• candied lemon slices
    Living

    Host a Stress-Free Holiday Party

    The holidays are most definitely here. With less and less time for last-minute preparations, those of us who are hosting parties can benefit from simple ideas to keep things calm and scrumptious. Throughout my recipes and tips, I advocate slowing down to enjoy the results of time spent in the kitchen, as well as the ingredients and processes involved. Savor the act of cooking while you uphold your own food traditions and experiment with creative approaches. Certainly, admiring the magnificent shape of star anise seems easier during the lazy summer, but I still make sure to slow down and enjoy Christmas and New Year’s preparations. Fresh herbs, spiced wine, and…

  • baked salami with whipped ricotta
    Food

    Baked Salami with Whipped Ricotta

    Whether served with the antipasto course or in a sandwich, salami steals the show with a rich flavor that comes from garlic, wine, and spices. On the other end of the spectrum is ricotta, the creamy, mild cheese that plays well with others, finding its way into dips, pasta dishes, and even pancakes. Since I love both, I enjoy making this recipe as a way to highlight the contrasts of two Italian favorites. When baked, the flavor of salami becomes even more robust. Hardening as it cools, it forms the perfect shell for whipped ricotta and a topping of freshly cracked black pepper. Lightly flavored even with the addition of…

  • gingerbread star cookies
    Baking,  Food

    Fruit-Studded Gingerbread Stars

    “Dwell on the beauty of life. Watch the stars, and see yourself running with them.” ― Marcus Aurelius The holiday season isn’t complete without a little gingerbread. This year I decided to liven up my version with the delicious candied oranges and lemons I have become quite addicted to this year. Throw some dried cherries into the cookie dough for another twist, and you have these fruit-studded gingerbread stars. Ingredients 3 cups all-purpose flour 1 tablespoon ground ginger 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon ½ teaspoon ground cardamom ¼ teaspoon ground cloves ½ teaspoon baking soda ¼ teaspoon salt ¾ cup unsalted butter ¾ cup dark brown sugar ⅓ cup molasses 1…

  • candied orange margarita
    Drinks,  Food

    Candied Orange Margarita

    Candied fruit slices are delicious and luxe looking, which makes them perfect for the holidays. Glistening in the pan and sparkly under kitchen lights, they always remind me of ornaments. Enjoy them on their own or as an accompaniment to a slice of cake, but make sure to reserve the syrup left in the pan to make a candied orange margarita. Ingredients Candied Orange Slices 1 unwaxed orange 2 cups water 1 cup sugar Candied Orange Margarita 1 ounce reposado tequila ½ ounce Cointreau ½ ounce candied orange syrup Juice of 1 large lime Salt for rim optional Rows of candied fruit slices drying on racks are quite a sight.…