Summertime Appetizers!

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It’s time for summertime appetizers!

Here’s a fantastic appetizer that’s perfect to serve while we take a breaking bread break (say that 10 times)!

I featured Bruschetta and Caprese on a stick appetizers at the ALA yesterday in Washington, DC. The perfect flavors to get the party started! A few simple and fresh favorites: basil, tomatoe and mozzarella.

The prep and plating, compliments of the staff of chef angels led by my friends Executive Chef, John Huppman and Devon Capilli, Senior Banquet Chef (JW Marriott 1331 Pennsylvania Ave). I could not have pulled off the perfect event without them! Imagine 100 degree weather “shlepping fresh mozzarella” to ALA – we made it just in time or a disaster of 20 lbs. of melting mozzarella on the streets of Washington! A funny version of Mozzarella Busters!

A quick tip: Go out and buy yourself a pot of basil and keep it on your window cill – basil is low maintenace (watering the base once a week and lots of sun light).

I know my friends and supporters at my talk enjoyed the appetizers! Thanks to my friend Mara for taking the video and photos. We will be posting them shortly!

a presto,

maria

ALA Talk is one day away!

Just a reminder that I will be presenting my cookbook at the ALA, tomorrow June 28th at 11:30am-12:30. Come join us for bruschetta and caprese salad!

Try the hot house tomatoes – fresh and in season. My basil pot is blooming and using fresh leaves to prepare my delicious antipasto!
On Feb 3rd., my post:

On Feb. 3rd, my blog for for bruschetta heaven:

Bruschetta Heaven = Bread + tomoto + basil + garlic + extra virgin olive oil

This is one antipasto that does not require translation. What’s not to love about this simple math of flavors. Simple, fresh and rustic…..the three words that best describes my book.

a presto,

maria

Bruschetta Heaven

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Bruschetta Heaven = Bread + tomoto + basil + garlic + extra virgin olive oil
This is one antipasto that does not require translation. What’s not to love about this simple math of flavors. Simple, fresh and rustic…..the three words that best describes my book.
Bruschetta is another recipe that I included in my upcoming book. I can’t wait to share it with you. The photo in my book is plated on a beautiful piece of morano glass. As they say “you eat with your eyes”.

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Don’t forget to use your favorite breads and don’t be afraid to try different types of olive oil! I’m amazed at the quality and selection from around the world. Treat yourself to some premium extra virgin olive oils from my cousin’s website http://www.oliveoilemporium.com/

The simple things as breaking bread with rustic flavors and sharing with your friends, family and a nice glass of wine is Bruschetta Heaven!
maria!