The Ina Resolution

Ah, the New Year filled with hopes and dreams and lofty goals of trying to lose weight before another year rolls around. Well, this year I have decided to focus my resolutions on honing my skills in the kitchen. Last year our IDC (dinner club) got underway and it has been a great venue for trying out all those recipes that I pick-up from various places.  With another year of IDC about to begin with the theme of New Year's Resolutions- I had to stop and think what will I resolve to do this year?

There is no secret here- I love Ina Garten!  Her foolproof recipes and her relaxed style are just the thing for someone like me.  Not too long ago I attended a book signing for Ina Garten for her new book, "Barefoot Contessa Foolproof" and I was inspired by the cookbook to venture forth and cook my way through the  book.  Of course usually I start out with very high ambitions and so I have gone through the book and decided what recipes I am going to make and then hopefully I will get this resolution started.

Here are the recipes I am hoping to create this year:

Cocktails:

- Mustard & Gruyere batons

- Crab Strudels

-Jalapeno cheddar crackers

-Parmesan Crisps

Starters:

-Winter Minestrone & Garlic Bruschetta

- Easy Tomato Soup & Grilled Cheese Croutons

- Spanish Pea Soup with Crispy Ham

-Easy Gazpacho & Goat Cheese Croutons

Lunch:

- Lobster Corn Fritters

- Lobster & Potato Salad

-Balsamic Roasted Beet Salad

-Roasted Asparagus & Prosciutto

Dinner:

- Crispy Mustard-roasted Chicken

 - Chicken with Wild Mushrooms

 - Slow Roasted Filet of Beef with Bail Parmesan Mayonnaise

 - Mustard Marinated Flank-Steak

- Osso Buco

- Seared Scallops & Potato Celery Root Puree

 - Orecchiette with broccoli Rabe & Sausage

- Lobster Mac n' Cheese

- Straw & Hay with Gorgonzola

-Penne alla Vecchia Bettola

Vegetables:

-Orange-braised carrots & Parsnips

- Provencal Cherry Tomato Gratin

- Spinach with Feta & Pine Nuts

- Crispy English Potatoes

- Truffled Mashed Potatoes

- Balsamic-roasted Brussels Sprouts 

Desserts:

-Chocolate Cassis Cake

- Chocolate Peanut Butter Globs

-Chocolate Chunk Blondies

- Ultimate Pumpkin Pie with Rum Whipped Cream

- Perfect Pie Crust

- Mexican Hot Chocolate

- Cinnamon Bake Doughnuts

And since Ina always gives great tips and tricks for hosting the perfect event I will try to include some of those as well.  

As you can see I have my work cut out for me and I think my New Year's Resolution this year will be anything but trying to lose weight!  

Toasting to a delicious 2013!