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Prosciutto, Cantaloupe & Burrata Salad with Pistachio Basil Vinaigrette

7/9/2025

This refreshing Prosciutto, Cantaloupe & Burrata Salad is a vibrant blend of sweet, salty, and creamy flavors—perfect for warm days or elegant entertaining. Juicy cantaloupe ribbons pair beautifully with delicate prosciutto and creamy burrata, while red onion, pistachios, and fresh basil add texture and depth. Finished with a homemade pistachio basil vinaigrette, this salad is as visually stunning as it is delicious.

**This post may contain affiliate links. I receive a small amount of compensation when you purchase from my links which help to keep this blog running.**

Prosciutto, Cantaloupe & Burrata Salad with Pistachio Basil Vinaigrette
Yields 2-3 servings

Salad Ingredients:
1/2 medium cantaloupe, thinly sliced or ribboned
4–6 slices of prosciutto
1 ball of burrata cheese (or 3–4 small dollops)
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
2–3 Tbsp shelled pistachios, roughly chopped
A handful of sunflower sprouts or microgreens
4–5 fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced (chiffonade)

Ingredients for Pistachio Basil Vinaigrette:
2 Tbsp shelled pistachios
1 small garlic clove
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp honey (or maple syrup)
2 Tbsp white balsamic vinegar (or lemon juice)
1/4 cup olive oil
1–2 Tbsp fresh basil leaves
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Blend all ingredients until smooth and creamy. Adjust salt, vinegar, or honey to balance the flavor.

Assembly:
On a large plate or platter, gently layer cantaloupe ribbons with prosciutto slices.

Add dollops or torn pieces of burrata throughout.

Scatter red onion slices, pistachios, and sunflower sprouts on top.

Drizzle with pistachio basil vinaigrette.

Finish with a sprinkle of fresh basil and a few extra pistachios if desired.

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Heirloom Tomato, Avocado & Burrata Salad with Pine Nut Basil Vinaigrette

7/2/2025

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Inspired by the abundance of summer produce and the creamy indulgence of burrata, this vibrant salad is a celebration of color, texture, and flavor. Juicy heirloom tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, buttery avocado, and fragrant basil are all brought together with a tangy homemade basil vinaigrette. Topped with pillowy dollops of burrata and a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts for crunch, it’s a dish that feels both elevated and effortless. Perfect for warm days or when you’re craving something light yet satisfying, this salad is as beautiful to look at as it is delicious to eat.

**This post may contain affiliate links. I receive a small amount of compensation when you purchase from my links which help to keep this blog running.**

Heirloom Tomato, Avocado & Burrata Salad with Pine Nut Basil Vinaigrette
Yields 2-3 Servings

Salad Ingredients:
1 cup mixed heirloom cherry tomatoes, halved (yellow, red, and orange)
1 Persian cucumber, thinly sliced
1 ripe avocado, diced
1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced
1 ball of burrata cheese, torn into chunks
1–2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts
4–6 basil leaves, chiffonade (thinly sliced)
Sea salt & freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

Ingredients for Basil Vinaigrette Dressing:
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
1 garlic clove, minced
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
Salt & pepper to taste

Directions:

Make the Dressing:
Combine olive oil, vinegar, mustard, honey, garlic, basil, salt, and pepper in a small jar or blender. Shake or blend until creamy and emulsified.
Assemble the Salad:
In a mixing bowl, gently toss the tomatoes, cucumber, avocado, onion, and basil with a few spoonfuls of the dressing.
Plate and Finish:
Divide the salad among plates. Top with torn burrata and sprinkle with pine nuts. Add a few more cracks of black pepper and a drizzle of dressing, if desired.

