“Summertime … and the living is easy …” This is how I feel this year! So good to be out and about, socializing with friends. This is not a “typical” Cookbook Club event, but since there were two members present, and a whole slew of fabulous cooks coming, I wanted to highlight our friend Jacob’s party.
Jacob lives in the country and is widely known in our circle of friends as a fabulous cook and host. He makes entertaining look effortless, and does not seem to stress about anything! The setting was perfect for an outdoor soirée.
I’ll be honest, I’m not sure I’ve ever had cioppino. I know I have never made it, and now I’m not sure why. Let me just say this – it. was. so. good. In fact, Jacob gave us the leftover broth when we left! Jacob used Giada’s recipe for cioppino, with a few modifications: He replaced the fish stock with two 6.5 ounce cans of clams in sauce; one 28 ounce can of fire roasted tomatoes; four cups of vegetable stock; 1/2 cup of good fish stock; and 1/3 cup of Bragg Liquid Aminos.
I brought Ina Garten’s Panzanella – this is my go-to side dish for summertime potlucks and parties. It is so good, easy, and looks really pretty.
So many good dishes to choose from – we did not go home hungry!
For dessert, Jacob made Mexican Sweet Corn Cake – this is a great summer dessert, and not too sweet! Beautifully presented, with just a dusting of powdered sugar on top.
Friends, food, and fireflies (and dogs) – what else do we really need?
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