Dinner for 8: Happy Birthday Big Sister Keek‏

Birthdays are my favorite occasions to celebrate. I always have some extravagant plan for someone I love, if it’s at all possible to get done.  The weekend of the 12th my big sister, Kristen, had a birthday celebration for the family, and myself and Brandon cooked for everyone. We decided on a last-minute venture all over the place, including a trip to Oxnard farmer’s market and a couple of other grocery stores on the way home. We cut the preparation pretty close, but my family is always pretty flexible when it comes to me cooking. I honestly came up with the menu last-minute, so it’s good I had Brandon with me so he could fill in my brain gaps with the menu. So here’s what we decided on for the fun of it all. (Some photos are missing)

 Menu

Appetizers: Buffalo mozzarella, melon, olives, humus, and pita

Whole sautéed head on prawns with garlic

Three color: white, candy cane, and golden beet salad, with prosciutto chips, goat cheese and mixed greens with honey balsamic vinaigrette

Cabernet and Italian herb braised beef and ricotta stuffed shells

Homemade pasta filled with spinach and chicken ricotta and herbs

Homemade basil spinach pesto with pine nuts and aged Parmesan

Vine-ripened red heirloom pomodoro fresco with basil and extra virgin olive oil

Alfredo sauce over chicken-filled fresh tortelli

Tuile cookie with orange pastry cream and fresh blueberries and blackberries

I think my sister was happily stuffed and opening presents like we used to when we were kids. I loved everyone being together and seeing our little addition, Maleeya, join in the fun.  I love my family very much and my sister is a huge part of that love. I love you Keek. Happy birthday, you old lady! Just remember, I’ll always look up to you just like I did when we were little like monkey. You’re the best sister ever.

Cheers

-Unrivaledkitch