A Romantic Dinner For Two - Inspired by My Restaurant Favorites

There is just something about food that excites our senses and makes us feel good. When you really think of it eating food involves at least 4 out of 5 of our senses (sight, smell, taste and touch), so in that sense (no pun intended) it's a total body experience. Food has the ability to comfort us, and get us in the mood for love.

Since I know that right now, many are looking for ideas and inspiration to craft the perfect romantic dinner, I have picked my favorite restaurant foods (that I have tried so far) and created a menu that I hope will tantalize your taste buds as much as it has my fiance's and mine. Whether it's a special occasion like your anniversary or you just want to surprise your sweetheart, give this menu a try!

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Appetizer

Photo Credit - Olive Garden

Lasagna Fritta - The absolute best appetizer that has ever caressed my taste buds came in the form of a Lasagna Fritta, from Olive Garden. These little morsels are fried Lasagna pieces breaded with Parmesan cheese on top of Alfredo sauce served with marinara sauce and more parmesan cheese on top. Oh words cannot give justice to how good these Frittas are!

Salad

Photo Credit: Flickr user JD

Spinach Salad with apples, almonds and dried cranberries. This fresh crisp salad can be served with your favorite sweet vinaigrette dressing.

Entree

Photo Credit: Flickr user Another Pint Please

Roasted Rack of Lamb with rosemary-mint glaze inspired by Carvers Steaks & Chops Restaurant, Rancho Bernardo, CA. Serve with Roasted Potatoes, Rice Pilaf or Sauteed Asparagus.

Dessert

Photo Credit: Flickr user Rae Vasky

Belgian Chocolate Truffle Cake inspired by Hans and Harrys bakery in Bonita, CA. Layer upon layer of rich, moist chocolate cake with truffle filling. A raspberry sauce would be the "cherry" on top!

Wine

Photo Credit: Flickr user schonwandt

A Shiraz or Syrah wine would pair well with the Lamb and Chocolate Truffle dessert.

What makes a destination "Romantic"?

Paris, France (Photo by flickr user macropoulos)

I've always believed that everything French equaled Romance. I believed it so much that I learned French, thought I would marry a Frenchman and live in France. Of course, I've since outgrown that notion (the Frenchman part), but it made me think about what really makes a destination "Romantic". Is it the location, the people, the food, the language, some magical dust that is sprinkled in the air? I mean, what really makes a place "the" place to go for lovers and those who want to find love?

I consulted the MSN Encarta and their definition of romance is "A spirit or feeling of adventure, excitement, the potential for heroic achievement, and the exotic." It can also mean, "fascination or enthusiasm with something, especially of an uncritical or inexplicable kind", and might I also add to that, the idea of seclusion. Now, we all know that France, Italy and Rome easily conform to these definitions, but what about the other countries and cities of the world? In my travels, there are three that stand out in my mind as good places for kindling and keeping the flame alive.

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Maui, Hawaii

A Hammock just for two (Photo by flickr user muha)

Maui is my favorite of the Hawaiian islands because it's got charm, it's laid back, and yet full of things to do. From the time you arrive at the airport you feel as though you're getting ready to be pampered. The meet and greet with the lei made me feel enchanting, like some kind of princess with a string of fresh cut scented flowers around my neck. The fresh pacific ocean breeze fills your lungs and you realize this is what life is supposed to be!

Maui Beach Sunset (Photo by flickr user janruss)

Whether it's a sunset walk along the beach, a stolen kiss 800 ft above in a tandem para-sail or exploring the beauty of the ocean together on a snorkel trip...Maui is the place to be for romance! The unique Polynesian culture lends an element of exoticism - from the language, to the food, to the dances - that makes you want to immerse yourself and kindle the flame.

Laurentian Mountains, Quebec (Canada)

Laurentian Sunset (Photo by flickr user justin lucarelli)

What I find intriguing and romantic about the Laurentian region is the feeling of seclusion, the adventure, the unspoilt beauty and of course there's that French influence everywhere. At this time of year there's plenty of white, snow capped mountains, fresh crisp air, and frosty, starry nights creating a dreamy ambiance and plenty of excuses to snuggle up next to your loved one by the fireplace.

Spa Massage (Photo by flickr user aggiecarrie)

The Laurentian Mountains are well known in Quebec for their abundance of health spas. One of the key things that kill romance is bad health or a lifestyle that's too hectic. If that sounds like you, I would highly recommend a weekend spa getaway in the Laurentian Mountains and add to that some playful frolic in the snow...sounds like a recipe for romance to me!

Branson, Missouri (USA)

Table Rock Lake at Sunset (Photo by flickr user Graham Dodd)

Yes you read right. I know Branson is a place filled with endless country music shows, and family entertainment but there is a quaintness to this place that I feel lends to romance.

