Welcome back to our Italian Recipe Series! After delighting in the rich flavors of Tiramisu, it’s time to explore another iconic Italian dish: Risotto alla Milanese. Known for its vibrant yellow color and creamy texture, this saffron-infused risotto is a true representation of Milanese culinary tradition. It’s perfect as a standalone dish or as an accompaniment to meat or seafood.
Risotto alla Milanese Recipe
Ingredients:
1 1/2 cups Arborio rice
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth, kept warm
1/2 cup dry white wine
1/2 teaspoon saffron threads
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Prepare the Saffron:
In a small bowl, combine the saffron threads with 1/4 cup of warm broth. Let it steep while you prepare the risotto.
Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
Toast the Rice:
Add the Arborio rice to the saucepan and stir to coat the grains with the butter and onion mixture. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, until the edges of the rice become translucent.
Deglaze with Wine:
Pour in the white wine and cook, stirring constantly, until the wine is mostly absorbed by the rice.
Cook the Risotto:
Begin adding the warm broth, one ladleful at a time, stirring frequently and allowing the liquid to be absorbed before adding the next ladleful.
After about 10 minutes, stir in the saffron-infused broth along with the saffron threads. Continue cooking and adding broth until the rice is creamy and tender but still al dente, about 18-20 minutes total.
Finish the Risotto:
Once the rice is cooked to your desired consistency, remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and the grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Serve:
Spoon the risotto onto warm plates, garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve immediately. Enjoy!
Tips for the Perfect Risotto:
Use Arborio rice: This short-grain rice is essential for achieving the creamy texture of authentic risotto.
Stir frequently: Constant stirring helps release the starches from the rice, creating a creamy consistency.
Warm broth: Adding warm broth helps maintain a consistent cooking temperature, ensuring even cooking of the rice.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Risotto alla Milanese is a luxurious and comforting dish that’s sure to impress. The saffron gives it a unique flavor and a beautiful golden color, while the creamy texture makes it a delightful treat. It’s perfect as a main course or a side dish, making any meal feel special.
Stay Tuned!
We hope you enjoy making and savoring this Risotto alla Milanese. Stay tuned for the next delicious recipe in our Italian Recipe Series, where we continue to bring you the best of Italy’s culinary delights. Buon appetito!
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 savoring the rich flavors of Spaghetti Carbonara, Chicken Parmesan, and Lasagna, it’s time to satisfy your sweet tooth with a classic Italian dessert: Tiramisu. This elegant, coffee-flavored dessert is known for its creamy layers and delightful balance of flavors, making it a perfect end to any meal.
Classic Tiramisu Recipe
Ingredients:
6 large egg yolks
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 cup mascarpone cheese, room temperature
1 1/2 cups heavy cream, cold
2 cups strong brewed coffee, cooled
1/4 cup coffee liqueur (optional)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 package (7 oz) ladyfinger cookies
Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
Dark chocolate shavings (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Prepare the Mascarpone Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and granulated sugar until thick and pale, about 5 minutes.
Add the mascarpone cheese and vanilla extract, and continue to whisk until smooth and well combined.
Whip the Cream:
In a separate mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until fully incorporated and smooth.
Prepare the Coffee Mixture:
In a shallow dish, combine the cooled brewed coffee and coffee liqueur (if using).
Assemble the Tiramisu:
Dip each ladyfinger cookie into the coffee mixture, making sure not to soak them too long to prevent them from becoming too soggy.
Arrange a layer of dipped ladyfingers in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers.
Repeat the process with another layer of dipped ladyfingers and the remaining mascarpone mixture.
Chill and Serve:
Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set.
Before serving, dust the top of the tiramisu with unsweetened cocoa powder and garnish with dark chocolate shavings, if desired.
Tips for the Perfect Tiramisu:
Use high-quality mascarpone: This ensures a rich and creamy texture.
Don’t oversoak the ladyfingers: A quick dip in the coffee mixture is sufficient to prevent them from becoming too mushy.
Chill thoroughly: Allowing the tiramisu to chill for several hours or overnight enhances the flavor and texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Tiramisu is the ultimate indulgence for dessert lovers. Its layers of creamy mascarpone, coffee-soaked ladyfingers, and a hint of cocoa create a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. It’s a sophisticated yet easy-to-make dessert that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
Stay Tuned!
