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Italian-Style Asparagus Spears: Baked or Fried

This Southern Italian-Sicilian recipe for fresh asparagus can be served as a side dish or a snack, either hot or at room temperature. A light batter of Parmigiano or Pecorino Romano cheese, garlic, bread crumb, chopped Italian parsley and egg turn fresh asparagus into a special treat that Italians, and my family, devour in a …

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Afternoon Tea Party at Home with Cucumber Sandwiches & Snacks

High teas and afternoon teas are great, but they can be a bit on the formal side. A casual afternoon tea with snacks and games can be a great alternative. Throwing your own party means you can control the budget, select your favorite finger food and enjoy a creative activity if so desired. We have …

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Persian Saffron Rice Pudding Flavored with Rosewater

Persian saffron rice pudding makes a scrumptious springtime dessert, often enjoyed for Ramadan or Easter. In this recipe, traditional Persian spices of cardamom, cinnamon and saffron pair with sweet rice for the classic rice pudding dessert. Rose water is also added, which gives it a floral hint that is quite unique. Jump to: RECIPE | …

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Italian Orange Cardamom Olive Oil Cake Drizzled with Orange Glaze

This Southern Italian olive oil cake recipe is enhanced with fresh oranges, Grand Marnier, and cardamom spice. Easy to make in one bowl with a whisk, this cake is not-too-sweet, and very aromatic. It is enjoyed by Italians for breakfast, a mid-afternoon snack, or as a dessert. I especially love it during Easter week as …

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Guide to Using Dried or Canned Beans: + Fagioli Recipe

Dried beans that are cooked well can elevate the flavor of many slow carb recipes, from soups and stews to side dishes, to refried beans. But are they always best for any kind of recipe? There are some types of dishes where the flavor (and texture) shines more when you use dried beans and some …

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Essential Mexican Pantry Ingredients for Celebrations & Fiestas

Mexican cuisine is quite diverse, with many different regional variations of traditional or authentic recipes. However, there are a few key staples that can be found in nearly every Mexican household, especially during the holiday seasons. Below are the essential pantry ingredients that will help you be prepared to take on making most Mexican celebration …

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Holiday Care Packages: 7 Homemade Treats to Send

Have a kid in college or a loved one living abroad? This holiday season, let them know you’re thinking of them by sending a themed holiday care package filled with homemade treats and other goodies. Below, you’ll find 7 festive recipes that ship well. Jump to: Chocolate Cherry Bark | Pumpkin Seed Brittle | Zucchini …

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8 Specialty Martini Drinks For the Holidays

Looking for a nice martini recipe for the holidays, to wow guests at your next party, or just to celebrate Friday night? I’ve got you covered! Have a look at my 8 favorite martini drinks for every occasion. What Exactly is a Martini? Let’s clarify one thing first. Traditionally, a martini is just a mix …

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Peppermint Espresso Martini

Make the holidays extra festive with one of my favorite twists on the classic: a peppermint espresso martini! The perfect boozy pick-me-up to serve after a long family dinner, your guests will love this sweet and minty holiday cocktail. Jump to: RECIPE | Ingredients | Directions Peppermint Espresso Martini Ingredients Espresso martini… but make it …

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New England Apple Cheddar Cheese Rustic Tart (Galette)

This buttery galette dough makes a free-form tart that is not only easy but is crisp and flaky and can be made ahead by several days without drying out. The filling is the popular New England combination of apples and cheddar cheese, along with aromatic Fall spices. A beautiful addition to your Thanksgiving table! Jump …

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Raspberry and Dark Chocolate Chip Cookies: Low Sugar

Raspberries and chocolate is a classic pairing in desserts, and for good reason….the combination is superior in flavor, texture and visual appeal. These raspberry chocolate chip cookies are made with dark chocolate (78%) and minimal sugar so the sweet-tart raspberries and the rich but somewhat bitter chocolate is allowed to shine. Jump to: RECIPE | …

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Easy Swedish Potato Bake for the Holidays (aka Jansson’s Temptation)

This simple potato side dish is a mainstay on the Swedish smorgasbord at Christmastime, where it is referred to as Jansson’s Temptation or Janssons frestelse. It is a rich and creamy comfort food made with potatoes, onions, cream and the secret ingredient of anchovies. Perfect for the holiday table, no matter which country you celebrate …

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Pumpkin Spice Espresso Martini

This fall, cozy up with a warming twist on a classic cocktail. A great little pick-me-up for rainy days, this pumpkin spice espresso martini is the perfect combination of intense espresso, boozy vanilla vodka, and homemade pumpkin spice simple syrup. Jump To: RECIPE | Ingredients | Directions Pumpkin Spice Espresso Martini Ingredients Pumpkin Spice Simple …

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