Classic MARTINI WITH CHARD, LEMON & RICOTTA SILVER DOLLAR PANCAKES

(recipe on page 131)

In order to balance the fat of the ricotta, bitterness of the chard and tartness of the lemon in this delicious appetizer, we needed the assertive yet balanced taste of a classic vodka Martini. To complement without being intrusive, we chose a creamy vodka, such as Stolichnaya Elit (LCBO 254631, $59.95), or Belvedere (LCBO 437772, $50.05), and then made it wet (wet means adding extra vermouth).

In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, add 2 oz vodka and ¼ oz dry white vermouth. Stir until icy cold and strain into a Martini glass. Garnish with a lemon and chive bundle.

Makes 1 cocktail