tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33072767898465463762024-02-18T22:37:09.170-05:00Entertaining: Purveyors of the Lost ArtSavvy pointers, tips and recipes for sophisticated entertainingCrystal Black Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04874638986182628497noreply@blogger.comBlogger39125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3307276789846546376.post-29846229920490261102011-12-17T15:55:00.010-05:002012-02-29T22:41:43.512-05:00Sounds of a Savvy Soiree: Holding Back the Years by Gretchen Parlato<div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLTmCE-UsZKE6Xa96lKFqG18aCKv1qDlMCQ09EAw_iewUTpt2yLDU3rXtZ6MgeBbnecMtKyHaZjmJSWlHfR9hR_uucsqRc4lJGIw5WccIpMRdoU6PU2ab2eVxRSdsnFUrnCs8-bOT_iiQ/s1600/220px-Gretchen_Parlato.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 220px; height: 195px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5687205135977686002" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLTmCE-UsZKE6Xa96lKFqG18aCKv1qDlMCQ09EAw_iewUTpt2yLDU3rXtZ6MgeBbnecMtKyHaZjmJSWlHfR9hR_uucsqRc4lJGIw5WccIpMRdoU6PU2ab2eVxRSdsnFUrnCs8-bOT_iiQ/s320/220px-Gretchen_Parlato.jpg" border="0" /></a><div>I adore this song, originally by Simply Red and now Gretchen Parlato's rendition. Taylor Eigsti is just superb on the piano!<br />This is a staple on all of my dinner/cocktail party playlists...classy, jazzy and chic...Enjoy!</div><div><a href="http://youtu.be/UUimaa__UgY"><span style="color:#6633ff;">Holding Back the Years by Gretchen Parlato</span></a></div></div>Crystal Black Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04874638986182628497noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3307276789846546376.post-44400769008993444902011-02-28T19:38:00.021-05:002012-02-29T22:43:45.492-05:00The Savvy Palate: Mediterranean Vegetable Terrine<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis1cObyovMF5mS-RiEGNLMWmBlUZEM2R35uFXC5Mnsp26NIb73JpkmO5t1A1eAd6sFooCjKiAE2OMMkIaSg_etHso4HijzEjZrfe1kNRkh8KiUl5eR0Xge323BcCgerTQoG8Z8ADgKpXA/s1600/3885583834_9289f821ab.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis1cObyovMF5mS-RiEGNLMWmBlUZEM2R35uFXC5Mnsp26NIb73JpkmO5t1A1eAd6sFooCjKiAE2OMMkIaSg_etHso4HijzEjZrfe1kNRkh8KiUl5eR0Xge323BcCgerTQoG8Z8ADgKpXA/s320/3885583834_9289f821ab.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5684571024599057202" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Ah, the terrine...such a mysterious being. Soooo, what constitutes something as being a terrine? Is it anything that's prepared in a terrine dish or does it have be prepared with aspic/gelatin, set, chilled then served as a sliceable mold? Well, when referring to the actual end-product, the later is correct, but to confuse you, technically both are right. To confuse you even more, you don't always have to use aspic/gelatin to create a terrine. Is your head spinning yet? Okay, so we have the quasi-answer to the original question, here's another, do all terrines have to consist of poultry liver? No, in fact I have an AMAZING recipe for a vegetarian terrine that is sure to wow the guests at your next dinner party. 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</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-qformat:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin-top:0in; mso-para-margin-right:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:10.0pt; mso-para-margin-left:0in; line-height:115%; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} </style> <![endif]--> <p style="font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="Arial","sans-serif";font-size:100%;" >-3 large red bell peppers<br /></span></p><p style="font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="Arial","sans-serif";mso-bidi-language: AR-SAfont-size:100%;" >-1 tablespoon olive oil</span><span style="mso-bidi-Arial","sans-serif"font-size:100%;" > (Savvy recommends Treasures of Tuscany)</span><span style="Arial","sans-serif";mso-bidi-language:AR-SAfont-size:100%;" ><br /></span><span style="Arial","sans-serif";font-size:100%;" ></span></p><p style="font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-size:100%;" >-1 tablespoon of balsamic glaze (balsamic reduction)</span></p> <p style="font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="Arial","sans-serif";font-size:100%;" >-1 1/2 pounds (1 large or 2 medium) eggplants<br /></span></p><p style="font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="Arial","sans-serif";font-size:100%;" >-1 pound (3 medium) zucchini<br /></span></p><p style="font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="Arial","sans-serif";mso-bidi-language: AR-SAfont-size:100%;" >-1 po</span><span style="Arial","sans-serif";font-size:100%;" >und ripe tomatoes<br /></span></p><p style="font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="mso-bidi-Arial","sans-serif"font-size:100%;" >-1 large red onion</span><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-size:100%;" ></span><span style="Arial","sans-serif";font-size:100%;" ><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-size:100%;" >-Coarse sea salt (to taste)</span> </p><p style="font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-size:100%;" >-Fresh cracked black pepper</span></p> <p style="font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNoSpacing"><span class="textrec" style="font-size:100%;"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"">-2 tablespoons of unflavored gelatin</span></span><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-size:100%;" ></span></p> <p style="font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-size:100%;" >-1/2 cup chopped fresh basil</span><span style="mso-bidi-Arial","sans-serif"font-size:100%;" ></span></p> <p style="font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="Arial","sans-serif";font-size:100%;" >Start boiling water and add basil then set aside.<br /></span></p><p style="font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="Arial","sans-serif";font-size:100%;" >Line a terrine dish with plastic wrap, leaving enough over lap to seal the terrine after the pan has been filled.<br /></span></p><p style="font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-size:100%;" >Cut vegetables into large slices (peppers lengthwise and tomato/onion/eggplant/zucchini crossways)</span></p> <p style="font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-size:100%;" >Brush cut vegetables lightly with olive oil and season with salt and pepper</span></p> <p style="font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-size:100%;" >Place on grill (charcoal, gas or grill pan) until tender with defined grill lines</span></p> <p style="font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="Arial","sans-serif";font-size:100%;" >Place the peppers lengthwise on the bottom of the plastic lined loaf pan, then stand any remaining slices upright along all the sides, allowing the strips to drape over the sides of the pan.<br /></span></p><p style="font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="Arial","sans-serif";font-size:100%;" >Set aside any leftover slices.<br /></span></p><p style="font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="Arial","sans-serif";font-size:100%;" >Layer the zucchini over the pepper in a basket weave pattern.<br /></span></p><p style="font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="Arial","sans-serif";font-size:100%;" >Season with salt and pepper to taste.<br /></span></p><p style="font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="Arial","sans-serif";font-size:100%;" >Layer the eggplant in the pan over the zucchini.<br /></span></p><p style="font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="Arial","sans-serif";font-size:100%;" >Next, add a layer of sliced tomatoes and onion; season lightly with salt and pepper.<br /></span></p><p style="font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="Arial","sans-serif";font-size:100%;" >Put the basil water in a small saucepan and place over medium heat just until the liquid begins to give off steam.<br /></span></p><p style="font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="Arial","sans-serif";font-size:100%;" >Add the gelatin, reduce the heat to low, and stir with a wooden spoon until the gelatin is completely dissolved and the mixture begins to thicken.<br /></span></p><p style="font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="Arial","sans-serif";font-size:100%;" >Pour over the vegetables in the loaf pan.<br /></span></p><p style="font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="Arial","sans-serif";font-size:100%;" >Fold the overhanging pepper strips over the top and add any that were reserved from the first step.<br /></span></p><p style="font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="Arial","sans-serif";font-size:100%;" >Close the plastic wrap over the pan and top with an additional layer of doubled plastic wrap to seal.<br /></span></p><p style="font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="Arial","sans-serif";font-size:100%;" >Put the loaf pan on a large plate and weigh the pan down with another loaf pan of the same size filled with water, bags of dried beans, or anything else sufficiently heavy, or with a brick.<br /></span></p><p style="font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="Arial","sans-serif";font-size:100%;" >Refrigerate for at least 3 hours to allow the basil aspic to form and the terrine to set.<br /></span></p><p style="font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="Arial","sans-serif";font-size:100%;" >To unmold, open the plastic wrap, put a serving plate upside down on top of the loaf pan, flip, and remove the plastic.<br /></span></p><p style="font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-size:100%;" >Cut into slices.