Brazilian Limeade Recipe: Quench summer thirst with a twist on a hot day beverage favorite. In our Outdoor Dining Tips post, we introduced readers to the perfect outdoor menu. Featured in the menu is a twist on a summer beverage classic. This Brazilian limeade recipe will cool and satisfy during the warm summer months ahead. […]
Spring is right around the corner and we’re ready to bring one of our favorite seasons into the kitchen. If you’re in a hotter state, this salad recipe will transition easily into summer, as ice cold watermelon always satisfies with its juicy bite. By gathering a few simple ingredients, you can create a simple and mouthwatering salad. […]
Homemade goodies such as trail mix bars, make perfect afternoon snacks in the Spring. Head to the park with a tin box of these, or take them to the movies (shh.. we wont tell). Ingredients: ⅔ cup almonds ⅔ cup cashews 1½ cups old-fashioned oats ⅓ cup ground flaxseed ⅓ cup mini chocolate chips ⅓ […]
Just in time for Thanksgiving! This Low Country Boil recipe is popular in the coastal states, this simplified version uses shrimp — but other shellfish can be added if you desire. Make sure you have plenty of friends and family on hand since a “boil” is more of a gathering than just a meal. Low […]
Dinner all comes together easily with this delicious roasted chicken dish. Placing a lemon inside the cavity while roasting gives the bird a nice citrus flavor. So simple, this meal will soon be your go-to favorite. Roasted Chicken and Vegetables Recipe (Serves 4 to 5) Ingredients: 1 Approximately 3-pound chicken, preferably free-range, organic 2 medium onions […]
When it comes to family dinner parties, it seems like people usually fall into one of two camps: hosts and guests. We’re guests. And it’s all because my sister, Susan, grabbed the spotlight one year. She pulled out all the stops — and a tradition was born. But not this year. Susan and I had a […]
Gooey cheddar, crisp bacon and tangy green apples combine to create this grilled cheesy goodness. For a tasty twist, try these combinations: pear, ham and ricotta; caramelized onions and Swiss; raspberry jam and cream cheese; or pesto, ham and mozzarella. Grilled cheese stuffed with apple, bacon, and cheddar recipe (Serves 4): Ingredients: 8 ¾” slices country-style […]
We continue our cheese voyage with the parmesan and cheddar cheese biscuits recipe. Take biscuits to the next level with these cheesy, flavorful delights. Serve them with a bowl of hearty soup on a cold winter day. Parmesan and Cheddar Cheese Biscuits (Makes about 8 biscuits) INGREDIENTS: 2 cups + 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour Dash of […]
Mushroom + Gruyére Potato Gratin Comfort food meets gourmet taste for this potato gratin dish. Perfect served as a side dish for your next family gathering. Next is our Fall Recipe series, we’re cooking up the ultimate comfort foods for any evening including Thanksgiving. (Makes 8–10 servings) INGREDIENTS: 1/4 ¾cup olive oil 4 cups finely chopped leeks (about […]
Cream Cheese and Parmesan Asparagus Cigars Elegant, yet simple to make, these asparagus cigars make a fun — and hearty — appetizer. (Makes 10 Cigars) Ingredients: 5 oz. ready-made puff pastry Flour, for dusting 1 oz. cream cheese 10 asparagus spears 1 egg, beaten 2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese Directions: Preheat oven to 400°. […]
Last week we discussed Greg Utsinger’s Weekend Brunch Tips. We’re capping off this week with some last minute brunch recipes for anyone looking to make a last minute ‘wow’ with their guests. Candied Bacon – Makes 10 Slices (via Epicurious) Ingredients: 1/2 pound bacon slices (10 slices) 1/2 cup Demerara sugar Special equipment: brown paper […]
An invitation to a weekend brunch signals relaxation, celebration, indulgent food — and a good time ahead. A bonus? Brunch rarely absorbs an entire day. The host can “chill out” after the goodbyes or finish a project before Monday. Brunch is more relaxed than most parties because much of the work is done ahead, maintains […]
Blueberry Muffin Recipe – Serves 6-8 Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups sugar 1/2 cup butter, softened (plus 2tbsp.) 2 eggs 3 cups flour 1 tbs baking powder 1 tsp salt 3/4 cup milk 1/4 water 2 cups fresh blueberries 8oz. cream cheese, diced 2 tsp. lemon zest Preparation Instructions: Preheat oven to 375°. Line muffin pans with paper […]
Spinach Benedicts Recipe (Serves 6) INGREDIENTS: 6 1/2″ thick slices of Brioche 6 slices turkey breast 6 slices swiss cheese 6 roasted red onion slices (instructions below) 2 cups fresh spinach leaves 6 eggs, scrambled 1 1/2 to 3 cups Hollandise Sauce (see recipe below) 1 tomato PREPARATION INSTRUCTIONS: Preheat the broiler. Place the brioche slices on […]
