Author: Emily Gautreaux

A Unique Baked Feta Recipe That Will Leave Guests Asking for More

Are you ready to elevate your appetizer game? Dive into the world of flavors with this sensational recipe for Lemon Baked Feta from Louisiana Cookin. This dish is not only easy to prepare but promises an explosion of taste that will leave your taste buds tingling. Gather around the kitchen, and let’s embark on a culinary adventure.

Ingredients:

  • 1 (16-ounce) block of velvety feta cheese, soaked in brine and drained
  • 2 tablespoons of finely chopped preserved lemon
  • 6 to 8 (¼-inch-thick) slices of lemon
  • 1 (8-ounce) assortment of cherry tomatoes
  • ¼ cup of seedless kalamata olives
  • ¼ cup of seedless Castelvetrano olives
  • 4 tablespoons of olive oil (divided)
  • 4 (4-inch) strips of lemon peel
  • 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice
  • 3 sprigs of fresh thyme
  • 3 sprigs of fresh rosemary
  • 2 teaspoons of Cajun seasoning
  • Toasted baguette slices for serving
  • Fresh rosemary for garnish

Directions:

  1. Begin by preheating your oven to a toasty 400°F (200°C).
  2. Take a 9-inch square baking dish or ovenproof skillet, and let’s work some magic. Place the feta right in the center, and drizzle it with a tantalizing tablespoon of olive oil. Sprinkle the feta with the Cajun seasoning, adding a kick of spice. Now, crown the feta with the finely chopped preserved lemon and four zesty lemon slices.
  3. In a separate bowl, orchestrate a symphony of flavors. Combine the cherry tomatoes, kalamata olives, Castelvetrano olives, lemon peel, fresh lemon juice, and the remaining three tablespoons of olive oil. This vibrant mixture will dance around the feta, infusing it with a melody of tastes.
  4. Pour the tomato ensemble around the feta, creating a harmonious blend of colors and aromas. Arrange the sprigs of thyme, rosemary, and the remaining lemon slices on top, turning this dish into a visual masterpiece.
  5. Slide your creation into the preheated oven and let the magic unfold. After about 20 minutes, expect the feta to transform into a lusciously melted, light golden brown delight, while the tomatoes achieve a burst of succulence. Bid farewell to the rosemary and thyme—your culinary symphony is ready for the grand finale.
  6. As the dish emerges, prepare to indulge. Serve the Lemon Baked Feta with crispy, toasted baguette slices, perfect for scooping up every savory morsel. Garnish your creation with sprigs of fresh rosemary, adding a final touch of elegance.

 

Serving Suggestions:

As you embark on this gastronomic journey with this Lemon Baked Feta, consider enhancing the overall experience by pairing it with complimentary side dishes. These carefully chosen accompaniments will not only add variety to your meal but also elevate the flavors and textures to create a symphony of tastes on your palate.

Greek Salad Extravaganza: Kick off your culinary adventure by serving this Lemon Baked Feta alongside a vibrant Greek salad. The crispness of cucumbers, the juiciness of tomatoes, the brininess of olives, and the creaminess of feta will harmonize perfectly with the zesty notes of the main dish. Drizzle with a light vinaigrette to tie all the flavors together

Roasted Vegetables Medley: For a heartier option, roast a medley of seasonal vegetables to perfection. Think colorful bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and red onions. The caramelized edges and robust flavors of the roasted veggies will provide a delightful contrast to the creamy, tangy profile of the Lemon Baked Feta.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip Delight: Indulge your guests with a warm and creamy spinach and artichoke dip. The velvety texture of the dip, paired with crispy pita chips or breadsticks, creates a luxurious contrast to the Lemon Baked Feta. Your taste buds will thank you for this indulgent combination.

Get ready to impress your guests with this divine Lemon Baked Feta creation. Its combination of rich, creamy feta and zesty lemon flavors will transport your taste buds to a culinary paradise. Serve it as an appetizer or a star dish at your next gathering—it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

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Beyond Borders: The Cajun Culture Fusion at Larose’s French Food Festival

In the quaint town of Larose, Louisiana, a tradition that began as a modest idea in the early 1970s has blossomed into a remarkable celebration of Cajun culture and cuisine. Sidney Triche, a key figure in the festival’s evolution, reminisces about its humble origins, emphasizing the significant growth it has undergone since its inception, as per this article from HoumaToday.

