Janis Cutler Gear’s Intricate Ceramic Bowls

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December 8, 2023

A textured plated on a wooden surface with 2 butternut squash halves, stuffed, a large silver serving spoon and rosemary garnish.

Easy to make as a holiday side dish or as a weeknight main course, this stuffed butternut squash recipe is rich with flavor. Cranberries and pecans bring a bit of winter sparkle to a base of squash and sausage. Feta adds a hit of umami. Served piping hot with a glass of rosé, the overall flavor profile is greater than the sum of its parts.

You might even try this truly effortless recipe on the evening after a holiday feast: the sausage could be replaced by two handfuls of chopped turkey, or chopped ham. If you take this route, consider a teaspoon each of black pepper, rosemary, and sweet ground chili powder. You’ll love the results.

Stuffed Butternut Squash Recipe

Ingredients

1 butternut squash
2 mild Italian sausage links
10 oz of spinach
1/2 cup of dried cranberries
1/2 cup of chopped pecans
1/4 cup feta
2 tbsp of olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste.

Instructions

Cut butternut squash in half lengthwise drizzle with olive oil and salt and pepper place on a parchment lines cookie sheet cut side down and roast for 40 minutes at 350°.
In a skillet drizzle a little olive oil and pan and add your Italian sausage and chop up so it’s crumbly. When it’s almost fully cooked add your spinach, cranberries and pecans.
When you remove the butternut squash from the oven, scoop out squash, add to sausage mixture, and add feta.
Stuff mixture into the squash, and bake for 10 minutes 350°.
Consider a crisp, mineral-rich rosé wine to enjoy with this stuffed butternut squash recipe. It will elevate your dinner experience!

If you’re a serious fan of winter squashes, choose one of our best squash recipes for your next dinner menu.

Recipe by Chef Jackie Page / Styling by Anna Franklin / Photography by Dave Bryce

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10 Recipes for a Magical Christmas Brunch

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December 8, 2023

An easy breakfast bake made with eggs, presented in a pie dish in the upper left corner, with a piece on a plate, and forks to the right of the pie dish.

Brunch is arguably the best meal of the day, and a Christmas brunch should impress just as much as the dinner. Brunch’s combination of savory and sweet, breakfast and lunch, inspires dishes that’ll start your day off in an extraordinary way. We’ve put together a menu of recipes that’ll bedeck your table with a crowd-pleasing bit of everything wonderful.

10 Recipes for a Magical Christmas Brunch

Maple Chai Cinnamon Rolls

Imagine warm, aromatic Maple Chai Cinnamon Rolls presented to your family on Christmas Day. What could be more magical? The combination of warm baking spices and sweet maple syrup is perfect for those whose nostalgia recalls mornings in great-grandmother’s kitchen, perfumed with cinnamon…and love.

Easy Breakfast Bake

The ease of preparation makes this recipe a good choice for last minute brunchmeisters. It is, however, versatile enough to be prepared ahead of time. This Easy Breakfast Bake contains everyone’s brunch favorites: eggs, prosciutto, sun-dried tomatoes, and plenty of cheese.

Roasted Cherry Tomato Cheese Bread

Embrace the flavors of fresh vegetables and handmade cheese with our Roasted Cherry Tomato Cheese Bread. If you’re looking for a light brunch to leave room for the Christmas feast, have a slice of goodness that’ll keep you satisfied till later.

Creamed Spinach with Dippy Eggs

Dippy eggs with their warm runny yolk, combined with rich spinach, make for a delightful and nutritious bite. This addition to your brunch menu is simple and quick, but elegant in its flavor and presentation.

Carrot and Beet Latkes

Looking for a healthy side to your brunch? The earthy sweetness of Carrot and Beet Latkes beautifully complements the salty goodness of smoked salmon. This recipe makes for a fun meal, where everyone is free to try the garnish combination of their choice.

Bacon, Blue Cheese, and Date Biscuit

Savory, sweet, and creamy: nothing expresses comfort like this homemade biscuit recipe. It will be the star of your Christmas brunch. The biscuits can be served as part of a cornucopia of pastries and breads, or it can be the foundation of a main dish when topped with a poached egg and drizzled with a bit of hollandaise.

