#but the pesto looked yummy

[tigresslanzhu]

More With 7-Year-Old Johnny

Johnny: What’s for dinner, dad?

Marcus: Fettuccine.

Johnny, EEEEEEEWWWWWWWW! NOT FETTUCCINE! I HATE FETTUCCINE! NOTHING’S MORE MINGING THAN FETTUCCINE! CAN’T WE HAVE SOMETHING YUMMY INSTEAD?

Marcus: NO!

Johnny: [in his room with the dictionary open] Fettuccine… fettuccine… F-E-T-T…

[temporalreverie]

I'm becoming immune to pjackk's nasty food pics at this point. u know all of it actually tastes good as hell; op is just masterful at making the photos look gross. show me that poorly lit slop and it'll make me hungry.

[buffetlicious]

One good thing about going to Sembawang Shopping Centre is that the shopping mall provides free shuttle bus to fetch passengers to and fro along certain bus stops. And one of those bus stop happened to be right in front of my place so it is very convenient for us. Tonight me and mum are eating at Saizeriya (サイゼリヤ). Flipping through the menu, I saw that they have a new Seasonal Menu with Creamy Pesto Chicken but I don’t feel like eating pasta today. Mum is picky on what she likes so that means she is ordering the Black Pepper Chicken Spaghetti (S$5.90) again.

As for me, I am eyeing the Hamburger & Sausage (S$7.90) which looks yummy on the menu. It came served on a sizzling hotplate with a beef patty and bubbling brown sauce over and around it. There was also sausage, fried egg, potato wedges and corn kernels to round up the dish. Love the juicy beef patty with the savoury sauce and the pork sausage too. Mixed the corns with the sauce before sending them into my mouth. Yum…

[vastill]

Hiii

Hope you’re having a good day!

Can you write more about Mel and Lila? I was rereading their universe and I’m so in love with them 😭

Thank you!!

Grated cheese

Melissa Schemmenti/fem!reader

warnings: none, pure fluff

words: 900+

My requests are open!!

English is not my first language!!

A/N: thank you for the request! hope you re having a good day!💚tbh your ask is perfectly timed bc i was just finishing this fic! i hope you guys will enjoy it!!💚 let me know what you think!! and also sorry for not posting i have vacation now and im barely at home, either at work or going on trips

Melissa had a tough day at Abbott and you wanted to make her feel as comfortable as you could when she got back home. Deciding on making one of her favorite dishes, pesto fettuccine.

When you picked Lila up from school you stopped by the supermarket to buy all the missing products and her favorite bakery for pistachio cannoli from Tony’s.

“What are you cooking Mommy?” Lila asked when you stepped into the house.

“Aunty Mel had a really tough day today, so I thought I will make her favorite. The pasta she has been cooking for you lately, you remember?”

“Yummy! I want to help you! Can I?” Lila asked excitedly.

“Of course sweetheart, go change your clothes and come back.”

Lila quickly run to her room as you started preparing ingredients. As you chopped the garlic and nuts Lila washed the basil leaves. She was great at following the recipe, carefully measuring out the ingredients, and mixing them in the bowl.

“Mommy, how do they make these so long?” Lila asked looking at the cooking pasta.

“They mix up a special kind of flour and water, and then they take the dough and stretch it to make it super long. Melissa can do them perfectly, maybe you can ask her to teach you one day.”

“She is so cool, Mommy!” Lila said amazed.

“Yeah, I know, she is the coolest!” You said kissing Lila on the head.

As you were mixing sauce and pasta together, Melissa pulled into the driveway. You sent Lila to distract her for a minute as you quickly set up the table. You wanted everything to be done when she reaches the kitchen.

As Melissa walked into the kitchen with your daughter, the smell of the pesto fettuccine filled the air. She looked tired, but a smile spread across her face as she saw the table set and Lila's artfully arranged flowers in a vase. “You two are the best,” she said greeting you with a kiss on the cheek. “Thank you.”

“You deserve only the best, darling.” You said kissing her back and pulling the chair for her.

Just as you were about to take a bite of the dish, Lila looked up at Melissa with a soft gaze and said, “Mom, can you pass the grated cheese, please? I mean-” Lila paused and looked at you with shock written all over her face.

Time seemed to pause for a moment. You saw fear on Melissa’s face but also happiness. You never talked about this before so you didn’t know how will she react. She worked with kids so obviously some of them accidentally called her “mom” but this was something bigger. Lila felt so comfortable being in Melissa's presence that she thought about her as a parental figure. Your heart swelled at that.

Melissa reached for the cheese, her hand slightly trembling, but her smile radiated pure joy. “Of course, sweetheart,” she replied, handing Lila the cheese with tenderness.

“Thank you, and um sorry,” Lila said looking down at her plate. “It just came out, I wasn’t thinking.”

