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  • How to Plan a Private Dinner Party: 5 Essential Tips for Success

    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

  • Quick and Easy Peach Bread Recipe

    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!

  • A Beginner's Guide to Canning Tomatoes

    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).

  • Italy Coffee Table Books: a Visual Journey Through Italian Beauty

    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 !

  • Must-Have Wooden Spoon Kitchen Tools

    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!

  • The Perfectly Tangy Deviled Egg Pasta Salad Recipe

    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!

  • Lucky Foods to Make This Chinese New Year

    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!

  • 5 Ways to Make Cooking Dinner More Fun

    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.

  • 4 Ways to Celebrate National Margarita Day

    You can (and should) celebrate National Margarita Day everyday, but especially today. If you’re reading this today (02/22/2022)... HEY! If you’ve found this page after, well, you're in for a treat. Below are some of the best ways to celebrate National Margarita Day–from different flavored salt rims to out-of-the-box margarita garnishes. Cheers! Get Creative with the Rim Sure, a nice salty rim is ooooooooh-so good with your ice cold margarita. But have you ever tried an alternative flavor on your salted rim? Here are some ideas to get your creative juices flowing: Chili Lime Salt Rim: 1 tsp fine sugar, 1 tsp chile powder, 1 tbsp kosher salt, and lime slices for garnish. Citrus Zest Salt Rim: 1 tbsp lime zest (from 1 large lime), 1 tbsp orange zest (from 1 medium orange), 1/4 c kosher salt 1/4 c coarse sea salt, and 1/4 cup sugar (optional). Smoky Spicy Margarita Salt Rim: 1 tsp smoky salt, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp chili powder (more if you want a super spicy margarita), and lime slices for garnish. Think Outside the Rim We can all appreciate a nice juicy lime wedge adorning the rim of our margarita. But what about a strawberry or a piece of watermelon alongside it? Here are some outside-the-box margarita garnishes that will take your National Margarita Day to the next level: Whole strawberries Kiwi slices Peach wedges Rosemary, Basil or Mint Orange slices Pair Your Margs with Tacos What’s a shot of tequila without a tasty taco? This dynamic duo is sure to steal the show, and keep your guests partying long into the night. Try one of these taco recipes: Tacos Al Pastor These tacos al pastor from Delish.com are 100% worth the somewhat tedious cooking process… Cheesy Ground Beef Tacos Another favorite taco recipe from Delish.com, you'll want to eat this filling with or without the taco shells. Vegan Avocado Sweet Potato Tacos We LOVE these tacos, and our vegan friends do, too! Black beans and chili-spiced roasted sweet potatoes make them nice and hearty, and the creamy avocado sauce fills them with a zesty finishing touch. Vegan “Fish” Tacos with Avocado Slaw A vegetarian riff on a classic fish taco, these tacos feature crispy, hearts of palm and a bright avocado slaw. Don’t Forget to Make One of Our Favorite Marg Recipes No National Margarita Day celebration would be complete without a margarita (or two), so grab your tequila, mezcal or non-alcoholic substitute, and get mixing! Here are some of our favorite Margarita recipes: Classic Jalisco Margarita Paying homage to the beautiful city of Jalisco, MX, this classic margarita will hit all the perfect notes. Mezcal Margarita Have you ever had a mezcal marg? If not, you're missing out. Mezcal, tequila's lesser-known cousin, is the key ingredient in this Margarita–imparting this cocktail with a sweet smokiness that tempers the tart citrusy elements of a traditional marg. While it’s not quite as easy to down as the original, this version is every bit as sippable as for those looking to venture out beyond the world of blancos, reposados, and añejos. Chocolate-Cherry Margarita Don’t worry, this isn’t another choco-tini. It’s a classic margarita muddled with brandied cherries and rimmed with cocoa sugar. You can thank us later… Spicy Mango Margarita Most marg-lovers seem to love a little heat in their glass, and this spicy mango recipe brings the perfect amount of it. Spiced Pecan Margarita Did you know that Margaritas aren’t just for hot summer days? This out-of-the-box, slightly-spiced margarita calls for a homemade pecan and tea orgeat. Patrón Reposado Tequila, with its own vanilla and honey notes, pairs wonderfully with all those nutty, cozy flavors. If it’s cold where you are, one glass of this (and thinking warm thoughts) will heat you right up. Margarita Mocktail Opting out of the alcohol this #NationalMargaritaDay? You’re in luck! This Margarita Mocktail tastes even better than the boozy original.

