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Chock-full of festivals, processions, and traditions, Easter is one of the most widely acclaimed holidays in Italy. Falling on the last day of March this year, Easter marks the entrance of sunnier days and various rites. Read on to find out how to make some delicious Italian Easter desserts to complement the celebration! Regional Differences Even if Easter is renowned throughout Italy, there are regional differences in the way that people celebrate, connect, and eat. While in Bormio (Northern Italy), you might find flower floats and traditional costumes–in Tredozio (a small village in the Centre of Italy), you might find more games, battles, and symbolic eggs. Likewise, this article will cover a variety of recipes from different places, so read on to find a few great recipes and a little slice of history! Some Desserts If you are looking to find the names of Italian Easter desserts, here is the complete list for you. Colomba Pasquale If you are familiar with the traditional Italian Christmas cake Panettone, the Colomba Pasquale is its Easter counterpart. As a traditional dove-shaped cake, it’s often topped with almonds and sugar, which symbolizes peace and renewal. The texture of Colomba Pasquale is light and airy, with a slightly chewy crust. The process of making the cake is lengthy, as the dough requires several hours to rise, sometimes over the course of several days, to develop its characteristic flavors and textures. Soft and sweet, this is the perfect dessert for an Easter celebration! Pastiera Napoletana This dessert is widely popular in Southern Italy, and originated from Naples. Pastiera is a ricotta and grain pie that is flavored with orange blossom water and sometimes adorned with candied fruits. As a symbol of Neapolitan culinary tradition, this dessert is not only delicious–but beautiful, too. Casatiello As a savory dessert, Casatiello is round and contains the popular Easter symbol–eggs. Originating from Naples, the rich dough filled with salami, cheese, and eggs makes for the perfect savory treat. La Torta della Nonna Translated as “Grandmother’s cake,” La Torta della Nonna comes from Tuscany and is comforting just as a time-old recipe might be. A buttery and flaky pastry filled with custard, the powdered sugar finish is sure to have you come back for more. Uova di Pasqua Now, for the one you’ve been expecting– eggs, specifically chocolate ones. As a popular Easter treat, they are not only delicious but also may contain surprises or small toys. Perfect for the little ones! Pardulas Originally from Sardinia, these small pastries are made me ricotta, saffron, and citrus zest. They have a crisp shell and a creamy filling–making the perfect combination for a delicious bite-sized dessert. Once baked, Pardulas have a golden exterior with a creamy, rich interior. They are usually dusted with powdered sugar before serving, adding an extra layer of sweetness. Pardulas embody the essence of Sardinian pastry tradition, showcasing the island's love for simple, flavorful ingredients Ciambella Pasquale With “ciambella” meaning ring or doughnut, this simple Easter cake is ring-shaped and flavored with lemon or orange zest. Decorated with colorful sprinkles, this one is sure to catch your eye. Scarcella Visually made to look like a figure or a basket, this pastry is adorned with colors and is popular in the Puglia region. Who can resist an adorable bunny pastry filled with almonds or dried fruit? Cuzzupa Last but not least, from the Calabria region, Cuzzupa is a bread or cake that is shaped into intricate designs (like a figure eight). Often with eggs (in the dough or as a topping) symbolizing rebirth, this sweet dessert is a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re looking to find some delicious desserts or discover bits of history, this list gives a general overview of some popular Italian Easter desserts. To find out more or find a recipe, just insert the name and “recipe” into a search engine! Sweet treats await. Time To Celebrate! Whether you are a regular celebrator of Easter or just beginning to learn about it, these popular Italian Easter desserts might give you an idea of where to start this year. Food is an incredible way to connect with other people and with other cultures–so get inspired, get knowledgable, and get cooking. We can’t wait to see what you discover and make.

