
A few weeks ago, I raved about a new Italian cookbook called
A16 Food + Wine that has a delicious (and unique)
meatball recipe. Well, I'm still learning great things from it. This week, I made a
panzanella with tuna and capers, another item on the menu at the
launch party.

A delightful alternative to the classic caprese salad, these skewers are bite-sized pieces of heaven. The recipe couldn't be easier, and the simplicity highlights the pure flavor of ripe tomatoes and fresh cheese. To make these easy appetizers, I tossed pieces of bocconcini, or mozzarella balls, with homemade pesto.

This week's so packed to the brim with festivals nationwide, you couldn't avoid one if you tried. There are food and wine classics all across the East Coast, and here in the West, we're planning on dropping by the
chocolate festival in our neck of the woods. If we've left anything out, please chime in below.

As much as I love complex cooking techniques and innovative recipes, sometimes I crave a pure, simple, delicious meal. A dish with no frills or exotic ingredients. A dish like this comforting bread and tomato soup.

The other day I saw a bag of Yukon gold potatoes sitting on the counter at my parents house. Since potatoes weren't on that night's dinner menu, I knew I could use them to make a delicious and easy appetizer. Inspired by a
crisp potato recipe from the latest Everyday Food magazine, I decided to make these nachos with blue cheese, green onions, and grape tomatoes.