Homemade Mozzarella Pinwheels with Sundried Tomatoes & Fresh Basil

It was nearly a year ago when I was hovering over a stove with 10 other students. We all had one goal in mind…to learn the art of fresh mozzarella making. Ever since that faithful day, I’ve enjoyed serving the glorious white cheese for dinner parties. Explaining the preparation process is a wonderful conversation starter. [...]

Foodbuzz 24X24: An Intimate Celebration of Italian Flavor

Pittsburgh’s historic Strip District Market was alive with the energy of spring as I wove between the hoards of strollers and walkers to reach my favorite shops. I was a man on a mission to find the best ingredients for a dinner party I was hosting later in the evening. The clock was ticking and [...]

Cool Pesto Dipping Sauce with Toasted Pita

I long for the days when I can clip basil in my backyard. Thankfully the ground hog didn’t see his shadow this month. That means my desire for truly fresh herbs will be satisfied in the very near future. Until that time arrives, quality jarred pesto will have to serve as a suitable substitute. I [...]

Black Bean & Corn Salsa

It’s been really hard to break-away from the mountains of reading and writing that is required for my graduate classes. When I’m able to focus on an ounce of something different, I immediately start thinking about the number of chapters I could be finishing within that same time period. I mentioned this challenge to one [...]

Classic Deviled Eggs

I attended a fancy fundraiser dinner a couple of years ago for a local charity I support. It was the type of event where I was required to slip into my pinstriped suit and perfect tie that complemented my chocolate brown eyes. Somewhere between the silent auction and Bohemian dance troupe, white-gloved servers passed trays [...]

Caprese Skewers

The voices in my head debated long and hard about what to bring to a recent potluck gathering. A little birdie told me there would be the usual variety of dips, chips and sweets. Plus, there would be a few people who prefer the veggie side of life. I thought it would be nice to [...]

Kikkoman Tasty Turkey Party

Votive candles in small jelly jars reflected a twinkling glow along the walkway as my 12 guests arrived with monstrous appetites. It was an evening of foodie excitement that was sure to be full of tasty turkey, good conversation and a whole lot of wine. Many of my friends typically celebrate Thanksgiving with their families. [...]

Baby Burgers on Foodo

I love a really good burger regardless of its size, choice of toppings or seasonings. When I lived in Chicago my go-to burger joint was T’s in Andersonville. I would occasionally pony up to the bar on Monday’s for a double pint of Blue Moon and a ridiculously delicious burger with a side of garlic [...]

Bacon & Blue Dip

One of the ways I make entertaining look effortless is to always serve an easy and simple appetizer. It helps to keep my guests focused and entertained while I put the finishing touches on the meal. Best of all, appetizers keep my guests out of the kitchen and away from view should a mistake bubble [...]

Easy Dipping Oil

Go to any fancy Italian restaurant and you are sure to be greeted with a basket of crusty bread and fruity olive oil. You don’t have to put on your Sunday best to experience the same pleasure of tearing chunks of bread and plunging them deep into a shallow bowl of goodness. I wasn’t planning [...]

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