Aside from better tasting food, buying direct boosts your local economy. Reinforces sustainable growing practices and supports smaller, often family-owned farms.  Appreciate what Mother Nature offers you with 8 take away tips for your market shopping.

1.       Shop In Season-Learn in-season fruits & veggies based on your location. Seasonal produce is often locally grown at peak freshness and flavor.   

2.       Make A Plan-Trying a new recipe or doing meal prep.? Make a list and plan for substitutions if an item is sold out.     

3.       Do the Walk-Preview a market for availability & pricing. Look for certified organic producers & sustainable sellers with 3rd party certification (USDA Organic). Growers who adhere to Participatory Guarantee Systems (PGS).

4.       Start A Conversation-Farmers & vendors enjoy sharing their knowledge. Growing methods, varietal info. and favorite prep. tips making you a better-informed consumer.    

5.       Buy In bulk or split it-Save on extra pints of berries & freeze. Split ears of corn with a neighbor. 

6.       Select Seconds-Odd, “ugly” produce still tastes great, use in fillings, purees, salsas & sauces.   

7.       Cash & Carry-Vendors pay higher credit card fees. Some offer discounts for cash or via payment app.s. Savings for both of you. Forget flimsy single use plastic bags. Carry home your purchases in totes, or baskets.  

8.       Stop & Shop-Taking a road trip? Stop at community markets for fruit & local specialties. Check this link while on the road. https://www.usdalocalfoodportal.com/fe/fdirectory_farmersmarket/?source=fe&directory=farmersmarket&location=&x=&y=

Fruit, chili, truffle, or butter, yes butter. Oil with added “flavors” is convenient and often budget friendly. Made with ingredients to mimic a taste, it can contain additives, coloring, chemicals, & preservatives.   

Our organic certified, extra virgin olive oil is solely from Tuscany. From a blend of single estate Frantoio, Leccino, Moraiolo & Pendolino olives. Each adds flavors of artichoke, just picked herbs, fresh green pepper. A mild finish of arugula, chicory & radish. Why add extra flavors to improve the taste? Tried and still authentically true, our olive oil is clean, balanced & delicious just as it is. Buon Appetito!

Want a low carb, high protein meal that takes less than 10 minutes to prepare? It’s easy, your entire family will love it and it’s healthy for you! ENJOY!

Simple Ingredients

·      ¼ cup Villa Graziella Organic Olive Oil

·      One package of Trader Joe’s frozen sweet potato gnocchi

·      One package of Trader Joe’s cheddar chicken sausage

·      peppers (1 red, 1 yellow, 1 1 orange, green)

·     1 yellow onion

·      1 tablespoon garlic powder

·      1 tablespoon red pepper flakes

·      1 tablespoon Italian seasoning

·      Salt/pepper to taste

Easy Directions

1.     Slice peppers, onions and chicken sausage

2.     Combine in a large bowl peppers, onions, chicken sausage and frozen gnocchi

3.     Add olive oil, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, Italian seasoning and salt/pepper

4.     Stir until all combined and coated

5.     Dump on sheet pan

6.     Bake at 375 35 minutes or until crispy. Stir occasionally

To download this recipe, click here

Tried, Tasted & True

We try & taste every recipe we feature. We enjoy sharing recipes, from our families, home cooks or chefs. We sometimes adjust them and want you to have a healthy & delicious experience. So, try them, tweak them, and please tell us about it! Take a photo and tag us on Facebook and Instagram @villagraziellaorganic.

We love seeing your creations and welcome your feedback.

Grazie da Team VILLA GRAZIELLA ORGANIC!  

Extra virgin olive oil combined with semi-sweet chocolate & flaky sea salt make for truffle candies infused with delicious flavors. So luscious, 1 truffle won’t be enough! Approx. 30 truffles

Simple Ingredients

· ½ cup Villa Graziella Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil.

· 2 cups, 12 ounces, chopped semi-sweet chocolate or chips.