Discover our top picks for truffle seasonings, featuring must-try brands and shopping destinations for every gourmet lover Who doesn't love truffle? Quite a few people, actually. We know the flavor and smell of truffle aren't for everybody. The world usually divides into two big categories: those who absolutely love truffle, and those who dislike it. However, we recently found out there's a third category of food enthusiasts who have mixed feelings about the truffle quest: those who are genuinely curious about the mushroom but are unsure how to use it, find it hard to buy, or think it's too expensive. We might have the solution for you to add some luxury to your daily meals: truffle seasonings. We've scoured the market for the crème de la crème of truffle seasonings, featuring standout brands and guiding you on where to snap them up. Whether you're spicing up a weeknight dinner or impressing guests at your next dinner party, our recommendations are poised to infuse your dishes with unparalleled depth and sophistication. Black Truffle Himalayan Pink Salt, by Truffle Dealers This mineral-rich salt, infused with the robust flavor of black truffle , acts as the kitchen's glitter, sprinkling gourmet magic on everything it touches. It transforms scrambled eggs, roasted vegetables, crispy potato fries, and even popcorn into luxurious culinary experiences. Composed of Himalayan pink salt and enriched with 2% dehydrated summer truffle (Tuber Aestivum Vitt.), along with added flavors, it offers an accessible way to infuse the opulent notes of truffle into everyday meals, turning each dining occasion into a moment of indulgence. Truffle, Parmesan & Black Garlic Seasoning, by Curious Spoon Curious Spoon's Truffle, Parmesan & Black Garlic Seasoning ingeniously merges the deep, umami-packed essences of truffles, black garlic, and Parmesan cheese into a versatile, user-friendly powder form. This innovative concoction is designed to offer a gourmet touch to everyday meals, making it effortless to infuse a luxurious depth of flavor into a wide array of dishes. Truffles, known for their rich, earthy aroma, combine seamlessly with the complex, caramelized sweetness of black garlic and the sharp, salty notes of Parmesan cheese, creating a harmonious blend that enhances the taste profile of anything it's added to. Truffle Everything Seasoning, by The Truffleist The Truffle Everything Seasoning , infused with Italian Black Truffles, brings an upscale twist to the classic savory blend. Developed in collaboration with Greenpoint Trading and drawing inspiration from the esteemed New York bagel-deli specialist and “Recipe Lost & Found” celebrity chef, Casey Corn, this blend includes an array of ingredients such as black and white sesame seeds, onion, caraway, and their distinctive Truffle Salt. Ideal for a wide range of dishes, from enhancing the flavors of toasted focaccia and guacamole to Caesar Salad and even a Ham & Jam Sandwich, it's celebrated for its versatility in elevating the culinary experience. Truffle Salt, by Truffle Shuffle Truffle salt stands out as a favored truffle-infused product, renowned for its ease of use and ability to deliver a satisfying truffle experience, according to experts. Produced by McKinney's company, Balinese Truffle Salt blends porcini mushroom powder, Tuber aestivum (also known as the Burgundy summer truffle), and natural yeast to enhance the umami flavor. The use of wet Balinese salt ensures the ingredients bind well, resulting in a seasoning that enhances dishes effectively. Additionally, truffle salt offers the advantage of a prolonged shelf life, remaining usable for up to 18 months, although it's likely to be consumed long before then. Truffle Zest, by Sabatino Truffle Zest tops the global charts as the most popular truffle seasoning. It's crafted from finely ground black summer truffles known for their rich and earthy scent. This creates a seasoning that is both low in calories and sodium, yet brimming with genuine black truffle taste and fragrance, making it a versatile addition to any recipe.

