Wednesday, October 28, 2009

the Fare

Normally, no-fuss means going out. Or ordering in. However, we've all felt the tug at our wallets lately, and as such, I've been making more of an effort at no-fuss parties at home. It's not an easy task for a party control freak such as myself, but it can be done...

There is a personality on cable that extols the virtues of semi-homemade. This isn't a bad idea. If you start with a good base, and embellish it just a little bit, it can become something wonderful with the smallest amount of effort.

I love the idea of surprising guests - just when they think they are getting foie gras, I serve them pizza. Take-out pizza, no less. Every neighborhood has a favorite pizza joint, and with a few additional sides (anchovies, hot pepper flakes, fresh Parmesan), you are good to go. (Just be sure to spruce up your platter with plenty of antipasti items to round out the meal).

To finish, you can't go wrong with chocolate. I like to lay a variety of truffles on a pretty platter, along with fresh berries and some dried fruits, such as apricots or cherries. But, if you choose really good chocolates, they need no embellishment. One of my absolute favorites is Chocolat Celeste - located in the Twin Cities, owner Mary Leonard has infused her truffles with a passion for perfection, and the result is an amazing assortment of unusual but delicious flavor combinations. Believe me, even if your main course is turkey meatloaf with ketchup on top, you'll be a rockstar at dessert if you serve these truffles.

Kiersa Notz, Creative Director, the Affair

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