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Swimwear Trends This Summer

Anna is currently a student at 
Fairfield University. She loves 
reading, the beach, and iced 
peach green tea lemonades!

    Summertime on Long Island is filled with sunny days spent at countless beaches! So, get ready for your beach days and sun-filled vacations with the newest beach wear trends for this summer.                  Every year, it is wise to invest in a few new bathing suits. Even though one-pieces and bikinis never go out of style, why not upgrade your beach wardrobe with new cuts and designs. 
    The hottest bathing suit trend this year is a high-cut bottom. High-cut bottoms are the most flattering way to showcase your legs at the beach or pool. Whether you love one-pieces or bikinis, the high-cut trend is available in a variety of styles and colors. 
    Smocked bathing suits are an adorable, feminine look to show off this season. This style comes in a one-piece or bikini (whichever you prefer). Also, pair it with a sarong or maxi skirt to make a quick ensemble for dinner or drinks after a day of soaking in the sun. Be sure to purchase a patterned, smocked bathing suit and add some texture to your collection. 
    Throw it back to the ‘80s this season with a high-waisted bikini. This style will add some vintage flair and is flattering on all body types. There are also many styles and colors to choose from when selecting the perfect high-wasited bikini. The possibilites are endless…
     Neon colors are everywhere this year, especially bathing suits! Add a pop of color by wearing a neon bathing suit to the beach. You’ll be making a statement with these eye-catching colors. Plus, tanned skin looks amazing with a neon bathing suit. 
    Another popular design for bathing suits this summer is animal print. This daring style comes in a variety of different patterns including leopard, zebra, and even python! Whether it’s a one-piece or bikini, you’ll be able to find the perfect animal print suitable for you!
     So, treat yourself to a new bathing suit this summer. Pair it with a trendy cover-up, sandals, straw hat or bag, and be ready for what the season has in store for you.  Remember, the key to a successful day in the sun is confidence.  

 

Limon’ Love – Homemade Lemon Pound Cake

Denise Gianatasio is a Northport Village resident, freelance writer and licensed agent at Signature Premier Properties in Northport. Please feel free to contact her for any advice you may need at dishinwithdenise@yahoo.com.

Limón is Spanish for the yellow, juicy, and citrus lemon! Its snappy flavor makes it the perfect summertime ingredient for desserts. There is nothing as fresh, clean and pure as a lemon cake made from scratch! I spent a day out in Hampton Bays with my dear friend, Dee Hutton, and she sure did bake to impress. She showed up with her crowd pleasing, zest for life and lemon pound cake! Truly loved by all, this is the only lemon pound cake you’ll ever desire thereafter. With its moist texture and rich citrus flavor, trust me, you too will be hooked upon tasting. Feel free to pair it with some fresh raspberries or blackberries. It’s pure culinary magic! The fresh lemon zest gives this dessert a refreshing tang. Make it soon…you’re a bite away to fresh love and a happy day with friends! xoxo Denise

Cake:
1 cup butter softened
3 cups granulated sugar
5 T lemon juice
1 T (or more) grated lemon peel
1 t lemon extract
3 cups all-purpose flour
6 eggs
½ t baking soda
¼ t salt 
1 ¼ cups sour cream

Icing:
¼ cup sour cream
2 T butter softened
2 ½ cups confectioners’ sugar
3 T lemon juice
2 t (or more) lemon peel

Cake: In a bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in lemon juice, lemon peel and lemon extract. Combine flour, baking soda, and salt. Add to creamed mixture, alternating with sour cream until combined. Pour into greased and floured 10” tube pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 55-60 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean. 

Icing: In a small bowl, beat sour cream and softened butter until smooth. Gradually add confectioners’ sugar, beat in lemon juice and peel. Drizzle over cake and decorate the cake plate with fresh mint leaves and real candy lemon drops. Add additional zest. Enjoy! 
Thanks Dee!

 

Al Fresco Dining

Joanna Adduci is a Northport resident, currently working as a Marketing 
& Social Media Specialist. Joanna can be reached by email at LISAVORYEATS@gmail.com. 

