Stuff I Love About the Olympics

I am not generally a sports-watcher. I might tune in when the home team (in my case, the Red Sox, Celtics, Patriots, or Bruins) is in whatever finals race applies, and I might pay attention for a few minutes if someone in the house is watching sports and acting excited, but I am NOT, by any means, a "sports fan."

But I love the Olympics. Maybe it's that it's only every four years. Maybe it's the exotic locations. Maybe it's the oddball sports that you never see otherwise. Maybe it's the personal, human interest stories they throw in. Maybe it's the spirit of international and national unity. Whatever it is, every four years, you will find me watching sports I have never seen and do not understand, cheering for people I've never heard of. 

I may not be able to tell you exactly WHY I love the Olympics, but I can tell you WHAT I love about the Olympics. It's this:

1) The Spectacle of the Opening Ceremony

The opening ceremonies are designed to highlight the host country: to celebrate its culture and history. They often draw on references that mystify the rest of the world, but that their own nation understands. They are often, in a word, weird. I remember the opening ceremonies in 1994 in Lillehammer, Norway, featuring odd little troll-like creatures popping out from holes and nooks and peeking around in a rather disturbing fashion. Or London in 2012, when "Queen Elizabeth" and "James Bond" (okay, their stunt doubles) plummeted into the stadium with Union Jack parachutes. Paris was added to the "weird" list in 2024 with its bubble-gum-pink giant paper-mache-headed people, its wall of beheaded Marie Antoinettes, and its drag queens depicting a bacchanal celebration. 

Sometimes they're not intentionally weird, but something goes wrong, like the fifth Olympic ring that refused to open in Sochi in 2014. 

Or the "Great Dove Calamity" in Seoul in 1988, when the doves representing peace were released but some of them settled on the torch instead of gracefully flying around the arena, and were then burned alive when the torch was lit. Or the awkwardness in Vancouver in 2010 when four athletes were intended to light the torch simultaneously, but only 3 of the 4 columns raised, leaving one of the four athletes standing around with nothing to light. 

But amidst the weirdness is incredible beauty and celebration of humanity. Like the archer lighting the torch in Barcelona in 1992. Or Muhammad Ali lighting it in Atlanta in 1996. The 2008 drummers in Beijing in 2008. The pioneers dancing to Copland's "Rodeo" in Salt Lake in 2002. Sochi's gorgeous lighted troika pulling the sun in 2014. 

2) The National Team Uniforms

The outfits worn by each country as they make their grand entrance during the opening ceremony are an opportunity to show off both team and national pride. The US team is often obnoxiously 'Murrican in cowboy looks (such as Lake Placid in 1980 and Sarajevo in 1984) and more red, white, and blue than the flag itself (such as Sochi 2014, Vancouver in 2010, and Rio in 2016). For some reason, the Americans also favor every type of hat under the sun: straw (Rome 1960), knit beanies (Innsbruck 1976, Vancouver 2010, Beijing 2022), cowboy hats (Nagano 1998, in addition to Lake Placid and Sarajevo), fedoras (Albertville 1992), tams and berets (Salt Lake 2002, London 2012), even scally caps (Athens 2004, Turin 2006, Beijing 2008). 

To be fair, many other nations also exhibit national pride in their heritage with details of cultural significance from traditional dress. Some countries opt for almost complete traditional looks, or at least outfits based very closely on traditional dress (Kenya in Tokyo 2021, India in London 2012, Cameroon in London 2012). Many tropical and island nations favor vivid colors, such as Barbados (Paris 2024), Vanuatu (Tokyo 2021), and Mexico (London 2012).

Of course, there are always a few duds that make you wonder what the designer was thinking:  Australia's Sydney 2000 mishmash of a yellow check blouse, dark red zippered jacket, and loden skirt topped with a cross-body bag with a wide strap that looked like a shiny gray seatbelt; Canada's Barcelona 1992 ensemble that paired a yellow t-shirt with full shorts and matching overshirt in an obnoxiously busy multi-colored print (although the accompanying white straw hat was fantastic); and the Hungarian women's Beijing 2008 dresses and hats, which were supposed to be a red-on-white floral print but tended to look more like splotches of blood. 

Sweden's "Where's Waldo?" look from London 2012

3) The Commentators

Commentator Rupert Cox, who got me enjoying rugby

As a non-sports-fan, I rely on the commentators to explain to me in layman's terms how the various sports are scored, what the rules are, what I'm seeing at the moment, etc. An enthusiastic commentator who is able to explain what's happening even while losing their mind over something unusual or exciting that's going on is worth their weight in gold. Case in point: Rupert Cox, the Australian commentator for the rugby match in Paris 2024, had me on the edge of my seat despite not even knowing which two teams were playing or whether the teams were striving for a "goal," "basket," "wicket," or "googly." (Spoiler: It's a "try.") Because it was "SUDDEN DITH!!" (A charming accent is always a plus. As is a fabulous name like "Rowdy Gaines" or "Elfie Schlagel".) 

Rugby, epee and sabre, canoeing and kayaking, water polo, handball, judo, equestrian - all events I wouldn't generally choose to watch, but which I will both watch and enjoy, given the right commentator. 

4) The Underdogs

In my mind, there are two types of underdogs: the ones who come in as underdogs, knowing that they're probably not in contention for a medal, but striving to reach their personal best; and the athletes who might or might not be on the cusp of medal contention who step in at the last minute for an injured or ill teammate, or who just step up to the plate, and absolutely kill it. 

Paris 2024 has a prime example of the latter in Steven "the Nerd" Nedoroscik, aka "Pommel Horse Guy", aka "Clark Kent", the bespectacled (I think I'm legally required to include that as part of his title) US gymnast who specializes in - surprise! - the pommel horse. 

Nedoroscik was the last among his teammates to perform during the men's team competition. And boy, did he ever kill it, scoring high enough to bring the team a bronze medal, the first men's gymnastics team Olympic medal since 2008. The fact that he is charming, adorable, and absolutely embraces his own nerdiness is simply the icing on the underdog cake. 