</span></p> <p style="font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="Arial","sans-serif";font-size:100%;" >Drizzle with balsamic glaze</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";" ><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 0, 0); font-family: arial;font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >ENJOY!!!</span><br /></span></p>Crystal Black Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04874638986182628497noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3307276789846546376.post-60184558290832858282010-11-30T16:58:00.020-05:002010-12-02T13:12:54.935-05:00The Savvy Guest: Hostess Gift Etiquette<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib_yQurNSixWL0wYD_0h_Kw3KDPNoNgvhS325-uzgZsa37NbgManfJFpbaVJNfPStbK9ocZKYF-Iq6tzJnE8roHv9RGYHswt5qK-BNN96ehj-Ac2ka5cSBLbPBt-Y8QXjoGWOZUGFj6U0/s1600/Hostess+Gift+copy.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 174px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib_yQurNSixWL0wYD_0h_Kw3KDPNoNgvhS325-uzgZsa37NbgManfJFpbaVJNfPStbK9ocZKYF-Iq6tzJnE8roHv9RGYHswt5qK-BNN96ehj-Ac2ka5cSBLbPBt-Y8QXjoGWOZUGFj6U0/s320/Hostess+Gift+copy.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5545470592212790562" border="0" /></a><span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);font-size:130%;" ><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Savvy Guest: Hostess Gift Etiquette</span></span><br /><br />What to give and when to give a hostess gift is such a hot topic, especially now during the holiday season. This is one of those subjects that tend to stump invitees and I get asked about it quite often. The quick and easy answer is yes, you should definitely bring a hostess gift if you're attending a cocktail or dinner party, also if you're a house guest. It's just simple gratitude.<br />Is it a no-no if you don't give a gift? Not exactly, however it just isn't proper (channeling my inner Emily Post as I sip earl grey tea, pinkies up).<br /><br />Here are some easy tips to keep in mind when deciding on what to give as a hostess gift:<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Cocktail Party:</span><br />A bottle of wine or wine/bar accessory is a great and appropriate hostess gift for the cocktail party hostess. Additional small tokens of appreciation could be coasters, seasonal holiday gift (ornament or packaged candy) or flowers already in vase.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Dinner Party:</span><br />The same rules apply as the cocktail party...just <span style="font-weight: bold;">DO NOT</span> bring a dish of food...this is a big no-no. The host already has a menu planned and your dish may not fit in. Packaged food gifts are fine as long as the hostess does not feel obligated to serve it at the party. For example, if you bring a delicious bag of blueberry scones from Amy's Bread and box of Aveda tea (hint, hint) a simple note that states "You cooked an amazing dinner tonight, wake up to a delicious morning tomorrow" lets the host know that you appreciate them and that this gift of food is for her to enjoy at a later time.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">House Guest:</span><br />This should be an obvious one. If someone is opening up their home to you, a hostess gift is a must.<br />For weekend stays, a bottle of wine, fine soap/toiletries, a plant in vase or thoughtful book are great choices.<br />For longer stays, a restaurant gift card, houseware item that matches their decor or tickets to a popular event are excellent options. Keep in mind that you are saving hundreds of dollars by not staying at a hotel, the least you can do is use a bit of that savings to show your gratitude.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Other situations:</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;"><br />*Should I send a hostess gift if I can not attend the event?</span><br />-No, but please be courteous and inform the host that you will not be attending.<br /><span style="font-style: italic;"><br />*When should I give the hostess their gift, when I arrive or before I leave?</span><br />-For dinner and cocktail parties, upon arrival is the best time. One exception to the rule would be for large scale dinner parties. A thank you card or gift that is mailed the day after the event is sufficient.<br />For houseguests, it's more meaningful to give the gift at the end of your stay, especially for longer stays so you're able to gauge what they may need.<br /><br /><br />Remember the purpose of a hostess gift is to let the host know that you appreciate them for inviting your to their event. Be sure to be thoughtful, imaginative and unique in your gift giving approach...the host will so appreciate it...I know I do!<br /><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div>Crystal Black Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04874638986182628497noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3307276789846546376.post-47008798152533704282010-09-24T17:33:00.006-04:002011-04-26T16:08:21.442-04:00Savvy Soiree: Sights & Sounds...Cocktail Party Scenes in Chic Music Videos<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmsfIsksunjdkeQ7pAZqnxtubnanuFQiFjCEEGS7MbG_vVQ1X4qb9FWlWabN4I6yrk9QDDAUkk4c6B4tv9zOQ9G1tBMHpQvKgjlop0qvD79rGYsao6U8UBeSO7zvzVrdSq4d-MA7ONmAI/s1600/common.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 242px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmsfIsksunjdkeQ7pAZqnxtubnanuFQiFjCEEGS7MbG_vVQ1X4qb9FWlWabN4I6yrk9QDDAUkk4c6B4tv9zOQ9G1tBMHpQvKgjlop0qvD79rGYsao6U8UBeSO7zvzVrdSq4d-MA7ONmAI/s320/common.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5520599807424770850" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(0, 51, 0);">Savvy Soiree: Sights & Sounds...Cocktail Party Scenes in Chic Music Videos</span><br /><br />To know me is to know that I LOVE music! As I plan my annual fall cocktail party, A Mid-Autumn Night's Chill, I look forward to winding down and celebrating with friends over great food, convo and libations. What I also look forward to, and I mean REALLY look forward to, is creating this year's event play list (click <a href="http://thehouseofsavvy.blogspot.com/2010/07/savvy-soiree-playlist-urban.html">here</a> to read why). It's like a rush to put together the ultimate play list...a mixture of old and new, obscure and well known, but above all, songs that will create that memorable atmosphere that will keep guests talking.<br /><br />To set the tone, and kick off my planning, here are two of my favorite songs with videos featuring great cocktail party scenes...<br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cDLlDG1bvZc">"If I Knew" by Jimmy Sommers featuring Vikter Duplaix</a><br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QRfTS8bd05o">"I Want You" by Common</a><br /><br />Ciao!<br /><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div>Crystal Black Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04874638986182628497noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3307276789846546376.post-54357781027641368632010-09-22T07:32:00.014-04:002010-09-22T10:11:49.495-04:00Savvy Style: Favs for Accessorizing Your Soiree<div style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg70uwPgJlySqxL1aPqrDsOlxSMHR20gG5iYcHqDulnltsPxsx-ntJ_qsj9ABqUcoYOVe1jzwTeyFugC_BeUezrP29cpGZ5sh4pV7lk6I4o_EcKZo4eiWJWlOBY27y76UfLyoagAO_-o74/s1600/Untitled-3.jpg"><img style="text-align: center; margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 320px; display: block; height: 217px;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5519715359685217090" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg70uwPgJlySqxL1aPqrDsOlxSMHR20gG5iYcHqDulnltsPxsx-ntJ_qsj9ABqUcoYOVe1jzwTeyFugC_BeUezrP29cpGZ5sh4pV7lk6I4o_EcKZo4eiWJWlOBY27y76UfLyoagAO_-o74/s320/Untitled-3.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div><strong><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 0);">Savvy Style: Favs for Accessorizing Your Soiree</span></strong><br /></div><br /><div>I adore shopping for my home just as much as I love shopping for myself...I get especially thrilled when it comes to shopping for those unique elements that add extra flair to my social gatherings. </div><br /><div>Admittedly, living in NYC offers tons of deals and a vast array of options, however, with a little diligence and great broadband, anyone in any city can outfit their soiree with style.</div></div><br /><div style="font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" > </div><strong style="font-family: arial;">Glassware</strong><br /><div style="font-family: arial;" face="arial"><div>IKEA, IKEA, IKEA! So cheap yet so chic...you cannot go wrong with IKEA. From $3.00 restaurant style wire lid water bottles to $2.00 martini glasses, IKEA is one of my main go to sources for glassware.<br /><a style="color: rgb(102, 102, 0);" href="http://www.ikea.com/">IKEA website</a><br /></div><br /><div> </div></div><span style="font-weight: bold; font-family: arial;font-family:Arial;" >Fabric</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" >Fashion forward table runners and accent pillows are great ways to add a sophisticated element to your decor. My office is smack dab in the heart of NYC's garment district so I'm fortunate to have access to gorgeous fabric in abundance...but it doesn't take being in Manhattan to snag fabulous textiles, some of my favorite places sell online...Dazian (great for large scale fabrics for drapes and dividers), Mood Fabrics (high fashion fabric for accessories) and Saro Trading Co. (for napkins and tablecloths).