Melissa smiled gently, “Lila, sweetie, no need to apologize. You can call me whatever you feel comfortable with.” Lila looked up from her plate, her eyes going back and forth from Melissa to you. You gave her a slight nod, telling her to go for it. She smiled shyly and looked at Melissa, “Thank you, Mom.”

Lila continued with her meal, unaware of the impact of her words. But Melissa's heart swelled with love, and a newfound sense of belonging. She couldn't help but feel her eyes tearing up. Lila wanted to call her “mom” and you were perfectly fine with it. She reached and squeezed your hand, giving you a silent thank you.

After dinner, Lila helped you clean up the kitchen while Melissa relaxed on the sofa. She looked so content and happy, and you knew that your efforts had paid off. As you were putting away the dishes, you heard Lila and Melissa talking.

“Mommy said you can do the pasta yourself, is that true?” she asked, looking up at her with big, hopeful eyes.

Melissa smiled at her. “Of course, I can, sweetie. What Italian would I be if I couldn’t.”

Lila’s face lit up with excitement. “Could you teach me how to do it? Please.”

“Of course sweetheart, I’ll teach you how to make the pasta from scratch.”

“You are so cool, Mom! I hope I will be as cool as you when I grow up!” Lila said excitedly as Melissa laughed, “You are way cooler than me, sweetie, you have that from your Mommy.”

As you listened to their conversation, you couldn't help but feel grateful for the love that now surrounded your family. When you got to the living room you saw your daughter bouncing with excitement at the thought of her upcoming pasta-making lessons with Melissa.

“Thank you for today, for being so good to her. I really appreciated it. I don’t know what I would do without you, darling.” You said quietly to Melissa when Lila was entranced with her cartoon.

“You don’t need to thank me and to be honest I’m the one who should be thankful. You trusted me enough to let me into your small world, trust me with your daughter. So thank you for making my wish come true. Thank you for giving me family.” Melissa smiled and kissed you gently, transferring all her love and gratitude. “I love you.”

“I love you too.”

“Moms! Eww..stop!” You heard Lila groan from her spot near the TV. You looked at Melissa and you both laughed at her reaction.

[whentherewerebicycles]

hello dear Jes, I am all out of good meal ideas!! I’m always in awe of your drive to cook and the great-looking meals you create. Any good recs for yummy and relatively easy / quick recipes? thank u 🙏

hello!! yes here are some very easy, low effort low prep recipes i love. the bolded ones are the ones i find myself making most often when i am like wow i do NOT want to cook but if i must do so, i wish to make the easiest thing ever.

shakshuka (all recipes are basically the same! i make it with canned tomatoes to cut down on prep, add a sliced jalapeno to make it spicier, and top it with feta and cilantro. if you are not crazy about eggs my sister often makes it with chickpeas and no eggs!)

thai peanut noodles (you can make as-is but i often add roasted broccoli and air fryer tofu if i have time!)

ricotta pasta with roasted broccoli and chickpeas (i roast the broccoli rather than broiling it as i am afraid of broiling lol but it's very easy and delish)

creamy corn pasta (my beloved)

spaghetti with onion-"bacon", corn, and basil

roasted sweet potato tacos (roast sweet potatoes, warm black beans on the stove with spices, and make easy quick-pickled onions if i have time - then you can add avocado, sour cream, cilantro, and any other toppings you like!)

potato egg and cheese breakfast tacos (i roast or air-fry small-cubed potatoes, scramble eggs, melt cheese into the eggs, and top with the salsa of your choice!)

migas breakfast tacos

tortellini with pesto and roasted veggies

caprese toasts (toast bread of your choice, then add pesto, sliced mozzarella, sliced cherry tomatoes, basil if you have it, and balsamic glaze... my all-time fave easy/no-cook meal)

pesto pasta with frozen peas (another super easy one i make when i want to barely cook at all - you boil the frozen peas in the pasta pot for the last three minutes of the pasta's cook time. then add pesto, grated parmesan, a squeeze of lemon, and halved cherry tomatoes if you have them)

easy asparagus soup (thinly slice a leek and cut 1-2 bunches of asparagus into half inch pieces. melt 3 TBS of butter in your pot, then saute the leek plus 5-6 cloves of garlic for 8 min. add asparagus pieces and 4-6 cups of veggie stock, bring to a boil, salt and pepper, and simmer for 30 min. transfer it all to a blender and blend, then add 1/4th cup grated parmesan and the juice of half a lemon. serve with crusty croutons and sliced chives)

roasted sweet potato & figs dish (you can also make with dried dates if you can't find figs!)

easy chana masala

nectarine, arugula, and feta salad (best in the summer when it's nectarine season but delish all year round... you can also use peaches. i usually serve it on a bed of quinoa so it's more filling/more of a main dish. the basil dressing is to die for i could eat it with a spoon)

avocado & egg sandwich (you can make this on a bagel, english muffin, or bread... just toast your bread, mash avocado onto the bread & sprinkle with red pepper flakes, and then scramble or fry eggs to your liking and put on top)

