Antipasto Salad

Antipasto Salad

Served as a first course before gnocchi in tomato cream sauce. A variety of bottled dressings were offered for individual use.

red leaf lettuce
iceberg lettuce
cucumber, peeled and sliced lengthwise
radish, sliced
ripe Kalamata olives
feta cheese, crumbled
green onions, sliced on the diagonal

The platter was chilled before assembling. Tear the lettuces into bite-size pieces. Arrange the other ingredients on top of the bed of lettuce as suggested in the photo.

Quick and Easy Pinto Beans and Rice

Devised and first prepared May 27, 2012.

3/4 c medium-grain Mexican rice
1 t salt
3/4 c water
1 20-oz can charro beans (La Costeña™ is good)
3 T olive oil, divided

In a tall microwavable container add the rice, salt, and 1 T of oil. Mix, cover loosely, and heat on high (1250W) for 1 minute. Add the water and the entire can of beans. Stir to combine, cover, and microwave on high until mixtures boils and most water is absorbed, about 10 minutes. Stir, cook loosely covered on #3 power for 15 minutes. Drizzle on the remaining olive oil and gently combine. Serves 6.

Cuban Sandwich

Recorded May 21, 2012.

sliced baked ham
sliced garlicky roast pork
sliced dill pickles
provolone, Swiss, or cheddar cheese
yellow mustard
softened butter
crusty French or Cuban bread

Cuban Sandwich Ingredients

Slice loaf lengthwise. Spread mustard on both inside surfaces. Layer ham, roast pork, cheese, and pickle slices on bottom and cover with top. Press down firmly and spread butter on the outside. Grill under a heavy cover or in a panini press until toasty and cheese has melted. Slice diagonally into sections for serving.

Hint: Making Perfect Gravy from a Mix

Recorded May 9, 2012. Perfected over many trials.

1 package gravy mix, any variety (to make 1 to 1-1/4 c gravy)
water according to package directions

Measure the required amount of water into a plastic measuring cup. Pour about 1 oz (30 ml) of this water into a tall 20 oz (300 ml) plastic container. Layer the gravy mix on top of the water, letting it become moistened, and then stir until smooth. Now, heat the remaining water in the microwave, add to the gravy mix, and whisk until smooth. Microwave about 90 seconds more, in short intervals, stopping to stir when gravy threatens to bubble over.