Setting the Stage
Think about what makes you feel good. Is it color, scent, or music? Maybe it's a little of each of these.- I find that certain scents lift my spirits when I don't even realize it. Citrus is a great mood lifter. You could do something as simple as simmer citrus peels with a few choice spices in your kitchen to create a little aromatherapy for your party. Or you could burn a citrus scented candle or oil.
- Set your table with neutrals for calming, or bright colors to lift your spirits. The choice is yours.
- You can achieve a combination of comforting colors and scents with the appropriately chosen florals. Once again, this is a very personal decision because everyone has their own comfort triggers. Sunflowers perk me up enormously, but the subtle perfume of peonies or honeysuckle make me feel relaxed and dreamy.
- Last, but not least, music needs consideration. We all have our favorite decade of music, which is usually not the current one unless you're a teenager. Load up your favorite CD's that remind you of those times when you were younger, perhaps more carefree, or from a favorite time period in your life. What was on the radio when you met your spouse? What were the popular songs at your high school prom? How about the hit list when you moved into your own first apartment?
The Menu
I don't care what the current diet trends are. Nothing beats carbs for comfort food. Add a little bit of wine and chocolate to that list, and I'm starting to smile. For some strange reason, when I'm faced with a problem, I just don't turn to a head of broccoli for comfort. Of course, if broccoli makes you feel better when you've been hit with some bad news, then by all means add it to this menu. And, above all else, don't tackle anything too complicated to cook. This is a comfort dinner, after all.My Comfort Dinner Party Menu
Crockpot Spinach Dip - I may not turn to broccoli when I need comfort, but this warm, creamy, make-ahead spinach dip is the perfect way to start my meal and get my veggies too!
Macaroni and Cheese with Bacon - There's just something about the combination of the carbs in the pasta, the creaminess of the cheese, and the saltiness of bacon to make a girl forget all of her troubles.
Heirloom Tomato and Goat Cheese Salad - A tomato salad is the essence of a summer day. Add a flavorful cheese and a few fresh herbs, and you serve smiles on a plate. Even if you can't find heirloom tomatoes or micro basil, the normal varieties should work just fine as long as they're fresh and in season.
Crusty Italian bread served with sweet cream butter.
Mississippi Mud Cake - Chocolate, bourbon, coffee, Emeril, easy, need I say more?
