Football Mania: Mixed Stuff Peppers

The big game is just a little over a week away! Have you started planning your game day snacks yet? Whether you're a football fanatic or just in it for the commercials, the feast is undeniably one of the main attractions of the day in my opinion. Last week I shared the recipe for my Hot Swiss and Almond Dip, the perfect dip for the cheese lover in the group. This week I'm sharing another favorite recipe from the Football Mania menu in Domestic Chíc, colorful and lean Mixed Stuff Peppers!

These are beautiful as part of a sit down meal, or you can use mini bell peppers to create a great finger food option for the snack table. Just make sure to serve hot! 

Also, don't forget to wake up with me tomorrow morning & tune in to the Today Show at 8:50am!

Mixed Stuffed Peppers

Ingredients:

  • 6 Medium sized Bell Peppers (assorted colors, red, yellow and green) (You can also use 16 mini bell peppers to achieve a finger food presentation)
  • 3/4 pound lean ground turkey
  • 3/4 pound lean ground beef
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 cup long-grain white (or brown) rice cooked
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 small onion, grated
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Directions:

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Heat 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Sauté garlic and onions and cook until softened, about three to four minutes. Add the beef, turkey, oregano, and cumin. Cook through until no longer pink. Drain grease out. Stir in tomato paste. Season with sea salt and freshly ground pepper. Sprinkle in 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese..

Wash peppers and cut off tops. With a pairing knife remove the seeds and core and any white pith connected to the flesh. Rinse inside of pepper and place in a baking pan. Cook peppers for twenty - twenty five minutes until edges have softened. Combine the meat filling and cooked rice. Fill the peppers, adding additional Parmesan cheese. Place back in oven and cook for twenty more minutes. Pour heated marinara sauce over peppers and serve.

Football Mania: Hot Swiss and Almond Dip

Every party has a different kind of menu, and this is especially true when it comes to football season! Let's be honest, no one wants to eat a salad while they watch a football game - but that doesn't mean you can't take steps to serve delicious snacks that are a little more health conscious! For the next few weeks I'll be sharing recipes from the "Football Mania" Menu in Domestic Chíc that are both delicious and light. 

First up is my favorite Hot Swiss and Almond Dip that goes perfectly with a toasted baguette. Feel free to use low-fat items to cut calories but keep the taste and wow your guests. See the full recipe below, and stay tuned for more of my game day recipes!

Hot Swiss and Almond Dip


Ingredients:
2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened (to cut calories use low-fat)
1 1/2 cups shredded Swiss Cheese (to cut calories use reduced fat)
3 tablespoons chopped green onion
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 cup sliced almonds, toasted

Directions:
Mix all ingredients, leaving 1/2 cup toasted almonds aside. Blend well. Spread mixture into a 9-inch pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 15 minutes. Garnish with remaining 1/2 cup toasted almonds. Serve with toasted baguette.

Turn on the game and enjoy!

I also wanted to announce that Domestic Chíc is now available at Sam's Club, so grab your copy today and get ready for the big game!

NYC Restaurant Week & Classic Meatballs Recipe

Theater-5839.jpg

I am a huge proponent of trying new foods and restaurants as often as possible. If you don't try new things, how will you know what you like?

Restaurant Week is the perfect time to try new restaurants for the first time, because you can get a great idea of what their menus have to offer. If you haven't been to Bocca di Bacco yet, or even if you have, join us for NYC Restaurant Week in the Theatre District from January 18th to February 5th for lunch or dinner! Choose from a wide array of items on the three-course menu - and of course, I recommend perusing the wine list for the perfect accompaniment. 

If you aren't in New York or can't make it, don't worry! I am bringing a little Bocca di Bacco to you this week. One of my favorite items on the Restaurant Week menu is our Polpette al Pomodoro, Classic Meatballs in a Tomato Sauce. See the recipe below for my favorite meatballs, and book for Restaurant Week today! Buon Appetito!

