Russian potato salad (Как Приготовить Салат Оливье)

Olivier salad is an easy and delicious Russian potato salad

Olivier salad is an easy and delicious Russian potato salad! This Russian staple dish can be served as a side dish or enjoyed on its own.

Appetite for the Arches

logo2

Today I had a chance to preview some of the incredible dishes to be prepared by Central Florida Top Chefs for the Appetite for the Arches fundraising event on March 1st. All of the signature creations are made with McDonald’s ingredients!!!

KathyFOTO5606

We started with an amazing Charmoula Chicken created by Chef Kathleen Blake of The Rusty Spoon.

FOTO5627FOTO5621

Followed by a Chipotle BBQ Beef Enchiladas prepared by Chef Kevin Fonzo of The K Restaurant,

FOTO5639FOTO5638

and Brandade Fritter made by Chef James Petrakis of The Ravenous Pig.

FOTO5675FOTO5672

We ended our evening with one of my personal favorites, an Caramel Apple Bread Pudding by Chef Julie Petrakis of The Cask & Larder.

FOTO5633FOTO5622

Ronald McDonald House is an amazing organization that provides a home away from home to families with children receiving treatment at local hospitals and medical facilities in Orlando.  I was introduced to this charity last year by Chris Muszynski through their Share-A-Meal program, where small groups come out and cook lunch or dinner for the families staying in the house. What a rewarding experience it was for me to be able to help prepare a meal and see it being so appreciated by so many families. And now I am so happy to see this organization creating another opportunity for our community to get involved and give back. Thank you so much to Chefs Julie & James Petrakis, Chef Kevin Fonzo, Chef Kathleen Blake and all of the chefs participating in this great event, to the volunteers, and to all of the attendees of the Appetite for the Arches on March 1st.

Recipe For Success

Today I attended an open house at the Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts located right here in Orlando. I watched a few demonstrations by the faculty chefs on how to make Valentine’s Day favorites, such as chocolate truffles and an amazing chocolate mousse.  But most importantly, I learned how this college can help their students to succeed in their careers after graduation. Over the years Le Cordon Bleu has developed strong relationships with the community and partnerships with local businesses, which is a key in job placement.  So, if you’ve ever dreamed of becoming a chef, this is certainly the place to check out.

Russian Borscht – Русский Борщ

To maximize your experience watching opening ceremony of the 2014 Winter Olympic Games in Sochi, Russia, try this traditional recipe of Russian Borscht. For the next few weeks, we will bring you several classical Russian delights. If you never tried any of them make sure to take this opportunity and treat yourselves like Olympians.

Highlights from Tony Roma’s NEW Fire Grill & Lounge

Orlando bloggers including Celebritychef4u.com had an opportunity to try amazing new food at Tony Roma’s by the Airport in Orlando. Here are highlights from this wonderful event featuring Chef and Executive Director of Culinary Operations Bob Gallagher. Special thanks to Sunshine Woodyard Baker and the welcoming staff of Tony Roma’s, you’ve made it truly special experience.

Tony Roma’s NEW Fire Grill & Lounge

Photo by Irina PabisCelebrity Chef and Executive Director of Culinary Operations, Bob Gallagher is introducing his brand new menu and renovated restaurant at Tony Roma’s by the Orlando International Airport.

Photo by Irina Pabis-2What an amazing evening at Tony Roma’s. Special thanks to the welcoming staff, you’ve made it truly special experience.

Tony Roma's Fire Grill & Lounge on Urbanspoon