A staple in every Italian house, the Oil Cruet is more than just a fancy addition to your kitchen: it's a practical tool to elevate your homemade pizza and cooking experience First thing first: what is an oil cruet? An oil cruet is a small container or bottle designed for holding and dispensing oil, especially olive oil, which is a staple in many kitchens around the world. These cruets can be made from various materials such as glass, ceramic, or metal and often come with a pour spout or a drizzle cap to allow for controlled dispensing of the oil. The design of the cruet can range from simple and functional to decorative and elaborate, making them not only useful kitchen tools but also a part of the table setting. When it comes to making Neapolitan pizza, an oil cruet plays a significant role in both the preparation of the dough and the finishing of the pizza before baking. Here's how it can be used: Finishing touch : before baking, olive oil is often drizzled over the pizza toppings. This not only adds flavor but also helps in achieving a golden, crispy crust. An oil cruet is perfect for this task as it allows for a fine, controlled drizzle of oil over the pizza. Serving : in many pizzerias and Italian restaurants, an oil cruet is placed on the table, allowing diners to add a little extra olive oil to their pizza if they wish. When can I use my oil cruet? An oil cruet can be used in various situations in the kitchen and at the dining table, making it a versatile tool for both cooking and serving. Here are some common scenarios where an oil cruet comes in handy: Cooking Dressing salads : an oil cruet allows for a controlled pour of olive oil or your dressing of choice over salads. Its precise pouring helps ensure that salads are not overdressed, maintaining the right balance of flavors. Sautéing and frying : when cooking, use the cruet to drizzle oil into pans for sautéing or shallow frying. Marinating : Use the cruet to pour oil over meats, vegetables, or other foods you're preparing to marinate. Serving At the table : place the oil cruet on the dining table to allow guests or family members to add extra oil to their dishes according to their taste preferences. Finishing dishes : use the cruet for a final drizzle of oil over dishes before serving. This is often done in Mediterranean cuisine to enhance the flavor of soups, stews, pastas, and pizzas. Hosting and entertaining Oil tasting : if you're hosting a tasting event or educating guests on different types of olive oils, a cruet is an elegant way to present and serve each variety. Decorative table setting : a stylish oil cruet can add to the aesthetic of your table setting, especially if you're going for a particular theme or ambiance. How to use and clean your oil cruet Using an oil cruet is quite straightforward, but there are a few tips and techniques to get the most out of it, especially when aiming for precision and avoiding spills. Here's how to use an oil cruet effectively: Filling the cruet Choose your oil : decide on the type of oil you want to store in your cruet. Olive oil is a popular choice due to its frequent use in dressings and cooking, but you can use any liquid cooking oil. Use a funnel : to avoid spills, use a small funnel to transfer oil from its original container to the cruet. Don't overfill : leave a little space at the top to prevent spills when you insert the stopper or cap. Dispensing oil Remove the cap or stopper : carefully remove the cap, stopper, or lid from the cruet. If it has a flip-top or a spout with a cover, open it gently. Tilt and pour slowly : tilt the cruet over your cooking pan, salad, or measuring spoon, and pour the oil slowly. The design of the cruet should allow for a controlled flow of oil, enabling you to drizzle or pour as needed. After use Wipe the spout : if any oil dripped down the spout or the outside of the cruet, use a cloth or paper towel to wipe it clean. This helps prevent drips on your countertop and keeps the cruet looking neat. Replace the cap or stopper : always replace the cap, stopper, or cover after use to keep the oil fresh and prevent exposure to air, which can cause oxidation. Store properly : keep the cruet in a cool, dark place if possible, especially if it's made of clear glass. Exposure to light and heat can degrade the quality of oil over time. Where can I buy an oil cruet? You can now pre-order your 1/4 l or your 1/2l Traditional Neapolitan oil cruet at our IMPASTIAMO Shop