[chelemlem]

oooh what kind of things do you bake? I'd love to try them sometimes 💞 have a sweet day!!

hello anon!!!!! thank u for giving me an excuse to talk about BAKING

sooo just before covid i took a 3 week dessert course and kind of became obsessed??? during lockdown i used to watch tons & tons of videos on process nd technique instead of physically yaknow Doing Anything bc i hated the idea of ~wasting ingredients~ at my mediocre skill level which looking back was an insane approach but i kinddd of think it helped bc when i started making things more regularly the improvement was p quick !!

my fave thing to bake is pastry (puff, choux, shortcrust, filo) so basically any kind of sweet tart/croissant/eclair/profiterole/pie ❤️ i also love a savoury curried egg or chicken puff but that's kind of a gamble bc what EYE think is an okay level of spice does not fly for everyone else. when it comes to large batches for a party or something i usually stick to sweet 2 be safe

pictured: fruit mascarpone tart → mango danish → tiny baby pains au chocolat <33

course i make cake and stuff too and it's FINE but i also know lots of ppl who are better at it lol. i'm pretty Terri at piping anything more complex than a simple swirl so when it comes to deco i tend to stick to covering the top with store-bought macarons/fruit and calling it a day. also maybe it's just me but full layer cakes are such a hassle to cut and store...... i adore a cutieful low commitment CUPCAKE tho <33

my order of preference when it comes to baking is pastry > cookies/brownies/cupcakes > layer cakes >>>>> bread. ugh BREAD i cannot figure her out but i Want to...... someday...

thing is bread is honestly such a delicate process where ur final product will flop unless the ratios are justé right and u proofed at something.000001 degrees and mercury is in retrograde whereas the rules of pastry are more relaxed and intuitive and involve doing vaguely unhinged things like holding fistfuls of ice cubes before you handle ur dough so the heat from ur palms doesn't melt the butter... it's also great for LAZY BITCHES LIKE ME because a "4 hour recipe minus baketime" sounds intense until u realize 3h15 mins of that is just chucking the thing in the fridge between rolls

choux au craquelin is probably what i make the most often. love a textured little cream puff!!! versatile and scalable and easy to transport... she's that girl truly

also today i remade the mango one i was telling k about and it turned out muchhh better with a chunkier filling yay 🥭

convinced i'm never going to get a pretty cross-section in my life but wtvr they still tasted good !!!

goals for the future:

bread but specifically this yummy pesto babka i had in february

creme brulee donut......... need her

crookie but less dry bc i've been kind of unimpressed by the ones i've had so far

something citrusy w/o relying on chocolate as a crutch

basically i really love baking! like experimenting/trying new recipes ofc but also just the process of consciously altering and improving upon stuff you've already made :')

and yeah feeding ppl is bonus <3 hope u have a good day too!!!

[forlorn-crows]

also! Pesto canopies! My uncle makes one with pesto and pepper jack cheese and salami. They're sort of like hors d'oeuvres!

ohhh, canapé, is that it? those look yummy!

mountain would absolutely smash that, and other little snacks. that boy will make you the best charcuterie board ever, complete with homemade honey and garlic confit MMMM

[crvwly]

Your baking always looks so good and so yummy. I’ve never even heard of strawberry sweet rolls and now I’m on a mission to eat some. You have any other tasty rolls like that?

hehehe thank you so much !!! lucky for you i make a "special" roll at work every weekend alongside my cinnamon rolls and have a ton for you! you can use a basic cinnamon roll dough for any of these and spread a 1/2 cup of soft butter over it after you roll it out

chai spice rolls - add some extra spices to your usual cinnamon roll filling (ginger, nutmeg, allspice, cloves, cardamom, coriander, black pepper, and cayenne if you like it spicy) and top with a honey icing (honey, powdered sugar, and a tablespoon of warm water)

fruit rolls - you can make a simple fruit jam by cooking a cup of fruit (fresh or frozen) with a cup of sugar and a splash of lemon juice and spread it on your dough as filling! they go great with cream cheese frosting; my personal favorites are spiced apples, spiced peaches, raspberries, and blueberries

pumpkin pie rolls - mix 1/2 cup pumpkin, 1/2 cup brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg for your filling, top with cream cheese frosting to make pumpkin cheesecake rolls!

tiramisu rolls - mix 1/2 cup white sugar with 1/4 cup cocoa powder and 1/4 cup finely ground instant coffee for the filling and for the frosting, mix 8oz of mascarpone cheese with like 1lb of powdered sugar, a splash of vanilla and lemon juice !

make it savory by mixing 1/2 cup of pesto and some garlic with your butter! add parmesan for fun! ham? why not! go wild!

