Thanksgiving Reminders, Appetizers & More

This year’s Thanksgiving celebration is already looking different from last year’s as people are venturing out and gathering more. As we all get our sea legs back for entertaining and hosting bigger gatherings, I thought you might need some fresh ideas or reminders on how the heck to throw a party. I know if I were hosting this year, which I am not, I would need to retrain my brain on what I should be doing and when.

This post will be a compilation of older posts to help you access info in a pinch. It’s going to be chock full, so snuggle up with warm cup of tea, or a bottle of scotch, and notebook in hand. I also figured that everyone prepares the main meal their own way and has tons of turkey, stuffing, mashed potato recipes already at hand. You don’t need me for those. But maybe you need some ideas in these other areas.

Hosting Tips & Prep Ideas | Table settings | Napkin Folding | Florals | Appetizers | Salads

Start your engines and prep, prep, prep.

While you’re prepping, grab a glass of vino and chill.

Let’s start at the very beginning, a very good place to start.

List Making and Prep

I can’t stress this part enough. Whether you handwrite, type or send voice memos to yourself, the important thing is to make a list, and keep organized. Especially with Thanksgiving because there are so many moving parts. As you can see, sometimes I handwrite, sometimes I type it out nicely in bullet points but I ALWAYS have a list.

Clearly without typing and spellcheck errors are made.

Sure this list may not be for Thanksgiving but it serves the point of always making a list.

The below link was originally written with Christmas in mind, and so some of the references point in that direction. However, it definitely has tips for general holiday hosting, as well as a good refresher for Christmas, which quite frankly is just around the corner. Skim through the post to find what you need, or take the time to digest it in its entirety. It might help get you ready for large consumption on Turkey day. Ha!

Holiday Hosting Tips - Less Stress

Table Settings

Now once you have figured out your menu, guest list and overall game plan it’s time to focus on the table setting. I know I’ve said it before, but it warrants repeating, especially now as we re-welcome our loved ones back into our homes in larger groups. Setting a welcoming table sets the tone. It doesn’t have to be glammed out it just needs some love. Even the slightest of care taken to enhance the table shows your guests how special they are. The below links give a variety of ideas from the casual to the elegant. No excuses, just do it!

Create a mood

Burst of Burnt Orange - A Fall Landscape

The below link is the mother load of table settings and floral ideas for a special fall occasion.

Thanksgiving Table Settings - Casual to Elegant

Florals

I get it, some you might think flowers are a waste. But gosh darn, they do bring a smile when you enter a room. I know for a fact that you don’t have to be creative to make a great floral display. A while back one of my mom’s friends helped me to organize a luncheon for their group. When I asked if she could arrange the flowers she quickly replied, Oh, I am not good with that. Well, all it took was an example for her to follow, her confidence grew and then she used her own creative eye. And just like that she gained a new skill. And so can you. If you go to the store and stare at the flower section and can’t imagine something from nothing then simply take a look at the images and links below for some ideas. I know you can do it!

This might not be a typical Thanksgiving arrangement, but it screams fall. The big cabbage heads are fun and bold while the baby’s breathe fills in the gaps and adds whimsy.

Florals can be big and make a statement or a single flower with a simple burst of beauty. Whatever your style there is an arrangement for you. The first link is one that requires some planning, various size vases and a variety of floral items to pull off. But it’s worth it, and best part, it will last you through the fall season.

Fall Themed Centerpiece

There are floral examples in the Thanksgiving Table setting link above, but below are two more links for inspiration.

Eucalyptus Burst - A Floral Spray

Maybe you don’t want to break the bank on florals. Mums are ubiquitous, affordable and come in a variety of colors.

Mums…the Word

Napkin Folding

What can I say about napkins that won’t sound like I’m a broken record? Ok, hit the replay button. It doesn’t take much to make a napkin look a tad more special than just plopping in down on the table. Sure there are oodles of videos on how to make a turkey or pumpkin out of a napkin. If you have the time and wherewithal, knock yourself out. I’m all for simplicity with a touch of pizazz. The link below demonstrates 5 basic folds then gives a variety of ways to enhance each. Hope this helps convince you that it doesn’t take but a moment more to fold a napkin.

Napkin Folding - 5 Basic Folds - Countless Options

Maybe you don’t need a place setting or napkin folding ideas because you are hosting a less formal, more casual buffet style meal. Here’s an easy way to corral utensils with an item that we all have stuffed in the back of our cabinets. The ever present florist vase.