Chorizo Scotch Eggs with Chimichurri

Kick this classic British appetizer up a notch with some spice. In this version, Mexican chorizo is used to swaddle the eggs for phenomenal results. Impress yourself and your friends with this unique Chorizo Scotch Eggs with Chimichurri recipe. (Don’t tell anyone, but this is a TABLE staff “breakfast for dinner” favorite.)

Egg Masala Puffs

The flaky, buttery puff pastry sprinkled with spices and topped with a soft-cooked egg is a recipe you’ll want to make for Christmas and every day after. It’s bright, earthy, and somehow turns an already lovely day into something even better.

Breakfast Strata

Those who prefer a savory brunch over a sweet one need look no further than this light and fluffy egg casserole. Made with roasted grape tomatoes, our luxurious Breakfast Strata recipe will be a family request for many Christmases yet to come.

Huevos Rancheros with Corn Tortilla Arrows

Chef John Sedlar conceived this preparation as a lighter version of the traditional hearty Southwestern dish. Add it to your selection of meats and cheeses for a special touch. Serving the huevos mixture in the egg shells takes a bit of fiddling, but is so worth it for the presentation’s wow factor.

Story by Kylie Thomas

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Last Minute Tickets in Pittsburgh: December 11-17

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December 8, 2023

A boy dressed as Ralphie stands in a pink bunny suit in between his mom and dad on stage in Pittsburgh. — Photo courtesy of Pittsburgh Public Theater

The adrenaline rush of doing something spontaneous is unbeatable. Maybe you decide to go see a movie by yourself on a weekday afternoon. Or you decide to take you and your significant other to dinner dressed in your fanciest outfits…followed by the ballet afterwards. The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust hosts plenty of events and with so much happening, you could spend any moment you wish at the theater, enjoying a great show. Do something spontaneous with your day and purchase a last-minute ticket to any performance in Pittsburgh. You might just find your new favorite production.

Fallen Leaves

Harris Theater, December 11-17

Finnish filmmaker Aki Kaurismäki presents his latest dark-comic romance to the city of Pittsburgh. Grocery clerk Ansa (Alma Pöysti) and construction laborer Holappa (Jussi Vatanen) take on the journey of their lives while running into each other along the way. They search for stability and happiness in a world that seems to be falling apart.

A Very Yinzer Christmas

Benedum Center, December 11

Join 3WS Radio for a night of musical performances to ring in the holiday season by 25 local music icons. The event coincides with the release of the Christmas album A Very Yinzer Christmas Volume 1 which features many of the performers. Proceeds from the concert benefit Band Together Pittsburgh, a local organization that creates music programs for people on the autism spectrum.

Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley

City Theatre Mainstage, December 12-17

This one’s for all the book lovers out there. Dive into the world of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice in this play by Lauren Gunderson and Margot Melcon, directed by Kyle Haden. Follow the Bennets, Darcys, and Bingleys, for a Christmas at Pemberly when an unexpected guest makes an appearance.

A Christmas Story: The Play

O’Reilly Theater, December 12-17

Back by popular demand, this holiday hit may just become your newest yuletide tradition as Ralphie Parker and company (leg lamp and all) make their triumphant return to the O’Reilly Theater stage. If you loved the movie, you’ll love the play just as much in this family-friendly comedy adventure.

Straight No Chaser – Sleighin’ It Tour

Benedum Center, December 12

Live out your Pitch Perfect dreams with this suave male acapella group. The nine men bring their magnificent voices together to create every bit of music with only their mouths. This isn’t your college acapella group, instead, it’s a symphony from some of the top vocalists in the world.

Lynn Speakman Quintet

Greer Cabaret Theater, December 12

Local saxophonist and flautist Lynn Speakman brings her band together for a night of music and fun, all for free. Musicians James Moore, Joe Sheehan, Paul Thompson, and Tom Wendt join her on stage to present a chorus of jazz music.

A Musical Christmas Carol

Byham Theater, December 15-17

This holiday tradition for the whole family takes high spirits and combines them with your favorite yuletide songs. Join Scrooge, Bob Cratchit, and Tiny Tim for a true Christmas journey filled with special effects and plenty of charm.

Who’s Holiday!

Greer Cabaret Theater, December 13-17

This comedy holiday show inspired by The Grinch is for adults only so leave the kiddos at home and grab a group of friends. Cindy Lou is grown up now and is experiencing all the fun parts of adulthood, especially the drinking. You’re sure to leave with a belly full of laughter.

