaded with antioxidants, they are also great for digestion. And in hot weather, who doesn’t crave a delicious peach? This is a creative way to utilize all those peaches that don’t get eaten right away. Whether you want an easy breakfast, a midday snack, or a great pairing with ice cream, this peace bread recipe is sure to wow you. What kind of peaches are best for peach bread? Choosing a peach that is firm but ripe and has the flavor you want can be difficult–which is why we have a small list for you. For your next trip to the grocery store: Freestone peaches: these pits are easy to remove, and these peaches are typically sweet. Yellow peaches: for a balanced sweet-tart flavor. White peaches: sweet and juicy! Ensure that your peaches are ripe but not too soft for great texture in your baking adventure! What is the quick and easy peach bread recipe? Minimal dishes, minimal effort, maximum taste! Here is a quick and easy peach bread recipe: Ingredients: 1½ cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking powder ½ teaspoon baking soda ¼ teaspoon salt ½ cup softened butter (unsalted) 1 cup granulated sugar 2 large eggs 1 teaspoon vanilla extract ½ cup plain Greek yogurt 1 cup diced peaches ½ teaspoon cinnamon For some optional add-ins: consider chopped nuts, or even some granola topping to add an extra crunch! Recipe: Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 degrees Celsius. Mix together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix together the butter and sugar. Add the eggs one at a time. Mix in the vanilla extract and Greek yogurt. Mix the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients gradually. Fold in your peaches! Pour the batter into a floured loaf pan. Sprinkle with cinnamon. Bake for 50-60 minutes–time may vary, so check that a toothpick comes out clean! Cool for 10 minutes, then enjoy! How can I enjoy my peach bread? For breakfast: Toast with some butter. Feel free to enjoy some fresh peaches or fruits too! An afternoon pick-me-up: Pair together this sweet treat with some coffee, tea, or other beverage.  For dessert: Whipped cream or some vanilla bean ice cream will never fail you! By the sound of it, you may have to make a few more servings of this delicious peach bread. Here’s to making the most out of summer fruits!

I n the thick of summer, we know that it’s tomato season! But this doesn’t mean the fun has to end with the season. Read on to find out how to preserve and use delicious tomatoes for months with our canning tomatoes guide. What are the pros of canned tomatoes? Canned goods last longer than fresh produce–meaning that you won’t have to worry about them spoiling in the fridge. With busy schedules and a potential surplus of ripe tomatoes , this is a great way to get delicious flavors that last for long periods of time.  That being said, canned tomatoes are also a great way to get nutrients in. This in combination with its sweet flavor profile makes for an irresistible base for soup, pasta, and salsa. And while you can buy canned tomatoes–making them ensures quality and freshness. Plus, who doesn’t love a little DIY? How do I can tomatoes? Note: you’ll need about 2½ to 3½ pounds of tomatoes per quart jar. Equipment you’ll need Mason jars, lids, and bands Canning rack Steps Bring a large pot of water to a simmer. Place the jars in the pot until ready to fill. Boil another pot of water. Cut an X on the bottom of each tomato. Put the tomatoes in boiling water for 30-60 seconds until the skins start to split. Peel off the skins (which will be made easier by the cut X’s). Optionally, you can chop the tomatoes and remove the seeds. ( Why? peeling the tomatoes will make sure they last longer over time) Add two tablespoons of lemon juice per quart jar to acidify the tomatoes. ( Why? this ensures safe canning.) Pack the tomatoes into the hot jars, using a funnel if needed (juices and all!). Optionally, you can add salt. Then, add boiling water. ( Note: don't underfill or overfill your jars! It's important to seal them properly.) Place the lids on the jars and screw on the bands. ( Tip: try to make sure your jars are dry before tightening.) Place the jars on the canning rack in a pot of boiling water. The jars should be fully submerged. To process the jars, leave the canned tomatoes in the boiling water for around 35-45 minutes. Remove the jars from the pot (careful, it’s hot!) and place them on a towel to cool. After 24 hours, check the seals to make sure that the tomatoes are canned correctly. You'll know that the seals are working properly like any other canned good: check the center of each lid! Store in a cool dark place, and enjoy! While this might take a few hours of dedication, canning tomatoes only takes a few ingredients that you already have in your kitchen. Reap the benefits of your summer tomatoes now! Let us know how it goes (now, and months into the future).

