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Be still my pounding heart! I found the perfect gourmet popcorn thanks to Pop! Gourmet Popcorn. For someone who loves the pairing of sweet and salty here is a great combo; are you ready for this.... Chocolate Salted Caramel Popcorn made with hand-crafted caramel popcorn topped with rich milk chocolate and sprinkled with delicate gourmet sea salt. Yes please! And dare I say...
Let's face it--sometimes we just don't have the time to spend in the kitchen whipping up a gourmet meal for a special rendezvous for two. And that's OK, it happens to the best of us. So let's examine the alternatives for still being able to enjoy a romantic evening together...from the most obvious--eating out to the oh-so-easy task of ordering take-out. But there is another option - having a speci
While I love baby arugula and mixed green salads and all the different types of salads you can create using these soft greens, there is something about a romaine salad that is more filling and robust, not to mention its great "crunch". This salad is a wonderful side dish to a grilled steak or pork chops. Romaine Crunchy SaladIngredients: 1 head of Romaine Lettuce, bottom chopped off1 app
While I love baby arugula and mixed green salads and all the different types of salads you can create using these soft greens, there is something about a romaine salad that is more filling and robust, not to mention its great "crunch". For a chopped romaine salad you could add a mix of whatever you have on hand such as: sliced endive or celery, apples, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, walnuts or p
Spring time was in the air while shopping at the farmers market this weekend. Finally sunshine and blue skies. Daffodils, Narcissus, and Hyacinths. And luscious spring vegetables like ramps, asparagus, baby artichokes and fresh peas. So to celebrate I happily picked up two dozen Narcissus flowers-pale yellow with bright orange centers that put a smile on your face; they look so lovely.
On this Meatless Monday here is something for seafood lovers, a very easy recipe with a seductive blend of flavors: Butterflied trout with currants, capers and pine nuts. I LOVE this dish--it is light meal that is sure to please and a very good choice for a "quickie" -- a fast dish that is impressive for a romantic meal for two. But first, a note about capers. Capers taste especial
by MK BurnellJust to put the final cherry on top of our month Italian appreciation, here's a collection of sweet treats to finish off your multi-course masterpiece of Italian cooking. After putting away appetizers, contorni, and a generously sized entree or pasta dish, you might think you won't have room for dessert... but come on. There's always room for dessert.ZABAGLIONEA white chocolate parfai
It was hard to separate ourselves from the coast and head back north. We had planned to spend our last four nights in Florence to break up the trip home. In the days before our train, we started checking the weather compulsively, praying that it wouldn't be cold already in Florence, that the sun might last a bit longer...We lucked out and had beautiful weather. Our last days in Italy w
by MK BurnellWe tend to think of side dishes as an optional, if-you-have-time or special-occasions-only part of a meal. But in Italian cuisine, where every meal is a special occasion, skipping the contorni is like skipping dessert - unthinkable! Contorni are usually a fresh vegetable, prepared simply and elegantly to bring out the fullness of the flavor. Feel free to experiment with in-season loca
by MK BurnellThe stunning natural beauty of the island of Capri has captured the hearts of its visitors for hundreds of years. It's been a resort for the wealthy and powerful since the time of the Roman Republic, when emperors and members of the nobility lived and lounged on the island. But you don't have to be rich or famous to appreciate the enchantment of Capri.Since Capri is only accessible by
I just LOVE cheese ravioli so when a friend invited me over for a ravioli dinner I happily accepted. She asked that I bring over some Parmesan cheese which turned out to be a good thing as I wanted to test my new Savora Rotary Cheese Grater. I've experienced the sexy efficiency of rotary graters at Italian restaurants and always wanted this cool gadget for myself. And after tes
To really enjoy childless travel, we needed to visit somewhere that is incredibly crowded during the high season but likely to be deserted in the off season. The Amalfi Coast fit the bill perfectly. We left Naples by car and after a stop over in Sorrento and a visit to the ruins of Pompei, we were on our own, zig zagging along a narrow coastal road along an area widely considered Europ
