Southern Style Dinner Party

A casual atmosphere is ideal for a southern soiree. Float dogwood, magnolia, or another type of velvety white blossom in a bowl of water on the tabletop for simple style. Start with an elegant white or ivory tablecloth. Add a layer of cream-colored china and a nice set of silverware. Get a bit ec... Read More

Recipe from Sophisticated Entertaining by Jeanne Benedict. Absolut's Peppar Vodka is out of this world! This liquid pepper is my first choice for Bloody Marys, and to use as a marinade for any spicy dish. Read More

Recipe from Sophisticated Entertaining by Jeanne Benedict. Ms. Southern girl, Ruth Shure, has kindly shared another recipe from her Kentucky homeland for the book. I've spiked these velvety cheese grits with Chardonnay white wine putting a California spin on this heartland favorite. I recommend homi... Read More

Recipe from Sophisticated Entertaining by Jeanne Benedict. My fabulous gal pal Raye Dowell helped me out with this spicy greens recipe with me. "Greens" can be kale, mustard greens, or collard greens, among others. Most have a bitter taste, which is contrasted by a sweet or spicy flavoring in this... Read More

Recipe from Sophisticated Entertaining by Jeanne Benedict. Cobbler is so named for its appearance. Dough similar to that used for biscuits and sweet rolls, is crumbled over the surface of a fruit mixture. As the dessert bakes, the dough spreads and resembles a cobblestone street. Read More