Plan ahead for Mother’s Day: The Mamma Mia Vase

Disclaimer: I am not an investor in Mamma Mia brand olive oil. I receive no compensation from wholesalers or retailers of olive oil. I am a mere consumer: I cook with the stuff. And this brief note is meant as a reminder to the many readers who have asked me where they could get Mamma Mia olive oil so, when empty, the colorful can might be turned into a vase and presented to various Mammas on Mamma’s Day May 11. Trinacria’s Italian Deli in Baltimore carries the brand. Under normal conditions, one three-liter can in my kitchen lasts about two months. Thus today’s note. Once the can is empty, carefully cut out the top of the can with a good can opener; using pliers, make sure the edge is smooth so that no one gets cut on a jagged edge. Dry the inside thoroughly with paper towels, and make sure to insert a plastic container — I use a half-gallon milk jug, cut rough in half or a little higher — to line the inside of the can. Otherwise, water for flowers will eventually rust out your kitschy-beautiful Mamma Mia vase.