PANCETTA-WRAPPED FIGS WITH WALNUTS

PANCETTA-WRAPPED FIGS WITH WALNUTS

SERVES 12 (2 per person) Figs are harvested twice a year in California, in early summer and late summer or early fall. I always grab a basket or two as soon as I see them at the market. In my opinion, not many other fruits can compete with the sweet flavor and the...
IKRA, OR POOR MAN’S CAVIAR (MIDDLE EASTERN EGGPLANT SPREAD)

IKRA, OR POOR MAN’S CAVIAR (MIDDLE EASTERN EGGPLANT SPREAD)

SERVES 12 When most of us think of a Middle Eastern eggplant appetizer, baba ghanoush comes to mind. Although it’s a fantastic dip, my favorite Middle Eastern eggplant dish is the lesser-known ikra. The recipe for ikra varies from household to household, and even...
GRILLED LAMB HEARTS AND LIVER WITH SPICY CHIMICHURRI

GRILLED LAMB HEARTS AND LIVER WITH SPICY CHIMICHURRI

SERVES 6 TO 8 Liver is rich in iron and other minerals, choline and B vitamins, especially vitamins B6 and B12. In addition, it’s a good source of the fat-soluble vitamins A, D and K. Heart is a rich source of Coenzyme Q10 and a helpful substance that supports many...
FRIED PADRÓN PEPPERS

FRIED PADRÓN PEPPERS

SERVES 4 Pimientos de Padrón are small green peppers from the Galicia region of Spain. I first learned about Padrón peppers while strolling through the farmers’ market with a girlfriend who frequents Spain. She told me they were delicious fried with olive oil and...
CREAMY BACON-WRAPPED DATES

CREAMY BACON-WRAPPED DATES

SERVES 10 (2 PER PERSON) I usually prep these, stage them in the oven and turn the oven on as soon as the first dinner guests arrive. Greeting guests with warm, gooey cashew cream, crunchy bacon and sweet dates always impresses them. These are usually gone within...