The Pittsburgh Dish

Imagine biting into the perfect slice of pizza, but instead of just savoring the flavors, you spark a social media idea that unites food lovers citywide. That's exactly what happened to Ashley Cesaratto, co-founder of the Pittsburgh Foodies Facebook group, who joins us for a mouthwatering discussion about the city's culinary landscape. As we trace Ashley's path from music to influential foodie, we uncover the secrets behind managing an online community and the power of personal connections in recommending the best eateries and cooking advice.
Ashley shares her experience stepping into the media spotlight, from a serendipitous Instagram comment to tasting the local limelight on "Talk Pittsburgh," we explore the prep and passion that goes into a few minutes of screen time. Ashley's tales from her guest spots on podcasts, like "Lunchtime in Rome," serve up a delicious blend of personal narrative and culinary delight. Finally, we get personal with holiday food memories and reinventions of the traditional feast. We chat about Ashley's family recipes and how a simple dish can become a treasure trove of nostalgia.
Love a good wine suggestion? We also discuss which Italian vintages are the perfect companions to beloved pasta dishes, and then share a completely new take on lasagna for our recipe of the week. Whether you're a cooking enthusiast looking to perfect your meatball game or a baking aficionado curious about pavlova, this episode has the ingredients for a delightful culinary adventure. So, buckle up your apron and join us for a taste of Pittsburgh and beyond, right here at the table of shared stories and savory delights.

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When Desarae Legros steps into the kitchen, it's not just about the sizzle of the pan but the laughter that fills the room. She joins us this episode, spicing up our conversation with her journey to cookbook author and TikTok culinary sensation, blending cooking prowess with a hefty dose of humor. We unwrap the pages of her life, with candid tales of resilience and tradition, seasoned with the realities of dealing with disability, loss, and the pressures of social media.
The heat turns up as we navigate Desarae's love of molecular gastronomy, culinary competitions, as well as the heartwarming narrative behind a family burger recipe that's much more than a sum of its ingredients.
Closing the lid on our gastronomic journey, we reflect on authenticity and connection beyond the screen. Desiree's commitment to uplifting small businesses and championing community initiatives, like Lasagna Love's mission to feed the hungry, fuels a conversation on the power of food to unite and heal. Her plans for a new barbecue-themed cookbook promise not just to fire up the grill but also to kindle a spirit of giving.
Later, we serve up a recommendation for tacos at one of Pittsburgh's neighborhood gems, and revisit the classic Strawberry Jell-O® Pretzel Salad recipe, ensuring that our listeners leave with their appetites—both for food and life—fully whetted.

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When Chef Janet Loughran wheels her way into our hearts, she's not just pulling along a red wagon filled with culinary delights; she's carting a lifetime of poignant stories and robust flavors. Her journey from distributing home-cooked comforts during the throes of a pandemic to becoming the private chef every Pittsburgher would want—it's a testament to genuine passion and a hearty wedding soup.
Transitioning from a clerical assistant to a culinary artist is no easy feat, but with a pinch of courage and a cup of determination, Janet found her true calling amidst the sizzle and chop of the kitchen. The journey has been as flavorful as it has challenging, from navigating the dynamics of team collaboration in a high-pressure culinary environment to becoming the food and beverage director at a local golf course, and now serving as your friendly kitchen fact finder on her Instagram, @Chef.Life.Hacks!
Later in the show... Looking for some soul in your food. We spotlight the soulful A&E Eatz where every dish promises a story as rich and satisfying as the flavors on your plate. Plus we share a halushki recipe, where the noodles never mush out , and plenty of butter is the key. All this week!

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(00:58) Shayla Penn of Burgh Eats and Treats! graces our podcast with tales that extend beyond the plate, spotlighting the undeniable truth that food is the golden thread in the fabric of our communities.
(14:28) This episode isn't just a tasting menu; it's a celebration of places and faces that define our culinary landscape. You'll hear about the 'Burgh Eats and Treats!' Facebook Group's dramatic influence on local eateries like Gabriella's, where the perfect fish shout-out can make all the difference. And as palates expand, so do our connections, with Shayla's story underscoring how a shared meal can turn strangers into family.
(31:30) As we plate up the final course, we'll talk about the art of pairing the perfect wine with succulent dishes, specifically lamb chops. Catherine brings her expertise to the table, discussing the harmony found in a bottle of Bordeaux blend.
(37:42) To sweeten the send-off, Jeff's peach bread recipe promises to turn your kitchen into the most beloved bakery on the block. So, ready your forks and tune in for an episode that's as rich and satisfying as the perfect bite.

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Paul Abbott from Giant Eagle Market District joins our table, and he's not coming empty-handed. He's here to unpack the journey of local food producers, from crafting their unique flavors right through to the moment their products hit the shelves. From the delight of tasting Pittsburgh's own Leona's Ice Cream Sandwiches or savoring La Familia's pasta sauce, knowing you're supporting the heartbeat of our food community. Our conversation with Paul reveals the dedication behind Market District's role in partnering with these culinary gems and how the relationships enrich our local food culture.
Get ready to pull back the curtain on what it takes for a product to go from concept to consumer. Through stories like a local salsa brand's rise to fame, we highlight the intertwined paths of personal dedication and community support that mark the success of Pittsburgh's food artisans. Learn how feedback and relationships are crucial in navigating the retail landscape, and discover the surprising ways that store leaders and team members scout for potential products that might just be the next big thing on your dinner table.
Finally, because we believe the soul of Pittsburgh is best experienced through many voices, food enthusiast Raquel Holiday and listener Eric P share notable food favorites – from comforting White Spaghetti with Breadcrumbs to the delectable mix of Mexican cuisine and frozen custard. Pull up a chair and prepare to indulge in the stories and tastes that define our vibrant culinary scene.

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Liked the episode? We'd love a coffee!