5) The Underqualified Competitors

I suppose you could consider this a subclass of the underdog: an under-under-underdog, if you will. Every now and then, we see a competitor who, frankly, doesn't belong at the Olympics. They're outclassed, out-trained, out-funded, and often out-talented by the other competitors. But they have heart and drive and determination that is exhilarating to watch - in addition to being a good comparison for how unbelievably phenomenal the other competitors are. 

Some of the most well-known of these have been Michael David Edwards, aka "Eddie the Eagle", a ski jumper from England who competed in Calgary in 1988; and the Jamaican bobsled team at the same games, whose story was later made into the movie Cool Runnings. Lesser-known entrants in this category include Eric Moussambani, aka "Eric the Eel", a swimmer from Equatorial Guinea who swam the slowest 100-meter swim in Olympic history in Sydney in 2000; or Liz Swaney, an American halfpipe competitor who competed for Hungary in PyeongChang in 2018, who basically did a run down the hill without attempting any "tricks" other than gentle 180s at the sides of the pipe. 

6) The Random Memorable Moments

A huge event like the Olympics is bound to have some unexpected, interesting, funny, or poignant moments.  The most memorable of those unexpected moments in Paris - thus far - has to be the appearance of "Bob the Swim Cap Diver Guy."

In case you missed it, prior to a swimming race, officials noticed an object at the bottom of the pool, which turned out to be a swim cap that had fallen in and sunk. They needed to clear it before the next race could begin, so enter Bob, one of the lifeguards on duty at the venue. He marched out with his dad bod and vivid floral Speedo on display, dived in, and retrieved the cap so the Games could continue. He chose to remain anonymous, but he's one of my favorite stars of this Olympics. 

Past Memorable Moments include Kerri Strug vaulting on a nearly-broken ankle in Atlanta in 1996, the London 2012 US swim team's lip dub of "Call Me Maybe", Greg Louganis hitting his head on the diving board during the 3m springboard in Seoul in 1988 (and coming back to win that gold medal anyway, plus another gold in the 10m platform), and in Los Angeles in 1984 when Swiss marathoner Gabriela Anderson-Schiess missed a water station and began to stagger from dehdration in the heat near the finish line, but waved off assistance from medical personnel so she could finish the race without being disqualified, literally collapsing as the crossed the line. All unexpected and truly memorable moments, for good or ill. 

7) The Awesome Human Interest Stories

Human interest is at the heart of the Olympics. Yes, these are all amazing athletes who have worked unbelievably hard for years to get where they've gotten. But there are always a few who have had a little more difficult path to their Olympic games, whether it's injuries, finances, family issues, or whatever. I love hearing the stories that make the athletes feel just a little more real, a little more like one of us. 

Stories from past Olympics that stand out in my mind include Rulon Gardner, an American wrestler who struggled with both a learning disability and physical recovery from a snowmobile accident and who defeated the long-undefeated, 3-time gold medalist, Soviet great Aleksandr Karelin; Wilma Rudolph, who overcame polio at age 12 and won three Olympic gold medals for running in Rome in 1960, only 8 years later. In Rio 2016, after the British government cut funding for the country's BMX racing team, Bethany Shriever got herself to the Olympics using crowdfunding and getting a part-time job while training full time, winning a gold medal. Perhaps my favorite human interest story from the Olympics is from Tokyo in 2020, when two high-jumpers, Mutaz Essa Barshim of Qatar and Gianmarco Tamberi of Italy, tied for gold and were offered a "jump off" to determine the winner. But instead, the two agreed to share the gold medal. 

8) The Unexpected Wins - and Losses

Going into the Olympics, there are always certain athletes who it is assumed will come home with a medal, as well as a world or at least Olympic record. Some of those will fulfill those assumptions; others will unexpectedly crash and burn. And occasionally, a dark horse athlete will suddenly burst out of the crowd and land on the medal stand. 

As an American, my first thought for this category is, of course, the famous "Miracle on Ice" in Lake Placid in 1980 when the US hockey team, composed of talented amateurs, took on the professional Soviet team, which had won four gold medals, and WON. "Do you believe in miracles?", indeed. 

But there are plenty of other stories like that one. In Tokyo in 2020, a Tunisian swimmer named Ahmed Hafnaoui barely qualified for the 400m freestyle, but when the time for the "real" race came, Hafnaoui outswam the rest of the field for the gold medal. In PyeongChang in 2018, Czech skier Ester Ledecka borrowed a pair of skis and took the gold medal in the Alpine Super-G away from favored contender Anna Veith. A ways further back, in Tokyo in 1964, an unknown American runner named Billy Mills dogged the frontrunners throughout the 10,000m race, then put on an incredible burst of speed at the end to claim the gold medal.  

And then there are the favored athletes who just don't quite make the grade when it comes to the big dance. The example that jumps to my mind is one where one of the most lauded athletes didn't even make it to the Games: In 1992, decathletes Dan O'Brien and Dave Johnson starred together in a series of Reebok commercials leading up to the Olympics. But world champion O'Brien failed to make the Olympic team, and then Johnson developed a stress fracture in his foot, still competing in Barcelona, but settling for bronze instead the anticipated gold. In Beijing in 2008, Lolo Jones was favored to win the 100m hurdles, but fell back to seventh place after hitting the second-to-last hurdle. The gold medalist was her teammate Dawn Harper, who had barely qualified for the team. 

9) The Glamour Shots of the Venues

Many of the venues are built specifically for the Olympic Games, and many are built to be beautiful as well as functional. 

The "Bird's Nest" stadium in Beijing, 2008

The "Water Cube" National Aquatics Center, Beijing 2008

Kallimarmaro, the 4th-century stadium in Athens used during the first 
modern Olympics in 1896 and again in 2004

The retractable roof of the Sydney 2000 Stadium Australia

The Dunc Gray Velodrome, Sydney 2000

The Berlin Olympic Stadium, Berlin 1936

Maracana Stadium, Rio 2016

Estadi Olimpic, Lluis Companys, Barcelona 1992

Iceberg Skating Palace, Sochi 2014

10) The Closing Ceremony

Not much of note happens during the closing ceremonies; there is usually a "sneak peek" at the next country to host, and someone from the IOC says a few words, blah blah blah. But what I love is the flood of athletes from all the nations entering together, no divisions by country or even sport,  just a bunch of athletes who have just experienced one of the most exhilarating moments of their lives, celebrating their own and each others' achievements. That, to me, is the truest spirit of the Games. 

