Jan Feb 2014 TownTaster

TownTaster M

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Jan/Feb 2014

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Volume 3 • Issue 2

Page 18

Healthy Recipes to Start the New Year Right Page 16

Page 7

Florida Fruit Wines Page 9

w w w.To w nTa s t e r. c o m

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Jan/Feb 2014 Volume 3, Issue 2 Publisher

PCI Publishing, LLC

Editor

Valerie Longo 941-932-8884

Co-Editor

Nadia Perez

Web Design

Syd Krawczyk Concept Digital Media

Social Media Lenny Longo

Graphic Design Mara Stork

Contributing Authors Nadia Perez The Green Winer Sara & Harlan McGuire Kelly Parr Katy Patton The Saucy Sicilian

Cover photos courtesy of Cruz Photography Town Taster and PCI Publishing, LLC does not endorse or warrant any products or services contained herein, unless otherwise expressly noted. The opinions expressed herein are those of the authors.

Submitted materials will not be returned. Whole or part of this publication may not be used or duplicated in any way without written permission from PCI Publishing, LLC. Advertising rates and information available from: PCI Publishing, LLC, 1202 Gary Avenue, Suite 13, Ellenton, FL 34222 Phone: 941-548-1908 Town Taster is published bi-monthly.

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Happy New Year From the Editor

Valerie Longo

Happy New Year from your fellow foodies at TownTaster! Another year has come to a close and we begin 2014 with a renewed energy and a yearning for new foods to try. What is your resolution? Will you try to eat better, try new things, be more active, or to make a point to NOT make a resolution?

No matter what you have resolved to do or not do, we all share the same ongoing eagerness to explore new foods. We hope you enjoy this issue and pass it along to a friend.

Our motto, For the Love of Food takes many shapes as we bring you some new and unique perspectives in this issue. We bring you some healthy recipes to start the year right and the opportunity to learn all about the Pomelo, a citrus that is a relative of the grapefruit. This season brings the chance for you to enjoy all the local seasonal fruits that are available. In addition to the Pomelo, strawberries are in peak season and are ripe and ready for picking at local farms.

While we know health is important to you, we can’t overlook the fact that we are also getting ready to celebrate a season of love! We know everyday is the perfect day to celebrate your loved ones, but why not surprise them with a little extra this February 14th. Look around and see all the fabulous restaurants ready to welcome you and roll out the red carpet for your visit. Seafood, steak, hamburgers, pizza – we have something for every palate.

Don’t stop there… to make that expression of love EXTRA special for that chocolate lover in your life – we have what you need! Visit Sirard’s Chocolate to experience decadent arrays of chocolate in many forms – truffles, dipped specialties, pastries and so much more. You will be glad you did!

So what are you waiting for, get planning – for that someone special and also to incorporate some healthy eating into your everyday life. It is all about moderation! Enjoy and we will see you next time…

For the LOVE of FOOD!

2

C ~ Carmen

ary

“Love and food are the two greatest things in the world, and I’ve got a love for food.”

Our 5th Ann g n i iver at r b s ele

Winemaker Dinner January 27 th

Hosted by Italian Winemaker

Marco Fizialetti - Call for Reservations -

Carmen & Kay Rizzo, Owners

Ask about our weekly specials Dishes are fresh & made to order Desserts straight from Italy Full Liquor Martini Bar

Live Entertainment Most Nights

Karaoke – Friday 10pm Tues - Wed: 5:00 pm - 10:00 pm Thu - Fri: 11:00 am - 10:00 pm Sat - Sun: 5:00 pm - 10:00 pm

515 27th St E. Bradenton, FL 34208

Born in 1961, Marco Fizialetti graduated in Economy and Commerce in Tuscany where he met his wife Lia, the daughter of Alessandro François and moved to the François' Castello di Querceto estate. Marco became very passionate about the world of wine and began working as a representative of Querceto. Marco has always accentuated the value of the history and tradition of Castello di Querceto and its wines, continuously striving to improve the terroir and characteristics of the vineyards and the aging process of the wines.

