August on the lake
August on Lake Como is a vibrant blend of sunshine, crystal-clear waters, and an abundance of seasonal delights. This month, we invite you to explore the beautiful lidos of Lake Como, perfect for soaking up the sun, enjoying the water, and experiencing the local culture. Discover these lakeside gems and savor the flavors of the season with our featured ingredient.
Exploring the lidos of Lake Como
Lake Como’s lidos offer the perfect setting for relaxation and fun. Here are the top five lidos you shouldn’t miss:
Lido di Bellagio: Nestled in the heart of Bellagio, this lido is a favorite among both locals and tourists. With its sandy beach and elegant sun loungers, it’s an ideal spot to unwind. Enjoy delicious food and drinks at the beachside bar and bistro while you take in the stunning lake views.
Lido di Menaggio: Recently revamped, Lido di Menaggio now boasts modern facilities and an enhanced beach area. With a spacious swimming pool, elegant sunbathing areas, and a variety of water sports activities, it’s perfect for families and those looking to indulge in some lakeside fun. The on-site restaurant offers delicious local cuisine, making it a great spot to spend the entire day.
Lido di Faggeto: Situated in a picturesque location, Lido di Faggeto features an area with direct lake access, a charming beach bar, and a wonderful restaurant offering local dishes. It’s a fantastic spot to spend a leisurely day by the water, surrounded by stunning scenery.
Lido di Cernobbio: Located in the elegant town of Cernobbio, this lido offers a beautiful beach area with sun loungers and umbrellas, and a delightful restaurant serving a range of local and international dishes. It’s a great spot to relax and enjoy the scenic beauty of Lake Como.
Lido di Villa Olmo: This historic lido, located near the magnificent Villa Olmo in Como, offers a unique blend of cultural and recreational activities. Enjoy the beautiful gardens, take a dip in the lake, and savor delicious meals at the on-site restaurant.
Ingredient of the Month: Figs
August is the perfect time to enjoy fresh figs in Northern Italy. These sweet and juicy fruits are at their peak, offering a burst of flavor that enhances both savory and sweet dishes. Here are a few delicious ways to enjoy figs in traditional Italian cuisine:
Prosciutto e Fichi: A classic Italian appetizer featuring fresh figs wrapped in thin slices of prosciutto. The sweet and salty combination is simply irresistible.
Insalata di Fichi e Formaggio di Capra: A refreshing salad with mixed greens, fresh figs, crumbled goat cheese, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. It’s a perfect starter or light meal.
Fichi al Forno: Baked figs stuffed with gorgonzola cheese and drizzled with honey, then topped with crushed walnuts. This dish makes for an elegant appetizer or a light dessert.
Crostini con Fichi: Toasted bread topped with creamy ricotta, fresh figs, a sprinkle of thyme, and a drizzle of honey. Perfect as a savory-sweet appetizer.
RECIPE OF THE MONTH: Fig and Almond Tart
Indulge in the flavors of late summer with our Fig and Almond Tart, a harmonious blend of the juicy sweetness of ripe figs and the rich butteriness of almond filling, all encased in a melt-in-the-mouth puff pastry. This simple yet elegant dessert captures the essence of Italian culinary tradition. Perfect for a special occasion or a leisurely afternoon treat by the lake, this tart is sure to impress your guests and delight your taste buds.
Ingredients:
1 sheet of puff pastry
8-10 fresh figs, halved
1 cup almond flour
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup butter, softened
2 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon almond extract
Honey for drizzling
Sliced almonds for garnish
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Roll out the puff pastry on a tart pan and trim the edges.
In a bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Stir in the almond flour, vanilla extract, and almond extract until well combined.
Spread the almond mixture evenly over the puff pastry.
Arrange the fig halves on top of the almond mixture, cut side up.
Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with sliced almonds.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the pastry is golden and the figs are tender.
Let the tart cool slightly before serving.
Pair this tart with a glass of Moscato d’Asti, a sweet and bubbly wine that complements the rich flavors of the figs and almonds.
We look forward to sharing more culinary adventures with you next month!
See you on the lake,
The Lake Como Kitchen Experience Team