  

Six-Month Weight Loss Followup

If you are a regular reader of my blog (or my Facebook page), you are aware that I began a serious weight loss journey this past January. My goal was to get down from my initial weight of just around 180 pounds to the 148 pounds that I weighed for a number of years after my kids were born, and possibly even down to the 138 pounds that I weighed throughout my 30s. As of April, I had reached the 148-pound mark and was working on figuring out a maintenance diet plan, and possibly continuing to lose a few more pounds, with the aim of getting down to 138 pounds. 

I've now spent about 3 months on my maintenance/"creep down" diet plan, and I'm pleased to say that my weight has, indeed, continued to slowly creep down. My current weight is 141 pounds, and I'm confident that over the next few months, I'll be able to reach my secondary goal of 138 pounds - and, more importantly, maintain that weight for the long term. 

I think that the most important parts of my maintenance plan are that I've continued to write down everything I eat, and that I still record my weight daily. Both of those steps help me to see my overall eating pattern and quickly notice if either my weight or my eating choices are falling back into unhealthy territory. My weight did jump up a few pounds right away when I began a "maintenance" diet, but because of my tracking, I was able to revise my habits very quickly, and continue a slow but (generally) steady downward trend. 

It's nice to know that this trend can withstand a few days of overindulgence (the recent bump up was the result of a family wedding and multiple related celebrations, during which I allowed myself alcohol, rich foods, and desserts that I would otherwise have skipped). It would be easy to be frustrated by those minor upticks, but because I can see my long-term pattern, I know that a few added pounds can be quickly counteracted with discipline and determination. 

My continued rewards are still improved health on multiple fronts, increased physical stamina, and simply looking and feeling better in general. And that is the best motivation of all!

Summer Dishes Featuring Fresh Herbs

One of my favorite parts of summer is my garden, and one of my favorite parts of my garden is the fresh herbs. Even if you don't have room for an outdoor garden, herbs are easily grown indoors in pots, and even if you can't be bothered to grow your own herbs, fresh herbs are inexpensive and bountiful in your local supermarket all summer long. But what do you use them for? Here are some of my favorite summer recipes that feature all kinds of fresh herbs.

Creamy Tortellini with Chicken

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast (or tenderloins), sliced
Salt, to taste
Paprika (or smoked paprika), to taste
1 pkg (20 oz) frozen or refrigerated cheese tortellini
3 Tbsp butter (or olive oil, or a combination)
2 tsp minced garlic
3 Tbsp flour
1 tsp onion powder
1-1/4 cup milk (whole or 2% is best)
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 (14-oz) can petite diced tomatoes, undrained
1-1/2 cups (packed) baby spinach
3 Tbsp fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
2 tsp chopped fresh oregano (or 1/2 tsp dried)
Salt and black pepper
1/2 cup shredded or grated parmesan, plus extra for serving

Heat butter (and/or olive oil) in a large frypan over high heat. Place sliced chicken in pan (do not crowd) and sprinkle with salt and paprika. Cook for several minutes, then flip and cook other side until well-browned. While chicken is cooking, prepare tortellini according to package directions, then drain and set aside. When chicken is fully cooked, remove to a plate and cover with foil to keep warm. Return pan to medium heat and add garlic, flour, and onion powder, whisking constantly. Cook for about a minute. Combine milk and cream and gradually whisk in until smooth, then allow to come to a simmer. Allow to thicken slightly, then add tomatoes, spinach, basil, oregano, and salt and pepper to taste. Reduce heat and simmer to desired thickness. Add drained tortellini and chicken, stirring to coat. Add a little milk, cream, or pasta water if needed. Serve warm with additional parmesan. 

Grilled Herbed Potatoes

 2 lbs small potatoes, scrubbed and halved or quartered (depending on size)
2 Tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
2 Tbsp fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, sage, chives, or whatever you have on hand)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish, if desired

In a large bowl, combine all ingredients except parsley, and toss well to coat. Cut 4 large pieces of heavy duty foil and place 1/4 of potatoes in the center of each. Fold into an enveloped and seal tightly. Cook on a grill at medium-high heat for 20-30 minutes, turning once. Remove from grill and open packet. Sprinkle with parsley, if desired, and serve immediately. 

Chicken Caprese Skillet

4 small boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1-1/4 tsp kosher salt, divided
1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper, divided
2 Tbsp olive oil, divided
1 small red onion, diced (about 1 cup)
4 tsp minced garlic
4 cups chopped tomatoes (or halved cherry tomatoes)
1/4 tsp dried thyme
Balsamic glaze
4 oz mozzarella pearls, or 4 oz mozzarella, cubed
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped or chiffonaded

Pound chicken breasts to about a 1/2-inch thickness between layers of plastic wrap. Sprinkle chicken with 3/4 tsp salt and1/4 tsp pepper, sprinkling both sides. In a large, heavy skillet over medium-high heat, heat 1 Tbsp oil. Add chicken breasts and allow to cook for about 4 minutes, until lightly browned. Flip and cook for 3 additional minutes, or until cooked through. Remove to a plate and cover with foil to keep warm. Add the remaining Tbsp of oil to the same pan, reduce heat to medium, swirl to coat, then add the red onion and cook until slightly softened, about 3 minutes, scraping the browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Add the garlic and cook another minute. Add tomatoes, thyme, remaining salt and pepper, and a tablespoon of balsamic glaze, increase heat back to medium-high, and cook until tomatoes begin to soften, about 2 minutes. Return chicken to pan, nestling among tomatoes, and scatter mozzarella over. Cover the pan, remove from heat, and allow to stand for several minutes, until mozzarella softens. Uncover, drizzle with balsamic glaze and sprinkle with basil leaves. Serve warm. 

