Indoor

By Carolyn Howard
PassPort to San Diego

If you have never been to Coronado Taste of Oils, at 954 Orange Ave. in Coronado, I highly recommend it. If you have never tried their monthly cooking-class demonstration, you are missing out! It is not only affordable at $25/person, but patrons go home stuffed on high-quality food, a 60-ml bottle of both the olive oil and balsamic vinegar featured in the cooking class along with the recipes of the food and drink consumed. There is a maximum of 30 people per demo, so you must reserve your spot. Guests also receive a 10 percent discount off any purchases made that day.

Michelle teaches the class and is a wealth of tips and information. Her demonstration is casual and interactive. During the class I attended, the featured flavors included the Persian Lime Oil and a Violet Balsamic vinegar.

We began with a Violet Gin Spritzer, which was deliciously refreshing. The drinks were creative and unique, as I would never think to have added flavored balsamic to a cocktail.

The appetizer was a Savory Asparagus Crepe. We used both the Persian Lime Oil and the Violet Balsamic in this recipe. The food is already prepared for you, so you aren’t actually doing the cooking, but instead, watching Michelle while she provides tips and answers questions. The crepes were flavorful and Michelle offered ideas for different filling options.

Our main dish included Persian Lime and Violet Turkey Skewers and Basmati Rice. This dish was mouthwatering with tender turkey and fresh, tender vegetables on a bed of fragrant basmati rice. I noticed how healthy and fresh the ingredients we used were and how flavored oils and balsamic vinegar can really turn a ho-hum dish into something special.

Last, but not least, was dessert. Although I was already satisfied with my savory meal, I couldn’t resist eating every last delectable bite of the Spring Time Persian Lime Ice Cream with Violet Balsamic. Homemade lime ice cream was assembled in a clay flower pot along with “dirt” served with a real flower sprouting up. It was a cute way to serve a dessert, and perfect for a kids party or bridal/baby shower.

I love to cook and the recipes are simple enough to make on your own. This imaginative and fun event is a great idea for a birthday gift, Mother’s Day, anniversary or a get-together with a group of friends. Michelle can also do private parties at your location. Sign up online at http://www.tasteofoils.com, stop by the store or call (619) 522-0098.