Big Bowl of Love

Cristina Ferrare’s Big Bowl of Love – Panini Party: Butternut Squash Soup, Lemon-Thyme Martini, Paninis

 

Big Bowl of Love dishes it up on today’s episode. Cristina Ferrae’s niece, actress Danielle Bisutti, pops by to cook up some family fun.

What’s on today’s menu?

  • Panini Sandwiches
  • Butternut Squash Soup
  • Lemon-Thyme Martinis


I serve up paninis all the time and just LOVE them! The apple, arugula, honey and brie was a new combo for me. I can’t wait to try it.

With life as busy as it gets, juggling all the craziness and trying to cook can be like running and obstacle course. I must admit thought….I got a little excited about the butternut squash soup. It looked surprisingly easy, hearty and perfect for Fall menus. I was happy to hear in the end that she used non-fat cream cheese. I sat the whole episode wondering if I could substitute it and still pull it off. Good to know I can!!! The only change I would make is with the garnish selections. I would only choose a couple like roasted walnuts and paprika…keeping it simple.

Now to the martinis! All you need is an ocean front view and a lounge chair. I don’t really drink, so I would be more interested in finding a non-alcoholic version. They would be perfect for an outdoor party.

Now for a few BBOL tips:

  • Be sure to grill paninis on medium so that you don’t burn them.
  • Make a panini press with an aluminum wrapped brick- simply set it on top of the sandwich on the grill.
  • Add a little more stock to stretch it or thin out the thickness.
  • Put simple syrup in the freezer for 10 minutes before you add it to the mixture.
  • Add a little colored sugar to the rim of your martini glass- you can pick it up at specialty or cake shops.
  • Soup can be served hot or cold!

Now for a few of my OWN suggestions:

  • Add a little pesto and a slice of tomato to your turkey panini. It’s fabulous!
  • Remember to make these last minute before you are ready to go. That way they stay nice and warm when served.
  • Don’t over-stuff the sandwiches! They end up cold inside.
  • Once you know you love paninis (and I know you will), invest in a press…it is SO worth it.

Indulge and have fun!

Links to recipes:

http://www.oprah.com/own-cristinas-big-bowl-of-love/Apple-Brie–Arugula-Panini

http://www.oprah.com/own-cristinas-big-bowl-of-love/Turkey-Muenster-Panini

http://www.oprah.com/own-cristinas-big-bowl-of-love/Butternut-Squash-Soup

http://www.oprah.com/own-cristinas-big-bowl-of-love/Lemon-Thyme-Martini

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