Herbed Dinner Rolls

6 Tbsp butter, divided
3/4 cup milk (whole or 2%)
1/2 cup water
4-1/2 cups flour, divided
1/4 cup instant potato flakes
1 Tbsp rapid-rise yeast
1/4 cup sugar
1-1/2 tsp salt
2 tsp garlic powder
1 Tbsp fresh chopped rosemary (or 1/2 Tbsp dried) - or whatever you have on hand
3 Tbsp fresh chopped parsley (or 1-1/2 Tbsp dried), divided
1 egg, room temperature
1-2 tsp minced garlic

Place 4 Tbsp butter, milk, and water in a 2-cup glass measuring cup and microwave on high for 1 minute. Continue to heat in 10-15 second intervals until warm to the touch. In a large bowl, stir together 4 cups flour, potato flakes, yeast, sugar, salt, garlic powder, rosemary, and 2 Tbsp parsley. Using an electric mixer with dough hooks on a low setting, beat in egg, then slowly drizzle in milk mixture. When combined, increase speed to medium and mix until dough pulls away from the bowl, adding as much of the remaining 1/2 cup flour as needed. Form dough into a ball, cover with plastic wrap, and allow to rest for 10 minutes. While dough is resting, preheat oven to 180 degrees, with rack in center of oven, and spray a 9x13" pan with nonstick spray. 

Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface and roll into a 15-inch circle. Using a pizza cutter, slice dough into 12 or 16 even pieces. Fold the seams in and roll into smooth balls, then arrange in prepared pan with seams underneath. Use a pastry brush to moisten the tops of the rolls with water. Turn the oven OFF and place rolls on center oven rack and allow to rise for 20 minutes. DO NOT OPEN OVEN during rising. Remove from oven and preheat to 375, then bake for 18-22 minutes, until tops are golden. 

While rolls are baking, prepare garlic butter: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine remaining 2 Tbsp butter and minced garlic. When the butter is completely melted, add remaining 1 Tbsp parsley and a pinch of salt and stir to combine. Remove from heat and brush the tops of the rolls with garlic butter when they come out of the oven. Best served warm!

Compound Butter (Excellent on steak, fish, baked potatoes, or corn on the cob or other fresh vegetables)

1 cup salted butter, softened to room temperature
3/4 cup fresh herbs, finely chopped (any herb or combination of herbs)

Combine butter and herbs in a mixing bowl, using a hand mixer or a heavy spoon. When well combined, form into a log and seal tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate until firm, then slice and place on hot salmon, steaks, or vegetables. 

Suggestions: dill on salmon or corn on the cob; mint on lamb; rosemary and sage on chicken; rosemary, thyme, and garlic on steak; chive on baked or mashed potatoes; thyme and sage on carrots.

Lemon Ricotta Bruschetta

1 baguette
1 Tbsp olive oil
1 cup fresh ricotta
zest of 1 lemon
2 Tbsp basil leaves, shredded
honey, for drizzling

Preheat broiler. Slice baguette and lay out slices on a baking tray. Broil for about a minute until lightly toasted. Flip slices over, drizzle with olive oil, and broil other side until lightly browned. Stir lemon zest into ricotta and spread on toasted bread slices. Sprinkle with basil, then drizzle with honey. 

Apple and Whipped Feta Wheels

2 medium sweet apples (Gala, Fuji, Honeycrisp)
1/4 cup hazelnuts, chopped 
1/4 cup feta cheese
1/4 cream cheese (regular or low fat)
1 tsp lemon juice, plus extra to brush apples
1 tsp lemon zest
1 tsp honey, plus more for drizzling
fresh thyme

Toast hazelnuts in a dry skillet until lightly toasted and fragrant. Set aside to cool. Combine feta, cream cheese, 1 tsp lemon juice, lemon zest, and 1 tsp honey in a blender or using a hand mixer. Core apples and slice into 1/4-inch rounds. Brush with diluted lemon juice to prevent browning. Spread each slice with the feta mixture, then top with toasted hazelnuts, fresh thyme, and a drizzle of honey.

Cranberry Brie Bites

1 (8-oz) tube crescent roll dough
4 oz Brie
1/2 can whole berry cranberry sauce*
1/4 cup chopped pecans
rosemary sprigs

Preheat oven to 375 and lay out 24 mini muffin cup liners in a 9x13" pan. On a lightly floured board, roll out the crescent roll dough slightly, pressing together diagonal scores. Use a pizza cutter to cut into 24 squares (4x8). Press a square of dough into each muffin cup, then top with a small chunk of Brie and a small spoonful of cranberry sauce. Sprinkle with pecans and place a small sprig of rosemary on each. Bake for 15 minutes, or until dough is golden brown. 

* You can also use seedless raspberry jam, orange marmalade, or any other kind of jam or preserves. Try different herbs with different flavors!

And, of course, let's not forget how lovely herbs are in cocktails (and mocktails)!

Rosemary Bourbon Bliss

2 oz bourbon
3 oz lemonade
1/2 oz elderflower liqueur
Rosemary sprig

In a cocktail shaker of ice, combine bourbon, lemonade, and elderflower liqueur and shake well. Hold the sprig of rosemary in a flame for a few seconds, then drop into a chilled martini glass and pour cocktail over. 

Madison Avenue

1-1/2 oz light rum
3/4 oz triple sec
1/2 oz lime juice
dash orange bitters
3-4 fresh mint leaves

Place the mint leaves in a cocktail shaker and fill with ice. Add remaining ingredients and shake well. Pour into a chilled cocktail glass and garnish with additional mint leaves and/or a wedge of lime. 

Non-Alcoholic Drinks

Garnish lemonade, iced tea, or a combination with mint, basil, or thyme sprigs.

Mock Mule: Ginger beer with a splash of lime juice, garnished with a sprig of mint.

Herbed seltzer: Garnish lemon seltzer with mint or basil; lime seltzer with mint or thyme; strawberry-watermelon seltzer with mint or thyme.

 

Happy Herbing!

Easy Hot Weather Meals

The weather this week is expected to be in the 80s and 90s with plenty of humidity, so the thought of cooking anything is not exciting me. Fortunately, there are lots of great meals that are cool and satisfying, and that require minimal cooking in any way that heats up the kitchen. Here are some of my favorites!

Tomato Basil Pasta

10 oz dry pasta (fusilli, rotini, spaghetti broken into smaller pieces, etc.)
6 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves crushed garlic (or 2 tsp minced)
1 small onion, finely chopped (or about 1/3 cup frozen diced onion)
2 cups diced tomatoes (or 1 can tomatoes, undrained, and omit salt)
6 leaves fresh basil, torn or chiffonaded 
1 can chicken, drained and broken up with a fork (optional; pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is also delicious)
3 tbsp grated Parmesan
3/4 cup crumbled feta (or more, to taste)
Salt and pepper

Cook pasta as directed and drain. Combine olive oil, garlic, onion, tomatoes and basil in a small bowl; let sit at room temperature. Toss pasta with Parmesan and feta. Stir in tomato mixture; salt and pepper to taste. Top with additional Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately or chill thoroughly and serve cold.