<br /><a href="http://dazian.com/index.asp">Dazian Website</a><br /><a href="http://www.moodfabrics.com/">Mood Website</a><br /><a href="http://saro.com/">Saro Website</a><br /></span><div style="font-family: arial;" face="arial"> </div> <div style="font-family: arial;" face="arial"><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Floral</span><br />If you can't frequent the 28th Street flower district, never fear because you can overload on sexy orchids and hydrangeas through online floral wholesalers. Two of my favorite are:<br /><a href="http://www.theflowerexchange.com/Scripts/defaultn.asp">The Flower Exchange</a><br /><a href="http://www.growersbox.com/categories.php">Grower's Box</a></div><br /><div style="font-family: arial;"> </div> <div style="font-family: arial;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Serving Supplies</span><br />Why use a regular teaspoon when you can use a chic Asian soup spoon instead (see previous post on my book launch party <a href="http://thehouseofsavvy.blogspot.com/2009/06/hors-doeuvres-with-style-asian-soup.html">here</a>). Restaurant and catering supply stores offer great alternatives to the mundane...whether brick and mortar or online.<br /><a href="http://www.webstaurantstore.com/">Webstaurant Store</a><br /></div> <div style="font-family: arial;"><br /></div><span style="font-weight: bold; font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" >Happy Entertaining!!!</span><br /><div style="font-family: arial;"></div><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div style="font-family: arial;" id="refHTML"></div><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div style="font-family: arial;" id="refHTML"></div><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div style="font-family: arial;" id="refHTML"></div><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div style="font-family: arial;" id="refHTML"></div><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div style="font-family: arial;" id="refHTML"></div>Crystal Black Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04874638986182628497noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3307276789846546376.post-10434858794477820532010-07-29T19:10:00.005-04:002010-07-29T19:35:30.183-04:00Reader Q&A: To Shake or To Stir...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOQG6AyZaDKSoTAgiq18Cu_BSCIp5x_dUgjT6ifeVQKOFqnSDlLCm5wxE7on69LCtusS61MNahl5FdbFHrvF-EYxwH6_CBxtzBE4vp90mhR9odbVXuOsERAmh-zB9XfnCb773pJlaaF3A/s1600/98839942.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 245px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOQG6AyZaDKSoTAgiq18Cu_BSCIp5x_dUgjT6ifeVQKOFqnSDlLCm5wxE7on69LCtusS61MNahl5FdbFHrvF-EYxwH6_CBxtzBE4vp90mhR9odbVXuOsERAmh-zB9XfnCb773pJlaaF3A/s320/98839942.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5499473407937470834" border="0" /></a><br />Q:When serving cocktails, how do I determine what mixes to shake and what to stir?<br />-Viv H., New York, NY<br /><br />A: As a rule of thumb, always ask your guests what they prefer. If they have no preference, remember this easy point...always shake opaque drinks and stir clear drinks. The exception would be to shake clear drinks if you want a head (foam on top). One simple thing to always keep in mind, never shake cocktails with carbonated ingredients.<br />Happy entertaining!<br /><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div>Crystal Black Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04874638986182628497noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3307276789846546376.post-34599784081279106762010-07-29T18:29:00.014-04:002010-07-29T19:23:48.435-04:00Savvy Soiree Playlist: The Urban Sophisticate<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6sSRy-JZiTGXOQwgoA2tLeqSToVD4u71PyefOe7Rvi38vCVYRa00GXEKyr0f439QHB0lLU6xPItA4YRfaeImtK10L0HfsraHBtrJPBtp9DLgifXTEwu8jTxK3f1WV4HCb1TQilh5qh6A/s1600/savvy+soiree+frame+copy.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 127px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6sSRy-JZiTGXOQwgoA2tLeqSToVD4u71PyefOe7Rvi38vCVYRa00GXEKyr0f439QHB0lLU6xPItA4YRfaeImtK10L0HfsraHBtrJPBtp9DLgifXTEwu8jTxK3f1WV4HCb1TQilh5qh6A/s320/savvy+soiree+frame+copy.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5499471352295123666" border="0" /></a>
<br /><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:130%;" >If you've ever attended one of my cocktail parties, you know that ambiance is as equally important to me as the right food and an interesting mix of guests. One of the essential elements in creating great ambiance is music. Good music. I'm a member of what I like to call the "Renaissance Generation", meaning, I appreciate Mos Def just as much as I appreciate Miles Davis. So, when it comes to entertaining, the playlist that resonates with me the most is what I classify as the Urban Sophisticate.
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<br /></span></p><p style="font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-size:130%;">My Urban Sophisticate playlist consists of pure neo-soul and down-tempo hip hop vibes that will stand out, however not overpower mingling and conversation.</span><span style="font-size:130%;"> Heavily </span><span style="font-size:130%;">influenced by jazz and soul classics, these artists truly represent the sophisticated side of the hip hop generation and prove that you can entertain in style and stay true to your personality!</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">
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mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} </style> <![endif]--> <p style="font-family: arial;" class="MsoNoSpacing"><b style=""><span style=";font-size:12pt;" ><span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 153);font-size:100%;" >My Urban Sophisticate Picks</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></p> <p style="font-family: arial;" class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b style=""><span style="">Subject
<br /></span></b><span style="">Dwele<o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p style="font-family: arial;" class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b style=""><span style="">Say How I Feel
<br /></span></b><span style="">Rhian Benson<o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p style="font-family: arial;" class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b style=""><span style="">What They Do
<br /></span></b><span style="">The Roots<o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p style="font-family: arial;" class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b style=""><span style="">Come Around
<br /></span></b><span style="">Foreign Exchange<o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p style="font-family: arial;" class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b style=""><span style="">Spanish Joint
<br /></span></b><span style="">D’Angelo<o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p style="font-family: arial;" class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b style=""><span style="">Vibes and Stuff
<br /></span></b><span style="">A Tribe Called Quest<o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-family: arial;font-size:100%;" ><b style=""><span style="">Come Close
<br /></span></b></span><span style=";font-family:";" ><span style="font-family: arial;font-size:100%;" >Common
<br /><b style="">Get to Know Ya
<br /></b>Maxwell
<br /><b style="">Au Natural
<br /></b>Sweetback feat. Bahamadia</span> <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style=";font-family:";" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div>Crystal Black Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04874638986182628497noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3307276789846546376.post-61136161221510050452010-04-24T12:50:00.015-04:002010-04-24T17:04:46.665-04:00The Savvy Indulgence: Irish Cream Brownies<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2ZoGKohwWHq7nkmE13hWPsKfrxPsnRcH9xSMyS-ENFn7zyLWWVN9w3vfDethXN-um5kB4wa1Tw-Qzfs_JY2P-nSElWj7zJrbnmXcmEv-6zxj92_ScyQGK7y8KPrOZR-5S6ZaDKd4UgL8/s1600/Blog+Brownies.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 288px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 274px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5463760605434550562" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2ZoGKohwWHq7nkmE13hWPsKfrxPsnRcH9xSMyS-ENFn7zyLWWVN9w3vfDethXN-um5kB4wa1Tw-Qzfs_JY2P-nSElWj7zJrbnmXcmEv-6zxj92_ScyQGK7y8KPrOZR-5S6ZaDKd4UgL8/s320/Blog+Brownies.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br />Talk about a match made in heaven...delicious <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">chocolately</span> brownies spiked with luscious Irish Cream. This brownie recipe is great for normal, casual weekend brownie consumption (you know, that brownie craving <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">you</span> get while watching Sex and the City reruns, you eat half the batter before it reaches the pan, once baked you hugrily slice lop <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">sided, jagged</span> rectangles **see above** and devour half the pan, especially the crispy edges, before Samantha makes it to her next conquest **sigh**)<br /><br />I'm all for the above, however this brownie recipe also makes an amazing center of plate dessert!<br /><br />Admittedly, when it comes to food (and just about everything else) I'm all about presentation. Instead of slicing the brownies rectangular, serve them round. To do this, use a deep, circle cookie cutter or if you don't have one, use a standard 15oz vegetable can (label removed, completely open on both ends and thoroughly washed). NOTE: When you round cut, make sure that you do not get too close to the edges.<br /><br />Once cut, center the brownies on a garnished dessert plate, top with a light dusting of powered sugar and cocoa powder and serve à la Mode with vanilla bean <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">gelato</span>!<br />The absolute best part...you get to nosh on all those edge pieces that were left in the pan...once your guests leave of course!<br />Bon Appetit!