POLPETTE AL POMODORO

CLASSIC MEATBALLS IN TOMATO SAUCE

Ingredients: 

  • 1 pound veal
  • 1 pound ground sirloin, lean
  • 1 cup bread crumbs, Italian seasoning
  • 2 eggs
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan Cheese
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 3 scallions, sliced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh Italian flat leaf parsley, chopped
  • 3 slices of bread soaked in milk for at least 30 minutes. Then squeezed to drain excess liquid 
  • 1 cup tomato sauce

Directions:

Mix together veal and ground sirloin. Finely chip three scallions and mix with chopped mint leaves and parsley. Add this to the meat mixture along with eggs, garlic and cheese. Add drained bread slices and additional Italian seasoning breadcrumbs. Add tomato sauce until desired consistency. 

Shape meatballs. You can either brown them in a samll amount of oil or, for a healthier twist, place meatballs on a greased baking sheet, and heat oven to 350 degrees. Bake for four minutes on each side then put some in sauce to simmer. Serve hot & enjoy!

New Year's Resolutions

We are already a week into January and if you haven't made your New Year's Resolutions yet, it's time to begin! Making resolutions and goals for the new year can sometimes be stressful or make you feel under pressure, but I like to look at them as ways to make a great life even better. The first step is to stay positive and remember that we are all trying our hardest! If you need a few ideas, here are my favorite resolutions to keep a healthy mind, body and soul in 2016:

1. When it comes to diet, make sure to plan ahead. When you're getting back on a nutritious eating plan, it's crucial to prep ahead and have all your meals and snacks planned out. Start with pulling your favorite healthy recipes together, planning meals for each day, and making a grocery list for the week. During the work week, have meals and snacks ready in the fridge so you know you'll eat nutritious foods on a regular pattern. Fill your meals with fresh fruits and vegetables - the more colorful your plate is, the better!

2. Healthy Mind. Make sure you're taking daily "ME" time. For at least 30 minutes a day, hide your phone and do something for yourself. For me, that might mean checking out a new cookbook, taking a walk, cooking a favorite dish for fun, or anything else that clears my head and helps me disconnect from the busy world for a while. Whatever this may be for you, make sure you're giving yourself time to breathe and relax every day - the rest of your day will be that much more productive!

3. Try something new. Now more than ever is a great time to try a new hobby, take a trip, or start a new project. No more putting it off! You'll never know unless you try and the beginning of a new year is the time to do it. From photography to deep sea diving, you owe it to yourself to give it a shot!

What are your New Year's Resolutions this year? 2016 is already off to an amazing start and I can't wait to see where it takes us! 

 

 

 

New Year's Eve Party

Tomorrow is the last day of 2015, and what a year it has been! From publishing my book to debuting the Cellini apron line, this has been an unforgettable year in every way and I'm already planning to make 2016 even bigger & even better. Thank you all for coming along for the ride, and get excited for more things to come in the next year!

What better way to celebrate an incredible year than to throw a glittery, sparkly New Year's Eve party? Read on for a few of my favorite New Year's DIY and recipe ideas! 

I love any DIY that reuses wine bottles, so this centerpiece idea definitely caught my eye! All you need is a little spray paint, some fun ribbon, and some numbers to add on top! 

Set up a beautiful, fully stocked bar cart at the entrance to your home so your guests can grab a glass, bottle, or party favor as soon as they walk in the door! This gets the festive vibes going right away so they will stay going all night. 

I love the idea of reliving the best moments of the year with family and friends, and this game does just that! The best part is - you can print it out for yourself here

Throwing a sit-down dinner party? Stick with black and white patterns with shiny gold accents for a classy and simple tabletop! 

Looking for a deliciously simply appetizer for your New Year's Eve party? Try my recipe for Bacon Wrapped Dates with Bleu D'Auvergne for the perfectly mouth-watering addition to your spread!

See you in the new year! 

Happy Holidays!

Can you believe it's already Christmas Eve? The holiday season is here in full force and I am so ready to relax and disconnect for a few days! It's been a great few weeks of travel, holiday festivities with my team, and cooking my holiday favorites - and now it's time to sit back and enjoy the season. Snuggles with Carlito Vino included, of course!

If you're still looking for a few recipes to wow your family tomorrow, make sure to try my Crab Cakes or recipes for an easy and delicious dinner! Guaranteed to impress the in-laws. 

 

It's been a great year and I can't wait to see what's next - thank you for following along! From my family to yours, Happy Holidays! 

 

Black Bufala Mozzarella

Did you catch my segment on Fox5NY yesterday? I had such a great time giving a chef's perspective of the New York restaurant scene and talking a little bit about one of Bocca di Bacco's much-loved feature, our Black Bufala Mozzarella!