Ina Garten's Gazpacho

1 cucumber, halved and seeded but not peeled
2 red bell peppers, cored and seeded
4 plum tomatoes
1 red onion
3 cloves garlic, minced (or 3 tsp prepared minced garlic)
3 cups (23 oz) tomato juice
1/4 cup white wine vinegar
1/4 cup olive oil
1/2 tsp kosher salt
1 tsp ground black pepper
Optional garnishes: Chopped hard-boiled eggs, avocado slices, crumbled feta, fresh herbs, croutons

Chop cucumbers, peppers, tomatoes, and onion into 1-inch cubes. In a food processor, pulse each type of vegetable separately until coarsely chopped. (Do not overprocess.) Combined the chopped vegetables in a large bowl and add garlic, tomato juice, vinegar, oil, and salt and pepper. Stir until well combined. Chill in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving (chill individual bowls, as well). Serve with desired garnish and crusty bread. 

Hearty Pasta Salad

For the salad:
24 ounces tri-color rotini pasta, uncooked
1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved (or chop larger tomatoes, such as plum or Roma)
12 ounces pepperoni, cut into chunks (or halve slices if pre-sliced)
1 red onion, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced (I use a sweet red bell pepper instead)
16 ounces mozzarella cheese, cubed
1 cup grated parmesan cheese
8 ounces olives, sliced

For the dressing:
1 ½ cups olive oil
½ cup red wine vinegar
2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
2 teaspoons garlic powder
1 ½ teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon pepper
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Cook pasta al dente, according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water. Place in large bowl. Add remaining salad ingredients and mix well. In a separate bowl, combine dressing ingredients. Pour over salad and toss to coat. Chill in refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving. If chilling overnight, allow salad to sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes and toss to redistribute dressing before serving. 

Ina Garten's Asian Grilled Salmon

1 side fresh salmon, boned but skin on (about 3 pounds)
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
3 tablespoons soy sauce
6 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 teaspoon minced garlic

Preheat grill and brush the grilling rack with oil to keep the salmon from sticking. While the grill is heating, lay the salmon skin side down on a cutting board and cut it crosswise into 4 equal pieces. Whisk together the mustard, soy sauce, olive oil, and garlic in a small bowl. Drizzle half of the marinade onto the salmon and allow it to sit at room temperature for 10 minutes. 

Place the salmon skin side down on the hot grill; discard the excess marinade from the fish (NOT the reserved, unused half). Grill for 4 to 5 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fish. Turn carefully with a wide spatula and grill for another 4 to 5 minutes. The salmon will be slightly raw in the center, but will keep cooking as it sits.

Transfer the fish to a flat plate, skin side down, and spoon the reserved marinade on top. Allow the fish to rest for 10 minutes. Remove the skin and serve warm, at room temperature, or chilled. 

Chicken Taco Salad

2 whole boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 envelope taco seasoning
1/4 cup vegetable oil
2 Tablespoons butter
3/4 cups ranch dressing
1/4 cup salsa
3 Tablespoons finely minced cilantro (optional)
1 head Romaine, shredded thin
3 whole Roma tomatoes, diced
1/2 cup grated cheese
Black olives
2 ears corn, shucked (or 1 generous cup frozen corn, thawed)
2 whole avocados, diced
3 whole green onions, sliced
1 can black beans, drained
1/2 cup cilantro leaves (optional)
Tortilla chips, crushed slightly

Put chicken breasts and taco seasoning in Ziploc bag and shake to coat. Heat oil and butter in a skillet over medium to medium-high heat. Cook chicken on both sides till golden brown and cooked in the middle. Set aside skillet (unwashed) for corn. Slice chicken into cubes; toss to coat with seasoning. 

Mix together ranch dressing and salsa. Adjust balance to taste. Stir in minced cilantro, if desired.

Roll corn in skillet grease and grill (or cook in skillet) till nicely colored. If using ears of corn, slice off kernels with a sharp knife. 

Build the salad in a large bowl by layering lettuce, chicken, tomatoes, olives, black beans, cheese, corn, avocado, cilantro, green onion, chips, and dressing.

New England Fish Chowder

1 pound sliced bacon
1 large onion, chopped (or 3/4-1 cup frozen diced onion)
5 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
1 1/2 pounds cod or haddock fillets, cut into 1 inch cubes
1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk
1/2 cup whole milk
2 tablespoons butter
salt and pepper to taste

Place bacon strips in a large stockpot over medium-high heat. Cook until crisp, then remove to paper towels to drain. Drain grease from the pot, reserving about 1 tablespoon. Set heat to medium, and fry onions in the reserved bacon grease until tender, about 5 minutes.

Add potatoes, and fill pot with just enough water to cover them. Bring to a boil, then cook until potatoes are almost tender, about 5 minutes. Add fish pieces, evaporated milk, whole milk, and butter. Bring to a boil, then simmer over low heat for 30 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle into bowls, and top with crumbled bacon pieces.

Classic Lobster Rolls

½ cup mayonnaise
2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
2 tsp fresh herbs (parsley and/or dill), chopped
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
¼ cup minced celery
1 lb cooked lobster meat, roughly chopped 
2 Tbsp butter, softened
4 hot dog buns, top sliced
1½ Tbsp fresh chives, chopped
4 lettuce leaves (I like Romaine, but whatever you prefer)

Whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, and herbs, and season lightly with salt and pepper. Stir in celery and fold in chopped lobster meat. Cover and chill. Prior to eating, heat a large sauté pan over medium. Butter sides of buns and toast in pan until golden. Fold chives into lobster salad. Place a lettuce leaf inside each bun and divide lobster salad evenly among buns. Sprinkle with more chives and serve immediately.

