Tomato, Spinach, and Sausage Risotto

Mushroom Risotto

Yeah, I like risotto...and when you have 5 different kind of mushrooms, it's amazing even if it doesn't make for great photos. Just take my word and the empty 20qt pot as proof. It was a LOT of risotto.

pommes de terre au gratin

Ever since I started the lesson on food items in my French studies, my menus have revolved mainly around things I can say. Now that I think about it, I wonder if it's because this gives me the opportunity to proclaim what's for dinner in my mediocre French and to feel proud about it? Sad, I know.

Also known as gratin dauphinois (named after a specific region in France where this dish is popular), this potato dish is in essence a delicious mixture of cream and good cheese layered in between sliced potatoes. I mixed this recipe with that of the traditional recipe for "La tartiflette" which adds in pancetta, onions, and requires a very specific Reblochon Cheese. Since Boston doesn't seem to carry that type of cheese, I had to settle for beaufort and brie along with my non-French, Idaho potatoes. The cheese is just set on top and the key is to bake it until the cheese melts down and through, bubbles, and finally forms a crust on top. The photos don't do it justice but everything just melts in your mouth. The meal is so hearty that it is normally served with just bread, a light salad, and topped with good dry wine.

Oh, and where did I get this recipe?

From a French lesson on "Le supermarche" (the supermarket)

Faces

Girls' Night

My amazing friends threw me an amazing birthday party.

The theme was "Sex in the City" and everything was full of sass and class.

Before the guests arrived, all the girls met for a pow-wow and enjoyed a "Decorate your own martini glass" session with the help of glitter, feathers, and crystals. The end results were pretty fashionable and every glass had an unique flair. Tres chic, no?

Following the theme, there was an amazing cake with a mini martini glass and champagne made by Teresa.

great decor (heels everywhere)

wonderful delicious food

drink fountains

and even glow sticks!

I felt so spoiled.

Thank you to all of my friends (especially Cammi) for spoiling me and for making me feel so special.

I had a great time and memorable time!!!