ChezHelvetica’s first experience with Cranberry Beans, also known as Borlotti, opened a new world in dining. Sensuous in their curved shells, these beautifully pink-speckled oval beans added creamy, delicious flavor to a Tri Color Barilla Pasta dish, nestling on Earthbound Farm Organic Baby Spinach. An Epicurious recipe for the fresh beans (purchased at the VA Farmers Market ) heightened the taste of the Penne, already bathing in homemade Almond Pesto.
Grated Parmesan-Reggiano Cheese showered the Pasta Salad, studded with Baked Apricot Chicken. Empire Kosher Chicken Breasts roasted in my sister’s delicious Apricot Glaze, Lemon Juice, Garlic and Dijon Mustard, then topped with Dried Apricots. An elegant dinner for a Wednesday night!
ChezHelvetica ushered out 5779 with a New Year’s Eve dinner for visiting family. 
Turkey Soup made with Empire Kosher Turkey Breast, Italian Fusili, Vidalia Onions, Garlic and Organic Carrots (spiced with Bay Leaf and Fresh Dill) took center stage for this 
gathering. The heartwarming soup was accompanied by Whole Divinia Greek Olives, Del Monte Tiny Dill Pickles, Zucchini/ Parsley Salad with Apricot Dressing and Acme Sourdough Bread. Edna Valley Chardonnay from the backyard of my relatives in San Luis Obispo made the lively discussion about future plans and trips that much livelier. Delicious Chocolate Babka (a pastry with Eastern European Jewish heritage) sweetened our meal and heralded a Sweet New Year. L’Shanah Tova 5780!
Pride, Independence and Victory describe
ChezHelvetica on this auspicious occasion. Jubilant Pride Parades and the 4th of July inspired the table setting and menu for this family welcome, with Food & Wine Magazine providing the recipe for a delicious 
Using home-grown greens already on hand instead of Kale, and removing Corn Kernels by inserting the cob into a Bundt pan (so that the kernels fall into the pan and not all over the floor) facilitated the creation. Trader Joe’s Moroccan Harissa spiced the piquant dressing. Turkey Soup made from an Empire Turkey Breast, Onion, Garlic, Celery and Carrots accompanied the salad, along with Bakers of Paris Pain Rustique topped by Primo Taglio Soft Goat’s Cheese. Sweet TJ’s Medjool Dates concluded this meal but attending the Oakland A’s/Minnesota Twins baseball game and witnessing Marcus Semien’s Grand Slam homer crowned the day!
