Desserts | The Artful Gourmet :: Food Stylist | Photographer | Blogger

July 2, 2020September 3, 2022

{new post} :: Strawberry Jam Galette

I love making berry desserts in the Summer because they are in peak season and a fresh healthy alternative to cakes and cookies during the holidays. This Strawberry Jam Galette is one of my absolute favs..it’s super easy and simple, extra delicious, and a gorgeous addition to your July 4th holiday table at that!

It’s made with a flaky whole wheat pastry dough, fresh strawberries (I love Driscoll’s berries!), strawberry jam, a touch of agave and vanilla, some lemon juice and zest, topped with fresh torn mint leaves. You can use any berries you like or a combination of your favs to make it your own. Swap out the strawberry jam if you like to add another layer of flavor, like blueberry or raspberry jam. Serve topped with vanilla ice cream or fresh whipped cream for the ultimate Summer berry dessert. Maybe throw a few chopped pistachios or slivered almonds on top too for extra crunch.

I’ve also provided options for making this #lowcarb and/or #glutenfree in the recipe (swapping out Stevia, Swerve Brown Sugar and Nectevia agave nectar for honey and sugar, using sugar-free jam, and swapping xanthan gum for cornstarch, and serving with low-sugar or homemade sugar-free whipped cream or #keto ice cream.

Enjoy and Happy July 4th!

Yum

Strawberry Jam Galette

Prep Time: 1 hour, 15 minutes

Cook Time: 45 minutes

Total Time: 2 hours

Yield: 8

Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8th galette)

This Strawberry Jam Galette is one of my absolute favs..it's super easy and simple, extra delicious, and a gorgeous addition to your July 4th holiday table at that!

It's made with a flaky whole wheat pastry dough, fresh strawberries (I love Driscoll's berries!), strawberry jam, a touch of agave and vanilla, lemon juice and zest, topped with fresh torn mint leaves, vanilla ice cream and/or fresh whipped cream. Enjoy and Happy 4th!

Ingredients

Crust
½ cup cold unsalted butter
1 ½ cups whole wheat flour
2 teaspoons sugar (or 1 teaspoon stevia)
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup ice water
Berry Jam Filling
4 cups fresh strawberries, halved
1/4 cup honey or Nectevia agave syrup
1 tablespoon cornstarch (or xanthan gum)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice + 1 teaspoon lemon zest
1/2 cup strawberry jam (low sugar or sugar-free if desired)
1 egg, beaten or 2 tablespoons milk (for crust)
1-2 tablespoons coarse brown sugar (for crust, optional)
1 tablespoon fresh mint leaves, for serving
Vanilla ice cream or fresh whipped cream, for serving

Instructions

Cut the butter into small chunks and place in a food processor and slowly pulse together with the flour, sugar (or stevia), and salt until barely combined with a few chunks of butter. Slowly add in ice water until a shaggy dough forms. (You can also do tis with your hands or a pastry cutter if you prefer).
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 1 minute. Cover it with plastic wrap and place in the fridge for 1 hour while you prepare the filling.
In a medium bowl, combine the strawberries, Nectevia syrup (or honey), xanthan gum (or cornstarch), vanilla, lemon juice and zest.
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.
When the crust is chilled, line a baking sheet with parchment paper and roll out the dough into a large circle about 1/4 inch thick,
Spread the dough with strawberry jam, leaving a 3-inch border around the edge. Arrange the cut strawberries over the dough in an even layer, mounding up slightly in the center.
Fold edges of dough up and over fruit, pleating as needed and being careful that folded edge of dough doesn’t tear (if it does, patch with dough scraps and pinch to seal).
Brush the edges of the dough with beaten egg or milk and and sprinkle the crust with some coarse brown sugar (if desired). Place galette in the fridge to cool and firm up for about 15 minutes.
Place galette in oven and reduce heat to 375°. Bake, rotating halfway through, until crust is golden brown, berries are softened, and juices are bubbling, 45–50 minutes.
Remove from the oven and let cool 1-2 hours before serving.
Garnish with fresh mint leaves, vanilla ice cream or fresh whipped cream.

Notes

You can use any berries you like or a combination of your favs to make it your own. Swap out the strawberry jam if you like to add another layer of flavor, like blueberry or raspberry jam. Serve topped with vanilla ice cream or fresh whipped cream for the ultimate Summer berry dessert. Maybe throw a few chopped pistachios or slivered almonds on top too for extra crunch.