    Summer is officially upon us, and it’s time to enjoy your next meal outside. Whether it’s drinks and apps, or a sit-down dinner, Long Island offers an assortment of al fresco dining options. When I’m choosing an outdoor spot for my next meal, it’s important to me that quality remains at the top of mind – while also incorporating a killer view and remaining comfortable for my meal. As a Northport Village resident, there are plenty of local places to keep me satisfied such as: Tim’s Shipwreck Diner, The Purple Elephant, Robke’s Country Inn, Skipper’s Pub, Rockin’ Fish, Nina’s Pizzeria and Copenhagen Bakery. If I’m feeling like a short drive I opt for: Mill Pond House (a short drive to Centerport), The Whales Tale, and Vauxhall (a short drive to Huntington).
    My local Northport spots are conveniently located, offer comfy outdoor seating, and an assortment of dining options depending on what I’m craving. Tim’s Shipwreck Diner has the best breakfast burrito around, and I also love their pancakes! The Purple Elephant is a great local, cozy haven for a healthier bite – yummy vegan options and a great Kombucha selection. Robke’s Country Inn is a short walk from our house, and I’m addicted to their old school Italian offerings – think steaks, seafood, pasta and fish. Skipper’s Pub has the best happy hour around town – cheap, old school vibes and surprisingly yummy bar snacks – a great spot to meet friends after work. Rockin’ Fish is my go-to for a cold beer and oysters, plus I can bring my dog! Nina’s Pizzeria is a neighborhood "sleeper" – meaning I wouldn’t expect such high-quality entrées from a pizzeria. Their pizza is amazing, but make sure to also try their appetizers and entrées – unexpectedly authentic and reasonably priced. Copenhagen Bakery is close to my heart – the yummiest breakfast omelettes around, and my #1 pick for local breads and pastry. (Seriously, order everything.)
    Mill Pond House is a dreamy date night spot. My boyfriend and I enjoyed our first date there (so perhaps I’m a tad biased?), and I love the combination of diversified menus, incredible waterside view and plush ambiance. I typically order sushi here, and wildly enjoy the artisanal cheese board and in-house chopped salad. Looking for something more casual? The Whales Tale is a solid option to enjoy an afterwork sunset and order some apps & drinks. I enjoy the beachy atmosphere and the fact that I can keep it casual with sandals. If you’re around Huntington Village: Vauxhall is the spot to go! Probably the most near-and-dear restaurant on Long Island for me, (bold statement, I know), I am never underwhelmed by their perfectly crafted cocktails or burgers. (Especially if PJ is bartending!) In the nicer weather, opt to sit outside and enjoy the picnic tables and people watching. You can’t go wrong here: this place is old faithful.
    Summer is here. Enjoy your next drink and/or meal… al fresco! 

 

With Age Comes Privilege: NYS Summer Discounts for Seniors

Kathy Horowitz co-facilitates a monthly women’s writer’s group at the Life Center in Huntington. Her work has appeared in The Long Islander, Long Island Woman, Calyx, Blue Unicorn, and Seventh Quarry. Kathy offers freelance writing, editing, and proofreading services.
(kahorowitz@gmail.com) • www.kathyhorowitz.com.  

    After decades of working hard and raising children, I’ve learned that there are many well-deserved benefits in becoming of “senior” age.  Many benefits begin age 55. For example, if you’re 62 you can go to Long Island beaches for free during the week, but pay a senior rate on weekends. Ferrying across Long Island Sound to Bridgeport gives a $3 discount for passengers 60 and older.
    A senior’s bible should be a membership to AARP. For $16 per year (or less if you sign up for multiple years), one can join at age 50 although most benefits begin at 55. Benefits include: healthcare and Medicare eligible programs; pet insurance plans; vehicle, life, property and business programs; health and wellness deals; travel and car rental offers. Also, discounts to hotels and resorts, as well as rail and tours; travel planning; restaurants and more. Sign up for email alerts and articles on discounts for travel, car rentals, hotels, medications, fraud alerts, investing your hard-earned money and much more. Their magazine articles are priceless with sound ideas and information: how to stop those annoying robo calls and how to save money on 
almost any matter that applies to senior and senior living. Go to www.aarp.org for more information.
    The New York State Golden Park Program allows residents 62 or above to obtain free vehicle access to most state parks, boat launch sites and arboretums, as well as discounts to state historic sites and state-operated golf courses on weekdays (except holidays). A valid NYS driver’s license is required. For more information visit https://parks.ny.gov/admission/golden-park-program.aspx.
    The America the Beautiful Senior Pass allows residents 62 and above a lifetime entrance to national parks, national monuments, national historic sites, national wildlife refuge and more for $80. (An annual pass is available for $20.) Visit the U.S. National Park Service website for more information. Amtrak also offers a 10% discount for seniors 65 and older on most rail fares (www.amtrak.com/seniors-discount).
    One of my favorite perks is the 5% senior discount at Dunkin’ Donuts, though offers may vary at each 
franchise. Another one I recently learned about is the 15% discount to Kohl’s on Wednesdays for those 55 and older.
    There are many perks offered to seniors. Do your research and be sure to take advantage of those discounts. Start planning your next adventure and enjoy the rest of your summer at a great price.   