The Nutcracker

Benedum Center, December 15-17

We’re seeing visions of the Sugar Plum Fairy, Marie, and her Nutcracker Prince, dance in our heads. Don’t miss this holiday tradition for the city of Pittsburgh by the awe-inspiring dancers of the Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre.

Highmark Holiday Pops

Heinz Hall, December 15-17

You can’t spell the most wonderful time of the year without Highmark Holiday Pops. Well, maybe you can. But it’s more fun to experience this musical Pittsburgh holiday tradition featuring all your favorite holiday songs.

Story by Kylie Thomas

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Pittsburgh Happenings: 12-18

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December 7, 2023

View other events we’re excited about this month!

A group of people take part in a yoga class, stretching and sitting on colored yoga mats on the floor. — Photo courtesy of Anupam Mahapatra

Not every event of December has to revolve around the holidays. We have a mix of events around the city, and a smidgen of holiday cheer. Want to make your own Taylor Swift cardigan? How about immersing yourself in the flavors of Pinot Noir from across the world? No matter your preferences, Pittsburgh has you covered.

A bottle of wine pouring into a wine glass at the eatery at Pittsburgh's The PA Market. — Photo courtesy of The PA Market

Pinot Noirs From Around The World

The Pennsylvania Market, December 13

Try some of the finest selections of Pinot Noir from countries all over. Be ready to wine and dine as you try four different varieties of wine accompanied by a charcuterie snack board. You won’t want to miss this chance to add a very special wine to your holiday table.

A woman helps a girl sitting at a wooden table working on a craft. — Photo courtesy of Contemporary Craft

Swift and Stitch: Cardigan Makeover

Contemporary Craft, December 13

Celebrate your favorite pop star Taylor Swift’s birthday by customizing your own cardigan to live out your Folklore dreams. Sewing machines, patchwork, embellishment materials, and a walk-through by instructor Mandy Wilson will be provided alongside all of Taylor Swift’s jams.

A woman assists two children in an activity at a gallery in Pittsburgh. — Photo courtesy of the Hill Community Development Corporation

Pre-Kwanzaa Event

Nafasi on Centre, December 16

Prepare to celebrate Kwanzaa by learning about the history of the holiday and its traditions. This family-fun event includes lots of food and activities to keep the kids busy while learning along the way. There will also be vendors available for any of your holiday supplies needs.

A group of people take part in a yoga class, stretching and sitting on colored yoga mats on the floor in Pittsburgh. — Photo courtesy of Anupam Mahapatra

Winter Solstice Yoga

Joy In Movement, December 17

Immerse yourself in the relaxed atmosphere of the winter solstice. Enjoy a gently heated room, cozy blankets and bolster, along with slow movement and guided meditation. Refreshments will be provided and cats from Conquer the Colony rescue will be available as little yoga companions.

a group of stage actors play the villagers of A Christmas Carol onstage with instruments in the background. — Photo courtesy of Pittsburgh CLO

A Musical Christmas Carol

Byham Theater, December 15-23

This holiday tradition for the whole family takes high spirits and combines them with your favorite yuletide songs. Join Scrooge, Bob Cratchit, and Tiny Tim for a true Christmas journey filled with special effects and plenty of charm.

Story by Kylie Thomas

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Box Road Brings Unique Antiques to Albuquerque

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December 7, 2023

A captivating blend of antique, vintage, and modern furnishings and accessories from Box Road, housed in the beautifully remodeled 1928-era Art Deco-style Arrow Grocery in Albuquerque's historic Barelas district.

What happens when two friends and business partners with a passion for antiques come across a derelict 1928-era, Art Deco-style grocery store? Alex Hanna headed to Albuquerque to find out more about Box Road.

A Chance Meeting

When my husband and I moved into a new house years ago, we were faced with a very large cold floor, thanks to the previous owner’s DIY addition. Our feet were freezing, but, like a lot of new homeowners, our budget for remodeling was long gone. Luckily, we met Michael Ouellette who was working primarily in the rug business and was kind enough to loan us a luxurious, African-inspired, indigo carpet. That piece was worth far more than we could spend at the time, but it kept us cozy for months until we found something in our price range. That was years ago, but I still dream about that rug.

