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Category: Appetizers & Snacks

Pretzel Bites with Beer Cheese

Pretzel Bites with Beer Cheese

pretzels-banner4 teaspoons active dry yeast
1 & 1/4 cups warm water
5 cups flour
1/4 cup white sugar, plus 1 teaspoon
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 & 1/2 teaspoon salt
4 tablespoons butter, melted and divided
1/2 cup baking soda
2 egg whites
Kosher or coarse sea salt, for topping
cooking spray

In a measuring cup dissolve the yeast and 1 teaspoon sugar in warm water. Set aside for 10 minutes. In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine the flour, white and brown sugars, and salt. Pour the water/yeast mixture and 2 tablespoons melted butter into the bowl. Knead for 6-8 minutes until the dough is smooth. Add extra water if dough is too dry, until you get your desired texture. Lightly oil a large bowl. Shape dough into a ball. Place the dough ball in the bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and allow to rise for one hour. Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Spray a large baking sheet with cooking spray. In a large bowl, combine 4 cups of hot water and baking soda. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg whites and remaining 2 tablespoons of melted butter. After the dough has risen, punch down the dough and then knead with hands for one minute. Turn out onto a lightly floured surface and break off small chunks of dough – Roll the chunks into 1 inch diameter balls (I got about 20-25). Dip the pieces in the baking soda water and place on the baking sheet. Gently drying with a paper towel if they become too wet. Brush each pretzel ball with egg whites/melted butter then sprinkle with kosher salt. Bake for 7-8 minutes, until browned.

Beer Cheese

1/2 cup cream cheese
1/2 cup good beer
1 tablespoon horseradish sauce
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 cup Velveeta, cut into small cubes
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Freshly ground black pepper

Place cream cheese in a microwave safe bowl and heat for about 30 seconds. Stir until smooth. Stir in beer, horseradish sauce, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and black pepper. Heat for another 30 seconds in the microwave. Stir until smooth. Add in Velveeta. Heat another 30 seconds, and stir until cheese is melted and smooth.

5 Fast and Fabulous Dips

5 Fast and Fabulous Dips

Stir together a full jar of Thai peanut sauce, a little bit of pancake syrup, a dash of hot pepper sauce, and a squeeze of ketchup. You’ll wind up with a sweet, tangy peanut sauce with a kick!

Mix equal parts mayonnaise and honey-flavored mustard for a great sauce to dip chicken nuggets in.

Begin again with mayonnaise, but this time add a dollup of ketchup, a spoonful of pickle relish, and a dash of hot pepper sauce for a speedy rémoulade. Serve with boiled shrimp or crab cakes.

Start with your favorite bottled Italian salad dressing and squeeze in some fresh lime juice. Add a pinch of sugar and a handful of chopped fresh cilantro. Now it’ll be your favorite Mexican dip.

Don’t forget the classic: a packet of dried onion soup mix and a container of sour cream. A chip couldn’t ask for anything better.

Green Chile Deviled Eggs

Green Chile Deviled Eggs

phpThumb_generated_thumbnail12 eggs
6 tablespoons mayonnaise
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
4 teaspoons chopped canned Hatch green chiles
2 teaspoons freshly squeezed lime juice
2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh cilantro
Kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
Corn salsa for garnish (optional)

Hard-boil the eggs; cool, peel, and halve them; and carefully remove the yolks. Reserve the whites. Combine the egg yolks, mayonnaise, mustard, chiles, lime juice, and cilantro in a medium, nonreactive bowl. Season well with salt and pepper, then mix well until the yolks are broken up and the ingredients are evenly incorporated. Evenly pipe or spoon the yolk mixture into the reserved egg white halves. As desired, top with corn salsa.

Queso Blanco

Queso Blanco

queso1 cup monterey jack cheese or 1 cup asadero cheese or 1 cup chihuahua cheese, shredded fine
4 ounces green chilies
1/4 cup half-and-half
2 tablespoons onions, chopped fine
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 serrano pepper, chopped fine (optional)
1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped fine (optional)

Put all ingredients in a double boiler and heat on medium. Cook until melted and well blended, stirring occasionally. Serve with fresh tostadas or hot flour tortillas.

Italian Deli Crazy Bread

Italian Deli Crazy Bread

9325cdd059a16cd8cbfb2e3020f1a8871 loaf Italian bread

1 C. mayonnaise

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon dried parsley

4-5 basil leaves, chopped

1 teaspoon oregano

1 teaspoon thyme

1 T. pepperoncini brine from the jar

1/4 C. red onion, sliced

1/4 C. pepperoncini pepper slices

Assorted salamis

Sliced provolone

Sliced mozzarella

Sliced Muenster cheese

 

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Slice the bread at 1-inch intervals, but don’t slice all the way through the bottom. Mix the mayo, onion powder, garlic powder, parsley, basil, oregano, thyme, and the pepperoncini brine together. Spread this mixture down in between the sliced parts of the bread. Alternating the cheese varieties, shove a slice of cheese into each cut. Then alternating the salami varieties, shove about five slices into every other cut. Shove the pepperoncini slices and red onion slices into the remaining cuts, meaning the cuts with no salami in it. Wrap the whole thing tightly with foil and bake about 25-30 minutes or until the outsides are a little crispy and the cheese is all melted.