If you’re drawn in by the allure of Italy, the Italy Coffee Table Book Collection from Assouline is just what your home is missing. The collection immerses you in the country’s timeless elegance and diverse landscapes, transporting you from your living room. Each book in this collection presents a different facet of Italian culture, from the serene charm of Lake Como to the vibrant life of the Amalfi Coast. Highlights from the Collection Capri Dolce Vita : This book captures the enchanting beauty of Capri, with its stunning seascapes and luxurious slow-paced lifestyle. It’s a celebration of the island’s history, fashion, and natural beauty. Amalfi Coast : Learn about the dramatic cliffs and crystal clear waters of the Amalfi Coast. This book features the region’s picturesque towns, such as Positano and Ravello, offering a glimpse into their unique charm and history. Tuscany Marvel : While currently out of stock due to its high demand, this volume takes readers through the rolling hills and historic vineyards of Tuscany, showcasing its rich cultural heritage and unbeatable landscapes. Lake Como Idyll : Here, you’ll find the magic of Lake Como’s elegant villas and serene waters. This book provides an intimate look at one of Italy’s most beloved destinations. Sicily Honor : Journey through Sicily’s rich history and vibrant culture. This book features stunning photography and engaging narratives that highlight the island’s unique character. Italian Chic : Written by Daria Reina and Andrea Ferolla, this book explores the hidden gems of Italy, from the Sassi cave dwellings of Matera to the red-orange walls of Emilia-Romagna. It offers an intimate portrait of Italy, beyond the well-trodden tourist paths, showcasing the essence of Italian style and craftsmanship. Why You’ll Love These Books Visual Appeal : Each book is filled with high-quality photographs and illustrations that bring Italy’s landscapes, architecture, and culture to life. They’ll brighten up any room! Cultural Insights : The books offer more than just pretty pictures. They provide deep insights into Italy’s history, art, and lifestyle, making them both informative and visually appealing. Luxurious Presentation : Assouline is renowned for its luxurious bookmaking, with each volume featuring hand-bound covers and thick, high-quality pages. These books are designed to be as much a decorative piece as a source of information. Perfect for Every Enthusiast Whether you’re a seasoned traveler, an art lover, or someone who simply appreciates beautiful books, the Italy Coffee Table Book Collection from Assouline is a perfect accessory for your home. Each book is a chance to learn more about the incredible landscapes and rich cultural history of Italy, offering a visual and informative chance to see one of the world’s most beautiful countries. Explore the full collection here !

The world of kitchen tools can be a chaotic one. There are different sizes, types, and materials–where can one begin? Luckily for you, we have a perfect starting point: wooden spoon kitchen tools. Read on to find out more about what this entails. Why wood? Wooden kitchen tools are great to have for a multitude of reasons, but we’ll give you the important ones. For one, they are fairly inexpensive. Combine this with their durability and you’ll have one wooden spoon in your kitchen for decades! They also can be used in heat unlike some metal utensils you have to be careful with while cooking, and are sure to keep the rest of your pots and dishes pristine–with no scratches. And, who doesn’t love a bit of rustic charm? What are the different wooden spoons I might need? While you might have a generic picture of a wooden spoon, it’s worth noting that each of them can have a different purpose. To maximize your wooden spoon usage, we’ve separated them into a few different categories with their characteristics: Classic wooden spoon: as the prototype you probably have in mind, this is great for stirring and is versatile for most other tasks. Slotted wooden spoon : the slots allow liquids to drain. Wooden spatula : does exactly what a spatula would do! Corner spoon : with one edge angled to reach the nooks and crannies of your pots and pans, this spoon is great for scraping. Wooden ladle : easy scooping for your soup and sauce needs . Long-handled spoon : you guessed it–a long handle to reach into long containers! Wooden tasting spoon : a smaller spoon for sampling your food. Given this list, you can likely prioritize what you need most and look for those characteristics of a wooden spoon. In general, flatter spoons are better for scraping, while rounded spoons are better for stirring. Since the wood material may also vary from spoon to spoon, your best bet is to check which wood is most durable! Speaking of which… What kind of wood is durable for cooking? While some wooden utensils may require some extra steps to preserve their state (such as oiling), utensils made for this wood are ready to go the second they hit your kitchen. Do you know what that means? Less work for you, more cooking to do! Cherrywood Teak Olivewood Some other popular wooden utensils are made of maple, beech or walnut.  Why might I need to oil my wooden spoons? Oiling wooden spoons from time to time can prevent them from drying out and extend their lifespan. This also makes them less susceptible to absorbing food stains and odors, which provides a safe surface to re-use for multiple dishes. Mineral oil is a popular oil that people use to oil their wooden spoons. Typically, monthly oiling is considered to be good practice. We can’t wait to hear what wooden spoon works best for you. Happy cooking!

