"Souperbowl"

We shared an evening of good food and fun with our neighbors for Superbowl Sunday - with no intention of actually watching the game. We were intent on wrapping things up so that David and I could watch Downton Abbey. The menu included skewers of marinated mozzarella, cherry tomatoes and fresh basil as an appetizer. This was followed by a flavorful minestrone garnished with olive oil, red wine vinegar and fresh parmesan. Grilled bread rounded out the main course.

Ah, but dessert. So simple but magical flavor. Take really good vanilla ice cream and drizzle with the best olive oil and a sprinkle of fleur de sel. I am blessed to have a Tuscan olive oil given to me by my friend Martha Brown. She and her husband Robert vacationed in a little Tuscan village last year and the owner shipped this phenomenal olive oil to her. She was so very generous to share a bottle with me. Then, just to gild the lily, I have French fleur de sel that Mary Alice brought me from her travels in Provence several years ago. I use it with such discretion because it is that special. A few toasted almonds make it perfect. Umami!

Apologies if this all sounds hoity toity but it is just simple food with special ingredients - remembering treasured old friends and celebrating new ones. So, how was your game night?

I Love You All!