I am honored to present a truly seductive recipe straight from Italy, complements of Chef Simone, from Lucca.

He creatively combines courgettes, or zucchini as we call them in the US, and a Béchamel sauce for a twist on an all time favorite comfort food--lasagna. If zucchini isn't your thing, you can substitute this with a vegetable of your choice such as mushrooms, artichokes, eggplant, or asparagus. Chef Simone's vegetable lasagne is made with alternate layers of wide pasta, vegetables, cheese, and a bechamel sauce.

Remember lasagna is a dish that taste even better the next day so you have a very good reason to extend your date.

Lasagne di Zucchine
Recipe courtesy of Chef Simone, Tours of Italy
Check out the web site: Cooking Course in Tuscany for delicious cooking classes with Oliver!

Ingredients:

• 1 box of egg pasta
• 2.2 pounds Zucchini or Courgettes, cut into small pieces
• Extra virgin olive oil
• 1 large white onion, diced
• 2 cups of fresh, grated parmesan cheese
• Salt and Pepper to taste

Béchamel Sauce

• 3 cups of hot milk
• 3 parsley stalks
• 1 bay leaf
• 10 whole black peppercorns
• 1/4 tsp mace (or nutmeg)
  
• 1 slice onion, 1/4 inch thick
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3/4 oz plain flour
• salt and pepper to taste
  
• 5 oz unsalted butter
• 3 1/2 oz all purpose flour
• salt & pepper to taste
  

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Each year, an array of food specialists offer their predictions for 2009. I have assembled the opinions of three "futurists" that have hit what may be the top food trends that emerge this year. Given our exposure to food based TV shows and the desire to recreate these exotic dishes at home, today's ailing economy, the public's concern over environmental issues and the desire for sustainable solutions; I think you will agree we've pretty much uncovered some interesting potential for the New Year.

I hope this whets your appetite for many seductive meals in 2009.
Happy New Year! Wishing everyone the best 2009 has to offer, Terry


Enjoy the crystal ball food predictions for 2009
Source: Epicurious.com, Sabah Karini of Associated Content and D'Acqua Ristorante

Epicurious.com makes the following culinary predictions for 2009:

Peruvian is the new Thai You thought Peruvian cuisine was all about ceviche, maybe? Guess again: Peru boasts culinary influences from Spanish, Basque, African, Cantonese, Japanese, Italian, French, and British immigrants. Pisco Sour, anyone?

Noodle Bars are the new Sushi Joints: With some seafood being suspect or over-fished and raw fish prices high, noodles make complete sense. If there's no ramen, udon, or soba shop in your neck of the woods, there probably will be soon.

"Value" is the new "Sustainable": These days, the economy dictates our cooking and shopping decisions. Bargains are in, no matter where they come from.

Ginger is the new Mint: Move over, mojitos. Ginger beers and ginger cocktails (like the Ginger Rogers, Gin-Mule, and Ginger Smash) are bubbling up at places like the Violet Hour in Chicago , the Clock Bar in San Francisco , and Matsugen in New York

Smoking is the new Frying: You know how everything tastes better fried? Well, almost everything tastes better smoked, too, and that includes cocktails. Bartenders ( Eben Freeman at Tailor in New York , for example) are smoking their bourbons, and chefs, recognizing the national craze for BBQ flavor, are smoking more than just salmon and ribs: nuts, salts, even smoked steelhead roe (at Chicago's Alinea). Who says smoking's bad for you?

Regional Roasters are the new Starbucks : It's come full circle. What started as a local coffee phenomenon migrated to other cities and turned Americans into java junkies. Then the chain over-expanded, and the little neighborhood coffee roasters thrive again, like Stumptown (Portland, Oregon), Blue Bottle (San Francisco), and La Colombe (Philadelphia).

Portland ( Maine ) is the new Portland ( Oregon ): Abundance of great chefs, restaurants, and local foodies? Check, check, and check. Want examples? Visit Five Fifty-Five, Hugo's, and Fore Street to start.

