Tag Archives | #sides

Brioche Stuffing with Pears and Chestnuts

Brioche Stuffing with Pears and Chestnuts
Yum
Print Recipe
Recipe by Silvia Baldini — If you're searching for a side dish that steals the spotlight, look no further. Allow me to introduce you to my Pear and Brioche Stuffing. It sparks an annual battle for seconds at my Thanksgiving table. This stuffing isn't just ordinary; it's a a perrect blend of flavors and textures. Imagine luscious pears, buttery brioche, sweet sausage, and the rich, nutty essence of chestnuts blending harmoniously. As they bake, these ingredients transform into a savory, eggy bread pudding that elevates your Thanksgiving feast to new heights. Trust me, one batch is never enough. The first time I served this stuffing, it disappeared in the blink of an eye. Since then, I've learned my lesson. Now, I triple the recipe every year.
Servings Prep Time
8 people 30 minutes
Cook Time
45 minutes
Servings Prep Time
8 people 30 minutes
Cook Time
45 minutes
Brioche Stuffing with Pears and Chestnuts
Yum
Print Recipe
Recipe by Silvia Baldini — If you're searching for a side dish that steals the spotlight, look no further. Allow me to introduce you to my Pear and Brioche Stuffing. It sparks an annual battle for seconds at my Thanksgiving table. This stuffing isn't just ordinary; it's a a perrect blend of flavors and textures. Imagine luscious pears, buttery brioche, sweet sausage, and the rich, nutty essence of chestnuts blending harmoniously. As they bake, these ingredients transform into a savory, eggy bread pudding that elevates your Thanksgiving feast to new heights. Trust me, one batch is never enough. The first time I served this stuffing, it disappeared in the blink of an eye. Since then, I've learned my lesson. Now, I triple the recipe every year.
Servings Prep Time
8 people 30 minutes
Cook Time
45 minutes
Servings Prep Time
8 people 30 minutes
Cook Time
45 minutes
Ingredients
  • 1 loaf brioche bread
  • 4 tablespoons (½ stick) unsalted butter, plus more for pan
  • 1 cup cup yellow onions, finely chopped
  • 1 cup cup celery, chopped finely
  • 3 medium ripe pears, each peeled, cored and sectioned in 8 pieces
  • 1 lb sweet Italian sausage meat
  • 1 tbsp cognac
  • 1 cup chestnuts, cooked and peeled 
  • 2 cups room temperature stock (such as vegetable, turkey, or chicken)
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 4 tbsp finely chopped mixed herbs, such as fresh sage, thyme and rosemary
  • Fine sea salt and fresh ground pepper
Servings: people
Instructions
  1. Cut brioche loaf into ¾-inch cubes and place on a lined baking sheet. Allow to dry in a low oven at 220°F or overnight at room temperature. Once dry, you will have about 2 cups total. Transfer bread to very large mixing bowl and raise oven temperature to 350°F.
  2. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large pan. Add the onion, celery and pears and cook until soft, about 8 minutes.
  3. In a medium pan, melt the remaining butter and add the sausage, cooking gently until browned, about 6 minutes. Add the cognac and cook for a few minutes. Combine the contents of both pans into the bowl with the diced brioche and add in the chestnuts and stock. It’s very important to try not to break the pears and brioche. Season with salt to taste and then gently fold in the eggs. Add the herbs, spices and pepper and mix one final time.
  4. Place evenly in a 9-by-13-inch greased baking dish and bake for 40 to 45  minutes, or until golden brown and puffed up and hot throughout. 
Recipe Notes

Can be made 2 days ahead and reheated before serving.

Share this Recipe
Continue Reading

Corn Pudding

Corn Pudding
Yum
Print Recipe
Recipe by Silvia Baldini — This buttery, fluffy dish is a favorite at my table. My son has become the master of the corn pudding and makes it every Thanksgiving. It’s a very easy recipe and it works great in summer or as a luscious side dish in fall and winter.
Servings Prep Time
6 to 8 people 15 minutes
Cook Time
45 minutes
Servings Prep Time
6 to 8 people 15 minutes
Cook Time
45 minutes
Corn Pudding
Yum
Print Recipe
Recipe by Silvia Baldini — This buttery, fluffy dish is a favorite at my table. My son has become the master of the corn pudding and makes it every Thanksgiving. It’s a very easy recipe and it works great in summer or as a luscious side dish in fall and winter.
Servings Prep Time
6 to 8 people 15 minutes
Cook Time
45 minutes
Servings Prep Time
6 to 8 people 15 minutes
Cook Time
45 minutes
Ingredients
  • 8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter, plus more for the baking dish
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 cup cream
  • 4 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 4 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • ¼ teaspoon sweet paprika
  • 1 tablespoon fine sea salt
  • ¾ tablespoon fresh ground black pepper
  • 5 cups fresh corn kernels cut off the cob, (from about 6 to 8 ears), or 5 cups frozen corn 
Servings: people
Instructions
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease the inside of an 7-by-11-inch baking dish.
  2. Melt one tablespoon of butter. Cook the onions until translucent. Set aside. Melt 7 tablespoons of butter in a small saucepan. Butter the inside of a 7-by-11-inch baking dish.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and cream. Add the cooked onions with the melted butter, sugar, paprika, salt, pepper, corn kernels. Mix gently until combined.
  4. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. 
  5. Fold a thin kitchen towel in half and place in the bottom of the large baking dish (see Notes). Transfer the dish with the corn into the center of the larger one. Fill the larger dish with hot tap water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the inner one. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, until the top begins to brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. Carefully remove from the oven and lift out the inner dish. Serve warm.
Recipe Notes
  • You can add 1 cup of sharp Cheddar cheese to the mixture before baking for extra flavor.
  • The kitchen towel will keep the inner baking dish from sliding around as you move it to and from the oven.
Share this Recipe
Continue Reading

