Inspire Home Fall 2024 by Inspired Home Magazine Fargo

A FRESH APPROACH TO HOME & LIFE

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After 20 years Downtown, we have a new spacious home and we are celebrating! View our expansive showroom to shop our furniture and decor in beautifully designed “home” settings.

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Stop in and browse our stunning 41,000 sq ft showroom and SAVE on brands you’ve always wanted –Stressless, Skovby, BDI & much more! living rooms | dining rooms | office bedroom | home decor

10 INTERIORS

The natural greenspace of a sand bar, the Otter Tail River and the lake became the impetus for this family’s new home. An architect, interior designer and builder all work together to meld scenic beauty and home.

DEPARTMENTS

42 CONVERSATIONS

Beautiful hard-working kitchens are the goal of all homeowners today. Meet Kaitlin Dahl. She’ll share with you her knowledge and expertise to create a kitchen that creates a high-functioning and harmonious space in your home.

Not only do our walls define our areas of living, but they also stand alone as canvases to be admired through color and textures. The beautiful resurgence of wallpaper is making its mark with lively patterns and colors.

18 ELEMENTS

Appreciating views has a positive effect on our well-being. A serene natural vista has the power to inspire us by using our home interiors as its vehicle to enhance it. Read these tips on how to make the most of a view.

INGREDIENTS

Warm spices define all seasons, but especially the fall and winter months. Discover the flavors of ginger, cinnamon, cloves and honey as they mingle together with the zest of oranges to create a delightful Nordic treat.

KITCHENS

The winds of change signal the arrival of fall and trending design essentials for the busiest area in your home. This high-energy space sets an important emotional pace for you and your family. Discover design elements you will love.

CUISINE

Summer is in our rearview mirror as we anticipate autumn. Join us as we travel to an Italian neighborhood through the eyes of Chef Granville Wood to experience the sights and aromas of old Italian cooking traditions.

TRAVEL

Travel to Italy with Ashley Johnson to experience the historical and architectural beauty of the country. Sit down, get comfortable and vicariously enjoy the flavors, sights and smells that only Italia can provide. Godere!

Kris Sailer

Fall is an exhilarating time of year, a favorite of mine – another season of change. We all settle back to a familiar rhythm that brings a new color palette from nature, the cooling of our shorter days and a fresh, promising feel in the switch to the north wind.

Spending more time at home may seem like a luxury during this busy time of the year as activities seem to quadruple and a sense of equilibrium becomes an important endeavor. Keep in mind that with all the outward busyness our kitchens remain a constant in our lives – a place where we continue to gather, connect, converse and share delicious meals.

No matter what our cooking skill set is, we all can relate to a well-planned kitchen and its physical anatomy – the bones that equip us to make the kitchen a great one. In this issue, we are excited to delve into exactly that. From trends to sage advice that transcends the test of time, we hope our endeavors have created a beautiful and timely source of information and ideas.

Spending more time inside brings us to another subject we explore in our Fall issue – the walls that define our indoor spaces. Creating beauty in our kitchens and beyond includes the increasing resurgence of wallpaper. Wallpaper graces our walls with lively patterns and colors that energize our interiors in ways painted walls alone could never. Read “The Way of the Wall” to inspire you to create walls that express your most loved design styles.

From the inside comfort of our homes, we travel outward to the beauty of Italia. Inspired Home writer Ashley Johnson and husband Brett share with you their Italian odyssey of a lifetime. In perfect harmony with their vacation experience comes Chef Granville’s Italian culinary journey into the tastes and heritage of Italian cuisine. Last, but not the least…

Our community is richly blessed to claim a plethora of devoted and talented artists who make us better people. They share their creative minds and their willingness not only to express themselves but to allow us the opportunity to reveal ourselves through their art – for that we are grateful. Please attend the FMVA Studio Crawl on October 5 & 6, NOON-6 PM, and the Arts for the Holidays event on December 7 at the Fargo Civic Center. See you there!

So now sit back, take it all in, and enjoy the Inspired Home Fall Issue!

Terri Ferragut

Associate Publisher Editorial Director

terri.ferragut@gmail.com terri@inspiredhomemagazine.com

Inspired Home Associate Publisher Terri Ferragut

Phone: 701.866.4405

Editorial Director

Terri Ferragut

Creative Director

Terri Ferragut

Director of Operations

Scott Drzewiecki

Contributing Photographers

Jill Ockhardt Blaufuss

Lauren Ferragut Carlson

Sarah Dolyniuck

Chelsey Malstrom

Kensie Wallace

Contributing Writers

Lauren Ferragut Carlson

Terri Ferragut

Chelsey Malstrom

Granville Wood

Copy Editor

Keri Guten Cohen

Social Media Director

Bailey Hovland Find us on

Email: terri@inspiredhomemagazine.com terri.ferragut@gmail.com Production representative

(313) 510-4429

Vita Bella | Photography by Aran Cucine

TERRI FERRAGUT

Every issue, we take great pride in presenting this beautiful local home and lifestyle guide we call Inspired Home. From design to great food our goal is to provide you with relevant information you value. Truth of the matter is, without the heart and dedication of this talented and professional team, this publication would not be possible. Issue after issue, their creativity brings Inspired Home to your doorstep or area business. They inspire me.

ASHLEY F. JOHNSON

Ashley Johnson loves her home city of Fargo. She works as a registered nurse at Sanford Medical Center and shares her happy home with her husband, 2 children and a rescue cat. She loves traveling with her family, cooking, entertaining and good wine. She can’t wait to show her children the world.

JILL OCKHARDT BLAUFUSS

Jill Ockhardt Blaufuss is a photographer for architecture and interior design. Her clients range from designers and builders, both commercial and residential. When she's not working she enjoys spending time with her family and friends, cooking, traveling and entertaining.

LAUREN F. CARLSON

recently moved back home to Fargo with her husband and daughter after living in Upstate New York for 8 years where she worked at Cornell University as a research technician. There she worked with hemp for CBD/grain/fiber and willow for bioenergy. After having a baby she took some time off to be a mom. She loves knitting, running, cross-stitch, and of course, Scandinavian baking.

SARAH DOLYNIUK

A career in the interior design world, along with a genuine interest in connection, led Sarah here to Inspired Home Magazine. She loves date nights (or days) with her fiancé, nature photography (iphone style), walks with her dog, kissing on her rescue kitties, listening to podcasts, reading, yoga, antiquing, getting lost in a good television show, and enjoying a citrusy IPA or glass of wine.

BAILEY HOVLAND

Before earning an English writing degree at Concordia College, Hovland dreamed of being an interior designer. Now, serving Inspired Home Magazine as a writer and social media director, she has the best of both worlds—pairing the power of words with innovative interior design.

