A Babygirl/Nosferatu Salad

It's erotically bloody

Sicilian Chicory Salad, 2025

Flesh toned, crimson and bitterly sweet, I’m not just talking about my love life, but about this Sicilian chicory salad. I reckon inspiration comes from wherever you want it to. I’d like to think this slightly monochromatic tumble of seasonal delights stands in the zeitgeist juxtaposed to the movies Babygirl and Nosferatu.

The blood purifying power of bitter leaves with bright citrus, fatty hazelnuts and olives are the tonic we need from post-holiday lethargy. I felt instant regret when I tossed the peels of the Cara Cara and Blood Oranges into the rubbish. I could have made a wonderful marmalade, I suppose. Alas, the regret was swiftly overwhelmed with the satiating affect of the salad at hand.

Yes, I spent $9 on a head of Tardivo. Was it worth it? Every fucking penny. I am the last person you want to speak to when it comes to spending money on food. My justification stands with flavor and nourishment. Also, don’t argue with me. Why do I liken this salad to Babygirl and Nosferatu? Bill Skarsgård’s character in Nosferatu explains to Lily Rose Depp’s character “I am nothing but an appetite.” In Babygirl the relationship built between Nicole Kidman and Harris Dickinson is about consent in regards to erotic desire. I love how frivolous this salad is, its fantasy and desire fused with lust and carnal satiety.

I want to eat this way everyday. Just this morning I made soft scrambled eggs on crispy toast with prosciutto cotto, parmesan and black pepper. I happen to finish it off with a whisper of Sicilian extra virgin olive oil. I’ll do me and you do you. Unlike Nosferatu, my appetite is pleased and you’ll find me in the daylight with a wink and a smile.