Feb 2023 | Culinary Lifestyle Round-Up
Pasta, Pasta Bowls, Oregon Pinot Noir, and MORE...!
Each month, I gather helpful and interesting tidbits relating to food, wine, kitchen tools or tips, articles or books, and music that help shape my culinary lifestyle. Use them as guides and inspiration. And, feel free to share some of your own.
I currently receive no compensation for any products or brands listed here. I simply enjoy sharing the information.
FOOD
I came across Batistini Farms, located in Winston-Salem NC, just over a year ago. I’ve had such fun using and sharing their high-quality food products with others. I love that they are a “mission-based company, advocating for healthier lifestyles and sharing real ingredients”.
Batistini Farms features organic pasta made from ancient grains, extra virgin olive oil, and aged balsamic vinegar - all sourced from small family producers in Italy.
SPECIAL OFFER FOR LCK Cooking Well READERS! Use promo code LCK15 at checkout to receive a 15% discount on one order from Batistini Farms. Offer good from February 22 - March 12, 2023.
WINE
Oregon Pinot Noirs are a big favorite on my wine list. Depending on where the grapes are grown, this medium-bodied wine may present bright, floral, and possibly spicy flavors, or dark, rich, and elegant tones, with a slight earthiness. Pinot Noir pairs well with so many foods - cheeses, vegetables, salmon, poultry, bbq, mushrooms, legumes, pizza and pasta, stews, and more - so it’s easy to open one and enjoy.
I was fortunate to have the opportunity to take a deep dive into Pinot Noirs when my husband and I lived in Oregon. Soon after moving there, it became evident that we had a good deal to learn. Between nifty wine bars in downtown Portland, and the Willamette Valley just outside, it was easy to explore and educate our palates. And, explore and educate we did, tasting some of the best.
Here are some of my favorites…but truly, this isn’t even the tip of the iceberg. With over 700 wineries in the Willamette Valley alone, there are many others! Some of these may be available in your local wine shop, or purchases can be made through the wineries online.
USEFUL DINNERWARE
Low, Wide Soup and Pasta Bowls are one of the most versatile pieces in my dinnerware collection. The ones in my cabinet are wide-rimmed, white bone china from Mikasa called Lucerne. I find the size to be so versatile - 9 inches wide with a 24-ounce capacity.
Beyond serving soup, stew, or pasta in these bowls, use them to build a terrific grain bowl or salad, to cradle an entree such as fish on a bed of veggie or soba noodles with a complimentary sauce, or to present a favorite rice dish such as creamy risotto.
With so many styles available, there’s sure to be one (or probably more) to tickle your fancy. Here are a few additional ideas:
COOKING TIP
I’ve not seen this technique before, but I definitely need to try it!
The Best Way to De-Seed a Pomegranate is Also the Most Therapeutic from The Washington Post.
MUSIC
And, a fun remix to add to your cooking playlist… Cold Heart by Elton John and Dua Lipa.
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