Florist Vase = Useful Utensil Holder

Appetizers

Now here is a category I can really sink my teeth into. Pun intended. I love being creative with apps. I feel like this is where you can break from tradition and be a bit more adventurous with your offerings. As a matter of fact, one Thanksgiving, JuanCarlos and I decided to turn the holiday on its head, literally. We made the appetizer portion the main attraction serving 12 different offerings ranging from cold to hot which lasted 3 hours. Then the main meal was much simpler, and didn’t even include turkey! Extending the appetizer ‘hour’ allowed our guests to relax, eat leisurely and mingle to their hearts’ content. I think it was our best hosted Thanksgiving ever. So with that in mind, here are some appetizers that might stray from the norm for this holiday. Pick one, pick them all. Go crazy, it’s meant to be appetizing.

Contrast colors and texture to excite the palate.

Amuse Bouche literally means to amuse the mouth. And that’s what your first offerings should do. They should get the palate ready. An announcement to: Start Your Engines. Below is a variety of ideas that do just that.

Amuse Bouche…That’s not English, Right?

Pickled Offerings: I love serving quality store bought pickled items such as mushrooms, garlic, cornichon. These add a tangy punch to get the palate ready for more.

Marinated mushrooms with roasted red peppers

Skewers: This idea might feel more summer time but it doesn’t have to be. You can have warm skewered items or cold. They are easy to pick up and eat. And the best part about some of the below examples is they use store bought items plus can be made ahead, plated and placed out when guests arrive.

Potatoes & Pulpo (octopus) Skewers with alioli dipping sauce. Quality canned octopus skewered with boiled new potatoes.

Romaine Lettuce wraps with tinned Spicy Sardine and Grape Tomato/Cucumber Skewers

Boquerones (fresh anchovies) on Cucumber Ribbons

Grilled Shrimp & Avocado Endive Boats with yogurt cucumber dip

Sautéd Potatoes & Pulpo with parsley dressing on Endive

Oven Roasted Plum Tomatoes with Fresh Ricotta topped with herbs & olive oil.

And then there is the infamous Charcuterie/Cheese Platter. Sometimes putting this together can feel overwhelming. We’ve all seen them and they look amazing. But how do we compose an appetizing platter? Sometimes a simple step by step and visual helps us to create what may seem daunting. Here are some guides from me and a link from another master, That Cheese Plate.

The Art of a Charcuterie & cheese Platter

You can never, and I mean NEVER, go wrong with serving a charcuterie/cheese platter. There is always something for everyone. The beauty of it is that you can arrange it with anything and everything. Make it an appetizer platter, like the one below, filled with a variety of flavors and textures.

Boqueron/olive/cucumber skewers, roasted red peppers, spiced nuts, asparagus baked in puffed pastry, palmiers all mingle nicely among cheese and dry cured meats.

Abundance. Fill the platter and block each item in sections. It makes it look organized and appetizing. You WANT to dive in.

And now for even more appetizer ideas…

Smoked Trout Cucumber Bites

Boquerones = Bow ka row nays

Luscious Butternut Cream Crostini with Roasted Walnuts & Honey

3 Dips a Dippin’

I love this one because it’s a different take on crudité. And the dips are so flavorful that will keep on dipping.

Marinated Feta

This dish is an absolute winner. My customers love it as much as my guests. It is so versatile, creamy and tangy, spicy and delicous.

Fried Polenta Topped with Mushrooms & Goat Cheese
These fried polenta rounds are also a great vehicle for the above marinated feta. I’ve often made that combo and had not a single one left.

5 Appetizers That Impress & Relieve Stress

Maybe you have the task of figuring out what to serve a vegan during a holiday that rarely has offerings that will suffice. Here’s an appetizer that is hearty, earthy and fits the vegan bill.

Vegan Chick Pea Mash

And for our last category, because I’m sure by now your tea has gotten cold or you’ve run out of scotch. Either way, it was a boat load of info. But this last section is much needed and short.

Salads

Ok, let’s admit it. We all make the effort and serve them up on Thanksgiving. But how many of your guests actually eat it? I say offer up a salad that counters all the heaviness of a traditional Turkey dinner. Crunchy, refreshing salads will be a palate and belly cleanser. Try any of these.

Citrus. Salad Bowl

Versatile Crunch Salad

Cucumber Ribbons, Chunks & Cherry Tomatoes

Use a vegetable peeler to create ribbons from an English cucumber. When you get to the middle section after peeling, cut it into chunks. Add halved cherry tomatoes and mix with a herb vinaigrette.

Ok, that’s it for now folks. I hope these helped you and provided some ideas. I wish you all a safe and joyous Thanksgiving. May we each find health through nutritious food and spiritual love. Gobble Gobble.

A Summertime Cocktail Party with Neighbors

Hosting summer parties is such a joy. When the weather is superb, and the food is fine and the company is divine, well then, it’s simply sublime.