Italian Potato Salad

Italian Potato Salad
Yum
Print Recipe
Recipe by Silvia Baldini—This is one of my favorite potato salads. The potatoes are dressed with good olive oil not with mayonnaise, so the salad is fresh, and light. When I was a kid, we used to make it each summer with the most tender string beans from our garden. Make sure to dress the salad when the potatoes are still warm to ensure they absorb all of the tanginess of the vinegar and the richness of the olive oil. The potatoes are at their creamiest when served at room temperature, which makes this a great dish for picnics, barbecues and potlucks.
Servings Prep Time
4 to 6 people 10 minutes
Cook Time Passive Time
20 minutes 30 minutes rest time
Servings Prep Time
4 to 6 people 10 minutes
Cook Time Passive Time
20 minutes 30 minutes rest time
Italian Potato Salad
Yum
Print Recipe
Recipe by Silvia Baldini—This is one of my favorite potato salads. The potatoes are dressed with good olive oil not with mayonnaise, so the salad is fresh, and light. When I was a kid, we used to make it each summer with the most tender string beans from our garden. Make sure to dress the salad when the potatoes are still warm to ensure they absorb all of the tanginess of the vinegar and the richness of the olive oil. The potatoes are at their creamiest when served at room temperature, which makes this a great dish for picnics, barbecues and potlucks.
Servings Prep Time
4 to 6 people 10 minutes
Cook Time Passive Time
20 minutes 30 minutes rest time
Servings Prep Time
4 to 6 people 10 minutes
Cook Time Passive Time
20 minutes 30 minutes rest time
Ingredients
  • 4 large new potatoes
  • 1 tablespoon coarse sea salt for the boiling water
  • 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
  • ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for finishing
  • 3 tablespoons white wine vinegar
  • ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
  • freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • ¾ cup fresh parsley leaves, finely chopped
  • 1 cup spring onions or chives, finely chopped
Servings: people
Instructions
  1. Put potatoes in a large pot and add water to cover potatoes. Add salt and bring to a boil. Once boiling, cook for 20 minutes. Add the beans and cook for 7 more minutes, or until the potatoes and beans are just tender.
  2. Turn the potatoes and beans into a colander, separating out the potatoes. Refresh the beans under cold running water until no longer warm and drain well.
  3. When the potatoes are cool enough to handle, peel and chop into ⅓-inch chunks. If the beans are long, halve them crosswise.
  4. In a large bowl, whisk together the oil, vinegar and salt and pepper. Add the potatoes and beans and very gently toss to coat without breaking up the potatoes.
  5. Cover and let stand on the counter for at least 30 minutes.
  6. Just before serving, sprinkle with parsley and a drizzle with oil. Top with chopped spring onions or chives.
Recipe Notes

Feel free to add a handful of black olives or a chopped tomato to add color and depth to this lovely summer salad.

Share this Recipe
Continue Reading

Roasted Broccolini with Pecorino

Roasted Broccolini with Pecorino
Yum
Print Recipe
Recipe by Silvia Baldini — With sharp Pecorino melted on crispy, bitter florets with tender stalks, this is broccolini heaven. It’s a great everyday dish but it’s also worthy of any dinner party.
Servings Prep Time
4 people 10 minutes
Cook Time
15 minutes
Servings Prep Time
4 people 10 minutes
Cook Time
15 minutes
Roasted Broccolini with Pecorino
Yum
Print Recipe
Recipe by Silvia Baldini — With sharp Pecorino melted on crispy, bitter florets with tender stalks, this is broccolini heaven. It’s a great everyday dish but it’s also worthy of any dinner party.
Servings Prep Time
4 people 10 minutes
Cook Time
15 minutes
Servings Prep Time
4 people 10 minutes
Cook Time
15 minutes
Ingredients
  • lb broccolini, trimmed at the base
  • 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon coarse sea salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 6 oz grated Pecorino-Romano cheese
  • Juice of ½ lemon
Servings: people
Instructions
  1. Special Equipment: Parchment paper. Preheat the oven to 425°F.
  2. Cut the trimmed broccolini stems in half lengthwise. Don’t cut the florets. Place the broccolini on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle the olive oil on the broccolini and sprinkle with the salt and  pepper. Toss well, making sure the broccolini is lightly coated with oil. Spread the broccolini in one layer and roast for 10 minutes, turning once, until crisp-tender\ and slightly browned at the edges.
  3. Sprinkle the Pecorino over the roasted broccolini and return to the oven for 3 to 4 minutes, just until the cheese melts. Squeeze ½ a lemon over the baking sheet, taste for seasonings, and serve hot.
Share this Recipe
Continue Reading

Whole Roasted Tomatoes, Garlic and Herbs

 

 