Shepherd’s Pie: This traditional British dish gets its flavor from lamb and savory winter vegetables. A stick-to-your-ribs meal that’s perfect for chasing away hunger on cool winter nights. Shepherd’s Pie Recipe (Serves 4) INGREDIENTS: 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and cubed 1/2 cup milk, warm 1 stick butter 2 tablespoons sour cream Salt and pepper, to […]
One Pot Meal: Beef Bourguignon The French know a thing or two about slow and low cooking. This savory standby is great on its own with crusty bread or served over egg noodles for a heartier meal. Either way, make this a day ahead or leave some for leftovers because this dish is even better […]
Discover how speciality cheeses can elevate basic dishes to stand-out favorites. From not-so-standard grilled cheese to decadent side dishes and appetizers, we want to inspire you to ‘just say cheese.’ The sea of cheeses we often find at our local grocery store can be intimidating — and confusing — when it’s time to make a purchase. […]
Thinking of creating a “farm to table” menu for guests this summer? Shallowtail Farm in Alachua, Florida was kind enough to treat us, and many other guests to one of their legendary farm to table dinners. In this post, we’ll share chef secrets and recipes for you to try this summer and fall. […]
Everything tastes better when it’s fresh. And the latest trend for fresh food lovers is indulging in farm to table dinners. Extending beyond visiting local, farm-to-table restaurants, diners are now traveling directly to the farm to enjoy mouthwatering meals served family style at harvest tables surrounded by nature’s bounty. Swallowtail Farm in Alachua, Florida is […]
This Italian-inspired indulgence is a coffee, (and chocolate) lovers’ dream. The perfect sophisticated dessert for your next adult dinner party is the Chocolate Espresso Semifreddo. Chocolate Espresso Semifreddo Recipe: (Serves 8) INGREDIENTS: Crust: 1 3/4 cups chocolate cookie crumbs 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted, plus more for brushing the pan Filling: 4 large eggs, yolks and […]
This summer, dining outdoors is a must. Warm weather, good friends, and good people is all you need to make an evening in the backyard memorable. With this succulent recipe for Grilled Pork Kebabs with Ginger Molasses Barbecue Sauce, and our Outdoor Dining Tips blog post, dining al fresco could be happening in your background […]
Cool off in the backyard with these delicious frozen treats this summer. For key lime pie fans, this is a must-try dessert. The easy to make recipe offers the perfect balance of sweet, creamy goodness and crisp, tart sassiness. With the launch of Oak Express’ new Outdoor Living Collection, enjoying the summer heat in your […]
Summer is the perfect season for turning the fresh fruits and berries you find at your local market into icy indulgences. Whether you’re wild for strawberries, or it’s blueberries that tickle your taste buds, mix-and-match your favorite berries to create your own signature frozen fruit pops. Enjoy these frozen treats with Oak Express’ new Outdoor […]
The outdoors is unpredictable. Things don’t always go as planned. In fact, things often go better. When the weather is right, or even close to it, people naturally gravitate there. Add food to the equation, and you’ll never hear complaints about the fact that there isn’t television or air conditioning. Who needs them? You’ve got familiar […]
The perfect spring snack: Strawberry salad recipe with mixed field greens, candied pecans, goat cheese and strawberry balsamic vinaigrette. INSTRUCTIONS For Strawberry Balsamic Vinaigrette: 2 pints strawberries 2 tbs lemon juice 1/2 cup sugar 2 tbs dijon 1 shallot 1 cup balsamic 2 cups canola oil Reduce strawberries, lemon juice, and sugar in pan to […]
We recently featured a Double Fudge Layer Cake in our Easy and Elegant Entertaining Series. A Double Fudge Layer Cake exudes elegance, and we’ve made the Double Fudge Layer Cake Recipe as easy as possible for your next gathering. Double Fudge Layer Cake (serves 8-10) INGREDIENTS: For the Cake 1 cup butter, softened 1/4 […]
On the menu from the Easy and Elegant Entertaining Series, is a stuffed pork loin recipe that cannot be beaten. Pork Loin Stuffed with Fig and Blue Cheese (serves 6) INGREDIENTS: 1 (4–5 lb.) boneless pork loin 1 large onion, halved and then sliced into 1/8″ slices 1 1/2 cups diced dried figs 1 […]
Throwing an elegant party has never been easier. Follow our Easy and Elegant Entertaining series for the best tips, tricks, and ideas for your next party. Skip the sodas, and wow your guests with this easy and elegant Cranberry Punch recipe. Cranberry Punch 1 quart White Cranberry Juice 2 cups Unsweetened Pineapple Juice 2 tablespoons […]
We recently featured a scrumptious Carmel Walnut Tart in our Easy and Elegant Entertaining – Part II Pre Party Checklist. This tart can easily be made the night before and served warm or cold the next day. WALNUT TART (Serves 8-10) INGREDIENTS: For the crust 1 1/2 cups flour 1/2 cup confectioner’s sugar 1/4 […]
