Entertaining - The Beautiful Dragon Fruit

This is a dragon fruit, and it is simply one of the most beautiful fruits around. Surprisingly, it comes from several species of cactus. Also known as the pitaya, it is native to Mexico, Central America, and South America; although, they are also cultivated in a number of Asian countries such as Taiwan, Thailand, and the Phillipines. Depending on the type, they can have either a sour or sweet, yet delicate, flavor. The texture is akin to that of a kiwi, and whichever variety you choose, their beauty and rarety make them a show-stopper. Here's how to serve:

First, cut the fruit in half.

Next scoop out the inside with a spoon (similar to an avacado)

Finally, chop the fruit into bite-sized pieces,

and replace in the halves for serving.

Enjoy!

Entertaining - Placecards

With the holidays approaching, large gatherings of family and friends are upon us. Consider upping the ante on the entertaining game while at the same time simplifying the confusion. First, get yourself a great set of warming pans or serving trays, add a beverage server for that favorite holiday punch, and then use a set of reusable dry-erase place tiles to label your offerings for your guests. (Honestly, who marks place settings with these things? Let friends and family sit where they want and use these markers to eliminate all confusion about what mystery meat your serving.) The ones shown above are ceramic and come with a dry-erase marker, so you can wipe them off with a paper towel at the end of the night and store for the next gala. Good stuff.

The Goods - A Holiday Open House!

If you're local, please stop in!!!!