I've also provided options for making this #lowcarb and/or #glutenfree in the recipe (swapping out Stevia, Swerve Brown Sugar and Nectevia agave nectar for honey or sugar, using sugar-free jam, and swapping xanthan gum for cornstarch, and low-sugar or sugar-free whipped cream or #keto ice cream.

Schema/Recipe SEO Data Markup by Yummly Rich Recipes

https://www.theartfulgourmet.com/2020/07/new-post-strawberry-jam-galette/

——

links to more #July4 recipes

Coffee Marinated Grilled Steak

Best Deviled Eggs Ever

Crazy Good Lobster Rolls

French Herbed Potato Salad

——

other berry dessert recipes you may enjoy

Any Berry Galette

Berry Galette

Triple Berry Galette

June 10, 2020September 26, 2020

Things I Love {June 2020}

Welcome to my June 2020 edition of Things I Love! A collection of my current obsessions and things I’m crushing on right now that are downright awesome and amazing and worth a shoutout. June is one of my favorite months and for good reason! Grilling season, fresh produce from the farmer’s markets, trips to the lake, beaches and parks, picnics, long walks, al fresco dining, seafood, fresh salads, outdoor concerts, sunsets and sunrises, and all around relaxation mode on the rise!

So with that said, here are the things I’m eating, watching, traveling to, reading, cooking, and listening to. Stay tuned for next month’s Summer Edition for July + August!

What to eat right now

Halloumi Salad

Refreshingly Light Get-In-My-Bikini Crab Salad

Chicago Style Chicken Dogs

Rustic Pizza with Ham, Grapes, Honey, Shallots + Thyme

White Peach, Prosciutto + Mozzarella Salad

Balsamic Roasted Tomato Basil Ricotta Pasta

Classic Lobster Rolls

Shrimp Scampi Pasta

Watermelon, Tomato + Feta Salad

Cheeseburger Salad with Sriracha Ranch Dressing

Citrus Herb Grilled Shrimp

Honey Soy Grilled Pork Chops

Summer Veggie Zucchini Frittata

Sangria Chicken with Mango Salsa

Caprese Zoodles

Summer Peach Raspberry Almond Vanilla Cream Tart

Spring + Summer Cocktails

What I’m Reading

That Photo Makes Me Hungry, Andrew Scrivani

Andrew Scrivani, food photographer for the New York Times, is one of the most respected names in the business. He’s also a teacher of the craft, advising #foodporn obsessives, bloggers, photographers ready for the next step, and anyone who loves to shoot and eat.

The Dirty Lazy Keto Cookbook

After losing 140 pounds, bestselling author Stephanie Laska shares her unconventional weight loss secrets and 100 easy, accessible recipes so you too can experience the fun behind the keto lifestyle with lots of humor and zero judgement.

Rocco’s Keto Comfort Food Diet Cookbook

Rocco DiSpirito has made a career out of transforming people’s lives without sacrificing taste. Now, Rocco tackles the ketogenic diet with the most effective and delicious version of the diet to date. Using a four-tier program that can deliver up to a pound a day of weight loss, the diet incorporates meal plans and more than eighty of America’s favorite comfort food recipes made over to adhere to keto diet guidelines. You can lose the weight eating the foods you love.

Outlander Book Series, Diana Galbadon

Scottish Highlands, 1945. Claire Randall, a former British combat nurse, is just back from the war and reunited with her husband on a second honeymoon when she walks through a standing stone in one of the ancient circles that dot the British Isles. Suddenly she is a Sassenach—an “outlander”—in a Scotland torn by war and raiding clans in the year of Our Lord . . . 1743. Claire is catapulted into the intrigues of a world that threatens her life, and may shatter her heart. Marooned amid danger, passion, and violence, her only chance of safety lies in Jamie Fraser, a gallant young Scots warrior. What begins in compulsion becomes urgent need, and Claire finds herself torn between two very different men, in two irreconcilable lives.

What I’m Watching/Listening to

Little Fires Everywhere, Hulu

Starring Reese Witherspoon and Kerry Washington, Little Fires Everywhere follows the intertwined fates of the picture-perfect Richardson family and an enigmatic mother and daughter who upend their lives. Based on Celeste Ng’s 2017 bestseller, the story explores the weight of secrets, the nature of art and identity, the ferocious pull of motherhood – and the danger in believing that following the rules can avert disaster.