(941) 745-1540 carmensitaliancafe.com

Winner: First Place Reader's Choice 2012-13 New Restaurant

on the cover

in this issue Pomelos A Healthier Grapefruit Alternative.................. 7

The Green Winer Florida Fruit Wines.................... 9 The Saucy Sicilian A Culinary Tour of Sicily........... 13

Reviewed by You Sharky's................................. 15 The Feast............................... 22 Healthier Recipes to Start the New Year Right...... 16 Tastes of Our Childhood Bringing Back the Traditions of Wholesome Cooking & Eating..... 18

Eat Fresh. Eat Local............... 23

4 Photo by Cruz Photography

JANUARY /FEBRUARY

Taste-ful Events

January 9

Jan 27

Come on down to Mixon Fruit Farms and bring your dancin’ shoes. Bluegrass 5 piece band, The Walker Brothers, is sure to get the crowd up and stompin their feet. Soft drinks, food, beer and wine for purchase. $15 at the gate. 6pm-9pm. FREE Parking.

2527 27th Street East. Bradenton, FL.

Join Carmen and his staff along with feature guest as you explore the world of fine Italian Cuisine and perfectly paired wines.

Call 941-745-1540 for reservations.

Mixon’s Concert In The Grove

January 11

Jimmy Mazz - An Italian Dinner Show

Carmen’s Wine Dinner – Winemaker from Italy

February 6-9

30th Annual Greek Glendi – A Greek Festival

Dinner at 6pm, Show at 7pm. Sponsored by the Italian American Club of Venice. Donations: Members $25, Guests $30. Tickets call Barbara (941) 493-8883

Traditional Greek food & pastries & live music.

St. Barbara Greek Orthodox Church at 7671 N. Lockwood Ridge Road. Admission is $4.

941-355-2616 www.stbarbarafestival.org

January 12

February 8

Live music, fun prize giveaways, games and of course, loads of the world's greatest stuffed burgers beginning at 1:00pm. All proceeds from raffle prizes donated to local non-profit, Selah Freedom, as January is Human Trafficking Awareness month. Full Belly is located at 8742 E SR 70, Bradenton, across from Rosedale Golf Community.

Selby 5 Points Park. Learn from Practitioners, Life Coaches, organic gardeners, vegan chefs and more.

Free Admission. 941-225-1425 www.ecofestsrq.com

January 12

Murder in 3D at Florida Railroad Museum, Parrish. $47-$55 per person. FRRM.org or 941-776-0906.

Full Belly Stuffed Burgers 1st Birthday

6 Annual Jewish Food Festival th

9 am to 3 pm at Temple Sinai. All the traditional comfort foods and more. Free Admission. Eat in or take out. 4631 S. Lockwood Ridge Road, Sarasota.

For more call 941-924-1802.

January 16-26

Manatee County Fair

Cotton candy, elephant ears, corndogs & more at the annual Manatee County Fair taking place at the Manatee County Fairgrounds, 1303 17th St. W., Palmetto. General admission: $8 for ages 13 and older, $7 for seniors 55 and older, $5 for kids 6-12, free for ages 5 and under. manateecountyfair.com

January 25 and February 1 Hobo Campfire Cookout

Florida Railroad Museum, Parrish. Take the diesel powered train to the Hobo Camp and enjoy hot dogs and roasted marshmallows while sipping lemonade.

Fare includes round trip ticket plus food and drink at the campfire. $14/$18 per person. 941-776-0906 FRRM.org

World Wellness Eco Fest 2014

February 21-23, February 28-March 2, March 7-9 Murder Mystery Dinner Train

February 20-23

26th Annual Venice Italian Feast & Carnival At the Venice Airport Paved Midway. Features all your Italian favorites from Sausage & Peppers, Meatballs, Pizza Fritta, Cannollis, Calzones, Spaghetti, Ravioli, Chicken and much more. Admission is free. Parking is $5. Food and carnival rides at cost. Sponsored by the Italian American Club of Venice. www.italianamericanclubofvenice.com

March 1 and 2

Mixon Fruit Farms Orange Blossom Festival

The World Famous Tightrope walkers “The Wallenda’s”, 200 foot zip line, pony rides, bungee jumping, food (Sausage, Burgers, Pizza, Philly Cheese steak, FAMOUS AMISH DONUTS, Strawberry Shortcakes & more), contests and fun! Come see the brand new “Mixon’s Kids gamin’ Grove”. 9am-5pm.

2527 27th Street East. Bradenton, FL 5

If it’s not Amazing, it’s not on the Menu

#1 on Trip Advisor for Bradenton, Arts & Eats has made a name for itself with its casual elegance, diverse menu, impeccably prepared foods, and live music by local musicians. Open Mic every Wednesday night. Arts & Eats isn’t just a restaurant, it’s an experience.