KINSEY WALLACE

A licensed real estate agent and photographer based in the FM area, Kinsey can wholeheartedly say she found her calling and has met amazing people along the way! Obsessed with interior design and home renovation, she is, by her own admission, a true introvert that enjoys spending her free time traveling, reading, and enjoying the outdoors with her dogs, Finley and Murphy.

GRANVILLE WOOD

Wood is an international chef who worked in London, Stockholm, Toronto, Vancouver, Palm Beach and Houston before moving to Fargo with wife Susie, a doctor with Sanford Health. Most recently he operated The Blue Goose Café in the Plains Art Museum.

Known for their historically inspired scenic murals, the Fine & Dandy Co. are powerful visual storytellers.

Credit: Fine & Dandy Co. Imaginarium Gypsum Mural Wrap in the home of Lena Choi & Alan Mak, Toronto. Photographer: Benjamin Edward (https://www. instagram.com/benjamin_edward/)

Think about it. Not only do the walls in our homes define the areas of living, but they also stand alone as large canvases to be noticed and admired through color, art and textures. The resurgence of wallpaper continues to grace our homes with lively rhythms of patterns and colors,

BY TERRI FERRAGUT

energizing our interiors in ways painted walls alone could never.

Wallpaper helps us convey our design styles while giving us extra space to express our most loved patterns and colors. The wallpaper trend remains increasingly popular and with a plethora of options available, your walls

will take on a beautiful life of their own. Feeling a little trepidation? Try an accent wall. Typically, an accent wall is determined by the first or main wall you see when you walk into a room — the “WOW” moment when you enter. The type of wallpaper you choose will depend on the statement you

want to make. If you want bold and dramatic, choose patterns or colors that draw the eye to that wall. If you want something more subtle, try a muted color palette and a less busy pattern. Like most skills that you are learning, it can be a good idea to start small and build as you grow your toolkit of expertise.

Interiors

If you tackle wallpaper yourself, an accent wall is a great way to build your confidence. To integrate it into an entire room, try painting the other walls to match the main background color of your wallpaper. This allows the adjacent walls to gracefully blend into the wallpaper rather than it looking like a hard transition. However, with a little thoughtful consideration, integrating the wall transitions can look dramatic and beautiful when using bold colors or complementing wallpaper patterns.

Vinyl wallpaper is one of the most versatile wallcoverings on the market today and a great option for growing families. It is easy to install and can be cleaned with a damp sponge. Made from PVC, vinyl wallpaper is extremely durable making it a great choice for kid’s rooms, bathrooms and kitchens. You’ll find it in many styles including pre-pasted, peel-and-stick, paintable and textured, providing endless decorating options for your home. Non-self-adhesive varieties can be installed with a quality clear wallpaper

The resurgence of wallpaper continues to grace our homes with lively rhythms of patterns and colors, energizing our interiors in ways painted walls alone could never.

adhesive after the wall has been prepped with a wallpaper primer.

Natural grasscloth wallpaper brings an unparalleled sense of organic luxury to your walls. Commonly made from arrowroot, raw jute, hemp, sisal, cork, reed and triangle grass, these natural papers are actual grass fibers held together with fine thread and usually handwoven in Asia. Grasscloth, although stunning, costs more than the average wallpaper.

Reimagining yesteryear, Fine & Dandy Co. is focused on designing a diverse range of immersive murals and patterns of rich color and texture.

Elegance in paisley print patterns by Phillip Jeffries bathes this room in elegance. From classic to contemporary, wallpaper helps us convey our design styles.

Babylon, Falconer’s Cottage in Versailles, France. Interior Designer, Decorator and Photographer: Andres Alsina Aristegui Arstegui Alsina Aristegui (@andresalsinaofficial) Instagram

Interiors

Natural grasscloth adds an unparalleled sense of organic luxury to your wall. Although more expensive, the beautiful results are worth it.

Metallic designs bring a luxurious essence providing sparkle, radiant shimmer and opulent glitter.

Whimsical patterns of nature add a calming and restful nature to a room, perfect for a child’s bedroom or a baby’s nursery.

Flora and fauna patterns are transformative. Being surrounded by nature is a design aesthetic that evokes a secret garden essence — peaceful and decorative. These wallpapered rooms can become our most-loved place and atmosphere in the home. Dark and dramatic. Residential space planning is evolving, creating individual living areas that helped increase the use of wallpaper. Closed-off rooms promote the ideal opportunity to be cocooned in color-drenched wallpapers. The opulent, moody return of jewel tones, darker wood stains

Murals define beauty and create a statement fitting for any type of space. This contemporary floral pattern emotes a feeling of peace and calm. Numbered panels make installation an easy process.

and intricate moldings empower and wrap a room in cozy comfort. Reminiscent of our grandmother’s wallpaper, traditionalism and glamour are revisited by using floral prints and big patterns — think darker Victorianage England motif to the geometrics, paisley shapes, and loud colors of the ’60s and ’70s.

Enchanted woodland whimsy provides the perfect backdrop for a child’s bedroom to encourage a child’s imagination to soar. Nature in any form provides a space that is calming, soothing and peaceful. Whether a nursery, bath or other area of respite, the natural world reigns in comfort.

Murals define beauty and a statement. Numbered panels with installation instructions will tell you the order to install them. A plethora of design options of designs and colors make it easy to find the perfect match for your room. Be sure the pattern will fit on the selected wall and there should be no doors and windows in the middle of the mural that will affect its pattern.

Metallic designs are not shy about the luxurious essence they create in a room. Golds, silvers, bronze and coppers provide stunning sparkle, radiant shimmer and opulent glitter in any room. From stately patterns to contemporary elegance, they provide a showstopping experience in any space.

Wallpapers can create a sense of intimacy and familiarity and a layer of pattern and color that will wrap your home in character and become the mainstay of a well-loved home.

Harvest the comfort...

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Enjoy the View

Gazing upon this sweeping landscape offers a sense of tranquility and calm.

PHOTOGRAPHY: TRAVIS BEAUCHENE

ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN: TONY STOLL, AIA, WIDSETH

BY TERRI FERRAGUT

NATURAL HEALING

Appreciating long-distance natural views has positive effects on our physical and mental well-being. Not only aesthetically are we affected but they also have a positive influence on our emotional health and cognitive abilities. There is healing power in the scenic beauty nature has to offer us. It is undeniable. Gazing upon a sweeping landscape can offer a sense of tranquility and calm, helping to reduce stress levels. The natural world has the power to elevate our moods and enhance emotional well-being. Its beauty reminds us of the grandeur of the great outdoors and provides a sense of perspective in our lives, helping us appreciate the beauty of our planet. This “scenic wellness” underscores the positive impact that natural beauty has in our daily lives. A serene scenic vista also has the power to inspire us by using our home interiors as its vehicle to enhance

PHOTOGRAPHY: TRAVIS BEAUCHENE

ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN: TONY STOLL, AIA, WIDSETH, PERHAM, MN

BUILDER: JOHN GUNKLEMAN, DAKOTA CONSTRUCTION INC., FARGO, ND

Woods and water framed by an architectural framework meld as one with this home’s interiors.

it. The outdoor scene can provide a focal point, set the tone for your home or simply be a beautiful backdrop. Whether you’re looking at mountains, a lake or a cityscape, what you see outdoors can be just as impactful as what you see within your home. To make the most of your views, here are tips from area designers on how to enhance a room with fabulous views.

