Sustainably Yours…
Despite my obvious admiration for the greasy and cheesy, I’m also an advocate for locally sourced and sustainable eating. Choosing farm to table is much more than a fashionable menu up-charge, rather culinary consciousness; one that most neglect in their daily lives. Truth is eating well is not as laborious as it seems, and Chefs like Amber Antonelli of “The Naked Bite” are demystifying the sustainable lifestyle with “healthy” cooking classes.
I was fortunate enough to attend Vizcaya’s monthly cooking series; a herbaceous four-course menu designed by Antonelli to showcase Vizcaya’s homegrown produce.
The experience catered to all the senses; fragrant herbs dressed our table, all whilst the unadulterated flavors of fresh kale and homemade breads were plated before us. The food was not only delicious but stunning; vibrant greens and reds painted our plates as Vizcaya’s lush garden served as our backdrop. I now know how to properly “massage” my Kale, that Basil can be Cuban, and how adding a little Rosemary to your water can bring you to Martha Stewart status.
Additionally, even though Antonelli’s menus are primarily meat-free, she is not opposed to incorporating properly sourced, free-range proteins into her menus. So, whether you’re vegan or a bacon connoisseur, Antonelli believes in balance; finding a middle ground between eating mindfully while still enjoying the savory and sinful (even ice cream!). It was such a pleasure to meet Antonelli and the staff at Vizcaya; an overall whimsical evening that every Miami foodie should experience. Antonelli offers healthy catering, cooking classes, and pop-up potlucks for like-minded sustainable eaters and curious foodies alike.