Nobody wants to be stuck in a kitchen when they could be soaking up the sunshine. Who knows what the summer will bring, but right now most of the warmer-weather activities we look forward to are off the table. So how to resist the siren call of Netflix, day after day? What can lure you out of your sweatpants and … into your nicer sweatpants? To help shake off your coronavirus ennui get outside as the weather warms up! What better way to warm up outside than with picnics or backyard barbeque. So this summer, we’re sticking to side dishes that can be easily made in advance or thrown together fast. Whether you’re looking for something to snack on while the grill heats up or gearing up for a picnic marathon, these Nico dishes will have your back.
Grilled Shrimp Over Field Greens
This is the summery grilled shrimp salad you could eat plate after plate of without feeling like you’ve downed a jar of mayonnaise! Tender grilled shrimp over, crisp field greens, wild field greens, granny smith apples, cranberries, goat cheese, and creamy mango vinaigrette in every bite.
Arancini
These crispy, crackly rice fritters take inspiration from the traditional southern Italian homes. Perfect balls of left-over risotto, stuffed and ‘crumbed to make tasty rice balls – perfect for a snack, lunch box, dinner and whatever you want to make of it! Blended mozzarella, beef, peas, and San Marzano tomato sauce.
Caprese
Normally served as an antipasto, this Neapolitan classic named after the island of Capri is loved the world over for its simplicity and freshness. It’s even become a symbol of Italian cuisine thanks to its color palate, which mimicks the Italian flag. Thick slices of tomato are interwoven with slices of fresh buffalo mozzarella, tomatoes, fresh basil, EVOO and balsamic glaze.
Rollatini di Nico
Lush, tender, and brightly flavored, lightly-breaded eggplant, spinach, mozzarella, fresh ricotta, and San Marzano Plum tomatoes. You’ll devour the entire platter — with no help from others needed. Try it out for yourself and you’ll understand why.
Peperoni Ripieni
There’s a huge texture thing going on here with silky, smoky charred peppers and crisp Italian Sausage and broccoli rabe.
What better time to remind yourself of the days eating out at Nico Ristorante. Summer food has always been everyone’s favorite. Enjoy the summer just a little different this year. Try some of our tasty side dishes for the perfect backyard barbeque or picnic.