A serene scenic vista has the power to inspire us by using our home interiors as a vehicle to enhance it. “ ”

FRAMING THE VIEW, BRINGING OUTDOOR BEAUTY INSIDE

Designing around a scenic view is an exciting venture and a great focal point of any project. Bringing the outdoors inside and letting it take center stage is a rewarding design accomplishment. The home should be oriented to take full advantage of the view in as many rooms as possible.

Sometimes the best views are achieved by creating moments within a space that draw your attention to the vista. Some of the most basic framed views are created with windows. Using large-format windows and doors helps frame and maximize the view. By framing views, it’s possible to blur the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces to encourage a natural flow in and out of the home. A large picture window or a glass wall capable of sliding away can do an excellent job of framing the landscape. Seamless glass windows spanning floor to ceiling serve to remove the boundaries between inside and

Wood and brick transition into a breathtaking view that leads the eye directly to the beauty of the lake.

PHOTOGRAPHY: JILL OCKHARDT BLAUFUSS

(Left to Right)

Jill Ockhardt Blaufuss Photography

Kinsey Wallace Photography

Photo Courtesy Widseth, Jill Ockhardt Blaufuss Photography

elements

out. The eye is allowed to wander and the view — not enclosed in any way — creates a serene moment for the viewer.

DESIGN IS EVERYTHING

If you are fortunate to have a panoramic natural scene, interior design, including the placement and scale of your furniture and decor in your home, is an important consideration in space planning. Find your inspiration from the environment first — the natural surroundings, landscaping and architecture. Create a color palette that echoes what you see outside and develop interior design elements around that. Neutrals such as creams, beige, taupe, blues or grays are great choices, depending on the

view. Fabrics and finishes also play an important role in complementing the transitions from exteriors to interiors. A beautiful view can be enhanced and appreciated in all types of interiors with attention to balance and framing. Capture the essence of the vista and incorporate it into the home’s overall design elements. Accentuate the beauty with as much seating as possible facing the view, using low-profile pieces that can be easily moved. Swivel chairs that create easy movement for guests are a great choice for conversation areas.

BE CREATIVE

If a natural scenic view is not an option, then consider creating one. A peaceful

backyard environment with flowers, beautiful trees, outdoor furniture, a gorgeous fire pit or a tranquil water feature is perfect for a soothing and relaxing experience for you and your guests. Simply drawing attention to the elegance that already exists is key. It’s about tying the home back to the reason you fell in love with the location in the first place — that tree, that shoreline or the mountains that initially inspired you to build or buy your home. Enjoy the view!

Framing with large format windows allows a blurring of the indoor and outdoor spaces, creating a serene moment for the viewer.

PHOTO COURTESY OF WIDSETH, PERHAM, MN

la dolce vita...

STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY ASHLEY FERRAGUT JOHNSON

One of the greatest civilizations in the history of mankind – Rome. The Colosseum, a grand amphitheater, once served as the epicenter for entertainment in the Roman Empire.

Growing up in the Midwest surrounded by mashed potatoes, tater tot hotdish and lutefisk, I was proud of my Sicilian heritage. I didn’t realize until I grew older that not everyone sat down to eggplant parmesan, stuffed peppers and manicotti for Christmas Eve dinner nor were many kids served genoa salami, olives and artichoke hearts by their grandparents for an afterschool snack. My grandfather, Sebastiano Ferraguto was a first-generation Sicilian immigrant born to Andrea and Maria who traveled by boat from Sicily to Ellis Island. They eventually raised their family of 5 boys in Boston, Massachusetts. After serving in World War II and moving to Chicago where he married my Swedish grandmother, a work-related move brought them to Fargo and with them, countless recipes and Italian traditions my family still cherishes. When my husband offered to take me on a trip to Italy to celebrate my 40th birthday, I didn’t hesitate. Having been on a life-changing trip to Norway with my family and my Norwegian grandparents, I knew I wanted to explore my Italian heritage.

Our 9-day journey began in the Eternal City of Rome where we hit the cobblestone streets running. Our guide took us on a private tour of Vatican City, rich in history and architecture. We walked the hallowed

travel

halls of the Gallery of Maps with beauty flanking us on either side. Large hand-painted ancient topography maps hung along the humbling walk. The hall that separated the Sistine Chapel from the Papal Palace was laden with frescos and gold leaf covering the walls and ceilings, which led to the Sistine Chapel. It was dimly lit, full of tourists, all moved to utter silence as we gazed upon the works of Michelangelo. I cried as I walked in and tried to wrap my head around what we were seeing. We meandered through the rest of the Vatican, awe-struck as we wandered through the City of Seven Hills where Rome was built. We walked through the Coliseum and toured the ancient

The “Floating City” of Venice is built on more than 100 small islands in a lagoon in the Adriatic Sea. It has no roads, just canals that meander through stunning ancient architecture.

city ruins, the Curia of Pompey, a meeting hall, where Julius Caesar was assassinated in 44 BC, and bathhouses where the original marble lay intact. Opera music played on loudspeakers throughout the ancient city to create an essence of life that once occupied the now ghost of a city.

Another incredible experience – food. We wanted authentic cuisine. The best advice our private food guide gave us was to never eat near tourist attractions so we traveled off the beaten path to dine. Rome and Trastevere, a region in Rome, is famous for its cacio e pepe, carbonara and pizzas…all divine. Creamy rich sauces smothered chewy noodles that were a color I’d never seen before. The pizzas were wood-fired and covered in fresh veggies, prosciutto, and dripping in olive oil. If I close my eyes, I can still smell it.