Instant Pot Shredded Chicken

1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts (can use frozen)
3/4 cup chicken broth
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp ground black pepper

Place chicken in pot liner and season with salt and pepper. Pour broth over. Pressure cook for 14 minutes (18 if using frozen breasts), Allow pressure to naturally release for at least 10 minutes before venting. Place chicken in a large bowl and shred with two forks. 

Chicken can be used for taco salad, mixed with barbecue sauce and served on bulky rolls, mixed into pasta salad, used for chicken salad sandwiches, or whatever your favorite recipes that calls for cooked chicken. 

Instant Pot Pulled Pork

1 Tbsp packed brown sugar
2 tsp paprika (I like smoked paprika)
2 tsp garlic powder
2 tsp onion powder
1 tsp salt
1 tsp pepper
1/2 tsp cumin
1.4 tsp cayenne (optional)
3 lb. boneless pork roast, cut into 3-4 inch cubes
2 Tbsp olive oil
1/3 cup cider vinegar
2 cups barbecue sauce, divided (we like Baby Ray's, any variety)
1-1/4 cup chicken, beef, or vegetable broth, divided

In a small bowl mix together the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, cumin, and cayenne. Season the cubed pork with the spice mixture and set aside.

In a medium bowl whisk together the vinegar, one cup of the barbecue sauce, and one cup of the broth.

Turn your instant pot to the saute setting. Add the olive oil and allow it to get hot. Add half of the cubed pork to the hot oil and saute for 5 minutes, turning to brown on all sides. Remove the browned pork to a plate and repeat with the remaining half of the cubed pork.

Turn the pot off and use the remaining 1/4 cup of beef broth and a wooden spoon to deglaze the bottom of the pot. Add all of the meat along with the barbecue sauce mixture to the instant pot. Pressure cook for 40 minutes, then allow to release naturally for 10 minutes before venting. Remove the meat from the pot and shred.  Stir in the remaining cup of barbecue sauce and serve on buns as desired.

Happy (and cool!) eating!

2024 Tony Awards: Red Carpet Review

Due to technical difficulties (I couldn't get my digital antenna in the right place to pick up the CBS broadcast), I was unable to watch the Tonys live, and I haven't had the chance to watch a recording, so I'm judging the red carpet fashions strictly on the photos shown here. And I have to say, even by Tony standards, which are significantly lower than other awards shows, the looks were...less than memorable. Let me show you what I mean. 

Maechi Aharanwa wore a voluminous emerald satin gown with a halter top; a puffy, draped skirt; and a puffy cape. It could have used a little more shape and a little less volume, but the color was fabulous on her and she clearly loved the look herself, so she made it work. I loved her tall updo with cascading tendrils and her gold strappy heels. 

Betsy Aiden wore a sleeveless black satin gown with a square neck trimmed with gold lace, a slightly raised waistline, and a slightly flared skirt with princess seams. It was simple, but quite pretty and flattering. Not especially memorable, however. 

Dede Ayite's coppery brown gown, on the other hand, was quite memorable. It featured a strapless, fitted bodice with a plunging neckline, and the sequined fabric was turned up at the hem to reveal a plain satin finish, and pulled up to mid-thigh at one side instead of a slit, cascading into a short train. A fantastic look. 

Shoshana Bean mixed glam and casual in a two-piece look, in a sleeveless white satin crop top with a prim pointed flat collar, paired with a silverly-white sequin column skirt with a train. I loved the juxtaposition of the looser top with the clingy train, and her heavy eye makeup and dark updo were a great contrast to the pale fabric. I would have loved a tiny top of color in a bag or a piece of jewelry, but the look was still terrific as is. 

Quincy Tyler Bernstine wore a dramatic black and white chiffon wrapped dress with one black side and one white side, accented with a wide crushed sash in the opposite color. I loved the shape of the neckline and the soft, full skirt. It looked like it would have moved beautifully, as well. 

Jocelyn Bioh seems to have time-travelled from my high school prom in 1986 in this purple satin ballgown with puffy sleeves and a neckline encrusted with fabric rosettes and ostrich tips. The color is lovely on her, but this dress belongs back in 1986. 

Camille A. Brown's feathery look was a little more successful, in a strapless, tea length, off-white eyelash gown. The cut was simple but floaty and ethereal, and her dramatic hairstyle, which seemed to be an off-white turban covering most of her hair with a tall mass of braids forming a fancy elongated asymmetrical chignon at her hairline was a great detail that brought the attention back to her gorgeous face. I liked but didn't love the dress, but I did love the overall look. 

Vanessa Bell Calloway wore a halter column in a luscious shade of pistachio. It featured an unusual neckline, with the top of the halter twisted into a short braided strap that joined it with a pointed collar. The skirt had a thigh-length slit, and the look was topped with a matching duster tossed over her shoulders, forming a short train. It was a different look, and the unusual color (which was gorgeous on her) brought it up to the next level. I would absolutely wear this look (probably not as well as Calloway, but I'd wear it). 

Juliana Canfield's black strapless column looks bland at first glance, but a closer look reveals some lovely corset seaming on the bodice and an elegant strand of sparkly black flowers on a vine twining down from a pair of leaves on one tiny shoulder strap, across the waist, and then running down the side of the dress to the hem. Another look that I would wear myself. 

Ekin-Su Culculoglu (whose surname should include a bunch of diacritical marks that I just can't make happen right now, my apologies) wore a black strappy minidress overlain with a sheer black spangled gown with long sleeves ending in gauntlets, a jewel neckline, and a straight skirt with a slit up to the hem of the underskirt. The fabric was pretty, but the look felt surprisingly prim and bland to me. 

Ariane DeBose looked beautiful in a retro-styled strapless gown with a flared skirt in a gorgeous fabric of lavender, pale yellow, sage green, and black shapes that looked like stained glass. I loved the effect of the panels increasing in size from the bodice to the hem, and the simple silhouette countered the busy-ness of the patterned fabric beautifully. Bonus points for her silver bejeweled sandals. Simply gorgeous. 

Cynthia Erivo wore a dramatic gown covered with large gold and silver sequins, with a fitted strapless bodice and a modified mermaid skirt that was fitted to the knee, then flared into a long train. She accessorized with a chunky silver leaf-patterned necklace and matching earrings, and a gold cuff bracelet of interlocking buckles. She looked dramatic and - to borrow a term from Tyra Banks - fierce.

