Setting A Socially-Distanced Table
I think it is safe to say that at this point, we are all just a liiiittle bit weary and worn down by embracing our innermost homebody. I am so thankful for the privilege of being able to safely quarantine at home, but, there are a few things I miss and quality time with friends is certainly one of them!
Over the past few weeks I’ve been thinking about the creative activities that do really fill up my tank, and one that I return to time and time again is hosting. I might not make the most lavish of dinners each night (rice bowls are in regular rotation, as well as Alison Roman’s Roasted Tomato and Anchovy Bucatini pasta), but I * love * to plan dinner parties. For me, hosting feels like one visual and culinary game of strategy, where the flowers, the wine, the meal and the music all need to come together in a curated but comfortable way. I won’t deny that I use a spreadsheet to plan out the meal preparation.
But, since I won’t be hosting any gatherings for 28 people anytime soon in this apartment (been there, done that), I’m looking for little moments to stretch my hosting muscles and get the entertaining juices flowing, even if I’m only setting the table for one. Here are some of the ways I’m elevating my dining game at home by dusting off some of the items I usually only use with guests, as well as some items I am eyeing for my collection.
BREAKFAST
If you’ve been following along on Instagram, you’ll know that I sing the praises of my Breville Barista Express every morning. Making a cappuccino at home is absolutely the highlight of my day - I’ve been using a roast from Ceremony Coffee in Baltimore, and am slowly but surely perfecting and refining my espresso pulls and milk frothing abilities during each attempt. I currently use some simple white cappuccino cups with saucers that I got on Amazon (similar here) but am eyeing these espresso cups, this chai cup, and this sephia cup and saucer. Also, obsessed with this “speckled party mug” from Sunday Shop. I love my coffee with whatever baked good is on hand - we’ve enjoyed a lot of banana bread, as well as these morning buns.
LUNCH
I’ve been making some pretty delicious lunch bowls lately, and this past week, I took my lunch to the corner park in our neighborhood. I’ve been enjoying the shallow salad bowl I have from Heath Ceramics; I also love this pure white option from Crate and Barrel and these blush bowls from Food 52. Hoping to add some pieces from East Fork Pottery to my collection as well! For the bowl, I start with a bed of rice, add some halved cherry tomatoes, diced avocado, a protein (usually chicken, sometimes bacon haha), a drizzle of olive oil, a squeeze of lime, and freshly ground salt and pepper. I also add refried beans or black beans, when I have them!
DINNER
I usually run in the evenings after work, and preparing a delicious, hearty meal at 8:30 PM isn’t always what I need, though I do love the nod to lazy and luxurious evening dinners in Spain. I’ve been dining off of this black plate, also from Heath Ceramics; I’m considering investing in a pasta-maker (more on that later), but if I don’t, I’ll probably add a few of these budget-friendly plates from Greystone Table or this speckled bowl to my cart. These Moroccan Spanish-Style Wine Glasses would also be a great add.
OTHER OCCASIONS
Rumor has it that DC has received more rain than Seattle this year, and I’m not surprised. When the sun is out, I try to spend as much time outside as I can! This past week, I received from hummus and pita from DC-based Little Sesame - their pita is sooooo soft and pillowly, I could actually nap on it. I took it to the corner park, poured out a glass of kombucha, and made a date of it with my friend Sarah! Socially-distanced, of course. I used some jars from my mason jar collection and these beautiful, fringe napkins from Anthro that were gifted to me last December (similar here). The Porter Glass is another good addition for your picnic arsenal, as well as a cute picnic basket. Be sure to throw in some sunscreen, an outdoor throw (love this one from Snowe in blue), a little cutting board for any extras (I got mine at Home Goods for $5), and a great bottle of wine.
In the spirit of full disclosure, I’ll also share that sometimes, all you want is a pan full of fried food with a glass of wine. It’s all about balance, y’all! Also, be sure to check out this article from the NY Times on hosting a safe picnic during quarantine.