Check out some Hulu promos and discounts here

Outlander, Starz

Based on the books mentioned above, this hit series on Starz is my new obsession! A gorgeous love story set in the Scottish Highlands between Jamie and Claire Fraser when she travels in time back to 1743 and they fall in love while fighting their way through Scotland against the British, then on to France, the Caribbean and finally the American colonies for a new life together. What an adventure! Beautiful scenery, music, visuals, action, romance and drama all bundled into the best show I’ve ever seen in my life. I have to admit I kinda have a slight *girlcrush* on Caitriona Balfe who plays Claire…and Sam Heughan!?? Need I say more? GORGEOUSNESS all around.

The Last Kingdom, Netflix

Set in the Middle Ages circa 900s, the great (and GORGEOUS HUNKY Alexander Dreymon starring as the lead warrior Uhtred (living and fighting the Vikings as both a Saxon and a Dane) trying to regain his born right title as King of Bebbanburg, England while under oath King Alfred. Full of action, history, amazing costumes, and drama.

I Know This Much Is True, HBO

Based on the bestselling novel by Wally Lamb, written and directed by Derek Cianfrance, and starring Mark Ruffalo, this limited series follows Dominick Birdsey as he struggles to care for his twin brother, Thomas, while discovering the truth about his own family history. Sad, touching and tense drama.

Run, HBO

Written and produced by Vicky Jones, half-hour comedy series RUN follows a woman whose humdrum life is thrown upside down when she receives a text from her college sweetheart inviting her to drop everything and meet him in New York to fulfill the pact they made 17 years previously. Quirky, witty and fun.

Versailles, Netflix

A thrilling historical drama about King Louis XIV of France when he commissions his lavish palace of Versailles that becomes a fierce battleground for love and politics — and a gilded prison for nobility. Plenty of plot twists and drama, romance and scenery to keep you occupied through the quarantine wishing for a charmed and privileged court life lived during this opulent Renaissance period.

Mansfield Park, Amazon Prime

A lovely 1800s period drama set in England based on Jane Austen’s novel about a humble, poor Fanny Price who is shipped off to stay at her rich Aunt’s estate, Mansfield Park where she finds love and the secrets of the upper class.

Where I’ve Been / Where I’m Going / What I’m Eating

Green Lakes State Park, Syracuse NY

A beautiful park set south of Syracuse in Upstate NY Green Lakes is where I spent Memorial Day Weekend with my family and friends. The lake has stunning bright green aqua blue water surrounded by a 3 mile nature trail and a beach and park for chillin’ and grillin’. Amazing! Check out all my photos and videos from our fun day out here

Highland Park Lilac Festival, Rochester NY

Every year Rochester holds their famous Lilac Festival in Highland Park. The flowers are absolutely gorgeous and smell divine! Unfortunately they didn’t have the full on festival with arts, crafts, music and food due to COVID-19 but we definitely took the time to stop and smell the lilacs.

Beattie Beach, NY

I discovered this lovely little beach and park last weekend while taking a drive along Lake Ontario with my niece. The park had super pretty blue water and crashing waves along the beach and it was the perfect way to spend a Sunday afternoon. Peaceful vibes all around.

Belhurst Castle + Winery, Geneva NY

Located in the heart of the Finger Lakes in Geneva NY lies this stunning and romantic castle surrounded by its wine vineyards. They have three hotels to stay for a short or long visit, a spa, two restaurants, wine, cider and craft beer tastings. I have not been to visit yet but this place is definitely on my bucket list of places to go and see this Summer! They’re also having some cool specials offers for Spring and Summer – 30% off on all 3 hotels and buy two get one free wines! Check them out here

A few more things I love – here, there, and everywhere

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

REDD Restaurant, Rochester NY – This stunning Wine Country based restaurant is the brainchild of Richard Reddington, a Rochester native and James Beard award winning Chef. They have a great wine list, signature cocktails and delicious farm to table food such as pizzas, salads, pastas, house-made baked goods and more.

New York Beer Project, Victor NY – Designed to recreate the most famous Beer Hall in NYC circa 1870 known as The Atlantic Garden, this glorious space celebrates American craftsmanship at its finest. They have a gastropub, craft cocktails, brunch, a rooftop terrace and loft, a beer garden and taproom all under one roof. Their menu is a celebration of food and drink from all over NY state from Buffalo, to Albany to Long Island to NYC..and they have special beer and food pairing menus created by their culinary team and master brewer Jason Crosset to sample the best flavors together while dining and drinking.

Parkleigh Pharmacy, Rochester NY – all the goods from soaps and candles to clothes, to food and coffee, jewelry, quirky gifts and more. Best store ever.

Botiki, Gulfport FL – another one of my fav gift shops in St Pete FL..stunning jewelry, clothes, gifts, soaps, candles etc.