<br /><br /><br /><strong>Irish Cream Brownies<br /></strong><br />Makes 8 servings (squared)<br /><br />Makes 6 servings (round)<br /><br />Ingredients<br /><br />1 cup all-purpose flour (about 4 1/2 ounces)<br />1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa<br />1/4 teaspoon baking soda<br />1/4 teaspoon salt<br />1/3 cup grated 70% dark chocolate<br />1/4 cup butter<br />2 eggs<br />1 cup sugar<br />1/3 cup Irish Cream<br />1 teaspoon vanilla extract<br />Floured cooking spray<br /><br />Directions<br /><br />Preheat oven to 350°F. Spray 9×9-inch pan with floured cooking spray.<br /><br />Measure flour, cocoa, baking soda, and salt into a mixing bowl and stir<br /><br />Beat eggs and set aside<br /><br />Slowly melt butter and grated chocolate in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently. Remove from heat once completely melted and allow to cool for 5 minutes.<br /><br />Using a 1/4 cup measuring cup, slowly transfer the melted chocolate mixture into the eggs, beating constantly to temper the eggs. Stir the egg mixture into chocolate mixture then add sugar, vanilla, and Irish Cream. Stir over low heat for 2-3 minutes or until sugar has dissolved.<br /><br />Fold the chocolate mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring just until combined.<br /><br />Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake at 350°F for about 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out mostly clean.Crystal Black Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04874638986182628497noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3307276789846546376.post-13249540461867839362010-02-14T12:34:00.006-05:002010-02-14T14:22:41.706-05:00Reader Q & A: Is there really a difference between Champagne and Prosecco?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlkR0ezbi-SJiy5hm45n0I8zQMBXorB5TwWZtWRwo2-9uyDNGOyUL5vTZdOgjHAEADVaE7JjfbsHNhR440PqRcz-erP8en4VpIQVeyN53FbtgsQFBq3bXmIj-KeYRAQe0UGCWw3AM30y4/s1600-h/71035937.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 268px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlkR0ezbi-SJiy5hm45n0I8zQMBXorB5TwWZtWRwo2-9uyDNGOyUL5vTZdOgjHAEADVaE7JjfbsHNhR440PqRcz-erP8en4VpIQVeyN53FbtgsQFBq3bXmIj-KeYRAQe0UGCWw3AM30y4/s320/71035937.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5438172735930732610" border="0" /></a>Q: Is there really a difference between Champagne and Prosecco? I had Prosecco for the first time (to my knowledge) a few weeks ago and I didn't notice an obvious distinction from Champagne. I'd like to hear your take?<br /><div class="post hentry uncustomized-post-template">-Jaide S., Hoboken<br /><br />A: Jaide, you're not alone in not being able to discern the difference off hand. The most obvious distinction is it's origin. Champagne is grown and fermented exclusively in the Champagne region of France using the "La Méthode Champenoise" whereas Prosecco is an Italian sparking wine produced primarily in their Veneto region using the Prosecco grape and utilizing a less stringent set of standards. I can't pretend to have a favorite because I love them equally for their own unique qualities. Champagne snobs have been known to classify Prosecco as the "poor man's Champagne", I tend to disagree. Although the average price of Prosecco is considerably lower than Champagne, I personally find it equally as fab!<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />A few additional points of comparison</span><br /><span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 0); font-weight: bold;">Fermentation:</span><br /><span style="font-size:100%;">Both have two fermentation periods, the first is similar, the second, however, is the differentiator.<br />Champagne ferments in the bottle, </span><span style="font-size:100%;">where grape juice being converted into still wine, placed in a bottle, yeast and sugar are added, leading to a secondary fermentation in the closed bottle </span><span style="font-size:100%;">producing CO2 bubbles</span><span style="font-size:100%;">. Prosecco uses the </span><span style="font-size:100%;">Charmat method, where still wine is produced as the first method, </span><span style="font-size:100%;">however following this process it's transitioned to a separate sealed, pressurized tank allowing the grape juice to ferment also producing CO2 bubbles.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 0); font-weight: bold;">Longevity:</span><br />Quality, unopened Champagne has a longer shelf life when stored properly (</span><span style="font-size:100%;">cool dark place) , typically </span><span style="font-size:100%;">five or more years for vintage and up to a year and a half for non-vintage. Prosecco, similar to non-vintage Champagnes, usually lasts a little over a year, however for the best taste, it should be consumed as soon as possible.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(204, 102, 0);">Aroma:</span><br />Prosecco is known for it's simpler primary aromas whereas Champagne is more complex and rich with distinct secondary aromas<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(204, 102, 0);">Alcohol Content:</span><br />Both Champagne and Prosecco have similar percentages of alcohol per volume, on average 12%<br /></span><br />In honor of Valentine's Day, here's a great cocktail recipe using Prosecco or Champagne...<br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);" class="title_text">Madly in Love Savvy Spritzer</span><br /> In a fluted glass:<br /> - 1 oz. Strawberry Puree or 2 Muddled Strawberries<br /> - 4 oz. Prosecco or Brut Champagne<br />- 5 Pomegranate Arils "Jewels"<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Cheers!</span><br /></div><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div>Crystal Black Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04874638986182628497noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3307276789846546376.post-2934494911643894462010-01-09T23:35:00.011-05:002010-01-14T23:33:58.642-05:00The Savvy Swoon: Unique Products to Create a Stand-Out Cocktail Party<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 153);font-size:130%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span></span><br /><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSga-dGkneJwtEQ1i5YHvk-8g6XfCDKEczdHPr_VzcoupXIOicdFzs45_VEO1BJPIcMBQmIZrdqi5eqribaL0Y9mA1-vawDU-HrOnjzkfs5DVjogaEZNyABJJ7CrgyVR3H89RKOUGmA4Y/s1600-h/72780003.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 262px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSga-dGkneJwtEQ1i5YHvk-8g6XfCDKEczdHPr_VzcoupXIOicdFzs45_VEO1BJPIcMBQmIZrdqi5eqribaL0Y9mA1-vawDU-HrOnjzkfs5DVjogaEZNyABJJ7CrgyVR3H89RKOUGmA4Y/s320/72780003.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5424972710797927426" border="0" /></a><br />Everyone knows how much I adore entertaining and I'm always on the quest to find new items to enhance my next soiree. So, I searched and searched and found a few serving items that not only serve as great conversation pieces, they're sure to help you inch further to being queen (or king) of your social circle.<br /><br /><a style="color: rgb(51, 51, 153);" href="http://www.spoonsisters.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Product_Code=42809&Category_Code=1007102&Product_Count=72">Cool Jewels Ice Trays<br /></a><br /><a style="color: rgb(51, 51, 153);" href="http://www.spoonsisters.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Product_Code=42837&Category_Code=1020000&Product_Count=32"><strong style="font-weight: normal;">FINGERFOOD™ Party Plates</strong></a><br /><br /><a style="color: rgb(51, 51, 153);" href="http://www.spoonsisters.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Product_Code=52823&Category_Code=1007102&Product_Count=42"><strong style="font-weight: normal;">Floral Sculpted Nesting Bowls</strong><br /></a><br /><a style="color: rgb(51, 51, 153);" href="http://www.spoonsisters.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Product_Code=50004&Category_Code=1007102&Product_Count=51"><strong style="font-weight: normal;">Party Manners Coasters</strong><br /></a><br /><a style="color: rgb(51, 51, 153);" href="http://www.spoonsisters.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Product_Code=42810&Category_Code=1020000&Product_Count=36"><strong style="font-weight: normal;">Cool Shooters - Ice Shot Glasses</strong></a><br /><br /><a style="color: rgb(51, 51, 153);" href="http://www.k-wine.it/">K-Wine Fingerfood Wine Plate</a><br /><br /><a style="color: rgb(51, 51, 153);" href="http://www.paperorchidstationery.com/modules/cart/navigate.php?nav_id=775&page=1">Sophisticated Cupcake and Cake Wraps</a><br /><br />Happy Entertaining!!!<br /><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div>Crystal Black Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04874638986182628497noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3307276789846546376.post-1704263775023924182009-12-20T01:11:00.013-05:002009-12-24T14:37:50.210-05:00Soiree Vernacular: Canapé<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5OWeqt6dY2c7PwTB-Q4cBQfYU9nV_8FbnhJ5sRaMO5lyaZhnKbZQMDchxEIQXXQHVmNJaimH9cD5LJ6boIOg0RUSfURYNahgJ0s2ScDHvcHo6yU3ZDFwoaaumxhMjoY9LLD9recJ5tnk/s1600-h/stockxpertcom_id9305852_jpg_34999299740278d012571c993065f33d.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5OWeqt6dY2c7PwTB-Q4cBQfYU9nV_8FbnhJ5sRaMO5lyaZhnKbZQMDchxEIQXXQHVmNJaimH9cD5LJ6boIOg0RUSfURYNahgJ0s2ScDHvcHo6yU3ZDFwoaaumxhMjoY9LLD9recJ5tnk/s320/stockxpertcom_id9305852_jpg_34999299740278d012571c993065f33d.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5417199744460191170" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Many people have been serving canapés at their parties for years and just didn't know it. Canapé, pronounced like can-uh-pay, is the French term for an appetizer which uses toast, crackers or bread as a base topped with savory items such as cheeses, meats, spreads or relish. Canapés can either be hot or cold and they are often very salty or spicy to elicit thirst.