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Strawberry Pecan & Feta Salad

6/30/2025

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If you're craving a fresh, flavorful salad that perfectly balances sweet, tangy, and savory, this Strawberry Pecan & Feta Salad is a must-try! Inspired by a dish I once enjoyed at Longhorn Steakhouse, this homemade version features crisp romaine lettuce, juicy strawberries, bright citrus, crunchy pecans, and creamy feta, all brought together with a luscious strawberry vinaigrette. It’s vibrant, colorful, and bursting with taste—ideal for a light lunch, a side salad, or even a show-stopping starter for guests. Keep reading for the full recipe and dressing details!

**This post may contain affiliate links. I receive a small amount of compensation when you purchase from my links which help to keep this blog running.**

Strawberry Pecan & Feta Salad
Yields 2-3 servings

Ingredients:
4 cups chopped Romaine lettuce (or mixed greens)
1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
1 small orange or 1/2 cup mandarin orange segments (fresh or drained if canned)
1/4 cup pecans, chopped (toasted for extra flavor)
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese

Optional Add-ins:
Grilled chicken for protein
Avocado slices

Directions:

Wash and chop the lettuce. Place in a large bowl or arrange on plates.

Top with sliced strawberries, orange segments, red onion, pecans, and feta.

Drizzle with strawberry vinaigrette just before serving.

Creamy Strawberry Vinaigrette

Ingredients:
1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup)
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for a tangy kick)
1/4 teaspoon salt
2–3 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt (for creaminess, optional)
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

Directions:
In a blender, combine strawberries, vinegar, honey, mustard (if using), salt, and Greek yogurt.
Blend until smooth.
Slowly add the olive oil while blending to emulsify.
Taste and adjust sweetness, acidity, or salt as needed.

Tip: This vinaigrette can be stored in the fridge in a sealed jar for up to 4 days.

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Fernando Pessoa Museum

6/27/2025

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Visiting the Fernando Pessoa Museum in Lisbon, Portugal, is like stepping into the mind of one of the most enigmatic and influential writers of the 20th century. Located in the poet's former residence in the Campo de Ourique neighborhood, this museum offers visitors a chance to explore Pessoa's life, his work, and his unusual collaborations—including a fascinating story of how his involvement with Coca-Cola led to the drink being banned in Portugal.

**This post may contain affiliate links. I receive a small amount of compensation when you purchase from my links which help to keep this blog running.**

Discovering Fernando Pessoa’s World

Fernando Pessoa is often regarded as Portugal's greatest poet. Though he published only a few works in his lifetime, he left behind a treasure trove of writings that continue to captivate readers. The museum, set in the house where Pessoa lived from 1920 until his death in 1935, provides insight into the life and creative process of this remarkable writer. The rooms are preserved with original furniture and belongings, offering an intimate look at Pessoa’s everyday environment. His typewriter, books, and even his iconic round glasses are all on display, serving as a bridge to his world.

As visitors explore the museum, they are introduced to Pessoa’s "heteronyms," or alternate identities, each with a distinct writing style, personality, and worldview. Among his best-known heteronyms are Álvaro de Campos, Ricardo Reis, and Alberto Caeiro. The museum brings these characters to life through Pessoa's manuscripts, notebooks, and other artifacts, highlighting his innovative approach to poetry and prose.

The Coca-Cola Controversy

One of the museum’s most surprising exhibits is dedicated to Pessoa’s brief work with Coca-Cola. In the early 1920s, Coca-Cola was trying to enter the Portuguese market, hoping to attract new customers with its refreshing, fizzy drink. At the time, Pessoa was working as a translator and copywriter. When Coca-Cola’s representatives approached him to craft a tagline that would appeal to Portuguese consumers, he eagerly took on the job.

Pessoa came up with the line: "Primeiro estranha-se, depois entranha-se," which loosely translates to "First you find it strange, then it gets under your skin." His words were meant to capture Coca-Cola’s distinctive taste—a drink that might seem unusual at first but would quickly become addictive.

However, this tagline was met with suspicion by conservative Portuguese authorities. At the time, Portugal was under the Estado Novo regime, a dictatorial government led by António de Oliveira Salazar, who was wary of foreign influences and products that could disrupt traditional Portuguese values. The word "entranha-se," with its connotations of something seeping into the body or mind, was enough to raise red flags. Authorities interpreted it as suggesting Coca-Cola was addictive or even harmful.

