Use the casual elegance of the French countryside as the inspiration for a Bastille Day lunch. Set up a pretty table in the patio. Use cloth napkins with a Provencal print. White plates and bowls ensure that the food is the focal point. Place rounded old-fashioned glasses on a side table. Line white wine glasses on the other side of the cocktails. Serve the goat cheese appetizer in a glass Read more

Nothing gets the conversation rolling at a party like flowing drinks. For a Bastille Day lunch, serve a refreshingly light apéritif-based cocktail, such as the Lillet-basil concoction seen here. Lillet is a French alcoholic drink made from a blend of wine, brandy, fruits, and herbs. Traditionally it's served over ice, but this recipe makes it more festive by combining it with fresh orange Read more

When one thinks of a French dessert many things come to mind: creme brulee, chocolate eclairs, profiteroles with chocolate sauce, or apple tart tatin. While these are delicious options, for my Bastille Day lunch, I want to serve a light, summery, fruit-based treat like a clafouti. Traditionally clafouti — a custard-like French baked dessert —  features ripe cherries, but I plan on giving Read more

Last week I was all about America's Independence Day, and this week I'm celebrating France's freedom. Bastille Day is July 14 and to commemorate the occasion, why not host an intimate weekend lunch? Like a chic Parisian, select a menu that's stylish yet casual, and wonderfully delicious. Start with a big jar of marinated goat cheese, olives, artichokes, tomatoes, and toasted baguette slices. A Read more