As the curtains closed on the third and final day of this year’s French Food Festival, Triche, now 87, took center stage to conduct the auction, a task that had become both a source of pride and a challenging endeavor. His dedication and emotional connection to the event were palpable, reflecting a sentiment akin to a parent sending their child off to college. The festival, he asserted, had become an integral part of the community, and he was determined to ensure its perpetual success.

Over the years, the French Food Festival has become a source of immense pride for the Larose community. Triche, reflecting on the arduous journey, acknowledged the initial struggles the festival faced in gaining momentum. However, its resilience and commitment to preserving Cajun traditions have resulted in a highly successful event, consistently generating around $300,000 in profit annually over the past three years.

On the bustling Saturday of the festival, the pavilion teemed with over 1,200 enthusiastic attendees, according to Lindsey Savoie, a dedicated board member of the Bayou Civic Club. The festival’s profits for this year were yet to be determined, with Savoie estimating that the final figures would only be available come December.

The festival’s roots trace back to 1973 when Weldon Matherne and his sister, Bernice Ordoyne, conceived the idea as part of the Bayou Civic Club. Originally named the Bouillabaisse Festival, the event has since undergone several transformations. Triche, an early board member, vividly recounted the first attempt to sell home-cooked dishes on the field that now houses the Larose Community Center. Mother Nature, however, had different plans, as heavy rain, lightning, and ankle-deep water dampened the inaugural festival.

Undeterred, the civic club persevered through the adverse weather conditions, learning valuable lessons along the way. The following year, armed with a tent, they raised an impressive $30,000. Despite further challenges, including a storm that toppled their tent, the club’s determination attracted attention from elected officials. Louisiana Sen. Leonard J. Chabert played a crucial role by securing grants that facilitated the construction of the Larose Community Center.

For the next two decades, the festival became a staple in the community, with approximately $80,000 to $85,000 in profits each year. The event’s success not only sustained the Larose Community Center but also funded the nearby Larose Regional Park.

The heart of the festival lies in its 22 food booths, cherished by locals for their connection to familial traditions. Lindsey Savoie emphasized that these booths are often passed down through generations, creating a sense of continuity and community. Among the vendors is Joel Barrios of Bayou Boys Po-Boys, who temporarily closed his Texas restaurant to participate in the festival. Barrios, a Larose native, saw this as an opportunity to expose his Texas-based employees to the authentic South Lafourche regional meals that shaped his childhood.

One of Barrios’s employees, Kristyn Douglas, a Texas native, expressed her delight in experiencing the festival for the first time. She praised the unique flavors of Cajun cuisine, highlighting the pastalaya—a twist on traditional jambalaya that incorporates pasta. Douglas marveled at the authenticity of the food, noting that Texas doesn’t quite capture the essence of Cajun Culture and its flavors.

As the festival concluded, its success echoed through the vibrant streets of Larose. The community’s dedication to preserving its cultural heritage, overcoming challenges, and fostering a sense of togetherness was evident in every aspect of the French Food Festival.

In summary, the French Food Festival in Larose has transformed from a weather-dampened inaugural event to a thriving celebration of Cajun culture and culinary excellence. Through resilience, community spirit, and a commitment to tradition, the festival has not only endured but flourished, benefiting both the Larose Community Center and the Larose Regional Park.

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Louisiana Students Achieve Remarkable Academic Success

In a triumphant display of resilience and dedication, Louisiana students have surpassed pre-pandemic school performance scores for the second consecutive year, marking a significant milestone in the state’s academic journey. The Louisiana Department of Education (LDOE) unveiled the 2023 performance scores, revealing a noteworthy improvement of 1.4 points to reach an impressive statewide school performance score of 78.5, according to this news release from the LDOE. This remarkable achievement follows the state’s commendable effort in matching its pre-pandemic score of 77.1 in the preceding year, showcasing a consistent upward trajectory.

Dr. Cade Brumley, the State Superintendent of Louisiana, expressed his elation, acknowledging the unprecedented challenges the state has faced in recent years. He remarked, “Louisiana has faced unprecedented disruptions over the past few years, and these scores are a testament to the efforts of so many people across our state.” Dr. Brumleyemphasized the collective commitment to education, highlighting the scores as evidence of the unwavering dedication to fostering academic success amidst adversities.