· ¾ cup heavy cream.

· 2 teaspoons flakey sea salt.

· 2 teaspoons light corn syrup -optional-

· Dutch process cocoa powder for finishing.

Easy Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine the chopped chocolate or chips with sea salt, set aside.

2. Add the cream and corn syrup to a small saucepan, mix & simmer over medium-high heat until it begins to boil.

3. Remove from heat, pour the cream mixture over the chocolate & sea salt, let it sit for 1 minute.

4. Gently stir with a small whisk or flexible spatula, starting in the center working outward as the ingredients begin to emulsify. Continue to stir until the mixture thickens.

5. Slowly pour in the olive oil, stirring constantly until fully blended and the olive oil is completely absorbed with the chocolate. Cover the bowl, refrigerate about 2-3 hours until firm but not hard.

6. As the chocolate chills, add the cocoa powder to a shallow bowl or plate, set aside.

7. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, set aside.

8. Remove the chocolate mixture from the refrigerator, scoop the chocolate with a 1 tablespoon cookie scoop or measuring spoon, rolling each into a ball with your hands. They will soften as you do this, you can alternately rinse your hands in cold water.

9. Roll the balls in the cocoa powder to coat, then place on the baking sheet. Refrigerate until firm, 2 hours to overnight.

10. Remove from refrigerator, serve, & enjoy!

Helpful Hints

· What is ganache? Chocolate mixed with a liquid. In this recipe, warm cream melts the chocolate to a velvety texture. Once cool, it forms an icing or shell. Ganache can also be used as a filling, frosting or glaze.

· What is an emulsion? A mixture of 2 or more ingredients that float aside the other unless mixed. Like vinegar & oil, in this recipe, the chocolate with warm cream.

· Dark or semi-sweet chocolate has richer flavor than milk chocolate. Heavy cream makes for a more velvet like consistency than regular milk.

· Olive oil balances the rich ingredients while corn syrup can be added for a glossy, smooth texture.

· Make ahead, refrigerate and store in an airtight container 1 week.

To download this recipe, click here

Tried, Tasted & True

We try & taste every recipe we feature. We enjoy sharing recipes, from our families, home cooks or chefs. We sometimes adjust them and want you to have a healthy & delicious experience. So, try them, tweak them, and please tell us about it! Take a photo and tag us on Facebook and Instagram @villagraziellaorganic.

We love seeing your creations and welcome your feedback.

Grazie da Team VILLA GRAZIELLA ORGANIC! 

Fresh asparagus and peas say Spring! Enjoy them in a creamy, velvety dish of risotto. Short on time? Use a slow cooker. Makes a delicious side dish to chicken or fish, or meatless meal with a side salad. 4 abundant servings.

Easy Ingredients

· 5 tablespoons Villa Graziella Organic extra virgin olive oil + extra for coating & drizzling.

· 3 tablespoons unsalted butter

· 12 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth, if possible organic.

· 3 cups Arborio rice

· 4 fresh garlic cloves, minced.

· 1-pound fresh asparagus, washed & dried. Compost the short, woody ends.

· 1 cup fresh spring peas. Frozen, thawed & drained ok too.

· 2/3 cup grated Parmesan Reggiano cheese & extra to sprinkle.

· Zest of ½ fresh lemon + extra to taste.

· 1 each teaspoon sea salt and freshly cracked pepper + extra to taste.

Simple Directions

1. Evenly coat a 6-quart slow cooker with olive oil.

2. In a large pot, bring 11 cups broth to a boil. Cover & remove from the heat.

3. In a large nonstick skillet or pan, heat 4 tablespoons olive oil over medium low heat. Add the rice, stir until edges become translucent with a nutty fragrance, about 4-minutes. Add the minced garlic, sauté 1 minute until fragrant & golden, not brown. Wipe skillet clean.