Whole Roasted Tomatoes, Garlic and Herbs
Yum
Print Recipe
Recipe by Silvia Baldini— Roasting a big batch of whole tomatoes it's a simple way to stash away a useful dish with and intense, concentrate flavor. Tomatoes are not only delicious but they have cooling and astringent properties. They are rich in vitamin C, which can eliminate acne and brighten dull skin. I use Plum, Roma or any firm, meaty and ripe tomato. I skin them by plunging them in boiling water for 10 seconds then I roast them with garlic, good extra virgin olive oil, basil and thyme for 45 minutes. I always add salt and pepper after cooking them, because tomatoes don't take to seasoning well before roasting them, and it's just better that way.Roasted Tomatoes can be used as a garnish, or as a healthy and fast sauce scooped on pasta and grains. I chop leftovers with ripe peaches, cilantro and small red onion and hot peppers for an assertive salsa.The tomatoes keep, covered in the fridge for a week but no matter how many I make they never last that long.
Servings Prep Time
12 people 30 minutes
Cook Time
45 minutes
Servings Prep Time
12 people 30 minutes
Cook Time
45 minutes
Whole Roasted Tomatoes, Garlic and Herbs
Yum
Print Recipe
Recipe by Silvia Baldini— Roasting a big batch of whole tomatoes it's a simple way to stash away a useful dish with and intense, concentrate flavor. Tomatoes are not only delicious but they have cooling and astringent properties. They are rich in vitamin C, which can eliminate acne and brighten dull skin. I use Plum, Roma or any firm, meaty and ripe tomato. I skin them by plunging them in boiling water for 10 seconds then I roast them with garlic, good extra virgin olive oil, basil and thyme for 45 minutes. I always add salt and pepper after cooking them, because tomatoes don't take to seasoning well before roasting them, and it's just better that way.Roasted Tomatoes can be used as a garnish, or as a healthy and fast sauce scooped on pasta and grains. I chop leftovers with ripe peaches, cilantro and small red onion and hot peppers for an assertive salsa.The tomatoes keep, covered in the fridge for a week but no matter how many I make they never last that long.
Servings Prep Time
12 people 30 minutes
Cook Time
45 minutes
Servings Prep Time
12 people 30 minutes
Cook Time
45 minutes
Ingredients
  • 24 medium plum or roma tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 8/10 medium cloves of garlic, peeled
  • a handful of fresh basil leaves
  • sprigs of thyme
  • fine sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
Servings: people
Instructions
  1. With a pairing knife core the tomatoes (cut out a small wedge from the stem end) then score a small cross on the bottom, it facilitate peeling them. Plunge the tomatoes in boiling water for 10 seconds. Then scoop them out on a paper towel and remove the skin.
  2. Line a large baking dish with parchment paper, then fit all the tomatoes in the dish. It's ok if they are a bit crowed. Distribute the garlic and the herbs among the tomatoes. Drizzle with the olive oil.
  3. Roast with-out touching the tomatoes for 40 to 45. Once cooked they should still hold their shape but they should be soft to the touch and slightly caramelized. Season with salt and pepper. Store with the liquids, herbs and garlic for up to a week in the fridge.
Share this Recipe
Continue Reading

Easy Peasy Spring Peas, Snow Peas and Prosciutto Salad

This bright, green and crunchy salad is a take on the classic italian side dish of Peas and Prosciutto.  I like this nutritious salad, it makes a very yummy power lunch or a delicious side dish and since I care about what I eat but I don’t want to lose sleep over it –the past 100 days have been enough of a snooze disruptor — I’m happy when a recipe this balanced takes less than 15 minutes to throw together. #RESIST

Spring Peas, Snow Peas and Prosciutto Salad
Yum
Print Recipe
Servings
4 people
Cook Time
15 minutes total
Servings
4 people
Cook Time
15 minutes total
Spring Peas, Snow Peas and Prosciutto Salad
Yum
Print Recipe
Servings
4 people
Cook Time
15 minutes total
Servings
4 people
Cook Time
15 minutes total
Ingredients
  • sea salt for boiling water
  • 1 1/2 cups cups shelled fresh green peas (from about 1¼ pounds pods), or frozen peas, thawed
  • 12 ounces snow peas, trimmed and washed
  • 8 slices prosciutto, sliced medium-thick
  • 1/2 cups shaved parmigiano
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 3 tablespoons virgin olive oil
  • sea salt and black pepper
  • 3 tablespoons chopped fresh mint
Servings: people
Instructions
  1. Cook green peas and snow peas in a large pot of boiling salted water until crisp-tender, about 5-7 minutes per batch. Immediately transfer to a bowl of ice water then drain and dry on paper towels.
  2. Whisk lemon juice and mustard in a large bowl. Gradually add oil, whisking constantly until emulsified; season vinaigrette with salt and pepper.
  3. Add green peas, snow peas, and mint to a bowl with vinaigrette and toss until well coated with dressing;
  4. Arrange salad on a platter and top with prosciutto. Add the shaved parmigiano.
Share this Recipe
Continue Reading

Grilled Eggplant, Red Peppers and Pine Nuts Crostone

Every mother is a working mother. (Take note, Flotus.) This simple veggie concoction turns into lunch in just 15 minutes. That means less time in the kitchen and more time to call our senators and to spread love and kindness to our beautiful families. Eggplant is a major brain food and the pine nuts, besides boosting energy, help suppress appetite by keeping us sated longer. Together these healthy ingredients keep us in tip-top shape. Should a certain Twatzi decide to grade us on a scale from 1 to 10, we’ll score an 11.

