A sweet and savory pizza.

As I mentioned in my first post about cooking, I am a novice when it comes to navigating my way around the kitchen. Luckily, my discerning (okay fine, super picky) palette appreciates high-quality, fresh tasting food. So much of what I make is anything but traditional and is always a bit quirky. Normally the words 'gourmet' and 'interesting' don't come to mind when the topic is pizza. Thanks in part to my first job, that is exactly how I prefer my pizzas to be in addition to fun and of course, flavorful.

The last time I had a gathering at my house, I wracked my brain trying to figure out something to make that wouldn't be labor intensive, messy, or too heavy knowing there would be a whole night of cocktails ahead. While strolling the aisles of my favorite grocery store ever, I concocted a recipe in my head, purchased the ingredients and headed home in hopes things would turn out for the best.

I'm proud to say the pizza was a hit! Here is the shopping list and my [attempt] at a cohesive recipe perfect for a cozy meal or to share with friends.

Step 1: Pre-heat your oven to 350°

Step 2: Using a pizza stone or floured pan, roll the pizza dough out into a circle (as best you can). Using a fork, sporadically pierce holes into the dough to prevent from it rising too much.

Step 3: Crack that egg, beat it, and egg wash the entire surface of the dough. 

Step 4: Cook the egg-washed dough for approximately 7 minutes. By doing so, you are creating a "shell" to top with the remainder of the ingredients while avoiding a loss of flavor as a result of overcooking.   

Step 5: When your shell is done, layer the following ingredients being sure to leave a 1-inch border around the outside as your crust:

• A few pads of truffle butter, spread as evenly as possible 
• A thin layer of baby spinach
• Very generous clumps of creamy gorgonzola cheese 
• Thinly sliced peaches strategically placed in array all around the pizza
• Sprinkle of salt & pepper
• Very light drizzle of balsamic vinegar

Step 6: Cook for 10-13 more minutes or until you notice the crust getting slightly darker than golden brown.

Step 7: Cool for 3 minutes and drizzle with even more balsamic vinegar. I actually used a BV glaze which added the perfect amount of flavor without being a drippy mess. 

Step 8: Cut into desired number of pieces and serve.

Between Step 5 & 6.

Buon appetito!   

P.S. Let me know if you have any questions or if you try the recipe out for yourself.

BRB. Going to Vermont.

Wow! This was one of the busiest weeks I have had in a very long time. It flew, yet somehow dragged on by. Amid all of the work, meetings, events, and things to do I mentally convinced myself I was at NYFW ooo-ing and ahhh-ing over all the Fall 2012 looks. Though I was in the same state, the reality couldn't be further from the mental happy place I created. Needless to say, I am looking forward to catching up on all of the blogs by the lucky people who did actually get to go!

In other news, I am leaving bright and early to go on my very first ski trip. You could tell from my awesome image, right? I am leaving in just a few hours but I honestly have no idea where I am going. Yes, you read that correctly. I am leaving for four days and have absolutely no idea where I am going. Or staying. Or really what we'll be doing for that matter (besides hitting the slopes). This is my first time giving up all control over a vacation/getaway and just going with the flow. I have to say it feels pretty good and I am excited to see what is in store. Especially considering my most free-spirited friend in the world (Nancy, I am referring to you) semi-planned it and I am just tagging along. Here is what I do know:

• We are going to Stowe, Vermont. I've never been to Vermont so I am sure the image I have of Ben & Jerry's on every corner and a state that smells of Birkenstocks is completely off base.
• We are staying in a house that will most likely be way to small for the 12-14 people going. Who knows if Josh and I will even have a bed.
• It will take approximately 8 hours to get there. Wherever "there" is. Good thing I am not driving.
• There will be copious amounts of beer, wine, food, and laughter. Honestly, that was the selling point for me.
• I will be the worst skier, by far, and will probably need to scoot down the mountain on my butt more than I would ever care to admit. But at least I will look cute in all my sweet gear.
• I didn't pack a single pair of heels. Or 18 different outfit options for the matter. I am also quite proud of myself for not over-packing for the very first time.

 So, if you have ever been to Stowe or know of some great places near by, please leave a comment and let me know.

Happy Friday!

The best kind of revenge.

Revenge is a tricky thing. A philosophy that often blurs the line between those who believe in it and those who don't. Those who hold a firm grasp on the phrase "An eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth." Or those who wisely respond back with "An eye for an eye leaves everyone blind."

Given the situation, most of us know revenge morally wrong. Childish. Spiteful. Foolish, even. Which could be why many people are embarrassed to admit that they made a decision that can be deduced to mere retaliation. But we've all done it. And have celebrated the sweet taste of pay back by recounting the story and high-fiving our best friends.

So now that I have written the next introduction for ABC's hit show, I'll get to the point. As I watched Adele collect Grammy, after Grammy, after very well deserved Grammy last night, my stance on revenge became very clear.

Obviously I didn't take this photo, but I did edit it & make the graphic. Link back to me please!

Everyone can name someone who has done them wrong. Who has hurt them. Betrayed them. Pushed them to their limit and driven them to want to seek revenge. But where does that really get them in the end? Are a few moments of instant gratification enough? What if Adele chose to slash her ex's tires instead of re-directing her emotions into heartfelt songs?

The world would be a better place if revenge meant channeling spiteful energy into moving beyond a negative situation through positive, forward motion. To rise above and create happiness from anger or sadness. To take revenge by allowing yourself to shake your head and laugh at the bloke from your past. The one that ironically enabled you to propel into a better future. And it's your little secret if you feel the need to silently flip them the bird behind your new found smile.

PS. If you're like me and can't get enough of Adele, she is gracing the March cover of Vogue. Click here to preview the stunning spread. Oh, and Chuck Palahniuk is the bad-ass author of The Fight Club.