Holiday Appetizer -Greek Meatballs ~ Keftethes

Keftethes

These Greek style meatballs are made with lightly seasoned ground beef and a hint of mint. They are full of flavor and irresistible. Greek Chic It: For Greek-style spaghetti and meatballs, this is my mom’s favorite version. Toss keftethes into your favorite marinara sauce.

Serves: 8

Ingredients
1 pound lean, finely ground beef or veal
1 cup yellow onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, chopped
⅓ cup bread crumbs
2 eggs, beaten
3 ½ tablespoons fresh or dried mint
1 tablespoon dried parsley
¼ cup light Greek olive oil
¼ cup flour
salt and pepper to taste

Method

1. In a bowl, mix ground beef with onion, garlic, bread crumbs, mint, and parsley.
2. Season well with salt and pepper.
3. Mix ingredients well with hands. Add the beaten egg to bind the mixture together.
4. With damp hands, roll the meat mixture into small balls. In a separate dish, roll
meatballs into flour. Reroll to keep the form if necessary.
5. Add olive oil to a sauté pan. When oil is ready, place a few meatballs at a time into
the pan. Lightly brown on all sides until fully cooked on the inside.
6. Optional: partially cook meatballs by browning them in the pan, then place them
in the broiler and cook under medium heat for 10 to 15 more minutes, turning
frequently.
7. For dipping sauce, serve with tzatziki topping.

Let the baking begin...butter cookie recipe - Kourambiethes

Baking for Christmas starts with cookies. Just saw on the Today Show, Martha Stewart making some unique cookies to add to your holiday baking. My favorite unique Greek cookie is Kourambiethes. The are buttery and easy to make for Christmas. Athena & Eleni, my daughters, love these snow capped with powdered sugar round cookies every holiday. Santa gets this cookie on his plate and leaves a trail of powdered sugar..since we know Santa likes Greek cooking.

Merry Christmas and happy baking for the holidays!!!
www.greekchiccuisine.com
www.grecianoil.com

RECIPE
KourambiethesThis is the ultimate wedding cookie that melts in your mouth. It’s an easy-to-make, buttery
cookie beautifully decorated with powdered sugar and is great for special occasions.
Yield: 50–60
Ingredients
1 pound unsalted butter, softened
½ cup powdered sugar
2 egg yokes
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 ounce whiskey
2 teaspoons almond extract
4 cups of flour (may not need all)
6 cups of powder sugar, sifted
60 baking cups
Method
1. In a mixer, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy Add egg yolks, almond
extract, and whiskey to the butter mixture.
2. Mix flour and baking powder, then add flour little-by-little to make soft dough
- a little greasier than dry consistency. It feels like play dough. Form a small,
smooth ball and lightly pinch with three fingers on top. Place on a cookie sheet.
Optional: shape dough into crescents or S-shaped cookies.
3. Bake in a preheated oven at 350° F for 20 to 25 minutes or until light brown in
color. Let cool.
4. Line table with wax paper and lightly sift powdered sugar over it. Place cookies on
top of the powdered sugar. Continue to sift powdered sugar over cookies until
they are completely covered with a mountain of sugar. Place in baking cups.
Greek Chic It: Cut kourambiethes cookie dough into hearts or stars with a cookie
cutter instead of balls for holidays or special occasions.

Easy Spice Cake for Fall with hot chocolate

Walnut Spice Cake - Karithopita

Karithopita or Walnut Spice cake is great dessert comfort food as the weather gets a bit cooler. All the ingredients and complex flavors of more difficult to make Greek desserts, this light walnut cake baked with hints of cinnamon spice flavors is quick and easy to make. Great any time of the day, this simple cake is sure to please your family. A warm piece of Karithopita is a wonderful addition to a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Walnut Spice Cake - Karithopita

Serves: 24

Ingredients

1 ½ cups sugar
1 cup vegetable oil
3 eggs
1 tablespoon whiskey
2 cups flour
3 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
1 cup milk
1 teaspoon cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground cloves
1 ½ cups walnuts, finely chopped
24 baking cups

Syrup Topping Ingredients

½ cup honey
½ cup water
1 cup walnuts, finely chopped

Method

1. In an electric mixer, cream sugar and eggs one at a time until light and fluffy.
Slowly add oil, milk, and whiskey.
2. In a separate bowl, mix dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, baking soda,
cinnamon, cloves and walnuts. Mix well. Fold into creamed mixture until blended
well.
3. Pour into a greased oven dish, 13 x 9 x 2 inches. Bake in an oven at 350° F for 20 to
25 minutes or until cooked when tested.
4. In a saucepan over medium heat, boil honey and water. Then pour warm syrup
over cooled cake. Use enough syrup to saturate the cake. There may be some
remaining syrup.
5. When cake is cold, cut into diamond shapes and sprinkle with finely chopped
walnuts. Place each decorated cake into a baking cup and place on serving tray.

Greek Chic It: Serve with whipped cream in the center and cinnamon as a garnish. For Christmas, use red and green candied cherries on top.