by MK BurnellIf you can't swing a Mediterranean vacation just now, the next best thing is a home-cooked Italian dinner. With a glass of Chianti in hand and a pot of from-scratch tomato sauce simmering away on the stove, you'll be feeling like a paesano in no time. Start out with an irresistible appetizer, and don't be afraid to cook up a pasta dish; they don't shy away from generous portions
In Bologna we had our sun, but we didn't quite have our warmth. For that we would keep heading south. Italy has a new high speed train network, and getting around the country was surprisingly easy. We walked from our hotel to the train station, and then were whisked away at almost 190 mph towards the south. In a few hours, we were in Naples and at last taking off our winter
by MK BurnellIn case you didn't notice, we've caught Italian Fever here at Seduction Meals! We're bringing you notes from abroad courtesy of our friends Anna and Paul, as well as recipes and articles to bring the Tuscan sunshine beaming right into your computer room. Whether you stay in the finest hotels or backpack from hostel to hostel, a trip across Italy with someone you love is an unforg
Besides the sun, choosing Italy as a destination was mostly about food. So when we bought the guide book and saw that it referred to Bologna as, "The culinary capital of Italy", and "la grassa," ("the fat one"), we knew where our trip would begin. This stop was all about pasta, and lots of it.And yet, we screwed up. As the church bells rang early on our first morning, we realized we ha
by MK BurnellAs everyone knows, pasta is a staple of Italian cooking. We've pulled four of our favorite pasta recipes from the Seduction Meals archives - try them all to experience the versatility of this classic comfort food. Whether you're using fresh or dried pasta, cook with love and you'll have a true homestyle Italian meal to share and enjoy.Calamari Fra DiabloA fiery seafood dish serv
This article is the first of our series: The Last Hurrah of the Childless Travelers - where a young couple journey to Italy just months before the birth of their first child. Realizing this will be their last expression of personal freedom, exploration and a relatively carefree experience (before the impending joy of parental responsibility) they're intent upon maximizing this last hurrah to the f
by MK BurnellThe flavors and colors of Italian cooking are one of our favorite sources of inspiration. We love exploring different ways to combine simple, classic ingredients like tomato, cheese, and vegetables. With that in mind, we've collected three of our favorite appetizers, entrees and desserts to help you create an amazing Italian seduction meal of your own. Choose the freshest ingredients
by MK BurnellIt's a well known fact among those who have spent time getting to know Italy that all gelato is not created equal. Certainly there's no shortage of gelaterias; but less common are those artisan shops that take pride in crafting a truly exceptional confection. At its worst, gelato is still pretty tasty; but at its best, it's a smooth, creamy, gourmet dessert that can combine the most u
by MK BurnellFrom the sun-baked coast of Amalfi, to the sweeping hillsides of Tuscany's wine country, to the piazzas and red rooftops of Bologna, Italy is one of the most extraordinary destinations in the world. Everything about the country calls to the romantic soul of the adventurer. The countryside, the language, the world-renowned cuisine, the warm and inviting culture; it's all irresistibly s
Tired of the traditional St. Patrick's Day whiskey? The bright colors and refreshing flavors of LeSutra sparkling liqueur make a delicious and festive cocktail.Lucky LeSUTRA3oz LeSUTRA Blueberry Sparkling Liqueur3oz LeSUTRA Peach Sparkling LiqueurHalf Fresh Squeezed LimeMuddled MintMix all ingredients together, Garnish with a mint leaf and loose blueberries. Served over rocks in a highball glass
Get your shamrock on this St. Patrick's Day and get lucky at the same time with this luscious cocktail from TY KU - the POT OF GOLD!Pot of Gold 2 oz TY KU Coconut Sake2 oz Pineapple juiceMuddled mint and fresh pineapple chunks Mix all ingredients together, serve over ice
A simple side dish with a robust flavor; perfect to serve with beef, pork or chicken dishes. Horseradish Whipped PotatoesIngredients:1.5 lb yukon gold potatoes, peeled and quartered1 tsp salt1/2 stick of butter, unsalted sweet butter2 heaping teaspoons of prepared horseradish2 tablespoons of chives, chopped1/2 cup of plain yogurt1/2 cup of half and halfheaping teaspoon of garlic pureeDirectio
Everyone I know is always looking for ways to enhance the simplicity of a bowl of steamed or roasted brussel sprouts. This recipe answers that call brilliantly. Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Cranraisin in a Balsamic glaze. Both the brussel sprout prep and the balsamic glaze can be made ahead of time. For the sprouts, place all ingredients in a large sealed container until ready to roast. I L
