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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.

This classic Sicilian pasta shape is sure to fulfill your cravings on any given summer day. Find out more about the shape, history, and different recipes that Casarecce pasta can bring to your table. History and Background Casarecce pasta is often compared to “rolled parchment”: with its curled edges and tube-like form, this pasta shape is perfect for getting maximum sauce and flavor with every bite. The name comes from the Italian word “casereccio,” which means “homemade.” This pasta can very well live up to its name! It’s recommended that this pasta is cooked al dente in order to enhance the taste. Sicilian heritage Caserecce pasta is believed to have originated in Sicily, an island with a rich culinary tradition influenced by various cultures, including the Greeks, Romans, Arabs, and Normans. These influences are reflected in the diversity and richness of Sicilian cuisine . With the advent of pasta-making machines, caserecce, like many other traditional pastas, transitioned from being exclusively homemade to being commercially produced. This allowed for wider distribution and availability beyond Italy. What are some rich sauces? These easy rich, creamy sauces will pair well with casarecce. Give them a try! Sausage and cream sauce Add sausage to a skillet with olive oil, breaking it up with a spoon. Add onion and garlic. Pour in ½ cup of white wine and let it simmer. Repeat with heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper, adding parmesan cheese to taste. Pesto cream sauce Put the pesto over medium heat in a large pan.  Stir in the heavy cream and simmer. Season with salt and pepper, adding parmesan cheese to taste. Vodka sauce Saute onion and garlic over olive oil. Add red pepper flakes. Pour in ½ cup of vodka and simmer. Add crushed tomatoes and simmer. Add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper. Truffle mushroom cream sauce Add mushrooms to a skillet over medium heat and cook assorted mushrooms. Add garlic, then pour in ½ cup of white wine and simmer. Pour in heavy cream and let simmer. Add Parmesan cheese and truffle oil . Season with salt and pepper. Bolognese sauce In a large pot, cook onion/carrots/celery over olive oil. Add garlic. Add ground beef and break it up with a spoon. Pour in red wine and simmer. Add crushed tomatoes and simmer. Season with salt and pepper. These are just a few simple sauce ideas that can get you started! Read on to find some creative recipes, if you’re looking to get fancy. And lastly: some creative ideas With these simple base sauces, adding a few interesting flavors could be the way to go. Here are a few ideas to get you started! Firstly, adding a different cheese can be an easy way to spice things up. While Parmesan is a classic and appears in many of the recipes above, something like goat cheese or ricotta cheese can send your culinary tastes above and beyond. In addition, adding some interesting vegetables or fruit can be a great way to play with the texture of the pasta, especially since Casarecce is such a unique pasta shape . Cubed butternut squash, asparagus, or even sun-dried tomatoes are a great way to elevate your dish. Lastly, playing with the main elements of a pasta dish can completely change its flavor palate. Try some shrimp, or other seafood options. Since pasta is such a versatile dish, the world is your oyster (And wow! Oyster pasta sounds delicious…). And of course, creativity is in the eye of the beholder. Try some of your own new flavor pairings! Let us know how your summer of cooking goes.