Cranberry Granola Bars

Cranberry Granola Bars

granola bars2 T. olive oil
2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
1 cup sliced almonds
1 cup sweetened flaked coconut
1/4 cup unsalted sunflower seeds
2 T. sesame seeds
3/4 cup pure maple syrup
1/3 cup firmly packed dark brown sugar
2 T. olive oil
¼ teaspoon kosher salt
1 cup dried cranberries

Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly oil a 9 x 13-inch baking pan. Line the bottom of the pan with parchment paper, leaving a 2-inch overhang on two sides. Spread oats, almonds, coconut, sunflower seeds, and sesame seeds on a rimmed baking sheet. Bake, stirring once, until lightly golden, 12 to 15 minutes. Decrease the oven temperature to 300 degrees Fahrenheit. Meanwhile, in a large bowl, combine the syrup, sugar, oil, and salt, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Add the toasted oat mixture and cranberries. Stir to coat. Scrape the mixture into the prepared pan, firmly pressing down in an even layer with a rubber spatula Transfer the pan to the oven and bake until golden brown and set, 25 to 30 minutes. Let cool completely on a wire rack, at least 2 hours. Grabbing the ends of the parchment, lift out the granola and slice into bars. Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

-The Good Neighbor Cook Book

Baked Garlic-Herb Wonton Crisps

Baked Garlic-Herb Wonton Crisps

garlicherbwontoncrisps_n_lg20 item(s) wonton wrapper(s)
2 spray(s) cooking spray
1 tsp. minced garlic
1 T. fresh thyme, fresh, chopped
1 T. rosemary, fresh, chopped

Preheat oven to 425ºF. Coat a baking sheet with cooking spray and place wonton wrappers on sheet in a single layer. Bake for 2 minutes; remove from oven. Flip wrappers; sprinkle with garlic and herbs. Lightly coat wrappers with cooking spray and bake for 2 minutes more. Remove from oven and place wrappers on a wire rack to cool. Yields 5 “crisps” per serving. Notes: You can use any combination of freshly chopped herbs in this recipe such as thyme, parsley, rosemary and/or basil.

Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts

Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts

waterchestnut1/4 cup soy sauce

1/4 cup vegetable oil

2 Tablespoons ketchup

1 Tablespoon vinegar

2 cloves fresh garlic, minced or pressed through garlic press

1/4 teaspoon coarse ground pepper

2 (8 ounce) cans water chestnuts, drained well

1 lb. center cut bacon

1 cup brown sugar

Toothpicks (see note)

In a medium bowl whisk together the soy sauce, vegetable oil, ketchup, vinegar, garlic, and pepper. Add the drained chestnuts and mix to coat. Cover and marinate in fridge at least 4 hours. Preheat oven to 375. Line a jelly roll pan or 9×13 pan with foil or parchment paper and place a metal cooking rack on top or use a broiler pan so that the drippings can fall off. Cut the bacon slices in half or in thirds, depending on how big the bacon is. Drain water chestnuts from marinade. Roll one water chestnut in a piece of bacon, secure w/ toothpick. Roll in brown sugar. Bake 30-40 minutes or until bacon is crisp. Don’t worry if the fat and brown sugar that fall off smoke a little. Note: To prevent toothpicks from burning, soak them in water while the chestnuts are marinating.

Avocado-Bacon Toasts

Avocado-Bacon Toasts

4 s6cc986d68058b29ab55d30d7e7216978lices rustic white or wheat bread
4 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil
8 slices crispy cooked bacon
2 ripe medium avocados, halved and pitted
1 lime, cut into quarters
Coarse salt to taste

Heat the panini maker according to the manufacturer’s directions. Drizzle olive oil over each slice of bread and grill the bread, two slices at a time, until they’re toasted, about 2 minutes. For each toast: Criss-cross two slices of bacon on a slice of grilled bread. Lay an avocado half on top of the bacon and smash it with the back of a spoon to spread it around the toast. Squeeze lime juice over the top and season the avocado with coarse salt to taste.

Marinated Mozzarella with Preserved Lemon and Basil

Marinated Mozzarella with Preserved Lemon and Basil

0941c0c3a335de2b4ca4b2f6f2c98b214 buffalo mozzarella, sliced
2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
30g preserved lemon rind
½ cup (125ml) olive oil
2 tablespoons olive oil, extra
12 basil leaves
Crispy flat bread, to serve

Place the mozzarella, garlic and preserved lemon on a platter and spoon over the oil. Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour or until ready to serve. Heat the extra oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium heat. Cook the basil for 30 seconds or until bright green and crispy. Remove from the pan and drain on absorbent paper. Top the mozzarella with crispy basil leaves and serve with the flatbread. Serves 8.

Cheese and Charcuterie Plate

Cheese and Charcuterie Plate

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Creating your own version is a great opportunity to experiment with different meats and cheeses – ask your cheese monger what varieties complement each other. You could even organize the board thematically – go Spanish with Manchego cheese and Chorizo sausage with Marcona Almonds or if Italy is your inspiration, use chunks of good Parmesan Cheese and slices of Proscuitto with a small bowl of roasted red peppers. I like to serve this meal on a rustic wooden board.

selection of 3 cheeses (one cow, one goat, one sheep), slicing a few servings of each
selection of 3 cured meats (bresaola, soppressata and proscuitto), thinly sliced
olives
tupelo honey
raisin walnut loaf, sliced
baguette, sliced

Artfully arrange meats and cheeses (wedges and slices) on a board or platter. Fill in the gaps with small bowls: one with olives (along with a smaller bowl for the pits) and the other filled with honey. You want the board to look elegant but overflowing with goodness. Place your sliced breads in a basket, bowl or platter nearby.

What Cheeses And Meats Should You Use?

The best cheese and meat boards are diverse — don’t be afraid to experiment. Try to include at least one cheese from each of these predominant category:

1) A fresh cheese (fiore di latte and/or burrata)
2) A soft-ripened cheese (camembert and/or brie)
3) A semi-soft cheese (friulano, havarti and/or gouda)
4) A firm cheese (piave, spillembergo, aged provolone and crotonese)
5) A hard cheese (grana padano and parmigiano reggiano)
6) A veined cheese (gorgonzola and/or stilton)

If you want to add in meats, there should be an array ranging from smoky speck to a cooked item, like mortadella or a bacon-like pancetta. You may also want a cured sausage like salami or aged items like bresaola and especially the renowned prosciutto di parma.

Too Much, Too Little… How Much Should You Buy?

Since the cheese board is likely to be a starter to an abundant meal to follow, a recommended quantity is one to two ounces of cheese and three slices of meat per person. Remember, you’re trying to delight your guests’ palate, but keep their appetites intact for later courses.

What Do I Plate It All On?

Take the time and plate it right since it’s Thanksgiving. Treat the cheeseboard like a centrepiece. Use platters that are both ornate and practical. Food grade wood boards are great; if you have them, marble slabs are the best (flat, rimless and aesthetically pleasing, they’re also easy surfaces for cutting cheese on).