Recipe courtesy of Greek Chic Cuisine Cookbook by Stephanie M. Patsalis. http://www.greekchiccuisine.com/ Now available at iBookstore.

Baklava Phyllo Brie

It's fall and this appetizer recipe reminds me of the season. Enjoy Baklava Phyllo Brie recipe, which takes minutes to make. Easy to bring to football parties on the weekends or when entertaining guests.
This traditional favorite has a Greek Chic twist with it's sweet and savory flavor. The brie is topped with nuts, cinnamon and honey and wrapped in phyllo dough.
When teaching cooking classes, I usually hear that phyllo is something people are not sure about trying. Phyllo is easy. If you make a mistake, butter over it. Don't want to mess with phyllo, then replace it with Pillsbury Crescent rolls.
*See other brie recipes below with Fig Preserve.

Enjoy!

Baklava Phyllo Brie
Serves: 4–6
Ingredients
1 – 8 ounce wheel of brie
4 sheets phyllo, thawed
2 tablespoons butter, melted
2–3 tablespoons honey
¼ cup walnuts, finely chopped
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground cloves
¼ teaspoon granulated sugar
Method
1. Mix walnuts, cinnamon, cloves, and sugar in a bowl. Set aside.
2. Take each phyllo sheet and brush with melted butter. Stack each one on top of the
other in a slightly crisscrossed manner. Keep the unused phyllo covered with a cloth.
3. Place brie cheese in the center of the filo. Spread honey over the cheese and then
sprinkle the walnut mixture on top. Drizzle more honey over walnuts.
4. Wrap the buttered phyllo around the brie by gathering it around the top of cheese.
Cinch it to make a purse.
5. The phyllo should be fanned out on top. Trim if necessary.
6. Bake brie on a cookie sheet at 350° F for 8 to 12 minutes or until golden brown. Let
stand for 10 minutes.
7. Serve with grapes, sliced apples, gourmet crackers, or pita bread.

Greek Chic It: Brie with Fig Preserves
1. Replace honey with 1–2 tablespoons store-bought fig preserves. Follow above
recipe for filo.
2. Instead of honey, spread the fig preserves over the brie and sprinkle chopped
walnuts on top and complete according to above directions for wrapping with filo
and baking.

Brie with Raspberry Preserves
1. Follow above recipe for phyllo.
2. Simple spread 1–2 tablespoons store bought raspberry preserves over

@Whole Foods Greek Brunch Ideas from Greek Chic

Greek Chic Cusine
Whole Foods this Week -Cooking Greek Chic Brunch Ideas like...Athenian Frittatas, Baklava Waffles and Santorini Sunrise Greek Yogurt...
Thursday, September 22 at 6 PM
www.wholefoods.com

Whole Foods Market: Natural and Organic Grocery
www.wholefoodsmarket.com
Whole Foods Market is the world's largest retailer of natural and organic foods, with stores throughout North America and the United Kingdom

Cooking at Whole Foods -Greek Chic Brunch Ideas

Whole Foods this Week -Cooking Greek Chic Brunch Ideas like...Athenian Frittatas, Baklava Waffles and Santorini Sunrise Greek Yogurt...
Thursday, September 22 at 6 PM
www.wholefoods.com

Greek Yogurt Dips ~ Pesto Yogurt Dip and Kalamata Spread

After a few weeks of vacationing, I enjoyed my time off to explore various culinary scenes. Being a foodie, it's hard not to always think of food and new recipes. I found so much inspiration with new recipes to share in next upcoming blogs.

End of summer is coming, but keep entertaining with some cool refreshing appetizers. This is an easy appetizer that I eat as an appetizer before making our dinner. It's a great appetizer. Greek Yogurt Dips - Kalamata Spread and Pesto Dip.

With the ever popular, Greek Yogurt (FAGE being my favorite) advertised as the thickest and healthiest, I have found that it's not just for breakfast. Replace your sour cream with Greek FAGE yogurt with any recipe and start eating the Mediterranean Diet way.


Greek Yogurt Dips ~ Enjoy these easy to make in 10 minutes dips for your next party. They are light and refreshing for summer entertaining. Also, great sandwich spreads to add flavor.

KALAMATA Spread

Ingredients

1 cup FAGE yogurt
2 tablespoon Kalamata Olive Tapenade or finely chopped Kalamata Olives
Pita Chips

Method

1. In a bowl, mix FAGE Greek yogurt and Kalamata Olives or Tapenade. Mix well and place in a decorative bowl. Garnish with a whole Kalamata olive and serve with pita chips.

Pesto Yogurt Dip

Ingredients

1 cup FAGE yogurt
2 tablespoon pesto sauce
Pita Chips

Method

1. In a bowl, mix FAGE Greek yogurt and pesto sauce. Mix well and place in a decorative bowl. Garnish with a sprig of basil leaves and serve with pita chips.

Gyro Lettuce Wraps and Tzatziki

Gyros or Gyros Lettuce Wraps

These are known as a popular Greek fast food item. The term is pronounced “yee-ros,”
which translates to “round.” This pita bread sandwich is stacked high with marinated meat, tomatoes, onions, and the secret special sauce - Tzatziki. Greek Chic It and cut the carbohydrates by making a Gyro Lettuce Wrap (recipe variation below).