We love interactive kitchen experiences, where everyone can participate, and making pizze together is a blast. Chop, slice, grate and pour various ingredients into small bowls and let people create their favorite pizza choosing from an array of toppings. Our pizza night included: (1) a Margharita Pizza (tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil; (2) Artichoke pizza wi
Ah, the sweet smell of cinnamon in the morning! Depending on how many people you need to feed, this recipe can be scaled up or down fit any size casserole pan. Serve with maple syrup, your favorite coffee or tea, and a side of sausage. Who doesn't love the mix of sausage and maple syrup! Cinnamon French Toast BakeServes 6-8Ingredients: 1 1/2 loaves of fresh raisin bread, sour dough bread
by MK BurnellHere's a treat for our West Coast readers. We're always on the lookout for enticing new venues and recipes that showcase the seductive potential of seafood - so imagine our delight when we learned about San Diego's sustainable sushi hotspot, Harney Sushi! Just like us, Harney Sushi takes their aphrodisiacs seriously. They know that just a splash of sake, a pinch of wasabi and a b
I was visiting my family in Dallas and was steered in the direction to check out their local gourmet food market, EatZI's - an amazing spot for foodies. That is where I discovered these ready-made tamales which they were giving out as samples. DELISH! I LOVE tamales and decided right then and there, I had to make these for breakfast. I bought the Pork tamales. All you have to do is boil the tamale
by MK BurnellWe're not quite over that Valentine's Day buzz, and we're betting you aren't, either. So why not join us in a Seduction Meals tradition: February 15th breakfast in bed?It's up to you whether the first one awake does the preparation, or one of you makes the coffee while the other cooks the food. Any way you do it, it's pure luxury to slip back under the sheets, cozy up to your sweethea
by MK BurnellHappy Valentine's Day, lovers!In our article A Late Winter's Date in NYC, we told you all about West Village sensation Barraca. Now, as a special treat to cap off our Rhapsody in Red celebration, meet the talented master chef who creates the magic. Chef Jesús Nuñez, master of combining exquisite flavor with artistic presentation, was kind enough to grant us a Valentine's Q&A.
by MK BurnellSo many people, especially in the States, tend to think of Valentine's Day as a 'commercial' holiday. Sure, it's meant to be a day to celebrate the love in your life, but in practice, isn't it just an excuse to sell greeting cards, flowers, chocolates and dinner reservations? That's the cynical attitude, but here at Seduction Meals, we treat February 14th as the rhapsody in red i
by MK BurnellSometimes the best gift you can give to the one you love is an escape from the stress and tedium of everyday life. While you're racing to keep on top of all your responsibilities, it's easy to forget to make time to keep your romantic connection strong. A weekend getaway at a small, intimate bed & breakfast is a great way to unwind and get back in sync with each other. And when yo
by MK BurnellThere's just one more step in our mix-and-match Valentine's Day Seduction Meal series: the dessert course. Once you've picked out an aphrodisiac appetizer, tantalizing soup or salad, and mouthwatering entree, it's important to choose a dessert that will finish off the meal by complementing, not overpowering, the flavor palate you've established. We've assembled five fruit-sweetened tr
by MK BurnellWith the 14th just a few more days away, we're serving up another playlist of sexy, seductive tunes about love, lovers and sweet, sweet loving. It's a premium blend of classic and contemporary with plenty of heart and soul. Take a listen, add a few of your favorites and get your personal playlist ready for romance. And for more inspiration, check out our previous Valentine's playlist
by MK BurnellWe're fascinated by the art of the love letter. Ever since we started coming across these intimate pieces of romantic history, we've felt compelled to share them with the world. So to celebrate our Valentine's Day Rhapsody in Red, here's one more installment in our series of love letters from famous figures throughout the ages. Don't forget to check out part one and part two.Thes
It's no secret that we love our chocolate here at Seduction Meals. So whenever we get an opportunity to provide you with a chance to win some dark, creamy gourmet goodness, we jump right on it. (Don't mention it, really.) If you've never experienced Chuao Chocalatier, now is the time to find out what you've been missing. For a whole year, Chuao will supply one lucky winner with chocolate
