Squash blossoms are in bloom! In celebration of the delicate flower’s return, Chef Luke Palladino presents two opportunities to enjoy complimentary samples of Fiori di Zucca at Palladino's on Passyunk (1934 East Passyunk) and Luke Palladino Seasonal Italian Cooking (199 New Road, Central Square, Linwood, NJ).

Palladino's, Luke Palladino, Chef, Squash Blossoms, East Passyunk, Passyunk, Linwood, Aversa PR

Fiori di Zucca, which features locally sourced squash blossoms, is stuffed with sweet corn, ricotta, mozzarella, and parmigiano reggiano, tempura fried and tossed with parmigiano reggiano, chives and parsley.

"Fiori di Zucca is our most popular antipasto ever,” said Luke. “Italians have fond childhood memories of their Nonna making these in the kitchen. The batter is so light that the flavor of the flower itself really stands out.”

Fiori di Zucca is now back on the menu while supplies last at both restaurants ($12.00/order). Enjoy two opportunities to sample this must-try dish. Details are below:

1) Palladino's on Passyunk
Squash Blossom Happy Hour
(Reservations/info: 267-928-4339)

Starting today, through June 5, 2015, from 5:00pm to 7:00pm, enjoy complimentary samples of Fiori di Zucca when you join chef for happy hour. As a special pairing, chef will also offer a complimentary taste of Limonata.

Limonata is one of several new cocktails to debut on a new drink menu at Palladino's later in the month. This thirst-quenching cocktail features Limoncello, Bombay Gin, St. Germaine, lemon, simple syrup and club soda.

2) Luke Palladino Seasonal Italian Cooking
Annual Squash Blossom Party
(Reservations/info: 609-926-3030)

Celebrate the return of squash blossoms at the shore on Monday, June 8th. Dinner guests will receive a complimentary tasting of Fiori di Zucca AND a complimentary glass of prosecco. Available during dinner hours which are 5:00pm to 10:00pm.

ABOUT CHEF LUKE PALLADINO

Chef Luke Palladino is a graduate of the esteemed Culinary Institute of Aemrica (CIA) in Hyde Park, NY and spent many years living and cooking in Italy. From 1997 to 1999, Palladino was executive chef and partner at Venice’s internationally celebrated Ristorante al Covo. Prior to his time at al Covo, Chef Palladino immersed himself in the culture and cuisine of Italy’s varied regions, spending time at restaurants in Rome, Piemonte, Puglia, Fruili, Sicily and Tuscany.

In the United States, Chef Palladino has worked with some of the country’s most respected culinary talent, including Paul Bertolli Jeremiah Towers, Emeril Lagasse and Todd English. Currently, Chef Palladino owns and operates Luke Palladino Hospitality Group, Altantic City, NJ.