  • Fun Pride Recipes to Enjoy All Year Round

    Around here, Pride Month means Pride FOOD! 🫶 In celebration of Pride month, we're sharing a few of our favorite Pride recipes that you can enjoy all year long! Since food is our love language, this Pride Month we wanted to highlight the most creative rainbow recipes created by amazing food bloggers around the world. From rainbow cookies to rainbow pizza, you’ll be able to literally taste the rainbow all year long. 🏳️‍🌈 Eat-the-Rainbow Chopped Salad with Basil and Mozzarella Who says pride food HAS to be unhealthy? We're all about a well-balanced diet, so let's start with a salad–but not just any salad. This fresh and colorful rainbow salad has all of the delicious flavors you love about the classic caprese salad, but with even more colorful veggies! Before hitting the town this pride month, make sure to fill up on this healthy side. Rainbow Power Bowl with Salmon and Sesame Dressing This rainbow salad power bowl pretty much sums up our nutrition approach: eat real food and eat as many colors as possible! Plus, we like to eat with our eyes, so this rainbow bowl is looking especially good right about now. Not many recipes scream PRIDE quite like this one! April Anderson’s Rainbow Cake Made by April Anderson, co-owner of Good Cakes and Bakes, this cake will make all your pride dreams come true. If you make this cake, we would love for you to look up a brief history of the rainbow flag (maybe while the cake is baking). It speaks not only of pride for our community, but it also relays a story of hope, visibility, and unity. Rainbow Ravioli Remember those bowls of orange wagon wheels or green linguine you used to eat as a kid? Crumb Blog’s rainbow ravioli is just like that—but even more fun. This pride recipe relies on savory ingredients like tomato paste, pumpkin puree, saffron, pureed broccoli, and pureed beets to punch up her pasta dough, and then fills it with a creamy mix of thyme-scented ricotta and Parmesan. Drooling yet? Celebrate this pride month with a bowlful of this ravioli–you can thank us later... Rainbow Pizza This clean rainbow pizza is actually insanely easy, and full of healthy ingredients instead of food coloring! Gimme Delicious tops her cauliflower-crust pie with colorful red and orange cherry tomatoes, sweet yellow corn kernels, chopped green bell peppers, broccoli florets that—in a way—look blue, and chopped red onion. How's that for healthy? No need to save this one for your pride weekend splurge. Homemade Rainbow Bagels As delicious as they are colorful, these easy rainbow bagels are the perfect handheld food for Pride month! Talk about ba(e)g(oa)ls. Pichet Ong’s Tropical Fruit Trifle This recipe is part of our The Kitchn's Pride Bakeshop package, featuring some queer bakers and the celebratory dessert that’s bringing them joy right now. Take Your Pride Cooking to the Next Level! Our mission is to empower everyone–regardless of race, religion, sexuality, or background–to be a wiz in the kitchen! If you love to cook, but don't know where to start, head to our Book a Class page to see what we're cooking up, and take your kitchen skills to the next level!

  • (Re)Discover Latin America

    We certainly have a soft spot for Latin America. But who doesn’t? The colors, the art, the history, the music, the languages, the drinks, the food! We like to celebrate different cultures in our kitchens all year long, but we can’t deny Hispanic Heritage Month is one of our favorite times of the year, 'cause it allows us to dive deeper into the culture and discover new recipes, ingredients, and talented people of Latin America. Whereas last year we explored Mexico and its regional cuisines, this year we're going to explore the traditions of multiple countries, including Puerto Rico, Argentina, Peru, Mexico and Brazil. We're incredibly proud and grateful for our partnership with Drizly, who shared our same mission of highlighting Latinx owned brands such as Novo Fogo (Brasil), YOLA Mezcal (Mexico), PiscoLogía (Peru). Enjoy the program we put together for you. All businesses highlighted are run by incredibly passionate entrepreneurs. Vámos! Discover Latin America Sept 15 - Oct 15, 2021 http://www.impastiamoclasses.com/discover-latin-america

