A Celebratory Meal

What a beautiful setting for the “Heartland Holiday Feast” in rural Pennsylvania!

Lidia’s guests begin to arrive!

Lidia greets her guests.

It’s wonderful to see everyone again!

Lidia’s beautiful antipasto table

Antipasto made up of Affettati Misti, in this case pork, inspired by Latricia and her family.

Octopus in Potato Salad is among the other hors d’oeuvres.

Cod fritters inspired by Lidia’s eelpout adventures

Let’s eat!

Lidia’s guests get to know each other over hors d’oeuvres.

Cannellini and Pancetta Bruschetta

Roasted Olives with Orange and Rosemary

Fresh bread and cheese

Roasted Butternut Squash with Balsamic Reduction

Adding the finishing touch to the Shrimp and Leek Risotto

Also on the menu: Oven Braised Pork Chop with Red Onions and Pears.

Lidia’s Winter Caponata is alive with color!

Polenta, inspired by the corn and tamales Lidia ate in Texas

Braised Broccoli Rabe

Lidia toasts her guests.

Latricia from Wisconsin listens to Lidia’s toast.

Lidia’s guests enjoy the food and conversation.

Shoofly pie, a Pennsylvania Dutch dessert

Sliced and ready to eat…

Bonnie and Adam agree that it’s the perfect texture!

Jam Tartlettes like Lidia’s grandmother used to make

Please pass the crostoli!

Crostoli is an Italian tradition.

Pignoli cookies, a Christmas treat that heralds from Southern Italy

“When we’re all at the table, when we are sharing at the table…we really are united. The table and eating together is the ultimate equalizer.” ~ Lidia

Happy guests!