Learn to make dandelion jam, a sweet and vegan honey alternative. Discover its benefits, best season to prepare, and storage tips.  Dandelion jam is a sweet preserve made from the bright yellow petals of dandelion flowers. It's sometimes referred to as "dandelion honey" due to its similar appearance and taste to honey. This jam captures the delicate flavor of dandelions, which is slightly floral and subtly sweet. The best time to prepare dandelion jam is in the spring, typically between April and June, when dandelions are in full bloom. It's important to pick the flowers on a sunny day when they are fully open and to choose flowers from areas free of pesticides and pollutants. The benefits of Dandelion Jam Dandelions have been used in traditional medicine for centuries. They are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, and contain small amounts of vitamin E, folate, and other B vitamins. Dandelions also provide a substantial amount of several minerals, including iron, calcium, magnesium, and potassium. Consuming dandelion jam may support digestive health, reduce inflammation, and provide antioxidant benefits. Is Dandelion Jam a vegan alternative to honey? Yes, dandelion jam can be considered a vegan alternative to honey. It has a similar sweetness and consistency, making it a great substitute for those who follow a vegan diet or are looking for plant-based alternatives. Recipe for Dandelion Jam Ingredients 4 cups dandelion petals (remove green parts) 4 cups water 1 lemon (juiced) 1 orange (juiced) 1 package (1.75 oz) powdered pectin 4 cups granulated sugar Instructions Prepare the Dandelion petals: Collect fresh dandelion flowers from a clean, pesticide-free area. Remove the yellow petals from the green parts of the flower. You should have about 4 cups of petals. Make the Dandelion infusion: In a large pot, bring the 4 cups of water to a boil. Add the dandelion petals to the boiling water, reduce the heat, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and let the mixture steep for an additional 20 minutes. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth, squeezing out as much liquid as possible. Discard the petals. Prepare the jam: Pour the dandelion infusion back into the pot. Add the lemon juice, orange juice, and powdered pectin. Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over high heat. Add sugar: Add the granulated sugar all at once, stirring constantly. Bring the mixture back to a full rolling boil. Boil for 1-2 minutes, continuing to stir. Check for setting: Remove the pot from heat and test the jam for setting by placing a small amount on a chilled plate. If it thickens and wrinkles when pushed, it's ready. If not, boil for another minute and test again. Jar the jam: Carefully ladle the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace. Wipe the rims of the jars clean and seal with lids and bands. Process the jars: Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to ensure they are sealed properly. Cool and store: Remove the jars from the water bath and let them cool completely on a towel-lined countertop. Check the seals after 24 hours. The lids should be indented and not flex when pressed. Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place. Refrigerate after opening. How to store Dandelion jam Store unopened jars of dandelion jam in a cool, dark place like a pantry or cupboard. They will last for up to one year. Once opened, keep the jam in the refrigerator and use it within a month for the best flavor and quality.

Creating the perfect date night doesn’t need to mean securing a competitive reservation at a popular restaurant, it doesn’t even mean spending half of your last paycheck! It can be as simple as assembling a mini charcuterie board for two at home.  This guide will help you craft an intimate and cozy dining experience with very little effort required! Learn the essentials of building a delicious charcuterie board and how to enhance the evening with perfect wine pairings . What Makes a Charcuterie Board Different from a Cheese Board? While the terms "charcuterie board" and "cheese board" are often mixed up, there is a subtle difference between the two. A cheese board primarily focuses on the cheese ; sometimes accompanied by other items found on a charcuterie board like fruits, nuts, and crackers. However, a charcuterie board will often also include meats , adding a variety to the board that many expect and love when building their own. What Should I Include on Your Charcuterie Board for Two? For a romantic date night, your charcuterie board should offer a bit of everything; some sweet, some salty, some dips, and something to dip with. Here’s a comprehensive list that will be sure to cover you and your boo for the perfect date night in: Cheeses Choose two to three types of cheese to provide a variety of tastes: Gouda: Smooth and creamy. Manchego: Firm and slightly nutty. Aged White Cheddar: Sharp and crumbly. Meats Incorporate a mix of cured