Such was the case with this summertime cocktail party with neighbors. Now before you start wondering, this was not a recent event, on the contrary. Usually whenever we host events my intention always is to share the festivities, and of course, the food choices/combos in a prompt, timely manner. Sometimes good intentions aren’t enough, which is why I never had a chance to post this event that took place back in 2019. That’s right, way back 2 years ago. At first, I felt remise not meeting my own self imposed ‘timely reporting duties’. But after some consideration, I am glad now about the delay. I think this post might have gotten lost in the soup given that none of us were entertaining in 2020, and therefore, could have been forgotten or overlooked. As I’ve often said, things happen exactly when they should. And so I believe this post is more timely presented now as we ponder hosting more gatherings during the warmer weather and for the upcoming Memorial Day Weekend.

Let me first start by setting the visuals for you. We live in the most charming little enclave of Hartsdale, NY known as Manor Woods. By its name you can imagine that we are nestled within decades old trees that tower above us 40-50 feet. Our ‘hood also sports 4 dead end courts which means no through traffic, and ultimately super quiet streets. (Minus all the dog barking.)

Our backyard tucked under towering trees.

Our front yard guarded by this majestic Oak Tree.

Looking down from our backyard, more trees.

No way out, but we don’t mind. We love it here.

And if those weren’t reasons enough to live here, the neighbors are something special. A diverse group of considerate, caring, joyous people that truly enjoy one another’s company and look out for each other. Which is why for the past several years we have been swapping hosting get togethers at one another’s homes. As I mentioned, the last one we hosted was during the summer of 2019, and the weather was simply flawless for a Friday night of food, drink, good conversation and laughter. There is something so special about just hanging and savoring the moment, as well as the food. Relaxed and easy going with no agenda but to chill.

Smiles all around.

We had a few more people than our original group which brought the headcount to 18. And it was great to see the camaraderie among all. For this type of event, buffet-cocktail style foods are ideal. Fill up a large table with a good variety of eats and let people pick and mingle as they may. I pulled from some of my favorites and had fun arranging the table from high to low, from hot to cold. For more tips on outdoor hosting, give a gander at 5 Key Steps to Hosting a Garden Party.

Florals don’t have to be fussy, just pretty.

Fill the table, and remember height adds dimension and interest.

Everyone finding their space and favorite drink so we can all catch up.

Back then dipping was encouraged. And no, there wasn’t a line for food.

I do like to ensure that there is variety. If your party is scheduled for 2 hours then it’s true you don’t need as many options. But if it’s going to be longer, having only a couple of offerings simply doesn’t cut it. After a while the palate gets bored, and so do your guests. Plus, with so many people you need to have items that everyone can enjoy. The below menu seemed to hit all the right notes.

Here’s the menu:

Various Cheese & Charcuterie Board with grapes, olives, cucumbers
Fennel with Olive Oil & Course Salt & Cracked Pepper
Baby bell peppers with Chick Pea Mash
Endive Spears with Chick Pea Mash
Endive Spears with Peaches, Goat Cheese & Basil
Smoked Salmon & Cream Cheese on Cucumber Rounds
Spicy Chorizo Pigs in a Blanket
Grill Meats
Watercress, Cucumber & Herbed Butter Tea Sandwiches
3 Dips with Potatoes, Carrots & String Beans
Rice & Quinoa Crunch Salad in Individual Cups
Puff Pastry Tomato Tartlets
Dessert: Homemade Ice cream balls

*Note: Since some of the above items do not have recipe links, please do not hesitate to contact me for simple instructions on how to prepare them. dana@2fishinc.com

Nothing better than Cheese/Charcuterie platters. Always and forever a crowd pleaser.

The freshness and simplicity of fennel dressed with coarse salted, cracked pepper and olive oil. Refreshing and super easy.

Mini bell peppers stuffed with Chick Pea Mash, Smoked Salmon/Cream Cheese/Cucumber Rounds, Watercress/Cucumber Sandwiches.

3 Dips a Dipping. A hearty take on a crudité platter. String beans are blanched, potatoes boiled, carrots are raw all served with 3 different dips that perfectly complement those veggies.

Pretty in Pink. I love playing with color. Rosy Prosciutto, pink Mortadella, red globe grapes and endive spears. What’s not to love here?

Mini spicy chorizo wrapped in puff pastry served with a mix of grain mustard, Dijon and yellow mustard.

Easy to grab and eat Rice & Quinoa Crunch Salad.

Now, I realize that this may seem like a ton of different plates, but for this amount of people for the length of the party (5-11p), the variety and quantity were much needed. Our guests included meat eaters, as well as no pork eaters, plus those who are gluten free. So having options is key to ensure that everyone is satisfied and has enough from which to choose.

Scott & Harry. White wine chilling. (Notice the bug spray between them. Important to have some key essentials available for a backyard party.

Manchego for miles.