Rustic Food is the new Molecular Gastronomy: Wacky weird-science cuisine that requires fancy-schmancy equipment doesn't necessarily make food taste better, and more often than not it adds needless complexity (there are exceptions). Most importantly, no one really wants to do this at home. Expect to see comfort food stage a comeback again.

"Top-Rated" is the new "Critic's Pick": Power to the people; single critics are a dying breed. Why believe what one person says when you can read and reflect on what hundreds think?

2009 promises to be the year when consumers try more exotic flavors than ever before. More people had a chance to travel in 2005 and 2006, giving them the opportunity to try global cuisine and bring home a few tricks of the trade for their own kitchen preparations. Fresh spices from Asia, exotic fruit in savory dishes and sweet and savory pairings are just a few top trends in restaurant menus and gourmet pantries across the country for 2009. Whether you're a die-hard foodie or just jumping into gourmet food tastings, here's what to look forward to in 2009:

2009 Food Trend: Yumberry Jam

If you enjoy exotic fruit, enjoy some of the latest picks from the Amazonian jungle at the breakfast table. This is the year to spread some antioxidant-rich jams and jellies on toast and enjoy some very unique flavors. Superfruits including mangosteen and acai berry will continue to be popular picks for those who want a sweet but tart wake-up call.

2009 Food Trend: More Than Rhubarb Pie

Rhubarb is going to start showing up in both sweet and savory dishes this year as chefs adapt this versatile ingredient for a number of dishes. Rhubarb can be used in stir fries, pot pies and other savory dishes to give the recipe a hint of sweetness - and a distinctive flavor.

2009 Food Trend: The Fifth Taste

Fermented foods including mushrooms, cheese and other foods that have the taste profile known as 'umami' will be driving many of the exotic food trends in 2009. More chefs will be designing menu items around fermented foods that add a sour 'bite' to any dish. These foods may also have benefits for the digestive system, so don't be surprised to find new condiments and ingredients in the health food aisle.

2009 Food Trend: Turmeric for Your Health

Spice blends from the Middle East return for another year as more people jump into the flavors of the Far East to liven up their dishes. Cumin, garam masala, Japanese tamari and curry powder will all be making an appearance in otherwise-bland dishes, and helping you train your taste buds for a new experience.


"What is taking place in the country is always an influencing factor when it comes to the way people tend to eat throughout the year," explains Enzo Febbraro, the co-owner and executive chef of D'Acqua Ristorante. "Right now, times are tight, people are watching their money, and food choices will be based partly upon these conditions."

Environmental Eating: As more people learn about the environmental waste associated with plastic water bottles, they will begin to opt more and more for re-usable bottles and for filtering their own water. In addition to saving money, they'll help the planet, as well.

Locally Grown: Eating locally grown ingredients is a trend that is on the rise and will continue in 2009. Locally grown ingredients tend to be fresher, support people close to the consumer and are better for the environment because there is no transporting of the products over long distances.

Market Deals: Farmer's markets have steadily been gaining in popularity and will continue to do so. Not only do people get many locally grown items, but they also find fresher and cheaper items.

Seasonal Sensations: Keeping in line with choosing food that is locally grown and from farmer's markets, consumers will opt for more seasonal items.

Gluten-Free: Products that are made gluten- or wheat-free are continuing as a trend, as more people become aware of allergies.

Natural Nosh: Another trend for the New Year is food that comes from natural ingredients. Many people are skipping things like high fructose corn syrup and opting for natural products.

Tea Time: Tea has been proven as a drink many people are turning to for its antioxidant benefits. Trends in tea consumption will likely continue.

Selective Dining: Consumers love to eat out, and 2009 will be no different. However, because of budget concerns, they are likely to be more selective about where they spend those dining dollars, opting for good-tasting food that also offers an atmosphere, so it's more like a night out than just a quick meal.