[lnaseib]

last night i got 8 ish hours of sleep and it was so nice bc ive been pretty tired this past week. i slept through breakfast and ended up joining my friend for lunch at epicuria which was so gas td. they had this build ur own pasta and garlic bread with pesto and it was really yummy. epicuria is prob my favorite dining hall it just sucks thats its usually pretty crowded. afterwards i chilled in my friends dorm for a bit while they were helping their parents w smt before heading to my dorm to do some work. i then went to go chill w my friends and dance with them before meeting up with the rest of my friends. afterwards i needed to lock in for my midterm so i went to my dorm to study for the rest of the night and now im going to sleep. it was also one of my childhood friends from home’s bday today and i found this pic from when we were rlly little and we both laughed at it bc why did no one do our hair😖😖😖 talking to her made me miss home a bit more today bc i haven’t gone home since school started which is the longest ive been away from home which is why im especially looking forward to thanksgiving break!

[fiaxsouza]

Saturday, January 20th, 2024 – A baby shower for a beautiful mother-to-be and not so bad looking father too. We gather together in honor of Sloane Danvers and Axel Mathis as they prepare to bring in a beautiful, healthy, and lovable little girl into the world. As baby showers go, all friends and family of the parent-to-be have been invited to partake in an afternoon of light bites, sweet treats, yummy drinks and fun in support and love of baby girl Mathis. It takes a village to raise a child and all who are in attendance are important to the couple and therefore will be just as significant in the life of their little girl. @dancingdanvers & @axel-mathis

Activities with Fun Prizes for the Winners!

Eww #2: Guess what chocolate is in the dirty diaper.

CHUG! CHUG! CHUG!: CHUG IT! First to chug it all with no hands wins.

Don't Say...: Shower, Butterfly, and of course Baby! Guest who has the most butterflies at the ends win. (Each guest is given two upon entry to the shower.)

Wahhh, Feed Me: Grab a blind fold, spoon, and guess what three flavor of baby food you are eating.

Oh You're Expecting?: Blow up your balloon, put it under your shirt, can you be the fastest to tie your shoes?

Drinks and Bites Served

BBQ Pulled Pork, Chicken, Meatball, Mozzerella & Pesto Sliders

Fusilli Pasta with Pesto, Sun-dried Tomatoes, and Feta Cheese

Macaroni Salad, Fruit Salad, & Charcuterie Spread

A Mimosa Bar & Full Open Bar

An assortment of sweets and a multilayered Funfetti Cake

Thank you to the following vendors for their assistance!

Flora & Fauna – Floral installments throughout the venue. (@elinaxkumar)

The Milk Bar – Customized baby shower cake.

Cricket Campbell – Immaculate catering services! (@cricketcampbell).

[ratsoh-writes]

I felt my soul leave my body ya did this on purpose

Babs huffs but gives a soft merry gyftmas an leaves.

She doesn' know how ya feel about gettin so many kisses....🎄(she's a touch starved brat she needs this)

lol I really didn’t. The wheel chose him

The next skeleton she ends up under the mistletoe with looks just as uncomfortable as she does. He’s wearing a thick face mask and scarf hiding everything below his eyes, and he looks like he’s not about to take it off, mistletoe or not

Pesto: ……. Here…

Instead of a kiss, he hands her a little peppermint candy! Yummy

[themirokai]

@the-real-surfski grew two giant basil plants

That is just one of them.

I never do this sort of thing, but I documented making pesto. Here’s the recipe:

I’m not Italian, I don’t claim this is in anyway authentic. I think I copied it down from a website at some point? I’m also not saying that this is any kind of superior recipe. But it’s yummy and relatively easy.

Ok so I picked all of the biggest leaves off both plants. They still look massive and lush and I got 6 packed cups of basil.

Washed them off and spread them out to dry while I walked Bella. Gratuitous picture of Bella:

Then toasted the pine nuts in the toaster oven. Ooo pretty:

Starting off with a double batch so next, 4 cups of basil and this 1/2 cup of pine nuts into the food processor with the equivalent of 4 cloves of garlic. I use jarred garlic. I hate dealing with garlic.

Pulsed this, then added 2/3 cup of nice olive oil. Seasoned it.

Oh no! I forgot to watch the pine nuts for the second batch!

😢 RIP pine nuts.

I did this in the morning and wasn’t going to use it until dinner, so half of the double batch went into the fridge with oil on top, and the rest is getting frozen.

Matches the countertop!

Took it out of the fridge about an hour before dinner so it could come back to room temperature. Added the cheese.

Mixed it up and voila!

Grilled some chicken, sautéed some spinach, boiled some rotini, and you’ve got dinner!

I hope you've enjoyed this venture into documenting a bout of domesticity. Thanks for reading!

[tessherongraystairs]

I made this pizza last night and it was so good-

Cauliflower crust, basil pesto, mozzarella and parmesan, spinach, pepperoni, and cherry tomatoes

Yes I’m aware I can’t eat tomatoes but trust the process

THAT LOOKS SO YUMMY

LIKE HONESTLYYYYYYYYY

[mikazuki-juuichi]

Food Tour (Such terrible hatred extra)

Fourth drabble written while recovering. Hope you all like!

*

H Drabble 4: Food Tour.