Elle Fanning looked like a designer perfume ad (Nicole Kidman for Chanel No. 5, anyone?) - in the best possible way - in a square-shouldered black tuxedo with satin shawl collar, open to the waist with no shirt, and loose-fitting trousers, accessorized with impossibly pointy-toed pumps, a delicate diamond necklace, gorgeous blond waves, and deep coral lips. Fanning is becoming one of my red carpet favorites, and this look only solidifies my love for her sense of fashion. *chef's kiss*

Jill Furman wore a dress with a simple silhouette and color that was made striking because of the gorgeous embroidered fabric. The underdress was an ivory A-line gown with a straight across bodice with tiny straps, but the sheer tulle overlay had an illusion yoke with mother-of-pearl leaves twining around the neckline and armscyes, and was covered with delicate metallic gold floral embroidery incorporating the same mother-of-pearl leaves and larger dark gold leaves. I love that she added a tiny pop of color in a huge amethyst ring, although I would have loved matching amethyst earrings as well. But a lovely and ethereal look overall. 

Renee Elise Goldsberry wore a black lace off-the-shoulder gown that was fitted to just above the knee, then flared into a short, full train. The top of the bodice had just a hint of detailing with the addition of a few rosettes and pieces of lace to add some variation to the lines. I loved her black drop earrings and her sleek updo with a single straight tendril framing her face. Well done.

 

Danai Gurira wore a strapless metallic gold two-piece ensemble. I loved the structured bodice, which had a impressively tailored curved double-pointed bottom that worked well with the stiff fabric (which looked to be faux leather rather than the lighter weight lame that is more commonly used for metallic gold). The full skirt, however, had a texture which looked wrinkled and heavy, coming off as stiff and uncomfortable instead of light and flowy. I did love her elaborately braided and looped updo with a few long straight braids cascading over her shoulder, and her diamond cuff bracelet was spectacular. A good look, but not a great one. 

Taraji P. Henson looked amazing, as always, in a strapless metallic silver column in a shell pattern. I loved the scalloped hem, the triple-pointed bodice top, her pointy silver pumps, and her cube-shaped silver handbag. Winner. 

Julianne Hough wore a blush pink strapless dress with horizontal ruffles across the bust and vertical ruffles cascading to the hem. The color wasn't bad on her, but I felt like the space between her short diamond necklace and the top of the bodice would have been better filled with a longer necklace, perhaps with a pop of deeper pink or even a contrasting blue or green gemstone. However, Hough's red carpet wear has been somewhat off the mark of late, and this dress is a vast improvement, so it gets a nod from me. 

Jennifer Hudson wore a striking all-black two-piece ensemble with a structured bodice with touches of sparkle and a deeply scooped neckline, paired with a sleek fitted velvet skirt with just a hint of draping at the hip. I loved her elbow-length black gloves, diamond bracelet, and side chignon. Very glamorous. 

Amber Iman wore a futuristic blue dress with iridescent scales and leaves that I really wanted to like, but I just couldn't. Was it supposed to be armor? Mermaid scales? Was there a reason for the belly button dip? Did they run out of scales before they got to the belly? Did it hurt when she sat down? These are not the questions you should be asking when looking at a red carpet outfit. Sorry, just no. 

Nikki M. James wore one of my favorite looks of the evening, a cranberry satin off-the-shoulder gown with a plunging neckline, a wide wrapped waist, and a full skirt with a thigh-high slit. Her diamond necklace, long side braid, and delicate gold sandals were the perfect accessories. Just a wonderful ensemble, all around. 

Angelina Jolie looked striking in a dusty sage velvet gown with plenty of draping and wrapping creating graceful lines, which were echoed in her matching wrap. The construction was impressive in that it did not look stiff or bulky, but instead soft and light. Bonus points for date and daughter Vivienne's coordinating vest/pants/bowtie in a slightly darker color, although I wish her outfit had been better-fitting. 

Celia Keenan-Bolger wore a one-shouldered gown in deep cranberry satin with a high side slit. I wish the top edge had been pleated or crushed a little to soften the line, but in general it's a lovely silhouette and it's a terrific color on her. Another good but not quite great look. 

Alicia Keys rocked a burgundy off-the-shoulder gown that deepened in color and added sparkly beading toward the hem as well as along the neckline. I loved the accessories of a narrow belt, crushed opera gloves, gorgeous chandelier earrings, and a high severe topknot softened with braids and tiny curling tendrils right at the hairline. She looked like the queen that she is. 

Kecia Lewis took the cranberry gown in a different - and unfortunate - direction. Her sequin-encrusted off-the-shoulder gown was edged with a wide rhinestone ribbon at the neck and sleeve hems - and if it had stopped there, the dress might have been a little much but not bad. But the addition of long, bright pink marabou feathers extending from the rhinestones, plus a top-heavy pearl-studded updo was just too much of everything. 

Nikiya Mathis wore a zip-front spangled black minidress with a super-flared skirt, paired with an attached long black cape with a raised collar and a coral and green printed lining. I felt like I should hate this outfit, but I honestly kind of loved it. It was cute and different in an understated and effortless kind of way, and she looked like she loved it, which made me love it, too. 

Rachel McAdams looked very subdued in a pretty but boring black column with an asymmetrically pointed bodice edged in silver and a short train. It was...okay, but nothing more. 

Audra McDonald wore a clinging sparkly black lace gown with draped shoulders and just a hint of a train. I adored her half-updo with cascading curls on one side of her face, and her pointy silver shoes. Another great example of a relatively simple dress made great by its great fabric. 

Idina Menzel wore an optical-illusion sheath dress with a pattern of nude ovals on a black background. The silhouette was simple and almost severe, with squared-off shoulders, a round neckline, and long sleeves, but it was a good balance for the busy pattern. I especially loved her softly waved hair and very natural makeup. A very nice look for her. 

Maleah Joi Moon wore another of my favorite looks on the night in a beautiful sparkly silver gown with tiny straps, a full train starting mid-thigh, and matching opera-length gloves. I loved that the top of the bodice was mainly black but faded into silver, which tied in nicely with her black handbag, and her chic pixie cut set off her fabulous square diamond earrings. Sleek, sexy, and sensational!

