the pantry

Entries in Leo (3)

Saturday
Aug132011

Leo / Virgo magazine horoscopes!

Here are the the Leo and Virgo birthday horoscopes... (usually) published in Napa Valley Life. This one missed the final Aug/Sep issue, but we still have it here for your reading pleasure!

There were lots of great StarChefs born under these two creative signs!

Download/View PDF

LEO
Summer sets the perfect stage for our shimmering Leo all-stars. Be sure to pace yourself at the BBQ parties, both your own and others, and give yourself plenty of quiet time to reconnect with your intuition. But, of course, bring on the cake and ice cream sundae bar for your big day… just reign in the temptation to celebrate all month! As Venus advances through Leo up to the 20th, your popularity soars and the law of attraction is abundant. The full moon on the 13th stimulates romance sizzle… now is the time to plan that weekend getaway.

Your pairing: Grilled filet mignon au poivre with fresh asparagus pasta salad and a spicy Zinfandel.
StarChefs: Julia Child, Alton Brown, Tom Colicchio, Giada DeLaurentiis, David Rocco, Martha Stewart

VIRGO
It’s time to believe what others have known for a long time… you are a star and can manifest your daydreams with little effort bringing you the recognition you truly want. Embrace this side of yourself and practice creativity. The kitchen is a good place to start breaking out. The full moon on the 12th will support these efforts by sharpening your skills of persuasion and keeping you in tune with partners of all types. Plan a special party for your birthday and show them your flair. Remember… life encompasses work AND play!

Your pairing: Summer pineapple glazed Cornish game hen with pine nut wild rice stuffing and crispy Pinot Grigio.
StarChefs: Mario Batali, Todd English, Michael Symon, Rachel Ray, Padma Lakshmi, Donatella Arpaia

 

Tuesday
Jul262011

mangia mangia! happy birthday Leo all-stars!

leo

Got a band? I'll lead it!

july 23 -august 22
ruled by: the sun
status: I will

quickfire:
Mangiare is not just the Italian verb for 'to eat'. "Mangia!" is the passionate cry that sounds the beginning of every Italian meal with outstretched arms and huge smiles. A Leo must have started this tradition. You are a community cat, magnetic and generous... especially when you have an audience. You love the best of everything and your foodie birthright is no exception. Bask in the warmth of hosting great meals, you're always a crowd pleaser!

From Leo's "Mangia!" chapter...
If Leo can’t be the host themselves, they need to be the recipient of great service and wonderful foods. Please, no buffets or cafeterias with bright lights or loud noise imitating music. Their keen senses are assaulted easily and when turned off, they become cranky.
 
Having said that, it’s not important whether the restaurant is fine dining or a dining dive, it just has to be known for something… the best service, the best chili, or the most interesting environment. Leo is not about being elitist or snobby; they are about passion and indulgence in the best life has to offer at that moment. You can take them to the seediest joint, as long as it’s eclectic and the chili con carne is extraordinary.

Favorite Foods:  Hearty well-presented food served with rich sauces. Savory roasted meats, casseroles and pastas. And for sweets, lots of ice cream or an excellent dark chocolate wrapped in something flashy. If they are forced to eat vegetables they must be brightly colored, interesting and flavorful. A beloved food for Leo can run the gamut in recipe variation. For example, macaroni and cheese can be from the box or gourmet with truffles and Brie! The menu can consist of one dish or five… it doesn’t matter as long as it’s exceptional or involves a warm memory, the service is excellent, and don’t forget… they must have an audience.

 

 

Saturday
Jul312010

mangia! happy birthday Leo all-stars!

Mangiare is not just the Italian verb for to eat. “Mangia!” is the passionate cry that sounds the beginning of every Italian meal with outstretched arms and huge smiles. A Leo must have started this tradition.

If they can’t be the host themselves, Leo needs to be the recipient of great service and wonderful foods. Please, no buffets or cafeterias with bright lights or loud noise imitating music. Their keen senses are assaulted easily and when turned off, they become cranky.
 
Having said that, it’s not important whether the restaurant is fine dining or a dining dive, it just has to be known for something… the best service, the best chili, or the most interesting environment. Leo is not about being elitist or snobby; they are about passion and indulgence in the best life has to offer at that moment. You can take them to the seediest joint, as long as it’s eclectic and the chili con carne is extraordinary.

If you’re going to take your Prince Leo out to the trendiest hot spot, you’d better have the clout to get the best table because it won’t do if he has to sit in the corner by the waiter’s station.  He would rather go to a lukewarm spot and have the attention and service he requires. And he doesn’t mind waiting a little longer for a table with a view. 

The big cat is a community animal. They need to share that experience in the moment with someone they care about; they do not care to travel or adventure alone. The more diverse the entourage the better, but these people are not window dressing; Leo is fiercely loyal and supportive to good friends. Let Leo take you out or cook for you and the meal is guaranteed to satisfy everyone present! 

A strong Leo character will have a different eating ritual for each environment. It may encompass style and creativity or simply fulfill their need for recognition. It could mean that certain foods are only eaten in front of the TV! They will not hesitate to call the manager if there is something wrong with the meal, but like true royalty, they will do it gracefully without demeaning the establishment. Remember, Leo is an ancient regal sign and as such requires the appropriate measure of doting. They treat every life experience as a creative challenge and will be sorely disappointed if the adventure goes sour. 

Favorite Foods:  Hearty well-presented food served with rich sauces. Savory roasted meats, casseroles and pastas. And for sweets, lots of ice cream or an excellent dark chocolate wrapped in something flashy. If they are forced to eat vegetables they must be brightly colored, interesting and flavorful. A beloved food for Leo can run the gamut in recipe variation. For example, macaroni and cheese can be from the box or gourmet with truffles and Brie! The menu can consist of one dish or five… it doesn’t matter as long as it’s exceptional or involves a warm memory, the service is excellent, and don’t forget… they must have an audience.

excerpt from Stars in Your Stomach... Chef Cosmo's Planetary Cucina!