By: Yawar.

Fandom: In continuity with my "Such terrible hatred".

**

0: Date.

The brown horse repeated the plan, almost lingering on each syllable. "Food Tour. Across two weeks in the City. In lieu of a vacation proper?"

"That's right," said his roly-poly fox. "Sice we can't quite afford a trip to the beach like the others and neither of us feels like spending another spring break with our families --why not have some fun of our own, in our own way?"

'The others' were only four of the neighbors --Shen and Eduardo off to Acapulco, Roberto and Benito to Veracruz --but the point kinda stood. And the plan sounded, well, feasible. Visiting each of their favorite food spots, taking turns. Leaving space to calculate expenses, and so that neither of them got sick from over-eating or drinking. A two-week date, basically.

"Okay --let's do it!" was the only thing left to said. "Whose choice first?!"

**

1: Burger Bar Joint.

Next evening, the first choice; David's. A relatively fancy neighborhood. Roma, downtown, within walkind distance of their Zona Rosa. Tucked between two expensive fanchises --but the 'BBJ' looked more like an old fashioned 80's place, all red tiles and industrial decoration.

The waiters knew David pretty well. It seemed he used to be a regular here, not that long ago. So they got a nice double table, well iluminated, in full view of the bar. David ordered for them --two specials to share.

Fried cheese balls covered in panko, with a white sauce to dip in. Melty and hot!

Cheese fingers in a lettuce bed, with arrabiata sauce to dip in --and this was just the entrée!

To wash it doewn, one alcholic drink, one not, both still to share. A large glass of Dr. Pepper with a scoop of lemon ice cream floating in it. And a vanilla malt shake with Frangelico.

It all mixed into a heady cloud --Moctezuma wondered if they'd fall into a food coma here and now.

"Darling," he said. "Next one's gonna be a salad place."

"Sounds good to me!" said a chipper David, offering a loopy yet friendly smile. "But first, the main event --burgers!"

A regular-sized one and a huge one, both split down the middle.

The first, fried chicken breast, mayonnaise, shredded lettuce, tomatoes. Yummy, simple and good!

The second was a thick beef patty, caramelized onion rings, fried potato chips --and a fried egg, dripping yolk into the whole thing! Well, good thing Mexico City had never had salmonella cases!

"My God!!" Moctezuma both cheered and wailed. "It'd make a perfect last meal!"

David chuckled. "Can't wait to try your salad place! Be a good respite," he said between satisfied bites.

**

2: Monte Kailas.

Two days later here they were --South of the city, Univerity district. The neighborhood known as Ciudad Universitaria. But at his hour, early afternoon, most of the students and teachers are safely locked in class, so it's easier to find a place to eat.

This one was a floor and a half tall, decorated kinda like a waterfall oasis. All white, minty green, bright and filled with plastic plants.

"Found this when I worked as a courier," Moctezuma explained. "Nice and not too expensive, nor too filling! Let's see now." It's his turn to order for them.

First, a large jar of watermelon juice topped with all sort of shredded berries. Refreshing, suprisingly sweet!

Tiny sandwiches. Baked multigrain bread, cream cheese, avocado, cherry tomatoes --and what tastes like honey mustard, lightly applied.

"I guess it's more for horses?" Moctezuma quips.

"No --we foxes were omnivorous back in the prehistoric days, they say," David half-jests back.

And after this tiny treat --salads!

A tiny but spectacular Caprese. Medallions of fresh white cheese sprinkled with pesto and assorted pepper slices.

And a big one, the house special. An explosion of green and yellow vegetables and fruits --mango, yellow apple, celery, green apple, guava, melon, tortilla chips, and even assorted seeds! All dipped in an incredible cilantro mayonnaise!

"I see what you love about this!!" David let out. He chewed the mango and pepper together, savoring the mix of sweet and spicy. "It's a whole meal course in a few dishes!"

Moctezuma grinned at him, reaching under the table to quickly pat his boyfriend's tight. Washing down a big bite with more ice-cold watermelon juice. When he finished gulping the sweet nectar down, he said: "What've you got planned next? More meat mountains?"

"Not at all! But it'll be powerful, you'll see!"

**

3. Quesadillas Abuelita Coni.

Off to the opposite side of the city, the North. Another academic district, Politécnico.

Tucked between a planetarium and an old cinema that is now used as a pseudo-museum. A tiny yet cozy place with small wooden tables and wicker chairs. Barely a floor tall.

"And it only serves quesadillas?" Moctezuma inquired, looking around.

"Yes, but what quesadillas!" Quietly, David added: "The drinks are nothing special --but even so, you'll see!"

For one thing, the meal was deep-fried to a crispy brown --the aroma was both mouth and eye watering.

Order: Two plain string cheese, two potatoes and cheese, two ham slice and cheese. Accompained by the house jalapeño sauce and by an order of half-cream. To wash it down --plain juice boxes, grape and apple.