To Cube Or Not To Cube…

The look of wedge-cut cheeses is more authentic and requiring guests to cut cheese to their taste adds an interactive element. Only resort to pre-cut tasting pieces (like cubes) out of necessity.

How Many Knives Do I Need To Use?

Always use separate cheese knives for each cheese. This ensures the distinctive notes of each cheese are kept pure. Regarding meat, there is very little risk of intermingling flavours so a simple fork is fine.

What Else Should I Add To The Board?

Surrounding the board with appropriate accompaniments adds interest and contrasting yet complementary flavours. They also serve as palate cleansers in between cheese samplings and simply enhance all flavours. Notable accompaniments are: dried fruit like apricots and figs; nuts (natural and unflavoured) such as almonds and walnuts; sliced fresh fruit with mild notes like pears (or with a slight tang like apples). Meats are robust in flavour and their pleasantness is heightened by cured olives. The gaeta and cerignola species are marvelous. Also, accompanied meat with fresh fruit, like figs and melon, is divine.

 

What Condiments Should I Add To The Plate?

Condiments, condiments, condiments! Use them. They enhance the flavours of cheeses. The best ones to use include: wine-based jelly; lightly sweetened, concentrated fruit-based jams (pear and fig are ideal); fruit compotes; honey; and, especially, a product from Cremona, Italy, known as mostarda cremonese, which is a condiment made of candied fruit and a mustard-flavoured syrup. Finely sliced meats are best as is; adding the above alters the taste too much.

What Type Of Crackers Should I Use?

As a textural contrast, serve crusty bread, plain crackers, plain breadsticks or plain crostini. Mellow tasting items such as these achieve the texture contrasting element while their subtleness allows the flavour profile of the cheese to be at the forefront and untainted.

When Should I Pull The Platter Together?

Arrange the selected cheeses anywhere between 30 to 60 minutes before guests arrive to bring the cheeses to room temperature and optimum flavour; 15 to 20 minutes ahead is ample for plating the meat.

Now, What Type Of Wine Should I Serve?

Does cheese enhance wine or does wine enhance cheese? Don’t worry about it — just combine the two. Some brilliant pairings to the cheese categories listed above in tip number one are:
1) San Giovese and Pinot Grigio
2) Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir
3) Zinfandel and Riesling
4) Chianti and San Giovese
5) Chianti and Barolo and Brunello
6) Prosecco and Port

Sautéed Feta w/ Piquant Relishes

Sautéed Feta w/ Piquant Relishes

2 pkgs. (8 oz. each) Athenos Feta Cheese
All-purpose flour
Olive oil
1 lemon, optional

Cut the feta into either slices or triangles that are ~1/2″ thick (cut into thirds, so that you have 3 “slabs”, then cut each of those down the center diagonally to get 6 triangles or in half lengthwise to get 6 slices). Pour some flour onto a plate. Dredge each piece of feta in flour, shaking to remove excess and set aside for a moment. Place a large cast-iron (or nonstick) skillet over medium-high heat. Pour on a thin layer of olive oil, and once it is screaming hot, add a few feta pieces to the pan (being careful not to overcrowd) and brown for ~1 minute per side. If using, squeeze a bit of lemon juice over the slices once they are browned and transfer to a serving plate. Spoon a bit of each of the sauces over the cheese to serve.

Sautéed Feta Cheese
Parsley, Raisin, Caper, and Pine Nut Relish

2 T. golden raisins, coarsely chopped
1 T. capers, drained and coarsely chopped
1½ anchovy fillets, finely chopped
1 T. pine nuts, finely chopped
1 garlic clove, minced
1/4 c. Fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped
2 T. extra virgin olive oil
Juice of ½ lemon
Sea salt
Freshly ground black pepper

Combine everything, then season to taste with salt and pepper.
Sundried Tomato, Walnut, Olive, and Oregano Relish

~8 sundried tomatoes, dry pack, coarsely chopped
2 T. kalamata olives
1 T. purple raisins, coarsely chopped
1½ anchovy fillets, finely chopped
2 T. walnuts, finely chopped
1 garlic clove, minced
1 T. fresh oregano, chopped (or 1 tsp. dried)
2 T. extra virgin olive oil
juice of ½ lemon
sea salt
freshly ground black pepper

Combine everything, then season to taste with salt and pepper.

Individual Tiropitas

Individual Tiropitas

Tiropites1/2 lb. feta cheese, crumbled
1/2 lb. cottage cheese, small curd
3 eggs, beaten
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 lb. phyllo dough*, thawed
1/2 lb. unsalted butter, melted

*Phyllo comes in all shapes and sizes these days. The variety I can find, Athens brand, weighs 1 pound and contains two 8-oz bags of 20 sheets each measuring 9 x 14-inches. If your phyllo comes in the larger sheets, cut it in half so that it’s roughly 9 x 14-inches. After you cut it, gently roll it up and place it in a ziploc bag.

Combine cheeses, eggs and salt in a bowl. Stir until blended. Set up your station: you need a large cutting board, a teaspoon (a measuring teaspoon), a brush, the melted butter, a parchment paper-lined baking sheet, and the phyllo dough. If you haven’t already, unwrap the phyllo dough and place it in a ziploc back. Lay one sheet of phyllo horizontally oriented in front of you on your cutting board. Brush it with butter. Run a knife down the piece of dough every two inches or so — this should yield six to seven strips. Place one teaspoon of cheese mixture at the end of each strip. Fold over corner to make a triangle. Continue folding from side to side till you get to the end of the strip.  Place on prepared pan. Brush tops with butter. Repeat process until you’ve used up all of your filling. Preheat oven to 350ºF. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool briefly before serving.

Peppers Stuffed with Feta (Piperies Yemistes me Feta)

Peppers Stuffed with Feta (Piperies Yemistes me Feta)

cq5dam_web_266_2004 small red and green sweet peppers, about 1 1/2 ounces each and 4 inches long
7 ounces feta
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano, optional

Cut the tops off the peppers and carefully remove the seeds, keeping the peppers whole. Crumble the feta and stuff tightly into the peppers, then replace the tops. Heat the olive oil in a skillet and saute the peppers over high heat (propping the peppers up against the sides of the skillet so the filling doesn’t ooze out), gently turning them over, until they are lightly browned on the outside, and the feta is melted a bit but not running out (the hats may fall off, but replace when serving). Serve whole or cut into thick slices, with the oregano crumbled over the top, if desired.

