Crème Cooking Academy

It was an exciting day in the Crème kitchen!  I had the pleasure of hosting 60 smart, young women through a collaboration with College of St Mary.  In this two hour workshop, we covered simple recipes that the girls can go home and cook for their families: Paula's Meatballs with Red Sauce, Rosemary Focaccia Bread with Herbed Dipping Oil, and Mini Berry Shortcakes.

First, I started with my meatball recipe.  This recipe can be served with pasta, on sandwiches, as an appetizer...the possibilities are endless!  I use a combination of ground beef and pork.  We chatted about the science behind the meatball's binding agents of bread, milk, cheese, and eggs. And of course...we sampled them!

Next, was my super top secret Rosemary Focaccia Bread.  You would never know this bread was not homemade!  Olive oil is your best friend for this recipe.  Serve with an herbed dipping oil for extra flavor!

Lastly, we made a Mini Berry Shortcakes with Homemade Whipped Topping.  I combine the berries with lemon juice and sugar then let it sit so that berries could soak up their own juices. Next, I cubed a loaf of pound cake.  I had a special helper whip the heavy whipping cream, sugar, and vanilla into homemade whipped cream.  This is where your creativity comes in -- layer the three components into a cute dish.  It's a sweet, healthy choice for dessert! (Haha!)

All in all -- it was such a treat having all these ladies in the Crème kitchen!  Thank you for spending your summer afternoon with me.  I hope your families love these recipes as much as I do!  Cheers! XOXO Paula