www.insideHALTON.com | OAKVILLE BEAVER | Friday, July 11, 2014 | 8 The magic of the kitchen creates security and comfort I f growing up in an Italian household and 31 years as a chef and restaurateur has taught me anything, it is the fact the kitchen offers magical powers. The kitchen is where stories are told and secrets shared without fear of consequence. The combination of the kitchen's warmth and the aroma of delicious food waiting to be savoured, come together to create an atmosphere of security and comfort. While filming our fourth season of Return to the Table on TV Cogeco, I had a new revelation. This season, we focused on HealthyFam, where we featured guests who are committed to the health and well-being of others. One would think with all the cameras and the bright lights shining upon us, there would be hesitation and distraction. However, what was revealed to me is the power of communication in the kitchen can't be deterred. The conversation flowed freely, humorous stories told and sage words of advice dispensed. When I asked Louise St. Pierre, president and CEO of Cogeco Canada, what advice she would give to women in business, she said: "The secret to success is a good partner in life, pick a partner who completes you, not competes with you." These valuable words were spoken all while making baked fontina and chocolate mousse. The two recipes featured were two of the film crew's favourites. They include pizza shots that I made with my three sons, Matthew, Alexander and John Paul and chocolate mousse made alongside St. Pierre. Pizza shots are a new way to have a little fun with Since 1952 plain pizza dough and your favourite toppings. Chocolate mousse is pure chocolate heaven without all the muss and fuss. From my kitchen to yours... happy and healthy eating. Pizza shots Ingredients: · Pre-made pizza dough · Olive oil for greasing plus extra for finishing · A selection of two or more fillings · Nutella and banana · Pesto · Cheese · Tomato sauce with finely chopped herbs Method: 1. Turn the rested dough onto a clean counter and, with the flat edge, divide it first into 5 x 6 ounce pieces, roll each piece into a log, cut each in half, then cut each half into three, to make 30 pieces. Roll each piece into a tight, smooth ball. Place the balls onto a flat-edged baking tray that has been lightly greased with oil (make sure there is space between them or they will touch as they rise) and let them rest for 15 minutes. Chocolate ricotta mousse cups. | photo by Adam Simopoulos Carpet Cleaning Specialists On The Spot! RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL WALL TO WALL FURNITURE & UPHOLSTERY AREA RUGS PERSIAN & ORIENTAL Dip the handle of a wooden spoon or your index finger into the flour and then push it into the centre of the first ball. Put a little of your chosen filling into the well you have made. Repeat with the remaining balls. 2. Put the tray into the preheated oven at 425 F and bake for eight to 10 minutes until they are light golden brown. Remove and let cool a little, so that they are just warm before serving. Brush with a little olive oil to give a nice sheen and an extra layer of flavour. Chocolate ricotta mousse cups Ingredients: · four ounces (one bar) of dark or milk chocolate · half teaspoon cinnamon · one tablespoon brown sugar · two cups ricotta cheese · whipped cream · raspberries for garnish Method: 1. Melt four ounces of chocolate in a metal bowl over a pot of boiling water. 2. Let cool, slightly. 3. Blend everything in a food processor for 30 seconds, then spoon into four cups and chill for an hour. As a special touch, spoon the mixture into wine or martini glasses. 4. Top the chocolate ricotta mousse with whipped cream and chocolate shavings (you can use a peeler to make the shavings). 5. Garnish with raspberries. -- Submitted by Julia Hanna, founder of HealthyFam, a non-profit organization that teaches people the importance of maintaining a balanced diet, staying active and connecting with family around the dinner table. Truck Mount In-Plant Service Water Damage Restoration See the transformation of what we can do in relation to others! e l a S r e m o f Sum s y a D Hazy 3 3 3 Best Sunrooms Best Awnings Best Windows & Doors 2006-2013 2013 2002-2013 VOTED BEST CARPET & RUG CLEANERS 14 YEARS IN A ROW! Drop-off Discount! 25% FREE 250 mL SPOTTING BOTTLE www.onthespotcleaning.ca Bronte i te s b e W W E N r u to i si V .com qsiwindows 905-825-4256 1446 WALLACE RD. OAKVILLE, ON QEW Speers Wallace tion, has not r of this promo way. any n's is not a sponso *** Tim Horto zes and does not endorse it in pri provided the . 175 Nebo Rd 905-575-8078 Hamilton Toll-Free 1-866-575-8078 **Offer not applicable on basement window or storm door purchases. Offer valid only on purchases made between July 1st 2013 to August 31st 2014. qsiwindows.com