Ingredients For the Sponge Cake: 4 large eggs, separated 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar (for egg whites) 1 tsp pure vanilla extract 1/3 cup (40g) all-purpose flour 1/3 cup (35g) unsweetened cocoa powder 1/2 tsp baking powder 1/4 tsp salt For the Filling: 1 cup (240ml) heavy whipping cream, chilled 2 tbsp powdered sugar 1 tsp pure vanilla extract For the Chocolate Ganache Frosting: 1 cup (170g) semisweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream 1 tsp unsalted butter (optional, for shine) For Decoration (Optional): Powdered sugar (for "snow") Chocolate shavings, berries, or sprigs of rosemary (for a festive touch) Instructions Step 1: Prepare the Sponge Cake Preheat the Oven : Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 10x15-inch (25x38 cm) jelly roll pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. Whip the Egg Yolks : In a large bowl, whisk egg yolks and 1/2 cup sugar until thick and pale y...
Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing 🍝 This colorful and zesty pasta salad combines rotini pasta with fresh vegetables and mozzarella balls, all tossed in a flavorful Italian vinaigrette. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or quick lunches! Ingredients: 12 oz rotini pasta (or any short pasta) 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved 1 cucumber, diced 1 cup black or green olives, sliced 1 cup mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini) ¼ red onion, thinly sliced ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped For the Italian Dressing: ½ cup extra virgin olive oil ¼ cup red wine vinegar 1 tsp Dijon mustard 1 garlic clove, minced 1 tsp dried oregano ½ tsp sugar (optional) Salt and black pepper to taste Instructions: Step 1: Cook the Pasta Boil the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking and cool the pasta. Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables Slice the cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives. Thinly slice the red onion and chop the parsley. Step 3: Mak...