Opera music played on loudspeakers throughout the ancient city to create an essence of life that once occupied the now ghost of a city. ” “

Photographer | Real Estate Photography

We left Rome by train and entered the romantic region of Tuscany with its rolling hills and vineyards that stretched as far as the eye could see. There we stayed at the Torre e Cona, a wine estate that dates back to 1066 AD. This lavish countryside estate with graceful hanging purple wisteria everywhere housed famous works by Michelangelo and Donatello. The estate helped protect art during World War II. We dined on traditional duck ragu, bright and fresh gem salads, and some of the most delicious bread and olive oils I’d ever experienced. Silky tiramisu and lavender panna cotta desserts were among our favorites. A traditional Italian breakfast was typically a warm fresh pastry dunked in a rich cappuccino, but for guests, an extensive marble counter was laden with Italian meats, cheeses, pastries and farm-fresh eggs. We spent a day in a nearby 1300 BC village named San Gimignano. Its narrow

In Vatican City, Master Michelangelo designed the magnificent Saint Peter’s Basilica Dome at the age of 71 years old.

The Gallery of Maps in the Vatican displays exquisite world maps created by Roman topographers during the 16th century.

In Florence, The Palasso Vecchio is the most famous symbol of the city. Built-in 1299 AD the great palace houses The Hall of the Five Hundred, the largest gallery of artistic and historic value.

cobblestone streets were lined with small local shops – Davinci’s torture museum, worth a quick Google, and homemade pasta. The small town is claimed to have the best gelato in the world. We opted for lemon and saffron gelato made with locally raised ingredients. We could have eaten buckets of the bright creamy concoction. A couple of days walking through Florence, just a 30-minute cab ride from Torre e Cona was a highlight. We spent hours viewing the sculpture David and the Birth of Venus by Botticelli – Leonardo da Vinci’s first painting, works by Caravaggio and the only painting done by Michelangelo in all of Florence. The Florence Cathedral, with its infamous Duomo, is known to be the largest dome constructed of bricks in the world. Florence also offered the best cannoli

I have ever eaten – a combination of pistachio and traditional ricotta filling. Magnifico!

Before leaving Tuscany, we had an unforgettable farm-totable experience at Fattoria Poggio Alloro, a farm near San Gimignano. We enjoyed a sixcourse lunch of beef ragu, wheat germ salad, fresh cured meats, cheeses, and a fresh crostata de frutta. Full to the brim with the taste of the Italian countryside, we packed up our Tuscan memories (and tons of olive oil and saffron from the farm) and headed by train to our last destination – Venice.

Venice, the City of Water was built on a patchwork of lagoons and islands where we toured the 1600-year-old city by foot, boat, and gondola. Packed full of history lessons and architectural achievements, St. Mark’s Basilica was completed in the year 883 AD and was bathed in gold, art, and breathtaking views. Just as remarkable were our private food tours by foot into the dark recesses of the city. Hidden doors and quiet tunnels brought us to amazing eating establishments.

Curious and delectable dishes like squid ink pies, tramezzini (fried sandwiches) cicchetti (tiny tastings of anything handheld) namely meatballs, marinated anchovies and fried zucchini blossoms to name a few. We did exactly what our food guide instructed us: “Do not ask me what it is…just eat,” and eat we did!

On day 9 of our Italian journey, we left Venice via water taxi with full bags, bellies and hearts. Veni, vidi vici! We came, we saw we conquered. Until we meet again, arrivederci, Italia!

Nougat and assorted fresh breads

Marinated whole anchovies on crostini

House-made burrata, greens and smoked sardines

Fresh produce and fish in Venice

Better mobility for life at home

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Excavation

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Custom

An Otter Tail Odyssey

BY TERRI FERRAGUT PHOTOGRAPHY BY KRISTEN JYRKAS

In a land of 1,048 lakes, Otter Tail Lake is the largest in Otter Tail County, Minnesota. Located in the middle of everything made beautiful by nature, it sprawls roughly across 21 square miles, boasting its title of the 10th largest inland lake in the entire state.

For Kenny and Kim Nelson, living on Otter Tail Lake for 32 years has been an odyssey marked by lifelong adventures and events that have earned a very special place in both their hearts. Kim Nelson speaks to their love of the land they call home, “Both Kenny and I have lived most our lives in this area and love the peaceful beauty of this spot we get to call home.”

The natural greenspace of the Otter Tail River and lake are the backdrop for their home — and important to the homeowners. The Nelson’s home, surrounded by an extraordinary vista, became an important component in the architectural design plans. “The sandbar or break area is what we refer to as the island or the Otter’s Tail. “It is natural,” Nelson adds. Looking toward the lakeside, the large natural sand bar on the northeast shore of the lake is shaped like an otter’s tail. The Otter Tail River gets its name from what French explorers called Lac de la Queue de la Outer, or Lake of the Otter’s Tail. The river enters the lake and flows several hundred yards

between the sand bar and the shoreline before entering the main body of water. It is here that the initial plans began to take shape.

Project architect Tony Stoll, AIA, Widseth, understood the homeowner’s strong desire to be able to view this natural beauty from every room. “We had little need for much artwork as the views are our focal point,” Nelson adds. Tony says, “With their site location, the Nelsons wanted to take advantage of and maximize their interior views to the lakeside from every room possible. It was very important to incorporate daylighting into all portions of the building and yet tie the interior and exterior spaces together.”

The Otter Tail River gets its name from early French explorers who called it Lac de la Queue de la Outer, or Lake of the Otter’s Tail.

Another design goal was to incorporate an entertainment space for the family that tied into their unique lakeside setting. “Tony Stoll and his Widseth team didn’t miss a beat; he was on top of the project through the entire process,” Nelson says.

As in any successful home-building project, a well-orchestrated dance began between the homeowners, Dave Vetsch of Vetsch Construction, architect Tony Stoll and interior designer Abby Tallman of Happy Interiors. Nelson explains, “Both of them communicated

greatly with our builder Dave Vetsch.”

The homeowners wanted their home to be cozy and comfortable, yet with a whimsical charm. This meant incorporating meaningful touches important to both homeowners throughout the home. Nelson adds, “Our interior designer was Abby Tallman of Happy Interiors out of Minneapolis. Absolutely amazing! She was able to get a handle on our style immediately and worked hard to make sure everything was just as we wished.” Collaboration and communication were assets

for Tallman, who worked well with all the contractors.

Tallman, designer/owner of Happy Interiors, and Amy Mathie, director of operations/ owner, became integral components in the home’s design elements. “The overall design goal was to create a place they enjoy being in every day with spaces they are excited to come home to,” Tallman shares. Finalizing the finish selections for the interior and exterior of the home as well as furniture, lighting and accessories became an important end goal.

Windows upon windows designed and placed to accentuate the view of Otter Tail Lake, the river and the natural sandbar are elements that the Nelsons felt paramount in the planning of their home.

home showcase

The ease at which the rooms ebb and flow and bring nature in creates a comforting sense of continuity for the homeowners and guests. Coffered timber ceilings add stunning architectural interest.

Sophistication and elegance grace this hard-working and well-equipped kitchen area – perfect for entertaining.

