Roasted almonds

The recipe is taken from the book "Holiday Salads and Appetizers. Very Simple.

Melon and grape salad is an exquisite dish that combines the freshness of fruits with the tenderness of cheese and the spiciness of nuts. Its origins trace back to European cuisine, where light yet rich flavor combinations are valued. The sweetness of ripe melon harmoniously complements the juiciness of grapes, while crunchy pieces of roasted almonds add textural variety. Romano adds freshness, and olive oil and lemon juice enhance the natural aromas of the ingredients. Delicate mozzarella balls create a contrast of softness and richness. This salad is perfect as a refreshing appetizer on a hot day or as an elegant addition to dinner. Its presentation delights the eye, while its taste offers refined enjoyment for gourmets.

Recipe from Alexander Shtepa, chef of the Londri restaurant.

Roasted pepper pesto sauce is a unique blend of Italian tradition and a creative approach to flavor. It is based on classic pesto but features bright notes of sweet roasted pepper, the spiciness of garlic, and nutty hints of almonds and pistachios. Lemon juice and wine vinegar add a light tang, while the pepper mix adds zest. This sauce pairs perfectly with pasta, meat, fish, or as a dip for fresh bread. Its rich flavor makes every dish more expressive and memorable. Use it to create culinary masterpieces, and it will provide an unmatched depth of flavor to your cooking experiments.

The salad is based on a famous British dish — coronation chicken. It is poultry marinated in a spicy sauce with Indian spices (curry, cardamom) and mango chutney. The version from Bistro Ceylon contains the same flavors and ingredients: mango, ginger, as well as red onion and raisins. Dressing — aioli, Worcestershire sauce and, of course, curry.

Apple and raisin roll is a delicate treat of European cuisine that captivates with its harmonious blend of sweetness and slight tartness. This dessert evokes cozy family evenings filled with the aroma of fresh baking. The tender dough soaked in butter and vanilla envelops a juicy filling of grated apples generously spiced with cinnamon and raisins. The light tartness of lemon juice adds freshness, while powdered sugar and almonds decorate the finished roll, giving it a crunchy texture. It can be served with tea or coffee, and leftovers can be easily stored in the fridge to prolong the enjoyment of this delicate delight. It is suitable for both festive tables and quiet family evenings, bringing warmth and joy to every bite.

Vladimir Chistyakov, chef of Buro TSUM, shared the recipe with us.

Almond granita is a refined treat from sunny Sicily, captivating with its tenderness and sophisticated flavor. This dessert, made from almonds, has a soft nutty aroma with light caramel notes that harmoniously complement its refreshing texture. In Italy, granita is traditionally served on hot summer days, providing refreshment and pleasure in every bite. Almond granita pairs perfectly with aromatic espresso or a glass of sweet dessert wine and can elegantly conclude a dinner. Due to its simplicity in preparation and natural ingredients, this dessert deserves the attention of those who appreciate sophistication and freshness in every moment.

Stuffed grapes are an exquisite appetizer that combines the sweetness of grapes with the creamy tenderness of mascarpone and the spiciness of gorgonzola. This recipe recalls the traditions of Italian cuisine, where simple ingredients are transformed into a work of gastronomic art. Legend has it that such dishes were prepared in aristocratic homes in Italy to surprise guests with unusual flavors. Crunchy almonds add textural richness, while cream cheese smooths out flavor accents. An ideal snack for a glass of white wine, these stuffed grapes will delight lovers of unusual culinary experiments. They are quick to prepare and look like precious gems on a festive table.

Yogurt dessert with berries is a true embodiment of Italian lightness and sophistication. Its roots can be found in the traditions of Mediterranean cuisine, where fresh fruits and delicate dairy products form the basis of many desserts. The taste of this treat is a harmony of sweet strawberries, light tartness of blackberries and raspberries, complemented by the creamy texture of natural yogurt. Almonds add an exquisite nutty note, while almond extract enhances its aroma. This dessert not only refreshes and energizes but also perfectly concludes an elegant dinner. It can be served as a standalone dish or paired with crispy cookies to create an ideal contrast of textures. The ease of preparation makes it an excellent choice for quick yet impressive desserts.

Cleansing salad is a harmonious blend of fresh vegetables, aromatic spices, and nutritious ingredients that came to Russian cuisine as part of the healthy eating trend. Light yet filling, it provides strength and freshness to the body thanks to broccoli, zucchini, and avocado. The dressing made from lemon juice, olive oil, and Dijon mustard adds a spicy note and enhances the natural flavor of the ingredients. Almonds and sesame add a crunchy texture and make the dish more substantial. This salad is perfect for a light dinner or as a refreshing snack that cleanses the body and energizes. It can be served as a standalone dish or as part of a full lunch. The fragrant dressing, tender vegetables, and nutty crunch create a wonderful combination for those who care about their health and seek new gastronomic experiences.

Stuffed eggplants with mushrooms are a true gastronomic delight that combines the tenderness of eggplants, the aroma of fragrant herbs, and the rich flavor of mushrooms. This dish is inspired by Mediterranean cuisine, where eggplants play an important role. Thanks to frying, their flesh becomes soft and rich, while the filling of mushrooms, olives, and almonds adds textural variety. The light nutty crunch of almonds harmoniously complements the juiciness of eggplants and the spiciness of the seasonings. Baked eggplants acquire an appetizing crust, and their filling exudes an enticing aroma. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a festive table, surprising guests with its originality and sophistication of flavor nuances.

This Italian salad is a true embodiment of freshness and harmony of flavors. Crispy spinach, juicy mandarins, and apples create a delightful contrast, complemented by the sweetness of dried cranberries and the rich nutty aroma of roasted almonds. Adyghe cheese adds creaminess, while the orange dressing with poppy seeds provides exquisite zest. This salad is perfect as a light lunch or refreshing snack, filling the day with sunny notes of Mediterranean cuisine. The balanced combination of fruits, greens, and nuts makes it not only tasty but also healthy.

Swiss chard and cabbage salad is a fresh, vibrant, and nutritious option from Italian cuisine that combines the crunchy texture of cabbage, the tenderness of Swiss chard, and the sweet hint of carrots. This salad is complemented by cucumbers for juiciness and toasted almonds for a light nutty note. Dressed with sour cream, mayonnaise, and lemon juice, it achieves a balance of freshness and rich flavor. Parsley adds spice while fish sauce provides a subtle umami accent. This salad is perfect as a light appetizer or side dish to meat and fish dishes. The origins of this recipe trace back to traditional Italian village salads where fresh vegetables and aromatic additions create a harmony of flavors. This simple yet elegant dish delights the eye and provides an energy boost!

Plum muffins are a delicate and aromatic treat from American cuisine. Their roots trace back to the tradition of home baking that combines the lightness of the dough with juicy fruits. This recipe uses semolina, giving the muffins a unique texture, while ground and roasted almonds add subtle nutty notes to the flavor. Plums provide a sweet-tart delight to the baked goods, creating harmony between softness and a slight tanginess. These muffins are perfect for a cozy tea time or as a sweet snack. Serve them warm, lightly dusted with powdered sugar or with a spoonful of yogurt to enhance the creamy taste of the dough. Simple to make yet exquisite in flavor combinations, this dessert will become a family favorite.