a twist on the classic Burrata with tomatoes, grilled filet steak over leeks and beans, and Meyer lemon tart
Burrata is a delicious start to any meal, and you cannot go wrong with a juicy, well-seasoned steak.
luscious Burrata cheese with tomatoes or roasted peppers
Burrata or mozzarella cheese makes an easy, delicious first course or side dish for any type of meal- Italian or otherwise. The flavors of tomatoes can vary tremendously when not in season (season is summer and early fall) which makes roasted red peppers a good substitute for the tomatoes. I usually just buy good quality…
perfect balance of flavors
the classic grilled filet steak
Grilling steak may take a few tries to master but the key is not to overcook, if anything, undercook because you can always cook it more. A good meat thermometer is helpful to avoid slicing into the center for color. In this recipe, the steak is best served medium rare. Always rest steak to allow for…
delicious leeks with white beans
Leeks are not something often served as a side dish vegetable but more often used as the base for seasoning sauces and other dishes. In England, serving leeks as a side dish is much more common, and truly a delicious complement to many recipes. I adapted this recipe from one by Jamie Oliver in his…
bright burst meyer lemon tart
I love baking but given the chemistry in the process, I rarely change a recipe I find. Yes, I may add or change a spice, but the measurements and types of ingredients remain as listed. The recipe calls for Meyer lemons which tend to be sweeter than regular (Lisbon) lemons. You can substitute one for…
Timing
The day before
Write down your menu, make list of what you need to prepare, and when you will prepare it. Get organized (in your head) with any serving plates or things you need for serving.
Make Meyer lemon tart, cover well and refrigerate
Whip fresh cream and cut lemon wheels (refrigerate separately in sealed container)
Three hours before
Make leeks and beans, keep in pan
Set table- remember napkins, salt and pepper
Organize serving bowls, dishes and serving utensils in kitchen
Put water in a pitcher with lemon or cucumber or nothing and refrigerate
Take out dessert plates and forks, set aside in kitchen ready for lemon tart
One hour before
Make Burrata with tomatoes but do not season
Season steaks and leave out at room temperature
Put on music, open wine, set out glasses for drinks before dinner, and any nibbles/appetizers
15 minutes before guests at table
Season Burrata and place out at each place setting, or in center of table (if family style) with appetizer plates Light candles and put out water
Half way through first course, excuse yourself from table
Begin to grill steaks- you can come back to table while grilling- set a timer on your phone for 4 minutes per side- total cooking time with resting is about 12-15 minutes.
Put leeks on very low heat to begin warming
Tips&Thoughts
When guest arrive
start with a some bubbles- champagne or prosecco
for nibbles- mixed nuts or marcona almonds, seasoned crackers with a store bought eggplant spread, taralli (round, similar to a breadstick from southern Italy), breadsticks,