Tallman describes the home’s design elements as “transitional with a mix of formal and casual” to create elegance yet maintain comfort. By implementing a soft color palette and textures in neutral tones throughout the home, it was achieved. Tallman’s favorite design features were the wallpapers used, light fixtures throughout and the serene primary suite.

Woodworking artist and carpenter Wendell Danielson, Perham, MN created these wall panels from an old Tuffy’s feed mill grain elevator. Time created a rippled surface after 50-plus years of grain erosion.

The natural vista in this room becomes an integral piece of continual visual “art” as the lake seasons change from fall to summer.

home showcase

The elegance of neutrals, textures, metallics and nature’s handiwork combine to create an extraordinary place of respite.

Integrated neutrals throughout the home combine with natural stone to create a perfect backdrop to the views that nature reveals from every room in the Nelson home.

“The home has so many wonderful spaces to relax and gather in, from the loft space for the grandkids to the large screen porch with lake views and a cozy fireplace,” Tallman explains.

“It’s hard to pick a favorite.” For the Nelsons, the open space including the kitchen, dining and living area is essential. “We can use it as separate rooms but also for a larger space for family gatherings and parties,” Nelson says. “Our favorite room, though, is our 3-season porch.

We have a fireplace and heat lamps there so we can use it a good portion of the year. We feel like we are in nature while spending time there.”

This story began with an appreciation of the beauty of the natural world and a dream to create a home surrounded by it. However, whether it’s nature that surrounds the Nelsons with its wonder or the comforting beauty created by a team of dedicated and talented individuals, one thing is true — there’s no place like home.

CONTRIBUTORS

General Contractor, Builder

Dave Vetsch

Vetsch Construction Perham, MN

Architectural Design

Tony Stoll, AIA Widseth Perham, MN

Interior Design

Abby Tallman, Designer/Owner

Happy Interiors, Minneapolis, MN

Amy Mathie, Director of Operations/Owner

Happy Interiors, Minneapolis, MN

ABBY TALLMAN Designer/Owner

TONY STOLL AIA, Widseth

AMY MATHIE Director of Operations/Owner

A particular favorite living area of the Nelson family is the 3-season porch that provides an elongated season of family gatherings. Heaters and a fireplace provide a cozy atmosphere long into Minnesota’s crisp fall evenings.

Loving Stone –

A

Convers A tion with Kaitlin Dahl

Natural beauty is captured in these kitchen countertops with granite in Winter Wood refinished to create a stunning leathered finish. The leathering of natural stone adds a layer of interesting texture in this space.

Beautiful, hard-working kitchens are the goal of all homeowners. With the knowledge and expertise of area professionals, key design elements all come together to create a space that speaks with high-functioning harmony — your kitchen. Meet Kaitlin Dahl, designer and vice president of sales for Northern Stone.

IH: What do you love most about your job?

KD: Easy answer! — The collaborations. We get to work with so many talented and creative people in our industry daily. Our team at Northern Stone has made it our mission to get comfortable with the

Kaitlin Dahl, Northern Stone designer and vice president of sales stands near a striking example of a honed finish in Elegant Grey granite. Another option in texture finishes, the smooth and matte finish dulls reflections on its surface.

uncomfortable. We love to be challenged and figure out how to make even the craziest idea a possibility while keeping the safety and quality of the product at the forefront. It is always so fun to bounce ideas back and forth and try things that aren't normally done in our industry.

IH: What properties does natural stone possess that makes it a popular choice for homeowners?

KD: Each piece is unique and never an exact duplicate – that is the appeal of natural stone, in my opinion. Man-made stone is a great selection for many different reasons but knowing that man did not manipulate or create the colors and patterns that flow through

natural stone is mind-blowing to me at times. I like to refer to it as God’s personal art gallery that we are fortunate enough to be able to enjoy. Natural stone also has a higher heat tolerance than man-made selections, is outdoor stable, and can be a harder product, depending on the selection that was made. I often hear individuals say they sit around their countertop and admire all the different naturally occurring characteristics in the stone. It can be a fun conversation piece in your home!

IH: What new stone and tile trends are you excited about in your business, especially in stone and tile for kitchens?

KD: I am excited to see the mixture of textures and finishes in kitchens. I love walking into a room and feeling like a part of the outdoors has been brought inside. This look can be accomplished in many different ways. Some of the most popular trends at the moment are handmade slightly imperfect tiles, stacked stones, brickwork, the use of timbers and stained wood instead of painted.

I am most excited about the warm tones coming back. I have always felt that grey and white can feel a little too cold for a home. With how often design trends change, it can be hard to make a space feel up to date for as long as possible if there is a limited color palette

to play with. Having a presence of warmth in the selections can help give the space that “live-in” feel that I personally crave. I also love that natural stone is making a comeback. The organic and natural movements of stone products cut directly from the Earth always amaze me. To me, nothing can compete with the beauty and depth that natural stone selections offer.

IH: Quartz vs granite? What are your thoughts?

KD: Natural stone has my heart. I will always be drawn toward granite and other natural stones for my personal selections. However, I still love quartz products and think they can be the perfect selection for homeowners. Quartz offers

Open and airy with the contrast of light and dark, this kitchen boasts Macbeth quartz, used for its bolder vein pattern with natural warm undertones within. The warmer tones of the stone complement the rich natural wood tones that are used throughout the various design elements used in this project.

whiter background colors and calmer patterns for individuals who feel natural stone is a bit too much, visually. Quartz products also do not have to be resealed in the future, as the sealant is mixed throughout the product while the quartz slab is being manufactured. No matter the decision that is made for stone countertops, we are always happy to make your dream kitchen a reality!

The clean look of natural wood stains and the sharpness of black accents in this kitchen design are striking. Glacier quartz used on this project is one of the best quartz selections to mimic the appearance of natural quartzite. Note its placement above the stove top instead of tile and it is used also for the shelving.

Double Diamond quartz was used for this timeless, clean look. Quartz offers an innovative design element for a lifetime of beauty.

Good

cooks are equipped, not born…

Check out these Creative Kitchen

“must haves” just in time for the Holiday season

Citrus

Juicer and Other Gadgets

A quality citrus juicer is a gadget that can be used for baking, cocktails, marinades and more. Other essential gadgets every well-stocked kitchen needs to have include a peeler, a grater, a silicone spatula, a whisk, and tongs.

Dreamfarm Fold Flat Fluicer

Starting at $16.99

Coffee Maker (electric or manual)

Coffee is a major must-have in most homes and Creative Kitchen has many solutions available. From locally roasted beans and grinders to manual pour-overs and electric machines.

Jura Ena8 Automatic Espresso Machine

Starting at $1,789.99

Stainless Steel Cookware

Stainless steel cookware, with its durability and ability to handle high heat, is ideal for tasks like searing meats and deglazing pans.