  • 9 Comfort Food Recipes to Soothe the Soul

    Despite the weirdness of the world, we keep cooking. Grab a cozy blanket, fire up Netflix, and wind down with these classic comfort food recipes. With the weight of the world resting on our shoulders, we're relying even more heavily on the joys of food–making it, enjoying it, and sharing it. Below is a handful of our favorite comfort food recipes, so that you can fill your belly and your heart with something delicious today. 1. Gnocchi First up: gnocchi. Timeless, tasty, and teeny, gnocchi noodles are basically the ultimate comfort food. They require a little bit of prep and attention to detail, which is perfect for getting you out of your head for a few hours. Plus, cooking a homemade meal for yourself can be so fun! Especially if you have the right tools for the job. There are many gnocchi recipes that we love, but here are a few to help you get started: - IMPASTIAMO's Gnocchi Portofino - IMPASTIAMO's Gnocchi with Pomodoro Sauce - NYT's Spinach Gnocchi - Crisp Gnocchi With Brussels Sprouts and Brown Butter 2. Lasagna When in doubt, go with a classic! Lasagna hits all the comfort food requirements: doughy pasta, meaty tomato sauce, melty cheese, all coming together in a rich mouthful that will send you right to the couch after eating. When times are tough, head to your kitchen, whip up a batch of homemade lasagna, and invite your closest friends over for an Italian themed dinner party. 10/10 would recommend... Here are a few of our favorite lasagna recipes: Lasagna Alla Genovese Classic Italian Lasagna Lasagna Alla Norma Lasagna Napoletana Radicchio Pasticcio (Italian Chicory Lasagna) 3. Ramen Everyone knows that a piping hot bowl of ramen is just good for the soul. Ramen is considered to be traditional Japanese comfort food, and it's quickly becoming American comfort food as well. It's reasonably inexpensive, can be customized in tons of different ways, and it also takes time and dedication to make it right. Taking a little extra time to make homemade ramen will be healing in many different ways. Here are a few of our favorite ramen recipes: Easy Japanese Ramen Noodles Curry Ramen with Roast Chicken and Turmeric Miso Ramen Recipe 味噌ラーメン Hiyashi Chuka (Cold Ramen) 冷やし中華 4. Instant Pot Polenta There’s no denying that polenta is a prime example of comfort food, but the time required to stir it on the stovetop to prevent it from sticking to the pan or bubbling over may not be comforting to all home cooks. The solution? Cook it in your favorite multi-cooker! 5. Dumplings Dumplings... a beloved comfort food in many, many different cultures and cuisines. Filled with your choice of veggies, meat or cheese, dumplings are quite simply little packages of love–and we could definitely all use a little more of that these days. 🥟 6. Martha Stewart's Macaroni & Cheese Nothing says "comfort food" quite like a hot bowl of gooey macaroni and cheese–right?? Good for the body, mind, and soul, Martha Stewart's mac-and-cheese recipe will be just think to pull you out of a funk tonight. 7. Cacio E Pepe Cacio e pepe is basically grown-up white cheddar mac and cheese, which is probably why it’s our go-to comfort food for quick weeknight dinners and dinner parties alike. 8. Bread Pudding With Salted Brown Sugar Sauce There's something so cozy and comfortable about warm, custardy bread pudding. You'll want to use a brioche or challah that's rich and buttery, to match the sweet-meets-savory-meets-caramelized sauce. 9. Chocolate Peanut Butter Pudding Pie No roundup of comfort food recipes would be complete without a chocolate pie (or two)–and this one is going to taste like a hug in a pie shell. What's your favorite comfort food? Let us know in the comments below!

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