Let’s Have a Pique-nique

Bonjour, amis!

If you know me even a smidge then you know I love French culture. One thing the french excel at is a picnic…or in french a pique-nique. They better, they invented it. So where did it come from? It originated in the 17th century as a social gathering where each one invited would bring something to share. It started with the upper class but, eventually all were invited to be involved. But today, in France a pique-nique is still a popular thing to do.

So let’s throw one together. The main thing is to keep it simple but beautiful. Another thing the french do well. I can honestly say that so much of this was already in my fridge but it’s always good to prepare.

Let’s build a perfect french picnic.

• Crudités (veggies)-

  I used mini cucumber and cherry tomatoes (I know, I know that’s a fruit)..I also drizzled balsamic glaze to punch them up a notch. Typically, I always have these two things in my fridge. A frequent meal of mine is a tuna steak and these two things are the base.

• Fruit-

  Blueberries and strawberries (two things I always have on hand because my kids eat them constantly)

• BREAD!

  Any french picnic worth its salt needs some delicious bread. I used baguette which I also made my sandwich with. Also, I added water crackers for another vehicle option.

• Meat-

  I went with salami and capocollo

• Cheese-

  One thing I did seek out? These adorable baby Brie wheels. Omg you guys. They’re so cute. Also just enough. No one wants to buy a huge wheel if you’re not going to use it all.

• Fruit spread

  Apricot and red raspberry are what I chose.

• A sandwich (duh.)

  I went with a very traditional french sandwich. Simple. Raspberry spread, prosciutto, and Brie. That’s it.

• Bubbles!

  Or whatever you like to drink but I feel like some champagne or fizzy rosé is the ticket in this situation.

  The best part about having yourself a french picnic is it doesn’t have to be hard. You can use half of what I did. Or double it. And nothing has to be the same as what I used. It’s just a good blueprint.

“Give me books, French wine, fruit, fine weather and a little music played out of doors by somebody I do not know.” – John Keats

Fancy Made Easy

Happy Wednesday, All!

I am 1000% obsessed with salmon. I could eat it for every meal. So, I’m always looking for new ways to eat it. By now you probably know how much I love a tart. Another thing that I could eat always. This recipe, that very honestly looks impressive, is so easy to put together.

First, egg wash a thawed pastry puff, poke it, and add everything beagle seasoning to the edges (one of my favorite parts of this dish). Bake on 425 degrees for about 20 minutes but watch it so that it doesn’t get too done.

Next, after it’s done baking, add cream cheese and your salmon. You can use regular salmon like I did or smoked salmon.

Now, add mini cucumbers (I love these in my soul), pickled red onion, a squeeze of lemon and some for garnish, capers, and a sprinkle of dill.

This dish made me so deeply happy, and it was absolutely delicious. It’s perfect for brunch and bubbles. Two of my favorite things!

Have the best day and thank you for stopping by!

Seafood Summer Loading…

Heeeeeey, Friends!

Okay, I know I say we’ve been busy a lot but…holy…crap. We’ve been busy. Not only have I not had time to blog I’ve hardly had time to breathe! Now, I’m not complaining about good things but geesh. I’m tired. However, when I came across this recipe, I knew I had to recreate it. I got this recipe from “La Chef’s Wife” and I’m in love with this dish.

La Salade Tropezienne - a fancy Shrimp, Peach and Goat Cheese salad with a Rosé Vinaigrette

Cook your shrimp. I sauteed mine in a butter garlic and make a circle.

Sprinkle goat cheese. How much? I say measure with your heart.

Thinly slice a mini cucumber and then toss on some thyme.

Grill two peaches for five minutes on 425 degrees and then add to salad.

Let’s make the dressing! Just throw all of these in a bowl and mix and top your salad!

I’m in love with this salad because it’s so fresh and pretty too! I think it’s pretty clear I’m missing the South of France so this dish transports you right there because it’s exactly something that would be on a menu in a seaside town like Marseille.

Thank you for stopping by today. I hope you eat something fabulous!