4. Transfer rice mixture to the slow cooker. Slowly pour in the broth, add ½ teaspoon each sea salt & pepper. Stir and cover, cook on high, until rice is tender, about 1 ½ hours.

5. As the rice cooks, slice asparagus into 2-inch pieces.

6. Heat 3 tablespoons butter over medium-low heat in the skillet. Add the asparagus pieces, remaining ½ each teaspoon sea salt & pepper. Stir and sauté until pieces are crisp and tender. Add the peas to skillet, stir and sauté about 3 minutes.

7. Heat remaining cup of broth in the large pot over medium heat, add the cheese and stir.

8. Add the vegetable mixture to the slow cooker and lower heat. Then add the broth & cheese mixture stirring slowly to fully combine. Top with lemon zest, season to taste with salt, pepper.

9. Transfer to individual bowls or a serving dish.

10. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with cheese, serve & enjoy!

Helpful Hints:

· Short grain, starchier than regular rice, Arborio rice is perfect for risotto. It absorbs large amounts of liquid, resulting in a creamy, hearty texture.

· Sautéing rice in olive oil before slow cooking brings out its’ nutty flavor.

· Do not over stir cooked rice causing it to become mushy. After adding the stock, gently stir to incorporate the liquid and keep rice from sticking.

· Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms in step 8.

· Store in a tightly covered container up to 2 days. Reheat in a covered pan over low heat before serving for next day lunch. Risotto does not freeze well.

To download this recipe, click here

Tried, Tasted & True

We try & taste every recipe we feature. We enjoy sharing recipes, from our families, home cooks or chefs. We sometimes adjust them and want you to have a healthy & delicious experience. So, try them, tweak them, and please tell us about it! Take a photo and tag us on Facebook and Instagram @villagraziellaorganic.

We love seeing your creations and welcome your feedback.

Grazie da Team VILLA GRAZIELLA ORGANIC! 

The natural acidity of our balsamic vinegar with a touch of honey makes a luscious glaze for fresh carrots. Slow roasting them brings out rich caramelized flavors without too much sweetness. A fantastic side dish for dinner, add to a grain bowl for next day lunch. Approx. 6 servings

Simple Ingredients

· 2-pounds carrots slightly thin, similar in size and thickness, if possible organic.

· 2 tablespoons Villa Graziella Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil + extra for drizzling.

· 2 tablespoons Villa Graziella Organic Balsamico, Silver Label Balsamic Vinegar.

· 1 tablespoon honey, if possible organic.

· 1 teaspoon each sea salt & freshly cracked pepper.

· 2 teaspoons fresh carrot leaves, washed, stalks removed & chopped. -optional-

Easy Directions

1. Wash and dry carrots, peel -optional- and slice in half or quarters.

2. In a medium-large bowl whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, olive oil, salt & pepper.

3. Add the carrots to the bowl and mix well until they are thoroughly coated.

4. Set aside allowing carrots to fully absorb the vinegar, 15-20 minutes.

5. As the carrots rest, preheat oven to 375-400°F.

6. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, spread carrots over the sheet.

7. Roast in the oven 15 minutes, turn and flip the carrots.

8. Return to the oven and roast an additional 10-15 minutes until carrots are tender but not too soft.

9. Remove from oven, season to taste with olive oil, salt & paper. Sprinkle with fresh carrot leaves or chopped parsley.

10.Serve & enjoy!

Helpful Hints:

· Slicing carrots in half or in quarters ensures they thoroughly cook before they caramelize. Thinner, slim carrots are better than large ones for this recipe. If too big, the glaze can burn by the time they soften.

· Ovens vary, roast at 400°F max to avoid the glaze charring. Depending on the size, carrots can take up to 45-50 minutes to cook through.