Serves: 4

Ingredients
4 (4 ounce) chicken breasts or 12 ounces steak
3 tomatoes, sliced
¼ red onion, chopped
1 cup tzatziki topping sauce (See recipe below)
4 pieces pita bread, heated or grilled
Oregano Lemon Marinade
3/4 cup Greek extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon oregano
2 tablespoons lemon juice
salt and pepper to taste

Method
1. In a bowl, make marinade by whisking olive oil, oregano, lemon juice, salt, and
pepper. Place meat in marinade until grilling.
2. Prepare tzatziki topping sauce.
3. Dice tomatoes and chopped onions. Set aside.
4. Cook marinated chicken or steak on outdoor grill or non-stick grill pan on
medium heat until fully cooked and the inside temperature is 160° F. Slice into
strips and set aside.
5. Brush pita bread with olive oil and lightly brown on a grill or warm in an oven.
6. Take each piece of heated or grilled pita bread, top with some grilled chicken or
steak, tomatoes, and onions, and then add a dollop of tzatziki topping sauce.

Greek Chic It: Gyro Lettuce Wrap
1. Make a Greek lettuce wrap by replacing the pita bread with a large romaine
lettuce leaf.
2. Follow above cooking directions. Place chicken, tomato, lettuce, onions, and
tzatziki sauce in romaine lettuce leaf. Serve on a large serving platter.

Tzatziki Topping
This simple and delicious tzatziki topping is from a family that knows how to cook
exceptional Greek food. Keep this one on hand to be used as a topping, condiment, or
sandwich spread. These few ingredients release big, authentic flavor.
Serves: 4–6
Ingredients
1 cup sour cream
1 cup Greek yogurt, plain
1 cucumber, grated with skin
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
½ teaspoon salt

Method
1. Grate the cucumber using the large holes on a cheese grater. Extract the seeds.
2. Squeeze excess liquid from cucumbers through a strainer. Discard excess juice.
3. Mix cucumber, yogurt, sour cream, garlic, lemon juice, and salt in a bowl.

Greek Chic @Whole Foods - Go Greek July 14th

Greek Chic @ Whole Foods Cooking Class
Let's Get the Party Started - Appetizer Class www.greekchiccuisine.com
On the Menu.. Spanakopita, Chicken Souvlakia with a side of tzatziki, and Goat Cheese Kisses
Whole Foods Cooking Class Thursday, July 14 @ 6:00 PM

Menu Ideas with Greek Chic
Enjoy some Mediterranean Wines will eating and learning new Mediterranean Diet recipes

Feta Cheese Burger. Go Greek Tonight- Grill a gourmet burger..

Feta Cheese Burger. Go Greek Tonight- Grill a gourmet burger..

Instead of boring regular cheese burgers this holiday weekend, zip it up with Greek Feta Cheese Burgers. Add variety to your grilling the simple way.

The cheeseburger—pronounced in Greek “tzeezburger” by my yiayia (grandmother). These
mini burgers are seasoned to perfection and are sure to be enjoyed by your family. Hints of Mediterranean spices add variety to an everyday cheeseburger.

www.greekchiccuisine.com


Mini Greek Tzeezburgers
Serves: 4
Ingredients
1 pound lean ground beef
2 tablespoons plain bread crumbs
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 teaspoons dried oregano
½ teaspoon salt
1–2 cloves of garlic, chopped
6 mini pita breads or mini buns
½ cucumber, julienned
¼ red onion, thinly sliced

Method
1. In a large bowl, mix hamburger, bread crumbs, lemon juice, oregano, garlic, and
salt.
2. Shape beef mixture into patties about ¼ inch thick.
3. Cook patties over a medium heat on nonstick grill pan or grill for about 3 minutes.
Turn patties and cook for 2 to 4 minutes longer or until inside temperature is
160°F. Remove patties and cover to keep warm. Repeat with remaining patties.
4. Place patties on pita or bun bottom. Top with tzatziki topping sauce and slices of
cucumber and onion.
Greek Chic It: Melt Feta cheese slices on top of burgers and serve open face. Serve with Tzatziki Sauce.

Greek Chic @ Whole Foods Cooking Class Summer Recipes

Whole Foods Cooking Class Thursday, June 30th @ 5:30 PM
Summer Entertaining Menu Ideas with Greek Chic
Enjoy some Mediterranean Wines will eating and learning new summer recipes
www.wholefoods.com

Chocolate Banana Loukoumades!

Celebrate by making Loukoumathes.Greek donuts, known as Loukoumathes, are fun to make and eat. Loukoumathes are celebratory and usually served for name-day celebrations in the Greek tradition. They are light, fluffy, and stacked high with honey, cinnamon, and nuts. Greek Chic them by stuffing each one with banana and drizzle with chocolate. My favorite way to eat them...yummy!


