When we are in Maine, our table is often set for 4, 6 or 8 people, but here in Houston folks don’t gather as much for dinner, so it’s more likely the hubby and I will eat together most week nights. Many of those meals will find us sitting at the bar, but that doesn’t exclude making some effort when it comes to presentation.
Remember those pumpkins and gourds I got at Beth’s some weeks ago? Well, they came with me to Houston, and some are on the bar. While not what I’d call a dazzling centerpiece, they do add a little pizzazz and hint at what colors might be used as a complement.
As for the setting, it’s not anything fancy, usually a placemat and cloth napkin folded or secured with a napkin ring, a dish or two, a glass and flatware.
Not having seen such as these carved wooden animal rings from a long ago trip to Kenya for some time, using them is like rediscovering old friends.
Not every night at home is a gourmet meal. Tonight it’s tomato basil soup and a green salad served on dishes with contrasting texture.
The reason we didn’t need much for dinner is because we had a little something extra at tini time. It was an easy to fix appetizer that is oh so good, and I’m thinking you just might want to try it. There are only 3 ingredients: blue, roquefort or gorgonzola cheese; spinach and mushrooms. Here’s how it’s prepared:
Generously cover the bottom of a baking dish with cheese.* Add a handful of spinach torn into small pieces and sliced mushrooms on top. Bake at 375 until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve with baguette slices.
That’s all there is to it, and I promise you it will get rave reviews.
*I use a small cast iron skillet which makes enough for 4 people. If you are preparing for a larger group, use multiple skillets or a larger baking dish. In the latter case, you will have to adjust the amounts.
i so appreciate your visit and the comments you leave behind
Joining
Lulu's Musings 
Love this idea.Any suggestions for different cheeses?
Everything looks soooo good….a must try!….
The appetizer is a really good one.
Thanks for pointing this recipe out to me Linda, it sounds perfect!! Pinning to my Coastal Thanksgiving board!
Jenna
What a delicious post! Love the food, the tips on making it, and the beautiful setting.
Thanks so much for your visit and your kind comment.
I love your napkin rings! They are very special. I can’t wait to try your appetizer recipe. Thanks for sharing!
Yum! I look forward to trying this. I love simple tables for two. Yours is just right. Pumpkins always make me happy.
Your animal napkin rings are awesome! The appetizer looks so yummy, and I’m so with you on the table for two. Ho-hum, such is life…
Oh now! This I need to try. Simple and delicious is at the top of my must try lists!
Then you should be good with this!
That’s my kind of food, easy preparation! Thanks for the directions and ingredients…Christine
As always, beautiful and delicious. I too will try the appetizer!
It might be good medicine for Rich.😉
…love the Tini time!!!! I am going to try that appetizer—-looks deeeelicious and oh soo easy !!!
It could not be easier. Just my style!
Yum, that appetizer will make an appearance at this house very soon!
Linda, my husband and I often eat at our kitchen island and we enjoy a casual setting for the two of us! Yours looks just perfect for us! The appetizer is a must try for me!
You won’t be sorry. Something so good shouldn’t be so easy!