Do you have one of these in your area? I always enjoy going to an Italian specialty foods market to indulge in the sights, scents, and culinary possibilities…along with a little stroke of nostalgia. Growing up in an Italian family, prosciutto, soppressata, and broccoli rabe (my grandmother called it by its brand name, Andy Boy) were frequent staples at the dinner table…and sure you can get these in a “regular” grocery store, but it’s just not the same as collecting these items in a specialty store.
On my way to work yesterday, I had a hankering for a sandwich with fresh mozzarella. Not wanting to rely on the local big-name grocery store, I decided to take advantage of the newly-opened Livoti’s not far from the office.
It was my first time in there and it was without a doubt a special treat. Delicacy after delicacy in the deli case. How could I choose from among the marinated artichokes, eggplant parmagiana, and stuffed peppers? Then there were the homemade soups (Italian Wedding) being one of them.
I decided on the marinated Brussels sprouts (not very Italian, but I needed some vegetables) and the marinated artichokes to go along with my honey-maple turkey sandwich with fresh mozzarella, pesto spread, and balsamic vinegar. I also was compelled to try the “homemade hummus”. Tahini fever! The hummus has a strong tahini flavor which was really pleasing to me. The marinated artichokes were adorned with a glazed balsamic, perfectly sweet and sour.
My tastebuds were in a reverie yesterday!