September 27, 2018October 19, 2023

Fig, Almond + Orange Vanilla Tart

So Fall is here – I know, I know, aren’t we all excited?! It’s definitely been a super hot Summer and I am in full baking and cooking mode with some new Fall recipes up my sleeve!

I was invited to participate in the Keystone Pantry Allulose Blogger Recipe Challenge this year and decided to make a lovely Fig, Almond and Orange Vanilla Tart. It’s probably the most delightful thing I have ever made, tasted or set my eyes upon – why?

Because, FIGS. Fresh ones. Nestled into a silky mascarpone and vanilla almond layer of creamy goodness with a hint of orange, spread on top of crunchy, light, buttery puff pastry. And topped with a few dollops and drizzles of orange fig jam and crushed almonds just to make life and this tart that much sweeter. (no pun intended)

The good news is, the pastry cream is lower in sugar and calories because I substituted Allulose in place of honey and regular table sugar. Allulose is a rare natural sugar found in very small quantities in dates, dried figs, raisins and wheat, and also in other brown caramelized products such as caramel sauce, maple syrup and brown sugar. It has the same chemical formula as fructose but because it isn’t metabolized by the body, it does not raise blood sugar or insulin levels (and studies show it can reduce blood sugar levels!) and has zero net carbs and only 21 calories per teaspoon.

It provides a taste and texture similar to sugar, and doesn’t have a bitter aftertaste like most non-sugar sweeteners. But, you will need to use a little more than regular sugar because it isn’t as sweet. It does have the same volume and browning characteristics as white sugar when used in baking, but browns faster than regular sugar so it may require a slightly lower temperature when cooking with it. It also comes in powdered/crystalline forms or as a liquid syrup.

This recipe could absolutely be made with any other fruit you like that’s in season – maybe plums? or apricots? or berries? But there’s something so good about the sweet and tart figs mixed with the almond, vanilla and orange flavors that make this a harmonious dessert, perfect for brunch or to top off a weeknight Fall dinner.

First, defrost your puff pastry (if frozen, I use Dufour brand which is super light and crispy and buttery and delicious) and roll it out into a 9×13 inch rectangle (or any shape you like but about 1/2 inch thick). Sprinkle with a little flour on both sides on a silicone mat or parchment paper. Then score an edge around the pastry (or roll it over to create a rustic looking edge), and brush the edges with an egg white and water mixture to give the crust a lovely sheen. Bake the pastry for about 20-25 minutes at 400 and let it cool on a wire baking rack while you make the Almond Vanilla Cream.

Mix all the ingredients (mascarpone cheese, almond paste, Allulose, agave, orange flower water and vanilla) in the bowl of a food processor,

until the mixture is blended smooth and creamy.

Spread the Vanilla Almond Cream on the baked puff pastry evenly with a spatula.

Top the pastry with quartered fresh figs,

a few drizzles and dollops of orange fig jam, and crushed almonds. Cut into squares and serve immediately.

Devour. Repeat.

Fig, Almond + Vanilla Orange Tart

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Yield: Serves 8.

Serving Size: 1 square slice (1/8 of tart)

A gorgeous Fall dessert made with puff pastry, fresh figs, almonds layered in a vanilla orange almond pastry cream made with Keystone Pantry Allulose, for a lighter and less sweet treat.

Ingredients

1 sheet of puff pastry (if frozen - defrosted, Dufour brand)
3 1/2 ounces almond paste, cut into small pieces
2/3 cup mascarpone cheese
2 tablespoons Keystone Pantry Allulose
1 tablespoon agave syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon orange flower water
7-8 fresh figs (quartered, stems removed)
4 tablespoons orange fig jam, for garnish
1/2 cup crushed almonds, for garnish

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
Unwrap defrosted puff pastry sheet on a floured surface. Unfold, remove inner parchment papers and dust both sides lightly with flour.
Score a 1-inch border on inner edges of pastry sheet or roll edges in to create a border. Brush border with egg wash and prick holes in the center of the pastry sheet with a fork. Place on a silicone mat on a baking sheet (or parchment paper).
Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and flaky. Let cool on a wire rack to the side while you make your pastry cream.
In the bowl of a food processor, add all the ingredients (almond paste, mascarpone, Allulose, agave, vanilla, orange flower water) and blitz on high for about a minute or so. Scrape the sides and process again, until the mixture is blended well and creamy.
With a spatula, spread a generous amount of the pastry cream on the cooled puff pastry.
Top with fresh quartered figs in a rustic pattern on top of the cream.
Dollop or drizzle the orange fig jam on top of the figs. Top with crushed (or sliced) almonds.
Serve immediately.