<br />One of my favorite takes on the Canapé is a layered lox version with thin shaved smoked salmon and chunky cream cheese spread (cream cheese, capers, diced red onion & crumbled hard-boiled egg yolk) on melba toast topped with a sprig of dill and fresh ground pepper.<br />If you can't think of any reason to serve canapés at your next function, this one and only reason should be why...the simple fact that you get to utter such a fun word out loud...say it with me, Canapé.<br />Until next time...<b>Bon</b> <b>Appétit</b>!<input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div>Crystal Black Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04874638986182628497noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3307276789846546376.post-53837011194832482422009-12-20T00:28:00.011-05:002012-02-29T23:03:06.994-05:00RSVP Reflection: A Toast to Jones!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlu9n7hJZaa7nE_jWYEEUgsEQhXr8ZMt-dLgKgHAGiY7KYSyPuvwIKlGUyITrjypd4L0KSY2DxjV-O-flFfuWqH24d1t4gaWILNfSdL_H2vkTSpL60l3hjJfgvLPNaOpLFXRLvs5ER9Fk/s1600-h/15362_208634987315_717532315_4095943_5968403_n.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlu9n7hJZaa7nE_jWYEEUgsEQhXr8ZMt-dLgKgHAGiY7KYSyPuvwIKlGUyITrjypd4L0KSY2DxjV-O-flFfuWqH24d1t4gaWILNfSdL_H2vkTSpL60l3hjJfgvLPNaOpLFXRLvs5ER9Fk/s320/15362_208634987315_717532315_4095943_5968403_n.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5417186758050256802" border="0" /></a>Since giving birth to my beautiful son, my social life is pretty non-existent. This year I am determined to change that...until then I'll just reminisce on some fabulous events from my social life's past as I gracefully blot spit up from my sleeve. LOL!<br />A Toast to Jones! What a sophisticated cocktail soiree to celebrate the success of Jones Magazine. From nationwide distribution, chic celebrity covers and the reality show on Centric, "Keeping Up with the Joneses," there was indeed much to celebrate as this publication is poised for amazing things to come!<input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div>Crystal Black Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04874638986182628497noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3307276789846546376.post-56003829783728997182009-12-19T23:59:00.016-05:002012-02-29T23:03:47.954-05:00The Savvy Periscope...New products that are poised to make it BIG: Organic Cubcakes by Tyger Lilly<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCUnrUVw2K3h45Ifrfxn0l6X_WoQjP84HANrUiadI0-7ioFRjeRJg8DZipK0WSc5B9ao5-Y-UdMvUuyvTCfuU04AL8yBEm1nskfsO6oOBVZ_AtWpFlQ34r58U9SYpPrginwmTzEmDI2Yo/s1600-h/4683_1150089385823_1035253881_446997_1617097_n.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 297px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCUnrUVw2K3h45Ifrfxn0l6X_WoQjP84HANrUiadI0-7ioFRjeRJg8DZipK0WSc5B9ao5-Y-UdMvUuyvTCfuU04AL8yBEm1nskfsO6oOBVZ_AtWpFlQ34r58U9SYpPrginwmTzEmDI2Yo/s320/4683_1150089385823_1035253881_446997_1617097_n.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5417180239780364610" border="0" /></a>These delicious mini-cupcakes, or shall I say cubcakes, are the brainchild of successful model and DJ, <a style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0); font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.djtygerlilly.com/">Tyger Lilly</a>. She came by my office armed with these amazing little treats and within the first five minutes of her arrival I believe I'd already eaten three.<br />From the all natural and organic ingredients to the adorable green packaging (miniature biodegradable egg cartons), Cubcakes are a definitely going to be crossing the lips of the eco-chic and all of the rest of us, literally and figuratively, in the very near future!<br /><br />Pictured are the Tyger Striped Cubcakes...perfect for a stunning, sweet two-bite treat at your next soiree!<br /><br />Organic Cubcakes by Tyger Lilly<br />908.209.1155<br /><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div>Crystal Black Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04874638986182628497noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3307276789846546376.post-88439293316903023452009-12-19T23:30:00.008-05:002009-12-24T14:42:56.363-05:00Chivas and Ciroc: Advertising Done Beautifully<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHhEIknrlwN8ztRUZv1hrYnYeumtqsA2A-cMm8X3DhhXJlIWu1fgFzhK9ZZO3aAOhjAsybSxXRTabjlq7SYkGomvftueVb_OJ546-M_ebwXJLBNG_8yiiko8z7aggo_fDNxqs-8sYOxlk/s1600-h/Commerical.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 282px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHhEIknrlwN8ztRUZv1hrYnYeumtqsA2A-cMm8X3DhhXJlIWu1fgFzhK9ZZO3aAOhjAsybSxXRTabjlq7SYkGomvftueVb_OJ546-M_ebwXJLBNG_8yiiko8z7aggo_fDNxqs-8sYOxlk/s320/Commerical.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5417172959755285586" border="0" /></a>Every time I see these two strikingly beautiful commercials they always capture my undivided attention during their short, albeit effective 30 second duration. I love when attention is paid to detail and both of these ads prove that it doesn't necessarily take a "hard pitch", definable call to action or gimmick to sell a product. There's no mistake that these are luxury brands that are of high quality and intended for those who wouldn't settle for less. Kudos to the directors for using subtlety and class to relay your message!<br />P.S...Okay, I admit...I guess I am a little biased towards both of these commercials...what can I say, I'm a sucker for a great cocktail party scene!<br /><br />Here are the commercials in their entirety:<br /><a style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fF3G7vdM2UI">Ciroc: The Art of Celebration</a><br /><a style="color: rgb(255, 153, 0); font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bUMWTXoOEP0">Chivas 18 Commercial: Live with Chivalry</a><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div>Crystal Black Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04874638986182628497noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3307276789846546376.post-74454133616817696492009-12-19T22:34:00.010-05:002009-12-21T11:49:12.347-05:00Savvy Scrumptious Award Contender: Kumato<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWUqK42Ay_VlTtndcLBeuyIZkmG-yhbM6s6uLFsFEc9npMffHuFvKyAYrnD1lXmBGOD94oR1js0xaQTsrzQPpjaeAPMSnR8j4tLVFcruZMOfdY9Seo3Urxh_xM52EYmjVTdOgAQ8h3t-Q/s1600-h/article-1185037-05044DBA000005DC-414_468x223_popup.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 158px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWUqK42Ay_VlTtndcLBeuyIZkmG-yhbM6s6uLFsFEc9npMffHuFvKyAYrnD1lXmBGOD94oR1js0xaQTsrzQPpjaeAPMSnR8j4tLVFcruZMOfdY9Seo3Urxh_xM52EYmjVTdOgAQ8h3t-Q/s320/article-1185037-05044DBA000005DC-414_468x223_popup.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5417157783262828626" border="0" /></a><br />I was already a HUGE Sunset Produce fan...their divine <a style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0); font-weight: bold;" href="http://sunsetproduce.com/product/tomatoes/campari">Campari</a> and <a style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);" href="http://sunsetproduce.com/product/tomatoes/gourmet-medley">Gourmet MEDLEY</a> tomatoes have been my <b><span class="binomial"><i>Solanum lycopersicum</i></span></b><span class="binomial"> of </span>choice for several years...but when I spotted their amazing <a style="color: rgb(51, 51, 0);" href="http://sunsetproduce.com/product/tomatoes/kumato"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Kumato</span></a> I knew I was in for a treat. The fruit is striking to say the least. It's plump, stout and did I mention that it was an interesting shade of dark brown. I must admit, Kumato's appearance is a big part of its intrigue. Although its unusual, almost alien, it looks absolutely delicious.<br />As a rule of thumb with any tomato, it's best to not refrigerate. I store my tomatoes (and avocados) in a deep wooden bowl on the countertop...they're allowed to ripen beautifully and they make a chic organic accent piece in the kitchen.<br />The Kumato is not only amazing when sliced fresh off the vine with a little coarse sea salt (<a href="http://www.artisansalt.com/fumee-de-sel.html"><b><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">Fumée de Sel</span> </b></a>is one of the best), fresh mozzarella, balsamic vinegar and basil as salad caprese, but the Kumato is absolutely beautiful when sauteed, grilled or baked.<br />If you're the type who refuses to judge a book by its cover (and have an affinity for tomatoes) then you will absolutely love the Kumato. If you can't get over it's appearance then shame on you!! **playfully scolding** You have no clue of what you're missing!<br /><br /><br /><br /><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div>Crystal Black Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04874638986182628497noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3307276789846546376.post-69033505255191073972009-06-21T00:53:00.009-04:002010-02-14T12:50:48.749-05:00Hors D'oeuvres With Style: Asian Soup Spoons<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj37r31rRrhlOyrCxbbGZmEiUYZjGssZF75k0EcyrdJ6sSLzTPQXHa5XQ-uWOkj_XklZiR0NsX-GHnJ6MKhLRAShB2RD0CDckb2EOGWHUNsXlDsg19RVKMEiom2V_AD7RyI-H-ReHBiY8U/s1600-h/_MG_3790_1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5349641226608128082" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 320px; height: 214px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj37r31rRrhlOyrCxbbGZmEiUYZjGssZF75k0EcyrdJ6sSLzTPQXHa5XQ-uWOkj_XklZiR0NsX-GHnJ6MKhLRAShB2RD0CDckb2EOGWHUNsXlDsg19RVKMEiom2V_AD7RyI-H-ReHBiY8U/s320/_MG_3790_1.