HAPPY THANKSGIVING

Greetings from Carmela's Cucina,

I know you all must be very busy this week getting ready for the biggest feast of the year. I love this holiday, because it is all about the food. No presents to think about, just the traditional foods that we have all come to love. You don't really even have to think about the menu that much as some things are a given.

I got off easy this year, we have been invited out, so all I have to do is bring the cranberry sauce and an appetizer. Since I was on Show Case Minnesota (www.kare11.com) last week and demonstrated an appetizer I will make the same one for our feast. It is quick and easy and I am going to share it with you, the best part is you can make it ahead and then just heat it up when you are going to serve it. Everyone at your gathering is going to love it.

Most importantly, I want to wish you a very Happy Thanksgiving, filled with family, friends and really good food.

Buon appetito,

Carmela Tursi Hobbins

BAKED STUFFED BRIE

1 large round of Brie Cheese
1/2 cup of chopped and peeled green apple
1/4 cup sliced almonds
1/4 cup dried craisins
1 tablespoon packed brown sugar
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
1 tablespoon melted butter
Box of crackers such as Carr Water Crackers

Mix everything together except the Brie. Slice the Brie horizontally in half. Put half of the mixture on the bottom half and cover with the top half and pour remaining mixture over the top. Bake in a 350 degree oven for about 20 minutes. Serve with crackers.