I’m pretty sure there is no better flavor combination than the majestic trio of garlic, basil and tomato. Now I’ve never self-identified as an Italian-loving foodie, but when you fill the kitchen with the potent scent of garlic, freshly chopped basil, and oh-so-juicy home-grown tomatoes I’ll be the first say, “DELIZIOSO!”
So, you better believe that, when making homemade pizza last week, I couldn’t resist piling on this tasty trifecta of ingredients…plus some fresh mozzarella and artichoke hearts for good measure. What resulted was the above masterpiece of flavor, each steamy mouthful packed with basil-tomato-garlicky goodness. Oh, and playing classy Italian music in the background definitely completed the experience!
Food Literacy Fair
Looking for a way to get your family pumped about eating veggies? Take them to the Food Literacy Fair on September 14th!
“What is food literacy,” you ask? Food literacy means understanding the impact of your food choices on your health, the environment, and our community. Established in 2011, the Food Literacy Center is committed to educating and inspiring low-income children to eat their veggies and understand the importance of nutrition. Students learn fruit and vegetable appreciation, how to read nutrition labels, basic cooking skills and environmental impacts of their food choices.
In celebration of Food Literacy Month, local residents are invited to attend the Food Literacy Fair at Southside Park on September 14th. Enjoy live music from The Hoots, live cooking demonstrations featuring local kids and chefs, crafts, kids’ games, free food samples, veggie costumes, face painting, a photo booth, awards and the announcement of the Veggie of the Year!
Don’t miss the fun!
Food Literacy Fair
When: September 14 at 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Where: Southside Park (2115 6th St.)
Tickets: Free!
Wordless Wednesday: Farmer’s Market in Embrun, France
Seasons 52 Spring Menu
I just love the transformation of spring–warm evenings, sweet scents and blooming greenery. With all these sensory pleasures, the only thing left to crave is the taste of the season. At Seasons 52, my craving was fulfilled. Known for their seasonally-inspired menu, Seasons 52 introduces colorful flavors and textures that capture the best of each period. The other night I had the pleasure of experiencing their delicious spring menu.
We uncorked the evening with a glass of French Beaujolais-type wine, crafted exclusively for Seasons 52’s menu. My friend and I enjoyed the light and refreshing flavors of this wine and appreciated how nicely it paired with each course of our meal. Seasons 52 boasts an award-winning international wine list, and this glass surely did not disappoint.
Our first course included a crisp strawberry salad with bleu cheese and balsamic as well as the Chef’s twist on Tuna Tartare–a refreshing concoction of tuna, mango and wasabi avocado mousse drizzled with Sriracha. I’m a huge fan of raw fish, so this small bite was a tasty tease that left me eager for the next course.
When it came to choosing an entrée, I was tempted to say, “I’ll have them all.” Luckily, I brought a friend, so I could sample two mouth-watering dishes. On my plate: Oak-grilled Rack of Lamb with spring vegetables, Yukon Gold mashed potatoes and shallot jus. Lamb is a personal favorite and rare indulgence of mine, so I was in heaven as I carved into the tender meat and soaked each bite in creamed potatoes.
On my friend’s plate: Grilled Boneless Rainbow Trout with baby carrots, parsley roasted potatoes and grilled lemon. She was very pleased, noting that the fish was grilled to perfection. After having a taste, I had to resist the urge to sneak bites off her plate.
Usually, I say “no” to dessert. But when the waiter waltzes over with a boat of mini delights to choose from, my will-power crumbles. I chose the Butterscotch Budino (Italian for “pudding”) with Salted Caramel. It was indulgent and disappeared all too quickly.
For their seasonally-inspired and flavor-filled creations, I definitely recommend checking out Seasons 52. Just remember to bring a friend who’s willing to trade bites (I’m flexible on the “willing” part).
Seasons 52
1689 Arden Way
Sacramento, CA 95815
(916) 922-5252
Crawdads on the River
With warm whispers of spring and not-so-distant summer in the air, enjoying an evening along the river with a cocktail in hand doesn’t sound too bad.
Word on the street is Crawdads on the River has been newly remodeled and re-opened on March 14, promising tasty creations by executive Chef Adam Pechal of Restaurant Th13teen and Tuli Bistro. Crawdads’ innovative menu boasts flavorful dishes such as Mai Tai Chicken with Pineapple Rum Sweet & Sour Sauce, New Orleans inspired Crawfish Étouffée, and classic river cocktails with a few new twists.
So if you’re in the mood for expertly prepared seafood and delicious cocktails, make your way to the Riverbank Marina and enjoy an afternoon or evening meal on the water.
Crawdads on the River
1375 Garden Hwy
Sacramento, CA 95833
(916) 929-2268
Hours:
Sun – Thurs, 11 a.m. – 12 a.m.
Fri – Sat, 11 a.m. – 2 a.m.