Grilled Eggplant, Red Peppers and Pine Nuts Crostone
Yum
Print Recipe
Servings Prep Time
6 bread slices 15 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Servings Prep Time
6 bread slices 15 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Grilled Eggplant, Red Peppers and Pine Nuts Crostone
Yum
Print Recipe
Servings Prep Time
6 bread slices 15 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Servings Prep Time
6 bread slices 15 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Ingredients
  • 2 medium eggplants sliced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small white onion chopped
  • 1 small clove garlic, minced
  • 1 medium celery stalk, chopped
  • 1 medium red bell pepper, grilled and diced (a jar of marinated red bell peppers will work fine)
  • 1/4 cup black olives, pitted and chopped
  • 1 tbsp drained and rinsed capers
  • 3 tbsp toasted pine nuts
  • 1/4 cup shredded fresh basil plus more for garnish
  • 6 thick bread slices
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • salt and pepper
Servings: bread slices
Instructions
  1. Quickly grill the eggplant slices on a hot griddle or grill pan until you see dark grill marks, about 3 minutes per side. Then chop the slices into a nice bite-size dice.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a medium pan over medium heat. Cook the onion, garlic and celery until softened, about 5 minutes. Transfer to a medium bowl.
  3. Add the eggplant, the red bell pepper, olives, capers, pine nuts and basil to the onion mixture and mix well.
  4. Grill the bread slices on both sides and then brush the surface of one side with the olive oil. Top the grilled bread with the eggplant mixture, season with salt and pepper and add more fresh basil.
Recipe Notes

Quadruple this recipe and keep it in airtight container in the fridge or freezer. It's a low-calorie, full-of-might meal when you combine it with pasta or rice.

Share this Recipe
Continue Reading

Grilled Eggplant, Red Peppers and Pine Nuts Crostone

Every mother is a working mother. This veggies concoction is lunch in less than 15 minutes. That means less time in the kitchen, more time to call our respective senators and to spread love and kindness to our beautiful families. The eggplant is a major brain food and the pine nuts, besides boosting energy, suppress appetite, helping us staying in tip top shape.

Grilled Eggplant, Red Peppers and Pine Nuts Crostone
Yum
Print Recipe
Servings Prep Time
6 bread slices 15 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Servings Prep Time
6 bread slices 15 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Grilled Eggplant, Red Peppers and Pine Nuts Crostone
Yum
Print Recipe
Servings Prep Time
6 bread slices 15 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Servings Prep Time
6 bread slices 15 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Ingredients
  • 2 medium eggplants sliced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small white onion chopped
  • 1 small clove garlic, minced
  • 1 medium celery stalk, chopped
  • 1 medium red bell pepper, grilled and diced (a jar of marinated red bell peppers will work fine)
  • 1/4 cup black olives, pitted and chopped
  • 1 tbsp drained and rinsed capers
  • 3 tbsp toasted pine nuts
  • 1/4 cup shredded fresh basil plus more for garnish
  • 6 thick bread slices
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • salt and pepper
Servings: bread slices
Instructions
  1. Quickly grill the eggplant slices on a hot griddle or grill pan until you see dark grill marks, about 3 minutes per side. Then chop the slices into a nice bite-size dice.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a medium pan over medium heat. Cook the onion, garlic and celery until softened, about 5 minutes. Transfer to a medium bowl.
  3. Add the eggplant, the red bell pepper, olives, capers, pine nuts and basil to the onion mixture and mix well.
  4. Grill the bread slices on both sides and then brush the surface of one side with the olive oil. Top the grilled bread with the eggplant mixture, season with salt and pepper and add more fresh basil.
Recipe Notes

Quadruple this recipe and keep it in airtight container in the fridge or freezer. It's a low-calorie, full-of-might meal when you combine it with pasta or rice.

Share this Recipe
Continue Reading

Edamame, Fava Beans and Pancetta on Toast

Energy-packed edamame beans, bittersweet fava beans, salty pancetta, all coated in delicious and healthy olive oil and finished with a squeeze of bright lemon juice. I like to pile this satisfying and pleasingly chewy mixture on thick slices of toasted sourdough. Prep your beans and pancetta ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to a week, keeping them ready and waiting for whenever you need a quick lunch, side, snack or last-minute and light supper.


Prep your beans and pancetta ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to a week, keeping them ready and waiting for whenever you need a quick lunch, side, snack or last-minute and light supper.

Edamame, Fava Beans and Pancetta on Toast
Yum
Print Recipe
Servings Prep Time
4 people 15 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Servings Prep Time
4 people 15 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Edamame, Fava Beans and Pancetta on Toast
Yum
Print Recipe
Servings Prep Time
4 people 15 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Servings Prep Time
4 people 15 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Ingredients
  • 4 cups Fava beans shelled frozen or fresh
  • 1/2 cup diced pancetta or good bacon
  • 2 tbsp olive oil plus more for drizzling
  • 1 medium lemon, juiced
  • 4 thick slices sourdough bread
  • sea salt and black pepper
  • olive oil to finish
  • 1 tsp chopped fresh mint
Servings: people
Instructions
  1. Prep the beans. Shell the fava beans and edamame. Keep them separate.
  2. Bring a medium pot of salted water to a boil and add the fava beans. Simmer for 2 minutes and then scoop them out. Squeeze each fava bean out of its outer bitter skin, toss in a colander to drain and set aside. Keep the water boiling. Then add the edamame to the boiling water. Simmer for 2 to 3 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  3. Fry the pancetta or the bacon in a skillet until crisp and brown. Remove from the heat.
  4. When ready to serve, in a large bowl combine the fava beans and edamame, the pancetta, the olive oil and the lemon. Mix delicately.
  5. Toast the bread. Spoon the beans and pancetta mix on the toasted bread, drizzle with extra olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt and black pepper. Finish with a little sprinkle of chopped mint.
Recipe Notes

Grated Pecorino or aged ricotta would make a nice salty and savory addition to the toast.