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div></div><br /><div>I recently hosted a soiree to celebrate the launch of my new fiction novel, <a href="http://www.shakenandstirredbook.com/"><strong><span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">Shaken and Stirred</span></strong></a>. The venue was amazing (Studio 580 Art Gallery in Midtown Manhattan), the guests were beautiful and the food was spectacular!</div><br /><div></div><div>One of the menu items was chilled Madras lentils with shaved grana parmigiano, cilantro and cream, served individually in Asian soup spoons. Aesthetically, the presentation was gorgeous (the spoons were arranged horizontally on two fresh banana leaves) and functionally, it was a life saver because there was no mess, it was portion controlled and easy to eat!</div><div></div><div>Thanks to Tasty Bite-Preferred Brands International, Norseland, Inc. Cheese (Jarlsberg, Snofrisk and Boursin Cheeses), Crave Cookies and Gud Fud Marshmallows for supplying our amazing and delicious cuisine! And thanks to photographer, Jonathan Hokklo for capturing the evening so beautifully and FloReal Florist for supplying the chic orchid arrangements!</div><div> </div><div>Click below to see pictures from the launch party:</div><div><a href="http://www.hudsonrowpublishing.com/launchpics1.html"><span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);"><strong>Slideshow #1</strong></span></a></div><div><a href="http://www.hudsonrowpublishing.com/launchpics2.html"><strong><span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">Slideshow#2</span></strong></a></div><div></div><div><strong>The full menu of the evening:</strong></div><div>*Veuve Clicquot Official Toast and Salute to the Occasion<br />*Parma Prosciutto wrapped Asparagus</div><div>*Madras Lentils with Shaved Grana Parmigiano, Cilantro and Crème Fraîche</div><div>*Passport of Cheeses (Jarlsberg-Swiss, Snofrist-Norwegian and Boursin-French)</div><div>*Olive Bar (Peppadews, Kalamata Olives, Prosciutto Stuffed Green and Garlic Stiffed Green)</div><div>*Assorted Crave Cookies (Brownie Mint, PB & Jellyness, PB & Chip and Mocha Chip)</div><div>*Mango Tartlettes with Whole Blueberries</div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div>Ciao!!!</div><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><!--Session data--><input onclick="jsCall();" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><div id="refHTML"></div>Crystal Black Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04874638986182628497noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3307276789846546376.post-87197191481135891672009-05-06T21:40:00.011-04:002009-05-20T01:41:27.036-04:00Savvy Tips: Removing Red Wine Stains from Carpet<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ6agQ2vCji_3UCx7YXSrtsbIQVIiyR0B7WGvIid95xNBB-MvmBe7K5OavU6PotBh0duml9pdbjn9ZkX5z2_6OUuaWWJ7VxfXhl7g6Vnba9sgiDA9C8yvQSwVEcdFp6ir9cuh8Q9k-G_U/s1600-h/Carpet%2520red%2520wine2.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 283px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 283px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5332891079044566786" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ6agQ2vCji_3UCx7YXSrtsbIQVIiyR0B7WGvIid95xNBB-MvmBe7K5OavU6PotBh0duml9pdbjn9ZkX5z2_6OUuaWWJ7VxfXhl7g6Vnba9sgiDA9C8yvQSwVEcdFp6ir9cuh8Q9k-G_U/s320/Carpet%2520red%2520wine2.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="color:#990000;">Savvy Tips: Removing Red Wine Stains from Carpet </span></strong><br /><span style="font-size:78%;"><em>Disclaimer: This is only an option, the effectiveness varies depending on the nap of carpet</em></span><br /><br />You've seen it before, you're at a party where the hosts are brave enough to entertain in a room with white carpet. You opt for the clear drinks and stand as still as a guard at Buckingham Palace but then the dreaded happens, someone laughing uncontrollably while holding a glass of red wine accidentally spills. Oh, the silence is deafening as you watch the frantic host attempt to clean the stain before it sets in. Don't let this be you!<br /><br /><br />Here's a quick tip to help remove red wine stains from light carpet.<br /><ul><li>First and foremost, add dry salt to the stain immediately!</li><li>Second, after no more than three minutes, scoop up the salt</li><li>Third, if there is white wine around pour it in a bowl and dip a thick, damp white towel in it and begin blotting. <strong>DO NOT RUB</strong>, only blot until you soak up the red white. (Note: white wine actually neutralizes red wine). If no white wine is available just use water.</li><li>Fourth, add club soda directly to the stain</li><li>Next, blot again until the majority of the stain soaked up</li><li>Lastly, treat the affected area with carpet cleaner or stain remover designed for clothing</li></ul><br />To prevent having to do the above, the obvious answer is to serve clear drinks if you have light carpet...<strong><em>or</em></strong>...on the same day you purchase red wine for your party, also invest in one of the new wine stain remover solutions on the market.<br /><br />Enjoy!Crystal Black Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04874638986182628497noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3307276789846546376.post-15859947708352091822009-05-06T20:39:00.013-04:002009-05-20T01:42:09.114-04:00Appetizers & Dips: Savvy Chic Guacamole<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvwbIeVVWXEqjuLq_dPmfjZ-cEevy5pvyQvtZNw_ZFomzFmzJew1WCflgWrn8QgP53wkitNd11dlLVmdAtcHjdV1o9AsZM0hduTuiIqjkqB8kEiGztbk4o0MGs1rEagAs9CuPXkaNzpq0/s1600-h/guacamole.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 258px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5332877535668068786" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvwbIeVVWXEqjuLq_dPmfjZ-cEevy5pvyQvtZNw_ZFomzFmzJew1WCflgWrn8QgP53wkitNd11dlLVmdAtcHjdV1o9AsZM0hduTuiIqjkqB8kEiGztbk4o0MGs1rEagAs9CuPXkaNzpq0/s320/guacamole.jpg" /></a><br /><div><span style="color:#999900;"><strong>Appetizers & Dips: Savvy Chic <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">Guacamole</span></strong></span></div><div><em>Makes 1 bowl</em></div><div></div><div>2 Large Ripe Avocados (halved and pitted)</div><div>2 Red <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">Chili</span> Peppers (seeded and chopped)</div><div>1 Fresh Garlic Clove (minced)</div><div>2 Medium Shallots (diced)</div><div>2 Tablespoons Olive Oil</div><div>2 Tablespoons Cilantro (finely chopped)</div><div>1/2 Ripe Tomato (seeded and pulped)</div><div>Juice of 1 Fresh Lemon or Lime</div><div>Coarse Sea Salt (to taste)</div><div>Fresh Ground Pepper (to taste)</div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div>Scoop out avocado from peel into a large glass bowl</div><div>Using a fork or potato masher, mash the avocado until smooth</div><div>Add chilies, garlic, shallots, olive oil, cilantro, tomato and lemon/lime juice then stir</div><div>Add sea salt and pepper to taste</div><div></div><div>Enjoy!!!</div><div></div><div></div>Crystal Black Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04874638986182628497noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3307276789846546376.post-45205447983094356592009-03-15T15:19:00.014-04:002009-03-16T12:52:47.011-04:00The Savvy Palate: Oh how I love you my sweet Peppadew<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0vDyHpMgkI0De3UOr2WjkpgLKk7Ku2c27v3z96nGA0HpXxjmzn11ncuSvQsy5nNlxpUSJbf8J3feQXRY5Abm053GG9x3US3o-_X3ohQnV3HrhHyBniiCz78LdO49WrSam74wn0kqT9LE/s1600-h/600px-Peppadew.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5313505000562189458" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0vDyHpMgkI0De3UOr2WjkpgLKk7Ku2c27v3z96nGA0HpXxjmzn11ncuSvQsy5nNlxpUSJbf8J3feQXRY5Abm053GG9x3US3o-_X3ohQnV3HrhHyBniiCz78LdO49WrSam74wn0kqT9LE/s320/600px-Peppadew.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div></div><div>I was first introduced to this awesome <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">litte</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">piquanté</span> pepper in 2007 at the Fancy Food Show and fell in love at first bite (and yes, I acknowledge that it was a late discovery). Gaining <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">notoriety</span> in the 90's, the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Peppadew</span> is actually a fruit that's native to the Limpopo region of South Africa. The name <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Peppadew</span> refers to the brand name and not its classification which is derived from the obvious words "Pepper" and "Dew". Its flavor is sweet with only the slightest tinge of heat and it has an appearance of a cherry tomato that's been cut at the top, due to the standard process of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">deseeding</span>. If you want to grow and harvest <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Peppadews</span> in your own backyard, your chances are slim to none not only because of the stringent climate and processing specs, but the company <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Peppadew</span> International holds all growing rights to the plant. Just because you can't grow <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Peppadews</span> yourself doesn't mean they're not accessible. Go to any specialty/organic/gourmet market and chances are if they have an olive bar, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Peppadews</span> are included. Also, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Peppadews</span> are sold by the jar in the pickle/relish/condiment aisles of the aforementioned retailers.</div><br /><div>The employees at the Fresh Market Indianapolis must know my father by name because he frequents the store everyday to pick up fresh fare, including my beloved <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Peppadew</span>. He discovered them on his own and I guarantee once you discover them, you'll be hooked!