Showing posts with label Spanish. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Spanish. Show all posts

Tuesday, September 20, 2011

The Band Lured Me In



September- Ahhh September, a month that most households get back into some form of normalcy. Schools are back in session, sports are being played and people are settling into their routines. Although summer is not officially over yet, the air lately has been chillier than I remember it being this time of year. I'm not quite ready for a sweater or warm snugly blanket, but I do enjoy the outdoor events that this season brings. 


This Saturday after my little lovely played soccer we decided to grab a bite to eat. Since we were in Salem, MA we settled on a local sandwich shop. When we got out of the car we couldn't help but hear a Mariachi band. Mariachi music originated in the state of Jalisco, in Mexico. Musicians play many different instruments from brass, wind, percussion, guitars, Guitarrón, and on some occasions  a flute, French horn, accordion, and organ are used. It's a very distinct sound so when I heard it I had to make a stop.

Apparently during the period from September 15 to October 15 in the United States,  people recognize the contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans to the United States and celebrate Hispanic heritage and culture. Hispanic Heritage Week was approved by President Lyndon Johnson and was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 to cover a 30-day period. It was enacted into law on August 17, 1988. Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Mexico, Chile, and Belize all celebrate the anniversary of their independence during the month of September.

Salem has a large Hispanic community, so Saturday they were celebrating with traditional music, food, and activities. It was a really great afternoon learning about the different cultures. I was glad that we decided to make this stop. Since we had no idea that this event was taking place we ate our traditional American BLT sandwiches, but didn't leave until we tasted some traditional Spanish rice. 
Vivir las tradiciones Espanolas! 

Wednesday, April 6, 2011

Una Noche Magnífica Español


Una Noche Magnífica Español - A Magnificent Spanish Night

For eleven years our  friends Heidi & Craig have hosted a Valentine's  dinner. This year, because of snow days and schedules we celebrated this past weekend. Although this was a scheduled stop, I couldn't let the evening go by without a well deserved spotlight in my blog. The theme changes from year to year, highlighting a specific country. The food, decor, and music coordinate to the theme. We've been to France, Italy, China, just to name a few. This year, Spain. Heidi is extremely creative and always outdoes herself with the decor. She doesn't miss a single detail, and this year was no exception. Bright orange Gerber daisies, maps of Spain, and bowls filled with oranges  were spread throughout the house. So inviting, so festive, and so beautiful!

We started off the night with very tasty sangria, and cerveza that our friends Nancy & Scott  brought. Heidi decorated each glass with colored rubber bands and a small map clipping. There was no mistaking our glass so it made it easy to pick up where we left off.

Our friends Marci & George were in charge of the appeizers. They grilled mouthwatering ribs that were to die for. They also brought cheeses from Spain, a fig and almond loaf of yumminess, and tortas de aceite. 
Although I can't give Craig any credit for decor, I must say that he is the master behind the main meal. This year he cooked up an authentic Spanish Paella. It was like a taste bud explosion, meat, seafood, rice, vegetables, spices.....a big pot of awesomeness. If I hadn't stuffed myself with appetizers I could have easily had two more helpings. This picture is making me hungry and I want more!



We ended the evening with a plate of assorted desserts and coconut macaroons that yours truly made. This Barefoot Contessa recipe was super easy and really good. Thanks Tanya for the recipe.....Amazingly enough I didn't screw it up.

I hope you enjoyed this scheduled stop. Spring is here, maybe you'll be inspired to host your very own Una noche magnífica español if so below are some recipes to help you make entertaining seem as effortless as Heidi & Craig do. ! Enjoy!