Yay, My Ice Cream Isn’t Dyed Green!
November 30, 2009
I don’t know if this excites you as much as it does me, but I was absolutely delighted last night when I opened up a carton of Graeter’s Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream and discovered… dun dun dun- it wasn’t green!
This put such a smile on my face. I have only recently discovered Graeter’s, and their ingredient list is very welcoming. Based out of Cincinnati, OH, Graeter’s ice cream uses a French Pot process in making their ice cream since 1870. The flavors I have seen and tasted so far are incredible, from texture and consistency to natural and “real” taste. It reminds me of the ice cream I had in Nice, France which I fell in love with.
Truly a treat!
Graeter’s has just recently arrived to my local grocery store. The first time I saw them it was the Pumpkin Pie flavor that caught my eye. I was weary at first, but I do love pumpkin. After one glance at the ingredient list I knew it would be delicious. And the moment I got home I confirmed it was indeed heavenly. Wow.
It doesn’t last too long in our house, but honestly a few bites are very satisfying. Something about the natural ingredients are so rich that only a few bites is really all you need. I do love to indulge however, and this is my new favorite without question. I’m anxious to try their other flavors!
If you come across Graeter’s in a shop near you, I would highly recommend giving one a taste at home for your next indulgence. I’m so happy to have it available here now. Nom! And let me know when you do- I’d love to hear about the other flavors and your experiences! Speak with you soon, loves 
A Love Of Cocktails And Another Night At Anvil
May 31, 2009
Mmmm, I do love my cocktails- and the other night we had a real treat with some classic and beautiful cocktails at Anvil. These are beauties I look forward to having again soon.
With a place like this, I like to let the bartender select my drinks for me. This is their skill and I want them to have fun with it- I am the same way with my chef’s and their food. I am here to enjoy their talent with good tastes. Sebastian, our bartender we seek out by request, made some fantastic selections for me!
For instance, the Jack Rose- a classic cocktail of the 1920′s and 1930′s. What a lovely cocktail! Made with Applejack, Grenadine and Lemon juice, this may be a favorite of mine. It is so lovely with the right balance of flavor and texture. Enjoying it out of a vintage glass only adds more of the charm.
Another lovely drink from that same era would be The Last Word- love the name and the cocktail (pictured below). What a delicious beverage with a nice little hint of spice in the finish. I love the tartness of citrus, especially when it has the right balance, and a little spice can blend beautifully.
The Last Word consists of Gin, Lime Juice, Green Chartreuse, and Maraschino Liqueur- nom! Very refreshing, crisp, and delicious. A lovely way to begin an evening- the flavors just blend and melt so beautifully in your mouth.
This is one I could see myself having quite reguarly, it is perfect for any mood or event. I keep thinking about it, delicious!
Here we have the Smitten cocktail, which I had mentioned previously but had forgotten to take a photo of. I was prepared this time and captured this refreshing drink. I think this one would be so perfect by the pool on a warm day- the mint in this cocktail is delightful without being overpowering at all.
This cocktail consists of Gin, Campari, Lemon, and Mint. And it tastes as pretty as it looks.
And the final act was a beautiful one that tastes just as heavenly and dreamy as it looks- The Vanishing Act! Wow, this one is so lovely and rich in texture- yet light and welcoming, what a fantastic way to finish the evening.
Now, unfortunately with this one- I was not by it when it was made and don’t know of what it all consists of. The egg whites and bitters is all I can tell you- but I do plan on having this gem again next time I visit and returning home with the ingredients. So lovely!
All this writing has me ready for a cocktail, nom- speak with you soon, loves!
Delicate & Delicious Cucumber Mint Tea Sandwiches
June 17, 2008
One of my personal favorites at the tea table has always been the refreshing and delightful cucumber mint tea sandwich. A girlfriend of mine and I used to escape once every two weeks or so to this glamorous restaurant for afternoon tea. The decor was beautiful and we usually had the place nearly to ourselves. They would present a three tiered tower with scones and cookies, miniature pastries, and a small variety of tea sandwiches. It was a simple and luxurious treat.
The beautiful thing is it can be done at home either as a snack on your own or as a delight to be shared with friends. Its quite simple and you can make them as glamorous and distinctive as you like.
The recipe is quite simple-cream cheese, chopped fresh mint leaves, chopped or sliced cucumbers, and bread cut to your liking. I like to butter one side of the bread as well and season the cucumbers with just a tiny bit of salt for that extra bite.
Cutting the crust and then cutting the sandwich into halves or quarters is most common- but do not limit yourself. If you have some cute cookie cutters use them for fun and delightful results. When entertaining it looks like your a pro with all the finesse- and it takes no time or effort on your part at all.
Children may like them as well- add your own variation to their liking of course, but the shapes make them look like cookies more than food.
Use dill or tarragon to change it up or create your own unique little sandwich. Make a fun name for your friends if you like, “Cucumber me for Tea” or something playful.
Or just maybe pour yourself a nice cup of tea, sit outside or by a window, relax and have a few bites to yourself.