Tomatokeftedes

Tomatokeftedes

DSC_00532 punnets small tomatoes (approximately 400 grams)
½ cup red onions, finely chopped (or spring onions)
¼ cup chopped fresh mint
¼ cup chopped fresh basil
¼ cup chopped fresh continental parsley
1 tsp oregano (you can also use fresh thyme instead)
Sea salt and cracked pepper, to taste
100g plain flour
Extra virgin olive oil, for frying

Rinse the tomatoes well and dry them. Place them in a large bowl and pinch them so that the pulp comes out and you are left with a smooth pulp. Add the onions, mint, basil, parsley, oregano, sea salt, and cracked pepper and mix well. Add the flour gradually until you reach a thick but moist sticky paste. Do not make the paste dry. Pour some olive oil in a large frying pan or wok to a depth of 3cm. When the oil is hot but not smoking, carefully drop in tablespoons of the mixture, and fry, turning once, so that both sides become a light golden colour. These are best served immediately with Greek yoghurt.

Revithokeftedes

Revithokeftedes

th-syntagi-revithokeftedes-kw1/2 kilo chickpeas, preferably without skin
1 big onion or 4 – 5 spring onions, finely cut
1 cup of parsley, finely cut
2 spoonfuls of dried mint or fresh
1/2 teaspoon of oregano
Salt
Pepper
2 eggs (optional)
2 tablespoonful of flour
Extra flour for dredging
Olive oil for frying

Soak the chickpeas in water overnight. Drain, add fresh water and bring to a boil. Skim all the foam that forms with a slotted spoon and then drain. Put them in the pot again and add water and remove any chickpeas skins which will float on the surface. Put them back on the heat and when they boil add salt and simmer until they become soft. This may take 1 – 2 hours depending on the quality of the chickpeas. Drain and mash with a fork. I do not mash them in a food processor as we want some small bits of chickpeas in the patties. Grate the onion or finely cut the spring onions and the parsley, add all the remaining ingredients except the flour for dredging and mix well. Shape them into round patties, dredge them in flour and fry in hot olive oil. Remove on kitchen paper to absorb excess oil and serve as a side dish.

Saganaki with Honey & Sesame

Saganaki with Honey & Sesame

2 T. Honey
4 ½ oz. ¾” thick Kasseri Cheese
1 Egg, lightly Beaten
Flour, for coating
Olive Oil, for frying
1 tsp. black sesame Seeds

Heat honey gently in small saucepot. Keep warm over low heat. Pour oil into a small nonstick skillet to a depth of ½ inch. Put egg in one flat bowl and flour in another. Heat oil over medium high heat until a bread cube dropped in the oil browns in 15 seconds. Dip cheese into the egg, then pat it in flour to coat well. Add to oil and fry until golden on both sides. Spoon / splash oil onto the sides to make sure they are fried golden too. When crisp on the outside and soft in the middle, remove to paper towel to drain. Serve hot, cut up into squares, drizzled with honey and sprinkled with sesame seeds.

Apple & Cheddar Quiche

Apple & Cheddar Quiche

Apple and Cheddar Quiche 2 5002 large apples (cored and cut into bite sized chunks)
1 cup apple cider
4 strips bacon (cut into 1 inch pieces)
6 sheets phyllo (thawed as directed on package)
1/4 cup olive oil
1/2 teaspoon rosemary (chopped)
1 cup strong cheddar (grated)
4 eggs (lightly beaten)
1 cup half and half

Simmer the apple slices in the cider until they just start to turn tender, about 3-5 minutes, remove and set them aside. Simmer the remaining cider to reduce to about 2 tablespoons. Meanwhile, cook the bacon in a pan and set aside. Brush a sheet of phyllo pastry with the olive oil and fit it into the bottom of a greased 9 inch pie dish or springform pan with the ends hanging over the side of the pan and repeat with the remaining sheets placing them on top. Toss the apple slices in the reduced cider and spread them out over the bottom of the pan. Sprinkle the bacon, rosemary and cheddar cheese on top of the apples. Mix the eggs and half and half, pour into the pan and fold the edges of the phyllo dough that is hanging over the sides. Bake in a preheated 375F oven until golden brown and set in the center, about 25-45 minutes.

Sweet and Spicy Roasted Almonds

Sweet and Spicy Roasted Almonds

2 T. chili-infused oil
1 T. sugar
1 tsp kosher salt
2 C blanched whole almonds

Preheat the oven to 350. In a medium bowl, stir the oil, sugar, and salt to blend. Add the almonds, and toss to coat. Arrange the almond mixture on a large, heavy baking sheet, spacing the almonds evenly. Bake, stirring occasionally, until golden brown, about 15 minutes. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Fried Polenta

Fried Polenta

FJIHTJ7HH2VWC9E_LARGE6 C water
2 tsp salt
1 3/4 C yellow cornmeal
3 T. unsalted butter, cut into pieces
1 tsp plus 1/2 C olive oil
1/4 C freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 tsp salt
1 C marinara sauce

In a large, heavy saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Add the salt, then gradually whisk in the cornmeal. Reduce the heat to low and cook, stirring often, until the mixture thickens and the cornmeal is tender, about 15 minutes. Remove from the heat and stir in the butter. Coat an 11×7″ baking dish with 1 tsp. of oil. Transfer the hot polenta to the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly to 3/4″ thick. Cover and refrigerate until cold and firm, about 2 hours. Preheat the oven to 250. Cut the polenta into 2×1″ pieces. In a large, heavy skillet, heat the remaining olive oil over a medium-high flame. Working in batches, fry the polenta pieces until golden brown on all sides, about 3 minutes per side. Using tongs, transfer the polenta pieces to paper towels and drain. Place the polenta pieces on a baking sheet and keep warm in the oven while cooking the remaining batches. Transfer the polenta pieces to a serving platter. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and salt, and serve, with marinara sauce alongside.

