How to Build a Crowd-Pleasing Crudités Board

How to Build a Crowd-Pleasing Crudités Board

Who would’ve thought a platter of veggies would win over your guests’ hearts? Trust me. Especially in this age of “wellness,” a bread-free board will be a refreshing starter to any gathering, whether the dress code is heels in the living room or bare feet on the patio.

An At-Home Spa Gathering

An At-Home Spa Gathering

Next time you’re scheming the next girls’ gathering with your best friends or female family members, reconsider the traditional party and invite them over for an at-home spa-inspired fête. On a Saturday or Sunday morning, what beats a mocktail in pajamas with your nearest and dearest? Shoulder massage train, anyone?

Olive Tapenade with Crudîtes

 
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Photos by Erin Mosher

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Makes 1 cup

2 garlic cloves
Kosher salt + pepper
1/2 cup niçoise olives, pitted
1/2 cup oil-cured Mediterranean olives, pitted
2 teaspoons capers, rinsed
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Zest of one lemon
1/2 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons parsley
2 cups raw vegetables, such as radishes, carrots, jicama, cucumber

1. Purée all ingredients in your Vitamix until combined. Serve with crudîtes.

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Puréed Pea Toasts

Puréed Pea Toasts

Toast has been dubbed as “#basic” by our social media feeds and sarcastic cooking conversations; but since the beginning, I have been a die-hard. For me, it’s all about the quality of the ingredients that contribute to the combination: a rustic loaf with that gorgeous dark crust and pillow-y interior that toasts tremendously; a bright, smooth layer of spread; a sharp garnish.