A Tea Affair - Lititz, PA

With special thanks to our very thoughtful tea room customers, our family enjoyed an Afternoon Tea at A Tea Affair in Lititz, PA last October. Upon arrival, we were seated at our table to discover a plate of scones and jelly waiting to be enjoyed. Our waitress took our tea orders, and we passed the scones.

We were offered a choice of their Broccoli Quiche, or the Soup of the Day (a warming butternut squash soup). Both were served alongside a house salad.

There are several options to select from the menu, including a Luncheon Tea, a Garden Tea, a High Tea, or the Children's Tea. We opted for the High Tea as we like to sample as many tea treats as possible. The tiered tray was presented after we finished the soup and quiche. The tier had a variety of four tea sandwiches, their signature crème brulee, and four pastries.

The sandwiches included a fresh and delicious assortment that included cucumber on rye & pumpernickel bread, egg salad, strawberry cream rounds, and a petite tomato caprese round. The Crème Brulee, well, that was simply divine.

And the pastries included a French madeleine, a small layered chocolate raspberry cake, coconut macaroon, and the most beautiful decorated tea cup sugar cookie. It was simply too pretty to eat. It was the crowning touch to a lovely tiered tray. The Afternoon Tea experience was quite enjoyable. Many thanks to Barb, Ann, Barbara, and Raegene. Your thoughtfulness was greatly appreciated.

National Margarita Day!

Trying to find the best way to celebrate National Margarita Day? Have we got a suggestion for you! This refreshing pie highlights the traditional flavors found in the tasty Margarita. This Margarita Pie provides the perfect way to celebrate this special day! The pretzel crust gives a nice salty edge, while the lime juice, tequila, and triple sec highlight the pie. Fluffy, salty, sweet, and celebratory all in one easy to put together pie. According to a national survey, 76% of the population enjoys drinking Margaritas. Let's take our own survey to discover how many people enjoy Margarita Pie. I'd wager it's closer to 96%! Anyway, Happy National Margarita Day! Salud! 

Margarita Pie
1-1/4 c. finely crushed pretzels
2/3 c. butter, melted
1/4 c. sugar
1 can (14 oz.) sweetened condensed milk
1/3 c. fresh lime juice
3 Tbsp. Tequila
2 Tbsp. Triple Sec
1 c. heavy cream, whipped
Lime slices for garnish

Butter a 9-inch pie plate. Combine crushed pretzels, butter, and sugar until blended. Press firmly on bottom and sides of the prepared pie plate. Refrigerate until ready to fill.

In a large bowl, blend sweetened condensed milk, lime juice, tequila, and Triple Sec until well mixed. Gently fold in whipped cream. Spread evenly into prepared pretzel crust.

Cover lightly, and refrigerate at least 2 hours before serving. Garnish with lime slices.
Serves 8.

A Taste of Spain

Last year, Susanna and Angelica prepared a plant based themed dinner for a family celebration, A Taste of Spain. The first course featured Tomato & Cannellini Frijol Dip accompanied with three cheese crackers and an Olive Tapenade Espanola served with Cauliflower whole grain chips. Both of these appetizers were an excellent prelude to the evening feast. And, as you can see, we were eager to dive right into these colorful and flavorful dips.

The next course included Spinach with Chickpeas that were delicately seasoned with Maldon salt flakes and infused with fresh ginger, garlic, and red chili pepper. Lots of flavor in this medley. Marinated Carrots rounded out this course.

A variety of 'small plates followed which included a Spanish Vegetable Stew (Pisto),

followed by a potato omelet (Tortilla Espanola) edged with Goddess Sprinkles of Roses, (look closely), toasted cardamom and allspice berries.

 Dessert must have happened quickly, no time for photos, but there was a three layer chocolate berry cake and a golden cannoli cake (from a local bakery) to round out the gustatory delights. Kudos to Susanna and Angelica for finding a host of delicious, healthy recipes to prepare, present, and savor. It truly was a feast beyond compare. There is eager anticipation for what this year holds for said family celebration.