Garden Update - May 2019 : Flowers Oh my!
So, it is a chance to start anew! Make it our own, which, is actually great. Because at this point, we have basically gutted this 35 year old house into something entirely and uniquely ours! My heart sings. And, every muscle in my body aches. LOL.
I decided to tackle the little space by the driveway first. In a way, this was also my proof of concept space; a little nook that would get me started on the learning journey of what was out there and what I liked. What a fascinating journey it has been and continues. For this space, I wanted a cozy, inviting look, as after all, it is first spot you pause on coming to the house. So I went the eternal rose as the center piece…
Two Bean Chicken Casserole
This casserole, is simply layers of love - from the richly browned and crisped chicken thighs, to the caramelized mushrooms, the depth of sage and the richness of a double bean stew. Pour yourself a glass of crisp white, because it is that kind of saucy indulgence - cold wine, warm belly!
Spring in My Tart - Salmon & Asparagus Vol au Vent + Lemon Mustard Glaze
Spring has arrived! Today I spotted a blue jay, which, has always been the true marker of Spring. The Cardinals brighten a winter landscape and the blue dashes with Spring’s riot of green! And with that, it is almost binary switch in my kitchen. I want more green on my plate, more vegetables and more fresh looking and tasting stuff. I am not sure how much I can garden this year, as last year’s patch has been completely razed and no longer viable. So, I am definitely focusing on being more mindful of getting produce that is in-season in the local environs (North East for me and ignoring California!). I am also angling towards quicker meals that allow me more time with family and yet bring a touch of special….
Puff Pockets With Roasted Tomato and Whipped Mascarpone
Rather impressed with what had been delivered on my Instagram feed, I allowed myself to go with the flow and tweak to my pantry! Roasted cherry tomatoes with rosemary draped over a cheese filled pastry shell. Divine! That’s all folks.
Val D'Orcia - A secret garden of Magic!
Val d’Orcia - Well, it is in Tuscany but it isn’t a district you hear about a lot compared to say Siena or, well, Florence :). And yet, it is stunning as these photos attest. You would find it if you embarked on the scent of Montepulciano, Brunello do Montalcino or Rosso di Montalcino. Its the agrarian belt of the region with rolling hills like the rest of Tuscany but also very productive ones that grow primarily grains, legumes and beans. And, yes wine too! Val d’Orcian wines are not well-known outside the region but they are just as spectacular as the neighbors’!