   For those of you who are of “senior” age, put away those savings into a vacation fund and you’ll be surprised at how it’ll grow within a few months. Wishing you all a safe and fun summer!

 

 

Garage Organization, and Now It Begins…

Natalie Weinstein is President of Natalie Weinstein Design Associates, The Natalie Weinstein Home Decorating Club and Uniquely Natalie, a quality consignment boutique. For inquiries call: 
631-862-6198.

    Usually at this time of year, I would write about being “house ready” or “backyard ready” for company this summer. However, now let’s talk about the garage – the place where rarely a car is parked.  It is that nether region that is too gross to conquer– where everything  eventually turns up after you need it, or you’ve bought more of it. 
    It should be so easy to declutter and organize this space.  Just open the garage door(s), put everything out on the driveway (moving your car(s) first, of course), and put only 20% back of what you really need!  So, here’s a good way to get there:
    • Get garbage pails or bags ready for discards right after your stuff hits the pavement.
    • Now start sorting into groups – garden tools, automotive, sports equipment (by category), winter weather supplies, pool supplies, “work bench” tools, house supplies (i.e. light bulbs, batteries, cleaning supplies, holiday decorations, etc.) and whatever else your garage has been designated to hold.
    • Utilize walls with slat board or hanging units for additional storage, easy access and viewing. If you’ve recently installed a new kitchen, old kitchen cabinets can be good repositories for items if they can be reused or rehung.  (Be sure to label on the outside what’s inside.)
    • Add a ceiling bike rack and other storage devices so you can clear the floor and leave space for your car.
    Note: Since it is now summer, you might want to have a “goodie bag” ready to travel in your car with sports equipment or games for a picnic or outdoor family get together. (Do the same in the garage for backyard parties.)
    In short, if you organize now the remainder of your summer will be more enjoyable without the stress of looking for your “stuff” when you need it – and what a great feeling to walk into a cleaned and organized garage!  If you’re really friendly with your neighbors, why not ask everyone to have a garage cleaning party all on the same day with the added bonus of a “finally finished” block party at the end – when you’ve finally found your lawn chairs.
    Maybe a garage clean-out could actually be FUN – or not.  But once it’s done, it will be worth it.  Who knows, maybe it will even spur you to do the same for your attic, basement, shed, or closet – OK– now I’ve gone too far.  But, if you love your garage, great things really might happen once it has been cleaned and organized!

 

La Villini Restaurant – Chef Frank Catania

 

La Villini Restaurant
288 Larkfield Rd. • East Northport
631-261-6344
www.lavillini.com

    Upon graduating from Johnson & Wales Culinary 
Institute in 1987, Frank was chosen for a paid internship where he worked for three months at Harrah’s Hotel in Lake Tahoe.  After completing his internship he returned to Long Island where he worked in various restaurants.  He opened his first restaurant, La Villini in 2005. 
Almost a decade later, Frank has become a successful restaurantaur. It is not uncommon for Mr. Catania to surprise his patrons with new and unique dishes. La Villini remains to be a popular restaurant in East Northport and is pleased to share with you his passion for making desserts with his popular Tiramisu Cake recipe.

