Appetizers to start- I am a sucker for Shrimp Lejon accompanied by a horseradish sauce and mixed greens. But I have also had some other killer appetizers over the years, Beef Wellington, Arrancini, Scallops wrapped in bacon, Oysters on a Half Shell, Clams Casino. Salads with mixed greens or arugula, featuring shaved mango, pears, strawberries, apples, candied pecans or walnuts, and Craisins in a lemon or raspberry vinaigrette. Don’t forget the olives, as they will complement my wine of choice quite nicely.
As a foodie who enjoys cooking, I am eager to learn how to prepare specialty meat dishes featuring chicken, veal, and pasta. However, any cook will tell you that the key element in these recipes is the sauce or gravy!
In the seafood department, I would be eager to learn how to make a rich cioppino, as well as dishes featuring clams or mussels in a delightful seafood broth. I am also interested in preparing specialty high-end seafood dishes with lobster, crab, turbot, halibut, orange roughie, or Chilean sea bass. Ultimately, it’s all about creating a great broth or sauce and having the right Crusty Bread or Crackers to complement the dish.
Aah, desserts! Where do we begin? I’ll leave it to your imagination to ponder your favorites, as there are simply too many to mention. From ice creams, sorbets, and gelatos—especially in Italy—to an array of cookie selections and delightful pastries, the options are endless. Think of treats like crème puffs, donuts, éclairs, cakes, pies, and one of our newfound favorites, a French crème-filled delectable known as a Doussant. (Picture a French crème-filled Croissant with powdered sugar.) And that’s just the start! I haven’t even mentioned classic desserts like tiramisu, cheesecakes, tarts, and various berry and chocolate confections. You’d almost need to go to an elite pastry school in France to truly appreciate and embody these delightful treats!
After Dinner – selections vary and depend on one’s preferences or individual taste of Coffees, Teas, aperitifs, wines, and after-dinner cordials and the like.


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