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Hi everyone. I am pleased to announce Seduction Meals, with the help of The Laura Baddish Group, is participating in the 5th annual fundraiser- Menu for Hope.

What's Menu For Hope? It's an annual fundraising campaign hosted by Chez Pim and food bloggers from around the world. "Five years ago, the devastating tsunami in Southeast Asia inspired me to find a way to help, and the very first Menu for Hope was born", says Pim Techamuanvivit. "The campaign has since become a yearly affair, raising funds to support worthy causes worldwide. In 2007, Menu for Hope raised nearly $100K to help the UN World Food Program feed the hungry."

Now in its fifth year, food bloggers from all over the world have join the campaign by offering an array of prizes for the Menu for Hope raffle. Anyone can buy raffle tickets to bid on these prizes. For every $10 donated, you earn one virtual raffle ticket to bid on a prize of your choice. At the end of the two-week campaign, the raffle tickets are drawn and the results announced on Chez Pim.

Last year's efforts raised nearly $100,000 through the online food community and that money went to supporting the school lunch and farming program for children in Lesotho. So find your inner philanthropist and check out the great array of prizes. I know this year is tough, but if you can find it in your heart to give $10, $20 or more, it will go to a really great cause; together we are doing what we can to help fight World hunger.

Here is the prize brought to you by Seduction Meals and The Baddish Group. The Hotel Costes CD Collection, a $230 value, to play during your next romantic soiree for two.

Prize Code UE41:   The Hotel Costes CD Collection


Absolutely stunning 10 CD Anniversary box set featuring the complete Hotel Costes series pressed on gold discs and stored in a beautiful red velvet-like cloth-covered mini cabinet with ten drawers that hold each disc separately. Includes all the Hotel Costes classics from Pink Martini, Gotan Project, Shirley Bassey, Thievery Corporation, Yves Montant, Grace Jones, Rouge Rouge, Variety Lab, DJ Cam, De Phazz, Dublex Inc, Cesaria Evora, Femi Kuti, Slow Train, Louie Austen and many more!

Let's Get Started...
Visit these sites to review the prizes you want to bid on. Take down the code numbers and prize titles. Then go to Firstgiving.com to purchase tickets and apply the cost to your selected prizes. For detailed directions see below. Good luck!

View Prizes:
Go to the Master List of Prizes to see all the prizes for bidding, or go to each regional host blog:

Europe *including* the UK
Sara of Ms.Adventures in Italy

US: West Coast
Matt Armendariz of Matt Bites

US: East Coast
Jaden Hair of Steamy Kitchen
In addition to Seduction Meals, check out all of the other great prizes from fellow East Coast Bloggers

Canada
Meena Agarwal of Hooked on Heat

Asia Pacific, Australia, New Zealand
Ed Charles of Tomato.

How to Start Bidding for Prizes and Donate to this worthy cause.

Step 1: Select Your Prize(s)

• Choose a prize or prizes of your choice from our Menu for Hope at Chez Pim or any regional of the regional hosts listed above.
• Write down the prize code numbers and prize title

Step 2: Purchase Raffle Tickets

• Go to the donation site at FirstGiving.com and make a donation.
• Each $10 you donate will give you one virtual raffle ticket toward the prize(s) of your choice. Every $10 donation, gets you one entry. Bid on as many prizes as you like. If you really want a prize, increase your chances of winning by putting as many $10 tickets as you want towards it.
• Please specify which prize you'd like in the 'Personal Message' section in the donation form when confirming your donation. You must write how many $10 tickets per prize--please use the prize code.
• For example, a donation of $50 can be 2 tickets for EU01 and 3 tickets for EU02. Please write 2xEU01, 3xEU02
• If your company matches your charity donation, please check the box and fill in the information so we could claim the corporate match.
• Note: Please allow us to see your email address so that we could contact you in case you win.  Your email address will not be shared with anyone

Good luck. We all thank you for your generous support!

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For those that are not affected by the woes of our current economy, here are a collection of seductive gifts that will bring a smile to your truly pampered lover. For the rest of us... it's fun to dream.