Hestan NanoBond 5 Piece Set

Starting at $999.99

(check store for sale pricing)

Salt,

Pepper, and Spice Grinder

Freshly ground spices improve even the simplest of dishes. With a touch of a button grind spices beyond salt and pepper with a single hand operation. With an LED light and interchangeable pods, you’ll reach for it time and time again.

FinaMill Electric Mill Starter Kit

Starting at $44.99

General Purpose Cutting Board

This reversible cutting surface gives you twice the space to cut and prep practically everything. Epicurean’s line of boards are all durable, non-porous, knife-friendly, and dishwasher-safe.

Epicurean Reversible All In One Board

Starting at $29.99

Digital Thermometer

The best temperature measurement device you can have on a budget! Super-fast readings on a huge, backlit screen.

ThermoPop 2 Instant Read Digital Thermometer

Starting at $34.99

Electric Mixer (stand or handheld)

Beating Kitchen Aid for America’s favorite stand mixer, this is what every serious baker needs; the perfect kitchen helper!

Ankarsrum Original Kitchen Machine

Starting at $749.99

Nonstick Cookware

Nonstick pans are perfect for cooking delicate foods like eggs and pancakes, as they prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Swiss Diamond features a nonstick coating reinforced with real diamond crystals, offering unparalleled performance and durability.

Swiss Diamond 10.25 inch Fry Pan with Lid

Starting at $159.99 (check store for sale pricing)

Cast Iron Dutch Oven

A cast iron Dutch oven is highly valued for its exceptional heat retention and even cooking. Its thick, heavy construction allows it to maintain a consistent temperature, making it ideal for slow-cooking, braising, and baking both on the stovetop and in the oven.

Le Creuset 6.75 Quart Wide Oven

Starting at $429.99 (check store for sale pricing)

Japanese Cutlery

Japanese knives from brands such as Shun and Miyabi are celebrated for their precision and sharpness, ideal for delicate tasks like slicing and dicing.

Shun Premier 4 Inch Paring Knife

Starting at $134.99

(check store for sale pricing)

Baking Sheet

A baking sheet can be used for a variety of items, from cookies and pastries to roasted vegetables and sheet pan dinners. USA Pan’s line of bakeware also keeps cleanup easy with a built-in silicone nonstick coating that keeps anything from sticking to your pans.

USA Pan Half Sheet Pan and Rack Set

Starting at $35.99

German Cutlery

German-made brands are renowned for their durability and versatility, making them excellent for heavy-duty tasks like chopping and mincing. Check out brands like Wusthof and Messermeister.

Wusthof Classic Double Serrated Bread Knife

Starting at $150.00

(check store for sale pricing)

BY TERRI FERRAGUT

STUNNING NATURAL STONE

Large slabs of quartzite create a swash of elegance that falls to the floor with a design as striking as an expressionist painting. Combined shades of brick and a palette of greys range from anthracite to green to create surprising and unrepeatable textures only natural stone can offer. antolini.com

TEXTURES TELL IT ALL

Multi-textures in this kitchen add powerful depth and interest. From the sleek marble countertops to the tumbled marbled backsplash, this space shines.

Natural leather straps accent boucle textured seating – a perfect combo! Add in multi-color woods to create a space you never want to leave. annsacks.com

The winds of change not only signal the arrival of the fall season but are also trending design essentials for the busiest area in your home. The kitchen is the hub of any home, the place where families and friends gather to cook, share stories and enjoy meals together. This high-traffic, high-energy space sets an important emotional pace for you, your family and your guests. Inspired Home set out to discover some key elements that you will label — essential.

NEVER A YAWN

Your energy level will remain high in a kitchen stocked with the elevated performance of Smeg Italian kitchen appliances. From toasters to refrigerators, these quality kitchen elements meld high technology and style, resulting in amazing culinary additions to your kitchen. smegusa.com

PANTRY PERKS

A traditional storage area from yesteryear, boosting your kitchen’s functionality to its aesthetics by including a pantry is steadily gaining popularity. This hard-working addition to your home provides organization, hides everyday clutter, stores essentials and frees up your workspace.

THE GOLD AND BLACK STANDARD

Sleek, sophisticated and available in exquisite finishes, this Grohe faucet combines style and impressive engineering. With dual-spray, a full 360° swivel spout and a tough, scratch-resistant surface, the Grohe Essence kitchen faucet meets the demands of a busy kitchen and delivers beauty in your daily living. grohe.com

Granite: Glacier

BEAUTY IN BLACK

Kitchens designed and bathed in black features have emerged as a powerhouse of drama, sophistication and timeless beauty. With their design statement steel and other metallics, natural wood details, bold slab natural stone backsplashes and complementary hardware, they are defining the 2025 kitchen design landscape.

TOTALLY TERRACOTTA

A rich organic color on trend for 2025 is the renaissance of the beautiful aesthetics of terracotta. Made in Spain, Montauk Terracotta flawlessly mimics the signature texture of handmade Moroccan Zellige tile known for its natural surface and color shading. This ceramic tile adds an artisanal touch to any room. tilebar.com

DOUBLE DUTY

The Ruvati Nova collection features a dual-tier ledge and tracks on top of one another with more accessories and functionality. The foldable drying rack, black composite cutting board, bowl/colander and 3-bowl mixing tray with a composite platform are perfected by its offset drain and sloped bottom. ruvati.com

THE INSPIRATION OF LIGHT

Beautifully striated, LED-illuminated, this artisan-blown crystal glass chandelier evokes the rugged beauty of iconic Southwest landscapes. The Hammerton Studio Mesa collection is handcrafted by artisans who use up to five pounds of molten glass in the chandelier. Glass style in Mesa, finish in Classic Silver. hammerton.com

SLEEK AND MINIMALIST

Kohler brings new functionality and sophistication with their Components Collection pot filler. It features a spout with a full 360° rotation which offers superior clearance for filling pots on cooktops and ranges. A shut-off knob on the faucet eliminates the need to reach over hot burners to turn water on. kohler.com.

WARMING COLOR TRENDS

Earthly warm hues are taking center stage in kitchen design, offering a calming palette that brings a grounded feel to the space. Terracotta, teal, sage, olive green, chocolate browns, gray black and gold create a welcoming atmosphere while remaining versatile enough to complement a variety of styles. benjaminmoore.com

INDUSTRIAL EVOLUTION

Tracing its visual inspiration to factories of the early 20th century, the Artesso Kitchen Collection by Brizo® is born out of the spirit and style of the Industrial Revolution. From its forged metal and rustic elements, emerges a sophisticated and hard-working bridge faucet and side sprayer that you will love. brizo.com

BACK TO BEAUTIFUL BASICS

Combining a sophisticated tile color palette with a fluted 3D surface, the Waves Collection offers a modern and sophisticated interpretation of the world’s most coveted natural stone – genuine marble. Honed marble, elegant veining and precise fabrication create these modern and luxurious fluted tiles. tilebar.com.