Loukoumathes Recipe

Serves: 10–15
Batter Ingredients
1 package active dry yeast
¼ cup water
1 cup milk, lukewarm
1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon sugar
1 egg, beaten
¼ cup butter, melted
2 cups all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon salt
Vegetable Oil (for frying)
Topping Ingredients
1 pint honey, warm
5 tablespoons ground cinnamon
½ cup walnuts, finely chopped

Method
1. Dissolve yeast in a large measuring cup with ¼ cup 120 degree water and a
teaspoon of sugar to activate. Mix, cover with a plate, and place under a light until
it doubles in size.
2. In a separate bowl, add milk, 1 tablespoon sugar, egg, and lukewarm melted
butter. Then add activated yeast.
3. Sift flour and salt into a warm bowl and gradually stir in mixed liquids. Beat until
smooth and continue beating for 1 minute.
4. Cover with a folded cloth and leave in a warm place for 1 ½ hours. Batter should
double in bulk and have bubbles on the surface.
5. In a large pot or fryer, heat oil to 350° F.
6. Stir batter well. Take a teaspoon of dough, use a small spoon to push dough off,
and drop a small ball into deep hot oil. (Drop 4 or 5 balls at a time.) They should
float to the top right away. Turn each to brown them evenly. Takes about 1 minute
to cook. Remove with slotted spoon.
7. Drain on a paper towel. Place loukoumathes on a plate and sprinkle each stacked
layer with warm honey, cinnamon, and walnuts. Serve hot.

Greek Chic It: Banana-Chocolate Loukoumathes
Cut a small banana slice and place in the center of each ball of batter before frying
them. When serving cooked banana loukoumathes, drizzle with chocolate syrup and
nuts. This is incredible!

Eliana says...Happy Name Day to my daughter, Eleni and all the Elenis and Constantinoses!

Happy Name Day/ Xronia Polla to my daughter, Eleni and all the Elenis and Constantinoses!! We celebrated with my Koumbara, Dina, and my mother, Eleni along with her daughter, Eliana at her father's restaurant...John's Grecian Delight. Amazing Chicken Gyros with the best Tzatziki and Greek Style fries. Eliana says Xronia Polla to all!


Celebrate by making Loukoumathes.Greek donuts, known as Loukoumathes, are fun to make and eat. Loukoumathes are
celebratory and usually served for name-day celebrations in the Greek tradition. They are light, fluffy, and stacked high with honey, cinnamon, and nuts. Greek Chic them by stuffing each one with banana and drizzling with chocolate. My favorite way to eat them...yummy!


Loukoumathes Recipe

Serves: 10–15
Batter Ingredients
1 package active dry yeast
¼ cup water
1 cup milk, lukewarm
1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon sugar
1 egg, beaten
¼ cup butter, melted
2 cups all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon salt
Vegetable Oil (for frying)
Topping Ingredients
1 pint honey, warm
5 tablespoons ground cinnamon
½ cup walnuts, finely chopped

Method
1. Dissolve yeast in a large measuring cup with ¼ cup 120 degree water and a
teaspoon of sugar to activate. Mix, cover with a plate, and place under a light until
it doubles in size.
2. In a separate bowl, add milk, 1 tablespoon sugar, egg, and lukewarm melted
butter. Then add activated yeast.
3. Sift flour and salt into a warm bowl and gradually stir in mixed liquids. Beat until
smooth and continue beating for 1 minute.
4. Cover with a folded cloth and leave in a warm place for 1 ½ hours. Batter should
double in bulk and have bubbles on the surface.
5. In a large pot or fryer, heat oil to 350° F.
6. Stir batter well. Take a teaspoon of dough, use a small spoon to push dough off,
and drop a small ball into deep hot oil. (Drop 4 or 5 balls at a time.) They should
float to the top right away. Turn each to brown them evenly. Takes about 1 minute
to cook. Remove with slotted spoon.
7. Drain on a paper towel. Place loukoumathes on a plate and sprinkle each stacked
layer with warm honey, cinnamon, and walnuts. Serve hot.

Greek Chic It: Banana-Chocolate Loukoumathes
Cut a small banana slice and place in the center of each ball of batter before frying
them. When serving cooked banana loukoumathes, drizzle with chocolate syrup and
nuts. This is incredible!

John's Grecian Delight Restaurant
1001 Fort Crook Rd N
Bellevue, NE 68005

(402) 731-8022

New Cooking Video - It's Greek to Me Chicken and Potatoes

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ok6-yF8Xu2Y

Ammos Estiatorio NYC

Recently in New York, I found myself at an incredible restaurant, Ammos Estiatorio. Perfectly located for convenience next to Grand Central Station, we felt the open airy feeling was so inviting.
http://ammosnewyork.com/

Ambiance and an incredible menu of Greek selections from appetizers, entrees and even a Pre/Post Theater Menu. "Ammos" is the Greek word for sand which are reflected in the sandstone pillars that line this open and airy restaurant. Awarded five stars by City Search, the reviewer says and quote, "Chic meets Greek on the edge of Grand Central at this elegant Estiatorio, serving food fit for a Greek god."