· Carrot greens make a tasty substitute for flat leaf parsley. Strip the green leaves from the stalks, chop & garnish. Add greens to salads, chimichurri or pesto sauces, stock & soups

To download this recipe, click here

Tried, Tasted & True

We try & taste every recipe we feature. We enjoy sharing recipes, from our families, home cooks or chefs. We sometimes adjust them and want you to have a healthy & delicious experience. So, try them, tweak them, and please tell us about it! Take a photo and tag us on Facebook and Instagram @villagraziellaorganic.

We love seeing your creations and welcome your feedback.

Grazie da Team VILLA GRAZIELLA ORGANIC! 

Combine springtime asparagus & scallions, with savory mushrooms and earthy quinoa for a flavor packed dinner, tasty side dish & delicious next day lunch. Serves 4

Simple Ingredients

· 3 tablespoons Villa Graziella Organic extra virgin olive oil +extra for drizzling.

· 1 tablespoon Villa Graziella Organic Balsamico Oro-Gold balsamic + extra for drizzling.

· 4 cups hot cooked quinoa. Fonio grain, farro or rice fine too.

· 8 ounces shiitake mushroom, rinsed, dried, stems removed.

· 1 pound-thicker stemmed asparagus washed; woody stems removed.

· 1 bunch fresh scallions, washed, dried-white stems separated from the greens.

· 2 fresh garlic cloves finely grated or minced.

· 2 cooked fresh eggs, if possible organic.

· ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes + extra for garnish.

· 2 teaspoons lightly toasted slivered almonds or pine nuts.

· 1 teaspoon sea salt

· 1 teaspoon fresh cracked pepper

Easy Directions

1. Thinly slice half the mushroom caps and set aside. Finely chop the remaining half.

2. Fill a bowl with ice water choose 6 thick asparagus spears. Using a vegetable peeler, peel off long ribbons from each stalk. Add ribbons to the ice water.

3. Cut remaining asparagus stalks and peeled spears into 1-inch pieces, set aside.

4. Finely chop scallion whites and set aside, the greens can be sliced for garnish-optional-

5. In a medium saucepan with a lid, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil on medium high heat, add the scallion whites, cook 2-3 minutes on medium heat until golden not brown.

6. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil, stir in the chopped mushrooms, red pepper flakes, sea salt & pepper. Lower the heat and cook about 2-3 minutes. Then add the sliced mushrooms, stir, and cook until they soften about 5 minutes.

7. Increase the heat to medium, add 1 tablespoon of the vinegar and the asparagus pieces, stir to combine, cook until asparagus is crisp yet tender, about 3-5 minutes. Add a bit of water if the pan dries out. Cover & remove from the heat.

8. Place the cooked grains in a serving bowl or plate, layer the asparagus-mushroom mixture on top, followed by the eggs. Season to taste with vinegar, olive oil & seasonings.

9. Drain the asparagus ribbons, pat dry & add to the bowl, sprinkle red pepper flakes & toasted almonds.

10. Serve in individual bowls or plates & enjoy!

Helpful Hints

· Why shiitake mushrooms? Worth the splurge, this super ingredient adds umami, woody flavors, rich depth, and delicious complexity to any dish.

· Compost or use mushroom stems, asparagus ends & scallion greens for a broth with other leftover veggies.

· For added flavor, replace water with chicken or vegetable stock to cook quinoa or grains.

· Bring a pot of water to a rapid boil, gently lower the eggs in the pot, reduce heat, cover, and cook 7 ½ minutes. Immediately transfer eggs to a bowl of ice water, allow to rest for at least 10 minutes. When cool, peel eggs in the ice water or running water.

To download this recipe, click here

Tried, Tasted & True

We try & taste every recipe we feature. We enjoy sharing recipes, from our families, home cooks or chefs. We sometimes adjust them and want you to have a healthy & delicious experience. So, try them, tweak them, and please tell us about it! Take a photo and tag us on Facebook and Instagram @villagraziellaorganic.

We love seeing your creations and welcome your feedback.

Grazie da Team VILLA GRAZIELLA ORGANIC! 