Notes

You can also substitute other fruit to top this tart with (berries, apricots, plums,). Delicious for brunch or a weeknight dinner dessert.

https://www.theartfulgourmet.com/2018/09/fig-almond-orange-vanilla-tart/

For more inspiration and information about Allulose, check out Lang’s Chocolate and Keystone Pantry products on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest. #Keystonepantry #Alluloserecipe

February 12, 2018September 3, 2022

Blood Orange Olive Oil Cake w/ Strawberry Balsamic Chocolate Sauce

It’s that love-ly time of year again folks, when love is in the air and a romantic dinner and evening in with your significant other is on the menu. And we all know what Valentine’s Day is all about…wine, chocolate, strawberries and a special sweet dessert!

I created this recipe for a Blood Orange Olive Oil Cake with Strawberry Chocolate Balsamic Sauce that will impress your sweetie and top off a romantic dinner along with a glass of champagne..hope you enjoy and indulge on this special day 😉

Blood Orange Olive Oil Cake w/ Strawberry Balsamic Chocolate Sauce

Yield: 4-6

A LOVELY dessert made with Blood Orange olive oil and Chocolate Balsamic Vinegar and fresh strawberries and LOTS OF LOVE <3

Ingredients

BLOOD ORANGE OLIVE OIL CAKE:
1 tablespoon butter, for greasing pan
¼ cup sugar
2 eggs
1/3 cup Seven Barrels Blood Orange Olive Oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Juice from 1 blood orange
1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
CHOCOLATE BALSAMIC STRAWBERRY SAUCE:
½ cup Seven Barrels Chocolate Balsamic Vinegar
1 cup chocolate syrup
1 pint strawberries, stemmed and sliced

Instructions

BLOOD ORANGE OLIVE OIL CAKE:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a 9-inch round cake pan or 8-inch loaf pan with butter.
In a stand mixer or large bowl with hand mixer, mix together the sugar and eggs on medium speed until lightly blended.
Drizzle in the Seven Barrels Blood Orange olive oil and vanilla and mix together until smooth. Add the blood orange juice in and mix into the batter.
Sift the flour into a mixing bowl and add baking powder, soda and salt. Add to the wet batter in small increments and mix on low to incorporate. Scrape the sides with a spatula and make sure all wet and dry ingredients are blended well.
Pour the batter into the cake pan and bake for 25-30 minutes. Let the cake cool on a wire rack for 5 minutes or so, then remove cake from the pan and let cool completely on the wire rack before serving.
CHOCOLATE BALSAMIC STRAWBERRY SAUCE:
Add the Seven Barrels Chocolate Balsamic vinegar and chocolate syrup to a medium saucepan over medium-low heat and cook for about 5 minutes until heated through and blended.
Add the sliced strawberries to the chocolate sauce and mix together. Serve the sauce warm over Blood Orange Olive Oil cake or over ice cream.

https://www.theartfulgourmet.com/2018/02/blood-orange-olive-oil-cake-w-strawberry-balsamic-chocolate-sauce/

You can find the Blood Orange Olive Oil and Chocolate Balsamic Vinegar at www.7barrels.com

May 29, 2017October 9, 2022

Happy Memorial Day! Grilling, Cocktails + Recipes

Happy Memorial Day! A time to reflect all of those brave soldiers and military servicemen and women who have sacrificed their lives and families for the safety of ours. Big applause and respect goes out to them and I’m grateful we have a safe and secure country to live in because of them. Especially now.

In honor of the holiday, I rounded up a few of my favorite recipes to celebrate. Wishing you all a lovely holiday, hopefully filled with family and friends, food and drinks with grateful hearts to our heroes that keep us safe. EVERY DAY. XO

Spicy Dr. Pepper Ribs

Beach BBQ Burgers

Thai BBQ Shrimp

Grilled Sambal Chicken Skewers

Lobster and Potato Chip Rolls

Coffee Marinated Steak

Grilled Corn and Poblano Chile Salad

Watermelon Feta & Mint Salad

Roasted Garlic Potato Salad

Summer Berry Shortcake

Hope you enjoy the weekend and here’s a few more links to Memorial Day recipes and menu ideas!