Dom Perignon & Godiva Truffles - $175
Dom Pérignon and Godiva are legendary brands that have set the standard for combining luxury with heavenly taste. Known for their artful approach to perfecting vintage Champagne, Dom Pérignon is the ideal pairing for Godiva's decadent 18-piece signature truffles.

Saks 5th Avenue: Petrossian Royal Ossetra Caviar 30grams - $189
Wild Russian caviar has a distinctive nutty flavor and is delectably fresh.

Takashimaya: Caviar Plate and Spoon - $45 and $12
Caviar companions.  A natural mother-of-pearl plate and spoon from the Indo-Pacific Ocean, hand-cut and polished, to enhance your festivities.

Vosges Haute Chocolat: Chocolate Sensory Collection - $375
Our extensive Sensory Collection is both a connoisseur's guide to chocolate tasting and an intricate game of smell and taste to be enjoyed by children and adults alike. Designed to develop your sense of smell and your ability to recognize and articulate the aromas of varietal chocolate, the experience of uncapping vials, inhaling essences and nibbling chocolate will engage and intrigue any crowd. Have a party, gather with friends or family and unlock the mysteries of Mother Earth's magical cacao.

Saks 5th Avenue: 18 Bottle Wine Cellar - $219
Store your best in this silent 18 bottle wine refrigerator with an elegant black cabinet and stainless steel trim door

Saks 5th Avenue: Peter Luger, The Ultimate Steak Gift Set - $299
What The New York Times calls "the best steaks in America." Packaged just for saks.com, this fabulous gift box is sure to please.

Marx Foods: Live Oyster Sampler - $114.50
The ultimate aphrodisiac? This Live Oyster Sampler includes 1 dozen of each of the following: Pacifics, Kumamotos, Virginicas, and Olympias.  Compare the different flavors, textures, and experiences of each of our oysters.Line 'em up and slurp 'em down. $75.50 for 4 doz & $39.00 for overnight Fedex

Veuve Clicquot Demi-Sec & 19 Godiva - $100
Demi-Sec, a slightly sweet style of Champagne, is at its best when served with desserts. Veuve Clicquot Demi-Sec, marked by fresh peach, nectarine and orange blossom, pairs beautifully with Godiva's assorted deep dark chocolates, smooth milks, velvety ganaches, classic truffles and pralines. An impressive gift for any celebration.

Vosges Haute Chocolat: Gourmet Cheese & Chocolate Collection - $295
A curious contemplation of fermentation through the lustful study of cheese and chocolate...
A collection for the foodies of the world, the die-hard cheese and chocolate addicts or those who are just looking for a little adventure in the office break room. Each branded, sustainable bamboo box.

Saks 5th Avenue: Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin iPod Speaker - $600
Set the mood right with music and sound to capture the moment. The embodiment of more than 40 years of experience and know-how in speaker design, Zeppelin uses the same technologies developed for dedicated high-end speakers. A full stereo system in one unit, it releases all of the detail and atmosphere that standard iPod/MP3 speaker systems miss.

Takashimaya: Spice Cups and Ebony Tray - Cups $48 each, Ebony Tray $75
Serving safari. Spice cups hand-crafted of horn in Africa . Giraffe or cheetah inspired patterns, both with condiment spoons, sitting on a hand-carved ebony tray. Hand wash only.

Barneys: Armand Diradourian Cashmere Pillows - Make Love Not War $295, LOVE Pillow, $265
Handmade cashmere pillow with embroidered red and orange "Make love not war" or "Love" phrase and red trim. 16" x 16". Cashmere, down fill. Dry clean.

Saks 5th Avenue: Wine Tasting & Aroma Kit - $200
This comprehensive kit will help you identify wine tastes and aromas like a true connoisseur! Develop an extensive wine vocabulary and be well-educated when selecting wines at restaurants and stores.

