Frank Picchione

Puerto Vallarta Orange

The Puerto Vallarta sunsets over the Pacific are breathtaking. I took these photos during Chris and Camilla's beachside rehearsal dinner.

Puerto Vallarta Blue

The blue view from Casa del Quetzal's pool, high up in Puerto Vallarta.

Vegetable Soup

With carrots, turnips, leeks, garlic, spinach and parsley.

2011 Top Ten Worst Zoos for Elephants

In Defense Of Animals Releases 2011 "Ten Worst Zoos For Elephants" List.

San Rafael, Calif. (January 16, 2012) - The 2011 list of the Ten Worst Zoos for Elephants, released today by In Defense of Animals (IDA), once again exposes the hidden suffering of elephants in zoos, where lack of space, unsuitably cold climates and unnatural conditions condemn Earth’s largest land mammals to lifetimes of deprivation, disease and early death. The list is in its eighth year.

Shirataki Noodle Soup with Scallops & Squid

These shirataki noodles come in a variety of shapes and are a great, almost calorie-free, alternative to pasta. I think they work best in soups. Here I combined them with scallops, squid, bok choy, shiitake mushrooms, scallions, saffron and cilantro for a light Asian meal. These mexican fish bowls made the perfect presentation.

Thistle & Roses

Palatine Hill, Rome

Rome's Palatine Hill, with its views of the Forum below and the Colosseum in the distance, is one of the most beautiful, peaceful places I have ever been. I wandered for hours in the hot sun, among the citrus trees and olive groves, and never wanted to leave.

Lentil & Quinoa Burgers

These burgers are equal parts lentils and quinoa. They are loaded with protein and fiber, and are very low in fat. I left half of the lentils whole for texure and pureed the remainder. I also mixed in sauteed onions and jalapeños, cumin and chopped cilantro before browning them in a hot oven. Avocado and lime juice made a nice topping, but I might have preferred melted soy cheese and a soft bun.

Giselle & Kithaka

This past Friday, January 13th, Giselle Bundchen visited the David Sheldrick Wild Trust's Nairobi nursery. Here is a nice photo of her being upstaged by our little Kithaka. Hopefully high profile visitors like Giselle will help draw much needed attention.   And here is the newest picture of Kithaka chewing on the end of someone's umbrella.

Moist Red Snapper

Roasted in parchment with ginger, cilantro and lime.