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Pesto Possibilities

Pesto Possibilities

Alana Sugar

Every summer I celebrate my home-grown, gorgeous herbs by making pesto. Pesto comes from the word “pestare” which means “to pound” or “crush.” The traditional ingredients (fresh basil, pine nuts, olive oil, garlic, parmesan cheese and sheep cheese called Fiore Sardo) were crushed and ground in a mortar and pestle. The good news is a modern food processor works just as well!

Pesto is really simple to make at home and the fun part is you don’t have to stick to the traditional ingredients. I like making pesto from a variety of leafy greens like spinach or arugula, and whatever herbs I happen to have on hand, such as basil or parsley. Using a wide array of fresh, seasonal greens, herbs, veggies and other items, you can create a masterful, versatile pesto with endless possibilities.

Here are some recipes to get you started:... Read More

Nora Ephron's cheesecake recipe

Nora Ephron's cheesecake recipe

Beloved humor writer Nora Ephron's cheesecake recipe is simply the best and easiest cheesecake recipe! It's quick and simple to make and rich and creamy to taste. As far as cheesecake recipes go, look no further — this one's sure to be your new go-to cheesecake recipe!... Read More

Sichuan Spice House - Orangevale

Sichuan Spice House - Orangevale

Fact 1: Everyone knows that if you truly want to know if an ethnic restaurant is authentic, then you need to get the opinion of a native. Fact 2: It is rare to find a good, authentic Sichuan restaurant in the United States. Including the major cities like New York and San Francisco.

I will tell you up front that this review of Sichuan Spice House (8847 Greenback Ln.) is not going to talk about each individual dish, how it was made, what spices and flavors stand out, etc. I'm not qualified to. What I will tell you is this:

1) I was referred here by Hank Shaw, recent James Beard award winner, and someone I trust with an above average knowledge of food in general.

2) The restaurant has a 5 star Yelp rating. I personally dislike Yelp, but even I know it's difficult to find an honest 5 star rating.
... Read More

Food52’s Top 5 Tips for Hosting a Successful Summer Potluck

Food52’s Top 5 Tips for Hosting a Successful Summer Potluck

The Editors at Food52.com

In the summer, you'll find us eating and drinking outside as much as we possibly can. So when it comes to throwing parties, we turn to potlucks to make hosting as stress-free as possible -- and to maximize our time out-of-doors. From picking the right recipes that can withstand a day in the sun to finding creative ways to add decorative (and edible!) flair, here are our top 5 tips for hosting a successful summer potluck.

1. Embrace the Make-Ahead Meal

Pan Bagnat: Le French Tuna Salad Sandwich

Photo by Sarah Shatz... Read More

Pairing wine with paint

Pairing wine with paint

The Painted Cork offers 2-3 hour painting on canvas classes that are taught step-by-step by a professional artist, where we allow our guests to bring in a bottle of your favorite wine or beer to enjoy throughout the classes. Our low prices include all art supplies and there is no experience necessary. Guests can go to our website "calendar" to see the painting classes and times and to register online at www.thepaintedcork.com

Our Folsom location has been open for more than two years, and because it has been such a success, we have decided to open a second location in Midtown Sacramento at 1624 J Street. This will be the first official "paint and sip art studio" in Sacramento! Our Sac opening is right around the corner and we should start conducting classes as early as next week!

Mason jar layered apple crumble cookie dessert

Mason jar layered apple crumble cookie dessert

Delicious baked sugar and cinnamon apples layered in a Mason jar with a crunchy crumbled cookie and homemade whipped cream? Yes please! What more could you ask for in a dessert?... Read More