Holiday Rugelach Recipe from our Top 10 Favorite Holiday Cookies article. INGREDIENTS: 3 cups all-purpose flour 1/2 tsp. baking powder 1/2 tsp. salt 1 cup unsalted butter, softened 1 1/3 cups sugar 2 large eggs 2 tsp. vanilla extract 2 oz. unsweetened baking chocolate, finely chopped DIRECTIONS: In a large bowl, sift together […]
Raspberry Linzar Cookie Recipe from our Top 10 Favorite Holiday Cookies article. INGREDIENTS: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened 1 1/4 cups sugar, divided 2 eggs, separated 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1/4 tsp. salt 1 cup (approx.) confectioners’ sugar 1/2 cup ground almonds 3/4 cup seedless raspberry preserves 1 cup sliced, toasted almonds, […]
Shortbread Cookie Recipe from our Top 10 Favorite Holiday Cookies article. INGREDIENTS: 2 cups all-purpose flour 2/3 cup sugar 1 tsp. kosher salt 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cut into 1″ chunks DIRECTIONS: Heat the oven to 325°F. In a food processor, pulse together the flour, sugar and salt. Add […]
Gingerbread Men Cookie Recipe from our Top 10 Favorite Holiday Cookies article. INGREDIENTS: 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour 1/2 tsp. baking soda 1 tsp. ground ginger 1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon 1/2 tsp. ground cloves 1/2 tsp. salt 1/2 cup vegetable shortening 1/4 cup light-brown sugar 3/4 cup molasses 1 egg, beaten 1 tsp. […]
Peppermint Meringues Cookie Recipe recipe from out Top 10 Favorite Holiday Cookies article. INGREDIENTS: 2 egg whites 1/8 tsp. salt 1/8 tsp. cream of tartar 1/2 cup sugar DIRECTIONS Preheat oven to 225°F. Line 2 cookie sheets with foil. In a mixing bowl, beat the egg whites, salt and cream of tartar to […]
Angelettis Recipe from our Top 10 Favorite Holiday Cookies article. INGREDIENTS: 4 cups all-purpose flour 2 tablespoons baking powder 1/2 tsp. salt 1 cup unsalted butter 1 cup granulated sugar 6 large eggs 1 tsp. vanilla extract 1 lb. confectioners’ sugar, sifted 1/4 cup lemon juice 2 tablespoons water colored sugar for […]
Peanut Butter Kiss Cookie Recipe from our Top 10 Favorite Holiday Cookies article. INGREDIENTS: 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour 1/2 cup sugar 1/2 cup brown sugar (tightly packed) 1 tsp. baking soda 1/2 tsp. salt 1/2 cup unsalted butter 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter 1 large egg, beaten 2 Tbsp. milk 1 tsp. […]
Pecan Tassies Recipe from our Top 10 Favorite Holiday Cookies article. INGREDIENTS: 1 cup + 2 Tbsp. unsalted butter, divided 8 oz. cream cheese, softened 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1 1/2 cups brown sugar (firmly packed) 2 large eggs 2 tsp. vanilla extract 1/8 tsp. salt DIRECTIONS: Grease mini-muffin pans. Set aside. […]
Chocolate Crinkles Recipe from our Top 10 Favorite Holiday Cookies article. INGREDIENTS: 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar 1 2/3 cups all-purpose flour 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder 1 1/2 tsp. baking powder 1/4 tsp. salt 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature 1 1/4 cups sugar 2 eggs 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract […]
Pinwheel Cookies Recipe from our Top 10 Favorite Holiday Cookies article. INGREDIENTS: 3 cups all-purpose flour 1/2 tsp. baking powder 1/2 tsp. salt 1 cup unsalted butter, softened 1 1/3 cups sugar 2 large eggs 2 tsp. vanilla extract 2 oz. unsweetened baking chocolate, finely chopped DIRECTIONS: In a large bowl, sift together flour, […]
The final installation in our Easy and Elegant Entertaining series is all about the party details. We created a woodland-inspired themed dinner party and are sharing all of the details with you. One thing Furniture Row’s Regional Visual Merchandising Manager, Greg Utsinger, stresses is to not worry about things being perfect. “Don’t make things so […]
Let’s face it— Although most cookies are delicious, not all cookies are created equal. Here at Oak Express, we have rounded up the top 10 favorite holiday cookies beloved by sweet enthusiasts. Did your favorite cookie make the list?
Part II in the Easy and Elegant Entertaining Guide by Oak Express. We’ve gathered the best tips from around the industry and created the perfect pre party checklist for your next gathering. As a bonus, we’re also providing easy Party Dos and Don’ts to keep you on track at your party. Pre Party Checklist: […]
Easy & Elegant Entertaining from Furniture Row: The wonder of the season’s first snowfall. The warm glow of a fire. A house full of laughter. And a mug full of cheer. May you thoroughly enjoy all the sights and sounds of this new season! When it comes to hosting an elegant party, Greg Utsinger, Regional Visual Merchandising Manager […]