Feb 7-8 Fri 6-9:30pm • Sat 11am-4pm

February Artwalk Sweethearts Stroll Treat your favorite sweetie to a Lovers Stroll through this quaint 1920's village of galleries, cafes and shops.

Discover special Valentine's treats and surprises along the way. For Sweethearts of All Ages!

Village of the Arts • 1114 12th Street West, Bradenton FL 34205

941.201.6647 • www.artsandeatsfl.com

Feb 21-22 11am-4pm

Annual Open Studio Tour Meet your favorite Village artist and watch them create unique one of a kind pieces of art! This once a year special event invites the public to visit Village artists at work, see their studios, and get a look at the creative process. Painters, sculptors, jewelers, fiber artists, quilters, folk artists, chefs and more will be demonstrating their wonderful talents right before your eyes!

Specializing in Valentines Chocolate, Boxes and Gifts in All Sizes.

Truffles, Chocolates, and Dipped Specialties • Valentines Chocolates and Dessert Pastry Platters • Corporate Gifts • Office Lunch Platters

Sign up for our news letter at sirardschocolate.com for up and coming events, wine and chocolate tastings and cooking classes.

Sirard’s Chocolate Café

5170 Clark Rd., Sarasota, FL 34233 (in the Publix Shopping Center at Clark-Honore) (941) 923-2462 • www.sirardschocolate.com Monday-Saturday 9am~6pm • Serving Lunch in our Café from 11:00am~2:30pm 6

Pomelos A Healthier Grapefruit Alternative By: Nadia M. Perez

In 2011, when a study conducted by the University of Florida about the potential interference of grapefruit consumption with certain prescription drugs came out, Mixon Farms of Bradenton decided to add 60 new pomelo trees to their already existing 12 trees. What in this study prompted such a response, you might wonder? While the University of Florida’s study had more to do with developing a grapefruit that had a lower level of furanocoumarin, the family of chemicals in the group which is the key element causing all the interference, there was mention of a relative of the grapefruit called the Pomelo which, in its various forms, was found to have either extremely low levels or none of the furanocoumarins in them at all. Knowing this makes the pomelo a very attractive substitute to the grapefruit when one’s not able to consume the latter because it might interfere with one’s medications.

Pomelos are considered to be the grapefruit’s grandfather, native to Malaysia and Southeast Asia, this citrus fruit has been introduced into many tropical countries as well as the States of California, Florida and Hawaii.

The fruit is also commonly known by the names of pulmetto, shaddock, French chadec, Bali lemon, Chinese grapefruit and more. Unlike the grapefruit’s

bitter tang, the pomelo is a mixture of the sweetness of a melon with the tangy flavor of a grapefruit. Light and refreshing, it is perfect first thing in the morning or as a cold snack after having been refrigerated a while.

The pomelo is also a low calorie and low fat food with a good amount of fiber which helps to create a full feeling in one’s stomach thereby helping one eat less. Rich in Vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants, the pomelo offers up an immune boosting cocktail of vitamins and minerals that also help to prevent the spread of cancer cells in the body and it also contains spermadine, an anti-aging agent. In Asian countries, the pomelo is also used for medicinal purposes from curing hangovers to easing arthritic pain when applied as a balm made from the pomelo rind and ginger. Such an amazing fruit is surely worth a try!

Be sure to choose the firmer and heavier fruits.

Blemished skin is ok but shy away from soft and dull skin. Pomelos will keep for a week in the refrigerator or a few days at room temperature and you can also juice them, freeze the juice and use in recipes that call for citrus zest. Pomelos are locally available at Mixon Fruit Farms during citrus season through April so get them while they are still fresh and enjoy!

7

7t h AnnuAl

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8

Florida Fruit Wines

What would you think if I told you that ‘Florida Fruits’ are the best in the world?

What would you think if I told you that wines made from ‘Florida fruits’ are the best in the world?

Well, the answer to both of these statements is…

TRUE! From the small Florida Family Farm to the large corporate grower, Florida’s farmers are committed to coaxing the best fruits from the soils of Florida!

As you’re reading this Blog, Florida growers are tending and harvesting the most succulent strawberries, oranges, tangerines, red grapefruits, guavas, key limes, bananas and much more!

Thousands of acres of tomatoes (beef steak, cherry,

grape, roma’s, etc.) are being planted for the Spring/ Summer harvest! As our northern states are locked in snow and ice, a virtual convoy of trucks and railcars are moving Florida’s fresh fruits northward.