All the dishes were well appreciated and loved, even by the kids, which is a great feat if I do say so myself. The best part about these food choices were that most did not require much attending. A couple of dishes were hot/warm but the majority were room temp. Place and walk away!

Mingle, chat, eat.. and text.

I can’t wait for our next get together. I’m really going to have to up my game and come up with a whole new offering. Or maybe since 2 years has passed they won’t mind having some repeat performances. I know I wouldn’t.

Hope you give some of these a try, even if on a smaller scale.

Easter Ideas - A Refresher Course During A Pandemic

Brighter days ahead. This Easter will look a bit cheerier and a ton more hopeful than 2020. A year ago we were just getting used to lock down and coming to the realization that we weren’t going to be able to visit with family and friends for the holiday. Never in our wildest dreams (aka nightmares) did we think it would last this long. 365 days later, while there is a glimmer of hope in being able to gather in small, safe groups, it might not be the case for everyone.

For those who can, you may want a refresher course on how to entertain. This harkens back to last week’s post but dives way deeper. And since like all of you I haven’t hosted any events, I don’t have any new tricks up my sleeve. That’s when you have to reach back to the past and pull the proverbial rabbit out of the hat. No reason to reinvent the wheel, use what’s worked before.

I give you, Reminders of the Past & Other Helpful Easter Ideas. And if gathering with loved ones still is not in the cards for you this holiday, any of these can be pared down to help make the day feel more festive.

Get ready. This post is chock full of images and links. Let’s start at the beginning.

Setting a table

To me, it’s the one act that truly connotes a special event and rings in the feeling that guests are coming. This may be the first time in quite awhile that you have taken out your linens and tossed them across the table. I say, go all out and make everyone feel special this go around. Here are a few ideas for a fresh spring table setting.

Yellow, Yellow Burst of Sunshine Tablesetting

The yellows and white are so cheery, while the midnight blue anchors the place setting in a lovely pop of contrast.

Calming Creams & Bold Blues Table

Same sort of color combo but in a more calming tonality.

We will be eating outside in order to continue being as safe as possible. So I might take some cues from this table setting, Sunday Blues - of the Soothing, Swooning Kind. Plus this link also has a few recipes from which I might just take food cues as well.

I know we are all out of practice, but let’s try not to be lazy about the details. Take the time to finish off your table with napkins. There are various ways to fold a napkin, which doesn’t mean you need to be a magician of deft dexterity or a master of origami. It just takes simple folds, and then possibly adding an embellishment… or not. Check out these super simple ideas to put the finishing touch to your table.

Napkin Folding 5 Basic Folds - Countless Options

Maybe you have decided that you aren’t quite ready for a formal meal. Perhaps brunch or a buffet style setting might be a good option for you.

How To Set a Brunch Buffet Table & Napkin Pockets

Brunch Made Simple

Florals

And what would a proper table setting be without flowers? You can be extravagant and make various arrangements or you can keep it as simple as culling together a single color of tulips for single elegance. Need some visuals? Here you go.

Never Too Many Tulips

One big arrangement

Eucalyptus Burst - A Floral Spray 

Given the dire economic state, funds might be a concern, and that is completely understandable. An inexpensive way to use florals that will make a big impression - Mums. They have different varieties that can be mixed and matched for impact.

Mums the Word

The Menu

Sure you can have all the bells and whistles with your decor but nothing keeps them coming back like the food you serve. When it comes to the holidays people have certain traditions they like to keep, and some are even expected. JuanCarlos and I found this out the hard way during a few Thanksgiving feasts. You know me, I like to mix it up; some traditional, some not. You might have your menu already set, possibly with lamb as the starring role. But if you are still pondering what to make, fear not. Below are links to a variety of alternatives that hop just outside the Easter basket but still sing Spring.

Meat alternatives to lamb:

These are hearty and in the same vein as a lamb dish but slightly off the beaten bunny path.

Osso Buco

A Belly Full of Pork

Appetizers:

Pizza Rustica

A traditional Italian appetizer. Admittedly, this recipe is a labor of love. It is very rich and serves a lot, so I highly recommend only making it if you know you have guests that will enjoy it.

That’s right, it’s not actually a PIZZA, but a cake of sorts. It’s filled with layers upon layers of prosciutto, salami and ricotta cheese.

And some not so traditional

Tarts of Summer

Spring Asparagus Tarts
(Rolling and cutting puff pastry, mix together ricotta & goat cheese, parsley, salt, pepper. Spread over pastry and top with asparagus. Brush with garlic oil, sprinkle with parmesan cheese and bake at 400 until golden.)

Spring asparagus with cheese on puff pastry. This is pretty straightforward, and makes a great appetizer.

Crisp pastry, creamy cheese and the bite of spring asparagus. What’s not to love?