http://chicago.cbslocal.com/2017/05/26/memorial-day-recipe-guide/

http://www.foxnews.com/food-drink/2017/05/29/memorial-day-weekend-barbecue-recipes-best-dishes-for-summer-cookout.html

http://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/holiday—celebration-recipes/memorial-day-recipes

http://www.foodnetwork.com/holidays-and-parties/packages/memorial-day/memorial-day-picnic-

December 24, 2016March 15, 2023

Happy Holidays! A few of my favorite holiday recipes

Well the holidays have finally arrived – my favorite time of year! I love having some time to rest and relax and enjoy quality time with friends and family, especially around the table sharing delicious food and wine. So to celebrate the season, I’ve rounded up some of my favorite holiday recipes that I’ve created over the years – either for myself or a few of my clients (KitchenAid, Colavita and Seven Barrels), that I wanted to share with all of you. From appetizers, to salads, to desserts, entrees and cocktails, they all have that special magic touch perfect for the holidays.

I’d love to hear in the comments below what some your favorite holiday recipes are too – feel free to post them and share a link below, and if you want to share my recipes online please include a link back to my site and credit to Kristen Hess / The Artful Gourmet and @artfulgourmet on social media (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and Tumblr).

Wishing you all a Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah and a joyous and prosperous New Year 2017!

Blood Orange Olive Oil Cake with Strawberry Chocolate Sauce

Pear and Pumpkin Tart

Mini Sweet and Savory Holiday Tarts

Roasted Squash Salad with Spiced Pecans

Holiday Brunch Strata

Almond Shortbread Cookies with Blood Orange Glaze

Hot Parmesan Artichoke Dip with Homemade Pita Chips

Maple Brown Sugar Walnut Pie

Braised Swedish Meatballs

Three Cheese Butternut Squash Tart with Bacon

Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies

Truffled 3-Cheese Pasta with Pancetta and Garlic

Holiday Cocktail Party! Appetizer and Cocktail recipes

Sweet and Spicy Asian Chicken Bites

Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, Shallots and Balsamic

Spinach Salad with Blood Orange Vinaigrette

Chocolate Chipotle Braised Short Ribs

December 9, 2016March 6, 2020

Great Read: PAIRED – Champagne and Sparkling Wines Cookbook

PAIRED Champagne and Sparkling Wines is a gorgeous cookbook by Australian Photographer Fran Flynn and Wine Expert David Stevens-Castro. The book is filled with tons of information on champagne and sparkling wines and how to pair food and recipes accordingly.

They break up the book into different sections based on the different types of wines (Champagne, Cava, Prosecco, New World Sparkling Wines, etc.) with a background on how the wines are made, from what regions, the differences between them which make it easy to understand.

Champagne, Prosecco, Cava, and New World Sparkling Wines all have different fermenting processes from different regions (France, Italy, Spain, Australia, New Zealand) with varying bubble sizes, flavors and characteristics which is absolutely fascinating! They review the wines at a glance describing the different classifications of sparkling wine, what grapes are used, flavors and types of wine. Then they go into more detail with each type of wine suggesting cheeses and recipes that pair well with each based on their flavors.

The food photography by Fran is absolutely gorgeous and mouthwatering, and the way they match the recipes to the different types of sparkling wines is brilliant and well thought out based on matching and balancing flavors of the food with the qualities of the champagne and sparkling wines (sweet paired with sweet, salty paired with sweet, reds vs. roses vs. whites, spicy paired with Asian, tangy paired with dry, etc.)

There are delicious recipes for cheese and charcuterie boards, appetizers, main dishes, salads and desserts, and I love how they also created specialty tasting menus at the end to help the reader plan a party pairing different wines with different foods for a unique experience – Light and Luxurious Lunch, Rich and Decadent dinner, All that Sparkles, Distinct Pleasures and Latino Influenced.

I highly recommend this book for anyone interested in learning more about Champagne and Sparkling Wines and to refer to it for their next tasting adventure and party or gathering with family and friends. And it’s perfect for the holidays where bubbles are celebrated and enjoyed the most!

Get the book online here

August 11, 2016December 2, 2017

{Things I Love} :: Summer 2016

My {Things I Love} list is back for Summer 2016 with some fun and interesting objets de desir, places, people, books, recipes, photography, food and drinks that I’m currently crushing on – not necessarily ordered in terms of my favorite – but are all worthy of a huge shoutout for their awesomeness in my opinion. Something that I love but could not add to the list, is playing videogames and using ELO BOOSTING services, but anyways, here’s the list, until next time, Happy End of Summer, and Bon Appetit!

