small indulgences.

The hor d'oeuvre is probably my favorite course to design and prepare (as well as eat!).  There are endless ways to be creative with these one-bite sensations in terms of color, presentation, flavor profiles and plating.  Even the simplest hors d'oeuvres can really vamp up your cocktail hour or even a laid-back get-together.  The key is to use quality ingredients and to keep things simple.  One of the most important aspects of a good hors d'oeuvre is that it be easy to eat with a cocktail in hand - in other words, make sure it is no larger than one bite or so.  Here is a delicious recipe that incorporates quality ingredients with a hint of sophistication, while still presenting them in a rustic, approachable fashion - Pancetta Crisps with Goat Cheese + Pear.  The salty pancetta paired with the subtly sweet pear and silky goat cheese is the perfect compliment to your next summer soiree! Enjoy!

Pancetta Crisps with Goat Cheese + Pear 

[via Bon Appetit]



champagne wishes + caviar dreams...

I've always had an affinity for champagne, but after coming across these 2011 Moet & Chandon ads starring Scarlett Johansson, my love for the bubbly instantly went straight to my head.  There is nothing more simple, yet elegantly delightful than a sparkly glass of champagne...unless of course, you pair it with a dime-sized indulgence of caviar.  For your next cocktail gathering, consider serving the celebratory drink with equally exquisite Potato Pancakes with Smoked Salmon, Dilled Creme Fraiche and Caviar (they sound complicated, but they're really very simple).  Bon Appetit [tres chic]!

 

Image courtesy of Food & Wine. Recipe courtesy of Wolfgang Puck.

GOOD TASTE TIP: Not in the mood to light the stove?  Whip up the creme fraiche the night before and layer the smoked salmon and caviar* atop simple black bread, toasted french bread (sliced thinly) or small, substantial crackers.  For a less extravagant night in, serve this delicious hors d'oeuvre paired with a nice Pinot Noir or Pinot Grigio. 

*Caviar may be replaced with a simple sprig of dill for those less-inclined to this delicacy.