With the release of the new Barbie movie in 2023, there’s no doubt that Barbie-themed events will take place throughout 2024. Read on to find recipes for delicious Barbie drinks for all ages and fun ways to personalize your experience. With these drinks, every night is girls’ night.  Cocktails For the adults (because no one is too old for Barbie) who want a fun alcoholic beverage: listed below are a few simple cocktail recipes that you are sure to enjoy! Use a shaker or stir well. Enjoy! (Pink) Martini: 2 oz raspberry vodka 1 oz cranberry juice 1 oz pineapple juice Splash of grenadine Tropical Barbie: 2 oz Malibu coconut rum 1 oz cranberry juice 1 oz orange juice ½ oz lime juice Splash of club soda (Pink) Bubblegum Barbie: 1 ½ oz bubblegum-flavored vodka ½ oz raspberry liqueur ½ oz lemon juice ½ oz simple syrup Club soda Strawberry Blonde Sangria: 1 bottle of rose wine ½ cup strawberry vodka ¼ cup elderflower liqueur Strawberry slices Lemon slices Mint leaves Mocktails If you would rather have a great time without the alcohol, or want to make these options kid-friendly, listed below are mocktail recipes for your enjoyment. Just like the movie, these drinks are for anyone. (Pink) Mocktini: 2 oz raspberry syrup 2 oz cranberry juice 2 oz pineapple juice ½ oz orange juice Splash of grenadine Tropical Barbie Mocktail: 2 oz coconut water 1 oz cranberry juice 1 oz orange juice ½ oz lime juice Splash of club soda (Pink) Bubblegum Barbie Mocktail: 1 ½ oz bubblegum-flavored syrup ½ oz raspberry syrup ½ oz lemon juice ½ oz simple syrup Club soda Strawberry Blonde Sparkler: 1 bottle of non-alcoholic sparkling rose or sparkling water ½ cup strawberry syrup ¼ cup elderflower syrup Strawberry slices Lemon slices Mint leaves P is for Pink! Great, you have the basics. The wonderful thing about the ultimate Barbie drink is that you can personalize it, and what better way to do that than to make your drink pink? Most of the recipes above already have that pink hue, but in case you want to make them pinker or automatically convert some other drinks to Barbie status, here are a few ways to tickle your drink pink! A drop or two of red coloring Puree raspberries and add them to your drink! Cranberry or pomegranate juice For pink ice cubes: boil water with dried hibiscus flowers, and freeze them in an ice cube tray Fun Add-Ons For each drink, the best way to present it in a way that feels fabulous is to pay attention to the different garnishes that you can add. Whether that’s a parasol, a strawberry slice, a cherry, or a pink sugar rim, the possibilities are endless! Don’t forget your add-ons, and definitely don’t leave the fun at home. Hey, Barbie! Ultimately, the best part about these drinks is making them–maybe alone, listening to the Barbie soundtrack; or together with the people you love. Gather all your Barbies for this fun-loving activity–and celebrate your big or little wins, together. Hey Barbie! Let’s party.

Using sourdough discard to make cinnamon rolls is the best way for repurposing something to make a delicious sweet treat What Is Sourdough Discard? Sourdough discard is the portion of sourdough starter (the mixture of flour and water that contains yeast and bacteria over time) that is removed before feeding the starter. Although sourdough discard can be used to create a new starter, it can also be used in various recipes. As with the typical nature of sourdough, sourdough discard in recipes can add that tangy flavor and deepen the taste of your favorite baked goods. In addition, the moisture that it adds to recipes can make your food taste fresher for longer. Sourdough discard has been through the fermentation process, so it has health benefits as well–rich in probiotics, which is great for the gut.  A richer flavor and a healthy plus? Count us in. Here's to delicious and nutritious cinnamon rolls. Cinnamon Rolls Using Sourdough Discard Like any other recipe, there are so many ways to make sourdough discard cinnamon rolls–here’s a quick and easy recipe for you, with delicious cream cheese frosting! A general rule of thumb is to add one cup of sourdough discard to your dough. Dough 1 cup sourdough discard 1 cup warm milk ½ cup melted unsalted butter ¼ cup granulated sugar 1 teaspoon salt 4 cups flour 1 packet active dry yeast 1 egg Filling ½ cup softened unsalted butter 1 cup packed brown sugar 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon Frosting 4 oz softened cream cheese ¼ cup softened unsalted butter 1 cup powdered sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Instructions Combine discard, milk, butter, sugar, and salt. Add active dry yeast. Stir in the egg. Gradually add flour, then knead the dough until it becomes smooth. Cover the dough with a damp cloth, and let rise until it doubles in size (~1-2 hours). Preheat oven to 375 degrees F, or 190 degrees C. Spread butter over rolled-out dough and sprinkle the filling evenly. Roll the dough into a log and cut it into equal-sized rolls. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown. Let cool. Spread frosting over warm cinnamon rolls. As with any other recipe, you can personalize the filling, the toppings, and the garnish. Have fun and enjoy! Other Options The great thing about sourdough discard is that you can use it for so many other recipes. Listed below are a few other options besides cinnamon rolls, in case you want that tangy twist in some other recipes: Sugar cookies Pie crust Waffles or pancakes Muffins Pizza crust Banana bread Have fun exploring everything else you can do! With sourdough discard, this is just  the beginning.