Oven Roasted Tomatoes & Ricotta

Oven roasted tomatoes are like candied jewels and pair perfectly with the salty, creaminess of ricotta cheese.

Salads: bright and crisp

Citrus Salad Bowl

Individually plated salads… a good way to serve during a pandemic.

Pretty in Pink Salad

There is something exotic and striking about the colors and textures of these pink lettuces.

Butter Lettuce with Orange, Blueberries & Crunch

Salad Baby: Little Lettuces Fresh & Crisp

Side Dishes:

Here are two side dishes that may not be typical but truly spring - Spring. And the best part, they can be served warm or room temperature.

Strings… of Bean, Peppers & Asparagus

Tomato, Squash, Peppers & Onion Bake, a one pot vegetable side that can be enjoyed warm or room temp.

I love how the sweetness from the veggies plays off the savory of the cheeses in this baked dish.

I hope you found this trip down memory lane useful. Even more, I hope that in taking from the past we can borrow some joy to light a spark for our future. As for our family, we have been extremely fortunate and so very grateful for our health, safety and beyond. This Easter we are lucky that the stars are aligning for some of my family to be able to come to my house. The weather is expected be nice enough for us to be outside. My parents and a few others have been vaccinated and the rest of us have been quite diligent about staying safe. We will still remain a good distance apart and wear masks when we are not eating. But we will be together, and that is a very good thing. I wish for you the same. May you be able to break bread with your loved ones safely and joyously.

Happy Easter and beyond.

Entertaining - How I Miss It | Make Ahead Appetizers

Our Miami crew. How we love sharing time with them.

This has been a difficult year. And it’s certainly not over. Although statistics are improving, we are still grappling with the pandemic and its multitude of ripple effects on our lives. From the obvious life and death fears to struggling to stay employed to figuring out how to juggle Zoom calls with toddlers, it has been challenging. (Newsflash: I don’t have toddlers but can only imagine.)

There are so many issues relating to how our lives have been affected, but the one that seems to really hit most people at their emotional core is the isolation. The inability to freely move about and spend time with the ones we love. I know this has rocked me at my center. I miss hugging people. For those you know me, to say that I am a touchy, feely person is an understatement. Hey, not in a groping way, in a caring way. ( Alright, maybe I do want to see how big your biceps are.) It’s a known fact that human touch has healing qualities. Which highlights how counterintuitive it is to try to heal people through a pandemic without that essential restorative, mentally medicinal element. Ironic and heartbreaking, really. But I digress, or should I say wandered off the road a bit.

I miss people. I miss my family and friends, (or as we like to call them, framily) and the joy of sharing a meal and good time with them. JuanCarlos has joked about how much free time we now have during the weekends, since in his mind we used to spend every one of them hosting parties. Not true, and an over exaggeration . But true, entertaining is in my DNA. From as early as junior high and high school I can remember wanting to invite my friends over for a meal or to play games and enjoy snacks. I preferred it over going to a stale beer smelling bar, filled with billows of smoke, raucous noise and tons of other people with whom I didn’t care to share my time. What a nerd. That that nerd would grow up to enjoy entertaining as a later career shouldn’t come as such a surprise. But here we are, without the ability to do just that. Yet, as we learned from last post, I still found a way.

In all honesty, I’ve been struggling about which posts to launch since so many of them feature groups sharing food. To post them feels either disingenuous or taunting. I don’t want to be either. But as I rummaged through photos, rather than feeling sad and longing, I instead felt hope and anticipation. So, I’m posting this to put out the positive energy that this kind of gathering can resume soon. With that wish at hand, it seemed appropriate to provide some options for make ahead appetizer ideas for your future event. And so, lifting myself up by my house slippers, I’m sharing a moment when we gathered for a few nibbles with our dear friends in our Miami apartment. These handful of simple appetizers might be the perfect strategy to ease our way back into entertaining after a long reprieve.

Sometimes the best way to enjoy one another’s company is to make the food portion as easy and carefree as possible. Serving appetizers that can be enjoyed cold or room temperature allows the host(s) to remain with the party and not in the kitchen. Pre-made and/or ready to assembly right before guests arrive is the ideal way to have everything finished, and allow the fun and conversation from being interrupted. You know I love putting out a big spread. Whether it be a multi-course meal or tapas style, I’m known for my abundance. But there is a beauty to simplicity.
And that was the focus of this gathering several years back.

Skewers make it easy to grab and go.

And don’t forget the drink. It’s also important to have a partner that does their part in hosting. JuanCarlos is always at the ready serving up beverages. P.S. also one of my favorite shirts. It’s a party wrapped around a party!

Just because these were nibbles didn’t mean that it wasn’t substantial. On the contrary, it was filling and satisfying. Every one of these dishes were made ahead of time.

