It's Difficult

It's so great to have friends who invite us over for wonderful food and friendship. Sunday afternoon we went over to Steve and Lori's. As usual, we stopped at Iavarone in Wantagh first. This particular store is amazing. Everything Italian you could want. Great olives, deli, prepared foods, pastas (fresh and dried), meats, fish, seafood, fruit, veggies, beer, desserts and bread (their own bakery). Anyway, after the obligatory 3 bags of food, we arrived at the Shapiro's house to be welcomed by their two dogs (Misty and Bella) jumping like crazy (it's nice to be wanted...) and their two girls (Michelle and Alyssa), and of course, Steve and Lori! Lori made a bean and cheese dip, right from the oven with jalapeno and black olives that I am crazy about. We put out our 3 cheeses: Parmigiano Reggiano, Asiago Fresca and Grana Padano. We also had marinated beets and roasted peppers, two kinds of bread, balsamic glaze for dipping, cracked Sicilian olives and roasted Brussels sprouts (Iavarone makes them really well). Michael and Steve had Innis & Gunn rum cask beer. We shared two bottles of wine also, then it was time for dinner. Steve and Lori made short ribs braised in wine, olive oil, chicken broth, and carrots. They were fall-off-the-bone yummy (I know I don't eat meat, but I tasted the gravy and even put a little of it on a piece of bread) so I know it was good. Also, shrimp marinated in wasabi, teryaki and garlic then butterflied and pressed into panko bread crumbs then fried till crispy. They were fabulous! Also, Greek salad and more bread. And more wine. Then coffee and dessert and home to bed :) Again, we are thankful for our wonderful friends!