A
couple of days ago I had to step back, take a moment to collect myself and ask –
where has the year gone?! Seems like just a few months ago we were taking down
the mistletoe and Christmas tree, packing it away for the year to come. I know
for me it is too easy to get caught up in the daily routine and to forget to
slow down and appreciate the days that are going by. Nonetheless, this is the
day I wait for, Christmas day; I love everything about it. Everyone
comes together creating a spirit that is nothing less than infectious. You realize
the little things that drove you to your end really may not be such a nuisance.
It is this day that we are reminded just how blessed we are. While we may not
have everything we would like, there are so many people out there wishing to
have half of what we are blessed with; the things we often take for granted.
Today marks a spiritual and mental rebirth, a reawakening of the true meaning
of being fortunate. I think everyone should take that step back and look at
what they have. Figure out what is dear to them, and never take it for granted.
My mother always says “If you and everyone else put their problems on the
table, and you compared yours to everyone else’s, you would pick yours up and
walk away.” Tis’ the season to be
thankful, what are you thankful for?
Our
meal was different than any other Christmas dinner we have prepared. I ventured
out and cooked my first leg of Lamb. It slowly roasted for 7 hours. The meat
was falling off of the bone it was so juicy and tender. The flavors were
subtle, and when paired with the mint salsa they were taken to a whole
different level. Another first was making the Napoleans; these looked so pretty
and I couldn’t resist (despite the fact that they were made with beets). If it
were not for my dad, I would not have made them. Prior to today, we only had
one beet eater in the house. Beets have always had a “barnyardy” taste about
them that was off putting. The goat cheese and vinaigrette neutralizes that
overpowering flavor, and I have to say that I am now starting to see the beauty
of the unpretentious beet. The Lima Bean Mash surprised me. I was thinking it
would be basic with not a lot of character, but I was very wrong. Robust garlic
flavor with a hint of the buttery beans, this dip was the perfect appetizer. Humble
Pita chips were the perfect vehicle for
serving the dip.
Tomorrow
I will be posting the recipes for the dishes I prepared today.
Hope
Everyone had a wonderful Christmas Holiday filled with love and joy.
·
Lima Bean Mash with Lemon and Olive Oil
·
Beet and Goat Cheese Napoleans
·
Seven-Hour Leg of Lamb with Mint Salsa Verde
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| Lima Bean Mash with Lemon and Olive Oil |
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| Ratatouille |
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| Seven-Hour Leg of Lamb with Mint Salsa |
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| Beet Napoleans |
