Blog - Proud Italian Cook

Hotdogs, Tamales, Italian Beef and a Wedding!!!!

May 11, 2008 by Marie 25 Comments

Over the last few days we have had relatives from Florida staying with us to attend a family wedding, so I haven’t had much time for blogging and visiting my favorite blogs. Don’t worry, I’ll be back to normal shortly! I just wanted to share with you some of their favorite foods they crave when they come to Chicago.
One of their traditions is Portillo’s Italian beef, always consistent! perfectly spiced! Never a disappointment!

A tamale from Portillo’s. Yes, these are not traditional tamales you make wrapped up in corn husks, but there’s something about the taste of these steamed goodies!!

And of course who can resist a Chicago style hotdog? Nobody in my family can!!!

And last but not least, I wanted to share with you a picture of my precious Granddaughter who was the flower girl at the wedding.
I know I’m a little biased but isn’t she beautiful? 🙂

Can’t wait to see what all of you have been up to!

Talk to you soon,

Marie

25 Comments Filed Under: Chicago Tagged: chicago beef, chicago hotdogs, Flower girl, portillos, tamales

ROSEMARY LEMONADE (SPIKED!!)

May 5, 2008 by Marie 38 Comments

Nothing screams summer-time more to me than a nice cold glass of lemonade! It’s refreshing and it really quenches your thirst on a hot afternoon. Now, add a savory and subtle kick of rosemary, and you have a fantastic twist on this traditional drink!
We all know how good lemon and rosemary pair together in cooking, but who knew it would be just as good in a drink? So, if you like these two flavor combinations, please give this a try, one sip and you’ll be smitten!!!

But now wait! theres more! by simply adding one shot of Limoncello to this tasty lemonade you’ve now created a crisp and delicious summer cocktail fit for any special occasion, or a special treat just for yourself. 😀

You’ll need a cocktail shaker to combine the juice of 1 lemon, 4 TBL. of sugar (or less), a pinch of rosemary leaves, some ice cubes, and enough cold water to fill. If using Limoncello, pour one shot into the shaker also. Shake well and pour into a tall glass lined with thin slices of lemons.

Garnish with a fresh sprig of rosemary, and a thick slice of lemon. Serve immediately!

MAKES 1

Cin Cin!!

38 Comments Filed Under: Drinks Tagged: aperitvo, cocktail, limoncello drink, rosemary lemonade, spiked lemonade, summer cocktail

PASTA SALADS!

April 29, 2008 by Marie 38 Comments

ORZO WITH GRILLED SHRIMP AND FETA

INGREDIENTS

Grilled shrimp (marinate the shrimp in lemon peel, lemon juice, olive oil, crushed garlic, then grill)

Cooked orzo pasta

Diced and seeded English cucumber

Diced red onion

Crumbled feta

Fresh lemon and lemon peel

Mint, parsley, a little oregano

Make a vinaigrette by whisking olive oil, fresh squeezed lemon juice, a little crumbled feta, salt and pepper,and white wine vinegar, and a crushed garlic clove. Taste it to your liking either adding more or less.
Place all ingredients in a bowl, adding all the herbs, more feta, (make sure it’s in small crumbles)pour your vinaigrette over all the ingredients, taste it and make sure you have enough of everything! Adjust it to your liking.