Cream Cheese 15 Ways – Add Some Interest to Your Spread

Cream Cheese 15 Ways – Add Some Interest to Your Spread

-Blend 1/4 C store bought pesto with cream cheese. Top it with lightly toasted pine nuts.

-Blend 1/4 C pitted kalamata olives into the cream cheese. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves.

-Blend 1/4 C chopped, oil-packed, sun dried tomatoes into the cream cheese. Sprinkle 1 T. of chopped fresh basil over the top.

-Blend a jar of chopped marinated artichokes into the cream cheese and spread this on pumpernickel or rye bread.

-Drain a small can of tiny shrimp and blend them into the cream cheese. Season with a pinch of ground mace or nutmeg and sprinkle with 1 T. of minced red onion. Spread on bagel chips.

-Blend a can of drained chopped chiles, 1/2 C. of shredded Cheddar cheese, and a pinch of cumin into the cream cheese.

-Blend 2 ounces of smoked trout and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice into the cream cheese. Garnish with 1 T. of chopped fresh parsley.

-Blend 1 clove of garlic that you have crushed in a garlic press, 1 tsp. of herbes de Provence, and a pinch of black pepper into the cream cheese for a homemade Boursin-style cheese.

-Blend 1 small can of deviled ham and 1 tsp. Dijon mustard into the cream cheese.

-Blend 1/4 C. of chopped radishes and some black pepper into the cream cheese.

-Blend 1/4 C. of finely chopped honey-roasted almonds and a dash of hot pepper sauce into the cream cheese.

-Spread the top of the cream cheese with 1/2 C. of chutney. Sprinkle with toasted sliced almonds.

-Cover the cream cheese with 1/2 C. of whole-berry cranberry sauce.

-The classic-spread the top of the cream cheese with 1/2 C. of top-quality pepper jelly. Let it drip down the sides.

Herb Fritters

Herb Fritters

l_R1797511 C. flour

1 tsp. salt

1 large egg, lightly beaten

1 C. cold dark beer

1 C. chopped mixed fresh herbs, such as basil, chives, dill, parsley, rosemary, sage, tarragon and thyme

1/2 C. mayonnaise

Juice and grated peel of 1 lemon

Dash hot pepper sauce

Peanut oil, for frying

 

In a medium bowl, combine the flour and salt. Whisk in the egg and beer until smooth. Stir in the herbs and let stand for 15 minutes. Preheat the oven to 200. Line a baking sheet with paper towels and set aside. In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, lemon juice, lemon peel and hot sauce and set aside. Fill a large, heavy saucepan with enough oil to reach a depth of 3 inches; heat to 365 degrees on a deep-fry thermometer. Whisk the batter and, working in batches, drop by tablespoonful and fry, turning occasionally, until the fritters are crisp and golden, 3-4 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer to the baking sheet; keep warm in the oven. Repeat with the remaining batter. Serve with the lemon sauce.

Cheddar-Stuffed Mushrooms

Cheddar-Stuffed Mushrooms

picrJ7ALU24 large fresh mushrooms, about 2 inches in diameter, cleaned
1/4 C. sliced green onions
1 clove garlic, finely chopped
1/2-3/4 tsp. Tabasco Pepper Sauce
1/4 C. Margarine or Butter
2/3 C. fine dry breadcrumbs
1/2 C. shredded cheddar cheese (about 2 ounces)

Remove stems from mushrooms; reserve caps. Chop enough stems to make 1 cup. Cook and stir chopped stems, green onions, garlic and pepper sauce in butter in large skillet over medium-high heat until tender. Remove from heat; stir in bread crumbs and cheese. Spoon crumb mixture into mushroom caps. Place caps on baking pan. Bake at 425 for 8-10 minutes or until heated through.

Skewered Ribeye Steak Bites with Bloody Mary Dipping Sauce

Skewered Ribeye Steak Bites with Bloody Mary Dipping Sauce

fa7ece74Good quality beef steak; trimmed of excess fat (and gristle & connective tissue if any). Cut meat into 1-inch cubes.

1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons minced yellow or white onion
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1-2 teaspoons hot pepper sauce (Such as Tabasco)
1 cup tomato sauce
1 rounded tablespoon prepared horseradish
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
Optional: 1/2 cup vodka

In a small saucepan, over medium heat sauté onion in olive oil until translucent. If using vodka add it now and allow to simmer until volume reduces by about half. Stir in remaining ingredients, simmer for a minute or two then reduce heat. Taste for seasonings, and adjust if necessary. (Sauce can be served warm or at room temperature.) Cut meat into approximately 1-inch cubes. If you are going to pan sear them, no need to skewer meat, just salt and pepper the meat and cook in a hot pan, turning as the cubes become brown and done to your liking. Place on a warmed platter with skewers and dipping sauce in a small bowl alongside. To grill or broil, cut meat as directed above, skewer meat, salt & pepper and grill/broil until cooked the way you prefer. I place some dipping sauce on a warm plate/platter, arrange the cooked meat on top, with additional sauce on the side. A shower of minced parsley or chives brightens up the dish.

Burrata with Chanterelles, Dill & Browned Butter

Burrata with Chanterelles, Dill & Browned Butter

Burrata with Chanterelles, Dill & Browned Butter

 

1 small burrata

1 baguette (or crostini)

150 g fresh girolles (chanterelles)

1 T. butter + 1 T. oil for frying

1 small garlic clove, finely chopped

50 g salted butter

1/2 lemon

plenty of fresh dill

salt and pepper

 

Remove the burrata from the fridge at least 30 minutes before you need it. Fry the mushrooms in oil an butter. Add the garlic towards the end. Season and put aside. Brown the butter in a medium-sized pan on medium-high heat. Wait for it to foam up a lot and turn brown (but not dark) and smell nutty. Remove from heat. Place the burrata in a shallow bowl or something with an edge. Arrange the girolles around the burrata. Spoon over the browned butter. Squeeze some lemon over the whole thing. Scatter with plenty of chopped dill. Season one last time and serve with bread.