The Louisiana Department of Education did not limit its celebration to overall performance scores. Early Childhood Performance Profiles were also released, providing a comprehensive view of publicly-funded child care centers, Head Start programs, and schools catering to children from birth to five. These profiles, inclusive of ratings derived from meticulous classroom observations, showcase the state’s commitment to nurturing a solid foundation for young learners.

The latest early childhood data reveals a historic surge in instructional support and engaged support for learning scores. Notably, child care facilities experienced the most substantial growth, with an increase in the quantity of sites rated as excellent, despite a 13% rise in the overall number of early learning sites in Louisiana. This underscores the state’s dedication to promoting quality early education and fostering a conducive learning environment for its youngest students.

Moving beyond early childhood achievements, the release of Advanced Placement (AP) results for the 2022-23 school year further solidifies Louisiana students and their academic prowess. A record-breaking 8,697 high school seniors earned a 3 or better on their AP exams, a 19% increase from the pre-pandemic total in 2019. This remarkable accomplishment not only reflects individual success but also signifies a collective commitment to elevating educational standards across the state.

In addition to AP success, the Louisiana 2023 senior class witnessed the first annual increase in average ACT scores since 2017, defying the national trend of a drop in averages. Louisiana students have consistently demonstrated improvement, with scores increasing for the second consecutive year, and an impressive 75% of school systems showing improvement on the 2023 LEAP.

Highlighting the accomplishments of Louisiana’s 4th graders, the state led the nation in reading growth, contributing to an overall rise in the state’s ranking from 46th to 42nd among states on the NAEP from 2019 to 2022. Furthermore, the state’s Pre-K-12 education earned a commendable five-place improvement in the U.S. News & World Report Rankings.

These outstanding achievements underscore the commitment of Louisiana’s education system to continuous improvement. The state’s students have recorded the most significant year-over-year increase on state assessments since 2016, with students showing marked improvement in both English Language Arts (ELA) and math.

As we celebrate these achievements, it is essential to understand the significance of performance scores. Since 1999, Louisiana has issued school performance scores based on student achievement data, utilizing letter grades (A-F) to communicate the quality of school performance to families and the public. This transparent system ensures accountability and fosters a culture of continuous improvement.

In conclusion, Louisiana’s educational journey is marked by resilience, dedication, and a commitment to excellence. The state’s students, educators, and administrators have overcome unprecedented challenges, demonstrating that in the face of adversity, Louisiana’s commitment to academic success remains unwavering.

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Transforming Classics with Cinnamon-Sugar Cardamom Twist

Are you ready to elevate your baking game? In this delectable recipe, we’re putting a delightful twist on a classic—introducing this recipe for Cinnamon-Sugar Cardamom Brioche Twists from Food52. This gorgeous and delicious baked treat is a perfect fusion of flavors and textures, inspired by a recipe from the Land O’Lakes website. The result? Soft, delicate, and airy rolls with a rich essence akin to challah or brioche, thanks to the inclusion of sour cream, butter, evaporated milk, and eggs. Let’s dive into the details of crafting this delightful twist!

Ingredients for Cardamom Twist:

For the bread:

For the filling:

  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup sugar

Directions for Cardamom Twist:

  1. Prepare the Bread Dough: In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, cardamom, butter, evaporated milk, and salt. Heat over medium, stirring occasionally until the butter melts. Set aside to cool until warm but not hot.
  2. Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Add 3 cups of flour, sour cream, eggs, and the warm butter mixture. Stir until well-combined.
  3. Gradual Flour Addition: Add the remaining flour gradually until the dough is stiff enough to handle. Be cautious with flour amounts; it should still be somewhat sticky. Knead for about 5 minutes and let it rise for 1 1/2 hours.
  4. Create the Filling: Mix softened butter, cinnamon, and sugar to create a paste. Adjust cinnamon to your preference.
  5. Roll and Shape: Roll out half of the dough into a 9 by 20-inch rectangle. Spread half of the filling thinly, leaving a 1-inch border. Fold in half and cut into 1/2-inch strips. Form knots by wrapping and tucking.
  6. Repeat and Rise: Repeat the process with the second half of the dough. Let the knots rise for 15 minutes. Bake to Perfection: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Bake the rolls for about 20 minutes or until golden brown. Adjust timing based on the size of your knots.
  7. Cool and Enjoy: Let the rolls cool, then indulge in the delightful aroma and taste of your Cinnamon-Sugar Cardamom Brioche Twist.