Whether it’s a cozy night in, or a fun day full of celebrations, one food has always been there–pizza. Enjoyed by people of all cultures and all ages, pizza has become a staple food that people share all around the world. Read on to find out about our favorite classic pizzas! Prepared to be inspired to munch on a cheesy slice. What Makes A Classic Pizza Classic pizzas are not only iconic and well-loved, but also timeless. These pizzas have stood the test of time, and they are usually simple and delectable. Here’s a list of a few classic pizzas you might want to indulge in: Margherita The beauty of simplicity lies in this c lassic pizza. The ingredients are: tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, basil, olive oil. Marinara Photo via Gozney The Marinara is a simple yet flavorful pizza with no cheese, dressed instead with a garlic-rich tomato sauce, oregano, fresh basil, and a generous drizzle of olive oil. It's the embodiment of simplicity, with a bright, aromatic flavor that highlights the quality of its few ingredients. Diavola (aka Pepperoni) The ingredients are: tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, pepperoni slices. The combination makes for a bold, spicy, and slightly smoky flavor profile that spicy food lovers will appreciate. Quattro Formaggi Photo by Feng Chen, via Gozney This pizza is a cheese lover's dream, combining four different types of cheese, such as mozzarella, gorgonzola, Parmesan, and ricotta or fontina. It's creamy, indulgent, and aromatic, with a delightful blend of textures. Calzone Stuffed pizza–portable, different, and delicious! The ingredients are: pizza dough, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, ham/salami. Just to name a few. Read on to find out how you can spice these up, to your choosing! Classic Toppings Just like there are classic pizzas, there are some toppings that always hit the spot. Here’s a few–either to inspire you, or to add on to the classic pizza ingredients! Mushrooms Green bell peppers Onions Olives Sausage Basil Anchovies Parmesan cheese Oregano Your Own Classic Pizza With the tools that this article has given you, you have the power to either recreate a classic pizza or put your own twist to it. After all, what makes something classic is up to interpretation. The great thing about pizza-making is that you can personalize it–turning it into an exciting experience, from rolling out the dough to clearing the plate. There’s no such thing as too cheesy –make your pizzas classic and sentimental!

Whether you’ve seen the sleepy girl mocktail trending or are looking for a way to improve your sleep (aren’t we all?), you’ve come to the right place The main parts of the sleepy girl mocktail recipe are the tart cherry juice and the magnesium powder–but how exactly do they work? Benefits Tart cherries vary slightly from your typical cherries, as they have high amounts of melatonin. While you may have heard of melatonin in pill or liquid form, tart cherries carry this hormone naturally. Tart cherries also have anti-inflammatory effects, which lowers stress hormones, making it more likely for you to be able to relax. Since fresh tart cherries are harder to come by, pure tart cherry juice is the recommended ingredient for the sleepy girl mocktail. Unsweetened tart cherry juice is usually recommended. Similarly to the tart cherry juice, magnesium is a natural muscle relaxer. Because many people don’t get enough magnesium with their daily food intake, adding a tablespoon of magnesium powder is not only beneficial to your sleep but also for your holistic health. While there are two types of magnesium powder–magnesium citrate versus magnesium glycinate, it’s better to go with the latter, which doesn’t have as severe side effects and will allow you to truly relax before your night of rest. As with any recipe for good sleep, it’s best to see how your body is doing and go with what works for you. Everyone is different–so take this sleepy girl mocktail with a grain of salt. Some people even recommend drinking it with a snack in order to help avoid the rise in blood sugar from the tart cherry juice. Try it out, and let us know how it goes! Enjoy a drink to cap off your long days, and have a restful night of sleep! Sleepy girl mocktails are in, just like getting your beauty sleep. Recipes The recipe for the sleepy girl mocktail is simple: ½ cup pure tart cherry juice 1 tablespoon of magnesium powder Fizzy drink of your choice: prebiotic soda or sparkling water Feel free to switch things up, especially with the fizzy drink. Depending on your preference, you could add ice in true mocktail fashion.

