Pinos Sandwiches/Salumeria Verdi in Firenze (Florence)

1 Uber ride, 2 long flights, and 2 train rides and we're finally in Firenze (Florence). Last night my parents, Bryce, and I settled into our hotel and kept ourselves moving in an effort to ward off the jet lag and any spur of the moment naps! We had our first true Italian meal at Pinos Sandwiches/Salumeria Verdi. 

Mountain Pies

We are getting used to this 'living on the mainland again' thing, my friends. First, the fact that it's summer and that means a change in the weather is a relatively new concept. Second, we've been exploring this 'bigger' island with road trips, quick flights, weekend getaways, and camping.

Primanti's 2012

During my first several years living in Hawaii, it became routine for me to fly into Pittsburgh and head directly to Primanti Brothers for their infamous sandwich. This trip to Da Burgh it took me almost 48 hours to get there! Bryce and I met my cousin Eric for lunch on Monday, the 3rd day of our trip. [Day 1 involved flying and a lot of bad food; Day 2 a deliciously adorable bridal shower.]

Surely you've heard of the "Pittsburgh style" sandwiches on TV before or, if nothing else, earlier on Aloha: Yinz Mangia! It's fresh Italian bread piled high with your choice of protein, cole slaw, french fries, and tomato. It's odd, delicious, and something you can't forget about once you've had one.

There are locations of Primanti's all over Pittsburgh, leaking their way across Pennsylvania, and even a few in Florida! Although not the original, we usually go to the one nearest to my folks' house on route 60.

B[LT] My Valentine and Italian Cream Cake

Happy Valentine's Day!

This year's day-o-love was anything but typical for Bryce and I (especially compared to last year's at-home FEAST and clever and athletic dessert).

First, we decided not to buy gifts. I owe him a 20 minute back massage and he agreed to see a chick-flick with me, The Vow! Good deal.

Second, we could only be together for lunch! Rather than make a full dinner-type meal, I made one of his favorite lunches: a BLT sandwich on sourdough bread.

Turkey and Lentil Burgers

December's issue of Everyday Food is a great one! This is just one of many recipes I've made from it.

The original recipe is for burgers made with lentils and ground chicken, but I used turkey since we had some in the freezer.

Turkey and Lentil Burger
adapted from Everyday Foods' Chicken and Lentil Burger

S'more Camping Food

On of the best parts about living in Hawaii is camping on (or very close to) the beach!  Over Labor Day weekend my friends and I went camping in Waimanalo, on the East side of Oahu.  We spent our days hanging out on the beach, relaxing, and of course eating!

The campsite is right on the beach.  The ocean is literally just steps away.  

View to my right!

View to my left!