Wednesday, August 17, 2011

Fig-errific Summer

As seen Chez Eve - Fresh figs wrapped with prosciutto, sliced fresh mozzarella, a drizzle of olive oil, and a sprinkle of Italian herb blend. $4.50 a basket for those figs, but the price is soon forgotten when you eat one!
 I love those intense colors!
 And then the more subtle coral-y pinks.

An heirloom tomato, a peach, a plum, and some figs = summertime.
Craving this pizza so badly, I went down to Olio Pizzeria and sat at the bar by myself. I enjoyed my Moretti beer and this gorgeous Margarita D.O.C. pizza. It has "special" mozzarella on it...much creamier than the normal stuff! The tomato sauce is incredibly fresh and flavorful and the dough is amazing. I sprinkle a little oregano on top and sometimes drizzle a little homemade chili oil (even if it is a bit on the hot side for my palate). So, so, so very satisfying!

Tuesday, August 16, 2011

Home Cookin'

In the mood to make up a recipe, I seared a half a local, well-treated and fed chicken in my Le Creuset pot (which used to be my Papa's), threw in some shallots, carrots, thyme, diced Yukon potatoes, white beans, and a bit of white wine, lemon juice, and chicken stock. Each of those ingredients had their own moment in the pot so as to build layers of flavor. A couple lemon slices and some thyme on top of the chicken and into the oven the pot went for 45 minutes. Voila!
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It may have taken 3 pans to make my dinner-for-one, but it is worth it every single time! 2 Dover Sole filets ($1.75 total!) pan seared in butter with a little lemon juice and white wine. Steamed some Swiss Chard ($2.50) with salt and a little olive oil. Cubed and sauteed one Yukon potato (I threw in some mustard powder just out of curiosity and it added a lovely, earthiness to the potato and a subtle kick).
And ta-da! Dinner is served.

Monday, August 15, 2011

Sunbursts

Lately, at our plentiful Santa Barbara farmer's markets there have been these amazing, wildflower filled flower bouquets. I finally cracked and bought one last week for $7. Money well spent! Aren't these furry sunflowers fun? I can't help but smile every time I see them. Here's a little photo series so you can enjoy them too.



 Almost like flames...