Held on May 5th, Cinco de Mayo is one of the most widely celebrated days each year. Celebrating victory and filled with lots of vibrant colors, here’s a guide to putting together the perfect menu this year. A delicious complement to all the fun, exciting events that will undoubtedly be happening! The Picks! With these recommendations, you are sure to be coming back to the kitchen every hour of the day. Here are some crowd-pleasers: Appetizers Chips + Guac : A classic! You can make this as easy or as creative as you want–homemade guacamole with avocados, lime juice, tomatoes, onions, and cilantro is sure to make everybody happy. Salsa Fresca : Another dip for your chips! Fresh tomatoes are great for a pre-summer celebration. Queso Dip : And one more…because who doesn’t love cheese? This rotation of dips makes for a great balance between refreshing and hearty. Mini Tacos : Easy to make, and a teaser of the main dish. Any fillings work–maybe some chicken or carnitas–the list goes on and on. Mexican Street Corn (Elote) : Garnished with chili powder and lime. Who doesn’t like some corn as an appetizer? Tostadas : A toasted tortilla filled with meat or seafood and topped with refried beans, shredded lettuce, cheese, and tomatoes–a little bit of everything for a whole lot of fun.  Nachos : The one you’ve been waiting for. A great appetizer for all ages. Main Dishes Tacos : Here we go! Setting up a DIY taco station could be a fun idea–not only does this ensure that everyone gets the taco of their dreams, but it also makes it easier on you. Enchiladas : Rolled corn tortillas filled with your choice of protein (maybe with some extra cheese or beans) and topped with enchilada sauce and melted cheese. A side of rice and beans, for a filling meal. Fajitas : Marinated meat or seafood with bell peppers and onions! Serve however you’d like–maybe even as a side for some tacos. Burritos : Add some large flour tortillas to your taco station for some burritos! Reach over to your appetizers list for a side of chips and salsa, too. Tamales : Corn masa dough filled with pork, chicken, cheese, or vegetables. Wrapped in corn husks and steamed until cooked through, you might want to stock up on these–they might be gone in seconds. Dessert Churros : Fried pastries with cinnamon sugar. Serve warm! Tres Leches Cake : A sponge cake soaked in a three milk mixture (evaporated milk, condensed milk, and heavy cream). Top with whipped cream and fresh fruit! Flan : Custard dessert made with delicious caramel sauce on top when served. Mexican Chocolate Cake : Chocolate cake–but with a kick. Cinnamon and chili powder adds the perfect amount of spice! Paletas : For a hot day, these Mexican-style popsicles will be perfect! You can go with fresh fruit or juice, or even coconut milk. Drinks Margaritas : A classic. Whether you want to go with the usual lime or some different flavors, serve cold and enjoy! Mexican Beer Horchata : A creamy and sweet rice milk beverage flavored with cinnamon and vanilla! Perfect for all ages and tastebuds. Agua Fresca : Fruit-infused waters! Whether you choose watermelon, cucumber-lime, or pineapple, this is perfect for a hot day. Mexican Hot Chocolate : If it’s not as hot or it’s the end of the day, Mexican hot chocolate (cocoa, cinnamon, and chili powder) is the perfect night cap. While this list is not exhaustive, there is sure to be something that catches your eye. Feel free to mix and match these sweet and savory bits for your Cinco de Mayo Menu . Something Fresh As with any celebration, a personal twist is always a great idea! Feel free to add your spin to these recipes (based on dietary restrictions, personal preferences, etc.)–and have fun with this holiday!

