Olives...pressed

"These trees so fresh, so full, so beautiful; when they display their fruit, green, golden, and black, it is among the most agreeable sights one might ever see." - Miguel Cervantes

I just finished reading Mort Rosenblum's book named Olives: The Life and Lore of the Noble Fruit. There is real passion in this book! As a journalist Mort does what he does best, and that is to investigate. He takes you to many countries around the world including Palestine, Israel, Italy, Spain, Tunisia. But Mort has also done his research and brings to life the rich history of olives and what it means to us today both as a consumer and as a connoisseur. This book is part travelog, part farmer's manual, part business accumen. Ultimately, he has made me enjoy the olive fruit more by his richness of information and loving detail. Mort has written many books including one on chocolate, which I might have to read too.

Holiday Martini Magic

Does anything say/shout holiday magic better than a dirty martini? One might argue for some hot chocolate and wonderful Christmas carols. Others might call from some good old fashioned Norwegian glug. But for me it is answering the question of whether you have been naughty or nice. And a dirty martini is just so nice (and a bit naughty after having a few).

A proper dirty martini does not need top shelf gin or a fancy mixologist. What it needs is some simple olives and a bit of olive juice to give the herbal gin a salty bite. The martini pictured was ordered by my friend Kenn at Le Poisson Rouge while listening to some amazing jazz by John Hollenbeck. It was jumbo sized and very potent. I think the olives made the evening extra magical, good to the last bite. Spread the holiday cheer!