Share this Recipe
Continue Reading

Edamame, Fava Beans and Pancetta on Toast

Energy packed edamame beans, bittersweet fava beans, salty pancetta, all coated in delicious and healthy olive oil and finished with a bright squeeze of lemon juice. I like to pile up this satisfying and chewy medley on thick slices of toasted sourdough.  Prep your beans and pancetta ahead of time, you can store them in the fridge for up to a week, keep them waiting and ready for lunch, side, snack or a last minute lite supper.

Edamame, Fava Beans and Pancetta on Toast
Yum
Print Recipe
Servings Prep Time
4 people 15 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Servings Prep Time
4 people 15 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Edamame, Fava Beans and Pancetta on Toast
Yum
Print Recipe
Servings Prep Time
4 people 15 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Servings Prep Time
4 people 15 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Ingredients
  • 4 cups Fava beans shelled frozen or fresh
  • 1/2 cup diced pancetta or good bacon
  • 2 tbsp olive oil plus more for drizzling
  • 1 medium lemon, juiced
  • 4 thick slices sourdough bread
  • sea salt and black pepper
  • olive oil to finish
  • 1 tsp chopped fresh mint
Servings: people
Instructions
  1. Prep the beans. Shell the fava beans and edamame. Keep them separate.
  2. Bring a medium pot of salted water to a boil and add the fava beans. Simmer for 2 minutes and then scoop them out. Squeeze each fava bean out of its outer bitter skin, toss in a colander to drain and set aside. Keep the water boiling. Then add the edamame to the boiling water. Simmer for 2 to 3 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  3. Fry the pancetta or the bacon in a skillet until crisp and brown. Remove from the heat.
  4. When ready to serve, in a large bowl combine the fava beans and edamame, the pancetta, the olive oil and the lemon. Mix delicately.
  5. Toast the bread. Spoon the beans and pancetta mix on the toasted bread, drizzle with extra olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt and black pepper. Finish with a little sprinkle of chopped mint.
Recipe Notes

Grated Pecorino or aged ricotta would make a nice salty and savory addition to the toast.

Share this Recipe
Continue Reading

Veggie Board and Anchovy Dressing

This salty and addictive anchovy-based dressing is similar to my beloved Italian classic, bagna cauda. It’s very easy to whip together and you can keep it in a jar in the fridge for weeks, ready for whenever you need some extra flavor. Serve it with a rainbow of good-for-you veggie crudités or with simple steamed broccoli. I swear, kids love it.

veggies-crudite-silvia-baldini

Veggie Board and Anchovy Dressing
Yum
Print Recipe
Servings Prep Time
4 people 10 minutes
Servings Prep Time
4 people 10 minutes
Veggie Board and Anchovy Dressing
Yum
Print Recipe
Servings Prep Time
4 people 10 minutes
Servings Prep Time
4 people 10 minutes
Ingredients
  • 6/8 fillets drained canned anchovies
  • 1/2 cups olive oil
  • 1 small cloves garlic peeled
  • 1/2 tsp thyme leaves chopped
  • 1/2 tsp chili flakes
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 2 tsp cider or red wine vinegar
  • butter unsalted
Servings: people
Instructions
  1. Put all the ingredients in a glass jar and whiz together with a hand held blender until cream and smooth. I like to leave the dressing aside before using for at least half hour to allow all the flavors to mingle and develop.
Share this Recipe
Continue Reading

Veggie Board and Anchovy Dressing

This salty and addictive anchovy-based dressing-similar to my beloved Italian classic Bagna Cauda is very easy to whip up. Serve it with a rainbow of good for you veggies or with steamed broccoli. Keep it in a jar in the fridge for weeks, ready for when you need some extra flavor. I swear, kids love it.

Veggie Board and Anchovy Dressing
Yum
Print Recipe
Servings Prep Time
4 people 10 minutes
Servings Prep Time
4 people 10 minutes
Veggie Board and Anchovy Dressing
Yum
Print Recipe
Servings Prep Time
4 people 10 minutes
Servings Prep Time
4 people 10 minutes
Ingredients
  • 6/8 fillets drained canned anchovies
  • 1/2 cups olive oil
  • 1 small cloves garlic peeled
  • 1/2 tsp thyme leaves chopped
  • 1/2 tsp chili flakes
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 2 tsp cider or red wine vinegar
  • butter unsalted
Servings: people
Instructions
  1. Put all the ingredients in a glass jar and whiz together with a hand held blender until cream and smooth. I like to leave the dressing aside before using for at least half hour to allow all the flavors to mingle and develop.
Share this Recipe
Continue Reading