As our winter changes into late Spring and early Summer, fresh Florida Blueberries and Peaches ripen in Florida’s warm sunshine.

As late Summer deepens and Fall arrives, Florida’s fresh grape harvest fills the grape buckets to the brim!

At the peak of each of these Florida fruit harvests, some of these delicious fruits make their way into the care of Florida’s premier vintners. All the goodness of these fresh Florida fruits is transformed into beautiful “Florida Fruit Wines”.

Made properly (Unfiltered), these gorgeous Florida Fruit Wines will retain all the unique tastes of the tree ripened fruit for decades to come!

For way too long, we have relegated our fruit wines to a backseat status. Believe me, it’s time to move these gems to the head of the line! If you want a real treat for your taste buds, sally up to the wine tasting table and sip a sample of Florida ‘Orange’ wine, Florida ‘Red Grapefruit‘ wine, Florida ‘Cherry Tomato’ wine or, perhaps, Florida ‘Strawberry’ wine!

Whatever the season (Spring/Summer/Fall or Winter) you can count of Florida’s premier vineyard/ wineries to produce the best fruit wines in the world!

For, you see, it’s rather easy when you’re in Florida and the best fruits are grown at your backdoor!!

Until we next time… ”Salute and Happy Days”!

(This ‘Green Winer’ wine Blog is created by me, Larry Woodham. The views and statements contained herein are exclusively mine. They DO Not necessarily reflect the views of TownTaster magazine. If you have any comments or questions on this Blog or suggestions for future Blogs, please email me at BunkerHillVine@aol.com.

Peruvian American Cuisine South American Tapas 6621 Midnight Pass Rd. in Crescent Plaza Just over the south bridge on Siesta Key

941.349.1792

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Tapas • Fresh Seafood Peruvian Specialties American Favorites Vegetarian • Gluten Free Select Wine & Beer Sunset Specials Takeout and Catering

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A Wish Fulfilled. The Ones You Love.

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No CDD Fees at Harbour Isle!

Unlike many of our competitors, Harbour Isle has been developed without utilizing Community Development District (CDD) Funding. This means you won’t see annual CDD assessments on your tax bill, which saves you thousands of dollars over the life of your home! Once you compare, the choice is clearly Minto.

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For more information about our award-winning homes and communities throughout Florida, visit mintofla.com 12300 Manatee Ave. West, Bradenton, FL 34209 On SR 64. Turn right just before the Anna Maria Bridge. © Minto Communities, LLC 2013. Prices and availability subject to change without notice. Oral representations cannot be relied upon a correctly stating the representations of the developer. For correct representations, make reference to the purchase agreement and homeowner documents, including the documents required by section 718.503, Florida Statutes, to be furnished by a developer to a buyer or lessee in condominium communities. Not an offer where prohibited by state statutes. All rights reserved. Content may not be reproduced, copied, altered, distributed, stored or transferred in any form or by any means without express written permission Artist’s renderings, dimensions, specifications, prices and features are approximate and subject to change without notice. Minto, the Minto logo, Harbour Isle and the Harbour Isle logo are trademarks of Minto Communities, LLC and/or its affi liates. CGC 1519880. 02/2014

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Famous Crêpes Salads Sandwiches Quiche Dessert Crêpes Delicious homemade recipes such as Bouillabaisse, Beef Bourguignon and Escargots Island Creperie 127 Bridge St. Bradenton Beach 941-778-1011

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Indoor /Outdoor seating Senor Siesta Restaurant 5110 Ocean Boulevard (Siesta Key Village Plaza) 941- 349-0818 • www.senorsiesta.com

Come see our new menu! • Osso Buco Milanese • 16 oz Prime Porterhouse Grilled Florida Lobster Tail with Orange Honey Butter • Beer and Wine Available Anna Maria Islands Largest Craft Microbrew Beer Selection

12

The Saucy Sicilian

By Gaetano Cannata of Ortygia Restaurant

A Culinary Tour of Sicily Binvinutu

Swordfish Milanese

(Welcome)

Sicily is a magical island, full of mystery and wonder. It is also a place steeped in tradition. Nowhere is this more apparent than in its cuisine.

Even though throughout history Sicily has been over run by countless civilizations, most of whom have left an indelible mark on its cuisine, its inhabitants are very set in their ways on how certain foods should be prepared. This was made apparent to me on many occasions on our most recent trip to Sicily this past summer.