meats for different flavors: Prosciutto: Salty and delicate. Peppered Salami: Spicy and robust. Filet Mignon: Tender and flavorful, a luxurious addition to your board. Fruits Sweet fruits balance the savory elements: Dried Apricots and Figs: Chewy and sweet. Fresh Blueberries: Juicy and tart. Nuts Add a handful of your favorite nuts to bring crunch: Cashews: Mild and creamy. Pistachios or Almonds: For a more varied nutty flavor. Candied Pecans: A sweeter pairing for a more dessert-like flavor. Spicy Peanuts: Offers more of a kick and variety to your board. Jams, Spreads, and Condiments Include a variety of spreads and condiments for added depth: Blackberry Jam: Sweet and rich. Dijon Mustard: Tangy and slightly spicy. Blue Cheese Stuffed Olives: Savory and creamy. Honey: For a touch of sweetness. Crackers and Bread These are essential for building bites: Wheat Thins or Saltines: Crunchy and a good base. Pretzels: Because who doesn’t love pretzels? Water Crackers: Light and crisp. Garlic / Herb Crackers: A good chance to explore more seasonings. How to Assemble Your Charcuterie Board Creating an Instagram-ready charcuterie board is easier than you think. Follow these steps: Start with the base : Use a wooden cheese board (or cutting board), or a large plate as your foundation. Add condiments first : Place small bowls or ramekins filled with fig jam, mustard, and olives on the board. Place the cheeses : Place both cut and uncut pieces of cheese in different spots across the board. Add the meats : Fold or roll the cured meats and arrange them around the cheese, creating a visually pleasing splay.  Place the crackers and bread : Scatter them around the board, creating an "S" shape to add visual appeal. Fill in the gaps : Use fruits, nuts, and other extras to fill any empty spaces, making the board look full and mouth-watering. Add fresh herbs : Garnish with fresh rosemary or thyme for an aromatic / aesthetic touch. How to Pair Your Cheese Board with Wine Pairing the right wine with your charcuterie board can elevate the entire experience. Here are some suggestions: Cheddar Cheese: Pairs well with Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, Pinot Noir, and Merlot. Blue Cheese: Matches nicely with Riesling, Chianti, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Shiraz. Gouda: Compliments Champagne, Sauvignon Blanc, a French Bordeaux, or a Cabernet Franc. By following these steps and tips, you can create a mini charcuterie board that not only looks stunning but also provides a delightful dining experience. Whether it's a special occasion or a regular date night, this board is sure to impress your partner and make the evening memorable .

Located on the east coast of Sicily with beautiful views of the Ionian Sea, Taormina is a stunning experience filled with ancient ruins and lively culture. But first: some tips For gorgeous weather and to avoid the crowds, spring and fall are great seasons to visit Taormina in. Otherwise–this city stays beautiful all year long. Taormina is quite walkable and well-lit, and this can serve as your main form of transportation. Otherwise, buses and taxis are also available. Lastly–while Italian is the official language in Taormina, English is widely understood in touristy areas. Attractions Mount Etna As Europe’s highest and more active volcano, Mount Etna is a great place to go hiking and exploring. Whether you want to take things at your own pace or take a guided tour, this is a great place to check out a landmark. Teatro Antico di Taormina Speaking of Mount Etna, if you’d like to see the volcano in the distance, this ancient theater is iconic and beautiful. With a view of the volcano and the sea, attending a concert/event here is a great way to experience the landscape and culture of Taormina. Piazza IX Aprile This square is a great place to immerse yourself in the historical culture of Taormina. With views of the Church of San Giuseppe from a panoramic terrace, it’s sure to wow you at any time of day. Corso Umberto Looking for shops? Cafes? The Taormina vibe? This main street is the perfect place to start. Let the cobblestones lead the way! Isola Bella In warm weather, this small island is the perfect place to go. Whether you’d like to swim, snorkel, or sunbathe–this is sure to be a relaxing and elegant experience. A Taste of Culture Wine tasting: if you’re near Mount Etna, be sure to stop by the vineyards and sample some Etna wines. Otherwise, look for the various vineyards scattered across Taormina! Cuisine: pasta alla Norma followed by a cannoli treat? Sounds perfect. Local restaurants are sure to serve whatever you desire. If you are visiting in June, the Taormina Film Festival is a great place to watch some films and perhaps catch a sight of some stars. Don’t forget the jaw-dropping views! Head to our IMPASTIAMO website for more information on Sicily! From the meaning of the Sicilian flag to an extensive map of the region , you will be sure to answer your curiosities soon.