In a twist of irony, Pessoa’s attempt to make Coca-Cola appealing led to the exact opposite effect. The Portuguese government banned Coca-Cola in 1927, citing concerns over public health and morals. This ban lasted until 1977, making Portugal one of the last Western countries to allow Coca-Cola on store shelves.

A Literary Journey Through Lisbon

The Coca-Cola episode is just one example of Pessoa’s complex relationship with his city and country. While he was deeply rooted in Lisbon, his work was influenced by a sense of cosmopolitanism and modernity. His writing reflects Lisbon’s vibrant culture, but it also grapples with the tension between tradition and progress. Visitors to the museum can trace Pessoa’s footsteps through Lisbon, guided by his poems, letters, and essays that document his love for the city’s streets, cafes, and people.

One of the museum’s most popular activities is a self-guided "Pessoa Walking Tour" through Lisbon. With a map provided by the museum, you can explore the cafes where Pessoa wrote, the squares he frequented, and the bookstores he visited. Stops include Café A Brasileira in the Chiado district, where a bronze statue of Pessoa sits outside, often surrounded by tourists snapping photos with one of Portugal’s literary icons.

Exploring Pessoa’s Influence and Legacy

Fernando Pessoa was not only a poet but also a mystic, philosopher, and lover of the occult. His interests ranged from astrology to mysticism, and these themes frequently appear in his work. The museum delves into this side of Pessoa’s life, showcasing rare books, astrological charts, and personal items that reveal his spiritual pursuits. For those interested in the intersection of art, mysticism, and psychology, this aspect of the museum provides a fascinating look at how Pessoa’s beliefs influenced his writing.

The Fernando Pessoa Museum also hosts temporary exhibitions, workshops, and readings. These events attract scholars, poets, and literary enthusiasts from around the world who come to celebrate Pessoa’s enduring influence on literature and culture. His impact stretches far beyond Portugal; today, Pessoa is considered a foundational figure in modernist literature, inspiring writers and artists globally.

Practical Information for Visiting

The Fernando Pessoa Museum is open year-round, though hours vary slightly by season. It’s advisable to check the museum's website for current opening times. Tickets are reasonably priced, and discounts are available for students, seniors, and families. Guided tours are also offered in multiple languages, providing deeper insights into Pessoa’s life and work.
The museum shop is a treat for literary fans, offering a selection of Pessoa’s books, translated into several languages, as well as souvenirs like notebooks, postcards, and even a replica of his iconic round glasses. There’s also a small cafe where visitors can relax, sip coffee, and ponder the poet’s words.

Why Visit the Fernando Pessoa Museum?

Visiting the Fernando Pessoa Museum is more than a simple literary pilgrimage. It’s an exploration of the life, creativity, and contradictions of a man who remains one of Portugal’s greatest cultural icons. Through his poetry, prose, and even his failed Coca-Cola slogan, Pessoa left an indelible mark on Portuguese culture. His work continues to resonate, offering insight into universal themes of identity, belonging, and the nature of reality.
For fans of literature, history, or simply those curious about the man who brought Coca-Cola to a halt in Portugal, the Fernando Pessoa Museum is an unforgettable stop on any trip to Lisbon.

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Best Museums in Lisbon

6/23/2025

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Lisbon, a city rich in history and culture, boasts an array of museums that offer insights into its artistic heritage, royal traditions, and musical legacy. Whether you're an art enthusiast, history buff, or music lover, these top five museums are must-visits on your Lisbon itinerary.

**This post may contain affiliate links. I receive a small amount of compensation when you purchase from my links which help to keep this blog running.**

1. National Tile Museum (Museu Nacional do Azulejo)
Housed in the 16th-century Madre de Deus Convent, the National Tile Museum showcases Portugal's unique azulejo (tile) art form. The collection spans from the 15th century to contemporary works, illustrating the evolution of this decorative art. Highlights include a panoramic tile panel depicting Lisbon before the 1755 earthquake.

