parfaits

Appetizers

Definition: Verrine

Not to be confused with terrine, a verrine ("ver-een") is an appetizer or dessert made of components layered in a small glass.

Not to be confused with terrine, a verrine ("ver-een") is an appetizer or dessert made of components layered in a small glass. The word, which translates to "protective glass" in French, refers to a trend that began in France a decade ago that has spread to the United States and other corners of the culinary world.

Les verrines, as French chefs call them, are served in a very small transparent glass or bowl that highlights layers of color and texture. Ingredient layers can be sweet or savory, hot or cold, raw or cooked, custardy or whipped, creamy or liquidy — just about anything with contrast to create an element of surprise for the diner. Have you ever tried a verrine?

Source: Flickr User fred_v

summer

Red, White, & Blue Parfaits Two Ways — Beginner and Expert

July 4 officially celebrates our country's independence, but this year, make your fiesta as much about food as it is about the fireworks.


July 4 officially celebrates our country's independence, but this year, make your fiesta as much about food as it is about the fireworks. Regardless of whether you serve hamburgers or hot dogs, coleslaw or creamy potato salad, don't forget to leave some serious room for a red, white, and blue parfait, which is both gratifying on a balmy night and visually stunning.

Impress guests by paying a literal homage to the stars and stripes with a dessert composed of berry gelatin and creamy panna cotta. Or, take a far simpler approach to the parfait by serving layer upon layer of whipped yogurt, strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries. Decide which one works best for you this holiday and read more

desserts

Yummy Links: From the Barefoot Contessa to Ginger Ale

Go inside the Barefoot Contessa's downtown Manhattan apartment.

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recipes

Quick No Bake, Somewhat "Healthy" Dessert

On a hot summer night, sometimes I crave a cool, refreshing dessert after a satisfying dinner.

On a hot summer night, sometimes I crave a cool, refreshing dessert after a satisfying dinner. A little sweet to top off the savory, but nothing too heavy. Whenever I want a less-guilty dessert that I can enjoy after eating a full meal, I make a fresh fruit parfait. Layered chunks of ripe mango, chilled Greek yogurt, and syrupy raspberry jam makes for a delicious combination. Ready in minutes, the only work this dessert involves is cubing mangoes and scooping layers. Flavored with honey rather than sugar, this recipe is so much healthier than a bowl of ice cream or a piece of cake. Get it now, just read more

recipes

Come Party With Me: Easter - Menu (Brunch, Part 2)

The words Easter and brunch go hand in hand, and this week I am planning one party and offering you two delicious menus.

The words Easter and brunch go hand in hand, and this week I am planning one party and offering you two delicious menus. Everything about this fete should scream springtime, from the yellow and green color scheme, to the Easter egg invitations to the poached egg main dish (you can't have Easter without eggs!). Serve maple-glazed bacon with a sweet treat in the form of coffee cake or a fruity berry parfait. To look at the recipes, read more