Hot and greasy o yes --but oh! So, so creamy and it mixed incredibly well with both cream and sauce!

"NO, okay!" said Moctezuma. "I can see how addictive this could be!"

"I think I actually did get hooked up on these for a bit!" David replied halfway through a generous bite. "Had to force myself to cut back to once a month max. By the way, have you seen the other tables?"

Everyone around, to a T it seemed, was having something of a food orgasm. Eyes rolled back, tails wagging or at least curly.

Moctezuma nearly hooted. "Then, for my next choice --dessert!"

**

4. Helado Oscuro.

South of the city again... a little more to the East. Past second-hand bookstores, and a huge theatre. Coyoacán neighborhood. Next to a more famous but horribly expensive restaurant ("Grossly expensive!" said Moctezuma) --and then here it is, a dark small place that's easy to miss at first. Literally painted black inside, but with bright fluorecent lights overhead and purple vynil chairs. And very bright menus advertising all sorts of artisanal ice cream flavors.

Not a singe conventional one! Sangria. Doll kiss. Rum and coke. Rose petal. Rosé wine. Starfruit. And that's barely the top of the menú!

What to get, how could one possibly choose? But Moctezuma already thought of that: "Sampler. A tiny spoonful of --every flavor!"

David had braced himself for both a sugar rush and a brain freeze. No... so many of the flavors are savory --or even sour! And explosion of chilly flavors... The aftertaste was unique, too --good thing they have free sparkling water to wash it all down. And that was just the first row of the samples.  

**

5. Tacos El Paisa.

More to the West no, in the frontier between two very different neighborhoods, La Raza and Azcapotzalco. Now there's several taco places in these two blocks as a matter of fact. But this one is unmissable. Full to the brim, each formica table full of enthusiastic clients. And yet somehow they get a table very fast.

Two identical orders, very specific ones. Three tacos al pastor in corn tortillas, two steak and cheese in flour tortillas. Two tepaches to wash it down --a mildly alcoholic pineapple drink. Why this? Because these are too small to share, have to be tasted in full.

Pastor! Slowly roasted seasoned pork, pineapple, cilantro, onion, lemon drops. Grease dripping everwhere. Scrumptious! Steak! White cheese melting into the steak bits, cushioned by the thick tortilla. And the fruity tepache helps it all go down smoothly.

"Same order again?" says an amused Moctezuma, winking.

"Up to you," David winks back. "Once you get the first taste you can choose your own rhytm!"

"Speaking of that... I think I know the next choice. Hope you don't mind getting up early, though."

He doesn't, even if the ambience here calls for a long night. It's all so jolly, so warm. Then again, no one stays here for that long, or they'd pig out so to speak.

**

6. El Diletto.

Indeed: Barely dawn and they are on the way for breakfast. Where? North of the city, residential neighborhood Lindavista, about an hour from home by public transportation. Had to take the early subway train fueled only by insant coffee and half a toast each.

Here is the place, just opening now in fact. It looks like a tiny bar behind a newstand? Ah, no, up to the second story... on to a beautiful roof garden surrounded by rubber palm leaves. Very few tables, about half of them occupied by families. For them, a tiny black one with a view of the still idle street below.

Curious order: Green juice, black coffee, couple pastries to share, polvorón de naranja. Bacon and cheese omelette, sprinkled with sliced cherry tomatoes and arugula. Per Moctezuma's instructions, cut a slice of the omelette, gather it in torta bread, sprinkle a bit of green sauce on top...

"Whoah!" David lets out. "How's it so many flavors at once?"

"Chef's secret," says Moctezuma in between pleased bites. "Now, try the rest."

Bittersweet juice, firm sugary pastry, stout coffee. Smoother than David expected. "Did you use to come here with your family?" he asks.

Moctezuma shakes his head no. "This used to have live music, and a friend got the gig a couple times. But the samplers we got, love!"

"Samplers..." David says the word like a revelation, tasting it. He knows what his next choice is --dinner this time.

**

7. Dave's Pizza Tortas.

Very different choice for sure. This one is located in the converted basement of a housing complex deep on the other side of the City, in a blue-collar neighborhood, Pedregal. Said former basement has become something of a street  food market. All small stalls and so, so many deep-fried and sugary aromas floating up to them. Heading to a a well-lit one on the left corner, wading amongst the sea of people.

Soon they are sharing an even smaller table than last time. White formica, just outside the glare of the white halogen lamps. Two fruit soda bottles. Paper plate colding an enormous torta split in two. Big plastic bowl filled to the brim with spaghetti, topped with thick ham slices.

David and Moctezuma swirl their plastic forks in the hot, orange pasta.

"The funny part is that I usually order this as take-out," says David. "So I thought that coming directly to the source would be... I dunno, an experience. Also these are, not kidding... Mighty. Very, very filling, see..."

"No kidding indeed," says Moctezuma after slurping a couple strands. "I can tell by the amount of grease alone."