 

Tiramisu Cake

 

Ingredients:
2 cups- Mascarpone cheese
1 cup + 4oz- Heavy cream
10 oz- Dry Marsala wine
2 cups + 3 tbs- Sugar
1 tsp- vanilla extract
1 cup- Cocoa powder
1 tsp- Ground cinnamon 
2 packages- Lady Fingers
2 cups- Warm espresso
Preparation:

    In a mixing bowl, combine Mascarpone with 2 cups of sugar, Marsala wine, 1 cup of heavy cream and vanilla extract.  Whip combined ingredients until stiff peaks form and set aside. 
    In a separate bowl, combine espresso, remaining sugar and heavy cream.  Quickly soak Lady Fingers in warm espresso mixture and transfer to layer 
bottom of 9-inch springform pan. 
    With spatula or pastry comb, layer one inch of cream mixture over Lady Fingers evenly.  Sprinkle cocoa powder over layer of cream.  Form another layer with Lady Fingers followed by cream mixture.  Sprinkle cinnamon and more cocoa powder to finish cake.  When l
ayering is complete, refrigerate cake for at least one hour before removing ring from pan. 
    For decoration, line edges of cake with Lady Fingers and serve.

 

Summer Festivals

Katherine Andrianas

Now that summer is in full swing, look for fun ways to enjoy the warm weather. Whether you head east or west, there is always something happening on Long Island this time of year. So, to help plan out your weekends, we’ve found some popular events you won’t want to miss!

The Long Island 
Summer Festival
313 Smith Haven Mall, Lake Grove
July 12th 5:00PM-11:00PM
July 13th 2:00PM-11:00PM
Whether you’re looking for somewhere to go for
date night, family fun or with friends, here’s the
place.  As a destination for hundreds of vendors,
diverse food and tons of carnival rides, it attracts people from all over. This two-day event will be quite unlike any other you’ve ever attended, mostly because it’s the only one on Long Island to offer hot air balloon rides. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit 
longislandsummerfestival.com.

Great South Bay 
Music Festival
Shorefront Park, Patchogue
July 18th-July 21st
Long Islands largest running music and cultural
event is back for the 13th year. Situated along the
Great South Bay will be numerous beer and wine
gardens, a diverse food court along with 
handmade arts and crafts. Featuring approximately 60 performers (legends and local upcoming artists) they’ll have all types of music: classic rock, jazz, country, folk, zydeco, funk, American and more! 

Sweet Corn 
Festival
Harbes Family Farm
715 Sound Avenue, Mattituck
July 20th-July 21st  10:00AM-7:00PM        

It’s the season to celebrate the 30th anniversary of Harbes Family Farm with their own super sweet corn. This fun-filled, free roasted corn eating contest is one of the most popular summer competitions at Harbes. They’ll have live music in the courtyard/picnic area from 1:00PM-5:00PM and a wine bar where you can try tastings of their award winning wines. Coming with kids? Let them explore the 8-acre Barnyard Adventure. 

Summer RosÉ & 
Bubbly Fest
RGNY
6025 Sound Avenue, Riverhead
July 20th  12:00PM-7:00PM
Celebrate the season by dressing to impress on the
picturesque grounds of RGNY (formerly Martha Clara). The day will include sampling from more than a dozen of the most refreshing rosés and sparkling wines. Then, to pair nicely with your drink, they’ll have samples of farm to table cheeses, charcuterie and craft foods from local makers. So, come dance on the lawn to music, take cute pictures, and get face-to-face interaction with the winemakers themselves.

 

Alive on 25 – Riverhead
July 18th, August 1st, August 15th
Alive after five –
Patchogue
July 11th, July 25th, August 8th
What’s better than a free summer street fair?  
On alternating Thursday’s, each will feature
stages of live music, entertainment, more than 
60 craft/retail vendors, over a dozen food trucks,
children's activities and more. As a place for
surrounding communities to come together, it’s great for meeting up with friends after work or bringing the family. (August 22nd rain date scheduled for both locations.) 

Taste of Montauk
Gurney's Montauk
290 Old Montauk Highway
July 28th 6:00PM-9:00PM
This year, the Montauk Chamber of Commerce will be hosting their 7th annual Taste of Montauk on the Great Lawn of Gurney’s Star Island. Featuring 
locally produced beer and wine, as well as delicious culinary bites from some of Montauk’s best dining spots- it’s worth heading out east for.

