Candy on the Chic
May 7, 2008
Pure divine fruit preserved in the traditional way of Southern France, still today is within grasp in a delicious way. Of my travels, Nice has such a wonderful feel that can really be noticed at the Confiserie Florian through their creations. Keeping true to history and tradition, the factory is more than happy to guide you through the process- samples along the way a delight to enjoy.
A favorite of mine is the ostrich eggs- a velvety smooth chocolate wrapped in a fragile candy coating. Its all the right textures and balances that melt in just the right way- impossible to ignore or save for later, I devour them in an instant.
Fruit and Chocolate is grand- however do not miss the selection of candied flowers and liquors. Rose and Violet have always been a favorite of mine as a child- simply beautiful and delicate.
Nice alone is quite beautiful, and the Confiserie Florian is a direct reflection. Visit their site www.confiserieflorian.com and you can have them delivered to your home- such a convenience especially when the flight is so long.
Candy lovers everywhere, this is one to indulge and adore.
Balsamic Beauty
April 29, 2008
Beautiful and deliciously simple- a favorite of mine that will always be is a classic heirloom tomato and balsamic vinegar salad. Fancied up or just simple- it is absolutely divine and a must.
Heirloom tomatoes are wonderful- you know them, they are the tomatoes with the bright yellow and green colors in a variety of shapes and sizes. Combined with a few cherry tomatoes or those of your choice and then drizzled in an aged balsamic vinegar and you are in pure heaven.
Fancy it up a bit with some goat cheese or even a gruyere, some fresh basil leaves, and then maybe a few fresh slices of prosciutto-Mmmmmmmmmmm…. so rich!
If you want more of the salad feel, try some arugula or endive- make it your own and play around with the options but keep it simple with fresh ingredients.
Balsamic vinegar alone can be an experiment, with so many available and of different ages- find one you like if not a few. A different balsamic will make a completely different result every time.
Great by itself or wonderful paired up with other appetizers. The heirloom tomato & aged balsamic salad is a luxury too simple to avoid.
Gourmet Glamour
April 26, 2008
The sandwich is everywhere and in as many styles as the imagination allows. However, why limit such a delicious and simple creation to only the restaurants about town? The best consist of a few simple choice ingredients and are made with a little love.
There’s nothing to be afraid of, and use your creativity and taste to make one that speaks to you. Its great for parties and luncheons- invite some friends over to enjoy your new style, perhaps personalize some to them as well.
The simplest thing is to pick a fresh bread that you like, maybe a brioche from the bakery. Experiment with your greens, red cabbage or arugula are a few of my own favorites. Texture and color are fun- a soft bread with a crisp cabbage and maybe a melty cheese- mmm.. I adore gruyere or goat cheese myself. Maybe some balsamic and cherry tomatoes, too. It doesn’t have to be perfectly neat- a little mess can be pretty appetizing as well.
Here’s a star from Eric Greenspan’s restaurant in LA that needless to say looks quite delicious. So experiment in the restaurants and coffee shops and then bring the inspiration home for you and your loved ones. Make every day a little more special with just a touch of detail.
Here’s to more inspiring bites.
Honey, Honey
April 25, 2008
Mmmmm… so delicious and yes, actually- so very good for you. Especially local honey that has been unfiltered. Nothing clears up the sinuses like a spoon of local honey- it naturally helps your body adapt and adjust to the regions air and pollen. It is beneficial remedy to fatigue, stress, pain and asthma and even known to ease a hangover.
Honey is naturally loaded with vitamins and minerals and is easy to digest as it has been previously digested by the bees. That means no work for your body, only accepting the beautiful nutrients it has to offer-including lots of antioxidants.
Yummy- absolutely yummy. It also holds potassium, and as bacteria cannot survive in it- it will never go bad.
And for your skin- it both attracts and retains moisture vital to healthy skin; think of it as a natural toner. Its also a natural anti-irritant which means avoiding the worries chemicals bring. In fact, the natural healing qualities are beneficial to scars and burns.
Two tablespoons a day will do wonders for you, I encourage it in both taste and health. Its too delicious to pass up.
Remember, it isn’t for babies but great for adults.