Serving Suggestions:

Now that you’ve masterfully crafted your Cinnamon-Sugar Cardamom Brioche Twists, it’s time to think beyond the oven and consider delightful pairings that will elevate your taste experience to new heights. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will complement the flavors of your brioche twists and leave your taste buds dancing with delight.

Decadent Caramel Drizzle: Take your brioche twists to the next level by drizzling them with a rich and decadent caramel sauce. The buttery sweetness of the caramel perfectly complements the warm, spiced notes of the cardamom and cinnamon, creating a symphony of flavors that will leave your taste buds singing.

Whipped Cream and Berries Bonanza: For a lighter yet equally indulgent option, whip up some fresh cream and serve it alongside your brioche twists. Add a burst of freshness with a side of mixed berries – strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries – creating a harmonious balance between the sweet, spiced bread and the vibrant tartness of the berries.

With its heavenly aroma and intricate knots, the Cinnamon-Sugar Cardamom Brioche Twist is a showstopper in the world of baked goods. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting, this recipe is a delightful challenge that rewards with each delicious bite. Elevate your baking skills and treat yourself to a taste of sweetness and spice.

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Discover the Magic of Georgia’s Paradise Gardens: A Hidden Treasure for Folk Art Enthusiasts

If you’re a lover of art, history, and the serenity of nature, Georgia’s Paradise Gardens is a destination that should be on your must-visit list, and this handy travel guide from Southern Living is a great resource to help you out. Nestled in the small town of Summerville in northwest Georgia, this four-acre property holds the legacy of Howard Finster, a Baptist preacher and local repairman turned prolific self-taught artist.

What Is Paradise Gardens?

Paradise Gardens is the former residence of Howard Finster and the embodiment of his life’s work. The property showcases an array of structures, including his work shed, the World Folk Art Church, and the Mirror House, adorned with sculptures, paintings, and an assortment of found objects. The garden is a mesmerizing display of creativity, where concrete paths painted with messages wind around the property, leading visitors to various small buildings and Finster’s notable pieces. The walkways guide you through a unique journey, unveiling a rusted Cadillac covered with portraits, a tower of corroded bicycle parts hosting overgrown vines and small birds, and a small house adorned with a sparkling mirrored mosaic inside and out. Among the highlights is The World’s Folk Art Church, a twelve-sided building designed by Finster himself to resemble a wedding cake.

Where Is Paradise Gardens?

Located in Summerville, Paradise Gardens is easily accessible, open to the public year-round from Tuesday to Sunday between 11:00 AM and 5:00 PM EST, regardless of the weather. Detailed instructions on how to get there are available on the Paradise Garden website, ensuring a seamless journey to this artistic haven. If you’re captivated by the charm of Paradise Gardens and wish to extend your visit, three Airbnb rental properties on-site provide cozy accommodation options.

Howard Finster: A Visionary Folk Artist

Howard Finster’s journey from a Baptist preacher and local repairman to a renowned self-taught artist is as fascinating as the art he created. Born in Valley Head, Alabama, in 1916, Finster’s creative spark ignited in the 1940s when he established the Plant Farm Museum, a roadside attraction honoring inventors with self-constructed models of buildings and sculptures. The turning point came in 1976 when, while painting a repaired bicycle, Finster claimed to have a divine vision instructing him to “Paint sacred art.” Despite initial doubts about his artistic abilities, he dedicated the rest of his life to creating art that conveyed his deep faith through Bible verses and biblical imagery. His extensive body of work, including thousands of paintings and sculptures, laid the foundation for Paradise Gardens.

In the 1980s, Finster gained widespread recognition, attracting attention from the likes of the Georgia rock band REM,who collaborated on an album cover and filmed a music video at Paradise Gardens. The iconic Talking Headsfollowed suit with their album “Little Creatures.” Today, Finster’s legacy lives on, and his work continues to be celebrated in galleries worldwide.

