How to set up a cosy Italian brunch at home on a monsoon night in

As the Indian monsoon gears up in full swing, what could be better than to transport yourself to sunny Italy with a delightful homemade brunch? These recipes are not only delicious but also perfect for quick prep before you snuggle up for a movie marathon. So, put on your chef's hat and let's bring a taste of Italy to your cozy monsoon noon or night.

Panzanella salad

Ingredients
1 hard baguette (chopped), 1/2 red onion (thinly sliced), 1 red pepper (cubed), 1 yellow pepper (cubed), 2 ripe tomatoes (cubed), 1 tomato (pureed and strained), 4 tbsp apple cider vinegar, 1 tbsp capers, 2 tsp black olives (or anchovies) (finely chopped), 4 small cloves of garlic (crushed), 6 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, Small bunch of fresh basil

Method
Start by giving your onion slices a quick salt bath. While they're soaking, roast your peppers until charred to your liking. Now, let's hit that bread with some vinegar. Also whip up a zesty dressing with tomato juice, olive oil, garlic, and the leftover vinegar. Toss everything together in a bowl, drizzle with the dressing you made, and voila! A refreshing salad that's best-served cold and enjoyed while watching your favourite Italian film.

Penne poppers with tomato and cream cheese dip

Ingredients
1 cup chunky ragu sauce, ½ cup cream cheese, 1 cup penne pasta (boiled), ½ cup mixed cheese (grated), 1 1/2 tbsp mixed herbs, Salt and pepper as per taste, ½ cup refined flour, ½ cup onion (chopped), ½ cup bell pepper (finely chopped), Oil for frying

Method
Create a quick slurry by combining some flour, water, and seasonings over low heat. Next, stuff your penne with a cheesy veggie mix, then toss it into the slurry bath before frying to golden perfection. While that’s cooking, whip up a creamy tomato dip and get ready for some serious snacking. These poppers are so good, that you might forget about the movie!

Stuffed shell baked pasta

Ingredients for the pasta stuffing 
1 cup large shell-shaped pasta (boiled), ½ cup spinach (boiled), ¼ cup corn (boiled), 1 tbsp butter, 1 pinch mixed herbs, ½ cup cottage cheese or boiled chicken (crumbled), 1 tsp chilli flakes, 1 tsp mixed dried herbs, 2 tbsp parmesan cheese, 2 tbsp cheddar cheese, Lots of mozzarella cheese

Ingredients for spicy tomato sauce 
2 tbsp olive oil, 8 cloves of garlic (chopped), 1 can of Italian tomatoes, 3 bay leaves, 1/4 teaspoon red bell pepper (crushed), 1 packet basil leaves, 1 teaspoon sugar, Chilli flakes, salt and black pepper as per taste

Method
We’ll start by creating a heavenly tomato sauce that’s tangy, spicy, and all things delicious! For this, sauté garlic, until brown. Then add the tomatoes and spices, blend fully, and strain for a silky smooth sauce. Now, stuff your pasta shells with a combination of cheese and herbs. Nestle these stuffed shells in a baking dish, smother them with as much sauce as your heart desires, and cover it all with thick slices of mozzarella. Bake until it’s bubbly and golden. Serve hot and let the comfort food coma begin!

Image credits: Pexels

Also read: Hot monsoon munchies to cook for cool nights in
Also read: Warm indulgent desserts for a cool, monsoon day