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We all have moments of being naughty and nice--let's celebrate both with seductive gift ideas to keep the balance of life going. Happy Holidays, Terry



Naughty: Erotic Lounge, Various Artists - $74
This volume of Erotic Lounge has two CDs, one cd labeled "Soft and Lazy" and the other "Quick and Dirty". The overall sound of the songs mainly focus on acid jazz, break beat, trip hop, and whatever is in between.

Nice: Hotel Costes, The Collector's Box -  $230
Absolutely stunning 10 CD Anniversary box set featuring the complete Hotel Costes series pressed on gold discs and stored in a beautiful red velvet-like cloth-covered mini cabinet with ten drawers that hold each disc separately.
 
Naughty: Sexy Slang - $22.45
The Sexy Slang board game is an adult party game that mixes charades & drawings with a naughty twist.

Nice: Foodie Fight, $19
Calling all food lovers! This addictive trivia game allows players to strut their culinary stuff and prove who is the smartest foodie of them all. With over 1,000 questions on topics ranging from culinary science and celebrity chefs to food history and exotic cuisine, each player is bound to get a full serving of food knowledge. But think fast, because the first player or team to fill in their game board wins!

Naughty: Kama Sutra Loving Oils Collection Set - $22.99
Delight your lover with a variety of irresistible sensations. Each of these water-based treats reveals a gentle scent and a warming glow. The set contains sampler sizes of: The Original, Chocolate Mint, Cherry Almond, Raspberry Kiss and Vanilla Crème. Invite a lover's lips to name them all.

Nice: Temecula Olive Oil Sampler - $23.99
A tremendous sampler pack of handcrafted olive oils. Olivum, a rich buttery blend of several varietals is the perfect enhancement to any recipe instead of vegetable oils or butter. Citrus Reserve will enhance your salads, poultry, seafood or baking with the essence of Blood oranges. Roasted Garlic Reserve is a must-have for that pasta or grilled meat lover.

Naughty: Jacques Torres, Wicket Hot Chocolate - $18
Feeling daring?Try the Wicked Hot Chocolate that features allspice, cinnamon, ground, sweet ancho chili peppers, and smoked, ground chipotle chili peppers!

Nice:Chocolat Modern, Hot Chocolates - $18
With a choice of aromas spanning the Mediterranean and Orient, you'll be whisked away in new directions of hot chocolate enjoyment.

Naughty: Will Cook for Sex - $16.50
Women were once taught that the way to a man's heart was through his stomach. In reality, fewer women cook, or really want to. Making reservations or ordering in has become one of the multiminded abilities of today's more progressive woman. Therein is the problem. Men must learn to navigate their way around the kitchens, galleys and cucinas of the world. In fact, to every man's advantage, the women can be very generous to men who know a spoon from a spatula. All men need is some beautiful inspiration and a few words of simple instruction from Rocky Fino. Step-by-step pictorials include menus and recipes for important occasions like The Date, The Stacked Deck, The Closer, the Morning After and The Weekend Pass.

Nice: Digital Recipe Reader - $299
Neiman Marcus touch-screen digital recipe file holds up to 2,500 recipes and arrives pre-loaded with hundreds of recipes, including some exclusive Neiman Marcus  recipes. You can upload your favorite recipes and photos to the online database and sync with the device to create your personal, portable digital recipe file.

Naughty: Kama Sutra Chocolate Body Paint Set - $34.21
For those who think chocolate is better than sex, here's a way to indulge in your two favorite passions at once. Open the lid of this beautiful box and behold three generous jars of delicious chocolate body paints. Brush this incredibly rich treat onto someone you love to love, then create a delicious masterpiece on any part of the body. Set contains: 2 oz Dark body paint 2 oz Milk body paint 2 oz White chocolate body paint Body paintbrush to create your masterpiece.

Nice: Chocolate Firecracker Bar Set - $18
Get fired up with Chuao's latest sensation--the Firecracker Candy Bar made with caramel fudge, chipotle, salt & popping candy!  Dark chocolate bar with chipotle, salt and popping candy. Comes in packages of three bars.

