A Time for Feasting

A Visit to the Castelli Romani
Romans on holiday always seem to make it to the Alban Hills, also known as the Castelli Romani for an experience of relaxation and for the finest experience of dining. The Colli Albani towns produce some of Italy's most popular white wines, and almost anywhere you go you'll see signs indicating cantina, enoteca or osteria. This is where the Pope has his summer residence at Castel Gondolfo, near Albano where St. Gaspar had one of his first Mission Houses. When it is the time for feasting, the Rectory at St. Edward takes on traditional Gasparian hospitality and the table is set for the guests with the finest of wines and the best of Italian cooking. Often using the herbs and spices from my own garden, I recreate some of my favorite Italian experiences for family and friends.

This week with the feast of St. Gaspar and the anniversary of ordination, it was time for feasting. The Party time concludes with the great Parish Annual Feast tonight.

Here is what I prepared for family and friends last Thursday for my anniversary. The Tomatoes and Basil came fresh from the garden that day along with the Arugula, the Rosemary and a variety of other herbs and spices.

Antipasto
Roederer Estate Brut, Anderson Valley

Pastina in brodo
Honig 2005 Sauvignon Blanc, Napa Valley

Farfalle con Pomodori e Basilico
Santa Cristina 2004 Sangiovese, Toscana

Agnello con aglio, Garlic Crusted Roast Leg of Lamb
Fagiolini Rosmarino
garlic red wine gravy
Rosenblum, 2003 Syrah, Sonoma County, Hillside Vineyards

Insalata Caprese
Arugula con aglio Vinaigrette

frutta e formaggio
Brie, Pt. Reyes Station; Fiore Saldo, Italy; Garrotxa, Spain
Rosenblum,2004 Late Harvest Zinfandel, California