We import this exclusive cheese into the US just for our Theatre District and Hell's Kitchen locations, and it really is such a unique culinary experience. As a chef, I have to think about so many things when deciding to bring a new ingredient into the mix. Will we sell out every night? What will I pair it with? Will people keep coming back for it? In this case, yes! 

This cheese is infused with volcanic ash and gets its unique color as it ages, and pairs perfectly with our delicious speck and warm crostini - and a glass of wine, of course!

Watch the full segment here, and come by Bocca di Bacco to try out this exclusive plate! If you are still shopping for the holidays, make sure you order your Cellini aprons today to get them in time for Christmas. Nothing better to find underneath the tree! 

Crab Cake Recipe & Events in California

One of the best parts of my job is getting to share my passion for food and my favorite recipes with friends old and new, which is why I love getting to participate in book signings and cooking demonstrations! Last week I brought Domestic Chíc to Bloomingdales at 59th street and Lexington and shared my delicious recipe for Crab Cakes. I had a great time meeting everyone and enjoying this dish together. If you couldn't make it, don't worry - I've included the recipe below!

This weekend, I am off to California to enjoy the sun! If you are in the Newport or LA area, come say hi at one of the dates below:


12/12: Bloomingdale's at Newport Beach
12/12: Barnes and Noble at Newport Beach
12/13: Bloomingdale's at Century City
 

Crab Cakes:

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound crabmeat
  • 1 cup shrimp
  • 1/2 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
  • 1 cup Panko bread crumbs
  • 3 green onions, chopped
  • 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper (red, yellow)
  • 1 egg
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 lemon juiced
  • 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic
  • Dash cayenne pepper
  • Flour for dusting
  • 4 tablespoons balsamic glaze
  • Sea salt & freshly ground pepper to taste

Directions

In a large bowl mix together crabmeat, green onions, bell pepper, egg, mayonnaise. For the shrimp, heat 1/2 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil over medium heat and add 1 teaspoon minced garlic. Add shrimp and sauté tow to three minutes until cooked. Add shrimp to crabmeat mixture.

In a separate bowl whisk together Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, Dijon mustard a dash of cayenne and 1 tablespoon minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper. Pour liquid into crabmeat mixture and thoroughly combine. Shape mixture into patties, and lightly dust with flour, then roll into Panko bread crumbs. These can be prepared earlier in the day and kept in the refrigerator. Heat canola oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once oil is hot, place crab cakes in the oil and turn after four to five minutes or until golden brown. Warm balsamic glaze and drizzle over crab cakes. Serve warm.

 

Cioppino for the Holidays

White wine, olive oil, garlic and fresh seafood - need I say more?

Cioppino is one of my favorite dishes to serve in the winter. It is hearty and comforting without being heavy, which makes it the perfect dish to serve in between large holiday meals. The seafood and tomato come together to create the perfect broth just bursting with flavor, and the best part? One pot. That's more time with family and less time on dishes! See my recipe for the perfect Cioppino below!

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound manila clams, scrubbed
  • 1 pound mussels, scrubbed, de-bearded
  • 1 pound uncooked large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 1/2 pounds halibut cut into 1 inch cubes
  • 1 sweet onion, chopped
  • 3 large shallots, chopped
  • 1 large fennel bulb, sliced
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (add more for extra spice)
  • 1/4 cup tomato paste
  • 1 can (28-ounce) diced tomatoes in juice
  • 1 cup dry white wine
  • 5 cups fish stock
  • 1 bay leaf

Directions:

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add fennel, onion, shallots and sea salt. Sauté until the onion is translucent. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, and sauté for another one to two minutes. Add tomatoes with their juice, tomato paste, wine, fish stock and bay leaf. Bring to a simmer for 45 minutes. Add the shrimp and fish and continue on medium - low heat for another 10 minutes. Add the clams and mussels until they are completely open, stirring gently. Ladle and serve!

If you're looking for more recipes perfect for the holidays, I have a few events this week where I'll be sharing culinary demonstrations and featuring my kitchen couture apron line, CELLINI! Join me at Bloomingdale's at 59th and Lex tomorrow from 6-8pm or this Saturday at Bloomingdale's at Bergen County from 12-2pm to learn more. I'd love to meet you!


