3/4 cup full-fat sour cream 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice 2 tablespoons everything bagel seasoning, divided, plus more for garnish Kosher salt, to taste Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 large or 6 small Persian cucumbers, cut into 1/4-inch slices (about 5 cups) 4 scallions, ends trimmed and thinly sliced 1/2 medium red onion, thinly sliced 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill 1/4 cup capers, drained and rinsed
Make the dressing: In a small bowl, mix the sour cream, lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon of everything bagel seasoning. Season to taste with salt and black pepper. Stir and set aside.
Combine the vegetables: In a large bowl, add the cucumbers, scallions, onion, capers, dill, and remaining 1 tablespoon everything bagel seasoning—this seasoning stays crunchier than the seasoning in the dressing, which I love.
Dress the salad and serve: Add the dressing and mix to combine. Serve immediately. The salad is best eaten right away, but it will stay fresh for about 2 days refrigerated.
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or property in Virginia, we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “What is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, one of our expert advisors will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contacting Pat Licata. To view available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site. To view available properties in Northern and Central Virginia, visit our website at licatagroup.com.
Licata Group would like to extend a warm welcome to all the new homeowners! We often have really fun events hosted throughout the year, do frequent giveaways (think lotto scratchers, pies, FredNats tickets, just to name a few!), and also provide real estate market updates as well as local upcoming community events. We would like to take this opportunity to invite you to join our newsletter so you can never be without it! Sign up here. Or call our office at 540-388-2541.
Jeffery & Jacqueline Hunter
Nigel & Anne Goodwin
Judith Fahy
Edgar & Ghislaine Aguirre
Christopher Peck
Kristen Lynch
Linda Wight
David & Debra Ott
John & Mary Gibson
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or property in Virginia, we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “What is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, one of our expert advisors will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contacting Pat Licata. To view available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site. To view available properties in Northern and Central Virginia, visit our website at licatagroup.com.
We often think of Labor Day as the unofficial end of summer, signaling the beginning of the school year and fall sports, the end of festival season, fair seasons, and tourist season. Amid the family picnics, vacations, sporting events, and back-to-school routines, you may be wondering why we have a holiday to remind us of work. Let’s take a look at some interesting facts about the history of Labor Day.
The Beginnings Labor Day was officially established on the first Monday of September in both Canada and the USA in 1894, but the labor movement was well underway far before then. The first origins of Labor Day are attributed to a significant demonstration for worker’s rights by the Toronto Trades Assembly in 1872 where they petitioned for the release of 24 imprisoned leaders of the Toronto Typographical Union. At that time, trade unions were still illegal, and the 24 were arrested for striking to campaign for a nine-hour working day. There was wide public support for the parade, and more parades and demonstrations followed. Later that year (1872) laws against trade unions were repealed in Canada. Spring celebrations and demonstrations ensued as the labor movement gained momentum.
Parades and Picnics Labor Day has been celebrated with parades and picnics from the very beginning. In the 1880s, local workers and trade unions would have a street parade as a public demonstration of their solidarity and strength, followed by a public picnic with speeches campaigning for worker’s rights. Following a labor convention in New York in September 1882, labor organizations in the U.S. and Canada actively promoted workers’ celebrations, often held in September to take advantage of the perfect weather.
First Monday in September Although Worker’s Day is observed internationally on May 1, Canada and the United States celebrate Labor Day in September. Labor strikes were volatile and sometimes violent. In May of 1886, the Haymarket Affair in Chicago was particularly violent with several resulting deaths. As some labor leaders advocated to establish the national holiday in May, government officials were hesitant to establish a national holiday that seemed to commemorate such violent clashes. While spring celebrations took hold around the world, the U.S. and Canada opted to align the holiday with the existing local September celebrations, officially establishing Labor Day in 1894.
Today it’s easy to take so many of our rights for granted, Labor Day is a great opportunity to recall how hard-fought the workers’ rights we know today were.
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or property in Virginia, we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “What is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, one of our expert advisors will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contacting Pat Licata. To view available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site. To view available properties in Northern and Central Virginia, visit our website at licatagroup.com.
