This delicious lemon raspberry loaf is a welcome addition to brunch, or it can be enjoyed as a not-too-sweet treat any time of day. If you want a little added sweetness, add a light drizzle of the optional lemon glaze right before serving. Raspberries are members of the rose family. We generally think of red raspberries but there are also golden (yellow) and black raspberries. Which ever color you choose, don't wash before storing as this causes the berries to spoil quickly. Handle the delicate berries as little as possible. To wash, use a colander to hold the berries and dip in water then let drain just before using. Raspberries are nutritional powerhouses. They are high in Vitamin C, low in sugar, high in anti-oxidants, good source of fiber, help prevent diabetes and are good ... [Read More]
brunch
Ham and Parmesan Mini Quiche
A platter of these little quiche looks quite elegant on a table for a shower or tea party. They are surprisingly filling so they are perfect for a small dinner party celebrating Mother’s Day, birthday or other special occasion. Be prepared as the hostess though. Do NOT worry when the room goes silent. That's every hostess nightmare. But this time everyone is just focused on the creamy wonder of this little quiche! They are unbelievably good! And so easy to make! I recently made them three times in one month and looked for excuses to make them again. They are that good and every bit as good when served to the family, too. Using refrigerated pie dough makes things extra easy. Yes, you can warm the dough in the microwave according to package directions, but it is much ... [Read More]
Potato Nests and holiday menu suggestions
I served this at a tea party brunch for something a little more substantial and with a different texture and savory taste than the usual fare. I served in the fancy ramekins in which they were baked. A platter of these nicely turned out would be spectacular, especially with a few chopped chives over the top and perhaps a bit of other green garnish tucked in between the cakes. Foods that are already portioned make a buffet line move quickly. This is quick to make because you start out with packaged shredded potatoes. I used the kind found in the refrigerated section. The shredded Parmesan cheese adds to the flavor and you can use your choice of cheese for the remaining measure of cheese. I didn't want my potato nests to have a bright yellow color so chose a white yellow mix of ... [Read More]
Tablescape for Brunch and Tea
Technically, this should be titled "Brunch with a Tea Party theme and a nod to Valentine's Day". Because tea is served mid afternoon. It didn't even qualify for Elevenses. The invitation read 10 am. This affair was an American hybrid. Tea and nibbles served when it fit the schedule of those attending. But no matter, because the reason for getting together was to have fun and good food no matter the time of day. Or the weather; because it snowed -- and snowed -- and snowed! I love using this beautiful white and gold china that belonged to Wheel's mother. The graceful shape of the pieces makes my heart sing. And so do the raised swirls and curls of the design, elegant white on white. White damask napkins clasped with a ring topped with a silk gardenia. Gold ... [Read More]