Black Friday Gift Shop

I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving Day! What was your favorite thing you ate? I'm partial to the side dishes, but can't forget the dessert!  Now, it's a whole different kind of holiday: Black Friday!

If you're like me, you'll choose staying cozy at home with leftovers  over waking up at the crack of dawn to shop with the crowds - but that doesn't mean you have to miss out on all the deals! For a limited time, we're offering up to 35% off gifts in our Black Friday Gift Shop! Just enter the codes above when you purchase for epic savings on the perfect gifts for the foodies in your family. Now all you have to do is wrap it! 

Gift Ideas

With Black Friday only a week away and Christmas coming up quick, I'm already starting to think of the perfect gifts for the people in my life! I've always loved giving gifts and spending hours making, customizing, or shopping for that perfect present that I know will make someone's face light up when they open it. It really is the best feeling!

If the idea of finding that perfect gift causes you stress, I can help! Our Cellini gift boxes are a great solution for the cook, hostess-with-the-mostest, and entertainer in your life. With a copy of Domestic Chíc and a signature "Dolce" apron in a beautifully packaged, elegant embossed gift box, your loved one will be so excited to find this under the tree! Not to mention, they may just make you some of the recipes in my book...the gift that keeps on giving :)

Order your box set now and check that gift off your list! Here's to a stress-free, beautiful holiday season. Cheers!

Thanksgiving Decor Ideas

Can you believe Thanksgiving is less than two weeks away? Before you know it, we'll be wrapping Christmas gifts and baking gingerbread men - I can't wait!

But before that, we need to get our table set for a beautiful Thanksgiving feast! You can find plenty of decor and entertaining tips in my book, but here are a few decor ideas and DIYs I've had my eye on over on Pinterest this week:

It can be overwhelming to choose a style for your Thanksgiving table, which is why I recommend starting with your color palette and going from there. Narrow down your ideas to one color set and one style (rustic, modern, minimalist, etc) and then DIY away! 

Barnes & Noble Maker Faire

I love being a part of events that celebrate makers of all kinds, so I am thrilled to join the Barnes & Noble Maker Faire in Holmdel, NJ today! I'll be cooking one of my favorite recipes and of course giving you some tips on decor and entertaining for fall! Join me at this fun event today or, if you're far, follow along the fun with the #bnmakerfaire hashtag or my Instagram @kristinsollenne. Have a great weekend! 

Creative Pumpkin DIY Ideas

Pumpkins are everywhere right now and I definitely don't mind. From lattes and breads to candles and decor, pumpkins are taking over October! As someone who fully embraces each season when it comes to cooking and home decor, I'm having a great time incorporating pumpkins into our fall lifestyle!

I have fond memories of carving pumpkins as a kid, and carving is definitely the traditional choice for your pumpkin patch finds--but if you're ready to try something new, read on to see some of my favorite ideas to do with your extra pumpkins this year! 

Photo via Sincerely Sara D.

1. Paint your Pumpkins. Carving is fun, but it can be messy and time-consuming...and what if orange doesn't match your decor? Tape off your pumpkin in stripes or polka dots before painting, like the tutorial above, get detailed with a stencil, or go free-hand! 

Photo via The Glitter Guide

2. Add some lettering for extra personality. Whether it's a thought of thanksgiving, like this pretty pumpkin, a monogram for your family name, or a silly "BOO!", this is a quick way to add some personality to your pumpkin without taking away much of the natural color and look!

Photo via 17 Apart

Photo via 17 Apart

3. Drill & light! Feel like using a power tool for a bit? Gut & clean up your pumpkin before drilling small holes into your pattern of choice, then simply place some tea lights inside for a beautifully chic Jack-O-Lantern

Photo via Half Baked Harvest

4. Use them as serving bowls. There is nothing like food served inside other food. Clam chowder in a bread bowl, anyone? Start your Halloween or Thanksgiving dinner with a soup course served in individual pumpkin bowls to instantly hold the title of "Hostess with the Mostest". 

Photo via Hibrid Blog

Photo via Hibrid Blog

5. Make them into planters. Scoop out the insides, add some soil, and plant your favorite succulents or cacti in small pumpkins for a beautiful addition to a table setting, window sill, or coffee table! You can even give these as party favors to your holiday guests! 