Nestled amongst the picturesque Ozark Mountains, Branson affords lovers the opportunity to feel adventurous, excited, and secluded. Branson Landing for one, is a lovely courtyard type waterfront promenade lined with stores like Victoria's Secret (ooh la la!), and Bath and Body Works, overlooking Lake Taneycomo. As you walk along, clever street lamps play relaxing music.

Branson Landing (Photo by flickr user illuminatingconcepts)

Then there's the fire and water show where fire leaps and water spouts to the rhythm of the music. And not to be missed is a horse drawn carriage ride just for two that takes you out to the lake...my friend and I did that one and it was nice! I must also mention the gourmet dinner cruises on Table Rock Lake and the many nature trails waiting to be explored.

In terms of hotels, there are two Hilton hotels (one right on the Branson Landing), the four diamond rated Chateau On The Lake hotel and spa, and if you prefer more seclusion, there are gorgeous fully loaded cottages tucked away in the hills.

Now that I've shared my hot spots for romance, I'm eager to know what makes a destination romantic for you and which cities around the world top your list!

Pavlova and Great Australian Wine - Let's Celebrate!

January 26th is a day that all Australians come together to celebrate all that's great about being Australian and living in Australia. Of all the things that identify them as a people and destination, like their charming accent, the endless beaches, wildlife, great outback, barbecues, superb snorkeling off the Great Barrier reef and world famous wines, Australia is also known for a scrumptious dessert called, Pavlova.

10 Essential Experiences in Niagara Falls, Canada

Niagara Falls, Canada is definitely a place that you should visit at least once in your lifetime. I've had the opportunity to visit twice in my lifetime (once as a child and second as an adult) and the last visit was surely better than the first, due in large part to the fact that I got to see and experience a lot more of this beautiful city. (Plus there was a whole lot more to do than the first time I went!). Though many suggest that summer is the best time to visit, I highly recommend visiting Niagara Falls in early Autumn (Sept-Oct) if possible, because the fall colors against this majestic waterfall is a true beauty to behold, and hotel prices are usually much cheaper.

Montenegro (Crna Gora) - Must See, Must Do, Must Eat Things and Places!

One of the most exciting events at the Olympics for me, has to be the opening ceremony when each country parades its colors and athletes proudly. I don't know about you but hearing the name of each country just takes my breath away. They all sound so unique (obviously) and packed with history and culture (and scandals) that set each apart from the other. One country that captivates me with its name alone, is Montenegro ... It just sounds so enchanting and luxurious! I just couldn't help but explore this country, to see if it lives up to the sound of its name.

Curried Lamb and Vegetable Chow Mein

(photo flickr user mswine)



As requested by @savorthethyme here is my Recipe for Curried Lamb and Vegetable Chow Mein. It's what's for dinner tonight!

Ingredients
1 lb Lamb Stew Meat
3/4 cup Leeks sliced
3 tbps Bajan Seasoning
3 tbsp Curry Powder
3 tbsp Red wine
1/2 Maggi cube
200 g or half pack of Chow mein noodles
2 cups Broccoli
2 medium potatoes cubed
1 tsp soy sauce
1 tbsp Ketchup
Black Pepper to taste
1/2 tsp Clove
Water for cooking

Method
1. Marinate Lamb with leeks, seasoning, soy sauce, red wine, curry powder, black pepper and clove.
2. Brown meat on stove approx 5 mins on medium-high heat
3. Add water and let simmer on low heat. Keep adding water as it drys out and continue to simmer.
4. When meat is almost tender add potatoes and more water. Wait 5 minutes.
5. Add broccoli and then chow mein noodles. Add maggi cube. Stir.
6. Let cook on medium heat, stirring often until noodles are done.

Serve hot | Serves 3 - 4
Enjoy!

NB. Measurements are approximate. I rarely measure when I'm cooking from my head. Feel free to experiment - add more or less according to your tastes

Recipe Spelled D-I-S-A-S-T-E-R? Not at all!

(photo by flickr user kevincrumbs)



It's funny how recipes are created, invented if you would. When you really sit and think about how did that recipe you have come into being? Was it because you had none of this but some of that? That your taste buds told you a dash of this and a cup of that would produce culinary excellence? Was it perhaps that you were traveling somewhere and something caught your eye and your brain immediately started wondering how it would go with such and such that's been sitting in your cupboard for the longest time? It's just so fascinating.

I think cuisine is just like fashion in the sense that it comes from feeling, creativity, passion. I can't recount how many times I would start to cook a meal and just feel my way through it. Well that's exactly what I did this weekend. While traveling, and visiting friends I decided to cook up something special. Now when you're cooking in someone else's kitchen you quickly realise that you don't have all your "special" ingredients - this could spell D I S A S T E R! Or it could spell the creation of something pleasantly delicious!