That evening, we were greeted by restaurant manager, John Andriotis, who showed us the warmest hospitality making our evening extra special. For a late dinner, we enjoyed a sample of Ammos' Keftedes, baked sirloin meatballs in a tomato sauce along with Macaronia tis Yiayias, pasta served with traditional Greek meat sauce. Two of my personal favorites that I love to eat at home. For dessert, John Andriotis, sent a dessert tray with a sampling of their most popular. When dining at Ammos don't skip dessert and try their unique extensive list like Karidopita with fig ice cream or Milopita, apple tart with ouzo ice cream and much more.

Next time I'm there, I have already planned out what I want to try next on their menu, which will be either their fresh fish Fagri (White Snapper) entree or Ammos Lamb Pita along with Sokolata Chocolate Cake, Strawberry Coulis and Ouzo Whipped Cream.

Ammos Estiatorio http://ammosnewyork.com/
212-922-9999
52 Vanderbilt Avenue and 45th Street
New York, NY

Saganki (Flaming Cheese) Greek Night Party

With only a few ingredients and a flame, this party turned into a fun flaming cheese party. After being asked by Dr. Brian and Holly Pendley to do a Greek Chic cooking demonstration for a group of friends, the party planning began. Holly had great ideas to incorporate the theme from the food, wine, beer and Greek music. Greek appetizers were served and all tried their hand in cooking Greek appetizers, but the best demonstration was the Saganaki. Dr. Brian had the idea to bring Saganaki as one of the featured food demonstrations. He was a pro cook as scene in the pictures along with friend, Chad Zimmerman, who was also a natural. The men really enjoyed lighting the cheese on fire and saying "Opa".

Saganaki served in most Greek restaurants is harder than most think to get the cheese perfectly crispy along with not catching the house on fire. Ingredients pictured above consist of square of Kesseri cheese lightly floured and lightly pan friend in vegetable oil in pan. Taking the cheese off the burner in the pan, a shot of brandy was poured over the top then lit on fire while squeezing lemon over the top to put out flame. All loved the lemon fried cheese taste! Thanks to Sqourakis Family of Greek Islands for providing the items for Saganaki and the Greek wines for the evening.

Finally, the evening ending with Zorba the Greek Dance! The Pendley Family and friends are all now honorary Greeks.

Berkshire's MegaMart Kitchen with live cooking with Greek Chic and booksigning

At Berkshire's MegaMart Kitchen with live cooking demonstrations from the cookbook, Greek Chic Cuisine and book signing with author, Stephanie M. Patsalis

Memorial Day Weekend on Saturday, May 28th from 1-3 PM
www.greekchiccuisine.com

The Hellenic Voice ‎"Greek Chic Cuisine" author Stephanie M. Patsalis offers a unique way to use ouzo: in cupcakes.

The Hellenic Voice

‎"Greek Chic Cuisine" author Stephanie M. Patsalis offers a unique way to use ouzo: in cupcakes.

http://www.thehellenicvoice.com/ee/hellenicvoice/index.php?pageToLoad=showarticle_rss.php&curDate=20110420&edition=Hellenic+Voice&subsection=Food&page=20110420_pg27-40_13.pdf.0&id=art_2.xml&device

Chocolate Ouzo Cupcakes

April 20, 2011

By STEPHANIE M. PATSALIS

A moist, delicious, chocolate cake baked with a hint of anise-flavored Greek liqueur, called ouzo. This gives everyday cupcakes a definite Greek Chic twist. Your family will love them, especially the adults! You can use your favorite chocolate frosting recipe or the one offered here.

Serves: 24

Batter Ingredients 2 1/2 cups all purpose flour 1 2/3 cups sugar 3/4 cup butter, softened 2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa 1 1/4 cups water 1 1/4 teaspoons baking soda 1 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon baking powder1 teaspoon vanilla 1/2 cup Greek Ouzo liqueur 2 eggs 1 cup almonds, slivered 24 cupcake baking cups Frosting Ingredients 1/2 cup butter, softened 1/2 cup unsweetened bakingcocoa3 cups powdered sugar 2 teaspoons vanilla 3 tablespoons milkMethod

1. Preheat oven to 350° F.

2. In large bowl, beat sugar,eggs and butter with mixer on low speed. Add cocoa, water, baking soda, baking powder, vanilla, flour, salt, and ouzo. Beat on high for 3 minutes. Divide batter into baking cups.

3. Bake 20 to 25 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool for 10 minutes in pan; remove from pan to cool for 30 minutes.

4. Frosting: in a bowl, mix butter and chocolate, using an electric mixer on low.

Give everyday cupcakes a “Greek Chic” twist. Your family, especially the adults, will love them!

“Greek Chic Cuisine” is available at www.greekchic cuisine. com, as an iBook on iTunes, and at www.barnes andnoble. com and www.amazon.com.

**Now at Books & Books Store - Visit website

Events | Books & Books

www.booksandbooks.com - Thank you for a great Author weekend with Greek Chic Cuisine!

It's all about the Lamb~ Easter Dinner

xlarge_502x600_12066_1303175879.jpg">

It's all about the lamb... Easter Dinner!