Spinach Couscous

Spinach and Mint Couscous
Yum
Print Recipe
Servings Prep Time
8 10 minutes
Servings Prep Time
8 10 minutes
Spinach and Mint Couscous
Yum
Print Recipe
Servings Prep Time
8 10 minutes
Servings Prep Time
8 10 minutes
Ingredients
  • 2 cups couscous
  • 2 cups boiling water
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp fresh organic lemon juice
  • 1 medium organic lemon peel grated
  • 2 cups shredded spinach leaves
  • 1/4 cup toasted pinenuts
  • salt and pepper
Servings:
Instructions
  1. Combine the couscous with the boiling water in a large heatproof bowl, cover; stand for 5 minutes or until the water is absorbed, fluffing with the fork occasionally.
  2. Toast the pine nuts in a heated dry pan. Cool off.
  3. Add the olive oil and the lemon juice, the grated peel and gently mix. Fold the spinach and the pine nuts in the couscous and season with salt and pepper.
Share this Recipe
Continue Reading

Charred Roasted Vegetables

Charred Roasted Vegetables
Yum
Print Recipe
Servings Prep Time
8 people 15 minutes
Cook Time
50 minutes
Servings Prep Time
8 people 15 minutes
Cook Time
50 minutes
Charred Roasted Vegetables
Yum
Print Recipe
Servings Prep Time
8 people 15 minutes
Cook Time
50 minutes
Servings Prep Time
8 people 15 minutes
Cook Time
50 minutes
Ingredients
  • 1 large pumpkin peeled and cut in to thin wedges
  • 4 medium beetroots cleaned and cut in half
  • 2 large parsnip peeled and quartered
  • 2 cups baby carrots cleaned
  • 2 medium red onions quartered
  • 1/4 cup olive oli
  • 1 tsp sea salt flakes
Servings: people
Instructions
  1. Preheat the oven to 400F/ Prep all the vegetables and place on to large baking dishes lined with parchment. Drizzle with olive oil and dot with butter. Sprinkle with salt.
  2. Roast the vegetables for 40/50 minutes, turning once. Remove from the oven when nicely browned.
Share this Recipe
Continue Reading

Beetroot and Walnut Hummus

This glorious purple beetroot and walnut hummus is a simple concoction that’s perfect as a dip with flatbreads or in a sandwich with some tangy cheese.

purple-humus-silvia-baldini

Beetroot and Walnut Hummus
Yum
Print Recipe
Servings Prep Time
4 15 minutes
Servings Prep Time
4 15 minutes
Beetroot and Walnut Hummus
Yum
Print Recipe
Servings Prep Time
4 15 minutes
Servings Prep Time
4 15 minutes
Ingredients
  • 1/2 cup walnuts
  • 3 medium beetroots cooked, peeled and diced
  • 1/4 cup cubed stale bread crust removed
  • 1 tbsp tahini paste
  • 1/2 clove garlic optional
  • 1 medium lemon, juiced
  • 1/4 tsp cumin powder
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
Servings:
Instructions
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
  2. Spread the walnuts on a rimmed baking sheet and toast in the oven for 5 to 7 minutes. In a food processor, crumble the stale bread. Then add the beets, tahini, the garlic if using, the toasted walnuts, the cumin, half the lemon juice, salt and pepper and blend to a thick paste. Add the olive oil and pulse a couple of times.
  3. Taste the mixture and adjust for lemon juice and seasoning. Cover and refrigerate for up to a couple days. Bring to room temperature prior to serving.
Share this Recipe
Continue Reading

Beetroot and Walnuts Hummus

A glorious purple beetroot and walnuts hummus. This simple concoction is perfect in a sandwich with a tangy cheese or with flatbreads.

Beetroot and Walnut Hummus
Yum
Print Recipe
Servings Prep Time
4 15 minutes
Servings Prep Time
4 15 minutes
Beetroot and Walnut Hummus
Yum
Print Recipe
Servings Prep Time
4 15 minutes
Servings Prep Time
4 15 minutes
Ingredients
  • 1/2 cup walnuts
  • 3 medium beetroots cooked, peeled and diced
  • 1/4 cup cubed stale bread crust removed
  • 1 tbsp tahini paste
  • 1/2 clove garlic optional
  • 1 medium lemon, juiced
  • 1/4 tsp cumin powder
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
Servings:
Instructions
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
  2. Spread the walnuts on a rimmed baking sheet and toast in the oven for 5 to 7 minutes. In a food processor, crumble the stale bread. Then add the beets, tahini, the garlic if using, the toasted walnuts, the cumin, half the lemon juice, salt and pepper and blend to a thick paste. Add the olive oil and pulse a couple of times.
  3. Taste the mixture and adjust for lemon juice and seasoning. Cover and refrigerate for up to a couple days. Bring to room temperature prior to serving.
Share this Recipe
Continue Reading

Detox Papaya with Passion Fruit and Lime

When it’s grey and snowy outside, I crave sunshine. Sliced papaya does the trick for me. Full of vitamins A, C, and B as well as calcium, iron and phosphorous, papaya not only gives me my warm weather fix but helps in weight loss and fighting cellulite. It’s the ultimate breakfast, snack or dessert. I like to add lemon, lime and some passionfruit pulp to brighten the tropical taste.