Have you watched The Bear? If so, we know you’ve been dying to try the infamous family meal spaghetti recipe. Is it as mouthwatering as it seems on TV? It’s time to find out! We won’t spoil much, but ever since the recipe and process of making this life-changing spaghetti has aired on TV, it’s been at the top of our “to-be-cooked” list. Why San Marzano Tomatoes? Mikey knew how to prepare the perfect tomato sauce. San Marzano tomatoes are a variety of plum tomatoes considered among the best in the world for making sauces. They are known for their distinctive elongated shape, red color, and a pointed end. They are grown in the rich volcanic soil at the base of Mount Vesuvius, which is believed to contribute to their low acidity, sweet flavor, and minimal seed content. Recognized for their premium quality, did you know that San Marzano tomatoes are protected under the European Union's Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status? This designation ensures that only tomatoes grown in the specific area around San Marzano sul Sarno, near Naples, Italy, can be sold as "San Marzano" tomatoes. Their firm pulp, deep flavor, and easy-to-remove skin make them particularly valued for use in various Italian dishes, particularly for making a dense, flavorful tomato sauce. Ingredients Straight from the source, here is the recipe for The (infamous) Bear Spaghetti Recipe. 10 garlic cloves (preferably fresh) Basil (also preferably fresh) Olive oil Onion 56 oz San Marzano Tomatoes (according to Mikey, the smaller cans taste better). Feel free to use a different brand of canned tomatoes if necessary. Recipe Prepare the Pasta Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add a generous pinch of salt and the spaghetti. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Start the Sauce: While the pasta cooks, heat ½ cup of olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the peeled garlic cloves and a few basil leaves. Let the mixture come to a slow boil and then reduce to a simmer. Allow the basil to wilt, then remove it from the saucepan. Continue to cook the garlic until it turns golden brown, then remove the saucepan from the heat. Return the wilted basil to the pan and set aside to cool. Cook the Onion In another pan, melt some butter with a little oil. Add the halved onion and sear until it is golden brown. Combine Tomatoes To the onion, add the canned tomatoes and bring the mixture to a simmer. Blend the Basil and Garlic Transfer the cooled basil and garlic to a blender. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and puree the mixture until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Finish the Sauce Pour the basil-garlic puree into the simmering tomato and onion sauce. Stir well and continue to cook for a few more minutes. Remove the onion from the sauce and add chopped herbs if using. Adjust seasoning as needed. Combine with Spaghetti Drain the spaghetti, reserving some pasta water. Add the spaghetti directly into the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Add a little pasta water if the sauce needs thinning. Serve Serve the spaghetti garnished with fresh chopped basil or grated Parmesan cheese. An elevated twist on a classic meal! Let us know how it is–rumor has it that it’s the best spaghetti recipe out there.

With spring and summer approaching, some refreshing drinks are due to take center stage. Here are some non-alcoholic Mexican drinks that are sure to satisfy your cravings. Key Ingredients Before giving you the nitty-gritty details of some delicious drinks, here are a few key ingredients that you can mix-and-match, or add as garnish to some summer drinks. Hibiscus Flowers : Hibiscus flowers have a deep red color and a floral flavor. Tamarind : Tamarind pods or tamarind concentrate are used to create a perfect mixture of sweet and tangy flavor in your beverages! Fruits : Fresh fruits such as watermelon, pineapple, mango, and cantaloupe are often used to make drinks taste naturally fresh. Perfect in drinks and perfect as a snack! Cinnamon : Cinnamon sticks or ground cinnamon are common additions to Mexican beverages, adding a hint of spice. Lime : Lime juice is a staple! Who doesn’t love a lime garnish? Agave Syrup : Agave syrup is used as a sweetener in Mexican drinks. It has a milder flavor compared to other sweeteners and blends well with various ingredients. Now, for the drink recipes… Recipes Aguas Frescas de Frutas Blend a variety of fruits (watermelon, cantaloupe, pineapple, or mango) with water and some sweetener, and serve cold. As refreshing as it gets! Horchata Photo from: Growing Up Bilingual Let rice, cinnamon sticks, vanilla extract, and water sit overnight. Blend it in the morning and strain! Sweeten (if necessary) and serve over ice. Café de Olla (Mexican Spiced Coffee) Want a little pick-me-up? Brew coffee with some cinnamon sticks, cloves, and brown sugar. Coffee with a spice and caffeine kick! Tepache For this one, you’ll just need to ferment some pineapple peel with water, brown sugar, and some spices. In a few days, when it’s bubbly–strain and serve over ice! Mexican Hot Chocolate If you’re craving something piping hot–heat some milk with Mexican chocolate or cocoa powder, and don’t forget a pinch of chili powder! Sweeten and garnish with cinnamon to your liking. Cucumber Agua Fresca Because who doesn’t love a refreshing drink? This cucumber and lime combo will have you coming back for more. Sweeten, strain, and serve (cucumber garnish if you’re feeling fancy). Tamarind Lime Cooler Remember this from the key ingredients list? Mix some tamarind concentrate with lime (or lime juice), water, and sugar. Serve cold. Enjoy these beverages in warmer weather! Here’s to sunny days.

