by partysugar

My favorite show on Food Network is Ina Garten's Barefoot Contessa. I've made at least one recipe from every episode and all of the best shows are saved on my Tivo. I love her gay best friend/florist Michael and her bubbly, dorky husband Jeffrey. Her relaxed, yet elegant nature and simple, yet delicious menus remind me of my beloved grandma. Her recipes, which at times can be old fashioned, always highlight the pure flavor of the ingredients. Naturally, I have her Barefoot Contessa Parties! book. The title of the book has a little exclamation point that perfectly demonstrates both Ina and my point of view: parties should always be fabulous! The grilled salmon sandwiches, caesar salad with pancetta, and sour cream coffee cake are recipes that I use and make regularly. The coffee cake is wonderful to bring as a hostess gift, make for a depressed friend, or take to a potluck brunch. To look at the recipe from this amazing book, read more