by MK BurnellWho says seduction has to be serious? After all, laughter releases those feel-good endorphins that help to get you relaxed, happy and ready for anything. To that end, we've collected some of our very favorite couples' games - some sexy, some silly, some enlightening - to get you talking, laughing and loving. Strip ChocolateDoes your lover usually like to keep things vanilla? Enco
by MK BurnellNow that you've picked out your appetizer and your soup or salad course for your red-hot Valentine's dinner, it's time to take a look at a few entree options. Whether you prefer steak, seafood, poultry or vegetarian, we've got you covered - four fabulous dishes, each with an aphrodisiac twist (naturally). It's all part of our mix and match Rhapsody in Red."Restaurant Style"
by MK BurnellFor the past several Valentine's Days, we've gotten into the habit of pointing you towards the most luscious and luxurious artisan chocolates on the market, and we see no reason to stop now. In keeping with our Rhapsody in Red theme, here are some exotically flavored handcrafted chocolates to ignite flames of passion.Vosges Crush TrufflesWhat could be more perfect than aphrodisiac-the
by MK BurnellThe music you choose can make or break a romantic evening. This Valentine's Day, we're putting together some playlists made up of the best mood music from classic to contemporary eras. Sexy, slinky tunes about love, sweet love - press play and watch the sparks fly. <A HREF="http://ws.amazon.com/widgets/q?rt=tf_w_mpw&ServiceVersion=200708
by MK BurnellIt's a good thing we've got Valentine's Day to brighten up February, because this can be a tough month to ride out. It's easy to come down with some serious cabin fever while you're waiting for the snow to melt and the sunshine to return. But with the most romantic day of the year just around the corner, this is no time to hibernate - so we wracked our brains to come up with the sweet
by MK BurnellFor our Valentine's Day Rhapsody in Red, we want to give you plenty of ways to wow your lover. Impress them with a home-cooked four-course meal - choose a soup or salad, mix and match with one of our spicy seafood appetizers, and you're on your way to a dinner to remember. Stay tuned for entrees and desserts!Spicy Roasted Corn and Poblano SoupThe seduction of fiery poblano peppe
by MK BurnellWhat to give your guy on Valentine's Day? Something sweet, something sultry, something a tad suggestive... or all of the above. It's the thought that counts, and since February 14th is for lovers, why not make that thought a little dirty?Dirty Martini Gift PackA chic red or chrome shaker and martini glasses of your choice, with a naughty little book included. Perfect for Valentine's D
by MK BurnellReading a love letter is like getting a voyeuristic glimpse into the most secret recesses of the writer's heart. It's even more fascinating when the writer is a famous figure from history - knowing their work inside and out is one thing, but to read their most intimate personal thoughts is irresistibly intriguing.As part of our Valentine's Day Rhapsody in Red, we're bringing you the m
by MK BurnellA Valentine's Day gift exchange should stay simple, romantic, and elegant. Chocolate and flowers are the standard, of course, but you'll score bonus points with your partner by going above and beyond the call of duty. We've collected five sweet and sexy "for her" gift ideas to inspire you.Philosophy Love Sweet Love CollectionPhilosophy, purveyors of chic and aromatic lotions, perfumes
This year, Seduction Meals threw an old fashioned Twelve Days of Christmas celebration. We brought you along on a voyeuristic journey into the lives of Remy and Sage, a young Brooklynite couple celebrating their first Christmas season together. They treated each other to lavish gifts, magical dates, and seductive food, culminating in a romantic proposal. Now, we want to thank you for being a
by MK BurnellDining with a loved one is an experience to be savored. At Chef Daniel Humm's NYC establishment Eleven Madison Park, that philosophy is taken to its most extravagant conclusion.EMP's multi-course tasting menu is presented to guests over what can easily be a four-hour meal. Each dish is tailored to the preference of the diner, handcrafted from the choicest fresh ingredients and sc
by MK BurnellAs part of our Valentine's Day Rhapsody in Red, we're providing you with a mix-and-match menu of seductive courses that are certain to light your fire. Let's start things off with a look at a few appetizers that combine the aphrodisiac qualities of seafood and spicy flavor.1. Seared Spicy Garlic ShrimpQuick, easy and satisfying, this popular app combines the seduction of seafood with
