The View From Mrs. Sundberg's Window

A party isn't necessarily festive or wild

July 22, 2010

Listened to the show Saturday and it was not bad. I was on my way to a gathering — not quite a party, but more than a dinner or a get-together. It's hard to distinguish what makes an event a party, but I think it has something to do with the food, what you serve it on, and the mood of the people. Thing is, a party isn't necessarily festive or wild. I think it has to do with celebration of someone or something, and that is that. The purpose of a gathering is the gathering itself; same with a get-together. And with a dinner the food is often the focus.

What I attended Friday night was definitely a party. It was a celebration of a work season having ended, and of summer, and it was one of the more lovely evenings I've spent in a long while. It started later, and I spent a good hour by myself, wandering about the library and kitchen and patio of the host's well-kept home. I'm not, by nature, a gregarious person. I do love to be invited, but I'd much rather spend time on the fringe, taking it all in.

Anyway, the great thing about parties is the range of choices they offer. You can lose yourself in the crowd, or take center stage. You can assume another identity or be blatant about who you are. You can dance, or disappear. And there's food all the while. Good food. Steamed asparagus, peppered shrimp, fresh strawberries, and rich chocolate flavored with almond in tiny triangles sprinkled with powdered sugar. For your enjoyment. And would you like a bit more wine?

Blueberry Almond Cornmeal Muffins

Blueberries are everywhere about now, and this recipe is perfect for a summer picnic. Enjoy with grilled chicken and salad.

1 1/4 cup flour

1/2 cup cornmeal
1/2 cup white sugar
2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp lemon extract or lemon zest
1/4 cup chopped almonds

Mix above ingredients in large bowl blending completely. In separate medium bowl, completely mix together:

2 eggs
1 cup yogurt
1/4 cup canola oil

Combine the liquid ingredients into the dry ingredients in the large bowl.

Stir together until completely blended. Gently fold in 1 cup blueberries

Spray 12 muffin cups with non-stick cooking spray. Fill cups with the batter and bake in a pre-heated 400 degree oven for 18 to 20 minutes or until the tops are golden brown. Cool 5 minutes and remove from muffin cups. Serve with butter and honey.

Enjoy!

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