Baked Brie Dip with Sun Dried Tomatoes and Thyme

Baked Brie Dip with Sun Dried Tomatoes and Thyme

Baked Brie Dip with Sun Dried Tomatoes and Thyme2 (8 oz) packages Brie cheese

2 tsp fresh garlic, minced

1 tsp fresh thyme leaves, stripped from strips

1 cup sun dried tomatoes packed in oil, drained well and chopped

1/2 tsp fresh cracked black pepper

French bread crostini or crackers

 

Remove the rind from the Brie.  Cut the Brie into chunks.  Drain the sun dried tomatoes well, and chop into bite sized or small pieces.  Combine the minced garlic, fresh thyme leaves, and sun dried tomatoes. Add in cracked black pepper.    Stir to combine. Layer cheese, then topping in an oven proof casserole or black iron skillet.  Bake for about 20 – 25 minutes.  I gave it a stir about halfway through.   The Brie will get all bubbly and melted, and slightly toasted on top.  Serve hot with French bread crostini or crackers.

Balsamic Glazed Onion Crostini

Balsamic Glazed Onion Crostini

bals1/4 cup Butter
3 large (5 cups) yellow onions, quartered, thinly sliced
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
2 teaspoons sugar
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

1 (about 11-ounce) loaf rustic French baguette, cut into 30 (1/2-inch) slices
1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
1/4 cup balsamic reduction glaze

Balsamic glaze can be found in the glaze or vinegar section of the grocery store. To make balsamic reduction at home, combine 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar and 2 teaspoons sugar in 1-quart saucepan. Cook over medium heat until mixture comes to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low; cook until liquid is reduced by 1/4. Measure desired amount for recipe. Store refrigerated up to 1 week.

Melt butter in 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until sizzling. Stir in onions, salt and pepper; continue cooking, stirring occasionally, 5 minutes or until onions begin to soften. Stir in sugar; cook, stirring occasionally and scraping brown bits off bottom of pan, 20-25 minutes or until onions are golden brown. (Reduce heat, if necessary, to keep from burning.) Stir in parsley; place onion mixture into bowl. Heat oven to 400ºF. Place bread slices onto baking sheet. Divide onion mixture evenly among bread slices. Top each with blue cheese. Bake 5-7 minutes or until bread is toasted and cheese is melted. Place onto serving platter; drizzle with balsamic glaze. Serve immediately.

Parmesan Cauliflower Bites

Parmesan Cauliflower Bites

parmcauli1/2 cup vegetable oil
1 cup Panko
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon Emeril’s Essence Creole Seasoning
4 cups cauliflower florets
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. In a large bowl, combine Panko, Parmesan and Emeril’s Essence; set aside. Working in batches, dredge cauliflower in flour, dip into eggs, then dredge in Panko mixture, pressing to coat. Add cauliflower to the skillet, 5 or 6 at a time, and cook until evenly golden and crispy, about 2-3 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate. Serve immediately.

Savory Salmon & Chèvre Cheesecake

Savory Salmon & Chèvre Cheesecake

½ ounce Parmesan, grated
1 ounce white bread (about 1 slice), quartered
6 ounces shallots, peeled
1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon unsalted butter, divided
1 pound reduced-fat cream cheese, cut into 1-inch pieces, at room temperature
10 ounces chèvre, cut into 1-inch pieces
3 large eggs
1 tablespoon cornstarch
½ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 teaspoons dill weed
2 ounces smoked salmon, diced

In Food Processor fitted with the metal blade, start the machine and add the cheese and bread through the small feed tube. Process until mixture becomes fine crumbs, about 30 seconds; remove and reserve. Place shallots in the work bowl; pulse until finely chopped. Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a 10-inch skillet over medium heat. Cook chopped shallots until softened, 3 to 4 minutes; reduce heat to low and cook until golden and caramelized, about 20 to 25 minutes. Let cool. Coat a 6-inch springform pan with the remaining 1 teaspoon butter; dust with breadcrumbs / cheese mixture to coat. Place cream cheese and chèvre in a medium bowl. Using a hand mixer, mix on low speed until smooth. Add eggs, cornstarch, salt, pepper and dill weed. Transfer the cream cheese mixture to the prepared springform pan. Top cream cheese mixture with diced smoked salmon and cooled caramelized shallots. Wrap the outside of the pan with a sheet of extra-strength aluminum foil so that the foil comes up the sides of the pan but does not go above the rim. Place the cooking rack in the ceramic pot of the Cuisinart Slow Cooker. Add 3 cups hot water to the ceramic pot. Place the cheesecake on the rack. Set on High and cook for 2 hours. Allow cheesecake to rest in slow cooker for 30 minutes on Warm. Remove cheesecake from slow cooker and discard foil. Place cheesecake on a rack to cool. Cover and refrigerate for a minimum of 8 hours before serving. Before serving, run a sharp knife around the edges to loosen and carefully remove the sides of the springform pan. Serve as a cheese spread with crackers, pita or bagel chips, or arrange thin slices on a green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette.

Yield: 16 appetizers servings
Calories: 158
Fat: 11g
Fiber: 0g

Serrano Ham & Potato Phyllo Pizza with Grated Mahon Cheese

Serrano Ham & Potato Phyllo Pizza with Grated Mahon Cheese

 

7 ea. 17 x 12-inch sheets Phyllo, stacked between 2 sheets of wax paper
¼ cup Extra virgin olive oil
2 oz. Serrano ham, chopped
1 lb. Red potatoes, washed and dried
1½ tsp. Dried rosemary, crumbled
2 cups Mahon, grated

In a preheated 325º F (~160ºC) oven toast the walnuts for 7 to 9 minutes or until lightly golden. Brush a baking sheet lightly with some of the oil. Lay one sheet of phyllo on the baking sheet and brush it lightly with some of the remaining oil. Place another sheet of phyllo on top of the bottom sheet and press firmly so it adheres to the bottom sheet. Oil and layer the remaining phyllo, ending with oil. Using a mandolin or hand slicer, cut the potatoes into paper-thin slices, overlapping them, on the dough, and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. Spread the ham over the potatoes, sprinkle with rosemary and Mahon, and drizzle with any remaining oil. Bake the pizza at 400ºF (200ºC) over for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the potatoes are tender. With pizza wheel or sharp knife cut into squares. Serve at room temperature.

