Resurrection

ChezHelvetica celebrated Easter (on the fourth day of Passover) with a trinity of family and multi-nationality of dishes. A Zaalook Salad from La Maison Arabe in Marrakech, Morocco (with Eggplant, Tomato, Paprika and Cumin) rested on Arugula and Spinach, framed by Deviled Eggs. (NB: The boiled egg’s origin can be seen in recipes as far back as ancient Rome.) Also of Italian inspiration, Lemon Asparagus Risotto and Garlic-Lemon Scallops. The delicious Arborio Rice Risotto was flavored with Garlic, White Wine, Lemon Zest/ Juice, and Parmesan Reggiano Cheese in a five-step preparation, handled by the very talented Sous Chef. The Chef’s attention next focused on Sea Scallops sautéed in Butter and Garlic, then drenched in a Lemon-Butter sauce which accompanied the Risotto. Tangy Reed’s Ginger Beer, whose Ginger is sourced from the Peruvian Amazon, paired perfectly with this course. Finally to America for a Hot Fudge Sundae made with Häagan-Dazs Ice Cream, Berries from Medina Farms at the VA Farmers Market and Smuckers decadent Hot Fudge. We have Risen and hope You did as well!

   

Walnut Pi π Day

Still sizzling from the oven

As math aficionados ponder the ratio of a circle’s circumference to its diameter or Pi (3.14…), ChezHelvetica chose to concentrate on a fabulous new Pie to devour on 3/14. The winning stroke, a Walnut Pie Crust. Thanks to Winters Fruit Tree at the VA Farmers Market and their wonderful produce (surviving floods), Walnuts toasted then combined with Butter and a bit of Sugar to form a crust pressed into the pie plate. After a quick bake, the crust was filled with Asparagus, Eggs, Half&Half, Seasonings, Cheddar and Mozzarella Cheeses to make a Quiche. A salad of Spinach/Spring Greens, Olives and Celery with a Balsamic Vinegar, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Agave and Garlic dressing brought it all to life! Gratitude to British mathematician William Jones for devising the mathematics behind the Pi symbol π and to all the Farmers whose hard work bring us the ingredients for our Pies. Happy Spring Everyone!

Set in a paella pan in case of spillage while baking
Walnut Quiche and Salad