 

The Long Island 
Craft Classic
1 Heckscher State Parkway
August 10th General Admission 2:00PM-5:30PM
This is the most anticipated beer, wine, cider and
barbecue event of the summer. They’ll have over
100 beers from the best local, national and 
international craft breweries. For $55 dollars 
($75 for VIP), guests get to enjoy good music and 
drink sampling, along with your choice of a 
barbecue sandwich and side prepared by event
caterer, Bobbique. To purchase tickets or learn
about the perks of VIP, visit licraftclassic.com/tickets.

Water Lantern Festival
North Hempstead Beach Park
175 West Shore Rd., Port Washington
August 10th  5:00PM-10:00PM
Voted #1 Best Cultural Festival by USA TODAY, this floating lantern event is a magical night worth attending. Taking place in thirty-four         different cities, it’s a movement committed to bringing people together through thousands of lanterns. Launched with love, hope, happiness, healing and peace, each unique lantern joins with others to reflect upon the water. And, while everyone contributes in lighting the water, they’ll have food trucks, games, activities, vendors and music. 

 

 

What’s the secret to being happy every day?

Connie Henriquez H.H.C. is a Teen Life Coach who teaches 
kids & teens how to overcome anxiety, self-doubt and improve 
their self-esteem. For more information, call (516) 340-0378 
or check out her website at startlovinglife.com

  There is only one thing to rely on for happiness in your life: The power of your mind.

    Many people tend to complain and focus on their problems without realizing that the origin stems from their own mind and thoughts. As a result, negative people usually have the worst luck, nothing ever goes their way, or they are always sick and suffering from some physical ailment (i.e. neck ache, back ache, etc.). 

 How you think and feel is how the world reflects back to you. That’s why happy, positive people typically have good luck and good health – the best combination.
    Consider the people you know. Are they happy, positive and loving life?  Or, are they cranky, stressed and just getting by in life? Whether good or bad, your thoughts will reflect how 
you feel. It is not a coincidence!  
    So, knowing this information, why do many people continue to complain and focus on all the negativity around them?  They do not believe they have the power to improve their life one thought at a time.  However, the great news is… YOU have the power! And, it’s easier than you think.
    First and foremost is becoming more aware of how you think and speak. For example, when you wake up, you can choose to be excited and anticipate a great day ahead. Or, you can dread getting out of bed and focus on all the reasons you don’t want to go to work. Which will result in you having a great day?
    Another example: when you get to work, you can greet your co-workers in a happy mood and spread positive vibes. Or, you can show up with negativity, recap how you couldn’t sleep and complain about whether it’s 5pm yet. Which will result in you having a great day?
    Last but not least, you can reflect on all the postitivity that occured throughout your day. Thoughts such as: I’m happy I got to work on time; Sally and I had a great laugh about that work project; lunch was good today. Or, you can focus on what went wrong: This was the longest day ever; Sally is so annoying; My boss has no clue; I can’t stand this job. Which will result in you having a great evening?
    I’m sure by now you’ve come to the conclusion that people who are deliberately positive and  opportunistic will find happiness. However, that is not to say bad things will never happen. There will be days that are not the best. Of course, that’s  life. But, you do have a choice on what you give your attention to and what you choose to speak about.
    So, how can YOU start thinking differently today? Imagine your life as you want it be, as opposed to how it’s been. Keep negativity away and enforce positive thoughts and vibes; good fortune will follow. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain. Just give it a try. 

 

Summer 2019 Shoe Trends

Rachael Severino is a school senior at Sachem North High School in Sachem School District. She has penned short stories, poetry and is developing an impressive body of work.

There are plenty of sweet and sexy shoes 
for you to find this summer.

The incoming warm months are the best excuse to go shoe shopping. New sandal and flip-flop trends, both innovative and recycled, are back on the shelves and runway for this summer. 

An oldy, but a goody, is back and that’s the ‘90s minimalist sandal. These shoes have simple, thin straps that can wrap over the top of your foot or around your ankle. This sandal adds a delicate touch to any summer dress. 

A relaxed shoe that goes with everything–Slides. Worn by  both men and women, these are flat slip-on sandals that often have one or two thick straps over the top of the foot. To make a statement; opt for  a pair that consists of patterns or embellishments. These shoes are simple, yet stylish–a great match for every casual outfit in your summer wardrobe. 

Another practical shoe you’ll see this season is the thick-strapped sandal. These sandals come flat or with a heel and have massive straps(often leather). Dressed up or down, they’ll make a great addition to your closet this summer.   

