Ordinarily whatever happens to be on the dining room table inspires a dinner, but this time around the reverse was true. I really wanted to make lobster risotto for our gourmet group which made me think an Italian theme would be a nice accompaniment. After looking around to see what would work to make that happen, these old olive oil cans and an antique corkscrew from a Florence flea market got the table started.
From there creating a look with an Italian flair got pretty easy. Of course, I couldn’t resist adding a few bottles of flowers from the garden. All were on a beautiful handwoven textile made with threads as fine as a strand of hair.
There was no question about what dishes to use. The colors in the centerpiece made these harlequin patterned ones the perfect choice. These are among my oldest, and I never tire of using them as they lend themselves to such a variety of accessories. Here the plate is on a copper toned charger which added a touch of texture.
Also from Italy, Cortona I believe, are my favorite napkin rings cast to depict a variety of herbs.
Because I’m not a real rule follower, I like mixing and matching. This time I chose to do that with flatware.
My rule for setting a table is to keep it as simple as possible for the comfort of guests so I avoid using more pieces than are required for the meal. Here only a bowl for the risotto and a salad plate were necessary.
Keeping it simple doesn’t mean sacrificing warmth or interest which together welcome guests to your table.
A word about the lobster risotto or any risotto for that matter. Many people steer away from risotto thinking it has to be made just before serving. Not so! You can make it ahead of time saving enough liquid to add at the last minute. Then all you have to do is heat until all the liquid is gone, dish it up and serve. That takes all the stress away.
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This looks lovely and intimate. Lobster risotto?? Yum!
There are never any leftovers!
Love your creativity!
Very special and quite original table setting – as usual, Linda! Where’s the book? You need to write one and get it out there, my friend.
I love it!!!! You turned those olive oil cans into a wonderfully creative centerpiece!!! I am sure you wowed your guests with the table and the food! I can personally attest that you are great with making people feel special with your table and food!!
You are too kind!😘
Love those napkin rings! Great ideas for your table setting…
You know, Ellen, I wish I’d bought another set. Not only do I love using them, I love the handiwork that went into them.
Cool comment about saving some liquid for heating just prior to serving. Thanks! Cherry Kay
One learns by doing for sure.
So unique!! Love it
Thanks, Tina. Would you believe I found 2 more empty olive oil cans in the back of the pantry today? I must have been thinking about something when I saved them.
I’m a fan of breaking the tablescaping rules also, it often makes tables more fun. You did a beautiful job with the theme and I’d love to find some of those olive oil cans. Beautiful work!
Thanks Sandra, it’s fun to make something out of nothing.
I love what you did here. The cans are wonderful! And, the antique cork screw and vases of flowers are perfect additions. What a fine Italian table you set!
You are so talented!! I love seeing how you put different textures and colors together!! Hope y’all are having a great summer!
You know I love doing tables no matter where I am!
the olive oil cans are works of art themselves, stunning centerpiece for your gourmet group!
Jenna
I would love to be in your gourmet group! Your tables are always so creative and you have so many lovely linens, dishes and interesting accessories they are always inspiring. I enjoy your artistic flair!
Wish I could have gone to Cortona! Love those napkin rings.
I am admiring your oyster plates on your wall grouping, too!
Have a great weekend.
Oh Bonnie, you are so kind and I do appreciate your comments and support.
Nicely done! I’ve never made risotto. Sounds so good!
You should try it. It’s a wonderful side to any number of meals. Last night I made mushroom risotto as a base for cartelized scallops.
What a perfect setting for an Italian meal! I love your creativity in what you choose for your tables! Risotto is a favorite dish at our house. With the addition of lobster, I know it was heavenly!
No kidding, lobster risotto is appreciated by everyone who has tried it.