The flavor has a neat quality. It somehow expands as they chew. And then the ham slices reveal fresh avocado underneath. It all mixes into a surprisingly balanced bite. The soda is at first glance nothing special. But it's the rare kind that is not too bubbly, not two sweet. Doesn't sting the tip of one's tongue. Then, the torta. Warm, soft bread. Well-cooked meat --pork, sausage-- cheese --both string and cheddar--, bean paste, cream. One festive bite, that's the word for it!

But it *is* most definitely filling. This one they are not actually able to finish in site, have to take some of it to go.

Which amuses David. "And to think I used to gorge on these all by myself every so many lonely nights! You know, it's so much better shared like this..."

Moctezuma reaches for David's hand. Holds it. Squeezes it. "I do know it."

And so that leaves only one possible choice for the next and last place.

**

8. Pizza Amore.

This tiny little place in Zona Rosa, steps away from Nicho's bar... where they had their first date. When they first met, that one unforgettable night that extended all the way to the morning...

So, four slices of whatever was ready, any beverages... and it's all perfect.  Sausage, peperoni, olives, mushrooms. Basic cokes.

"So..." David ventures when they get out into the chilly afternoon. He zips up his fleece-lined jacket. "What do you think? Not bad for a vacation substitute?"

Moctezuma meanwhile seems impervious to the weather in his long-sleeved button-up shirt. "Substitute?" He places an arm around David's shoulders, draws him close. "Darling, it was the best vacation of all time!"

So they remain, close as toast and butter, all the way back home.

**

[moonlit-main]

Good things today #10

•It’s Friday the 13th today! I know it’s supposed to be unlucky but I love that day

•Today is my 10th day in a row of keeping up with this

•I took a shower this morning

•My coworker bought me some waffle fries and they were very good

•A puppy named Touché wagged her tail SUPER hard at me when I walked by

•I got to pet both Señor Lime and Marylyn (a trainer’s chihuahuas) and they were being suuuper adorable

•I got a new phone!! This means I can finally use my camera properly lol

•While I was at the mall picking up my phone I bought a couple little things for myself as well as something for my fiancé and my roommate, also I ate cinnamon sugar pretzel bites

•My roommate made very yummy BLTs with pesto for us for dinner

Overall it was a good day! Tomorrow is the last day of work before I have my weekend (Sunday + Monday) so I’m looking forward to it.

[theblogvibe]

Best Pizza & Pasta Combos for a Perfect Weekend Meal

Nothing can create a relaxing weekend unless it is complemented by a soothing meal. For fulfilling cravings and creating memorable dining, few combinations can match the classic pair of pizza and pasta. And if you are in or around Astoria, you are in for a treat - Singh Pizza & Pasta in Astoria brings some of the most mouth-watering pizza and pasta combinations that aim to make your weekends feel like a mini Italian escape.

While here, we will be exploring some of the best pizza and pasta combos in Singh Pizza & Pasta in Astoria. So, whether you are for the creamy pasta sauces, the classic Margherita, or spicy pepperoni, there is sure to be a combo here that'll become your favorite weekend treat.

Why Choose a Pizza & Pasta Combo for the Weekend?

A weekend is unwinding time, time to relax, and time to indulge in a good meal with no rhythm of life from weekdays. There's just something that can be said about a well-made pizza and a hearty bowl of pasta to fulfill all these needs. Together, the Italian classics compose a complete meal that is quite delicious, versatile, and so easy to share with friends and family.

A combination of pizza and pasta allows for experiencing different tastes and textures in one sitting. Singh Pizza & Pasta is realizing this possibility in Astoria to each of the various desires that people have because it serves freshly prepared authentic dishes good for all appetites, from old favorites to gourmet topplings.

Top 5 Pizza & Pasta Combos at Singh Pizza & Pasta in Astoria

Let's dig into some of the best combos you can enjoy at Singh Pizza & Pasta in Astoria, every one carefully crafted for maximum flavor and satisfaction.

Combo 1: Classic Margherita Pizza with Spaghetti Marinara

For those who like their classics, the Margherita Pizza and Spaghetti Marinara combo is perfect.

Margherita Pizza: A Margherita pizza is simplicity at its best. With a base of tangy tomato sauce, gooey mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil, the pizza provides balance and fresh flavor in each flavor.

Spaghetti Marinara: The pasta would pair well with the pizza in terms of its rich tomato base and aromatic herbs to give a burst of Italian flavor in every bite of spaghetti marinara, ideal to be served with the Margherita.

Combo 2: Pepperoni Pizza with Creamy Alfredo Pasta

Want a dish that tastes a little spicy, good and rich? The Pepperoni Pizza and Creamy Alfredo Pasta balance out the spicy, cheesy, creamy flavors so perfectly.

Pepperoni Pizza: With this strong flavor, pepperoni pizza served at Singh Pizza & Pasta in Astoria is well known for its crispy crust, yummy tomato base, and generous topping of pepperoni, cheese, along with many more.

