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