Fresh Fish Cookbook

Jennifer Trainer Thompson‘s new cookbook has gorgeous photography, amazing seafood recipes and great stories of her living along the New England coast, all the while demystifying how to cook fish simply and deliciously. You’ll find recipes for soups and chowders, shellfish, fish entrees, side dishes, desserts and beachy cocktails for your next Summer seaside feast.

Jennifer is the author of over 20 books, a self-professed hot sauce maker and chicken chaser, and author of the blog Jump Up and Kiss Me, where you can find more of her food stories and recipes.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

https://www.amazon.com/Fresh-Fish-Fearless-Grilling-Shucking/dp/1612123376

Coconut and Rose Petal Ice Cream w/ Cardamom Crumble

Not only is this a beautiful Summer dessert, it’s vegan, made with coconut milk and vanilla, fresh rose petals and a cardamom and oats crumble topping. A dream come true.

Linda Lomelinos of Call Me Cupcake Blog

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Ken & Cook NYC

It’s currently #NYCRestaurantWeek, and we all know what that means. Bingeing on some of the most delicious food and drinks in NYC, without guilt of course, at $42 per person for dinner and $29 per person for lunch including appetizers, entree and dessert. I recently visited Ken and Cook with a friend for dinner the other night and I had a glorious feast of Ahi Poke Tuna, Seafood Ceviche, Filet Mignon with Basil Pesto Mashed Potatoes with a Chocolate Lava Cake w/ Salted Caramel Ice Cream and Tiramisu for dessert. With unlimited Prosecco on the house, at that. The atmosphere was lovely, the staff super attentive and gracious. In a great location in SoHo on Kenmore Street at the best table in the house. Must try – 100% delicious!

http://www.kenandcook.com

Nora Luther Food Photography

Being a food stylist and photographer myself, of course I’m obsessed with all things food photography. I discovered Art Director Nora Luther’s food photos from another food blog I visit frequently and was blown away by her photos of food literally flying in the air. So creative and very cool way to present food in a unique way.

Blackberry Chocolate Italian Tart with Coffee Creme Fraiche

OK. I absolutely love fruit tarts in the Summer. But blackberries and chocolate in a whole grain coconut flour crust? Topped with coffee infused creme fraiche? And what a gorgeous presentation at that, by Valentina of Hortus food blog. yes, please.

Pereg Gourmet Alternative Flours

We all know that gluten-free is all the rage, and Pereg Gourmet just launched a new line of alternative flours this year to give consumers more cooking and baking options for gluten-free diets. They have 6 new varieties including Almond flour, Banana flour, Buckwheat flour, Chickpea flour, Coconut flour and Farro flour. All are gluten free except for the Farro, and are 100% natural, non-dairy and certified kosher. I was fortunate enough to get some samples myself, so it’s time to experiment with some fun recipes for Fall – hmmm, I’m thinking pizza, tarts and pies, homemade pasta..let’s see what I can come up with – stay tuned!

Fried Chicken and Gravy Poutine

O.M.G. – 5 words: fried chicken. gravy. fries. cheese curds. BACON. #yum

http://realfoodbydad.com/fried-chicken-and-gravy-poutine/

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

The Capital Grille #GenerousPour Summer Promo

My friends and I visited The Capital Grille the other night on 42nd St in NYC to take advantage of NY Restaurant Week (yes, once again!) and to partake in their #GenerousPour Summer promo. For only $28, were able to taste a variety of 3 whites and 3 reds, handpicked by The Capital Grille to accompany our dinner menu. We had the Clam Chowder (super good!), Dry Aged NY Strip and Grilled Shrimp, Beef Tournados, and Pan-Seared Salmon (all amazing!) with Green Beans and Mashed Potatoes (to. die. for.) and an amazing Creme Brûlée (my favorite!!) for dessert.

My favorite wines were the Provenance Sauvignon Blanc from Napa CA, and the Beaulieu Vineyards Tapestry Cabernet (a bordeaux blend), also from Napa. We managed to stay for a few hours with full bellies and lots of generously poured vino and escaped for less than $100 each, including tip. Now that’s a delicious steal.

http://www.thecapitalgrille.com/events/the-generous-pour-wine-tasting

Peach Burrata Salad

This fresh summer salad is the perfect recipe for a light lunch or side dish for dinner. The saltiness of the prosciutto with the subtle heat of the red onion and the creaminess of the burrata is a seriously magical combination. And it’s stunning to look at too, is it not? I’m thinking a side of sparkling rose would just top it off beautifully.

http://www.designlovefest.com/2016/08/peach-and-burrata-salad/

French Country Cooking Cookbook

Another lovely cookbook from one of my favorite food bloggers, Mimi Thorisson of Manger. Filled with gorgeous as ever French styling and recipes and photos that will make your mouth water and wish you too were living in the countryside of France. Available Oct 25, and for pre-order on Amazon and Barnes and Noble online…can’t wait to get my hands on it!