Cucumbers provide the cool and refreshing, grape tomatoes the sweet and the sardines bring the salt. An all in one bite.

Sardine Lettuce Wrap Skewers

Food that you can pick up and eat are perfect appetizers. Wraps fit that bill, so do skewers And this appetizer combines both.

Using a good quality Spanish sardine and some fresh, crisp veggies made this no cook appetizer fast to prepare and easy to enjoy. Spain is famous for its high quality conservas; fish in tins. One of my favorite brands is Cabo de Peñas. Simply skewer Persian cucumber* rounds, grape tomatoes. Then using romaine lettuce cut into 3” pieces, tuck a piece of the sardine in each creating a taco-like envelope to hold the sardine.

*Persian cucumbers are smaller and have less seeds and better for skewering. If you can’t find those, use English cucumbers and cut them smaller. If you can only find regular cucumbers, then scoop out the seeds, and cut them into small chunks.

Pulpo -Potato Skewers

Pulpo - Potato Skewers
Pulpo, Spanish for octopus, is one of those items that I always buy pre-cooked either in a tin or vacuumed sealed. Trust me, it’s delicious and SO much easier than cooking octopus. The Mediterranean countries are known for serving the most delicious octopus, so you can’t go wrong with any from Italy, Spain or Greece. I have two favorites: again , Cabo de Peñas in a tin and the vacuum sealed package from Don Bocarte*. (Even the famous NY Times writer Florence Fabricant agrees.)

To make, cut small new potatoes in half, boil until tender but not overdone or they will fall apart when trying to skewer them. Season with salt and pepper, then skewer them alternating between potato and octopus. Drizzle with good olive oil. It’s that simple.

*Please note that the Don Bocarte vacuum pack is only available at Despaña Soho store.

Shrimp & Avocado Endive Boats

Grill or sauté shrimp that have been seasoned with salt and pepper. Let cool, then cut them into small pieces. Cut avocado into small cubes, toss with shrimp and then spoon both into endive leaves. Make a quick creamy topping by combining either greek yogurt, sour cream or creme fraiche with finely chopped red onion and cucumber and a squeeze of lemon juice.

Room Temp Bean & Veg Salad

Sauté small cubed red/orange peppers, zucchini and summer squash with red onion in oil, salt and pepper. Make a quick vinaigrette of crushed garlic, lemon zest and juice, dried oregano and olive oil. Mix the sautéed vegetables together with chick peas, cannelini beans, and pour dressing over the entire mixture. Serve at room temperature. (Of course, this can also be served warm, but the point is to not have to be in the kitchen.)

3 Bean Salad with raw veggies. A slightly difference version offering a completely no cook option.

For a completely no cook version: use raw red/yellow peppers, grape tomatoes and cucumbers plus black beans and toss with an herb dressing. Replace the dried oregano with fresh parsley, cilantro and mint.

Bite sized cubes of salmon

Sear them in a cast iron pan.

Grilled Salmon

Cut salmon into 2” squares. Season with salt and pepper and using olive oil, sear in a cast iron pan. That’s all this needs, or maybe a squeeze of lemon right before serving. This can be made ahead, refrigerated and served either cold or room temp. The small cubes makes these much easier to eat and requires no utensils. Pick it and pop it in your mouth.

Is there anything better to please your guests than a platter full of dairy rich bites? I think not.

Cheese Platter
The ubiquitous cheese platter. It never gets old and it’s everyone’s favorite.

You know what to do here. Place a variety of cheeses on a platter and fill up and around with crackers, nuts, fruits and jams. Remember color blocking and keeping each element together to create focus and visual appeal. Too much scattering just creates visual clutter.

And just like that you have a hearty table of nibbles perfect for no kitchen distractions. I miss all my peeps and this post gave me hope and inspiration for the next time, hopefully soon, when we will all meet again, and be able to safely blow out candles on a cake.

Although this may seem like a similar shot, it’s important to include because we can see John’s face and it includes JuanCarlos.

WAY before the pandemic when no one thought twice about blowing onto to the top of a cake!

We miss our friends and we miss Miami. And we are counting the days until we can all do this again, safely and with tons of love and laughter.

To wrap up, here are a few visual reminders of the sunshine, sunsets and the pure glory of our second home, Miami, and a couple of other reasons why we miss it so much.

Our favorite spot on Miami Beach where we place our chairs and towels and hang for hours.

The view as we walk along the miles of Miami Beach boardwalk.

The stunning sunset from our apartment. You can see why we love to sit on our terrace and enjoy a cocktail.

Another one just because it’s so calming.

