Unique Gifts for the Holidays and Other Special Occasions at O’Live A Little

We have more than just Olive Oil – Amazing Gift Baskets made to impressIs it just us? Or do the holidays get busier and “crazier” every year!?It never hurts to have some creative ideas to turn to in the waning days before the big celebrations begin. If you have a loved one who happens to be a “foodie”, our stores in South Windsor and Canton have an eclectic selection of delicacies from around the world.Need something to impress that certain host or hostess who has “everything”? Perhaps you could use some “out-of-the-ordinary” gift baskets to thank business clients and “A-List”...

Read more

Picnics Have A History Dating Back to the 15th Century!

A little elegance and a little outdoor dining and wine can be a wonderful change of pace this time of year.If you’re a fan of “traditional outings”, a reader of Jane Austin’s Emma and other literature, or if you’re like us and are old enough to remember classic cinema and vintage TV, then you’ll have a pretty good picture in your mind of the quintessential Summer picnic.A checkered blanket, a picnic basket, an array of fine cheeses, and maybe a light refreshing wine.Ahh, nostalgia...That scene could be painted with a romantic couple or a whole family gathered together, dining al...

Read more

Parmesan Cheese – Specialty Cheese or Wanted Commodity?

Would you believe that Parmesan cheese is an interest to the Italian Mafia? According to Wikipedia, between 2013 and 2015, over two thousand wheels of cheese were stolen from warehouses in northern and central Italy. A condiment so many of us take for granted as we sprinkle or grate it over salads, soups, pasta, pizza, and toasted bread is something being highjacked by organized crime gangs in Italy!Legally labeled “Parmigiana-Reggiano”, authentic Parmesan is only allowed to be produced and called by its name in certain provinces within Italy. Since it is often called the “King of Cheeses”, Italian law takes...

Read more

Fromage Fort- The Most Delicious Cheese Spread!

If you are like us, in your fridge, you probably have leftover bits of various cheeses. You know.. that 2" piece of Brie, the 1/4# of Taleggio, a smidgen of aged cheddar, that leftover little wedge of the new goat cheese you bought over the weekend. Well, never fear, with this recipe, none of your cheese will go to waste. In a quick ten minutes, you can have this most delicious cheese spread whipped up!Ingredients ½ pound of cheese pieces 1 garlic clove 1/4 cup dry white wine 1-2-Tablespoons of your favorite chopped fresh herbs (if desired) Fresh crushed black...

Read more