1 sold below $250,000.00 2 sold between $250,000-299,999; 1 sold between $300,000-349,999; 4 sold between $350,000-399,999; 7 sold between $400,000-499,999; 2 sold between $500,000-$999,999;
31 Active/Coming Soon Listings for Sale 11 Homes Under Contract 125 Homes Sold since January 1, 2024
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or property in Virginia, we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “What is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, one of our expert advisors will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contacting Pat Licata. To view available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site. To view available properties in Northern and Central Virginia, visit our website at licatagroup.com.
Charming 1949 Home with Endless Potential! Discover the charm of this adorable home built in 1949, offering 3 bedrooms and 1 bathroom across 1,832 square feet. Nestled on a spacious 3-acre lot, this property is a fantastic canvas for its new owners to make their own. While the home does require some TLC, its potential is undeniable. The expansive lot provides ample space for outdoor activities, gardening, or even future expansions. Embrace the opportunity to restore and personalize this lovely home to your taste. Don’t miss out on this rare find with so much potential! Schedule a viewing today and imagine the possibilities.
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or property in Virginia, we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “What is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, one of our expert advisors will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contacting Pat Licata. To view available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site. To view available properties in Northern and Central Virginia, visit our website at licatagroup.com.
Welcome back to our Italian Recipe Series! We’ve already enjoyed the creamy Spaghetti Carbonara and the comforting Chicken Parmesan. Now, it’s time to dive into one of Italy’s most iconic dishes: Lasagna. This hearty, layered pasta dish is perfect for family gatherings, special occasions, or a cozy night in. With rich meat sauce, creamy béchamel, and melted cheese, it’s a crowd-pleaser that never fails.
Classic Lasagna Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Meat Sauce:
1 lb (450g) ground beef
1 lb (450g) Italian sausage, casings removed
1 large onion, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 cans (28 oz each) of crushed tomatoes
1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1/2 cup red wine (optional)
2 tablespoons sugar
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (or 1 tablespoon dried basil)
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tablespoon dried parsley)
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Béchamel Sauce:
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
4 cups whole milk
A pinch of nutmeg
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Lasagna Layers:
12 lasagna noodles
16 oz (450g) ricotta cheese
1 large egg
3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
Prepare the Meat Sauce:
In a large pot, cook the ground beef and Italian sausage over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
Add the chopped onion and garlic, and cook until the onion is translucent.
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, red wine (if using), sugar, basil, parsley, salt, and pepper. Simmer the sauce on low heat for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Prepare the Béchamel Sauce:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute until it forms a paste.
Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.
Season with a pinch of nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat.
Cook the Lasagna Noodles:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the lasagna noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Ricotta Mixture:
In a medium bowl, mix the ricotta cheese with the egg until well combined. Set aside.
Assemble the Lasagna:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Place a layer of lasagna noodles on top of the sauce.
Spread a layer of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by a layer of béchamel sauce.
Sprinkle a portion of shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
Repeat the layers (meat sauce, noodles, ricotta mixture, béchamel, and cheeses) until all ingredients are used, ending with a final layer of meat sauce and a generous topping of mozzarella and Parmesan.
Bake the Lasagna:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Let the lasagna cool for about 10 minutes before serving.
Tips for the Perfect Lasagna:
Make it ahead: Lasagna can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated or frozen. Just bake it when you’re ready to enjoy.
Use fresh herbs: Fresh basil and parsley add vibrant flavor to the meat sauce.
Rest before serving: Let the lasagna sit for a few minutes after baking to make slicing easier and to help the flavors meld together.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Classic Lasagna is the ultimate comfort food. Its layers of rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey melted cheese create a symphony of flavors and textures that will have everyone coming back for seconds. It’s a timeless dish that’s perfect for any occasion, from casual dinners to festive celebrations.
Dining Out in the Area
If you are interested in dining out for Italian food, here are a few recommendations in the Orange County/Fredericksburg/Spotsylvania area: 2 Brothers and Bella Cucina in Locust Grove, Itave in Spotsylvania, and Orofino in Fredericksburg.
If you are interested in buying or selling a home in these areas, or anywhere in the region, we at the Licata Group/eXp are your expert real estate advisors! Call us today at 540/735-7998. Learn specifically about Lake of the Woods and search homes in this amenity-rich community at lakeofthewoodsvirginia.com or search homes in the entire region at licatagroup.com.