We hope you enjoy making and indulging in this Classic Tiramisu. Stay tuned for more delicious recipes as we continue our Italian Recipe Series, bringing you the best of Italy’s culinary delights. Buon appetito!
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.
Prepare to fall in love with this charming 4 bedroom, 4 bath lakefront home, where every corner invites you to entertain and/or relax in style…or both! With decks wrapping around the house and a beautiful patio overlooking the serene lake, this home is perfect for fun gatherings or peaceful moments by the water. And wait until you see the lakefront space! The low-maintenance natural landscaping lets you spend time doing the important things–like kayaking or hiking.
Step inside and be greeted by hardwood floors throughout the open-concept main level with stunning lake views. The main level features a living and dining area, a kitchen with table space, and a very large primary bedroom with an ensuite bathroom, providing a perfect retreat.
Venture upstairs to discover another spacious primary bedroom with a fabulously updated ensuite bathroom, offering modern features and a touch of elegance. You’ll also find two additional spacious bedrooms and a guest bath on this level, making it ideal for family and friends.
The fully finished basement is a versatile space with LVP flooring throughout, a second living area, a room that can serve as an extra bedroom (not to code)/office, and a full bathroom. With easy access to the outdoors and generous lake views, it’s the perfect spot for relaxation or fun. Take a leisurely kayak ride or fish from your dock or troll around the lake in your electric pontoon… the possibilities are endless.
The separate, fantastic outdoor areas provide numerous opportunities to play or relax! There’s even a perfect spot to hang your hammock among the trees. Nature lovers will love this location, as frequent visitors include blue herons, red-tailed hawks, swans, deer, and even sightings of bald eagles and ospreys. Patios, decks, and amazing lakefront spaces are waiting!
This home seamlessly blends charm, character, and functionality. The property includes an expanded driveway that can easily fit multiple cars for family and friends. Don’t miss out on making this lakefront paradise your own!
Nestled in a private, secure, gated community, Lake of the Woods is a community full of possibilities. With two lakes, a golf course, a clubhouse, beaches, 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 any of over 60 clubs and organizations, indulging in a game of bridge, or contributing 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.
Even though it’s one of the main structural elements of the house, the roof of many homes becomes an afterthought, giving way to more eye-catching elements like windows and landscaping. But make no mistake, a well-maintained roof that suits your home makes a big impact on curb appeal.
Because it’s such an important part of your house, it’s advised to inspect your roof annually, and after potentially damaging events like storms with high winds or hail.
It may be time to replace your roof if:
Your shingles are cracked, worn, cupped, or damaged; rubbers are warped or shrinking
You have water damage upstairs or in the attic
The roof is sagging, or shingles, flashing, or fascia are missing
Moss, mold, algae, or fungus are growing on the roof
You’ve had recent hail or wind damage
Your roof is over 20 years old.
How to choose your new roofing: When it’s time, it can feel a little overwhelming to navigate all the options, here’s a little help to guide your planning and decision-making process.
Cost –When evaluating your options, avoid basing your decision solely on the cheapest price, aim for a good value – a quality installation, sound materials, and a good lifespan. Prices vary widely between materials, both for the roofing itself and the installation. The good news is that you can achieve a variety of looks to fit your budget with metal, synthetic, asphalt, wood, solar, green, clay, and slate options.
Style – You’ll want to choose something that coordinates with the architecture and aesthetics of your home. There are several materials and colors to choose from.
Structure – What can your home support? While wood shake, asphalt, and standing seam metal roofing materials are lightweight, clay tiles, slate, and green roofs can be heavy and require special support, ventilation, drainage, or even wiring for solar.
Environment – Do you have snow and ice? Intense heat or cold? High humidity? Fire- or flood-prone? High winds? Make sure the materials you choose are a good match for your climate and surroundings. If you’re considering solar, ensure you’ll have adequate sun exposure.
Durability – Slate tile shingles may last 200 years or more, and rolled roofing may last only 5-10. Given the investment that replacing your roof requires, durability is an important factor.
Installation – Quality installation is crucial to the function and longevity of your roof. Some materials will be easy, and some will require specialized expertise and systems. Understand what’s required and interview multiple contractors to ensure you get the most from your investment.
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.
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.
