Cooking and entertaining doesn’t have to be complicated. I’m all about deliciously gourmet meals and drinks that aren’t stuffy or fussy. Fresh ingredients, realistic recipes, ingredient planning, and kitchen organization are essential to any successful meal or soireé. Here I share my favorite recipes as well as tips to host a effortlessly luxe meal or celebration.
Caprese salad is a popular dish in restaurants and homes alike. Cherry tomatoes are in season in late June so this dish is extra delicious when these healthy nutrient dense superfoods are at their peak. I like to use small mozzarella balls (called bocconcini or ciliegne and can be found in the cheese section at… Read More Caprese Skewers
This hearty appetizer is a crowd favorite. Summer vegetables at the peak of flavor mixed with tangy balsamic dressing give this dish a crunch and taste that is incredible. Serve these yummy vegetables with pita crackers and your guests will be eating up every last bite.
Eggs Benedict is a delicious and elegant breakfast enjoyed at many a brunch and breakfast spots. While this dish may look too difficult to make at home, the ingredients are quite simple. Toasted English muffins, cooked bacon, and poached eggs are easy enough for the most novice of chefs to prepare. But making the hollandaise… Read More Super Simple Hollandaise Sauce
Memorial Day Weekend is upon us and that means it is the official summer kick-off for outdoor bbq’s, happy hours, parties, and celebrations. But just because the festivities have moved outside does not mean one has to resort to using drab disposable dinnerware while entertaining. Meet the outdoor host’s new best friend; melamine dinner and… Read More 3 Outdoor Dining Tablescape Ideas for the Perfect Summer Table
This recipe is from The Barefoot Contessa At Home cookbook. Imagine the classic pb&j lunchbox staple transformed into a scrumptious dessert. For an even more decadent treat, serve these bars warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.
Holiday dinners are one of my favorite times to get together with friends and family. Laughing, talking, and sharing stories over good food and drink is such a treasure to me. So when I host a holiday meal, I do a lot of menu planning and prepping to make sure everything tastes delicious. Normally, side… Read More Delicious Easter Side Dishes
No holiday dinner table is complete without some kind of potato side dish. This recipe from Ina Garten’s Make it Ahead cookbook is unique because each person gets their own personal red potato that is slightly smashed, slightly crispy, and oh so tasty with Parmesan cheese and fresh chives. This dish can be made ahead… Read More Parmesan Chive Smashed Potatoes
This colorful side dish from Health Magazine is as beautiful as it is tasty. The nutrients and vitamins that come from the broccoli and sun dried tomatoes makes this a healthy side dish option for any holiday dinner. From Health magazine, May 2011
This vibrant green side dish from Ina Garten’s Make it Ahead cookbook is perfect for Easter. Sweet peas, salty pancetta, and fresh mint make this beautiful dish a perfect accompaniment to any holiday meal. From Ina Garten’s Make it Ahead cookbook.
Hosting a cocktail party does not have to be stressful. Follow these simple steps to set up an elegant and easy DIY vodka bar. Then instead of being stuck as bartender for the duration of the party, you can mix, mingle, and have fun with all of your guests. Last weekend, I hosted a happy… Read More How To Set Up A DIY Vodka Bar