A perfect, yet simple example is the time I got up early while the others were still asleep to pick up some olives, bread, cheeses, and other delicacies for breakfast that morning at the local outdoor market.

The market at Ortygia is a timeless sight to behold. Vendors today are still selling their products in the same place and in the same way they’ve always done it for over 1000 years.

Vendors all are singing a song telling you why their product is the best one in the market. Locals arguing with them telling them their prices are too high. Fresh, exotic fruits and vegetables of all size, colors, and shapes, some recognizable and some not are on display for all to see. Nuts, cheeses, meats, olives, breads, oils and flowers can be purchased as well. Prepared foods to eat there or to take home for dinner later in the evening are also available. It’s entertaining to watch the snail vendor attempting to coral hundreds of snails as all of them very slowly are trying to get away. The smell of fresh fish, roasted vegetables, and fresh baked bread, permeate the atmosphere .There are so many varieties of fish, it’s mind boggling. A half dozen varieties of squid alone, not to mention octopus, cernia (grouper),

Serves 2 fresh sardines, anchovies, and countless other varieties just caught hours earlier look perfect enough to eat raw.

My favorite is the tuna and swordfish .The entire fish is laid out with the head cut off on display to verify its freshness to potential buyers. When you tell the vendor how many kilos you would like, with one swipe of the cleaver, the exact amount is cut, weighed and wrapped.

One of the venders insisted that I take one of his fire roasted onions home as a gift because it was so good he knew I would be back for more. He told me to dress it in the best olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt and pepper. “Perfetto”, he said. As I turned to walk away, a woman yelled for me and at him almost angrily in Italian and said, “No, you have to add a bit of dried oregano.” The vendor slapped himself on the forehead and exclaimed, “Of course! How could I have forgotten!!?” A great majority of the old dishes have been made the same way for hundreds of years without variation as if to imply that one shouldn’t mess with perfection. (By the way, the onion was outstanding!)

Down the street from the apartment we stayed at was this awesome little chef run osteria. His food was Sicilian, but not traditional, somewhat like mine. He would create dishes, for example like swordfish with blueberries which most of the Sicilians we spoke to said was not the way a Sicilian should be cooking, as it wasn’t a time honored, old school Sicilian style dish. We all thought Sebastiano was an incredibly creative chef and we ate at his little restaurant, Il Blu frequently.

One dish he served was non traditional in 2 ways. First it was prepared

For the Fish 6 ounces of swordfish or mahi Flour for dredging 2 eggs beaten lightly 1 cup of panko bread crumbs Course sea salt ¼ cup of extra virgin olive oil 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter For the Salad One handful of organic baby arugula Half handful of organic watercress Fresh lemon and extra virgin olive oil Recipe Butterfly the fish and put between 2 pieces of plastic wrap. Pound lightly with the flat side of a kitchen mallet or the bottom of a water glass until about 1/8 to 1/16 of an inch thin. Dredge lightly in flour; dip it in the beaten egg, than cover both sides in panko or unseasoned home made bread crumbs. Salt to taste. While the fish is resting, heat butter and olive oil together on medium heat and when the butter sizzles, add the fish and cook until golden brown, about 3 minutes.

Flip over carefully and continue coking for 2 more minutes. In the meantime, mix together in a bowl, the arugula, watercress, small squeeze of lemon, about a teaspoon of olive oil, and a small pinch of salt to taste. Remove the fish from the pan to a plate, top with the salad and serve.

Milanese style which one doesn’t do in Sicily, and second he prepared it with a t-bone steak with the bone in.

It was unusual, but fabulous!!!

Taking his lead, when I returned home I decided to also prepare my variation of a Milanese style dish with fish as opposed to the traditional preparation with veal. I modified it further by topping it with a spicy arugula salad. My Sicilian grandmother would have frowned upon this, but I think Sebastiano would be proud.

13

Make Your Valentine’s Day Reservations now!

Unique shops, great food and eclectic art… no shoes required!

The Greenest Little Mainstreet in America

Upcoming Events January 17th: Porch Party Stroll the Avenue on Friday evening. Shops will be open late with munchies, music and more. Then stroll down by the Bay and enjoy Friday Fest with bands and food booths!

Come on out and enjoy what Pine Avenue has to offer. You won't be disappointed! 5:00pm - 8:00pm.

