Last night, I worked on menu planning and made a couple of things I would need for my party Saturday--however, I did all that in a messy environment, which is really not good for cooks.
So this morning, I got my stuff together, cleaned up the kitchen, pulled out all my gear I would need, and then got to work on this menu (I spent at least an hour just cleaning herbs and chopping or getting them ready for all the dishes here--the garlics I posted last night are almost gone!):
Dill cured pork tenderloins
Shrimp Remoulade
Smoked Salmon with caviar
Goat cheese, pesto, and sundried tomato spread for crackers (topped with pine nuts)
pumpkin seed tabbouleh with toasted naan bread
Hummus with pita chips
Roasted rosemary and garlic potatoes, Fire-grilled mini-bell peppers, Roasted asparagus (all of these will make up a vegetable antipasto with artichoke hearts and olives in a balsamic dressing).
Caprese Salad (tomatoes, mozzarella, basil)
Cherries, dried apricots, and wild dried blueberries
We'll have cream puffs for dessert and a neighbor will bring some baked goods :)
(happy to report I have almost completed all cooking--so tomorrow, I will be cleaning the house--I hate that part).
My back and feet hurt. I can't believe that years ago, I used to do this menu and more for over 75 people, with kids attending in addition, and with a homemade gift of salad dressing for everyone who attended (who was I???). I'm expecting about 25-35 tomorrow night. I'll try to post a collage of my progress today. I better get to bed though.
You amaze me! I entertained a few of my long time Sunday school friends tonight and I ordered pizza...I can't image pulling off such an exquisite menu!
Considering all the work you've been doing, you should be congratulated for producing such an interesting photo as well. I love all the colour you've managed to include.
I've been away, as you know. So I was expecting a hot dog at the end. ;^)