VISIT

Double Trouble Gallery

Barbara Benda, award-winning artist and twin sister Beverly Benda offer a beautiful selection of original art at their unique home-based gallery.

watercolors | acrylics | mixed-media collages all price ranges | perfect for home or office

MY FALL ART EVENT SCHEDULE

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 28 | 9-4PM BLING, BLING Vendor Show Fargo Fine Arts Club

601 4th Street South, Fargo, ND

Original watercolors and acrylics, priced for gift-giving.

SAT. & SUN., OCTOBER 5-6 | 12-6PM FMVA STUDIO CRAWL

Mourning Dove Studio 809 20th Street North, Moorhead, MN

Pick up a brochure at local F-M businesses or download one at fmva.org.

NOVEMBER 13, 20, 26 | 1-3:30PM (3 DIFFERENT CLASSES)

Moorhead Community Education Classes Vista Center for Education, 2777 34th Street South, Moorhead, MN Seeing Things Differently I, Seeing Things Differently II and Let’s Sketch Birds! Sign up for 1 or all 3 at Moorhead Community Ed

Call for appointment!

spices, orange & honey Fall Flavors—

STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY LAUREN FERRAGUT CARLSON

he more I bake my way through my favorite Scandinavian cookbooks, I realize that “warm spices” or “winter spices” are not confined to just cold winter months. Growing up, cinnamon, nutmeg, clove and allspice took center stage by October and were nonexistent by January.

My all-time favorite is the floral spice

of cardamom, which I equate to kringla and Christmas; however, this is not the case in Scandinavian baking. Cinnamon buns with clove, cardamom cake and rolls flavored with nutmeg make an appearance all year round. They are also delightfully prevalent in savory cooking such as Swedish meatballs. In my favorite pastime of perusing new recipes, I recently came across

honey cake with orange buttercream from my favorite Scandinavian Baking cookbook by Trine Hahnemann. I immediately wanted to give it a try. This cake is filled with the lovely warmth of cinnamon, ginger, clove and orange zest and, although it may sound perfect for a cold weather season, it is often enjoyed in the Nordic springtime. The natural sweetener is honey, which historically

Fall weather brings chilly days and plenty of reasons to enjoy this luscious Scandinavian cake with honey, orange and spice in every delicious bite. Enjoy it with a cup of freshly brewed coffee.

was used before sugar became widely available in Scandinavia. Honey cakes have been part of the Scandinavian baking tradition for over 200 years, the most famous originating from Denmark.

This cake is a dense, spicy and citrusforward flavor experience. It is not uncommon traditionally to leave the buttercream and orange glaze out of the recipe, but I prefer it because the orange glaze zest brightens the deep warm spice experience of the cake.

This gratifying cake stands well on its own and is perfect for toasting because it is so incredibly and deliciously dense. I enjoy using it for French toast, however, I proudly call it Scandinavian toast.

The cake is simple to make. The only advice I have to offer you is to spray your liquid measuring cup with oil to ease the release of the flavorful honey to savor every tasteful drop. The

SCANDINAVIAN HONEY CAKE WITH ORANGE BUTTERCREAM

Although delicious all year, this warm-spiced cake is especially satisfying with a cup of coffee on a chilly fall day.

CAKE:

7 Tbsp. butter, plus more for baking dish

4½ oz. honey

3 eggs, lightly beaten

1/3 cup soft brown sugar

21/3 cups all-purpose flour

1½ tsp. baking soda

3 tsp. ground cinnamon

2 tsp. ground ginger

1 tsp. ground cloves

2 Tbsp. finely grated organic orange zest

7/8 cup crème fraîche

BUTTERCREAM:

11/8 cups butter, softened

1¼ cups powdered sugar Finely grated zest of 2 oranges

FROSTING:

2-3 Tbsp. orange juice

11/3 cups powdered sugar

1 Tbsp. finely grated organic orange zest

The warm spice flavors of cinnamon, cloves and ginger mingle with the natural goodness of honey and are the key players in this delicious cake.

The aroma is heavenly as the honey cake cools. When the cake has completely cooled, cut the cake horizontally into thirds with a sharp serrated knife.

METHOD:

Preheat the oven to 350°. Butter a 12-by4½-inch pan and line the base with parchment paper.

Melt the butter and honey in a saucepan and let cool a little. Meanwhile, mix the eggs and brown sugar until pale yellow. Sift in the flour, baking soda and all the spices. Fold in gently; then do the same with the honey mixture. Finally, fold in the zest and crème fraîche. Pour into the prepared tin.

Bake 1 hour. A toothpick or skewer should come out clean.

Meanwhile, make the buttercream. In a small bowl, beat all the ingredients until smooth. When the cake is cooled, cut it horizontally into thirds with a serrated knife. Spread the buttercream to the bottom and middle layers; then reassemble the cake.

Mix all the ingredients for the frosting and spread it over the top. Let the frosting set before serving.

This cake is wonderful with strong black coffee or espresso.

Fresh organic oranges and orange zest pack a flavorful pop of natural goodness that mingles with the creamy texture of the buttercream.

Three beautiful layers of Scandinavian fall flavors come alive with a frosting glaze of fresh orange zest, orange juice and creamy fresh butter.

crème fraiche? What is

Originating in the Brittany and Normandy regions of France, crème fraîche is used throughout Europe. A French favorite, crème fraiche is an exquisitely rich cultured cream with a thick, creamy texture and a tart, slightly nutty flavor. Incredibly versatile, crème fraîche may be used as a base for dips and sauces, as an ingredient in baking, or as a simple topping for pies and soups. Unlike sour cream, crème fraîche will not curdle over high heat or separate when mixed with wine or vinegar. It retains a rich, smooth texture and adds depth of flavor – perfect for soups and sauces. Whipped and sweetened, it makes a delicious dollop of rich flavor

A chef and food writer, Trine Hahnemann is an enthusiastic advocate for sustainable solutions, organic sourcing and simple food cooked with love. With her great knowledge of Danish food and culture, she writes for and appears regularly in the media in America and Britain.

on top of your favorite desserts. A simple rule for you to follow: Use crème fraîche as an enhancement to any recipe that calls for sour cream.

HERE IS A FAVORITE OF MINE:

Combine 1 cup whipping cream and 2 tablespoons cultured buttermilk in a glass container. Cover and let stand at room temperature (about 70°F) from 8 to 24 hours, or until very thick. Stir well before covering. The cream will keep about 2 weeks in the refrigerator.