</div>Crystal Black Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04874638986182628497noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3307276789846546376.post-534137374192795802009-03-06T21:01:00.013-05:002009-03-11T17:02:57.086-04:00New Savvy Feature: Wine and Fuss<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDeVqsGz4zlSBgDgD4kLbCu3jlF_7lGo2YubBJ71R51uDtHvbxwx8wct9mcLus5WwcUGf1_UAENi7vQk0JeMkRZ9YnRZ4LxbyswZwEf9_PHBcWF9SELzpkBhQsHKcmF1zr1CcTrpNczWk/s1600-h/1139966_top_up.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5310274698087792594" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDeVqsGz4zlSBgDgD4kLbCu3jlF_7lGo2YubBJ71R51uDtHvbxwx8wct9mcLus5WwcUGf1_UAENi7vQk0JeMkRZ9YnRZ4LxbyswZwEf9_PHBcWF9SELzpkBhQsHKcmF1zr1CcTrpNczWk/s320/1139966_top_up.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size:85%;">This is a new feature on <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">EPOTLA</span></span> exploring the often intimidating and misunderstood world of wine.</span></div><br /><div align="center"></div><div></div><div><strong><u><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="color:#660000;">Wine</span> and <span style="color:#999900;">Fuss</span></span></u></strong></div><div><em><strong>Wine Speak</strong></em></div><div>Have you ever attended an event an overheard conversations about wine that sound like this, "What an interesting bouquet of peach, pepper and apples" or "This Merlot isn't as full bodied as one would expect." Bouquets and bodies aren't words that most people associate with a beverage, but my friends, this is common wine speak. Here are a few standard terms you'll hear wine aficionados throw around (good to know so you won't rush to find a priest when you hear someone classify a wine as <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">tannic</span></span>).</div><br /><div></div><div><strong>Body:</strong> The sensation of weight when you have wine in your mouth (light, medium or full)</div><div><strong>Dry:</strong> The lack of sweetness</div><div><strong>Bouquet:</strong> The scent of older wines</div><div><strong>Aroma:</strong> The scent of younger wines</div><div><strong>Fruity:</strong> Wine that smells and tastes like fruit, sweet or dry</div><div><strong>Soft:</strong> A smooth wine</div><div><strong>Crisp:</strong> A pleasant, yet acidic wine</div><div><strong><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Tannic</span></span>:</strong> Red wine that leaves the mouth dry</div><div><strong>Finish:</strong> The sensation you get from a wine after its swallowed</div><br /><div></div><div><strong><u><span style="color:#333399;">Crystal's Pick</span>:</u></strong> <strong><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Monbazillac</span></span> 2003, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Duc</span></span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">de</span></span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Castellac</span></span> (<em><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Monbazillac</span></span>, France</em>)</strong></div><div>I'll be the first to admit, I'm guilty of a severe wine crime. I drink dessert wines for dinner...and you know what, oh well. The only exception to my repeat felonies is <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Monbazillac</span></span>, which I only drink at its appropriate time. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Uber</span></span> sweet, lovely and soft with a honey like consistency, this is hands down one the most decadent indulgences you'll ever experience.</div>Crystal Black Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04874638986182628497noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3307276789846546376.post-1311008569118243482009-03-06T18:05:00.011-05:002009-03-11T17:03:57.991-04:00Reader Q & A: Is it appropriate to serve coffee at a cocktail party?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg58XnyXEYvweBS80NzHGsaz-yO0I1IL3IiLAia22FvSoGhimx_kXxJ2a8Y6pXCHfup54k6sJ5lm2UR2wEruqeyTK1B0IpS22KIpI-3FdCP944C3HIhDTDqWuFtM6_AZOmADvfa-xDn4Jc/s1600-h/1003544_42197276.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5310238426967661266" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 214px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg58XnyXEYvweBS80NzHGsaz-yO0I1IL3IiLAia22FvSoGhimx_kXxJ2a8Y6pXCHfup54k6sJ5lm2UR2wEruqeyTK1B0IpS22KIpI-3FdCP944C3HIhDTDqWuFtM6_AZOmADvfa-xDn4Jc/s320/1003544_42197276.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div></div><br /><div>Q: Is it appropriate to serve coffee at a cocktail party?</div><div>-Surya V., Brooklyn</div><div></div><br /><div>A: By all means...in fact, use it as an opportunity to create specialty coffee drinks. The usual liqueur <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">suspects</span> are Irish Creams, coffee flavored liqueurs and hazelnut liqueurs...but an unexpected take would be to incorporate flavors that aren't always top of mind. Here are a few suggestions:</div><div></div><br /><div><strong><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Amarula</span></strong>-a South African produced liqueur derived from the fruit of the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">marula</span> tree...the flavor is very sweet with hints of caramel and its consistency is similar to a standard Irish cream. I first experienced <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Amarula</span> about a decade ago after my in-laws returned from a South African get-away with a full case. I've been hooked ever since.</div><br /><div></div><div><strong><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Crème</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">de</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">menthe</span></strong>-One would assume that <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">crème</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">de</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">menthe</span> would be an extremely popular mix, the fact is, people often associate and limit this mint flavored liqueur to the Christmas holidays. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Crème</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">de</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">menthe</span>, in it's clear form, is a wonderful addition to warm and cold coffee drinks anytime of the year.</div><div></div><br /><div><strong>Dark rum & honey</strong>-I smile when I think of this combination because it conjures up fond memories of the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">Dominican</span> Republic. As the core ingredients of the popular Dominican drink Mama Juana, one part rum to two parts honey mixes wonderfully with most warm cocktails...it's also rumored to have an <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">aphrodisiacal</span> effect.</div><br /><div></div><div><strong>Cocoa/chocolate liqueur</strong>-I'm in love with a specific brand of chocolate liqueur (from a world <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">renown</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">chocolatier</span>...think brown & gold packaging, multiple retail locations, a horse as part of it's logo...you get it). Chocolate liqueur is wonderful on it's own or mixed in hot or cold coffee drinks. Another option would be to combine two parts coffee with one part drinking chocolate (think, warmed, melted chocolate with little to no combined liquid).</div><div></div><br /><div><strong>Dulce <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">de</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18">Leche</span> Liqueur</strong>-Made from Caribbean rum, caramel and cream, this flavor combination is a natural pairing for coffee. </div><div></div><div><strong><u>Additional considerations:</u></strong></div><div><strong>Coffee</strong>-Double roasted French or full Vienna...or to experience something new, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_19">Sidama</span> coffee from Ethiopia (the birthplace of coffee) </div><div><strong>Toppings</strong>-Whipped cream, dark powdered cocoa, cinnamon, powdered vanilla </div><div><strong>Helpful Tidbit</strong>-One pound of coffee serves an average of 70 cups</div>Crystal Black Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04874638986182628497noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3307276789846546376.post-41977288117157431592009-01-20T17:18:00.012-05:002009-01-22T17:33:26.669-05:00The Savvy Host: Menu Planning-Designing the Perfect "Nibble to Nosh" Ratio<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdq2M1yaDJuo8hVaRzdiw6lZvRpoZFEV0BCcI__zcbfF7MMzIPFNGCuyOdcnfcRt1HN0QFN0QWEEN8psyfE9nCrVLvbXjUBWqYfl03REf4Qke7i7_kZwVd1SqgU_Gvr3SnpX2mnwXXrfk/s1600-h/stockxpertcom_id30219551_jpg_2f72ddde4f9e4a53cb56214a1ad22309.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdq2M1yaDJuo8hVaRzdiw6lZvRpoZFEV0BCcI__zcbfF7MMzIPFNGCuyOdcnfcRt1HN0QFN0QWEEN8psyfE9nCrVLvbXjUBWqYfl03REf4Qke7i7_kZwVd1SqgU_Gvr3SnpX2mnwXXrfk/s320/stockxpertcom_id30219551_jpg_2f72ddde4f9e4a53cb56214a1ad22309.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5293514238148701906" border="0" /></a><br />People frequently ask me for my advice on planning the perfect menu for their cocktail party. Depending on your theme, specific dishes will vary, however here are some tips to keep in mind.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 0);">Design the perfect "Nibble to Nosh" ratio<br /></span></span><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Al</span><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">wa</span><span><span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 0);"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">ys make sure you have the following:<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />2-3 Bowl items<br /></span><span style="font-style: italic;">i.e. Olives, Nuts, Mixed Snacks</span><br />Strategically placed throughout the room, easily accessible to guests<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Gourmet Cheese Display</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">i.e. Piave, Smoky Cheddar, Camembert and Stilton</span><br />Served at room temperature, most cheeses will taste amazing and allow for easier chunking/cutting/spreading/crumbling.