Mother's Day Luncheon

Happy Mother's Day to all moms out there. What a perfect day for a relaxing lunch, a fresh menu and great company! I'm just winding down now from a luncheon party that I hosted at our home. I invited my mother, grandmother, sister and her family. The day started early with prepping and worked out to be quite relaxing having only six at the table. I'm pleased with the way my courses turned out and they received rave reviews. Apparently I chose wisely since I knew my mom would appreciate a healthy dish, and everyone would love something new. The wine pairing couldn't have been more perfect as well. Here is my menu:

• Creamy smoked salmon-stuffed cucumbers (recipe below)
• Cranberry cheddar with dried cranberries and crackers
• Mimosas
• Cod and spinach packets topped with buttery bread crumbs
• Toasted pine nut couscous
• Raphael's new 2009 Riesling
• Chocolate/Vanilla ice cream roll
• Keurig coffee varieties

The smoked salmon cucumbers were really fun to make and was a unique twist on the flavors we love in Philadelphia Sushi rolls only using smoked salmon or lox inside English cucumber cups. I have to share this recipe as I think it would be a great summer party menu item for everyone.

Creamy smoked salmon-stuffed cucumbers

• 2 unpeeled English hothouse cucumbers
• 1 (8oz) container of soft cream cheese
• 1 (8oz) container of sour cream
• 1 package (3 oz) of lox or smoked salmon, chopped into small pieces
• 1 shallot, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• Dill for garnish

1. Cut off ends of cucumbers, create strips on the sides with a zester or vegetable peeler. Cut each cucumber into 2 inch pieces. Scoop out seeds and two-thirds flesh from each round.


2. For filling: combine cream cheese and sour cream. Stir in salmon, shallot, lemon juice and a pinch of salt and pepper. Transfer filling to pastry bag fitted with a large star tip. Pipe filling into cucumber cups. Garnish with dill.

Raphael's 2009 Riesling (their first release of the Riesling varietal) is a wine you must try this summer! Especially paired with the refreshing combination of the cucumbers and with the main seafood course. The wine is crisp with citrus notes and a tart finish. This food friendly white is an exciting match.

May the breeze of the fast-approaching summer inspire you! Adventure Girl - out.