December 24, 2011
2009 Lamùri Nero D'Avola
It’s Christmas Eve and all the elves are busy wrapping presents, cooking and setting the family table for a special feast. Running all those last-minute errands to make sure Santa didn’t forget anything? Did you remember the wine? Because it’s not a party until someone brings the wine. Santa could certainly use a glass to warm him up tonight, even though it’s almost 50 degrees in the northeast. Whatever the temperature is outside, this Italian red is sure to please the most sophisticated wine enthusiast at your table.
Sicily’s signature grape is the Nero d’Avola. According to Serious Eats, Nero d’Avola is “often compared to Syrah both in flavor and its favored growing conditions, Nero d’Avola thrives in the island warmth of Sicily.” This red was perfectly fruity and a delicious match with dinner at our favorite BYOB Italian restaurant, Villaggio in Lahaska, Pennsylvania. At around $18.00 with a 91 rating from Wine Advocate, I’d recommend picking up a bottle (or a case) on your next trip to the wine store. This would make a lovely hostess gift if you’re visiting friends and family over the holidays.
Posted in DRINK, Wines we love |
2 Comments »
December 21, 2011
Decadent Hot Artichoke Dip
Do you have company coming for the holidays? Here’s an easy starter that requires little effort, with delicious results. This recipe was given to me by a very special friend. A long time ago she invited my family to spend Christmas Eve at her home. We’ve been showing up every year since. It’s become a tradition we really look forward to. One Christmas Eve, her eldest daughter whipped up this fantastic hot artichoke dip. With minimal persuasion they shared the recipe with me. It has become one of my go to appetizers that everyone loves. What’s particularly great about this recipe is that you can put it together the day before and store it in the refrigerator right in the baking dish. When you’re ready to serve, just throw it in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes and you’re done. I always serve this with Baked Tostitos Scoops tortilla chips. You can serve this with crackers or schmear it on crostini. I should warn you, this is not diet food. It’s decadent, sinful and cheesy – just perfect for the holidays.
INGREDIENTS
- 14oz can quartered artichokes packed in water, drained and roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, drained and chopped
- 8oz shredded swiss cheese (about 2 cups)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp grated parmesan cheese
- 2-3 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
Combine all the ingredients in a bowl and transfer to an 8 inch casserole.
Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and hot.
Can’t get any easier than that! Enjoy!
Posted in EAT, Starters |
7 Comments »
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