Thanksgiving Table Settings - Casual to Elegant

Here we are again, right back at the holiday season. Time sure does blow by quickly. But it’s a guarantee that the holidays show up on schedule with all the trimmings, ie: hectic, hustle and bustle with a side order of stress. So since you might be experiencing some of these as you plan your menu, make shopping lists, tidy the house, pull out the turkey platters and hopefully breathe deeply, I thought I might help out in another area; table settings. Thanksgiving is one of those holidays that has very particular food servings. Typically guests want, in fact, they almost demand, the usual suspects. With that in mind, it seemed to me that posting yet another recipe variation on mashed or sweet potatoes wouldn’t be all that helpful. Most people straight up crave those heavy, carb laden dishes aka sleep inducers. So I say, go ahead and make what you know and what they love. Seriously, it’s one less thing to think about, go with tradition.

My goal for this Thanksgiving post is to give you tables-cape options; from the casual to the more elegant. These may be less traditional but festive all the same. And when I say options, brace yourself. I have taken that word to its ultimate meaning, providing a multitude of variations. Another objective for this mind bending table option extravaganza is to use basic items that you might already have, and combine them with inexpensive florals that won’t break the bank. Sure, more heavily Thanksgiving themed tablecloths can be used, but the idea here was to use a neutral palette and add pops of color to create a more subtle holiday vibe. Some of these ideas can easily be used any time during the year by simply swapping out the orange tones for other more seasonal colors. So, let’s just see how you can play with your tableware, since playing with your food is gauche.
(Also, I figure you might like some of the items I used, so I included a few resource links at the end that have similar items.)

First things first, florals. Since the meal can break the bank, I didn’t want the centerpiece to be sacrificed for budget reasons, so all the florals I chose are actually just fillers. That’s right, I only bought fillers which are the least expensive. I picked each one up at Trader Joe’s for $2.99 each. I will show you the various ways you can use these, so you can decide which works best for the way you want to style your table this holiday. In some cases it will only cost you $2.99. Other combinations incorporated several bunches but none of the arrangements I created cost more than $15. Now that is some frugal finagling. Here’s the floral line up.

Various greens

The simplicity of baby’s breathe

Pops of color

Ok, before proceeding hold onto your hats. There is going to be a ton of photos to demonstrate the various options. As I was writing this piece and pulling together all the elements I knew it needed to be orderly, so to make it manageable I broke up the various options into sections. If you already know that you want something more elegant, maybe jump down to that section. If you want to see all the various, grab a cup of coffee and enjoy.

• Casual Table Settings with options

• Centerpiece options

• Simple Elegance Table Setting with options

• True Elegance Table Setting with Options

(Truth be told, it was overwhelming for me to decide what to share and what to leave on the cutting room floor. I tried to limit the amount but still show the variations and then grouped them. I hope I’ve made it easier for you to digest all this. Including a new way of displaying imagery through slideshow boxes. This seemed the perfect way to display it all. (Would certainly love to hear your feedback on this way of showing photos.)

Simple & Casual Table

Let’s say you are having a less formal Thanksgiving dinner, but still want to make it feel special.

Option #1 - No Tablecloth | Autumn Colored Plaid Napkins | Burlap Table Runner
The simple use of white plates and bowls right on the table keeps this setting more casual. Balancing the spoon on the bowl makes it fun and whimsical. Giving a nod to the season, the plaid, autumn colored napkins continues the laid back feel while the burlap runner adds a rustic tone and gives a landing spot for centerpieces and candles. I used dark metal candlesticks to blend with the theme.

Option #2: White Tablecloth | Orange Napkins | Floral Runner
Still casual with the ante upped a tad. Use a white or cream tablecloth and the same white dishes. Swap out the plaid napkins for plain orange ones to give an instant pop of color. No formal runner here, just the eucalyptus leaves as a base for one main centerpiece.

Centerpieces for Casual Table

These two casual settings can take on a different tone simply by the centerpiece choice. Here are a few options.

Option #1 - Florals featuring Orange Tones
Since the table settings are more understated, the centerpiece can make a color statement. A variety of green and orange floral fillers can be arranged differently depending on the vases you have or the look you want to achieve. The larger arrangement was actually the most “expensive” of all the options. It used 5 filler florals each costing $2.99 for a total of $15. Impressive.

If you prefer a more low profile approach, choose smaller individual vases and spread them out in the middle of the table. Note the difference in style simply by switching out the vases but still using the same florals. As well the change of feeling from using the burlap runner vs. the eucalyptus leaves. The addition of pine cones also adds a nod to autumn.

Option #2 - Fruit Centerpiece
Don’t want to fuss with flowers, use seasonal fruit to create a colorful centerpiece. By arranging the fruit on a tray, basket or round platter it makes for easy removal if you need the table space. If you don’t have anything or simply don’t need to move it, you can also just arrange it right on the table. Add pine cones, nuts and votive candles to finish off the look. Choose fruits that would like to serve, then this becomes the dessert platter. Now that is cost savings; Pretty, functional AND edible! Here are a few options for fruit.

