4 PM FIX : BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND, WHITE BEAN AND SHRIMP STEW

Ciao'd while watching a dozen robins on the lawn. 

Garlicky Shrimp with White Beans and Sausage was one of the first recipes I posted when I started my blog six months ago. It remains one of the most popular and most requested recipes to date. Redolent with a riot of complementary flavors - garlic, smoked paprika, and tomatoes to name a few - the stew is a family and friend favorite no matter what time of year you serve it.

So why not a throwback to this comforting dish during the cold winter season? Those of you who just joined the Ciao Donata party may have missed the recipe, so it's new for you. I think you'll like it. And did I mention, it's SUPER easy and quick to prepare? Indulge here.

MARCELLA MONDAY (CHANNELING THE GREAT MARCELLA HAZAN)

I never had the pleasure-slash-privilege of meeting Marcella Hazan, yet I can attest to her companionship in my kitchen for 25-plus years.  I came upon her first cookbook, The Classic Italian Cookbook, when I was living in Spain, of all places, and interning at an Italian restaurant, of all places.  I spent a lot of time at Alambique in Madrid, the cooking school and cookware store owned by my friend, Clara Maria Amezua de Llamas. One day I was helping unpack a shipment of books, and the cookbook revealed itself in all its Italian glory.  And it was written in English! READ MORE...

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FESTIVE GOAT CHEESE LOGS TWO WAYS

Cheese balls are great. I love the nostalgia. But cheese logs are even better. Here's why:  It's super easy to find unembellished goat cheese logs at the market. Naked cheese balls not so much. Here are two ideas for dressing those goat cheese logs with holiday (or any day) flavors - and hues. Make ahead and freeze. Ferry to a potluck. Enjoy while watching football. I know, right? Heaven sent. Click READ MORE for the recipe. Delish!

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