Naughty: Strip Chocolate Game - $29.99
Strip Chocolate is the ultimate game of sensual pleasure. You will laugh, you will strip and you will eat chocolate in new and different ways. Strip Chocolate comes complete with 2 Chocolate Body Frostings, 2 brushes, dice, and "Dare" cards?this game is hours of fun! Perfect for Valentine's Day, honeymoon or any other romantic occasion. Play by the rules and everybody wins! It's fun, sexy and of course tasty.

Nice: The Sweet Spot - $21.27
Finding a compilation of Asian-inspired desserts isn't always an easy task, as baking sections tend to be chockfull of Italian and French influenced titles. The good news is Ong (owner of NYC's P*ong) presents more than 100 accessible, top-notch recipes inspired from such countries as Japan (Honey Castella, or kasutera), China (Peanut Turnovers) and India (Pistachio Rose Thumbprint Cookies). Popular desserts from New York's famed Spice Market (where Ong has consulted)-- Chocolate and Vietnamese Coffee Tart and Jasmine Rice Pudding--lend themselves to frequent repetition.

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He will relish these gifts...Seductive gourmet food, music and music players that will help set a romantic ambiance for your next Seduction Meal. Happy Holidays!



Saks 5th Avenue: Peter Lugar Steak Set - $299
The Ultimate Steak gift set, exclusively online at Saks. What The New York Times calls "the best steaks in America."

Saks 5th Avenue: The Wine Enthusiast - $40
Pocket-size electronic talking wine master features a sleek, slim design, easy control panel and over 10,000 wine and spirit reviews, ratings and suggested retail prices.

Amazon: Jazz Icons- $108
Jazz Icons represents the new millennium's most welcome shot in the arm for the music's soul. This DVD contains unique performances by John Coltrane, Dexter Gordon, Dave Brubeck and Sarah Vaughan only available in this boxed set.

Red Envelope: Assorted Dipped Strawberries - $39.95
These incredible, mouthwatering fruits are sure to have the crowds oohing and ahhing. Each succulent strawberry is artfully hand-dipped then coated in goodies for a unique flavor combination in every bite.

Victoria Taylor Gourmet: The Tail Gate Party Pack - $19.95
Inspired by sports fans and grill masters across America, Victoria Gourmet introduces The Tailgating Party Pack. Whether you're grilling in the backyard or tailgating before the big game, these blends will add flavor and excitement to your foods. The most delicious barbecued steak, Southwestern spicy chili, Cajun jambalaya or fresh onion and herb dip await you as our most macho blends deliver a culinary experience bursting with robust taste. Anyone who enjoys sporting events and the festivities surrounding them will look for excuses to incorporate these seasoning blends in the foods they prepare.

Saks 5th Avenue: Bowers & Wilken Zepplin Ipod Speakers - $600
Turn up the tunes for romance. The embodiment of more than 40 years of experience and know-how in speaker design, Zeppelin uses the same technologies developed for dedicated high-end speakers. A full stereo system in one unit, it releases all of the detail and atmosphere that standard iPod/MP3 speaker systems miss.

Barneys: Gift Card - $100 - $500
Picky people love the Barneys New York Gift Card!

Barneys: 16 Bottle Wine Cellar - $180
Store your best in this silent 16 bottle wine refrigerator with an elegant black cabinet and stainless steel trim door.

Barneys: Kim Seybert four piece Bar Set - $40
Set of four stainless steel utensils: strainer, bar knife, bottle opener, jigger. Each finished with giraffe pattern dyed on pressed raffia. Available in black/natural.

Red Envelope: Wine Tasting Party - $60
Wine buff or wine bluff, it's up to you. Slip wine bottles into numbered wine bags. After tasting each wine, guests take a guess. Even if no one correctly identifies the wine, engaging conversation is guaranteed.

Vosage: Fire Red Pecans - $26
Red Fire Pecans: Georgian and New Mexican pecans + ancho chillies + organic sugar + dark cocoa *Mild Piquancy.

