Gigi Gaggero

Right now is about the time, the holidays roll in, and the warm scent of gingerbread fills kitchens everywhere — often in the form of cheerful little men with gumdrop buttons. But the magic of gingerbread goes far beyond cookies and candy-covered houses. This beloved spice blend can transform everything from cakes to pancakes into irresistible seasonal treats. Gingerbread’s story begins in the 10th century, when Armenian monk Gregory of Nicopolis introduced the recipe to Europe.

First, you need fresh seasonal tomatoes. Any tomatoes will do, but I prefer rich red heirlooms because they are large and extra juicy and meaty- not to mention low on seeds. Romas are fine, but they tend to be firmer and the juices released by the large, soft tomatoes are perfect for making homemade bloody mary mix. For an extra kick, I roast them on the grill but that is optional.

When it comes to kitchen gadgets, one of my biggest frustrations is the sheer number of unnecessary tools that retailers offer. Personally, I always reach for my chef’s knife because it can handle so many tasks so well. Here’s the truth: it’s best to invest in gadgets that serve a specific purpose that no other tool can do. I keep it simple at home with just my chef’s knife, a paring knife, a whisk, a high-heat spatula, my two hands, and a bench scraper.