Monterey Jack Raisin Cucumber Salad

Ingredients
1 medium sized cucumber peeled and diced
1/2 cup of raisins
1/2 cup of Monterey Jack cheese
1/4 cup chopped celery
Dash Black Pepper
3 tbsp Ranch Dressing
Turkey bacon bits (optional)

Method

Mix all ingredients together in a bowl and serve chilled.



I wanted to make a salad and those were the ingredients at hand! Enjoy...

Fresh Homemade Golden Apple Juice - It's a Bajan Delight!

For those of you who don't know what Barbadians (Bajans) call Golden Apples, it's a fruit known as a June Plum, that can be described as having the flavor of a cross between a young mango and a pineapple. Needless to say it's deliciously tangy!

I don't know if November is Golden Apple month, but lately my uncle has been bringing bags and bags of Golden Apples for us and since we can't eat all, why not make some Golden Apple Juice - a Bajan favorite?!

So here's what I've been making today. Give it a try, you'll love it!

Golden Apple Juice

Ingredients:
Golden Apples/June Plums (not too ripe) (the quantity is up to you - if you're like me, it's too many to count)
Freshly squeezed lime juice to taste (optional)
Brown sugar to taste
Angostura Bitters
Nutmeg
Spice
Water

Method:



1. Wash golden apples and cut into pieces (leave the skin on for better tasting juice).



2. Place golden apple pieces in a blender and add enough water to puree. Blend on high speed until pureed.







3. Strain puree using a strainer and a large spoon. You may need to do this 2 or 3 times.



4. Dilute juice with water and add sugar and lime juice and angostura and spices to taste. Stir and Strain again.



5. Chill and shake before pouring. Enjoy!

Thanksgiving From Afar

It's been a while since I last posted and that's because I've been swamped with work and travelling and working and travelling some more! I've finally found ... no Made some time to write a post and what better thing to post about than Thanksgiving!

In Barbados, we don't celebrate Thanksgiving, but I had the pleasure of experiencing an American Thanksgiving a couple years ago when I was in California. I must say it is a most splendid occasion. For one day people are actually thankful for what they have, unlike other holidays when people are upset about what they didn't get. Maybe that's what makes it such an enjoyable holiday!

This year, I'm thankful for many things - for love of friends and family, for a job (especially in today's economy!), for a home, for health, for peace in my life...for everything I've got and even for the things I don't. One of the highlights for me this year was getting engaged to the love of my life! So even though I won't be in the USA this Thanksgiving, I've still got plenty to be thankful for.

So while many are feasting on Turkey, pie and more pie, I will be reminiscing on my last Thanksgiving and looking forward to the next. I'll be getting ready to celebrate Independence Day in Barbados (Nov 30th)...and I'll also be dreaming about eating these exciting foods that I found on Foodista. May it give you some inspiration this Thanksgiving!

And of course, I've gotta have a good cocktail! I'm a sucker for Pina Colada!

Seychelles - An Unforgettable Dream Vacation

Whenever work was super slow, I'd pass the time by "traveling" to a destination I'd never heard of or been to via the internet. Then I'd day dream and imagine what it would be like to visit that place, and I'd plan a trip there as if I were fortunate enough to actually afford it. Yes I'd look for the most luxurious hotels and just gaze at the photos, imagining myself laying on the soft fluffy bed or sitting on the balcony with my gourmet breakfast while taking in the fresh crisp air blowing across the sparkling water and believe that it was blowing just for me..aahhh! And then I'd look at the restaurant photos and the menus, and pretend to order everything that looked good on the menu as if the chef were my personal chef. Have you ever done this? If you haven't let me tell you it's almost as good as traveling for real. In fact it's better because there are no airport layovers, rude travelers, or bad service and you never ever run out of money!


So that's what I did one painfully slow day I work. I packed my bags and took a trip over to Seychelles. Now where on earth is Seychelles? Seychelles (a multilingual nation with French, English and Creole being the main languages), I found out is actually located in the western Indian Ocean , approximately 1000 miles off the eastern coast of Africa. Yeah it's way out there, that's why I have to dream. What I found fascinating about this destination is that it is made up of 115 islands...yes you read correctly...1-1-5!! Wow that could make for a neverending vacation! And what's even more fascinating is that some of the islands are granitic (said to be the oldest and probably the only mid-oceanic islands of this kind) and some are coralline which presents an exciting combination of flora and fauna. Of the 115 islands though, only about 5 are the main centres of attraction. However, if you happen to be wanting to shed a few million dollars, who knows maybe you could own a little piece of paradise. But if you're like me, (yes I know this is a dream but I'm trying not to be too out of this world) then the main islands of Mahé, Praslin, La Digue, Alphonse and Desroches are where we want to be!