Welcome back to our Italian Recipe Series! After the delightful simplicity of Spaghetti Carbonara, we’re moving on to another classic that’s a favorite in many households: Chicken Parmesan. This dish features tender chicken breasts coated in a crispy breadcrumb crust, topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese. It’s a perfect combination of flavors and textures that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Chicken Parmesan Recipe
Ingredients:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups marinara sauce
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (optional)
Salt and pepper
Olive oil for frying
Instructions:
Prepare the Chicken:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness, about 1/2 inch thick. Season with salt and pepper.
Coat the Chicken:
Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off excess. Dip in the beaten eggs, then coat in the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture, pressing to adhere.
Fry the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the breaded chicken breasts and cook until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Bake the Chicken:
Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in a baking dish. Place the fried chicken breasts on top. Spoon additional marinara sauce over each piece and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese.
Bake in the preheated oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the chicken is cooked through about 20-25 minutes.
Serve:
Garnish with chopped fresh basil if desired. Serve hot with a side of spaghetti, a green salad, or garlic bread. Enjoy!
Tips for the Perfect Chicken Parmesan:
Use fresh, high-quality ingredients: Freshly grated Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses, along with a good-quality marinara sauce, make all the difference.
Don’t overcrowd the pan: When frying the chicken, work in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking and a crispy crust.
Finish in the oven: Baking the chicken ensures it’s cooked through and allows the cheese to melt beautifully.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Chicken Parmesan is the epitome of comfort food. The crispy, golden-brown chicken topped with savory marinara sauce and gooey melted cheese is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s hearty, delicious, and perfect for a family dinner or entertaining guests.
Stay Tuned!
We hope you enjoyed this delicious addition to our Italian Recipe Series. Stay tuned for more mouthwatering recipes as we continue to explore the rich and varied world of Italian cuisine.
Dining Out in the Area
If you are interested in dining out for Italian food, here are a few recommendations in the Orange County/Fredericksburg/Spotsylvania area: 2 Brothers and Bella Cucina in Locust Grove, Itave in Spotsylvania, and Orofino in Fredericksburg.
If you are interested in buying or selling a home in these areas, or anywhere in the region, we at the Licata Group/eXp are your expert real estate advisors! Call us today at 540/735-7998. Learn specifically about Lake of the Woods and search homes in this amenity-rich community at lakeofthewoodsvirginia.com or search homes in the entire region at licatagroup.com.
If you’re looking for a delicious and comforting Italian dish that’s easy to make, look no further than Spaghetti Carbonara. This classic recipe is a favorite for its creamy texture, savory flavors, and simplicity. Made with just a few ingredients, it’s a perfect meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
400g (14 oz) spaghetti
150g (5.3 oz) pancetta or guanciale, diced
2 large eggs
100g (3.5 oz) Pecorino Romano cheese, grated
50g (1.7 oz) Parmesan cheese, grated
2 cloves of garlic, peeled
Freshly ground black pepper
Salt
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Prepare the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
Cook the Pancetta:
In a large skillet, heat a small amount of olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic cloves and cook until golden, then remove them.
Add the diced pancetta (or guanciale) to the skillet and cook until crispy. Remove from heat.
Make the Sauce:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, Pecorino Romano, and Parmesan cheese until well combined. Season with a generous amount of freshly ground black pepper.
Combine Everything:
Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the pancetta, tossing to coat in the rendered fat.
Remove the skillet from heat and pour the egg and cheese mixture over the pasta, stirring quickly to create a creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
Serve:
Divide the pasta among plates, and garnish with extra cheese, more black pepper, and fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for the Perfect Carbonara:
Use fresh, high-quality ingredients: Authentic pancetta or guanciale and fresh Pecorino Romano cheese will elevate your dish.
Work quickly: When adding the egg mixture, make sure the pasta is hot but not on direct heat to avoid scrambling the eggs.
Pasta water is your friend: It helps create a silky sauce, so don’t forget to reserve some before draining the pasta.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Spaghetti Carbonara is a true testament to the beauty of simple ingredients coming together to create something extraordinary. It’s a dish that’s rich in flavor, yet light enough to enjoy any time of the year. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests on special occasions.
Dining Out in the Area
If you are interested in dining out for Italian food, here are a few recommendations in the Orange County/Fredericksburg/Spotsylvania area: 2 Brothers and Bella Cucina in Locust Grove, Itave in Spotsylvania, and Orofino in Fredericksburg.
