Baked Brie With Sun-Dried Tomato and Pistachio Topping

When entertaining, Brie is the ‘go to’ food to serve with crackers and, of course, some wine. Just have napkins, small plates and utensils for serving.

 

  • 1/2 cup finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes, drained
  • 1/3 cup finely chopped pistachios (shelled of course)
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh Italian parsley
  • 3 tbsp. grated Asiago cheese
  • 2 tbsp. oil from the tomatoes
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 lb. round Brie cheese
  • crackers/toasted baguette slices

Combine the first six ingredients together in a bowl. Set aside.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Place the cheese on a parchment paper lined baking sheet and carefully pile the tomato-nut mixture on top. Bake in the oven for about 15 minutes, until the Brie feels soft on the edge. Using a large spatula (or two) carefully transfer to a serving platter and surround with crackers/toasted baguettes.

You soon will have the reputation of being the ‘hostess with the mostess’. Go for it.

 

Saffron Rice With Sun Dried Tomatoes And Chicken

I was given this recipe about 17-18 years ago by a co-worker. We loved it so much I had to have the recipe. Try it..it is a lovely dish.

  • 1 cup Basmati Rice
  • 2 cups water
  • pinch of salt
  • 1-2 tbsp. saffron flowers (if using a powder, use much less) Can be purchased in any East Indian Store
  • 1/2 cup sun dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
  • 1 cup fresh fried mushrooms
  • 2 cup left over chicken (perhaps from the night before)
  • 3 cheese pouring dressing (Kraft)
  • 2 tbsp. balsamic vinegar

Cook the rice in the normal manner – about 20 minutes. After the rice has cooked, add the sun dried tomatoes, chicken and mushrooms.

Mix together the dressing, balsamic vinegar to make a salad-like consistency with the rice dish.

This is a great dish for a summer or a buffet addition.