Pane Fritto Con Acciuda

Pane Fritto Con Acciuda

23 oz. anchovies
3 cups flour
1 teaspoon granulated sugar
Pinch of salt
1/4 oz. dry yeast
1 egg
2 cups water
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 cups corn oil

Drain the anchovies and cut each fish into thirds. Set aside. Combine flour, sugar, salt, and yeast in a bowl. Beat egg and combine with water and 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the egg mixture to the flour and mix until blended. Dough should be soft and runny. Place in a bowl, cover, and let rise for one to one and a half hours. When the dough is double the original size, remove it from the bowl and set it on a pastry board. Pinch off 1 teaspoon, flatten it in the palm of your hand, place an anchovy in the center and seal it inside by rolling the dough into a ball. If the dough is too soft to handle, allow it to remain in the bowl. Keep a little extra flour on hand. Take a teaspoon, dip into the dough, and pull up enough dough to fill the spoon. With flour on your fingers, trim off any hanging dough. Place the anchovy in the center of the dough and fold the dough over it. Do not place it on a board, but drop it directly into hot oil, coaxing it from the spoon with a floured finger. Place a two quart pot over medium-high heat. Heat to hot. Add oil. Allow to heat. Drop anchovy balls into the hot oil one at a time. They will puff immediately. Allow to brown. Turn. Remove and drain. Eat warm. Anchovy Puffs are best eaten immediately. You can make a sweet version by omitting the stuffing with anchovies, frying, and then coating with sugar or honey.

Macaroni Grill Fonduta Gamberi

Macaroni Grill Fonduta Gamberi

Romanos-Macaroni-Grill-Fonduta-Gamberi-Recipe2 Cups half−and−half
1 T. clam juice
2 T. dry white wine
3 T. butter
1 shallot, finely chopped
2 T. flour
4 Cups rough chopped spinach
1 Cup canned artichoke hearts, chopped
8 large shrimp, peeled, cleaned and chopped
1/8 tsp. cayenne pepper (more to taste)
1/8 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
1/2 Cups shredded Mozzarella cheese, optional

In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine half−and−half, clam juice and white wine. In a separate saucepan, melt butter. Add shallots and sauté until translucent. Add flour to butter mixture, stirring until flour is absorbed. Cook, stirring constantly, 2−3 minutes. Add heated half−and−half mixture all at once to the shallot mix, stirring constantly with a wire whip to remove any lumps. Add spinach, artichokes, shrimp, cayenne and black pepper and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, so the mixture does not scorch. Remove mixture from heat, and stir in cheese, if desired. Pour dip into bowl and serve hot.

Fried Zucchini Flowers

Fried Zucchini Flowers

24 zucchini flowers, with stems
4 C. EVOO
2 large Eggs, beaten
2 C. Flour
Fresh Basil, thinly sliced
Finely Grated Parmesan Cheese
Salt & Pepper to taste

fried_zucchini_flowers

Gently remove the pistil from the center of each flower. Cut stems to about 1 inch. Rinse gently with water. Make sure blossoms are dry before using. Heat 1” oil in a 12” sauté pan over medium-high heat until oil is hot but not smoking. Beat eggs and set aside in shallow dish. Combine flour, basil, cheese, salt and pepper in its own dish. Dip zucchini blossoms, one at a time, in beaten egg. Let most egg drain away, then roll in flour, shaking off excess. Fry a few minutes until crisp and golden brown on both sides. Drain on paper towels.

Quick Pickle Chips

Quick Pickle Chips

Quick Pickle Chips

 

Be sure to choose the freshest, firmest pickling cucumbers available, for guaranteed crunch. These pickles cannot be processed for long-term storage.

 

3/4 C. seasoned rice vinegar

1/4 C. water

1 garlic clove, peeled and halved

1/4 tsp. ground turmeric

1/8 tsp. black peppercorns

1/8 tsp. yellow mustard seeds

8 ounces pickling cucumbers, ends trimmed, sliced 1/4 inch thick

2 sprigs fresh dill

 

 

Bring vinegar, water, garlic, turmeric, peppercorns, and mustard seeds to boil in medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Meanwhile, place one 1‑pint jar under hot running water until heated through, about 1 minute; dry thoroughly. Pack cucumbers and dill into hot jar. Using funnel and ladle, pour hot brine over cucumbers to cover. Let jar cool to room temperature, about 30 minutes. Cover jar with lid and refrigerate for at least 2 1/2 hours before serving. (Pickles can be refrigerated for up to 3 weeks; pickles will soften significantly after 3 weeks.)

Southern Fried Shrimp

Southern Fried Shrimp

2IP0410_Fried-Shrimp lb. deveined shrimp
2 Ziploc plastic bags
4 cups of flour
4 tsp. salt
2 tsp. pepper
4 tsp. granulated garlic
2 cups cornmeal
6 eggs
4 cups of whole milk
Peanut oil

Peel (leaving tails on) and butterfly thawed shrimp. In each Ziploc bag put 2 cups flour, 1 cup cornmeal, 2 tsp. salt, 1 tsp. pepper, 2 tsp. granulated garlic, close bag and shake well. Mix the 6 eggs in a bowl with the whole milk. Soak the deveined raw butterfly shrimp in the mixture.
Heat two pots of peanut oil (approximately 6 – 8 cups in each pot) to deep fat fry the shrimp. The peanut oil will need to be very hot to deep fat fry. Put one-half of the egg/milk soaked deveined raw butterfly shrimp in each Ziploc bags and shake. Drop battered shrimp into the hot peanut oil. Fry until golden. Using a large-holed spoon remove golden shrimp from peanut oil and place on platter lined with paper towels to soak up the grease.

Dipping Sauce

½ cup mayo
¼ cup catsup
Dash Worcestershire sauce
½ to 1 tsp. sugar to taste
Salt to taste

Mix well and serve with shrimp.