papya-silvia-baldini

Detox Papaya with Passion Fruit and Lime
Yum
Print Recipe
If you're done with kale, start thinking papaya. Full of vitamins A, C, and B as well as calcium, iron and phosphorous, papaya helps in weight loss and fighting cellulite. The ultimate breakfast, snack or dessert. I like to add lemon, lime and some passionfruit pulp to thick slices for a bright mouthful.
Servings Prep Time
4 people 15 minutes
Servings Prep Time
4 people 15 minutes
Detox Papaya with Passion Fruit and Lime
Yum
Print Recipe
If you're done with kale, start thinking papaya. Full of vitamins A, C, and B as well as calcium, iron and phosphorous, papaya helps in weight loss and fighting cellulite. The ultimate breakfast, snack or dessert. I like to add lemon, lime and some passionfruit pulp to thick slices for a bright mouthful.
Servings Prep Time
4 people 15 minutes
Servings Prep Time
4 people 15 minutes
Ingredients
  • 2 medium ripe papayas cut into thick wedges
  • 1/4 cup passion fruit pulp with seeds
  • 2 tbsp lime juice
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
Servings: people
Instructions
  1. Divide the papaya slices among serving plates. Drizzle with the passion fruit pulp and the juice of the lime and the lemon.
Share this Recipe
Continue Reading

Detox Papaya with Passion Fruit and Lime

Detox Papaya with Passion Fruit and Lime
Yum
Print Recipe
If you're done with kale, start thinking papaya. Full of vitamins A, C, and B as well as calcium, iron and phosphorous, papaya helps in weight loss and fighting cellulite. The ultimate breakfast, snack or dessert. I like to add lemon, lime and some passionfruit pulp to thick slices for a bright mouthful.
Servings Prep Time
4 people 15 minutes
Servings Prep Time
4 people 15 minutes
Detox Papaya with Passion Fruit and Lime
Yum
Print Recipe
If you're done with kale, start thinking papaya. Full of vitamins A, C, and B as well as calcium, iron and phosphorous, papaya helps in weight loss and fighting cellulite. The ultimate breakfast, snack or dessert. I like to add lemon, lime and some passionfruit pulp to thick slices for a bright mouthful.
Servings Prep Time
4 people 15 minutes
Servings Prep Time
4 people 15 minutes
Ingredients
  • 2 medium ripe papayas cut into thick wedges
  • 1/4 cup passion fruit pulp with seeds
  • 2 tbsp lime juice
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
Servings: people
Instructions
  1. Divide the papaya slices among serving plates. Drizzle with the passion fruit pulp and the juice of the lime and the lemon.
Share this Recipe
Continue Reading

Beetroot, Orange and Spinach Juice

Time to reset, clean out and get back in my jeans. Beetroots are packed with iron, folic acid, magnesium and antioxidants. Combined with orange juice and spinach in a delicious, gorgeous, deep red juice, they’re sure to kick start my day.

beetroot-juice-silvia-baldini

Beetroot, Orange and Spinach Juice
Yum
Print Recipe
Servings Prep Time
4 glasses 5 minutes
Servings Prep Time
4 glasses 5 minutes
Beetroot, Orange and Spinach Juice
Yum
Print Recipe
Servings Prep Time
4 glasses 5 minutes
Servings Prep Time
4 glasses 5 minutes
Ingredients
  • 4 medium red beets roughly chopped
  • 5 medium oranges peeled and segmented or roughly chopped
  • 1 cup spinach leaves, rinsed
  • 2/3 cup cold water
Servings: glasses
Instructions
  1. Push the beet, oranges and spinach through a juice extractor. Stir in the water and serve. If you don't have a juice extractor, use a high-powered blender and then strain it through a fine-mesh sieve.
Share this Recipe
Continue Reading

Marinated Goat Cheese

A jar of my marinated goat cheese makes an easy, tasty and lovely gift for the holidays. It’s spectacular simply slathered on crusty bread, crumbled on salads, even grilled and sandwiched in a baguette. It doesn’t require any cooking but it sure shows a lot of love. Give it as a hostess gift and share some yumminess.

goat-cheese-amrinated-silvia-baldini

Marinated Goat Cheese
Yum
Print Recipe
Use fresh, young goat cheese and fruity olive oil.
Servings Prep Time
4 large jars 20 minutes
Servings Prep Time
4 large jars 20 minutes
Marinated Goat Cheese
Yum
Print Recipe
Use fresh, young goat cheese and fruity olive oil.
Servings Prep Time
4 large jars 20 minutes
Servings Prep Time
4 large jars 20 minutes
Ingredients
  • 16 small crottins (or rounds) fresh goat cheese
  • 4 bay leaves
  • 2 tbsp fresh rosemary thyme, oregano are really good substitutions
  • 4 small chili peppers
  • 1 large lemon
  • 2 tbsp fennel seeds
  • 4 cloves garlic peeled
  • 2 cups olive oil enough to cover the cheese in the jar
Servings: large jars
Instructions
  1. Divide the cheese among 4 sterilized jars. Add the bay leaves and the rosemary sprigs to the jars.
  2. Cut the chilis in half. Cut 8 strips of zest from the lemon. Arrange the lemon strips and the chili next to the cheeses in the jars. Add the fennel seeds and the garlic cloves to the jars.
  3. Pour in enough olive oil so the cheeses are completely covered. Seal the jars and place them in the refrigerator. Bring to room temperature before serving.
Recipe Notes

Store in the fridge for up to two weeks. Eat with some crusty bread or crumble on salads or grill on slices of baguette for a quick and easy crostino.

