Any of the imaginative, beautifully plated recipes in Memorable Recipes To Share with Family and Friends will create a memorable event, but the word share is important, as the book is a testament to the power of sharing food with those you love. Memorable Recipes is not a hostess-with-the-mostest book, but one that celebrates the occasions when friends gather together. As generous as it is tasteful, this book is ready to inspire the most elegant dinner party, a carefully orchestrated luncheon, a casual back yard barbecue, or a cocktail gathering.
As president emeritus of Sur la Table, one expects a cookbook by Renée Behnke to be elegant as well as meticulous. Memorable Recipes lives up to, even surpasses, those high expectations, but adds the generous, personal touch of Behnke herself. Each recipe is a star on its own, but each is accompanied by a brief, often nostalgic note about the recipe, as well as with ideas to create an entire menu to accompany the recipe. An accomplished hostess, Behnke gives do-ahead tips for the recipes, even a few menus that have detailed game plans.
The sensational recipes have been collected from Behnke's childhood, from her adult travels around the world, savoring the cuisines of many countries and cultures, as well as from her own successful parties. The gorgeous photographs by Angie Norwood Browne show the dish in its finished state, but give hints for serving ideas: Baked Artichoke is served in the copper pot in which it was cooked; Mini Corn Muffins are served in a wire basket for the most casual get-together; Zippy Gazpacho is served in elegant clear glasses with a stalk of celery as garnish; Beet and Fennel Salad with Walnut Dressing is dramatic against a black pottery plate; an elegant -most elegant- Halibut with Nut Crust and Apple Vinaigrette is served on the finest china; Ginger Cake with Lemon Cream, stars on a clear glass plate that does not detract from its moist and luscious appeal.
Behnke has sections of advice on party-giving, on techniques that are frequently used in the recipes, and a collection of menu ideas. These include:
- An Evening in Spain
- Celebrate Italy
- A Celebration Dinner
- An Exotic Moroccan Soirée, Cocktail Fare Gone Wild
- Dining Alfresco
- A Mardi Gras Feast
This book provides inspiration and information to create the moments that live in the lore of family and friends. "Remember when...."
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