Happy Thanksgiving Everyone

Anyone who enjoys food has to agree that Thanksgiving is one of the best holidays on the calendar. The turkey, stuffing, massed potatoes, and everything else makes this a great day. I hope you are as fortunate as I am today to be surrounded by your family and to truly know what you are thankful for.

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone. Enjoy.

Pizza Night!

It’s Friday night and that can only mean one thing...Pizza Night. Now, living in the New York-metropolitan area, I would argue that we have the best pizza anywhere. Not that fast food pizza advertised on television – pizza made by the hands of local experts. While I do love local pizza, but I enjoy making my own more.

In the interest of time I most often but frozen dough at the grocery store and pull it out if the freezer that morning to defrost and rise so it’s ready that night. Pound it flat, perhaps toss it in the air a few times to show off to the girl and then cover with sauce and cheese. After about 15 minutes in a 450 degree oven you are all set! Doesn't get much easier than that.

Of course, making it at home also allows you to get creative with toppings and sauces. Here are my favorites:
- Margarita Garlic
- Presto & Chicken
- Roasted Red Pepper
- Mushroom & Onion
- BBQ Chicken
- Kitchen Sink

Next time you are thinking pizza, make your own and get creative. Enjoy!

Snack Time!

Sunday afternoons in the fall usually mean wings, nachos and beer while watching football. This weekend, however, it was a little different. With my Eagles not kicking off until the evening, the girl and I decided to explore a local Italian market a friend recently told us about.

In a neighborhood filled with Italian culture, we were excited about exploring this well-known local place, but had no idea what we were in for. Its my understanding that Corrado's Market has been in business for over 50 years with two locations - Clifton and Wayne.

As soon as we entered we were taken aback be the giant cheese display that included fresh mozzarella being made right in front of you. The entire store continued to amaze with delicious I didn't even know existed. With smiles, we piled cheeses, cured meats and fresh pasta dishes into our cart. Like children we pointed different things out to each other and planned meals for the week.

When we got home we could not decide what to eat and decided to go with a little from column A and a little from column B.

With a glass of red wine we toasted our new find and the buffet of a snack ahead of us (see picture).

I love finding new places like that and will be back soon. I encourage you to check out Corrado's or explore your town for local stand-out places. Enjoy!

Candied Jalapeño Jelly – No, I’m Not Kidding

Wow, it’s so good I have to blog about it!

At a recent party the girl and I hosted, a friend presented me with a gift – bow and all – and as she handed it to me she looked as though she was going to burst with excitement. "I had to bring this back for you," she said. "I had them when visiting San Antonio and thought of you. You have to try them."

At this point, my excitement and curiosity has peaked! Texas has great food – San Antonio, Houston, Austin, and everywhere in between. I opened the gift to find a jar filled with sliced peppers and a gold label that read, Candied Jalapeño Jelly. Now, everyone knows I love peppers and I don't know anyone who doesn't like jelly...but together?!?

Now, some people have issues with sweet and sour or sweet and hot – this was a little of both. My friend proceeded to spread a little light cream cheese over a cracker and then topped it with a scoop of the candied green peppers and handed it to me. I was skeptical, but as my grandmother always said, 'the devil hates a coward."

One bite and I was a believer. It was all I had hoped – hot, sweet, cold, spicy – all at the same time. Now, I enjoy some strange foods, but this time it wasn't just me. After hearing the build-up, everyone at the party had to try it. By the end of the night, unfortunately, we nearly finished off the jar – it was that good.

Two things to remember: First, you have to try it before making a judgment. Second, if you are ever in San Antonio, bring a bottle back for your friends...and one more for me!