Little white sneakers are great for a day of walking, be it in the city or the park. Another gender-neutral shoe, these go with any outfit and will keep your feet cool and at ease all day long.
Wedge sandals, especially the high ones, seem to be popular every summer and this year is no exception. They’re more comfortable than typical heels and perfect for summer; also allowing their wearers to show off a cute pedicure. 

For more of a statement piece, try platform sandals. This summer, these shoes draw inspiration from traditional Japanese Zori and Geta sandals. They offer a few extra inches and come in woven and wooden materials.  

Minimal “floss” heels are sandals that have straps so thin they are barely there. These shoes typically have kitten heels and come in an array of colors. Pair it with a sundress for happy hour, or suit for the office; these versatile shoes dress up any ensemble you put together.    

If you are looking for a more dramatic option in comparison to “floss” heels, try wedge espadrilles. A high wedge with ballerina-style straps that wrap up and around the calf create a tasteful and sweet look to your summer wardrobe. 

For a formal option, sling-back shoes are a more work-friendly  option. They have an open back that prevent your feet from overheating, but cover your toes, making them the perfect attire for the office.

 

Natural Medicine For Your Largest Organ

Dr. Dawn Siglain is a Naturopathic 
Doctor, Licensed Acupuncturist, & Reiki 
Practitioner at Inner Source Health in Long Island and NYC. To learn more please visit www.innersourcehealth.com or call 631.421.1848 for a FREE 15 minute consultation.

    When it comes to skincare, I not only consider the ingredients I put on my body– I also take into consideration the fact that these ingredients are going into my body. Our skin is our largest organ and absorbs everything that graces its surface. I use only organic coconut oil and extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) as my facial and body moisturizer. Opt for a glass jar packaging over plastic to avoid the toxic load and chemical leaching that occurs with plastics.   
    EVOO is unrefined, which means it contains the natural vitamins and minerals from the olives.  I promise that you will not smell like a salad! It’s light-weight and absorbs into your skin pretty quickly. Some companies are diluting olive oil with other low-quality oils; so make sure to research your options and get a good quality one.  Choose a brand bottled in dark glass, so that light does not turn the oil rancid. Heat also turns EVOO–store it in a cool and dry area away from direct sunlight. Oxygen exposure is another factor to consider with EVOO.  Purchase smaller bottles to limit oxidation and make sure to cap it tightly after each use.  EVOO starts turning once it’s opened and can go bad as quickly as one to three months after it has been opened.
    As for makeup, I reference (Environmental Working Group)  www.EWG.org for the latest up-to-date research on toxic load. You can search via product name or  by ingredient which makes it a very valuable resource! I make sure any makeup I use is EWG verified.  
    Don’t forget to use EWG verified sunscreen too. More importantly, eat your greens and make good food choices that are full of antioxidants to protect your cells. Be sure to wear eye protection all year round to keep the delicate skin around your eyes and eyelids safe from the UV rays. Lastly, drink half of your body weight (in ounces) of filtered water every day to keep your skin hydrated and supple. Stay tuned for my next article highlighting my favorite beauty tip!        

 

Side Kicks…for the Grill

Denise Gianatasio is a Northport Village resident, freelance writer and licensed agent at Signature Premier Properties in Northport. Please feel free to contact her for any advice you may need at dishinwithdenise@yahoo.com.

    Tis’ the season to celebrate dad with some grilling and chilling! Our local farm stands and farmers markets are proudly displaying the earth’s finest–boasting with vibrant colors, tastes and varieties. Support your local growers and add health and well-being to your Father’s Day BBQ this year. Leave those cans on the shelf for now. Any fresh produce you find will make for a great side “kick” to any grilled meal you make. 
    First, I stopped at the German butcher for delicious hot dogs and then the farm stand. My first thought–warm German potato salad. This salad goes well with anything you grill… The bacon gives it a boost of flavor especially when combined with a vinegar and sugar dressing. It creates the perfect salty, slightly sweet, tangy flavor. 
    Oh! For the other side “kicks,” I decided on a colorful and delicious baby cucumber and heirloom tomato salad with oil and vinegar. And of course, corn on the cob–in season now. Steam the corn in a ½ pot of boiling water, add a cup of milk and ½ stick of butter. (Delicious, when sprinkled with salt and pepper.) 
    Another goody I scooped up–string beans. They looked fresh; I steamed and mixed them with my homemade tomato sauce, then sprinkled grated cheese. Yummy! Kick things up this father’s day with fresh cold and warm sides. Happy Grillin’ and Happy Father’s Day!  xoxo Denise