Although you may easily find this cream at your local market, making it at home is easy!

Trina Hahnemann

Italian Fall Remembrances

BY GRANVILLE WOOD

Summer is now in the rearview mirror as we cruise forward into one of my favorite times of the year — autumn. The sensory explosion of autumn envelopes us with colors, aromas, a feeling of lightness in the cool fresh air and the smell of an open fire that just brings out the primordial urge to cook.

Autumn brings back memories of rolling in piles of raked leaves and getting rosy-cheeked playing street hockey in the cooler-than-usual

hunt. All enveloped in a cloud of smoke from smoldering fallen leaves being burnt — yes, you could burn your leaves back then. It was a community. Grapes purchased from the local depot would be brought to one house where the men would crush them into juice and ready it for the process of bottling. This yearly batch would be bottled and shared amongst the participants. Meanwhile, at another house, baskets of beautifully ripe tomatoes would be in the process of being made into a huge batch of sauce under the watchful eye of Nonna. Vine-ripened tomatoes, salt pork, onions, garlic and basil simmered until they melted into a beautiful sauce then run through the food mill and canned.

My first taste of this new culture came in the form of a pizza I had never seen before and haven’t seen since. I was at a friend’s house for a family get-together. Asked if we were hungry, the host proceeded to flip open the lid to a large pizza-type box. Inside was the largest pizza I had ever seen, and it was folded in half! She unfolded it and now it was the largest ever. She cut two squares of this soft, doughy, room-temperature pie smeared with the most vibrant tomato sauce, and I was transported from my AngloSaxon world into another — and what a world. I satiated myself on those flavors from Sicily to Tuscany. Though young, I retained those memories. Years later, I realized them again as the chef of an iconic familyowned Italian restaurant in Palm Beach.

air. The kitchen is filled with aromas of freshly baked pies and cobblers.

For me, there are other sensory memories. In my formative early years, I was surrounded by many new immigrant families from different areas of Italy. I was immersed in a culture that was vibrant, energetic and passionate. Every autumn, this part of my street was alive with the smells of tomato sauce cooking, grapes being crushed for wine and grills cooking rabbits and quail from a morning

Autumn is a great time to be in an Italian kitchen. There’s a passion for the bounty from their summer gardens and local farms. They enjoy a plethora of vegetables, squashes, pumpkins, eggplants, hazelnuts, porcini mushrooms and truffles that partner with various pastas, alongside a ragu of wild boar or other game.

There are so many areas in Italy, each with its regional specialties. Here are a few special recipes and all the ingredients are readily available. If you come across some wild boar meat then I will share a great wild boar ragu recipe, too!

Enjoy!

RIBOLLITA

Similar to minestrone with its large number of vegetables and tomatoes, ribollita is thickened with day-old bread and potatoes instead of pasta.

INGREDIENTS

1 bunch kale, cut leaves into ribbons, discard stalks

1 small head cabbage, cut leaves into ribbons, discard stalks

1 bunch red Swiss chard, cut leaves into ribbons, discard stalks

2 russet potatoes, peeled and cut into medium dice

3 large carrots, peeled and cut into medium dice

2 28 oz. cans of whole San Marzano tomatoes (or other good-quality peeled whole)

2 medium zucchinis, cut into medium dice

2 stalks of celery, diced

4 leeks, white part only, sliced and washed

6 garlic cloves, sliced

1 8 oz. can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed

½ cup shredded basil leaves

Coarse sea salt to taste

2 quarts water

Top with:

2 cups day-old unsliced Ciabatta cut into large pieces and air-dried for two days

Good olive oil (lots of it for my taste) Red pepper flakes

METHOD

In a large pot, warm a generous amount of olive oil (half a cup), add the leeks, garlic, celery and carrot. Cook until soft but not brown. Add potatoes and the ribbons of kale, cabbage and chard, wilt the greens. Toss in zucchini. Crush tomatoes with your hand and add along with juice. Season with red pepper flakes. Add water, basil and bring to a simmer, add beans. Season with salt. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer for an hour. Ladle into bowls, add some chunks of bread and drizzle with a generous amount of olive oil. Sprinkle red pepper flakes.

PUMPKIN ALFREDO

Creamy, rich and delicious! Perfect on a chilly fall day.

INGREDIENTS

1 cup roasted pumpkin puree

1 cup heavy cream

2 oz. mascarpone cheese

½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

METHOD

1 ball burrata cheese

1 Tbsp. minced garlic

1 Tbsp. minced shallot

Salt & white pepper to taste

8 oz. fettuccine noodles

In a saucepan, sweat garlic and shallot (on low heat) until soft but not brown. Add cream and pumpkin, bring to a simmer and add mascarpone and grated Parmesan; simmer until cheese is melted and incorporated. In another pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook pasta until just tender. Reserve a cup of cooking liquid, drain pasta and toss with warm sauce, season with salt and pepper. Divide into four warm bowls, and garnish with torn pieces of burrata and grated Parmesan.

Roasted Pumpkin Puree: Wash and split a small pumpkin of your choice (avoid Jack-o-Lantern pumpkins), split and remove seeds. Add a knob of butter to each half and roast in a 350-degree oven until soft. When cool enough to handle scoop out flesh and puree until smooth.

“ Everything you see I owe to spaghetti. — Sophia Loren

”

ORECCHIETTE PASTA WITH BROCCOLI RABE

This is a rather simple dish but packed with freshness and flavor.

INGREDIENTS

Olive oil

4 cloves garlic, minced

2 lbs. broccoli rabe, trimmed of leaves and stems chopped, reserve florets

12 orecchiette pasta

Freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Red pepper flakes

Coarse sea salt to taste

1 cup panko breadcrumbs, roasted in olive oil

METHOD

You need to adjust seasoning to taste as well as the amount of olive oil used. I like a good amount of oil. In a sauté pan with a lid, cook the garlic in a generous amount of olive oil until soft. Add the broccoli rabe and toss to coat. Add a small amount of water and cover. Cook to set the color of the broccoli and until tender. In another pot, cook the pasta until tender and drain. Add pasta to broccoli and toss well. Add a generous amount of freshly grated cheese and season with red pepper flakes and sea salt. Top with breadcrumb mixture.

Food Tips

What is broccoli rabe?

Rapini or broccoli rabe is a green cruciferous vegetable, with leaves, buds and stems that are all edible. The buds somewhat resemble broccoli, but do not form a large head. Rapini is known for its bitter taste and is particularly associated with Mediterranean cuisine.

What is a burrata ball?

Burrata is a traditional Italian cow’s milk cheese made from mozzarella and cream. The outer casing is solid mozzarella while the inside is stracciatella, a mixture of pulled mozzarella curds mixed with fresh cream.