Simple and Succulent

A roundup of my favorite succulent centerpiece ideas via the web. I love that these are creative, simple, and inexpensive!

measuring cups

takeout container

escort cards

old colander

Host a TACO-QUE!

Let's face it, by August the hot dogs and hamburgers have lost their luster. But the barbecue parties don't have to stop now! Why not spice things up and invite your friends over for a TACO-QUE!

Here are some ideas to spice up your grill!

jicama watermelon salsa

fish tacos

grilled corn with lime, chipotle, and manchego cheese

grilled nachos

and let us not forget...

{image @ babble}

Baked Zucchini Fries

A little twist on your typical summer veggie dish. Plus another great way to get your picky eaters to eat their vegetables.

2 egg whites

1/3 cup skim milk

1-2 cups of seasoned panko breadcrumbs

2 medium zucchini, cut into eighths lengthwise

extra-virgin olive oil

1/4 teaspoon of salt

1 lemon, quartered

Preheat oven to 450F. In a medium bowl, whisk together milk and egg whites. Place breadcrumbs on a separate plate. Dip zucchini wedges in egg mixture. Toss gently until coated. Next place zucchini on bread crumbs and toss until coated. You may need to use your fingertips to allow breadcrumbs to adhere. Even if they are not completely coated, you will taste enough crunch once cooked.

Coat a large baking sheet with cooking spray and layer with a piece of parchment paper. Arrange zucchini on tray and drizzle with a little extra-virign olive oil. Bake until golden brown and fork tender, about 12 minutes. Sprinkle with salt and a squeeze of lemon.

These go great with chipotle mayo. I enjoyed these so much that I ended up finishing both zucchini solo! Sorry family, will make again!

 

 

table setting decoded

Just in case you forgot...

{image @ cake with giants}

Entertaining Wardrobe

From backyard bbqs to fancy-schmancy French dinners this 'a-list of essentials' is a great place to start building your entertainment wardrobe.

Keeping your pantry stocked with all white dishes and clear glasses keeps visual order, appeals to all, and they are relatively inexpensive and easily replaceable.

The A List

• 12 place settings of dinner plates, salad plates, bowls
• 12 glass tumblers
• 12 wine glasses
• 12 coffee cups
• 12 place settings of flateware
• 6 large spoons
• 1-2 large platters
• 1 set of nesting mixing bowls
• 6-12 votive holders

You may also want to include

• 1 glass pitcher
• 1 wine decanter
• 2-3 large serving spoons
• 12 steak knives (personally I like the rustic style of these)
• 4 small ramacans
• 6 martini or margarita glasses (I use these for serving nuts and olives)
• 6 - 12 mason jars
• 1 large hurricane vase with large white or ivory candle

White and clear? How boring you say. Don't worry, there are endless ways to rev-up these essentials. Your guests will be blown away by your creative ability to turn such ordinary dishes into extraordinary party wear.