Pan-Fried Feta with Peppered Honey

Pan-Fried Feta with Peppered Honey

Pan-Fried Feta with Peppered Honey

 

1/4 C. honey

1/2-1 tsp. black pepper, plus more for serving

1 T. fresh thyme leaves, plus more for serving

 

1 (10-12 ounce) block feta cheese

1 large egg, beaten

1/3 C. Panko bread crumbs

5 T. extra virgin olive oil

2 T. thinly sliced lemon zest (from about 1 lemon)

1 C. cherry tomatoes

1/4 C. fresh basil, chopped

pita chips or pita bread, for serving

 

To make the honey. Combine all ingredients in a glass jar. To make the feta. Whisk the egg in a shallow bowl. Add the Panko to a separate shallow bowl. Dip the feta through the egg, turning to coat, remove and allow any excess to drip off. Dredge the feta through the Panko, turning to coat and pressing gently to adhere. Heat 3 T. oil in a medium skillet set over medium heat. When the oil shimmers, add the lemon zest and cook 30 seconds to 1 minute until fried. Remove from the skillet and set aside. To the same skillet add the feta and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, until golden brown. Transfer the feta to a serving plate. In a small bowl, combine the tomatoes, 1 T. oil, basil, and a pinch of salt. Serve the feta warm, drizzled with honey and topped with fried lemon, thyme, and tomatoes. Enjoy with pita chips or bread.

Burrata with Brown Butter, Lemon, and Cherries

Burrata with Brown Butter, Lemon, and Cherries

Burrata with Brown Butter, Lemon, and Cherries

3 C. (about 11 ounces) whole fresh cherries

1 T. balsamic vinegar, plus more for serving

4 T. (½ stick) unsalted butter

¼ tsp. finely grated lemon zest

8 ounces burrata or fresh mozzarella cheese

Torn fresh mint leaves, for serving

Flaky sea salt, for serving

Sliced baguette or other crusty bread, for serving (optional)

 

Using a paring knife, halve and pit the cherries. In a medium bowl, toss together the cherries and vinegar. Let them sit while you make the brown butter. Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Continue to cook until it smells nutty and is browned, about 5 minutes. Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the lemon zest. To serve, place the burrata in the center of a serving dish. Spoon the cherries around it, then drizzle the brown butter on top. Top with the mint, flaky sea salt, and more balsamic vinegar to taste. Serve with bread, if you like, or with spoons for catching the milky juices of the cheese.

Tuna and Olive Stuffed Romano Peppers

Tuna and Olive Stuffed Romano Peppers

Tuna and Olive Stuffed Romano Peppers

 

1 small red onion, diced

1 small garlic clove, minced

12 shiitake mushrooms, chopped

Half a 2-ounce (45 g) tin of sustainable anchovies, drained

One 5-ounce (140 g) tin of tuna in olive oil, drained

2 tsp. capers

5 black olives, halved

2 romano peppers, halved

2 tsp. panko (Japanese bread crumbs)

Zest of 1 lemon

¼ bunch of flat-leaf parsley, leaves only, finely chopped

Olive oil

Pepper

 

Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Heat a splash of olive oil over medium-high heat and sauté the red onion, garlic, and shiitake mushrooms until softened, 3 to 4 minutes. Add the anchovy fillets and let them “melt” in 2 minutes. Finally, mix in the tuna, capers, and olives and cook for a few more minutes until warmed through. Meanwhile, brush the halved peppers with olive oil and place them in an ovenproof dish. Remove the tuna mixture from the heat, fill the peppers with it, and dust with panko. Drizzle some extra olive oil on top and bake in the oven for 20 to 25 minutes, until crisp and done. Scatter the lemon zest and the parsley over the peppers. Season with freshly ground black pepper and serve.

 

Chorizo Stuffed Mushrooms

Chorizo Stuffed Mushrooms

mush1-1¼ pounds chorizo sausage (casing removed if links)
8 ounces shredded Mexican style cheese (yellow and white)
¼ cup grated fresh Asiago or Parmesan Cheese
½ cup chopped sweet onion
½ cup chopped sweet red pepper
¼ cup seasoned Italian bread crumbs
24-32 stuffing mushroom caps (approx 2-2 ½ inches in diameter)

Crumble and sauté sausage until cooked through, but not brown, adding onion and pepper when about half cooked (still a little pink). Do not worry if onion and pepper are not fully cooked when sausage is done. Drain and rinse in hot water to remove oil. Place sausage mixture in food processor with cheeses and bread crumbs and process until uniform. Brush inside and outside of mushroom with olive oil. Roll stuffing mix into a small ball and pack into mushroom. The stuffing should be mounded slightly. Place mushrooms in shallow backing pan or dish and bake at 350 degrees for 15-20 minutes or until stuffing is lightly browned. For a different flavor, try Italian sausage with provolone and mozzarella cheeses.

Tomato & Ricotta Tart

Tomato & Ricotta Tart

tomato tart1 pint Whole Milk Ricotta
2 Lemon Zest
1/2 cup Grated Parmesan
1 Egg, lightly beaten
1 teaspoon Kosher Salt
2 tablespoons Parsley, finely chopped
2 tablespoons Chives, finely chopped
1 sheet Puff Pastry
2-3 various Heirloom Tomatoes, sliced (room temperature)
1/2 cup Basil Leaves, torn
8 ounces Bacon (chopped)
Flakey Sea Salt
Olive Oil
Black Pepper, freshly cracked

Up to a day ahead of time, make the Ricotta mixture. The flavors will continue to blend and enhance the longer it sits. In a mixing bowl combine the Ricotta, Lemon Zest, Parmesan, Egg, Salt, Pepper, Parsley, Chives and 1 tablespoons of Olive Oil. Mix to thoroughly incorporate and refrigerate until ready to use. Preheat your oven to 400°F. Place your Puff Pastry on a baking sheet and roll it slightly in to more of a rectangle shape. Next, spread the Ricotta filling out to all four edges in a nice even layer, leaving a 1-inch border of crust. Fold the edges in and using your thumb and forefinger, create fluted edges. Bake until golden brown and bubbly looking on top, 30-35 minutes. Be sure to achieve a nice deep golden crust so the middle and bottom aren’t soggy! Meanwhile, preheat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add Bacon and sauté until crisp. Remove to a paper towel lined plate and set aside. Remove from the oven and slide on to a cutting board. Start layering your sliced Tomatoes across the top. Next add the cooked Bacon, torn Basil, a drizzle of Olive Oil, Cracked Pepper, a little more Parmesan and some flaky Salt. Slice in to 9 pieces and serve.