Happy Hour Special 4-6pm • Appetizers $5 2 for 1 Cocktails • Full Liquor Bar • Live Entertainment

January 18th-19th: Anna Maria City Chalk Festival The young and young at heart can come out to create their works of art on the sidewalks for all to enjoy. The street will be full of color! Artists from around the country will be creating beautiful pieces up and down the middle of Pine Avenue! 10:00am

Little Italy in the heart of Anna Maria Gourmet Takeout Bakery & Pizza Italian Gourmet Foods Daily Lunch and Dinner Specials Fresh Baked Artesian Italian Breads Pastries & Cookies Wood Burning Brick Oven Pizza Off-Premises Catering for All Occasions Store Made Fresh Pasta & Ravioli Made Daily Fresh Mozzarella, Italian Cheeses Store Made Fresh Italian Sausages & Meats

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Pita’s/Gyros Overstuffed Wraps 100% Fruit Smoothies 212C Pine Ave Anna Maria, FL

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Reviewed

By

You

2519 Gulf Drive North Bradenton Beach, FL Ph: (941) 779-9151 www.sharkysseagrill.com

A special thanks to this issue's TownTaster

Katy Patton

for giving her stamp of approval to Sharky's Seagrill

About our TownTaster:

Age: Mid 45 Hometown: Pittsburgh, PA Current City: Bradenton, FL Hobbies: Reading, cooking, and spending time with family.

Favorite Food: Fresh seafood and pasta

ED APPROV

Each issue, our TownTaster reviews are completed by loyal readers who want a chance to share their dining experiences.

If you would like a chance to be chosen as a TownTaster and enjoy a dinner for two - register on our website TownTaster.com

15

Healthy Recipes to Start the New Year Right A busy holiday season for most means a lot of unhealthy eating as we bounce from office parties to friendly get-togethers and find that we’ve alarmingly put on “Christmas cookie” weight. We’ve compiled a few recipes from local foodies to help us ring in the New Year with great tasting yet nutritious treats. Let the fun begin!

Photo by Johnna Brynn

Kelly Parr

16

Blog: www.kellyparr.org Website: www.freedomquestinternational.org As an international speaker, author, Doctor of Naturopathy and Natural Health Counselor, Kelly Parr imparts a fresh revelation of living

a healthy lifestyle – body, soul & spirit to women around the world!

Her teaching style will impact you in a very profound way as she covers

A Toast to Solomon Strengthen me with raisins; refresh me with apples, for I am faint with love!

Song of Solomon 2:5

2 apples 2-3 dates 2-3 figs Handful of goji berries 1cup grape juice

2 pears 2-3 apricots ½ cup walnuts ½ teaspoon allspice

Mix in a bowl chopped apples, pears, dates, apricots and figs. Toss in the coarsely chopped walnuts and a handful of goji berries. Serve in a fancy glass sprinkled with allspice and drenched with grape juice. Definitely enough to serve two!

TIP: Song of Solomon is no ordinary love song.

Reading it will awaken all your senses- including your taste buds!

Blue Mesquite Smoothie Mesquite powder is an excellent source of fiber, high in protein and rich in lysine.

Additionally strong in calcium, magnesium, potassium, iron, and zinc. Also has a low glycemic level and improves digestion! How’s that for a

2 cups almond milk * 1 cup frozen bananas

1 cup frozen blueberries 1 teaspoon mesquite powder

Blend all ingredients in a high-powered blender for 30-45 seconds to desired thickness. Pour into fancy glass and top with fresh blueberries.

TIP: Mesquite powder is sweet like molasses with a slight undertone of caramel.

Try adding it to a truffle recipe or sprinkle some over home-made ice cream!

Recipe Photos by Johnna Brynn, www.johnnabrynn.com

topics such as: detoxification, fasting, juicing, healthy recipes and more!

You will be inspired, educated and empowered with other women as you experience a greater level of freedom along your journey towards living health!

Kelly and her husband Bob have

traveled to over 18 countries and lived in SE Asia as teachers for 15 years. They are the founders of Freedom Quest International (FQI), a 501(c)(3) non-profit ministry since 2007. FQI brings a unique and life-giving message worldwide as they team teach “The

Heart of the Father”, “Marriage & Family” and “Health & Nutrition”.