If you are interested in buying or selling a home in these areas, or anywhere in the region, we at the Licata Group/eXp are your expert real estate advisors! Call us today at 540/735-7998. Learn specifically about Lake of the Woods and search homes in this amenity-rich community at lakeofthewoodsvirginia.com or search homes in the entire region at licatagroup.com.
Nestled on 1.45 acres, this stunning 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom rambler with a 2-car garage and a finished basement offers a serene and private retreat. As you drive up, you are captivated by the peaceful ambiance and picturesque gardens that greet you at the front of the property.
Stepping onto the welcoming porch, you enter the foyer then greeted by a sizable living room adorned with large windows, allowing you to admire the beautifully maintained flower garden. The formal dining room, featuring crown molding, chair railing, and an inviting atmosphere, sets the stage for elegant meals and memorable gatherings.
The family room is a masterpiece of design, boasting a floor-to-ceiling gas fireplace, hardwood floors, skylights, and a cathedral ceiling, creating a warm and inviting space. The expansive kitchen offers ample storage and counter space, with large windows that frame the lush backyard and deck, providing a perfect backdrop for culinary adventures.
The sleeping quarters include a primary bedroom with an en-suite bath, along with two additional guest rooms and a guest bath, all designed for comfort and relaxation. The finished basement is a true oasis, featuring a generous-sized kitchenette, a den, a media/flex room, a fourth bedroom, and another full bathroom. This space, with its separate entrance, is ideal for multigenerational living or a home business. This exquisite property seamlessly blends elegance and functionality, offering a perfect setting for those seeking a tranquil and versatile living environment.
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or property in Virginia, we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “What is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, one of our expert advisors will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contacting Pat Licata. To view available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site. To view available properties in Northern and Central Virginia, visit our website at licatagroup.com.
Welcome to your dream home! This contemporary stone residence captivates you with its charming allure and impressive 2-car garage from the moment you arrive. Boasting over 2,100 sq. ft. of open and airy living space, this home offers the perfect blend of sophistication and comfort.
Upon entering, you’re greeted by stunning hardwood floors, cathedral ceilings, and a cozy gas fireplace that exudes warmth and charm. The kitchen is a culinary delight, featuring cherry cabinets, ample storage, a striking backsplash, granite countertops, a farmhouse sink, stainless steel appliances, and a gas stove.
The formal dining room epitomizes elegance with its crown molding, chair rail, substantial baseboards, tray ceiling, and a dazzling chandelier—setting the stage for memorable dining experiences. The thoughtfully designed split floor plan ensures privacy and tranquility. The luxurious primary suite serves as a private retreat, complete with a serene office area that opens to a screened-in porch. The spa-like ensuite bathroom features a jetted tub, a spacious tile shower, and a generous walk-in closet.
On the opposite side of the home, you’ll find two additional bedrooms and a beautifully updated bathroom, providing a comfortable haven for family or guests. Step outside from the kitchen to the screened porch that extends to a spacious open deck, perfect for hosting gatherings and showcasing your BBQing skills.
One of the standout features of this property is the private, wooded lot behind the deck offering a serene and secluded atmosphere, perfect for enjoying quiet moments and nature views.
Nestled in a private, secure, gated community, Lake of the Woods is a paradise of possibilities. With two lakes, a golf course, an equestrian center, fire and rescue services, and even a church within its bounds, this community offers a diverse range of activities. From boating, water skiing, kayaking, and golfing to the simple joy of soaking in mesmerizing views from the clubhouse, deck, yard, or beaches, there’s something for everyone. Engage your interests by joining over 60 clubs and organizations, or perhaps indulge in a game of bridge or contribute your talents as a volunteer. Lake of the Woods truly caters to your lifestyle.
Located in Orange County, enjoy the added advantage of low real estate taxes. With home prices spanning from $200,000+ to over $2,000,000, Lake of the Woods is the ideal haven for both full-time residents and weekenders. Don’t just take my word for it – come and see for yourself! Allow me to guide you through a tour of Lake of the Woods, showcasing the very essence of what makes this community so special. Experience firsthand the captivating charm of Lake of the Woods!
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or property in Virginia, we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market
condition, “What is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, one of our expert advisors will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contacting Pat Licata. To view available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site. To view available properties in Northern and Central Virginia, visit our website at licatagroup.com.