What are you doing with your extra pumpkins this year?


Making Time for Yourself in a Busy Season

It has been a busy year. Between writing, publishing, and promoting Domestic Chíc; designing and premiering Cellini, my couture apron line; travel; events; and more, I can't believe how quickly time is flying by. I love how busy my life is right now, but sometimes it can be hard to take time to center yourself when so much is going on around you! I have a few secrets to making time for myself in this busy season:

  • Wake up just a little bit earlier. This can be so hard to do when you want that extra sleep, but I've found it really is the best way to start out the day. Whether you spend that extra 15 minutes sipping a mug of coffee and reading or chatting about the day with your loved ones, that time away from the rest of the world can get you centered and ready to take on whatever the day has in store.
  • Schedule time with friends and family, and keep your plans. If you have vague plans with friends and family, it can be easy to push that time away to finish projects instead. Make concrete plans for exact times and stop working in time to keep those plans. Taking a break to chat and laugh over a glass of wine will do wonders for your creativity and therefore productivity!  
  • Get away from it all for a real lunch break. Studies show that getting away from your desk or home or wherever you work for a real lunch break greatly improves your work in the afternoon. Stepping away from your projects or appointments for even half an hour and taking time to eat or take a walk, even grab a latte, can do wonders for the rest of your day!
  • Prioritize the hobbies you love. Do you love to craft? Have recipes you want to perfect before the holidays? Maybe it's working out or volunteering - whatever your hobbies are that fill your soul, make time for them. Whether it's once a week or once a month, you will thank yourself later!
  • If possible, unplug for a weekend. This one is especially hard, but if you are able to disconnect for a few days, do it! Turn off your email notifications, log out of Instagram, and take time to simply be. For me, this means cooking and relaxing with my family. Those times mean so much to me!

What are your tips for taking time for yourself in busy times?

 

Bocca di Bacco Prix Fixe Lunch

Monday always comes too soon, but here we are ready to start a new week! I hope you all had a great weekend and are ready to take on whatever this week brings - I know I am!

Particularly in the beginning of the week, we often find we have lots to do and forget to eat a proper lunch - yes, even chefs do this! It is so important to take the time to step away from your desk and take a real lunch break, as much for your stomach as for your mind. A little time away causes you to be refreshed and thinking creatively for the remainder of the afternoon, believe me. 

If you are in the city and in search of the perfect lunch break, join us at Bocca di Bacco this week for a featured prix fixe menu! This delicious three-course menu is only $25 person and features classic Italian dishes with a contemporary spin - my favorite! For example, you can start your lunch with our Asparagi alla Bismark: boiled asparagus, an over-easy egg, prosciutto & Parmesan in a white wine sauce.

The menu also features classic Italian entrees like  Spaghetti alla Carbonara  and Pollo Parmigiana, as well as wines of the week and dessert. I can't wait to enjoy this mini Italian feast for lunch this week - won't you join me?

NYC in the Fall

October snuck up on us and Fall is finally starting to show its face in New York! As you know, I love to organize recipes and entertaining tips seasonally, so I get excited about each transition into the next season. What's on the menu for Fall? You'll have to pick up your copy of Domestic Chíc to find out! ;)

Of course, Fall brings back the crisp weather, rainy days, hot coffee and comfort foods. It can be tempting to stay inside and watch movies as the weather turns, but NYC is full of things to do as the days grow shorter! Here are a few of my favorites Autumn activities in the city:

  • Watch the Fall colors change. Time Out NY shared a list of the best places to see Fall Foliage in New York, and I can't wait to take a Sunday drive or a walk through Central Park to see the amazing hues of the trees! 
  • Try a new recipe or technique. From making homemade pasta to perfecting your apple pie recipe, Fall is a great time to teach yourself new things in the kitchen! Not only does it warm up the house and fill the rooms with delicious Autumn aromas, but you may just find your new favorite dish right in time for the holidays. 
  • Go see a show. Instead of staying in on one of those darker Autumn evenings, get a little dressed up and head to the Theatre District for a show..and don't forget to stop at Bocca di Bacco TD on the way for dinner and drinks!
  • Do the DIY. If you're anything like me, you've got tons of craft and home ideas piled up on Pinterest. Invite a girlfriend over, pull out the supplies, and spend a cozy afternoon creating something beautiful for your home! 