Creamy Alfredo Pasta: It's a tasty Alfredo pasta consisting of creamy sauce that clings to each noodle. This smooth and rich texture fits along with the peppy pepperoni.

For those who enjoy the heartiest meals and love bold flavors, this combination is perfect. The spicy pepperoni balances with creamy Alfredo for a great combination of flavor.

Combo 3: Veggie Pizza with Pesto Penne

For a lighter, vegetarian meal, try the Veggie Pizza with Pesto Penne. This combination is perfect for anyone wanting to have a flavorful herbaceous meal without the heaviness associated with meat-based dishes.

Veggie Pizza: Packed with fresh vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, olives, and mushrooms, the veggie pizza is a colorful, scrumptious meal that does not lack in filling content.

Pesto Penne: Pesto Penne pasta is full of flavor, with delicious basil pesto sauce. Earthy basil tastefully complements the veggies inside the pizza for a refreshing, green-inspired meal.

This combination would look fantastic and be an excellent option for vegetarians and health-conscious lovers. Fresh ingredients, accompanied by herb flavors, result in this meal tasting light yet filling.

Combo 4: BBQ Chicken Pizza with Bolognese Pasta

This is a killer combination for meat-eaters: BBQ Chicken Pizza accompanied by Bolognese Pasta. That's, after all, one of the richest dishes in flavor on this menu, perfect for those looking to answer the call of that heavy yet filling meal.

BBQ Chicken Pizza at Singh Pizza & Pasta in Astoria will combine the smoky taste of the BBQ sauce with pieces of chicken, red onions, and a mix of cheeses. Bolognese Pasta, that features slow-cooked hearty meat sauce, provides layers of savory flavors.

This combination brings the smoky, tangy flavor of BBQ with the richness and depth of a traditional Bolognese. This is a pretty good fill for the weekend dinner.

Combo 5: White Pizza with Truffle Mac & Cheese

This White Pizza and Truffle Mac & Cheese is one such combo that seems to bring luxury and decadence in every bite for a gourmet treat.

White Pizza : A thick layer of combination ricotta, mozzarella, and garlic over a thin crust makes the white pizza rich and indulgent, yet not over the top. Truffle Mac & Cheese: This particular rendition of mac & cheese boasts the infusion of a truffle sauce that will give the classic comfort food a thrust of earthy sophistication.

It's great for anyone looking to up the ante in dining by flavors of luxury. Both meals are comforting with cheesy, creamy goodness sure to wow a palate.

While all pizzas and pasta dishes are dished out fresh with flavor,

what distinguishes Singh Pizza & Pasta from other favorites in Astoria is the passion for quality. Hand-stretched dough, fresh ingredients, and house-made sauces come together in each pizza and pasta dish. Singh Pizza & Pasta takes pride in using only the best it can source to guarantee that every pizza and pasta served is at its flavor and freshness best.

With traditional cooking methods, the place provides authenticity with a twist of modern tastes because here, customers can experience the classic Italian dishes with an appropriate twist. This devotion to quality has got the restaurant a strong customer base as even local people and tourists alike praise for its mouthwatering cuisines.

To make your pizza and pasta experience the best, here are some pairing suggestions that'll elevate your meal:

Drinks: Add this pairing with sparkling water, soft drink, or wine for home eat-in options. Tomato-based dishes can go along well with red wines like Chianti or Merlot, while the white wines that go well with cream sauce are Chardonnay.

Appetizers: Order some garlic bread or a Caprese salad to have a more lightful start of your meal.

Desserts: If you are sweet-tooth, wind up with class Italian desserts like tiramisu or gelato.

Tips for Enjoying Your Weekend Meal at Singh Pizza & Pasta in Astoria

Singh Pizza & Pasta serves dine-in and takeout; you can enjoy your meal where you're most comfortable. Here are a few tips on how to make the most of your weekend meal:

Time: A more peaceful stay would be experienced if one visits the place during off-peak hours. By that time, if coming with your friends and family, it is quit.

Personalization: Singh Pizza & Pasta welcomes personalization. You can add some extra toppings to your pizza or pasta if you want, or you can tell them to prepare it a certain way.

Sharing Choices: Getting several combos is the best because every individual has his or her option of flavors.

Whether you dine in, or take this meal to go, Singh Pizza & Pasta of Astoria boasts a few fantastic pizza and pasta selections to fill you up over the weekend.

Conclusion

There are plenty of combinations for pizzas and pasta, and you will surely find something good in the menu at Singh Pizza & Pasta at Astoria. From old favorites like a white pizza with spaghetti marinara to indulgences, such as the mix of white pizza and truffle mac & cheese, there's plenty of great options to have that perfect weekend meal. Each of the combos here promises the best of Italian flavors and Singh Pizza & Pasta's promise of quality and freshness served with a smile.

So the next time you are looking for that delicious savory place to dine in Astoria, head on over to Singh Pizza & Pasta. Enjoy one of these delectable combos, and really make the most of your weekend.