In Greek: αρνί με πατάτες στο φούρνο, pronounced ahr-NEE meh pah-TAH-tes sto FOOR-no

The lamb is the main event for our buffet dinner along with all the traditional side items like Dolmathes (grape leaves), Spanakopita, Greek Salad, red dyed eggs, Tsoureki (sweet Easter Bread) and all the traditional desserts. If I had to choose, my favorites...they would be Dolmathes, stuffed with rice and meat, along with Spanakopita. For Easter, the endless buffet of delicious food that creates the holiday table is truly a culinary culmination of efforts for all to enjoy.

Ingredients:

Easter Lamb

Serves: 6

• 4 pounds boned leg of lamb


• 4 pounds of roasting potatoes


• juice of 1 lemon


• 1/3 cup of olive oil


• 1-2 tablespoons of fresh oregano (1-2 teaspoons of dried Greek oregano)


• 4-6 cloves of garlic, sliced in half or thirds


• sea salt


• freshly ground black pepper


• 1/2 cup of water

Method:

Preheat the oven to 350F (175C).

1. Rinse the meat with cold water and pat dry. Mix a little salt and pepper in a small bowl. Make small cuts into the meat at various points. Coat the garlic in salt and pepper and insert into the cuts. Using your hands, coat the meat first with lemon juice, then olive oil. Season with salt and pepper and place in a roasting pan.

2. Peel and clean the potatoes and cut into sliced wedges, lengthwise. Salt and place potatoes around the lamb. Pour the remaining olive oil and lemon juice over the potatoes, and sprinkle with oregano. Pour 1/2 cup of water into the bottom of the pan (down the side so it doesn't coat the potatoes or meat).

3. Roast at 350F (175C) for 1.50 hour (about 25 minutes per pound for medium/medium-rare), checking every so often to make sure there's still a little water in the bottom of the pan. If the meat starts getting too brown, cover with foil.

* Lamb should reach an internal temperature of 160F (medium to well).

Holiday Weekend Brunch Ideas - Greek Style

Athenian Feta Frittatas and Lemon Tart Filo Cups

These bite-size frittatas have a unique blend of cheese baked to perfection in a delicate filo cup. They are packed with flavor and are simple to make for brunch or as an appetizer. This recipe was the winner of the 2008 National Grand Prize Recipe for Life Time Fitness and Daisy Brand Cottage Cheese. See Greek Chic It tips for two other recipe options.

Serves: 4

Ingredients
1 cup Feta cheese, crumbled
1 cup cottage cheese
2 eggs, beaten
4 filo sheets or 12 frozen filo cups (available in grocery stores)
2 tablespoons butter, melted
2 teaspoons chives, dried
6 cherry tomatoes, sliced
1 red bell pepper, diced

Method
1. Take 4 sheets of filo and cut into 3 ½ x 4 inch squares. Take 2 squares at a time and lightly butter them with a pastry brush.
2. Using two squares for each hole, gently press each sheet into muffin tin holes in a crisscross pattern.
3. Cook at 350° F for 2 to 3 minutes until each one is lightly cooked and filo is set, but not fully baked.
4. In a bowl, mix Feta, cottage cheese, and egg well.
5. With a small spoon, take one tablespoon of the mixture and place it in the baked
filo cups or the store-bought filo cups. Leave plain, or garnish with sliced cherry
tomato on top of cheese mixture.
6. Bake at 350° F for 20 to 25 minutes until mixture is fully cooked.
7. Sprinkle with dried chives and/or diced bell peppers.
8. Optional garnish: before baking, place a Kalamata olive in the center with a basil
leaf as an extra garnish for a great brunch idea.

Greek Chic It:
Replace filo with Pillsbury Refrigerated Crescent Rolls (8 - ounce package).
Unroll dough and cut into 12 squares. Press squares gently into each hole in an ungreased 12-count muffin tin. Continue to follow directions starting at step 4 for cheese filling. These are great for brunch!

Lemon Tart Filo Cups: Have a sweet treat for breakfast—it’s one of my favorites! Make
baked filo cups by following the above recipe for steps 1 through 3. Then fill baked cups with store-bought lemon curd. Garnish with whipped cream, lemon twist, and mint leaf.
These are great for brunch or any time of the day.

The Bookworm Omaha | Events, New Books, Berkshire Hathaway Annual Book Selections- Greek Chic Book Signing

Greek Chic CusineThis Saturday, March 26th /1PM @ The BOOKWORM - Author Event and book signing- Countryside Village ~87th & Pacific

The Bookworm Omaha Events, New Books, Berkshire Hathaway Annual Book Selections www.bookwormomaha.com


Saturday, March 26 / 1 p.m. Stephanie Patsalis will sign Greek Chic Cuisine ($22.95). This cookbook has elements of the traditional and the contemporary. Although there is a creative element to some recipes, each dish is rooted in authentic flavor of the Mediterranean diet. These authentic flavors of Greece include dishes like Spanakopita, Tiropitas, Souvlakia, Pastichio, Baklava or contemporary dishes like Baklava Pancakes, Kalamata Bruschetta, Gyro Lettuce Wraps, Santorini Sunrise Omelets, and Ouzo Chocolate Cupcakes. The Mediterranean diet is known as the healthiest in the world. This food uses the freshest ingredients making it healthy, not heavy, highlighting the best of Greek culture. Make these recipes with your family without fear of making a mistake. Enjoy these simple-to-make dishes by gathering around the table to cook and eat together, and start making your own traditions.