Join us for another culinary adventure with IMPASTIAMO! Today, we're adding a twist to the classic favorite: the Perfectly Tangy Deviled Egg Pasta Salad. This recipe combines the creamy, tangy goodness of deviled eggs with the satisfying texture of perfectly cooked pasta, making it an ideal dish for gatherings, picnics, or family dinners. Let’s begin and make a dish that’ll keep people coming back for seconds and thirds! Ingredients Pasta : 12 ounces of your favorite pasta (macaroni, shells, or rotini work well) Eggs : 6 large eggs Mayonnaise : 1 cup Mustard : 2 tablespoons (yellow, Dijon, or spicy brown) Vinegar or Pickle Juice : 1 tablespoon (for that perfect tang) Spices : Paprika: 1 teaspoon Salt: 1 teaspoon Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon Optional Add-ins : Celery: 1/2 cup, finely chopped Onion: 1/4 cup, finely chopped Pickles: 1/4 cup, finely chopped Preparing the Ingredients Place the eggs in a saucepan and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, remove from heat, cover, and let sit for 10-12 minutes. Drain and cool the eggs under cold running water, then peel the shells and chop them. Cook the Pasta Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to cool. Chop the Optional Add-ins Finely chop the celery, onion, and pickles if you decide to use them. Making the Dressing In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, mustard, and vinegar or pickle juice. Add the paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until smooth and creamy. Adjust the seasoning to taste, balancing the tanginess as desired. Assembling the Salad In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta and chopped eggs. Add the dressing to the pasta and egg mixture. Gently fold the dressing into the pasta until everything is evenly coated. Add in the optional ingredients (celery, onion, pickles) and mix thoroughly. Ensure the salad has the right consistency, adding more mayonnaise or mustard if needed to achieve your desired creaminess and flavor balance. Presentation and Serving Garnish : Sprinkle the top with a little extra paprika for color and flavor. Add fresh herbs like dill or chives if desired. Serving Suggestions : Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Tips to Customize Mustard Variations : Experiment with different types of mustard to change the flavor profile. Ingredient Adjustments : Feel free to add or omit ingredients based on your likings or what you have around the house! Tanginess and Creaminess : Adjust the amount of vinegar/pickle juice and mayonnaise to suit your taste. Add more for a tangier or creamier salad. There you have it – the Perfectly Tangy Deviled Egg Pasta Salad! This versatile dish is a crowd-pleaser at any event, showcasing a unique take on the traditional pasta salad. Try it out, share your results, and let us know how you enjoyed it. Enjoy making this delightful and tangy pasta salad that will have people asking you to share the recipe!