Wood Tray Base

My parents brought this back from their Mexican honeymoon 58 years ago. It’s my pride and joy.

Use eucalyptus leaves and stalks to line the bottom.

Gold Charger & Glass Cake Plate
If you don’t have long tray or you don’t have a long table, choose a smaller platter. I chose a gold charger, but you can really use any platter as long as it is sturdy to hold all the fruit. Place the eucalyptus leaves down (trim if necessary) then arrange and pile up the fruit. Add pine cones and grass stalks. You can even add nuts in their shells. For additional height, place the entire platter on a cake plate. Then you can tuck your candles slightly underneath. The lift creates a more dramatic feel.

Directly on the Table
If you don’t have a platter because they are all being used to serve the mountains of food you are preparing, go ahead and create the centerpiece directly on the table, placing candles in and around. Please note that this version means leaving it there the entire time until you are ready to eat the fruit for desset.

Don’t have a long tray. Use a round charger plate.

Want to give it height, place it on a cake plate.

Table of Simple Elegance

Option #1: White Tablecloth | Silver Chargers | White Napkins
Again, using some of the basic elements from the casual setting and adding touches of elegance. Start with the white or cream tablecloth. Still using white plates, but changing out the soup bowl for a salad plate and turning diamond shaped adds the whimsy. Grounding the place setting with a silver charger takes this to a more refined level as does adding a water glass. The silver keeps it bright but still not full on formal, as do the simple white napkins tied with raffia.

In keeping with the white theme, the scattered placement of various vases filled with white baby’s breathe creates a simple elegance of singular focus, with the eucalyptus leaves centering it all.

Option #2: White Tablecloth | Silver Charger | Black Placemats & Napkins
Want a little edge? Add sharp contrast with black placemats and napkins. This version is the same as above with those two small changes. Turning the placemat vertically instead of horizontally lends more of a modern touch. A simple roll of the napkin also plays into the contemporary, sleek feel. The white baby’s breathe with candlelight takes it to a romantic elegant space.

Option #3: White Tablecloth | Silver Charger | Orange Pops of Color
If those white and black options seem to stark and not enough holiday bling, then bring back the orange accents. Toss down the runner and add the orange napkins back in but this time bunch them up and place them on the plate. Continue the festive feel with the orange and green florals, this time arranged in a wider, lower glass vase, and now you have a touch of elegance with a splash of color. And don’t forget candles. Bang!

Option #4: No Charger Plates - No Problem
Using the casual orange napkin place setting, add a bright orange runner to the center of the table and watch how that simple addition ratchets up the elegance factor.

The varying height vintage vases filled with baby’s breathe pop off the bright, high contrast runner. But if are not a fan of baby’s breathe and want something a bit more organic, Go Green. The austere use of only filler greens feels like nature itself and a different kind of breathe: one of fresh air.

True Elegance

Option #1: White & Gold | Orange Runner | Cream Napkin
Bringing in gold adds an elegance all its own. Gold equals regal, so simply adding the gold charger takes the same cream colored tablecloth setting to another level. Since the orange runner makes the color statement, keeping the napkins soft and neutral brings true elegance. The simple roll or tuck into the glass makes the napkin not too fussy. You can also simply wrap the rolled napkin with organza, ribbon or twine. For other napkin option, go back and check my post Napkin Folding - 5 Basic Folds - Countless Options.

Option #2: White & Gold | Orange Runner | Gold Glassware & Napkin Rings
If gold adds elegance, then why not add more gold elements. This version piles on the golden accents with the addition of vintage yellow gold glassware and golden silk napkin rings. Swapping the dark metal candlesticks for vintage glass ones brings in sparkle. (Don’t worry if you don’t have vintage, try outlet type stores for bargains, like Marshall’s.
Depending on how much of a statement you want your centerpiece to make, below are three options. Note: I snuck in hydrangeas which were no cost at all since these were cut from our garden as they turned from white to their lovely autumn hues.

I know, I know this was a ton to process. Believe me when I say I know since I had dozens upon dozens of photos from which to choose to demonstrate the many possibilities of using the same basic elements. Sure each one could have been a single blog post, and maybe easier to digest. But this way you can visually see how small changes can dramatically alter the look and feel of your table. My suggestion is to first decide the style you want, Casual or Elegant. Then go back directly to those options and re-review that section. Or if you are like me and absolutely love all the variety, have at it and keep looking and scrolling and tapping to your hearts content. Nothing would make me happier.

I do hope that I have helped and given you inspiration.
Happy table dressing. May your guests appreciate all the efforts you put forth.

Resources

White Napkins with Orange Trim
Stone Colored Napkins
Plaid Napkins
Charger Plates
Table Runner
Glasses