<br />Enhancement: Garnish tray with tangy dried fruits/fruit spreads or honey.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">1 Cold Nibble Options</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">i.e. Crudites (</span></span></span></span><span><span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 0);"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><span style="font-style: italic;">Assortment of Raw Veggies), Chili-Rubbed Prawn Cocktail</span><br />Tray size depending on number of guests<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />2 Warm hors d' oeuvre Options</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">i.e. Mushroom Crostini, Brie & Spinach Stuffed Puff Pastry</span><br />The easier the item is to eat (neatly) with one hand, the better!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">1-2 Heavy Selection</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">i.e. Crab Cakes w/Dijon Drizzle, Prosciutto wrapped Scallop Lollipops w/Sweet & Smoked Paprika </span><br />Filling enough to satisfy, yet portable<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">1-2 Sweet Options</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">i.e. Lemon Curd and Mixed Berry Fruit Tarts, Assorted Cocoa Truffles</span><br />Provide chocolate for the chocolate people and fruit for the fruit people...or just put smiles on the faces of those who like both!<br /><br /></span></span></span><span><span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 0);"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Bon Appetit!!!</span></span></span>Crystal Black Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04874638986182628497noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3307276789846546376.post-64853610816227416532009-01-04T23:07:00.016-05:002009-01-07T09:52:54.936-05:00Entertaining Experts-Doug and Marguerite Beers of Castle Club (Jamao al Norte, Dominican Republic)<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBnLlRRXjRB5hS_SOJAFKgomwLdX-zeKlax1rjYkSwgKCjyqWl5FEeHzCeFJdxO8_1gKlxYHdGrEp1GT7CjTff24PFJHNTvNVNqBZ0NpBzw4MQUruvDtYqoIGeumyGXZG_kkn8hLB1odo/s1600-h/Castle+Club6.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBnLlRRXjRB5hS_SOJAFKgomwLdX-zeKlax1rjYkSwgKCjyqWl5FEeHzCeFJdxO8_1gKlxYHdGrEp1GT7CjTff24PFJHNTvNVNqBZ0NpBzw4MQUruvDtYqoIGeumyGXZG_kkn8hLB1odo/s320/Castle+Club6.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5288085073624833442" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyVJB0Qh8MmD_ZKaboPF01HXIlaLy9J5R91dekjOAAZYRMsJOJy-pT6pVhQJ8WU51QV6-2tSGAId6Rew1f2zLwlSEVUMYt6RVsBALGHdxybUoGJYnxJrTgaRxxc3o75MQrxMfgJpurInk/s1600-h/Castle+Club3.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyVJB0Qh8MmD_ZKaboPF01HXIlaLy9J5R91dekjOAAZYRMsJOJy-pT6pVhQJ8WU51QV6-2tSGAId6Rew1f2zLwlSEVUMYt6RVsBALGHdxybUoGJYnxJrTgaRxxc3o75MQrxMfgJpurInk/s320/Castle+Club3.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5287662057338261314" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPbMD0RpFTGzUwdikZP17hyphenhyphenJFJ1RA4eboBfUXrqevF11o2tTF_oN2WLUL6SruWwuUxqPAEkNC4q3_GUHqgIGJSoicD2TKiLTg0UR1TlTIQ9-QCymWafyOQ_0sR8UwFwqb0kqGsm0Zjjr0/s1600-h/Castle+Club2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPbMD0RpFTGzUwdikZP17hyphenhyphenJFJ1RA4eboBfUXrqevF11o2tTF_oN2WLUL6SruWwuUxqPAEkNC4q3_GUHqgIGJSoicD2TKiLTg0UR1TlTIQ9-QCymWafyOQ_0sR8UwFwqb0kqGsm0Zjjr0/s320/Castle+Club2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5287662316727507874" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMGYF3He4G6Wvnnpx_ZwihNXK9liv8UMlyM4cqVHSnD3XhoZaWq9veg_a7JscIXjErIk3iLIINVSDLtkw9R7lqsFPLSiVQLpzIXEQqLRrhVRgW4QR5YbLK5H-XKjTg9yFEOO2rcqDVI9c/s1600-h/Castle+Club4.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMGYF3He4G6Wvnnpx_ZwihNXK9liv8UMlyM4cqVHSnD3XhoZaWq9veg_a7JscIXjErIk3iLIINVSDLtkw9R7lqsFPLSiVQLpzIXEQqLRrhVRgW4QR5YbLK5H-XKjTg9yFEOO2rcqDVI9c/s320/Castle+Club4.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5287664002913901234" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmXboP1i3ssGlq-WFc8lqXApVTZh0M_baPGAysM17CLVO3_2FLuoENegs6dQXnpAFGvzA0mpwCT5VPZxwGVgjLt9TzCnJ3xND7tQeov9UZmJvalFLm9NdmLPwXozfFE0bVRiyFSzjQmXg/s1600-h/Castle+Club5.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmXboP1i3ssGlq-WFc8lqXApVTZh0M_baPGAysM17CLVO3_2FLuoENegs6dQXnpAFGvzA0mpwCT5VPZxwGVgjLt9TzCnJ3xND7tQeov9UZmJvalFLm9NdmLPwXozfFE0bVRiyFSzjQmXg/s320/Castle+Club5.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5287663918841460514" /></a><br /><br />In December, my husband and I had the pleasure to attend the wedding of some close friends in Cabarete, Dominican Republic. The ceremony took place in one of the most breath-taking and interesting venues I'd ever visited, <a href="http://www.castleclubonline.com/"><span style="font-weight:bold;">Castle Club</span></a> in Jamao al Norte, 20 minutes outside of Cabarete. This remote, open air, stone mini-castle is nestled on a mountaintop with a Southern terrace that overlooks unspoiled valleys, rivers and rolling tropical hills for as far as the eye can see. The lovely owners, New Jersey natives Doug and Marguerite Beers, went out of their way to ensure the ceremony and post ceremony cocktail hour were exquisite and for that, they made the experience memorable and allowed their guests to feel like pampered royalty.<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">MENU-Post ceremony cocktail hour:</span><br />Zesty cheese cookies<br />Three tiered goat cheese torte (natural, sun-dried tomato, herb)<br />Salmon canapes<br />Homemade chicken liver pate<br />Local fruits<br />Rum cocktailsCrystal Black Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04874638986182628497noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3307276789846546376.post-46650415832459772662008-11-03T22:30:00.006-05:002008-11-05T02:53:34.694-05:00Easy Appetizer-Pan Con Tomate<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_ECh9_Xg8qH9R9jH_5ZqZ3iKALEtMIQtkLdqG8_1pF6gfl8pgnjkItMoMHXBosY0D9O3uwLJWFbbsQ2zX15B8BKSHXA9kXF9XCRx_3teOEgkNAF27BTtgIkHHMm74CJ8mDbFU3Vorx_s/s1600-h/hoar_pan_con_tomate_01.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 201px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_ECh9_Xg8qH9R9jH_5ZqZ3iKALEtMIQtkLdqG8_1pF6gfl8pgnjkItMoMHXBosY0D9O3uwLJWFbbsQ2zX15B8BKSHXA9kXF9XCRx_3teOEgkNAF27BTtgIkHHMm74CJ8mDbFU3Vorx_s/s320/hoar_pan_con_tomate_01.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5264644564512649666" /></a><br /><br />New York City has the most amazing eateries in the world, especially their vast array of Spanish tapas restaurants. One of my favorite things to order as an appetizer is Pan Con Tomate which simply means Bread with Tomato...oh but it's not really that simple. This amazing dish consists of rustic bread toasted or grilled to perfection topped with extra virgin olive oil and a savory tomato spread. <br />When I make Pan Con Tomate at home I deviate a bit from the traditional Spanish style by adding rosemary. With or without rosemary the outcome is extremely delicious.<br /><br />8 slices rustic bread, cut into thick slices<br />2 cloves garlic peeled and coarsely chopped<br />4 vine ripe red tomatoes cut in half<br />2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil<br />Coarse sea salt<br />Fresh ground pepper<br />Rosemary<br /><br />Lightly brush olive oil over bread. Broil or grill bread approximately 2 to 4 minutes per side. <br />Carefully spoon the insides out of all tomato halves and add to a bowl (save tomato "shells"). Combine 1 teaspoon olive oil, garlic, rosemary, sea salt (to taste) and ground pepper (to taste) to the tomato pulp. Stir until all ingredients are thoroughly combined. Spoon mixture back into tomato "shells" and place on sprayed or oiled baking dish. Broil for 10 minutes.<br />Spoon tomato mixture on toast, serve immediately and enjoy!<br />Live in NYC...Don't have time to cook? Visit my two favorite Tapas Restaurants:<br /><a href="http://www.mercatnyc.com">Mercat</a><br /><a href="http://www.alcalarestaurant.com/">Alcala</a>Crystal Black Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04874638986182628497noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3307276789846546376.post-37216086297296560402008-11-03T22:11:00.007-05:002008-11-03T22:25:42.921-05:00Tricks of the Trade-Do It Yourself Pastry/Piping Bags<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQIlxDDJshOu51AGteZ8jfapTarEATDpHmi5zFPyvb9Ear1zFXwcdnOIFcHaEthjypP27lmF2fKSznv0kAJ0MfBF0iTbikWKG-DfkGNzZq8yc465HfnxP14o75m3dN4BWBNv9w0isZFeo/s1600-h/nw_pipingbag.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 274px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQIlxDDJshOu51AGteZ8jfapTarEATDpHmi5zFPyvb9Ear1zFXwcdnOIFcHaEthjypP27lmF2fKSznv0kAJ0MfBF0iTbikWKG-DfkGNzZq8yc465HfnxP14o75m3dN4BWBNv9w0isZFeo/s320/nw_pipingbag.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5264638325195124962" /></a><br /><br />What You Need:<br />Quality Ziplock Sandwich Bags<br />Pliable Icing<br />Icing Tips-Optional<br /><br />Add icing to an open ziplock sandwich bag then zip close. Optional-place whichever icing tip you would like inside a bottom corner of the bag. If you do not use icing tips the bag will work just fine. Cut a small hole in the corner of the bag. Gently work the icing down towards the tip opening and decorate!<br />This can be used to write on cakes, create designs or professionally ice cupcakes.Crystal Black Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04874638986182628497noreply@blogger.com