Food List
Last March my friend Mark and I hosted an evening of food and wine for a select group of friends. Here is the menu I develped to compliment the wines he chose to serve.
Crispy Asparagus Straws
Prosciutto wrapped asparagus spears encased in flaky phyllo, sprinkled with Parmesan, and baked until golden brown. It’s got meat, cheese, bread, and vegetables…practically a meal in itself!
Deviled Mussels
Mussels that have gone to the devil! Unusual and addictive, with red pepper flakes, garlic, lemon zest, and plenty of ginger added for real zing.
Orange, Pistachio, and Black Olive Biscotti
Fennel and Golden Raisin Biscotti
The sweet versions of biscotti - the crisp, twice-baked Italian cookies traditionally dipped in dessert wine or coffee - are most familiar, but the dough is also very accepting of savory flavorings that are ideal for nibbling with a glass of medium-bodied red wine. (Perhaps even a little dunk when Mark isn’t looking!)
Italian Sausages with Mixed Peppers
You won’t find anything like this at Vinnie’s hot dog cart. Plump, locally made sweet Italian sausages browned and slowly poached in white wine. Served with plenty of green, red, and yellow bell peppers sautéed with garlic, red onions, and a healthy dose of oregano. Its vivid colors and rustic flavors make this Venetian dish a perfect addition to tonight’s event.
Sautéed Strawberries with Red Wine Black Pepper Sauce
Sweet fresh strawberries sliced and sautéed in butter, then bathed in a smooth red wine sauce with a hint of vanilla and spiked with a dash of black pepper. The flavor may not be what you were expecting, but just sit back and let it happen. Served over a scoop of gourmet vanilla ice cream.