Together Bob & Kelly are the parents of five children and reside in Sarasota, Fl. For more information, videos and resources visit www. freedomquestinternational.org

17

Tastes Of Our Childhood Bringing Back the Traditions of Wholesome Cooking and Eating As told to Nadia M. Perez by Chef Vincenzo Esposito of Vinny and Cheryl’s Italian Kitchen

When you first apback to the Tuscan origins proach Vinny and Cheryl’s which have flavored his Italian Kitchen and step family’s culinary endeavthrough the threshold ors over the years. Add of the entry way you’re a Roman grandmother greeted with the sound and a Neapolitan one and of beautiful Italian classics you almost have the full playing over the radio and effect of Chef Vinny’s inas you walk inside you fluences. It has to be said can’t help but feel like that his latest influence is you’ve returned home. that of his wife Cheryl, a The smell of freshly baked baker and nutritionist, she goods and foods just out is what we can term as a of the oven is overwhelmnatural baker—using only ingly intoxicating, conjurthe most wholesome and ing images of New York organic of ingredients. Still, and New Jersey for those his biggest influences, the of us who grew up in those brightest stars of the famparts and even more so ily cuisine, were his Nonna of Italy itself. You are truly Maria and Nonna Teresa. transported through space Watching them cook, seeand time via your sensing them acquire the freshes but what really takes est and most wholesome you back is biting into a ingredients to create their fresh piece of eggplant Nonna Maria from Napoli, a family photo with his father dressed with a simple yet satisfying dishes parmesan. One bite and mariner suit instilled in him a sense you’ll know exactly what Chef Vinny spent one Friday of all that was good and virtuous in home cooking. afternoon speaking to me about as my mouth watered At Vinny and Cheryl’s Italian Kitchen, their main goal and my mind travelled back in time as he told me his is to encourage people to go back to natural nutrition, story and his vision for us all now in the 21st century. eat less processed foods, less sugars and replace these

Chef Vinny’s influences date back to the 13th century, with whole and organic foods. Their motto is “love, pride that is how far back he can trace his roots, all the way and passion; cook with these”, those are the first three 18

Uncle selling Porchetta (Tuscan style Roasted Pig) this Postcard is from the 1950's

ingredients that first go into each dish prepared by Chef Vinny. He believes that if people were to prepare their foods at home from whole and organic products, take the time to read ingredients lists and savor it all slowly they would start to feel better and more energized. Everything at the Italian Kitchen is prepared fresh daily using only the finest, freshest and healthiest ingredients; no GMOs, additives or artificial ingredients make it past Chef Vinny.

Drawing on what he saw growing up, from his Nonna Teresa acquiring the freshest fruits and vegetables from local farms near Rome and selling them in her stand at the Piazza di Bagnaia to seeing his Nonna Maria gathering fresh and organic vegetables from her large garden, the inspiration for cooking with only the best is plain to see.

Carrying on the legacy of his forbearers, whether it is by cooking with his own granddaughter or by bringing the local community the tastes of his childhood through authentic Italian home cooking, Chef Vinny is determined to do those who influenced him honor by constantly creating foods that evoke family, flavors and moments.

We ought to be experiencing our food, not just eating to survive. Gathering at the table with family, building upon our relationships over good food, these are all the healthy aspects of eating a feast of wholesome goodness. It’s like Chef Vinny’s Zia Antonia used to say, “First you gotta go to church twice a day, second you gotta eat the food that God gave you with a glass of wine.” Zia Antonia lived

Nonna Teresa with baskets of Porcini Mushrooms

to the ripe age of 99 ½ years so, clearly eating the food “God gave us”, the unaltered, unadulterated good food lets us lead strong and healthy lives and THAT is what they are all about at Vinny and Cheryl’s Italian Kitchen.

In the near future, Chef Vinny is planning to take a group of friends to Italy to bring his childhood memories to life for them. An area rich in history, agriculture and the gift of some of the best wines produced from vines dating back to Etruscan times, this place is a culinary dream come true. So, what is Chef Vinny’s advice for the New Year? He hopes we’ll all make the commitment to start the New Year off with good food, wholesome food and to make sure to buy only those foods which have been prepared naturally if we must buy them. What better way to start than giving Vinny and Cheryl’s Italian Kitchen a try if you haven’t already, that is.

Nonna Teresa selling fruits and vegetable in the piazza di Bagnaia provincia di Viterbo Italy 19

e h T n O s r o Va p

Dennis Kedzierski

Sarasota Office: 1815 S. Osprey Ave., Sarasota, FL 34239 Business: (941) 366-7673 Fax: (941) 955-7673

Licensed Realtor GRI

DENBECK2@verizon.net Dennis@Rosebay.com www.RoseBay.com

Direct:

941-685-5514

AVENUE

Electronic Cigarettes & E-Liquids

941-792-6074

Smokers: Are You Ready For A Change?