So here I am on Mahé (the largest island), and I can't wait to reach my hotel. Since I'm dreaming I will stay at the Maia Luxury Resort and Spa....this place captivates me. Just visiting their website took my breath away as I listened to the ever so gentle, hypnotic rhythms of the wind dancing with the harp and piano (at least that's what it sounds like). I chose to stay here because it looks like the kind of place you can only dream of - it's small and intimate - and oh so luxurious. I had a Villa all to myself, complete with a personal butler and panoramic views of the ocean...Ahhhh. Talk about a holiday for the soul. This place is nestled amongst the flora as though the two were formed from the earth together. Lush, scented, well manicured gardens entice you, beckoning you to stop and stare....and I do because I've got all day.

My room is everything I dreamed it would be - private, with panoramic views of the diamond kissed waters of the Indian Ocean. There's nothing to interrupt my view, nothing to interrupt my pleasure - no demanding boss, no unruly tourists, no loud music, no kids screaming - just the sound of the waves dancing with the sand and the breeze playing with my hair and running laps about my body...mmmm. I don't want to wake up. Let me stay here forever. I've got my own private verandah, an infinity pool, a private outdoor sunken bath that allows me to gaze at the stars while I enjoy a jasmine scented bath(and I've even got all the technological comforts of home if I want to stay connected). I just don't know how to act! Can you imagine honeymooning in a place like this? I guarantee you'd never forget it!



As if that's not enough to totally relax me. I decide to indulge a little bit more. So I head over to the Spa. Like Queen Latifah in the movie "Last Holiday", I'm about to live it up! Ooh I'm gonna get an Island Pleasure Combo - yes I'm gonna get my skin polished and exfoliated, and then I'm gonna get it massaged ... ahhh so invigorating! I'm glistening from head to toe with skin I thought had left me for good when I turned 3yrs old.

Now I'm just plain hungry! What's good to try? I'm in luck! Their restaurant Tec Tec is the only gourmet restaurant on Mahé. Ooh can't have a dream holiday without a treat for my culinary senses now can I ?! Then I wouldn't be dreaming right. Since I'm on the all-inclusive plan, I can have whatever I want. I can have the Chef prepare something just for moi! (I knew this dream was gonna be good!). I think I'll have my personal butler organize a fabulous meal for me right next to the ocean. Yes that's what I'll do. And it'll come with a perfectly paired bottle of wine - the best there is - money is no concern of mine. I hear the food here can be described as Meditteranean and having the rich textures of French cuisine, the exotic spices of Indian food and the spicy flavors of the Orient. Mmmm ...now my journey is complete.

What's that you say? What about things to do? Well who says I want to do anything on my dream vacation?! (Okay okay we'll do at least one thing) Let's see ... Oh I know, let's visit the local markets and see what treasures await. And then let's island hop! Just get out on the ocean blue and "discover" every bay and atoll - robinson crusoe style. Let's go snorkelling while we're at it, then stop for an unforgettable gourmet lunch at a secluded beach. Yes! I'm loving these things to do.

May you please speak to our technical staff? Excuse me? Who are you, what are you doing in my dream and what are you talking about? Oh yeah! I'm at work... I guess this is where the dream ends...but first chance I get, I'll be right back on Seychelles.

Here's a recipe I found online for a taste of Seychelles:

Seychelles Fish Curry (adapted from BBC.co.uk)

Ingredients

For Masale

2 tbsp coriander seeds

2 tsp cumin seeds

2 tsp black peppercorns

1 tsp cardamom pods

1 tsp cloves

Small piece of cinnamon

1 tsp ground chilli

1 tsp grated nutmeg

For Curry

2lb Snapper

Freshly ground black pepper and salt to taste

2 tbsp Canola oil

2 onions, chopped

½ tsp ground turmeric

2 cloves garlic, chopped

small piece ginger, shredded

3 tbsp tamarind water

2 sprigs thyme

1tsp flat leaved parsley

450ml fish stock or water

Method

To make the masale, take all the whole spices and dry roast them until lightly colored.

Then grind the nutmeg and chili and stir them in.

To make the curry, cut the fish into small pieces, season with salt and pepper, and set aside.

Heat the oil in a heavy pan and fry the onion until golden. Stir in the massalé and turmeric and sautee.

Add the fish, and all the other remaining ingredients. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes until the fish is cooked.

Serve with basmati rice.

Enjoy! While on Seychelles be sure to try out these other dishes: Chatini, Daube, Soupe de tectec, Bourgeois grille, Bouillon brede, Chauve-souris or Fruitbat, and Cari Bernique.