Easter Baskets Ideas...along with menu planning

With Easter right around the corner on April 24th, we all need to get cooking our feast with family and friends gathered around the table. This is my favorite holiday to share after the long Lenten journey and to celebrate! As I am doing menu planning around the main entree..."the lamb", I like to get creative with my appetizers and side dishes along with Greek pastries galore. The "glyka" (Greek pastries) are my daughters favorite part of Easter. Picture of the Greek desserts -Diples. Delicate light dough rolled and drenched in honey.

Recently now available at GreekInternetMarket.com are gift baskets and the Greek Chic Cookbook. If friends and family are far away, send them an Easter Basket of food with a cookbook. http://www.greekinternetmarket.com/giftbaskets.php Shop their site and remember Greek Chic Cuisine cookbook for some great Easter recipe ideas. Kalo Pascha and Happy Easter!

Lenten Fish Recipe~ Greek Island Fish

Greek Islands Fish

This recipe is great for lent or anytime of the year. Greek Islands fish can be made in 20 minutes with a few ingredients. This light white fish is made with an encrusted Parmesan herb mixture and baked to perfection.

This meal is light and tasty just like the foods found in the Greek Islands. It’s so
easy and delicious that you will make it once a week with fish or chicken.

* Greek Chic TiP ~ Healthier version: Replace butter in the recipe with Greek Extra Virgin Olive Oil.

Serves: 4

Ingredients
4 pieces tilapia
1 cup bread crumbs, unseasoned
1 cup Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons tarragon
1 teaspoon oregano
1 stick butter, melted, or ½ cup olive oil

Method

1. In a large bowl, add bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, tarragon, and oregano. Mix
well.
2. In another bowl, melt butter.
3. Take each piece of cleaned fish. Dip in melted butter and then coat well in the
Parmesan-herb mixture. Repeat with each piece and place on cooking sheet.
4. Bake at 360° Fahrenheit for 25 to 30 minutes or until fully cooked. Serve with, Greek Potatoes and a salad.

Greek Chic It:

Herb-Crusted Parmesan Chicken
1. Replace fish with chicken and continue with recipe to encrust with Parmesan-herb
mixture. Follow above directions for cooking. The internal temperature for chicken
should be 160° F. This is great over a salad.

Mediterranean diet reduces risk of metabolic syndrome

http://www.usatoday.com/yourlife/food/diet-nutrition/2011-03-13-med-diet_N.htm

Recipe - eCreamery Ice Cream and Recipe for Chocolate Ouzo Cupcakes

http://blog.ecreamery.com/

Our latest creamy creation is a collaborative masterpiece between eCreamery and our friend, Stephanie Patsalis. Founder of Greek Chic Cuisine, a line of authentic Mediterranean spices, oils and newly introduced cookbook, Stephanie gives a fun and contemporary Greek twist to stylish entertaining.

Each bite of our rich and flavorful Baklava Ice Creams is infused with Stephanie’s delectable blend of chopped walnuts, cinnamon and spices. It is now available for purchase in our Pick Your Pints section or in our Omaha, Nebraska parlor.

As a special treat, Stephanie has shared a recipe from her cookbook for her Chocolate Ouzo Cupcakes which are even more fantastic when paired with Baklava Ice Cream, may we add.
From our kouzina to yours:
Enjoy!

Chocolate Ouzo CupcakesRecipe provided from the cookbook, Greek Chic Cuisine by Stephanie Patsalis

Greek Chic Chef, Stephanie Patsalis and her girls, Athena and Eleni, buttering phillo for tiropitas.
A moist, delicious, chocolate cake baked with a hint of anise-flavored Greek liqueur, called ouzo. This gives everyday cupcakes a definite Greek Chic twist. Your family will love them, especially the adults! You can use your favorite chocolate frosting recipe or the one offered here.
Serves: 24Batter Ingredients2 ½ cups all purpose flour1 2/3 cups sugar3/4 cup butter, softened2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa1 ¼ cups water1 ¼ teaspoons baking soda1 teaspoon salt¼ teaspoon baking powder1 teaspoon vanilla½ cup Greek Ouzo liqueur2 eggs1 cup almonds, slivered

Greek Chic Chocolate Cupcakes with Anise Flavored Ouzo
24 cupcake baking cupsFrosting Ingredients½ cup butter, softened½ cup unsweetened baking cocoa3 cups powdered sugar2 teaspoons vanilla3 tablespoons milk
Method1. Preheat oven to 350° F.2. In large bowl, beat sugar, eggs and butter with mixer on low speed. Add cocoa,water, baking soda, baking powder, vanilla, flour, salt, and ouzo. Beat on high for3 minutes. Divide batter into baking cups.3. Bake 20 to 25 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Coolfor 10 minutes in pan; remove from pan to cool for 30 minutes.4. Frosting: in a bowl, mix butter and chocolate, using an electric mixer on low. Beatin powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until smooth.5. Frost and sprinkle with slivered almonds.

