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cherry tomatoes

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What’s the difference between grape and cherry tomatoes?

The other day I began making one of my favorite stuffed pepper recipes, when I discovered that I had purchased grape tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes on my grocery shopping run. Minor panic set in. There is probably a reason, I thought, I’ve always roasted cherry instead of grape tomatoes. Would I have to go back to the store to get the right ingredient? The easy answer is no, my recipe would turn out delicious as usual, even with the grape tomato substitute. However, it did get me wondering what the differences really are, and if at some point, they aren’t interchangeable. Cherry tomatoes Cherry tomatoes are named because their small size and round shape closely resemble that of cherries. They are juicy and sweet with thin skins. They are prized in the culinary world because they squirt juice when you bite into them. The delicate tomatoes are commonly used…

Caprese Chicken Pasta Salad

It’s finally that time of the year when you can introduce some lighter fare to your home cooked menu. Whether it’s lunch or dinner (or leftovers!), this Caprese Chicken Pasta Salad has all of the elements of a perfect summer meal. Just toss some bite-sized pasta and mini mozzarella, with fresh basil and tomatoes from the garden and add some chicken for some protein. Then drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. It’s all the summer flavors you love, reconfigured as a quick and easy pasta salad. When you combine pasta and Caprese, could you ever go wrong? Caprese Chicken Pasta Salad Ingredients 2 cups pasta (any shape) 2 cups chicken, cooked and cut into bite-sized pieces 2 cups mini mozzarella pearls 1 cup cherry tomatos, halved handful of fresh basil, chopped + extra for garnish 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil 3 tbsp white balsamic vinegar, or balsamic glaze salt pepper Directions Cook pasta until…

Mediterranean tricolored rotini crab pasta salad

I make this recipe no less than 10 times a year. It’s always a hit at friend gatherings. It’s a must at Memorial Day. I never have leftovers when I bring it to work potlucks, and it’s perfect to have ready in the fridge anytime you think people might stop by. Plus, you can prepare it the night before, never worry about keeping it hot, and you can adapt the recipe to make as much as you like. When you have to feed a large number of people, try this pasta salad instead of your go-to lasagne. I made a huge bowl of this for my friends after they had their baby and they appreciated someone finally brought them something lighter and healthier! You can add anything to the mix from shredded mozzarella to sunflower seeds or blueberries. I like tossing in mandarin orange slices for a touch of sweetness and crushed croutons for some…

VIDEO: Squid ink fettuccini with shrimp and cherry tomatoes recipe

No matter what age you are, you should never be afraid to tackle a new ingredient, and squid ink pasta is a safe place to start expanding your repertoire. Squid ink dishes are having a moment in the culinary world, mostly for their striking color and extra dimension of flavor. But despite the strong color, the noodles have a surprisingly neutral flavor; slightly saltier than standard egg noodles. Some varieties claim to have a faint hint of seafood flavor, as well. Squid ink refers to the black, cloudy liquid that cephalopods  — such as squid, cuttlefish or octopus — release as a defense mechanism when being chased by a predator. It has deep pigmentation caused by melanin, a common organic pigment found in plants and animals. If you’re making your own noodles, remember, a little of this richly colored condiment goes a long way. Squid ink is most popular in Italian and Spanish cooking, but it’s memorable…