We've got our eye on the Tiger this Chinese New Year. So dust off your tiger-print jacket and throw on your apron–it's time to celebrate! This holiday is filled with rich culture and tradition that centers around the hope for good fortune and prosperity, and will be celebrated by almost two billion people across the world. If you’re joining the crowds of people ushering in the Lunar New Year, here are some of the luckiest foods to make for your celebrations! 🥠🥠🥠 But First, What is the Chinese New Year? Every year, the Lunar New Year date changes due to one thing: the lunar cycle. Unlike the commonly used Gregorian calendar, which does not track the phases of the moon and sun, the lunisolar calendar lets you know when the phases change. While the exact date of the holiday varies every year, it will always fall between Jan. 20 and Feb. 21 on the Gregorian calendar. The Lunar New Year is annually linked to one of 12 zodiac animals–each possessing their own character traits. In keeping with a 12-year cycle, 2022 will be the Year of the Tiger. So, how should you celebrate? Well, fire up the stove because these easy recipes are sure to bring you lots of luck (and full bellies) this Chinese New Year! Lucky Foods to Make This Chinese New Year Red Foods During the Lunar New Year, red is the most prominent color used; it is used in decoration, food, and most importantly, the red envelopes filled with money given to loved ones. In Chinese culture, red is associated with good luck, happiness, and joy. This means you'll see red foods like crab, peking duck, shrimp, barbecue pork, and red fruit at any traditional Lunar New Year celebration! Rice Dishes During the Chinese New Year, the stickiness of steamed jasmine rice symbolizes the bond of family. One of the luckiest Chinese New Year foods is an Eight Treasures Rice Pudding–a delicious rice dessert that uses sticky rice and lots of toppings like green raisins, pine nuts, black raisins, dried dates, dried wolfberries, dried apricots, and red maraschino cherries (for good luck)! Traditional Shiitake Dumplings Dumplings (饺子 Jiǎozi /jyaoww-dzrr/) have been considered a lucky food for the Lunar New Year for more than 1,800 years, and is traditionally eaten on Chinese New Year's Eve. In fact, tradition says that the number of dumplings you eat during the new year indicates how much money you will make that year. That’s a good enough reason to eat an extra dumpling (or three). And what’s more lucky than finding an easy dumpling recipe? For all the busy chefs out there, this one's for you! You'll love the savory flavor of these crispy dumplings, and the simple-yet-delicious filling is made with shiitake mushrooms, napa cabbage, ginger and garlic for a classic combination of flavors. Dumplings are traditionally arranged in straight lines instead of circles, because circles of dumplings signify that one's life will go round and round without going anywhere. If the secret to a prosperous life is more dumplings…sign us up! Canton Spring Rolls Canton Spring Rolls (春卷 Chūnjuǎn /chwnn- jwen/) are fried cylinder-shaped rolls filled with meat, vegetables, or sweets. Spring rolls are usually eaten during the Spring Festival, which is where they get their name. During Chinese New Year, you’ll find that most celebrations include a plate of spring rolls. Spring rolls are an especially lucky food to eat during the Chinese New Year because they look like gold bars–a wish for prosperity and wealth. Kiwi Yficin ‘rang (Dragon-eyes Sweet Soup) Chinese New Year is the perfect time of year to reach for the lusciously sweet Longan Dragon Eye Fruit 龍眼, which originates from southern China. This small fruit hides a pretty big treasure inside; a translucent, soft, white flesh that is unbelievably sweet. This fruit gets its name (you guessed it) by the milky appearance of this fruit complete with a dark seed in the middle. Despite the strange name, this soup might become your new favorite Chinese New Year food. Here are some additional articles if you’re interested in learning more about the Lunar New Year: Chinese New Year Celebrations and Activities (2022): Day-by-Day Guide Rituals and Customs to Celebrate Chinese New Year Happy Chinese New Year!

Call us crazy, but we’re pretty sure cooking dinner can be fun — and yes, even on busy weeknights (gasp!). Continue reading to find out how to make cooking dinner fun again: Have People Over “The more the merrier” really works like a charm when you’re trying to make dinner. When you have guests over, dinner becomes more of an event, not just another chore to check off your list. They don’t even have to help you cook–sometimes the company is just nice. Open a bottle of your favorite wine, get the snacks out (but not too many) and get cooking. Accept Clean-up Help Speaking of friends and family, having a bunch of extra help cleaning up your kitchen can make cooking dinner way more fun. If someone offers to help you, let them! Cleanup is faster when everyone chips in, and it’s way more fun, too. Make a Dinnertime Playlist You invited all the perfect people, you planned a delicious menu and you set the prettiest table ever. So what's left? A little music, of course! Music makes everything better. Next time you’re cooking dinner, make it a little more fun by adding music to your recipe. Try something like our Italy for the Evening playlist on Spotify . Take a Cooking Class Are you tired of your dinnertime go-to recipes? Maybe it’s time to mix it up. When you take a cooking class, you’re able to learn about different cultures from local chefs, improve your cooking skills, and add new recipes to your list of favorite dinners. Check out our list of upcoming online cooking classes here to step up your kitchen game! Step Outside Your Comfort Zone You want to be nice and satisfied after dinner, but you don’t want to be bored–right? By mixing it up and trying new recipes, your taste buds and your belly will be satisfied, and you’ll have learned a little something along the way. Next time you’re thinking about cooking dinner, try a recipe you’ve never made, like Traditional Shiitake Dumplings and Spinach with Pine Nuts and Raisins, or Bucatini Cacio & Pepe.