German Potato Salad

    6-8    Yukon Gold or Red skinned potatoes (peeled and chopped into 1” pieces)
    6         Thick-cut Bacon slices
    3        Shallots-chopped
    1T      White wine vinegar
    2T      Water
    1tsp     Salt
    1tsp  Sugar      
         Fresh ground black pepper     
         Parsley & Chives-chopped             
    Place potatoes into a pot covered with 2” water. Boil for 10 minutes-until tender. Drain and cool.
    In a skillet, panfry bacon until crisp. Remove from pan and place on paper towels.  When cool, chop or crumble.
    Place shallots into bacon greased pan; sauté until soft and golden. Add vinegar, water, salt, sugar and black pepper (to taste); stir mixture until it comes to a simmer. 
    Combine mixture with potatoes; add chopped parsley and chives (to taste). Toss and top with bacon. Serve warm.

 

Steakhouses for Dad

Joanna Adduci is a Northport resident, currently working as a Marketing & Social Media Specialist. Joanna can be reached by email at LISAVORYEATS@gmail.com. 

    As a self-proclaimed carnivore, there is nothing I love more than a good steak. Crispy seared on the outside, medium rare on the inside – simple, tasty, hearty. I’ve been perfecting my list of Long Island steakhouses for years now, constantly adding and removing based on frequented visits with friends and family. For Father’s Day, there is nothing quite as wonderful as taking dad to a swanky steakhouse and going all out – wine, sides, steak, desserts – the works. My safe six include: 2 Spring, Rothmann’s Steakhouse, Bryant & Cooper, Vintage Steakhouse, IMC Imperial Meat Company and of course, Peter Luger Steak House. I’ve had unforgettable beef-induced experiences at each of these establishments and appreciate them for unique reasons, each offering something distinctive.
     2 ­­Spring is “an American Brasserie highlighting fresh seafood, premium farm-to-table meats, and a deep wine list”. It is cozy and has some of my favorite starters (and cocktails) on Long Island. Begin your meal with the Fried Chicken, served with Cucumber, Yuzu & Togarashi. If you’re coming in just for your steak-fix, order their signature 14oz Brandt New York Strip served with an onion ring and herbs. Spoiler alert: You may never think of steak the same way again. Executive Chef Jesse Schenker, Chef Julian Rios & Chef Juan Meza are some of my newfound culinary heroes.
     Rothmann’s Steakhouse, Bryant & Cooper, Vintage Steakhouse and IMC Imperial Meat Company are all local, reputable go-tos. Signature steakhouse feel, awesome sides & cocktails, a good opportunity to skip the casual clothes and dress up – I recommend all of these awesome spots. At Rothmann’s, I opt for the Chas Kobe Burger with Fois Gras & Brie or the Prime Rib. At Bryant & Cooper, the Tomato & Burrata Salad and the Filet Cajun Style. When visiting Vintage Steakhouse, order the Tomahawk & the Lobster Mac and Cheese. (Have dessert here too!) IMC Imperial Meat Company offers a chic atmosphere and enormous desserts. You can’t go wrong with the New York Strip Steak or Filet. (Great brunch and happy hour options too!)
     Last but not least, Peter Luger’s Steakhouse; an iconic, must-try and New York to the core. Splurge – order the expensive wine, the sides (my picks are the sizzling bacon, creamed spinach, and French fries), plus the desserts. Go all out. This place is special, and it’s no wonder it’s a New York foodie landmark. Do yourself a favor and order the steak for two, or three, or four (depending on your party size). No words can do justice to this juicy, perfectly cooked piece of meat – you just have to try it for yourself. If you’re not in the mood for steak, their burger is legendary. (Thank me later.) They offer locations in Great Neck, and the iconic Williamsburg, Brooklyn on Broadway.
     This Father’s Day treat dad to something special and visit one of my recommended steak houses. He deserves it.