"rosemary" news and stories

This is a great example of how something really simple -- like pizza dough -- can look really unusual, in this case like tiny golden snail shells. These twists of dough are brushed with olive oil and sprinkled with sea salt and chopped rosemary, and make a funky, off-the-beaten-path bread to serve alongside salads or appetizers.

Unfortunately, the blogger who shared this photo wasn't too impressed with the version she encountered at a local restaurant. (To use her exact words: "I found myself tugging and gnawing at the bundles . . . like a dog gnawing on a dried pig's ear.") Just another smart idea gone awry in the wrong hands. We still think it's worth experimenting with your own version at home.

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Learn how to boost the flavor of an everyday honeypot with fresh rosemary.

The approach of chilly weather may leave many craving warm libations, but this Vodka Rosemary Lemonade Fizz is truly a drink for all seasons. The bloggers of the Bitten Word tackled this Gourmet recipe, which eschews the usual infusion to instead create a simple syrup with sugar, rosemary and lemon juice subbing for water. The syrup can keep for weeks in the fridge and need only be topped with vodka and a dash of club soda to be served.

Rosemary adds a nice mouthfeel and complexity to the crisp, refreshing drink, but almost any herb will serve well in simple syrup, from lavender to Thai basil. Spill your simple syrup recipes or ideas in the comments.

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Know your basil from your borage? Fennel from fenugreek? Mint from marjoram? It's the zestiest quiz ever from Slashfood.

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• Bring your rosemary in for the winter.
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