Location: Rua da Madre de Deus 4, 1900-312 Lisbon
Getting There: Take bus 728 or 759 to the "Igreja Madre Deus" stop
Cost: €10 for adults; free with the Lisboa Card

2. Calouste Gulbenkian Museum
This museum houses the private collection of Calouste Gulbenkian, featuring over 6,000 pieces of art from ancient Egypt to 20th-century Europe. Visitors can admire works by Rembrandt, Monet, and René Lalique, among others.

Location: Avenida de Berna 45A, 1067-001 Lisbon
Getting There: Metro lines Blue or Red to São Sebastião station; buses 713, 716, 726, 742, 746, 756 .
Cost: €10 for adults; free entry on Sundays after 2 PM

3. National Coach Museum (Museu Nacional dos Coches)
Located in the Belém district, the National Coach Museum boasts one of the world's finest collections of royal carriages, dating from the 16th to the 19th centuries. The opulent vehicles offer a glimpse into the grandeur of Portugal's monarchical past.

Location: Avenida da Índia 136, 1300-300 Lisbon
Getting There: Train to Belém station (Cascais line); tram 15E; bus 728
Cost: €15 for adults; discounts available for seniors and students

4. Fado Museum (Museu do Fado)
Dedicated to Portugal's traditional music genre, the Fado Museum explores the history and significance of fado through multimedia exhibits, including recordings, photographs, and instruments. It's an immersive experience into the soul of Portuguese culture.

Location: Largo do Chafariz de Dentro 1, 1100-139 Lisbon
Getting There: Bus lines 728, 735, 759, 794; metro to Santa Apolónia station
Cost: €5 for adults; discounts for youths, seniors, and Lisboa Card holders

5. National Museum of Ancient Art (Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga)
As Portugal's premier art museum, it houses an extensive collection of European paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts from the Middle Ages to the early 19th century. Notable works include pieces by Hieronymus Bosch and Albrecht Dürer.

Location: Rua das Janelas Verdes, 1249-017 Lisbon
Getting There: Bus lines 713, 714, 727, 728, 732, 760; tram 15E, 18E, 25E .
Cost: €10 for adults; free for children under 12; discounts for students and seniors

Exploring these museums offers a comprehensive understanding of Lisbon's artistic and cultural heritage. To make the most of your visit, consider purchasing the Lisboa Card, which provides free or discounted entry to many attractions, along with unlimited public transportation.

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<<Previous

Prosciutto, Cantaloupe & Burrata Salad with Pistachio Basil Vinaigrette

Heirloom Tomato, Avocado & Burrata Salad with Pine Nut Basil Vinaigrette

Strawberry Pecan & Feta Salad

Fernando Pessoa Museum

Discovering Fernando Pessoa’s World

The Coca-Cola Controversy

A Literary Journey Through Lisbon

Exploring Pessoa’s Influence and Legacy

Practical Information for Visiting

Why Visit the Fernando Pessoa Museum?

Best Museums in Lisbon

Linda Roisum

Archives

Categories

Prosciutto, Cantaloupe & Burrata Salad with Pistachio Basil Vinaigrette

Heirloom Tomato, Avocado & Burrata Salad with Pine Nut Basil Vinaigrette

Strawberry Pecan & Feta Salad

Fernando Pessoa Museum

​Discovering Fernando Pessoa’s World

​The Coca-Cola Controversy

​A Literary Journey Through Lisbon

​Exploring Pessoa’s Influence and Legacy

Practical Information for Visiting

​Why Visit the Fernando Pessoa Museum?

Best Museums in Lisbon

Linda Roisum

Archives

Categories

Discovering Fernando Pessoa’s World

The Coca-Cola Controversy

A Literary Journey Through Lisbon

Exploring Pessoa’s Influence and Legacy

Why Visit the Fernando Pessoa Museum?