Ladies Night!

Do you relish any excuse to have the girls (or guys) over for a little mid-week entertainment? It is so nice to diminish the stresses of the week with a couple of cocktails and tasty treats, all in the company of great friends. Last night, I did just that -- hosting a little soiree for my girls as we toasted the upcoming weekend.

Everyone brought a little something special, and the result was a delicious one! I prepared a creamy lemon risotto served in lemon cups, bruschetta and olive tapenade. I also bought cupcakes (chocolate and vanilla oreo, chocolate and vanilla peanut butter, double chocolate and vanilla) from my favorite bake shop, "Buttercream Cupcakes and Coffee." Lucienne brought tangy goat cheese stuffed cherry tomatoes. Anne Laure brought a delectable artichoke and spinach dip. Jessica treated us with homemade guacamole and a fantastic spinach and feta pie. Katie helped round out the meal with strawberry shortcake -- and even whipped up fresh cream on the spot! We washed all of this down with a rose sangria, filled with blackberries, lemon and orange slices.

Whether it's stag night, poker night, or (in our case) Project Runway night, get together with your friends and spice it up with more than just chips and salsa. It's so much fun to be a little bit decadent when the middle of the week brings you down or wears you out. Plus, it is even more affordable when everyone brings a dish (and better yet, a bottle of wine).

Buttercream Cupcakes & Coffee
http://www.buttercreamcupcakes.com/

1411 Sunset Drive
Coral Gables, FL 33143
(305) 669-8181

If you would like any of these recipes, please feel free to email me at: katesplates.blog@gmail.com. Check out the pictures below. Happy entertaining!