Flavor of the Month: Basil

Basil FOM

1. Lime, Basil, and Mandarin Salad | 2. Creamy Lemon Basil Pasta | 3. Brie & Basil Grilled Cheese on Chocolate Bread | 4. Pineapple Basil Sorbet | 5. Basil & Cucumber Martini

When it comes to herbs, you can’t go wrong with basil. Whether you are seasoning sauces, making pesto, or simply using basil as a garnish, the versatility of this herb is seriously impressive. Not only is basil delicious, but it has incredible health benefits, some of which include: protecting the body from premature aging, strong antibacterial capabilities that could help prevent bacterial infections, and improving blood flow because of its high source of magnesium. As if you need more convincing, basil also helps with indigestion and stomach cramps. Next time you want to top off a pasta dish or salad, don’t be afraid to sprinkle a couple more basil leaves on top.

*P.S. Follow my Twitter for ways to include more film and food into your life – #ADashofMarch.

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That’s a Wrap!

It’s been 18 days since the New Year, and I’ve already watched Mad Men Season 5, Girls (half) Season One, and am currently making my way through Homeland. It’s better to get through all of these shows while still on holiday break, since I’ll soon be neck-deep in work, homework, and trying to maintain a social life of some sort. In the meantime, wrapping up the week with a recap…

* Not only is Jennifer Lawrence hosting SNL this weekend, but The Lumineers are the musical guest. Best combo ever.

* Halfway through Season One of Homeland. Claire Danes is slowly growing on me.

* Popcorn is always a great addition when watching intense shows (see above).

pop

* Homemade jiaozi – didn’t take 3 hours this time!

jiaozi 2

* Pasta taken to a whole new level with sliced black truffles.

truffle

* These candle matches are adorable.

Have a great weekend! Are you doing anything fun?

{Photos by Lauren}

Around Town: Babbo, New York City

Mario Batali can do no wrong. After loving Pizzeria Mozza and Eataly, I wanted to try out Batali’s New York City restaurant, Babbo Ristorante, to see what all the amazing reviews were about. Babbo is on a side street in the West Village,  and it could not be more charming. With a dim and intimate downstairs and an airy and spacious upstairs, Babbo offers a comfortable and private space to dine with friends and family. The food is made from local and fresh ingredients, and the flavors in each dish are incredibly rich. The Mozzarella di Bufala appetizer had the freshest mozzarella I have ever tasted. You definitely will not be disappointed here.

· · ·

Setting: Intimate, cozy, and comfortable

Good for: Family dinner, date night, business meetings

What to order: Mozzarella di Bufalawith Ramps and Olio Verde, Black Spaghetti with Rock Shrimp, Spicy Salami Calabrese and  Green Chilies, Pappardelle Bolognese, and Goose Liver Ravioli with Balsamic Vinegar and Brown Butter

Downsides: It can be hard to get a table, so be sure to make a reservation

Recommend: Sharing an appetizer with your friends/family and having your own main dish

{photos by a dash of cinema}

Around Town: Bocca Di Bacco, New York City

I can never get enough Italian food. Whether it is just pasta with parmesan or a more complex dish with shrimp and herbs, I simply love every bite. Bocca di Bacco is a delicious Italian restaurant with a comfortable atmosphere, making it a great place to catch up with family and friends. The service is quick and the food is so filling that we couldn’t possibly stay for dessert. I am not as picky with Italian food than I am with other cuisines, but until I find a restaurant to top Bocca di Bacco, I will be going here for my Italian fix.

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Setting: Comfortable atmosphere with wooden tables and chairs

Good for: Family dinner, lunch with friends, date night

What to order: Classic Onion Soup, Taste of Four Cheeses, any of the pasta dishes (I ordered the pasta special)

Downsides: The music is a bit loud

Recommend: Sharing dishes since the portions are large

{photos by a dash of cinema}

Happy Memorial Day!

1. Arugula and Goat Cheese Pasta Salad | 2. Tuscan Tuna and White Bean Sandwiches |
3. Jones Soda | 4. Pop Chips | 5. Fruit Salad | 5. Brownies

Happy Memorial Day! One way to celebrate this holiday is to spend time with family and friends and take a couple of hours to go on a picnic and remember the men and women who have fought and died for our country. There are so many different ways to pack a picnic basket, but simple items don’t make too much of a mess and they are quicker to prepare. Ideally, you don’t want to be carrying too much or have food that will melt before sitting down to eat. These are some picnic items that will result in a delicious and memorable afternoon.

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