Red Envelope: Monogrammed Grand Pilsner Beer Glasses - $49.95
Like wine, beer should be served in a glass designed to enhance its particular flavor and aroma. Our classic Pilsner glass has a tapered shape that brings out the best in the brew.

Grill Charms: Steak Collection - $19.95
Similar in concept to wine charms, these dime-sized solid stainless steel Grill Charms are intended to help distinguish spices and flavors, meat temperatures and other concerns to avoid health and allergy issues. Placed in your food before grilling, the serrated stems hold each charm securely in place while the item - meat or veggie - is moved and flipped about while cooking. When done, the grill master will avoid the troublesome guesswork - he or she will know exactly which item goes to which individual. And, the company offers a multitude of designs, each in sets of 6, for various purposes, including the Steak Collection indicating temperatures ("MR" for Medium Rare, for example), the Spicy Collection and others that are lifestyle-driven such as The Charmed Life Collection. Grill Charms are perfect for any cooking enthusiast, whether in your own home or another

Saks 5th Avenue: Wine Tasting Aroma Kit - $200
This comprehensive kit will help  identify wine tastes and aromas like a true connoisseur! Develop an extensive wine vocabulary and be well-educated when selecting wines at restaurants and stores

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It's that time of year again and shopping for your cherished foodie lover shouldn't be a task. Here are some delicious ideas that will do the trick. Seductive, affordable, and ready for delivery. Happy Shopping, Terry






Vosges Haute Chocolate: Couture Cocoa Gift Box - $55
A signature line of Couture Cocoas, packaged in a rich purple gift set box and tied with a grosgrain ribbon

Red Envelope: Personalized Modern Ginger Bread House - $70
Every bit as edible as the original, this isn't your grandma's gingerbread house. We gave the classic holiday treat a mid-century makeover, complete with garage and rock garden. A unique gift and sure-fire conversation piece, it comes assembled and ready to enjoy.

Saks 5th Avenue: Wine Enthusiast: Wine Master 2008 - $40
Pocket-size electronic talking wine master features a sleek, slim design, easy control panel and over 10,000 wine and spirit reviews, ratings and suggested retail prices.
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Saks 5th Avenue: Peter Luger Steak Gift Set - $299
The ultimate steak gift set, exclusively at Saks.  What The New York Times calls "the best steaks in America."

Victoria Taylor Gourmet: Australian Flake Sea Salt 4-Pack - $48.20
An all time favorite, this salt is a beautiful light pink color and has a delicate texture that comes from the fluffy crystals that are reminiscent of snowflakes. The taste is clean and light.

Marx Foods: Ritrovo's Balsamic Collection, 3 bottles - $108.25
This collection of fine balsamic vinegar includes aged balsamic, spicy aged balsamic, and balsamic apple vinegar.

Marx Foods: Lobster Herb and Creme Shaped Ravioli - $121
As fun as they are delicious, heart shaped ravioli are perfect for Valentine's Day, romantic dinners or just as a way to spice up a meal on an ordinary day. Only sold in bulk $18.45 per lb. x 5 lbs. Visit the site for a complete list of artisinal pastas.

La Cense: Prime Rib Roast - $99
Roasts that Rock! There's only one thing better than the aroma of a slow-cooked or grilled roast: the first bite. Indulge in the true beef flavor of grass-fed La Cense roasts and make every dinner special. It's bursting with the full, mellow flavor that makes our grass-fed Prime Rib a favorite among beef aficionados.

Gourmet Food Store: Winter Black French Truffles - $106 1oz
Winter Black truffles are harvested in the wintertime in the forests of the Perigord and Lot regions of France. French black truffles are wildly popular, nicknamed "the black diamond" for their rarity and dazzling flavor. They are designated "brushed" which literally means they have been carefully cleaned and brushed, and are ready to use. Shave over pastas; aromatize chicken and meat dishes, winter soup or even scrambled eggs. They are preserved in their own brine or juice, which can be used for sauces or broths.

