Homemade Limoncello

“Liquid gold.”  That is the best way to describe this homemade limoncello.  It’s smooth, refreshing, and is oh-so-lemony.  In my opinion this drink is best enjoyed as an after-dinner sipping liquor (a little goes a long way!), but it’s also perfect for making a spritzer or adding to other cocktails.

This fantastic recipe comes from Gabriele Corcos and Debi Mazar.  I found this recipe several years ago on their blog, The Tuscan Gun, and have been making it ever since.  In the past 4 years my freezer has never been without a bottle of this limoncello…it’s that good!  And I’ve found that the longer it ages the smoother it gets, so I make sure my freezer is always well stocked.

And talk about an impressive homemade gift!  In previous years I’ve poured this limoncello into small bottles, added a cute tag, and given away to my friends and family.  I’ve certainly had no complains…well, except that maybe I should have used a larger bottle, ha!

The best thing about this recipe is how incredibly EASY it is!  It does take quite some time (and patience)…about 6 to 8 weeks from start to finish.  But the vast majority of that time is just waiting for the ingredients to work their magic.  The actual preparation is quick and easy!  And the end result?  Absolutely delicious!

Roasted Peach & Goat Cheese Crostini

Let me just start by saying that this might be one of the best appetizers that I’ve made in a really long time.  I realize that’s a tall statement, however this Roasted Peach and Goat Cheese Crostini is SO good.  I’m thankful I found my inspiration in the lovely white peaches I saw at the grocery store this afternoon because it’s the perfect topper to this beautiful crostini.

I admit, I’m a “carb-a-holic” so I’ll eat just about anything piled on a slice of toasted bread.  But the balance of flavors and textures in these particular toppings are out of this world and that makes this something special!  It all starts with a layer of rich creamy goat cheese.  Then it’s covered with a warm slice of roasted peach, drizzled with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze, and then topped with crunchy pecans and fresh thyme leaves.  Sweet, salty, creamy, crunchy, clean, and fresh…Need I say more?

Springtime Patio Makeover

Spring is finally upon us and that means lots of beautiful weather is in store!  If you’re like me, the warm sunny days and perfect crisp nights will have you itching to spend plenty of time outside.  Add some good company and a cocktail (or two) and I’m in paradise!

But I have to admit, after a dull winter and months of being ignored my so-called “outdoor oasis” was pretty disappointing.  Even after knocking the dust off the furniture and giving the patio a good cleaning I found that the space left a lot to be desired.  The solution?  An outdoor makeover, of course!  With a few inexpensive pieces and a little imagination I was able to turn my outdoor space from lackluster to charming!

Baked Asian Chicken Wings

When it comes to game day, chicken wings are a classic snack food! I think it’s safe to say that we all love a traditional buffalo hot wing, but every now and then it’s fun to shake things up a bit. These Baked Asian Chicken Wings are such a crowd pleaser! These are sweet, savory, meaty, and (literally) finger licking good.  And while absolutely delicious, the best part about this recipe is how easy they are to make!  You can have these wings on the table in just a matter of minutes!

Spinach Salad with Roasted Sweet Potatoes & Balsamic Honey Vinaigrette

Now that the holidays have come and gone it seems like we’re all trying to start off the new year with some healthier meal options.  I’m one of those people.  I’m looking to fill my plate with things that are light and nutritious but are still packed with comforting winter flavors.  This salad checks all those boxes!

One of the things I love about this salad is the contrast in flavor, texture, and temperature.  The spinach pairs nicely with the sweet pear, tart craisins, and the smokey bacon.  The pecans add a great crunch and the goat cheese is perfectly tangy and creamy.  However, the star of this salad is the warm roasted sweet potatoes piled on top.  It’s absolutely delicious finished with a quick balsamic honey vinaigrette.  I could eat this salad every day! 

Chicken Pesto Panini

I can’t think of a sandwich that I love more than a panini!  That’s why I was so excited when I received a griddle for Christmas this year that had a panini press function.  I wanted to try it out ASAP!  I had some leftover basil pesto in the fridge which is where the inspiration for this recipe came from.

If you like pesto and goat cheese then you will love this sandwich!  The pesto adds some freshness to the sandwich, the sun-dried tomatoes are chewy and sweet, and the goat cheese adds a perfect creaminess to the filling.  To me, this is total comfort food, especially when served with a nice glass of wine!