What to make with remaining eggs & ingredients? Why not a frittata! Combine cooked potatoes & veggies, chop and add fresh eggs. This recipe uses the traditional Italian method cooking on a stove top. Enjoy for an easy weeknight dinner and delicious panino sandwich for next day lunch. 3-4 servings.

Simple ingredients:

· 2 ½ tablespoons Villa Graziella Organic extra virgin olive oil, separated.

· 6-7 fresh eggs, room temperature, if possible organic

· 1 ½ cups cooked/roasted vegetables; onions, peppers, potatoes or zucchini.

· 3 tablespoons cream, milk, or dairy alternative.

· 2 tablespoons grated cheese-cheddar, mozzarella, parmesan or romano.

· 1 teaspoon sea salt + extra to taste.

· 1 teaspoon fresh cracked pepper + extra to taste.

Easy Directions:

1. In a large bowl lightly beat eggs & milk, until streak free, season with salt & pepper. Add vegetables & cheese to the eggs, stir to combine with a spatula.

2. In a 10-inch nonstick skillet, heat 1 ½ tablespoons olive oil over medium heat; swirl to coat the entire surface, including the sides.

3. Add the egg & veggie mixture to the skillet, cook about 2 minutes without touching.

4. Using the spatula gently mix the eggs by scraping the bottom of the skillet in a small circular motion bringing the edges towards the center to form large curds. Allow the mixture to sit as the edges set, about 1 minute.

5. Lower heat, tilt the skillet and lift the edges up with the spatula letting the uncooked egg flow underneath and around the sides, until the top is wet, but the center is set when shaking the pan-about 5 minutes.

6. Gently shift the skillet to loosen the frittata, when it begins to brown on the bottom, move to the sink area & place a large dinner plate (12”) or spare frying pan upside down over the skillet.

7. With one hand holding the skillet handle & the other hand on top of the plate, hold steady to flip the skillet over with the frittata sliding onto the plate, set aside.

8. Heat the remaining 1 ½ tablespoon olive oil over medium heat, swirl to coat the entire skillet again. Let the skillet warm about 25-30 seconds. Slide the plated frittata back into the skillet. Use the spatula to shape the sides and cook for 3 minutes.

9. Remove skillet from heat and allow to rest about 5 minutes.

10. Invert the frittata on a cutting board, cut into wedges, serve & enjoy!

Where does the word frittata come from? The Italian verb friggere means to fry as egg dishes are commonly cooked in olive oil using a frying pan.

Helpful Hints:

· To avoid eggs sticking, use a nonstick pan or well-season cast iron pan.

· Make 1 day ahead. Refrigerate in a glass container & bring to room temperature before serving.

· Create your own frittata combination using leftover spinach, artichokes & feta cheese. Broccoli, cheddar cheese & green onions. Cherry tomatoes, zucchini & mozzarella cheese.

To download this recipe, click here

Tried, Tasted & True

We try & taste every recipe we feature. We enjoy sharing recipes, from our families, home cooks or chefs. We sometimes adjust them and want you to have a healthy & delicious experience. So, try them, tweak them, and please tell us about it! Take a photo and tag us on Facebook and Instagram @villagraziellaorganic.

We love seeing your creations and welcome your feedback.

Grazie da Team VILLA GRAZIELLA ORGANIC! 

Create a Winning Game Board with 10 Easy Tips!

1. Set a bracket; position bowls & plates of hummus & spreads on a board, then add the pairings.

2. Make a 3 pointer; use 3 each cheese, fruit, meat & veggie combos.

3. Center on fresh; cauliflower florets, cherry tomatoes, sliced carrots, mini pickles, or radishes.

4. Drive different colors, flavors, & textures, team together soft & crunchy, salty & sweet.

5. Make it a playmaker: use fresh seasonal fruit for peak flavor, pair with savory bites.

6. Contrast textures: add warm olives, crunchy toasted nuts, seeded crackers & whole grain bread.

7. Lay-up the flavors: drizzle extra virgin olive oil over plain yogurt, add herbs to sour cream.

8. Assist with finger ready; cut food and place toothpicks or small forks for easy access.

9. Set up the serve; remove the board from the fridge 15 minutes before eating for fullest flavors.

10. Make a slam dunk, pair drinks to food, not the other way around. Choose wines with higher acidity than food to complement flavors.

