December 30, 1999
The scene A simple, sensational
gathering of favorite people, fun, food and festivity!
The idea To create a rich mixture of elegance, style, creativity and good taste-in a short amount of time.
The guest list Family, friends, associates and others on your "favorite people" list.
Follow these three simple, virtually effortless
suggestions to help you bring it all together with ease:
1. The setting Keep your preparations simple. Centerpieces don't have to be elaborate or expensive. Start with a bouquet of fresh-cut flowers or fragrant herbs. Add an assortment of votive candles to light up the table. There's nothing like a flickering flame to create a warm, relaxed atmosphere.
2. The menu Nothing stirs the senses like a fine cut of steak, and this gathering of favorite people deserves the best. Savor the taste of midwestern beef, such as this filet mignon from Omaha Steaks. This cut is a lean, delicate steak celebrated for its tenderness and mild flavor. It only takes minutes to prepare, and it will make your dinner an exceptional treat. Be sure to provide sharp table knives so guests can easily cut the meat into bite-sized pieces.
And what would steak be without potatoes-the ultimate "comfort food" that is chock-full of valuable vitamins and nutrients. The versatility of potatoes is endless-you can bake them, broil them, hash them or mash them. Surprise your guests by giving them several creative choices, such as Oven-Roasted Colorado Potato Salad and fluffy Gorgonzola Mashed Colorado Potatoes.
3. The memories When guests ask, "what can I do to help?" Cutco Cutlery suggests making them feel comfortable and welcome right away by giving them a sharp knife and letting them put the finishing touches on garnishes or creating an hors d'oeuvre tray. When it's time to serve the meal, provide comfortable flatware and sharp table knives that make it easy for everyone to enjoy the delicious fare-and an instant camera to capture the impromptu fun!
With a little planning and imagination, you're on your way to an entertaining evening that's fun, relaxing and memorable for your guests-and you.
Omaha Steaks'
Beef Cooking Guide
A fantastic way to monitor the preparation of YOUR perfect steak is to use a thermometer. It's easy and ensures delicious, safe cooking.
Internal Temperature:
Rare 120-130 degrees F
Medium Rare 130-140 degrees F
Medium 140-150 degrees F
Well 160-170 degrees F
For a FREE holiday gift guide and catalog, call Omaha Steaks at 1-800-228-9055 and mention RZ 9447. Additionally, a FREE Good Life Guide and Cookbook comes with every Omaha Steaks' purchase. It contains exclusive great-tasting recipes, storing instructions, valuable coupons and a fantastic steak cooking chart.
Mushroom Garnish
Use a Paring Knife to peel the skin from a mushroom, then lay the tip of the Paring Knife flat on top of the mushroom cap. Press lightly to make five small indentations in a circular pattern to create a star design. Continue to make indentations around the edges to create a decorative design. Sauté lightly and use as a festive garnish on an hors d'oeuvre tray, an entrée, vegetables or simply to dress up a plate.
For carving tips and information on what knife to use for what job in the kitchen, call Cutco at 1-800-828-0448 for a FREE 24-page "How to Choose & Use Cutlery Guide." Ask for department 303. Or, write to Cutco Cutlery, Department 303, 1116 East State Street, Olean, New York 14760. www.cutco.com
Bearnaise Sauce*
To prepare the bearnaise, combine the vinegar, wine, shallots, 2 teaspoons of the tarragon and peppercorns in a small saucepan and bring to a boil. Lower the heat to simmer and reduce the liquid by half. Let cool until lukewarm. Transfer to the top of a double boiler set over briskly simmering water, and add the egg yolks and lemon juice, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens to the consistency of heavy cream. Add the butter and whisk until the sauce thickens again. Season with salt and pepper and strain the sauce into a clean saucepan; thin with a little water if necessary. Keep warm, and just before serving, stir in the remaining tarragon and the chervil.
*Beef For All Seasons, HarperCollins, Authored by Frederick J. Simon, (owner of Omaha Steaks), and John Harrisson.
Gorgonzola Mashed Colorado Potatoes
Cover with cold water in large pan. Bring water to a boil, reduce heat to an easy boil. Cook until potatoes are fork tender, about 20 minutes. While the potatoes are cooking, combine the Gorgonzola cheese with the butter and place in a warm spot near the stove. When the potatoes are tender, remove from heat and drain well. Allow the potatoes to steam for a few minutes allowing the excess moisture to evaporate. Place the potatoes in a large mixing bowl and mash either by hand or an electric mixer. Add the cheese and butter mixture and blend thoroughly. Beat in half-and-half in driblets until fluffy. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Place the potatoes in a serving dish.
Makes about 5 cups
Oven-Roasted Colorado Potato Salad
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Wash, peel and cut the potatoes into 1/2-inch cubes, toss with the tablespoon of olive oil and place in a shallow dish or cake pan. Place the potatoes in the preheated oven and roast until tender, about 40 minutes, turning occasionally. While the potatoes are roasting, combine the balance of ingredients, except for Parmesan cheese, in a small mixing bowl and mix thoroughly. When the potatoes are tender, remove from the oven and transfer to an appropriate size serving dish. Allow to cool to lukewarm. Once the potatoes have cooled, toss with the dressing, garnish with the Parmesan cheese and serve immediately.
Make 5 cups
For more delicious Colorado Potato recipes, write for the FREE 16 page "Recipe Favorites from the Colorado Potato Kitchens."
COLORADO POTATO RECIPES
80 Piedra Road, Suite 206, Pagosa Springs, Colorado 81147
Return
to Frontpage