three on the side

perfecting the "done before they arrive" party- a work in progress
Categories: Veggies and Sides, Dinner Party, Posted on May 27, 2013 by Sandy Bergsten
In our family the birthday boy (or girl) chooses the menu. So it was only fitting that I serve up three of my husband’s favorite sides along his celebratory strip steak. Not only is this trio a treat for taste buds its also a delight for the eyes with their bright colors and complimentary textures. The best part- all can be made and prepped ahead
continue reading →

surf and turf

perfecting the "done before they arrive" party- a work in progress
Categories: Salads and Dressings, Fish and Seafood, Breads, Pizza, Tarts, Dinner Party, Sources, Posted on May 20, 2013 by Sandy Bergsten
My hubby just turned another year. He stated he didn’t want any fanfare but I know him well enough to know that he would appreciate a little something special to mark the occasion. So I invited a pair of close friends and put together a menu that would wow without any muss and fuss. What would be better than breaking down the steak house version of
continue reading →

ole´

food detective
Categories: Beverages, Cocktail Party, Posted on May 13, 2013 by Sandy Bergsten
Last Sunday marked not only Cinco de Mayo but a special friend’s seventieth birthday. They threw the perfect outdoors bash complete with a traveling mariachi band, killer authentic Mexican fare and some of the best margaritas I have ever had. The secret it turns out is fresh citrus juice steeped in zest. This week I took a stab at liberating this
continue reading →

delegate

perfecting the "done before they arrive" party- a work in progress
Categories: Appetizers, Cocktail Party, Dinner Party, Sources, Posted on May 6, 2013 by Sandy Bergsten
Just got back from Philadelphia where I was a delegate for Garden Club of America’s centennial annual meeting. Needless to say it was an auspicious affair. Among the keynote speakers were Alice Waters chef, author, activist and owner of Chez Panisse in Berkeley. A champion of the organic food movement, Waters spoke of how gardening had shaped her
continue reading →