Video by RDNE Stock project: https://www.pexels.com/video/preparing-food-platter-on-a-wooden-tray-6004991/

Celebrate the season with cake! Olive oil for a light, fluffy texture, toasted nuts for warm nuanced flavor, golden raisins for subtle sweetness. Vanilla icing gives a festive touch for a truly delicious cake.

8 servings.

Simple Ingredients

Cake

· ¼ cup Villa Graziella Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil + extra for greasing the pan.

· ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened.

· 3 large eggs, room temperature, if possible organic.

· 1-2/3 cup, plus 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour sifted after measuring.

· 1 cup sugar, if possible organic.

· 5 tablespoons milk. Almond, oat, or other milk substitute ok.

· 2 ½ tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder.

· ½ cup lightly toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds, coarsely chopped pecans or walnuts.

· 1/3 cup golden raisins, dark ok too.

· ¼ teaspoon flakey sea salt.

Vanilla Icing

· 1 cup confectioners’ sugar, sifted after measuring.

· 2-3 tablespoons of heavy cream, half-and-half, milk, or milk substitute. Cream for velvety, rich icing. Milk or milk substitute for lighter, thinner icing.

· ½ teaspoon vanilla extract.

· 1 pinch of salt.

Easy Directions

Cake

1. Preheat oven to 350◦F and set the rack to the top position.

2. Soak raisins in lukewarm water for 30 minutes to soften.

3. Coat the bottom & sides of a 10” springform pan with olive oil, dust with flour, set aside.

4. Separate the yolks from the whites of each egg.

5. In a large bowl, beat the butter, sugar, and olive oil on low until foamy. Add the egg yolks, mix on low. In a slow stream, pour in the milk, beat on low until combined.

6. Add 1-2/3 cup of flour in small increments to the bowl, mix on low.

7. Drain raisins, pat dry and dust with 2 tablespoons of flour. Shake in a strainer to remove extra flour.

8. Add the raisins, cocoa, and nuts to the cake batter, mix to thoroughly combine.

9. Beat ½ the egg whites with salt until stiff peaks form and lightly stir into the batter. Then gently fold the remaining egg whites into the batter, do not overmix!

10. Pour into the pan, bake 40-50 minutes or an inserted toothpick comes out clean. Set aside to thoroughly cool.

Vanilla Icing

1. In a measuring cup or mixing bowl with a lip, whisk to combine sifted confectioners’ sugar, 2 tablespoons of milk or cream, and vanilla extract.

2. If too thick add 1 tablespoon milk, if too thin, add a bit of confectioners’ sugar.

3. Add 1 pinch of salt, mix to thoroughly combine.

4. In a zig-zag movement, slowly pour the icing across the top of the cake and sides.

5. Allow to set for 15 minutes, serve & enjoy!

Helpful Hints

· Sifting aerates flour or sugar to mix evenly with other ingredients.

· Lightly toasting nuts releases their natural oil for golden, warm flavors.

· Make ahead and store in an airtight container for 4 days.

To download this recipe, click here

Tried, Tasted & True

We try & taste every recipe we feature. We enjoy sharing recipes, from our families, home cooks or chefs. We sometimes adjust them and want you to have a healthy & delicious experience. So, try them, tweak them, and please tell us about it! Take a photo and tag us on Facebook and Instagram @villagraziellaorganic.

We love seeing your creations and welcome your feedback.

Grazie da Team VILLA GRAZIELLA ORGANIC!