Michael still deals in rugs but now so much more. He and his business partner Donnie Volkart have been fixtures in Round Top, Texas–home of one of the country’s most popular antiques fairs–for years. Now they’re a lot closer to home, thanks to their new space near downtown Albuquerque. It’s a classic story of people with a passion for what they do who literally live and work out of the back of their trucks to find the best antiques and vintage and modern furnishings and accessories.

Connecting New Mexico to the Hispanic World

Michael and Donnie do lots of buying in Mexico City and have always had a strong connection to the aesthetics of the Hispanic world. When they came across the abandoned Arrow Grocery from the late 1920s in the Barelas district of Albuquerque–the oldest “barrio” in the city, established in the 17th century–they saw an opportunity to connect even more closely with the culture. Indeed, one of the very first things I saw when I arrived were the charming and mysterious faces sculpted onto a series of Oaxacan vessels. While the whimsy that animates these vessels seems to be a guiding force for their collections, it belies the amount of work behind the scenes: the massive remodel of the space, the countless hours traveling around the country and the world, and the efforts to connect objects with just the right owners.

Anything From Anywhere

Part of what makes the store’s style and creativity work is that they don’t limit themselves to Latin American objects or even to just old objects. You can find modernist gems and Scandinavia design sitting side by side quite happily. Distressed painted dressers proudly show their age, topped by French confit jars with crackled glaze. Tucked into weathered cabinets you’ll find folk-art pieces that beg the question: what is this for exactly? And there are what I’d call old-school antiques like 1800s English tableware and chests that look like they made the trip across the Atlantic covered with contemporary artisanal dinnerware and utensils.

The sum here is movingly greater than the parts, and It is this energetic juxtaposition that excites the imagination and feeds the soul. Cultural inspirations from around the world are beautifully curated in this transformed old grocery space in one of the oldest settlements in New Mexico. Both the space and its contents, now enjoying a new lease on life.

While much of their business is to the trade, don’t hesitate to visit, whether to shop or simply to get inspiration for your own interior design projects from these two passionate pros.

Story by Alex Hanna / Photography by Tira Howard

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6 Wines for the Holiday Table

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December 7, 2023

Four people toast at a Holiday setting with holiday wine glasses over a table full of food and candles. — Photo courtesy of Kraken Images

The time for feasting is here! While most of us will enjoy our family’s traditional foods, perhaps the big meal could use a boost with a new wine or two for the holiday table to sip and savor.

Our wine expert, Adam Knoerzer, suggest wines for you to pour at the holiday dinner table, whatever your main course might be. His list includes turkey, ham or roast beef entrees, all of them available at Fine Wines, Good Spirits.

6 Wines for the Holiday Table

Turkey Main Course

Hamilton Russell Vineyards Chardonnay 2021 (Hemel-en-Aarde, South Africa), $45.99

You’d be forgiven for thinking this absolute gem was grown somewhere in Burgundy. But, South African soils have given us this stunner with elegant pear and lemon notes that are bundled by bright, driving acidity and an epic finish.

Tania & Vincent Carême “Terre Brûlée” Chenin Blanc 2021 (Swartland, South Africa), $9.99

Big, beautiful wines don’t always require a big price tag, and this offering proves it. Lush, unctuous textures of melon, honey, and citrus harmoniously mingle with notes of orange blossom and nuts to provide an all-around winner without breaking the bank.

Ham Main Course

Pierre Sparr Crémant d’Alsace Brut Rosé NV, $19.99

Fresh red berries burst from the glass with primarily raspberry and strawberry leading the charge, and a hint of peach and crème work their way into the palate adorned by soft, delicate bubbles. The wine finishes dry and begs for another sip.

Teliani Valley Guardians Rkatsiteli (Kahketi, Georgia), $11.99

Hard to pronounce (urr-cats-uhh-TELL-ee), sure, but absolutely perfect to accompany your holiday ham. This grape is rich in white peach, jasmine, and apricots with a honeyed lemon and lime element on the finish. Plus, the ample acid keeps things light and versatile enough for the side dishes, too.

