Tag: Rana

Nice. And Not Nice.

Bastille16TortelliniChezHelvetica’s vision for a heartwarming celebratory Bastille Day dinner turned somber with the day’s heartbreaking news in Nice, France. Consider this post a condolence card to all those grieving. Still, we had to move forward. Hummus Heaven provided comfort with their Kale and Almond Hummus served with Organic Celery Hearts and Carrots, as did Chicken Soup made with Rotisserie Chicken, Onion, Garlic and Parsley. Bastille16CruditeGiovanni Rana‘s Cheese “Delicato” Tortellini delivered more contentment, topped with a homemade Cherry Tomato Sauce. Florin Gardens’ Blackberry necklace a lá Mode concluded the evening with wishes of Peace for this world.

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Cavolo Nero

With the usual Italian sex appeal, this name for Tuscan Kale enticed ChezHelvetica to finally succumb to temptation. This leafy cabbage doesn’t form heads, but rather resembles palm fronds with deep greenish black leaves that can be up to a yard long with pronounced ribs. Its surfaces have a distinctive bubbly appearance. Rich in vitamins and antioxidants, the earthy taste transforms when roasted or sautéed. The primo pasto paired roasted Kale, Garbanzo Beans, Spices (Coriander, just because) and Garlic in Extra Virgin Olive Oil with delicious Rana Mushroom Ravioli. The secondo featured Kale sautéed in Garlic Oil and Balsamic Vinegar with Vicolo’s legendary Cornmeal Crust Pepperoni Pizza –  the perfect complement. Grazie mille to Trader Joe’s, Costco and Ferry Plaza Farmers Market for these adventures to Italia!