Lobster Tails with Mojo de Ajo & Grilled Corn Salsa

I love anything grilled, and this recipe absolutely screams Summer. Grilled lobster tails with garlic, chipotle, cilantro and lime marinade and a side of grilled corn salsa with more spicy flavors like jalapeño, onions, and basil. Sounds divine. Must make tonight.

http://www.upcloseandtasty.com/blog/2014/july/lobster-tails-with-grilled-corn-salsa

4 Cheese Caprese Mac and Cheese

O.M.G. Pasta. Heirloom tomatoes and basil. All baked into a bubbly pot with 4 melty cheeses – cheddar, havarti, mozzarella and brie. Tieghan from Half Baked Harvest does it again. Gorgeous and delicious as always.

July 19, 2016November 5, 2020

Peach Raspberry Melba No-Bake Cheesecake

Summertime is finally here, and it’s my favorite time of year. I love cooking for parties and potlucks, but in the summertime it’s definitely no fun to be stuck in a hot kitchen! Therefore, I’ve decided to make a Peach Raspberry Melba No-Bake Cheesecake. It’s super delicious, easy to make, and requires no hot oven whatsoever, especially with the help of all my amazing KitchenAid® appliances.

I prepared my graham cracker crust in my KitchenAid 14-Cup Food Processor which crushes and mixes them into crumbs in seconds!

Next I made my cheesecake filling in my amazing Artisan Stand Mixer which is the best way to beat cream cheese and sugar together into a light and fluffy and delicious no-bake filling, so make sure you get the VonShef 1260W Black Food Stand Mixer to bake all your delicious treats!

I love my new Springform pan that I used to make the cheesecake in,

and I got a super cool electric kettle that I used to poach the peaches with.

You’re going to love this chilled creamy cheesecake with vanilla poached peaches and a homemade raspberry sauce. It’s so refreshing and is simply the perfect dessert for the summertime months! This is such an easy dessert recipe that requires no hot oven, and I’m so excited for you to try this recipe for yourself. Get as creative as you want with the no-bake cheesecake base and toppings, and just have fun with it!

You could substitute blackberries or blueberries for the sauce, switch up your cream cheese flavors (I used half regular and half peach flavored cream cheese for the filling), add some spices or chocolate powder to your graham cracker crust (or try Oreos, vanilla wafers or chocolate grahams!) or try poaching some other stone fruit such as nectarines or plums..the possibilities are endless!

And when you have all these amazing KitchenAid tools to help you make it, it makes the cooking easier and more fun! Be sure to share your take on this Peach Raspberry Melba No-Bake Cheesecake recipe with us on Instagram using #MadeWithKitchenAid for a chance to be featured.

CLICK HERE FOR STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS AND MY RECIPE ON THE KITCHENTHUSIAST BLOG!

February 20, 2016March 6, 2020

Almond Shortbread Cookies w/ Blood Orange Glaze

So February is here and so is National Almond Day! I absolutely love almonds – not only are they packed with tons of vitamins, minerals and fiber, but they also taste amazing! I love toasting almonds for salad toppings, making almond crust for chicken or fish, and best of all baking them into lovely, nutty, scrumptious desserts…especially cookies..mmmmm.

I recently got a new KitchenAid® 12″ Convection Digital Countertop Oven, and I am absolutely in love with it! Not only is it a toaster oven, but it’s also a fully functioning convection oven with nine different pre-programmed functions, including Pizza, Bagel, Cookie, Asado Roast and Keep Warm. It has a large capacity with enough room to roast a chicken or make a 12″ pizza, and of course enough space to bake a large batch of cookies. I LOVE THIS THING!

Since we are in the dead of winter and in the spirit of National Almond Day, I thought a big batch of cookies was in order. I made some delicious Almond Shortbread Cookies with Blood Orange Glaze. They’re super buttery and crisp with a sweet, tart and refreshing hint of blood orange – perfect for a chilly day with a cup of tea. And they’re really easy to make too..check out the link below for my recipe on the Kitchenthusiast food blog and enjoy!!!

CLICK HERE TO GET THE RECIPE AND STEP-BY-STEP PHOTOS ON THE KITCHENAID BLOG