Roast Beef Main Course

Domaine des Tourelles Vieilles Vignes Carignan (Bekaa Valley, Lebanon), $26.99

High-elevation old vine Carignan is a treat, and this example is full of ripe, dark cherries framed by a meaty, earthy undertone that makes it perfect for your roast. Notes of cranberry, licorice, and spices round things out on the finish, and you’ll be reaching back for more.

Bodega Garzón Tannat Reserva 2020 (Uruguay), $12.99

This juicy red comes to us from Uruguay and offers a clean, modern example of Tannat that’s approachable and complex. Think dark plums, dark cherries, warm baking spices from oak, and a kiss of caramel and vanilla on the finish.

Story by Adam Knoerzer

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Bacon Potato Roses

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December 7, 2023

A round crackled looking plate with 6 bacon potato roses garnished with fresh rosemary, a glass or red wine and a stack of little plates and forks.

There are over 150 species of roses, but none more suitable or more appreciated at the holiday table than Bacon Potato Roses. Limited cultivation and rapid maturation, otherwise known as few ingredients and a short time in the oven, yield a “floral” centerpiece with an alluring aroma. Your guests will oooh and aaah. You will feel like a chef. Pair them with a crisp traditional French Chablis…and everyone around the table will be happy.

Bacon Potato Roses Recipe

INGREDIENTS

6 yellow potatoes
1/4 cup olive oil
½ tsp salt
½ tsp pepper
¼ tsp garlic powder
6 bacon slices

INSTRUCTIONS

Peel potatoes and slice very thin on a mandolin or with a knife.
Add potato slices to a bowl, along with the olive oil, and seasonings, mixing well.
Take one piece of bacon and lay it on your cutting board. Shingle the potatoes together and roll up the bacon and potatoes so that it looks like a rose.
Bake in the oven for 30 minutes at 350 degrees.

Recipe by Chef Jackie Page / Styling by Anna Franklin / Photography by Dave Bryce

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The Best Gluten-Free Potato Latkes

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December 6, 2023

A round blue platter with 5 potato latkes , two small bowls with sour cream and applesauce, 3 gold forks, and a smaller lighter blue plate with 3 smaller latkes, and a blue linen.

A little extra attention makes this recipe for The Best Gluten-Free Potato Latkes very special.

Traditionally consisting of foods fried in oil, perhaps the most iconic item on Hanukkah menus around the world are potato latkes. They, like the other Hanukkah foods that you fry in oil, are a symbol of a miracle. The Jewish people had reclaimed the Temple, and their freedom, from the ruler of Syria who had forbade their religious practices. After the rebuilding and rededication of the temple, there was only enough oil to light the candles of the menorah for one day, but the flame burned for 8 days.

About These Gluten-Free Potato Latkes

TABLE friend, Judah Cowen of Elegant Edge Catering, is sharing his recipe for this quintessential Hanukkah food with our readers. Judah’s told us, “We do not use a binder, and we keep them gluten-free. It’s a bit harder to fry, but it’s worth it, in my opinion. The idea is to have them crispy and to be able to see, feel, as well as taste the shreds — not to be made into pancakes.”

We can certainly attest to the outcome being worth the extra attention, in what we are calling The Best Gluten-Free Potato Latkes recipe. It’s absolutely irresistible when served hot with sour cream and apple sauce.

Print

The Best Gluten-Free Potato Latkes

Author: Judah Cowen

Print Recipe

Description

Gluten-free so all can enjoy!

Ingredients

Scale

1 1/2 lb (3-4) potatoes
1 small shallot
1 medium Spanish onion
1 clove fresh garlic or 1/2 tsp granulated garlic
1 large egg
1 tsp kosher salt
1/8 tsp black pepper
1 cup schmaltz or oil (or a combination of both) for frying

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Peel the potatoes and place them in water until ready to grate.
Peel and then shred shallots, onions, and garlic.
Shred the potatoes.
Mix all ingredients, excluding the oil.
Heat oil in a skillet.
Add about 3-5 ounces of the mixture into the pan, depending on the desired size. Squeeze some of the liquid out for a crispier latke. Fry on medium heat for around 4-5 minutes on both sides until crispy and golden brown.
Place the latkes on a wire cooling rack or paper towel and serve hot with applesauce and sour cream.

Recipe by Judah Cowan of Elegant Edge Catering Company
Styling by Anna Franklin
Story and Photography by Star Laliberte

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Gin Fizz with Rizz

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December 6, 2023