My Bloody Valentine

George eager for his puppy school Valentine cookie

Dexter - thank goodness for Netflix instant view!

On Monday The Hanna House celebrated Valentine's Day with puppy school, cards, flowers (thanks Briguy), Dexter, and the amazing Nick and Toni's Penne Alla Vecchia Bettola.

The delicious Penna Alla Vodka recipe was one we scoped out long ago from a Barefoot Contessa episode and saved for the special occasion...

Finished product 1030PM - YUMMMMMMM

Ina hooked us up - this recipe from Nick and Toni's East Hampton restaurant is magically delicious - but be warned the cook/prep time is over 2 hours...

Chef Notes - we followed the recipe with the following modifications/learnings:
- I used an immersion blender (love that thing!) and my dutch oven - instead of a saute pan and blender
- Fresh bright green oregano as a garnish (get the reference? - haha) added sophistication - but I do not think its a flavor breaker if you do not have it on hand
- The dish was delicious and tasted restaurant quality but was a bit salty and spicy....next time I may use a little less salt and test basil instead of the oregano
- Also - those San Marzano tomatoes (expensive but worth it!) are VERY juicy - notice the lovely red stains behind our oven (similar to another delicious red food -those killer cupcakes)....get your sponge ready for clean up!

Pics of the process -