Immerse Yourself in Georgia’s Paradise Gardens

Beyond the enchanting art, Paradise Gardens offers visitors a chance to connect with nature and revel in the tranquility of its surroundings. The self-guided tour allows you to explore at your own pace, providing a unique and personal experience. The wear and tear of time and weather on the structures and art only add to the authenticity of the journey, making it a truly immersive adventure. Whether you’re strolling through the concrete paths, admiring the diverse artworks, or simply taking in the serene atmosphere, Georgia’s Paradise Gardens promises an unforgettable escape into the world of folk art and creativity.

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The Digital Horizon: Louisiana’s Visionary Approach to Broadband Access

In the race to bring high-speed broadband access to underserved and remote areas, Louisiana emerges as a front-runner, leading the pack in fulfilling bureaucratic requirements, according to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration, according to this article from The Advocate. Among all states, Louisiana has successfully completed seven out of eight necessary steps, positioning itself at the forefront of the initiative to provide fast internet services to approximately 200,000 locations, primarily in rural areas, currently devoid of this essential connectivity.

ConnectLA, a government-organized agency dedicated to coordinating broadband expansion efforts in Louisiana, has been a key player in this endeavor. Veneeth Iyengar, the executive director of ConnectLA, expressed optimism about resolving the connectivity challenge once and for all. He envisions a future where nearly every household and business in the state will be seamlessly connected by 2028.

Reflecting on the magnitude of the achievement, Iyengar elucidated, “By complete, I mean that you can call aninternet provider, say ‘I need my broadband installed in 10 days,’ and get it.” This is a stark contrast to the current scenario in many unserved and underserved areas where residents either have no access to internet services or are compelled to pay exorbitant amounts, often exceeding $15,000, for installation in their locations. Drawing a historical parallel, the time it took for telephone companies to ensure universal phone service in the state serves as a poignant reminder of the gradual evolution of connectivity. Not until 2005, prompted by the Louisiana Public Service Commission, did telephone companies extend cell phone service to remote areas where the installation of traditional lines was economically unfeasible.

The current broadband expansion initiative, spearheaded by President Joe Biden, is likened to the transformative program that brought electricity to rural areas in the 1930s. Governor John Bel Edwards underscores Louisiana’s aggressive pursuit of federal funding, aiming to bridge the digital divide before the next decade commences. Leveraging funds from various sources, including the American Rescue Plan, Louisiana has already completed broadband line installations in Lafourche and St. Landry parishes, with ongoing construction in Iberia, Calcasieu, East Carroll, and West Carroll parishes.

Eyeing the future, Iyengar anticipates the deployment of the substantial $1.35 billion earmarked for broadband expansion. The state is poised to receive approximately $1.9 billion in federal funds, encompassing grants from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, the Federal Communications Commission, U.S. Treasury, and the National Telecommunications and Information Administration.

As the second anniversary of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act approaches, the Biden administration uses the occasion to highlight the myriad projects funded by the $1.2 trillion legislation. Over 40,000 projects, ranging from fortifying the electric grid to upgrading infrastructure like roads, bridges, and ports, are in development.

Embedded in this comprehensive legislative package is the Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (BEAD) program, allocating $42.5 billion. Louisiana secures $1.35 billion from BEAD, positioning itself ahead of some states in this critical endeavor. The program prioritizes “unserved” areas, lacking speeds of 25 megabits per second (Mbps) download and 3 Mbps upload, followed by “underserved” areas with speeds below 100 Mbps. The overarching goal is to ensure affordable, reliable, high-speed internet access for all Americans by 2030.

Beyond infrastructure development, the program allocates $30 monthly subsidies to assist low-income households with internet plans. The National Telecommunications and Information Administration has recently approved Louisiana’s initial proposal, determining the eligibility of locations for broadband expansion. The formal challenge process, initiated on October 6 and set to conclude by January 4, ensures a rigorous evaluation of the expansion plan.

Looking ahead, Iyengar envisions the state making requests for bids in March or April, with construction commencing after federal approval of chosen contractors. The relentless pursuit of universal broadband access in Louisianareflects a commitment to inclusivity and bridging the digital gap, aligning with the broader national vision outlined in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.

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