I have a pretty great job. It’s not perfect, but then what job is? I mean it is work after all. But most days I try to remember to count my blessings since stress for me comes in the form of trying to find one more sweet find for a guide or getting the newsletter perfect so you love what you see and read. But some days require no reminding at all, like yesterday.
For work I (along with fellow editors, Ashleigh and Nadine) was invited to a media preview of Curtis Stone’s newly released cookware line and to celebrate the launch of his cookbook Relaxed Cooking with Curtis Stone (which of course you already know how much we love). We were treated to champagne upon arrival, followed by a delicious four course dinner complete with wine pairings courtesy of Penfolds (a shout out to The Land Down Under).
Here’s what was on the menu:
We started with Tuna Ceviche with Chile Pepper, Lime, and Soy. It was meaty, tangy and the first time I have ever enjoyed tuna. Kudos to Curtis. Next on the menu was Fresh Linguine with Garlic Shrimp and Homemade Pesto. Curtis garnished the dish with Parmesan and vine roasted cherry tomatoes. We all know how I feel about roasted tomatoes, so this flavour-infused dish was a hit for me.
For our main dish, we savoured Roasted Rack of Lamb with Provencal Ratatouille. Curtis made this at his last media dinner (that’s right, this is the second time Curtis has made me dinner) and it was as good as I remembered. Easy to make, too! And for the finale Blueberry Clafoutis fresh out of the oven. It was custardy and divine.
Needless to say it was a dinner to remember and great reminder of why I love my job.
We also must give props to Curtis’s amazing new cookware line. So smart and multifunctional (not to mention seriously stylish), we wanted every item. Here are our editors’ picks:
Ashleigh was all about the sleek design of the mortar and pestle (Bump & Grind, $200, The Bay). I’m pretty sure Nadine considered stashing this amazing spoon rest (Keep It Clean, $60, The Bay) in her purse on the way out. As for me, I can’t stop thinking about this multi-functional bamboo cutting board (Workbench, $270, The Bay). All great gift ideas for foodie fathers!
Thought that was sweet? Taste-test Curtis’s new cookbook with our Spring Feast menu.