What are your favorite Fall activities? From apple picking to pumpkin carving, I'm eager to dive right in to this beautiful season! 

Italian Stuffed Artichokes

In preparation for World Vegetarian Day, we wanted to provide our readers with a delicious recipe. Artichokes usually are served quite plain. Let us show you how to fill them with delicious ingredients.

Italian Stuffed Artichokes

Prep Time: 20 mins | Cooking Time: 45mins

Ingredients

  • 6 large artichokes
  • 6 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 10 cups Italian seasoned bread crumbs
  • 1 1/2 cups freshly grated Parmagiano-Reggiano
  • 1 cup chopped green onions
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh Parsley leaves
  • 10 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons sea salt
  • 1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 tablespoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 6 lemon slices

Directions

In a large bowl add 6 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, green onions, parsley, garlic, sea salt, pepper and cayenne pepper. Thoroughly combine. 

Cut about 3/4 inch off the tops of each artichoke. With your scissors, snip off the pointed ends of each artichoke leaf. Rub a lemon on the cut ends to prevent browning. Slice off the stern end of each artichoke so that they sit up straight. Spread the leaves of each artichoke as much as possible and pack in a generous amount of bread stuffing. Stand them in a roasting pan that is just large enough to hold them in a single layer. Add water to a depth of 1 1/2 inches.

Pour remaining olive oil over each artichoke, letting it seep in. Top each artichoke with a slice of lemon. Bring the water to a boil, cover, reduce heat and steam the artichokes approximately one hour or until the leaves pull off easily. Check the water level after about 25 minutes. Sprinkle grated Parmagiano Reggiano cheese over the top before serving. 

This recipe, along with others can be found in Kristin Sollenne's cookbook, Domestic Chíc. If you are interested in learning more about the book or would like to purchase a copy, click here.

Share with us your favorite artichoke recipes!

CELLINI NEWS UPDATE

Bloomingdale's Appearances

After a successful appearance at Bloomingdale's at the 59th street location in Manhattan, Chef Kristin Sollenne will be at the Short Hills Bloomingdale's this Saturday at 12pm. 

Holiday Exclusive | Domestic Chíc | CELLINI Box Set

Our holiday gift box is now available for purchase. Be sure to get your gift box set for your friends and family before they sell out! 

Includes:

  • Domestic Chic Cookbook 
  • Dolce Apron 

Retails at $99.99

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bloomingdales

Somebody pinch me. Ever since my book hit the shelves I have been lucky enough to take part in so many amazing opportunities, and I am feeling so grateful! 

This past weekend I had my official Bloomingdales launch in New York, where I shared a recipe from Domestic Chíc for mixed mushroom truffle oil crostini's with Camembert from The Cheeses of Europe. It was so fun to demonstrate the recipe, and everyone loved the dish! 

Dolce was the weekend's featured apron for the gift sets, and I think she enjoyed her time in the spotlight. This piece is flirty and tailored with a beautiful pop of red, but it is also fully functional with deep chef's pockets on the sides. I made sure the Cellini collection is as practical for actual use as it is beautiful! 

This coming Saturday, I will be at Bloomingdales in Short Hills, NJ. Join me for a new recipe demonstration from Domestic Chíc and a chance to see my apron line in person!  

NYFW

photo via @fashionfarmboy

photo via @fashionfarmboy

Is there anything like New York Fashion Week?

From the shows and people watching to the dinners, drinks, and cab rides in between, the city is bustling more than ever during this busy week. There is truly no other time like NYFW, and you have to get out and enjoy every minute!

photo via @alpizarfashion

photo via @alpizarfashion

We had the honor of hosting many incredible shows at IL Bastardo this week, including my "Taste of Fashion" food & wine tasting with Robert Marchetti and Mauricio Alpizar. It was a blast to collaborate with these two on an amazing night, bringing all of our passions together to create an unforgettable evening! 

photo via @ldiphotography

photo via @ldiphotography

photo via @ldiphotography

photo via @ldiphotography

The designers & models who showed at IL Bastardo this week put on some stunning shows, and it is always fun to see the space turned into something new. Now, it's time to relax after a busy week!