Artichoke, spinach and parmesan tart (Torta di carciofi e spinaci)

A sophisticated tart with a thin, crunchy and interesting crust that is great for special occasions. This version uses artichokes preserved in oil and fresh spinach but for a real store cupboard “magic from nothing” moment frozen spinach can be used. Here I remembered “pasta nonnas” in Italy and all their wisdom by placing the tart on a hand printed piece of fabric given generously from a bridal trousseau – what a treasure.

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Strawberry, raspberry and ginger conserve

When there are second season strawberries and raspberries in the market rush to make this sunny, zesty, zingy preserve. “Strawberries and cream” that eternal combo means that it is heavenly dribbled over “syrniki” sweet cheese pancakes or just as good: on buttered muffins and crumpets where it oozes into the holes.

This is an unset jam cooked very briefly and therefore keep in the fridge (2-3 months) or water bath it.

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Black fig, honey and bay jam

Fresh fig’s fleeting visit is somehow elongated by this soft set jam – more a conserve in the manner of preserving small whole early season figs in thick syrup. The pieces stay whole, the honey adds smooth stickiness and the bay leaves take it in the direction of drizzling over hot grilled cheese but sliding over thick creamy Turkish yoghurt will do just nicely.

As there is no “setting” to worry about it really is very easy and quite fast to make.

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