Baked Manicotti

We are big fans of Cook's Illustrated/America's Test Kitchen in this house and when we're on the hunt for a REALLY good recipe, how to make something for the first time [complicated or simple] or that perfect blend of ingredients to make the best __________...we go there first.

So we were hankering for some good Italian food - like the kind of Italian we used to get back home in NJ that doesn't really exist here in New England [except maybe in the North End] - and I've never made manicotti before!  This is what we found and oh my was it good!

Here's the thing with these recipes, they have been tried and tested, if you've never made manicotti before, follow it!  Stick with whole milk ricotta cheese and fresh basil! Please?!

We really enjoyed this super meaty, flavorful dish! We have oven safe bowls and for leftovers I made sure to heat up the servings slowly in our toaster oven.  Garnish with a little more, freshly grated parmesan cheese and you are all set! Enjoy!

Welcome Back!

I couldn't believe how long it has actually been since I last posted! Yikes...if there is anyone left reading   I promise I have some good posts coming.

I have some posts waiting in the wings! An artist highlight featuring Lucky Lil' Leo Designs and a few restaurant reviews.  Recently, instead of carefully constructing and photographing dinner [or cupcakes] I have been just trying to get dinner on the table before 8pm.  I'm still getting use to our new kitchen...which means I'm constantly moving around my kitchen tools and appliances, I think the husband is going to glue everything down if I don't stick to an organizational plan soon!

This past year we bought a house, I started working full-time [regularly] and just recently I registered for a Culinary class! Next week I start a class entitled Baking & Pastry products and I'm a full mix of emotions. You can be sure I'll be posting about the failures, tips & tricks I'm sure to learn and baking mountains climbed.  I have no idea what I'm getting into...

So faithful readers, I'm back and hopefully I'll have a good update for you next week. Here's hoping I don't set anything on fire... eek!