Our E-Liquids are made in the USA 5706 Manatee Ave. W. Bradenton, FL 34209

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9 41-79 2- 6 074 1330 U.S. Hwy 301 N. Palmetto, FL (next to NAPA in the Hall Building on 301)

EL SOMBRERO MEXICAN RESTAURANT

www.elsombrero941.com

MONDAY MADNESS: $2 MARGARITAS $1 ENCHILADAS

TUESDAY: $1 TACO TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY:

KIDS UNDER 10 EAT FREE

GO TO PURPLEGORILLADEALS.COM TO GET 50% OFF YOUR NEXT VISIT 20

Open 7 Days A Week 11am - 9pm

THURSDAY:

BUFFET $7.99 ALL YOU CAN EAT

FRIDAY - SUNDAY:

HAPPY HOUR 12PM-7PM AND GREAT SPECIALS!

Home of the $2 Margarita 11am-7pm

Reviewed

By

Restaurant Name The Feast Day Visited Nov 15, 2013 Time Visited 6:00 pm

5406 Marina Dr. Holmes Beach, FL (941) 778-5092 www.thefeastrestaurant.com

A special thanks to this issue's TownTasters

Sara & Harlan McGuire

for giving their stamp of approval to The Feast

About our TownTasters:

Age: 28 Hometown: Sarasota, FL. Current City: Jacksonville, FL Hobbies: Cooking and trying new things in the kitchen, travel, service work Favorite Food: Seafood; Asian, including sushi

What did you order?

Starters: Escargots, Seared Ahi Tuna (we also sampled the lobster bisque) Entrees: Mediterranean Scallops, Grouper Oscar Dessert: Key Lime Pie, Chocolate Walnut Brownie with a scoop of Tyler’s vanilla ice cream Kid Friendly Yes No Easy to Find?

Yes No Reservations needed? Yes No Please describe: Lighting Recessed lighting that was dimmed just before we received our starters

You

Favorite aspect of the restaurant It was a quaint place.

Favorite menu item Mediterranean scallops. They were expertly cooked, with a crisp light breading, and the accompanying asparagus and mashed sweet potatoes were quite tasty.

Interesting menu items Bouillabaisse was an entree special that evening.

Would you go back? Yes. It’s a distance from Sarasota, but a lovely drive if you opt to take Gulf of Mexico Drive along the water.

Would you recommend?

Absolutely!

Comments: The Feast offered a wide variety of Ambiance beer and wine. We were happy to Simple, with numerous seascape pieces see the restaurant progressively get of artwork on the walls busier and remain full throughout the evening.

Atmosphere Casual and friendly Service Excellent! Our server Shannon was friendly, knowledgable about the menu and made our experience very pleasant.

VED APPRO

Each month, our TownTaster reviews are completed by loyal readers who want a chance to share their dining experiences.

If you would like a chance to be chosen as a TownTaster and enjoy a dinner for two - register on our website TownTaster.com 22

Hunsader Farms 5500 CR 675, Bradenton, FL 34211 www.hunsaderfarms.com

Farm Market: 941-322-2168

Homegrown

Fruits & Vegetables Available Daily

Now AvAiLABLe

U-Pick Strawberries, Mustard Greens, Collard Greens, Lettuce, Kohlrabi, Cabbage, Broccoli and Cauliflower

U-pick Hotline:

941-331-1212 Daily Updates for current picking Birthday Parties • Playground • Petting Zoo

Eat Fresh.

Eat Local.

For so many reasons the strawberry is the perfect fruit for the season.

Reaching it’s peak ripeness around this time, the strawberry is a symbol of both health and love! A symbol of health that we resolve to keep this New Year and is beautiful in a shape like a heart which represents the love we share with our loved ones on Valentine’s Day! So, head on over to Hunsader Farms and O’Brein Family Farms to satisfy your craving for the area’s finest strawberries. Available for U-Pick with your sweetheart or ready to grab and go – you know you will be Eating Fresh & Eating Local with these red beauties!

Come See Our Live Bee Observatory

23

VIP Ticket Holders 12:30 - 3pm General Admission 1:00pm - 3pm

• •

Adult ticket $20 in advance $25 at the door Children 10 and under $10 in advance and at the door (Valid with adult VIP or Adult General Admission

•

VIP ticket $30 - Special VIP entrance opens 30 minutes prior to general ticket holders

Ticket) Children under 5 are free (advanced sales only)