Saks 5th Avenue: Nambe Kissing Salt & Pepper Shakers - $79
Created by famous designer Karim Rashid, these award-winning shakers are a museum piece for your dinner table.

Crate & Barrel: Margarita Rimming Salt -$7
A combination like no other, this sensational seasoning mixes coarse salt and the kick of natural citrus. Our margarita salt is the perfect tangy blend for the ultimate in cocktail refreshment.

Saks 5th Avenue: Sweet Spice Kit - $42
Easy-to-use pre-measured packets of organic spices essential for making sweets or chai, including allspice, anise seed, cardamom, korintje cinnamon, cloves and nutmeg. There are other variation on the Spice Kit if you are all set with Sweetness.

Vosges Haute Chocolate: Exotic Caramel Collection - $74
Now this is the collection for the thrill seeker locked inside the purist's soul, the pragmatically adventurous if you will. For inside, pure and butter-soft-classic caramel, trustworthy and reliable, flirts with its inner wild child.

Crate & Barrel: Tupelo Honey Spoons - $10
Stir the sweet, nutritious goodness of Tupelo honey into your tea or other hot beverage with these hand-made lollipop "spoons."

Chocolat Moderne: Exotic Hot Chocolate: Come to the Cocoa Casbah - $18
With a choice of aromas spanning the Mediterranean and Orient, you'll be whisked away in new directions of hot chocolate enjoyment.

Intentional Chocolate; Chocolate Caramel - $16
English caramel covered with pure Hawaiian dark chocolate infused with the spiritual energy of experienced meditators, personally trained with the Dalai Lama. Call it a thought, a prayer, or a blessing, intention is the expression of purpose and the direction of source energy within all of us. Six scrumptious squares of English caramel and Hawaiian chocolate delight make a meaningful -- and much appreciated gift.

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After a healthy hike in the woods, an outdoor sports event, or a walk through the park, this bright flavored soup will warm up your body head to toe.  A cream-based soup made of assorted greens--you can use any combination of greens such as watercress, broccoli and red chard; served with grilled halloumi cheese sandwiches. Perfect!

cream of assorted greens soup with Halloumi toast
Recipe courtesy of Christine Cushing
Makes 6 servings   

soup ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 leek, white and light green parts only, chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 3 thyme sprigs
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 quart chicken stock
• 1 Yukon gold potato, peeled and diced
• 3 cups loosely packed spinach, trimmed and washed (4 oz)
• 3 cups loosely packed fresh Swiss chard, trimmed and washed (4 oz)
• 1/3 cup whipping cream
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
• Coarse salt and freshly cracked black pepper
• Pinch freshly grated nutmeg

Halloumi  toast

• 6 baguette slices
• 6 slices of Halloumi cheese

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Serving caviar, oysters or lobster simply elevates a Seduction Meal to another level. However, you don't have to spend a fortune to enjoy quality gourmet caviar. American caviar prices are more reasonable than those of importers, and this, coupled with some very unique flavors, makes for an excellent romantic meal for two--be it a simple appetizer or the main course. American Keta Salmon Malossol caviar cost about $20 for for a 4-oz tin. It's roe is large with a golden-orange color, firm texture and a clean burst of crisp salmon flavor.

While caviar does not require adornment, it can be served with a variety of garnishes such as toast points, unsalted crackers, or blinis (small flat pancakes), chopped hard-boiled eggs, crème fraîche, sour cream, minced onions, and tiny new white potatoes. For my Seduction Meal treat, I served caviar with toast points, crème fraîche, snipped chives and shots of Stolychinia Vodka. Enjoy; as this is truly an affordable, indulgent gastronomic experience.

And, there are many recipes that elevate to another level when adding caviar such as my grilled lobster served over crab ravioli with cream sauce--try topping this with a delicate black caviar. Or for a special breakfast in bed try salmon caviar rolls.

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