While sweet and tangy mulberries might have a short shelf life, mulberry jam begs to differ. This summer, delicious mulberry jam can be a new classic in your meals! Mulberry jam is a type of fruit preserve made from mulberries, which are the sweet, juicy fruits of the mulberry tree. Mulberries come in various colors, including red, white, and black, and they are known for their rich, complex flavor that is both sweet and slightly tart. Mulberry jam is popular because of its unique taste and versatility in culinary applications. The process of making it is similar to that of other fruit jams, but the distinctive flavor of mulberries makes it a special treat. Here is a simple recipe to make your own mulberry jam at home: Ingredients 4 cups of mulberries: be sure to wash them and remove the stems! 2 cups of white sugar 1 tablespoon of lemon juice 1 packet of powdered fruit pectin: similar to gelatin but not made with animal products, this will be used as a gelling agent to make your jam. Water Recipe In a saucepan (the bigger the better!), crush the mulberries using a potato masher to release their juices. Stir in the granulated sugar and lemon juice until combined. Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes to allow the sugar to dissolve. In a separate bowl, mix the powdered fruit pectin with water. The packet should have instructions for the correct amount of water. Bring the saucepan to a boil and stir to avoid sticking or burning. Once the mixture is boiling, add the dissolved pectin and continue stirring for 1-2 minutes. Using a spoon, skim off any foam that might form. Lower the heat and simmer the jam for an additional 10-15 minutes. Depending on the thickness of jam you want, it could take shorter or longer. The jam will further thicken as it cools. Remove from heat and let cool. Place into jars and refrigerate! If you are looking into more long-term preservation, be sure to seal the jars properly and store them in a cool, dark place. Enjoy! This jam recipe can also be used for other summer berries, if you’re looking for a variety of flavors. Read on to find out some of the delicious ways you can incorporate jam into many dishes. Mulberry Jam & ____ Toast Yogurt Pancakes (with maple syrup, of course) Scones Filling for pastries, pies, and cakes! Jam-glazed chicken Sandwiches Whatever your vision is, mulberry jam is there to support it. Let us know what other delicious recipes you come up with this season!

So you’ve made the perfect pasta salad. But now, the question is: How long does it last? How do you make sure that your pasta salad lasts in the fridge? The Basic Rules If you have the base of a pasta salad with just some pasta, greens, and a light dressing, it can last 3-5 days in the fridge . Be sure to store it in an airtight container. You could also put in some additions for days, creating a wide variety of pasta salads. If you have some cooked meat, shrimp, or heavy dressings, it will last 1-2 days . Be sure to consume within this timeline in order to ensure safety! Avoid leaving out any pasta salad at room temperature for more than 2 hours. Storing it in the fridge is a great way to make sure it lasts a little bit longer. Some other tips: store the pasta salad in the coldest part of the fridge . Dividing the pasta salads into smaller portions can also be convenient and help maintain freshness. How to make it last longer To make your pasta salad last longer in the fridge, follow these tips: Cool pasta properly After cooking the pasta, rinse it with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down quickly. This helps prevent it from becoming mushy and keeps it fresh longer. Use fresh ingredients Ensure all ingredients are fresh and properly washed. Using high-quality, fresh vegetables, meats, and cheeses can extend the shelf life of your pasta salad. Avoid overdressing Add the dressing just before serving or use a minimal amount when preparing. Excess dressing can make the salad soggy and reduce its shelf life. You can store the dressing separately and mix it in when you're ready to eat. Use Vinegar-Based Dressings : Opt for vinegar-based dressings instead of creamy ones. Vinegar acts as a preservative and can help keep your pasta salad fresh longer. Store properly Store the pasta salad in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out and to keep bacteria at bay. Make sure the container is sealed well. Keep at the Right Temperature Store the pasta salad in the coldest part of your fridge, typically at or below 40°F (4°C). Avoid Cross-Contamination Use clean utensils when serving the salad to avoid introducing bacteria from other foods. Telltale Signs Regardless of the ingredients and the baseline timeline above, if you see any signs of spoilage, be sure to discard the pasta salad immediately. Some of these signs might include odor, mold, and unusual texture. Trust your intuition when it comes to this, and stay safe!  Enjoy your pasta salads.