Share this Recipe
Continue Reading

Marinated Goat Cheese

Marinated Goat Cheese
Yum
Print Recipe
Use fresh, young goat cheese and fruity olive oil.
Servings Prep Time
4 large jars 20 minutes
Servings Prep Time
4 large jars 20 minutes
Marinated Goat Cheese
Yum
Print Recipe
Use fresh, young goat cheese and fruity olive oil.
Servings Prep Time
4 large jars 20 minutes
Servings Prep Time
4 large jars 20 minutes
Ingredients
  • 16 small crottins (or rounds) fresh goat cheese
  • 4 bay leaves
  • 2 tbsp fresh rosemary thyme, oregano are really good substitutions
  • 4 small chili peppers
  • 1 large lemon
  • 2 tbsp fennel seeds
  • 4 cloves garlic peeled
  • 2 cups olive oil enough to cover the cheese in the jar
Servings: large jars
Instructions
  1. Divide the cheese among 4 sterilized jars. Add the bay leaves and the rosemary sprigs to the jars.
  2. Cut the chilis in half. Cut 8 strips of zest from the lemon. Arrange the lemon strips and the chili next to the cheeses in the jars. Add the fennel seeds and the garlic cloves to the jars.
  3. Pour in enough olive oil so the cheeses are completely covered. Seal the jars and place them in the refrigerator. Bring to room temperature before serving.
Recipe Notes

Store in the fridge for up to two weeks. Eat with some crusty bread or crumble on salads or grill on slices of baguette for a quick and easy crostino.

Share this Recipe
Continue Reading

Hasselback Potatoes

Hasselback Potatoes
Yum
Print Recipe
Servings Prep Time
4-6 people 20 minutes
Cook Time
1 hour
Servings Prep Time
4-6 people 20 minutes
Cook Time
1 hour
Hasselback Potatoes
Yum
Print Recipe
Servings Prep Time
4-6 people 20 minutes
Cook Time
1 hour
Servings Prep Time
4-6 people 20 minutes
Cook Time
1 hour
Ingredients
  • 4-6 medium yukon yellow potatoes
  • 1 tbsp Butter melted
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/4 cup bread crumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
Servings: people
Instructions
  1. Preheat oven to 350F. Peel and halve the potatoes in half. Place them on a chopping board, cut side down. Slice the potatoes one at the time thinly, but be careful not to cut through the potatoes. I place a chopstick along each sides of the potato to prevent the knife going all the way through.
  2. Combine the oil and the melted butter. Place the potatoes cut side down on a lined baking dish in a single layer. Coat the potatoes with the oil and butter mixture using a brush.
  3. Bake for 45 minutes basting frequently with the remaining oil and butter. Combine the crumbs and the grated cheddar cheese.
  4. After 45 minute sprinkle the potatoes with a little salt and the combine crumbs and cheddar cheese. Bake for an extra 15 minutes or until golden brown.
Share this Recipe
Continue Reading

Mix and Match Root Vegetables Purée

photo by silvia baldini

 

Mix and Match Root Vegetables Purée
Yum
Print Recipe
The recipe and ingredients for the mix and match mash are featured in the Westport Farmers Market blog. http://westportfarmersmarket.com/blog/
Servings Prep Time
4 people 20 minutes
Cook Time
45 minutes
Servings Prep Time
4 people 20 minutes
Cook Time
45 minutes
Mix and Match Root Vegetables Purée
Yum
Print Recipe
The recipe and ingredients for the mix and match mash are featured in the Westport Farmers Market blog. http://westportfarmersmarket.com/blog/
Servings Prep Time
4 people 20 minutes
Cook Time
45 minutes
Servings Prep Time
4 people 20 minutes
Cook Time
45 minutes
Ingredients
  • 2 lb your choice root vegetables peeled and cut in chunks
  • 1 whole garlic bulb
  • 4 tbsp olive oil
  • 4 tbsp creme fraiche or sour cream
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • salt/ black pepper
  • grated nutmeg freshly grounded
Servings: people
Instructions
  1. Heat the oven at 350F/180C Put the garlic bulb on a piece of foil, sprinkle with olive oil, wrap up and bake until very soft about 45 minutes. Take out of the oven and cool slightly. Cut the garlic bulb in half crosswise and squeeze out the garlic pulp from the skins.
  2. Put your choice of roots in a large pan of cold salted water. Bring to a boil and, with the lid on, simmer until tender. Test after 20 minutes. Each root will take more or less time.
  3. Drain and put back in the dry pan over low heat to steam out the wateriness.
  4. Using a food mill or a mixer, food processor or by hand, mash to a smooth puree. PS Potatoes don't do well in a blender, use a hand masher or you will get glue.
  5. Slowly beat the garlic purée, the oil and the cream, then the lemon. Season well and work until the purée is light and fluffy.
Recipe Notes

Purées can be prepped a couple of days in advance. They can be frozen and used for soups.

Use potatoes, celeriac, parsnip Jerusalem artichokes, sweet potatoes, carrots, turnips, rutabagas .
You can combine them or serve them together side by side.

You can add herbs, ginger horseradish or mustards.

Butter can be used instead of olive oil.

Share this Recipe
Continue Reading