Bebe Neuwirth opted for a loose-fitting black halter gown with silver trimming at the neck and a fuller skirt starting at a mid-thigh seam. I didn't love the bagginess of the bodice and would have preferred a little more tailoring, but she won me over with the peep of bright red shoe. And her dark sunglasses scream "diva" in the best possible way. 

Kelli O'Hara is probably the only person who could wear this dress and not have me hate it. I love the bubblegum pink on her, and the base dress, a simple strapless column with a slightly flared skirt, is terrific. But I'm not sure why someone thought it needed an almost knee-length bubble peplum in a slightly shinier fabric added on. She does carry it off somehow, so...win? I guess?

Ashley Park wore a strapless black gown with a bustier-style laced-front top with leather insets, a column skirt with rosettes at the hip, and opera-length gloves. The top of the gown looked better when she presented (which happened to be during the 15 seconds of the ceremony that I actually had reception for). The top looks uncomfortably tight and poorly-fitted in this photo, but it is just an unfortunate pose. Overall, I really liked this look on her. 

Sarah Paulson is on my perennially-badly-dressed list, but this dress isn't too bad. I like the black-and-white patterning and the white detailing at the shoulders, so although the straight-across neckline is a bit severe, I do love her blond wavy bob and bright lips. 

Gayle Rankin's white halter shift dress should have been on my "don't" list for multiple reasons: pure white on a pale blonde, no shape, lack of accessories, overly severe eye makeup. And yet...it's totally working for me. She looks like a Greek goddess, my attention is drawn to her face and not just her dress, and she looks regal and elegant. Sometimes a bunch of don'ts can make a do. 

Nicole Schertzinger's cranberry satin dress had a lot of details, but they (mostly) worked together for a very nice look. I loved the way the diagonal lines of the one-shouldered bodice were balanced by the draping at the hip; I loved the added neck wrap that balanced the angled expanse of skin at her shoulder; I loved the just-enough-but-not-too-much volume of the bubble skirt flaring out from the sheer fabric of the upper skirt. If I were to change one detail, I think I would have used a non-sheer fabric for the upper skirt, but that's a pretty minimal nitpick. This is a really nice look, and she wears it well. 

Alyah Scott wore an ivory satin dress with short, slightly puffed sleeves, a pointed tab collar with a narrow keyhole opening, and a row of bows down the front, with a not-too-full skirt that puddled on the floor. It reminded me of a 1940s wedding gown, and it certainly had a demure and virginial feel to it. It was pretty enough, but it didn't feel quite right for a red carpet event somehow. 

 

Brooke Shields' banana yellow dress was thisclose to being successful, but it just wasn't working for her. The angles of the bodice made her shoulders look overly broad, the slight fullness at the hips made her waist look thick, and the texture of the fabric made the skirt stiff and wrinkled at the hem. The concept of the dress wasn't bad, but it was absolutely wrong for her. Look how much better she looks in the second photo, as she lifts the dress to show her shoes: the "peplum" it creates is so much more flattering - that would have been a huge improvement! I will note that I scoffed at the fact that she was wearing Crocs under her gown, but I was informed that she recently had foot surgery so I will forgive her (although I think she could have managed something as comfortable as but less ugly than Crocs). But I will not forgive her stylist for putting her in such an unflattering gown. (She's still gorgeous, though.)

Heather Simms wore a strapless bright coral ballgown accented with ruffles and rosettes at the top of the bodice, a wide sash, and two giant rosettes on the skirt, as well as a short train. I really liked the lines of the dress, although I would have added just a bit of height (and structure) to the bust, which looks just a hair droopy and unsupported. I liked the double loops of braids, but the skinny end of the braid sticking out looked childlike and unfinished. 

Shaina Taub wore an eggplant satin jumpsuit (strike one) with squared-off puffy shoulders (strike two) and metallic gold pointy-toed boots (strike three). The color was honestly the best thing about it, but it was poorly tailored, with seams wrinkling and straining, bagginess and wrinkles at the hip and crotch, and too-tightly pegged pantlegs crushing over the boots. It was just not a good look. 

Taylor Tomlinson wore a black, off-the-shoulder tea-length dress accented with champagne-colored tulle frothed asymmetrically across the top of the bodice. I liked the lines of the dress, especially the barely-flared double hem, and the short length, but the tulle was too close to her skin tone and looked lopsided. Replace the tulle with a line of rosettes in a more flattering color and this would have been a great look on her. 

Tamara Tunie wore a voluminous purple chiffon gown with a high-low skirt and huge puffy trim along the neckline and hemline. Although the color was great, it was simply too puffy and too big, and with that much volume, the high-low hem made her look stumpy. Lose 75% of the volume of the trim and 50% of the volume of the rest of the dress, keep the color, the cute silver shoes, the superlong diamond earrings, and the perfect makeup, and this is a look that would work. 

Kela Walker wore a coral long-sleeved sheath with patterning in blue, red, and yellow. The silhouette was very simple, and although the print of the fabric added some visual interest, the color wasn't quite right for her, and the overall look still came off as slightly boring. Perhaps a deeper shade of coral would have been better, or even the dress as is but as a long cape in a deeper shade of coral. it just needed a little more pizazz. 

Kara Young wore a flowing gown in an olive shade that not many people could have pulled off, but it looked amazing on her. The bodice featured sheer and opaque panels that created the illusion of more skin than was actually showing, as well as creating beautiful diagonal lines, a full skirt, and super-long, floaty sleeves that created "wings" to give her an angelic look. The dress moved beautifully, and the feminine, flowing lines were nicely balanced by Young's super-short silver hair and the heavy silver neckline of the dress, which framed her face perfectly. Another of the best looks of the night. 

So, overall, my Best Dressed List includes Dede Ayite, Vanessa Bell Calloway, Ariana DeBose, Elle Fanning, Taraji P. Henson, Nikki M. James, Angelina Jolie, Maleah Joi Moon, and Kara Young. And my Worst Dressed List includes Jocelyn Bioh, Danai Gurira, Amber Iman, Kecia Lewis, Brooke Shields, Heather Simms, Shaina Taub, and Tamara Tunie. Everyone else ranged from "fine" to "blah."

Did I miss any of your favorites? Or your least favorites? Let me know!