Our latest creamy creation is a collaborative masterpiece between eCreamery and our friend, Stephanie Patsalis. Founder of Greek Chic Cuisine, a line of authentic Mediterranean spices, oils and newly introduced cookbook, Stephanie gives a fun and contemporary Greek twist to stylish entertaining.
Each bite of our rich and flavorful Baklava Ice Creams is infused with Stephanie’s delectable blend of chopped walnuts, cinnamon and spices. It is now available for purchase in our Pick Your Pints section or in our Omaha, Nebraska parlor.
As a special treat, Stephanie has shared a recipe from her cookbook for her Chocolate Ouzo Cupcakes which are even more fantastic when paired with Baklava Ice Cream, may we add.
From our kouzina to yours:
Enjoy!
Chocolate Ouzo CupcakesRecipe provided from the cookbook, Greek Chic Cuisine by Stephanie Patsalis

Greek Chic Chef, Stephanie Patsalis and her girls, Athena and Eleni, buttering phillo for tiropitas.
A moist, delicious, chocolate cake baked with a hint of anise-flavored Greek liqueur, called ouzo. This gives everyday cupcakes a definite Greek Chic twist. Your family will love them, especially the adults! You can use your favorite chocolate frosting recipe or the one offered here.
Serves: 24Batter Ingredients2 ½ cups all purpose flour1 2/3 cups sugar3/4 cup butter, softened2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa1 ¼ cups water1 ¼ teaspoons baking soda1 teaspoon salt¼ teaspoon baking powder1 teaspoon vanilla½ cup Greek Ouzo liqueur2 eggs1 cup almonds, slivered

Greek Chic Chocolate Cupcakes with Anise Flavored Ouzo
24 cupcake baking cupsFrosting Ingredients½ cup butter, softened½ cup unsweetened baking cocoa3 cups powdered sugar2 teaspoons vanilla3 tablespoons milk
Method1. Preheat oven to 350° F.2. In large bowl, beat sugar, eggs and butter with mixer on low speed. Add cocoa,water, baking soda, baking powder, vanilla, flour, salt, and ouzo. Beat on high for3 minutes. Divide batter into baking cups.3. Bake 20 to 25 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Coolfor 10 minutes in pan; remove from pan to cool for 30 minutes.4. Frosting: in a bowl, mix butter and chocolate, using an electric mixer on low. Beatin powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until smooth.5. Frost and sprinkle with slivered almonds.

Food Network & Greek Chic Cusine at Food Network SOBE Wine & Food Festival-

Greek Food Network SOBE Wine & Food Festival- Greek Chic Cusine Greek Chic and many other auction items.

http://www.biddingforgood.com/auction/AuctionHome.action?auctionId=123835007

2011 Food Network South Beach Wine & Food Festival - Auction Home Page - BiddingForGood Fundraising.

www.biddingforgood.com

Browse the 2011 Food Network South Beach Wine & Food Festival fundraising auction powered by BiddingForGood and bid on items to help support this cause.

Dafni Taverna

Check out Dafni Taverna in New York a great restaurant to dine when catching a Broadway Show.

http://www.dafnitaverna.com

LOCATION

Dafni Taverna, conveniently located in the heart of Times Square and the theatre district, provides a dining experience reminiscent of a small village in Greece. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, from the beamed ceiling to the wood plank floor, from the exposed brick wall to the soft Greek music playing in the background.

FOOD

Guests enjoy the hospitality and fine home cooking that the country is famous for. The restaurant serves authentic Greek cuisine, prepared simply and deliciously, using only the freshest and purest ingredients. The menu starts with a large selection of hot and cold meze, and an array of classic salads, as well as a few innovations. Entrees include many of the traditional dishes, a selection of charcoal-grilled meats and fish, and a few intriguing additions, such as grilled quail on a bed of spinach, and braised lamb shank with hilopites (a type of pasta). The meatless moussaka and the hortopita (a pie stuffed with greens, herbs and feta) are hearty, creative vegetarian fare. Delicious, homemade baklava, galaktoboureko and rice pudding are prepared fresh daily in our kitchen.

THE DAFNI TEAM

The management team includes George Andriotis, with close to thirty years ownership experience in American and Mediterranean restaurants in Manhattan and Long Island. Antonis Antoniadis has over twenty years of experience in some of the citys popular Greek restaurants.

WINE

An exclusively Greek wine list complements Dafnis menu, featuring wines from every major wine-producing region in Greece. Most wines are available either by the bottle or by the glass.

Video- Cooking Live on Morning Blend!

Cooking live on Morning Blend Show. Enjoy some simple recipes, Santorni Sunrise, Village Greek Salata, Baklava Ice Cream.

http://www.omahamorningblend.com/videos/

114357489.html