a colorful evening

August 19, 2013

Tablecloth from Crate and Barrel.

Potted herbs down the table.





A view looking down to the vegetable garden.

Potted impatiens.



Norma found these dinner plates at Marshall's years ago.


Feta and Corn Fritters

Moroccan Chicken and Couscous

Rhubarb Fool

Norma and Geoff have had a busy spring and summer, visiting their 4 married children who are scattered all over the globe, plus hosting friends and family who love to visit California.  Last week Norma said she was really sorry she wasn't able to have a summer party and was hoping to have a small dinner party before summer ended.  I thoughtfully agreed and mentioned I might be a good person to invite, I am accommodating that way :)

So here we are, a Saturday night towards the end of summer, drinks in the garden and dinner on the patio, the weather is California perfect and the company, the table setting and food are all quite perfect too.  Cooking and setting the table are truly where Norma's creative talents are showcased.  I have to tell you that she is fearless while entertaining.  She will try anything...no foreign ingredient, no unusual recipe nor exotic cuisine will intimidate this hostess.    I have acquired some of my favorite recipes from this innovative lady.

MENU

Assorted Cheeses and Crackers
Feta and Corn Fritters with Geoff's Spicy Tomato Chutney
Moroccan Grilled Chicken with Moroccan Style Tomato Sauce (recipe below)
Lemon Chile Couscous
Rhubarb Fool 



2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, finely minced
1 tsp. fine black pepper
1/2 tsp. cayenne
2 tsp cardamon seeds ground
2 inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and grated
2 tsp. each of cumin, coriander and cinnamon
2 14 cans diced tomatoes or equivalent diced fresh
2 tablespoon brown sugar
salt to taste
        Fry up onion, garlic and spices in oil until softened, about 5 minutes.  Add tomatoes and sugar simmer for 15 minutes.  Seaon with salt to taste.   Can be stored in the refrigerator up to one week.


Here are some links to help you recreate the eclectic look of Norma's gorgeous table.



And while I love the plates from Anthropologie, they are kind of pricey,
I think these from Target would give you the same look for less!


But I also like this inexpensive and easy care melamine set from Pottery Barn, below.



Her cloth appears to be no longer available,
 but I love the print on this similar tablecloth from Crate and Barrel


Norma potted herbs in purple pots similar to these pretties from The Market Collection.




She popped nasturtiums in green glass mini vases.  
I found these at Michaels, they come in many colors and I love them!



Get the look of Norma's gold glassware from Pottery Barn on sale!



I have some fun posts coming up.  
In the works are a Christmas craft, 
a baby sweater,
flower bouquets galore,
and a knitting book review.
See you soon!

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2 Comments

  1. Please invite me to your next party!

    ReplyDelete
  2. It was a beautiful party and we were happy to be part of it. Thank you for sharing shopping tips on recreating this theme.

    ReplyDelete

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