It’s Dinner Time!

Dinner time is a time to sit back, relax, reconnect, and, well…. eat!  Whether your having a special family dinner or a gathering with friends, you can add a touch of glamor to dinner time  by dressing up your table.  This can be as simple as adding fresh blossoms and fabric napkins to your table.  I’ve put together some beautiful spa-inspired table settings to get your creativity stirring…

Colleen Mullaney has her roots in floral design, interior design, and architecture, and creates beautiful table settings.  Check out her unique style and creative crafty books at www.colleenmullaney.com.

The Pedistal Beverage Server

Serve your signature drink in style!

A simple, elegant place setting with fresh pears as the centerpiece.  Layering plates of different shapes and colors adds depth and interest to your table.  Add  candles and natural place mats and your on your way to creating an intimate and relaxing mood.

Looking for recipe ideas?  Here’s a few spa cuisine recipes to try out!

Grilled Pear Salad with Candied Almonds

By Candace www.ishotthechef.com

Ingredients:

• 2 pears (must be ripe but firm) peeled and sliced
  3 c baby arugula
  2 tbsp olive oil, extra virgin
  1 tbsp rice wine vinegar
  16 grape tomatoes, sliced in half
  1/2 yellow pepper, diced
  blue cheese
  1/4 c pomegranate seeds
  salt
  pepper

1. Heat Grill pan over medium high heat and place pear slices on pan.  Grill for 2-3 minutes, then flip and grill the other side for another 2 minutes.  Be careful not to overcook the pears, as they will get mushy.  Do this in small batches and let cool.  When cooled, slice, or dice depending on how you want to serve it.

2. Toss arugula with the olive oil, vinegar, salt and pepper.  Arrange on the plate and scatter the grilled pears, tomatoes, yellow pepper, blue cheese and pomegranate seeds on top.

Candied Almonds:

• 1/4 c sugar
  2 tbsp water
  1 c whole blanched almonds
  1 tsp unsalted butter

1. Place foil on cookie sheet and set aside. Stir sugar and water in heavy medium saucepan over low heat until sugar dissolves. Increase heat to medium and boil without stirring until mixture turns deep amber color, occasionally brushing down sides of pan with wet pastry brush and swirling pan, about 4-7 minutes.

2. Mix in almonds and butter. Immediately pour out onto foil, separating almonds with fork. Cool completely and store in an airtight container.

Sprinkle over salad

Spiced Apple and Chamomile Tea

The Golden Door Health Spa

2 1/2 c. unfiltered apple juice
1/8 tsp. ground ginger
1/8 tsp. ground cloves
Thin apple slices
2 c. brewed double-strength chamomile tea
1/8 tsp. cinnamon

Heat all ingredients except apple slices to just under boil. Strain. Pour into mugs. Garnish with apple and serve. Also can be served cold over ice. 4 servings.

Enjoy!!