Yesterday I decided to whip up a high tea to enjoy at home. After a long week of being productive (my way of coping), working, trying to stay healthy and sane, and training a new puppy, I thought we deserved a treat and some relaxation.
My blog post featuring the books I read before going to Paris (if you missed it, click here), featured Lessons from Madame Chic: The top 20 Things I Learned While Living in Paris by Jennifer L. Scott. She went on to pen a follow-up book called At Home with Madame Chic and that is where I got the inspiration for the vanilla cupcakes with strawberry frosting. The frosting is amazing-my husband said it might be the best cupcakes he’s ever had!
I made egg salad sandwiches on rolls by The Cheesecake Factory; hummus and cucumber on wheat bread; avocado and safflower mayonnaise on wheat bread; and cream cheese and cucumber on wheat. (These combinations I got from At Home with Madame Chic also.) Usually, I’d mix it up more with the bread selection, but I was using what I already had to avoid an unnecessary trip to the store.
I love playing with flavor and color when entertaining. The passion fruit tea complemented the meal and dessert nicely–both in looks and taste. And it’s always nice to serve some sparkling to elevate the experience!
With the sun streaming through the window, flowers blooming in our view, and classical music playing in the background, we were able to sip and savor. When tea was over, I lingered at the table to enjoy the special French issue of Tea Time magazine. I cannot wait to try some of the featured recipes. Brie and olive scones? Yes, please!
Photos by Living Frenchly