Sunday, August 21, 2011

Gourmet Salmon and Scallop Seafood Recipes

Seafood is a favorite food that most people don’t get to eat every day and is a great idea for a special meal or party. Here are 2 gourmet seafood recipes you can prepare for your party, whether it is a baby shower, bridal party, or just a special dinner.

Seared Scallops on Baby Spinach with Lemon Vinaigrette

10 medium sized sea scallops
4 tbsp. butter
4 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil
Salt, to taste
Pepper, to taste

Heat a large skillet on medium high. Melt butter in pan and add olive oil. Salt and pepper both sides of the scallop. Lay scallops into the hot pan, searing until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes on each side. Set aside on paper towel to drain and cool.

For the salad and vinaigrette, you’ll need:

1 lb. fresh, baby spinach
1 lb. oyster mushrooms
Half cup roasted pumpkin seeds
2 tbsp. fresh squeezed lemon juice (do not use bottled juice)
1 tbsp. lemon rind
1 tsp. Dijon country mustard
One half tsp. garlic powder
One half tsp. kosher or sea salt
One fourth tsp. fresh ground pepper
One fourth cup extra virgin olive oil

Mix first six ingredients together well. Then, slowly drizzle in olive oil and whisk briskly to incorporate into a thick, yellow vinaigrette. To arrange the dish, toss baby spinach and oyster mushrooms together with the vinaigrette. Arrange in a small mound in the middle of the plate. Slice scallops in half and serve one or two seared side up. Scatter roasted pumpkin seeds over the top and serve.

Roasted and Broiled Salmon with Mango Coulis

2 lbs. fresh Atlantic or Sockeye salmon, cut into 1 inch filets
2 lemons, juiced and zested
Seasoned salt (McCormick’s, Lawry’s, Aunt Cora’s, etc.)
8 cloves garlic, peeled and chopped finely
8-10 tsp. Gulden’s Spicy Mustard
2 cups dried plain bread crumbs
Butter or Olive Oil flavored cooking spray
Parchment paper

Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Remove any pin bones from salmon filets. Zest lemons and set aside. Place salmon in a dish and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top. Let it marinade for 30-45 minutes. Place salmon on a baking sheet covered with parchment paper and cooking spray. Sprinkle top with generous amount of seasoning salt. Then, spread one teaspoon of spicy brown mustard over the top and smooth out with a knife. Toss fresh garlic over the mustard and then cover with one fourth cup of dried plain bread crumbs. Repeat for all pieces of salmon. Carefully and slowly spray the top of the bread crumbs with a layer of cooking spray. Bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes. Then, broil for 5-10 minutes or until the top is golden brown.

Mango Coulis

1 ripe mango, peeled and cut into cubes
1 tbsp. fresh lemon juice
1 tbsp. honey
Half a cup orange juice
One fourth tsp. ground cinnamon
One fourth tsp. ground allspice
One fourth tsp. ground nutmeg
One eighth tsp. cayenne pepper (more or less, depending on how much heat you want)

Blend all ingredients together in a food processor until smooth. Spoon onto plate and place cooked salmon on top. Add a side of mashed potatoes to finish off the dish. These two dishes will be a sure hit, whether you are hosting a party, a formal event, or just making a special dinner.




Criss White is a professional writer that writes about food and other party planning topics like baby shower recipes and other baby shower ideas. Criss enjoys hosting parties and cooking when not writing.

Popular Cartoon Character Baby Shower Themes

Welcome back to childhood! A cartoon character baby shower theme will amuse everyone and will create a very special sentiment. Cartoons can bring back memories and happy childhood moments that every guest will enjoy.

Using a certain character as a baby shower main theme is easier than selecting some other. Decorations, tableware and activities have been created on the basis of animated movies and their protagonists.

When deciding on a cartoon-themed baby shower, you will have to think about several aspects. The gender of the baby can help you determine the most appropriate theme. You can also consult the mom-to-be about her most favorite cartoon characters.

The availability of party supplies is another important aspect to consider. You may want to choose cartoon characters that are popular and depicted in parties relatively often. Otherwise, you will have to make some decorations yourself – a process that is fun but rather time consuming.

This article lists some of the most popular cartoon characters that can become the focus of the baby shower theme.

Disney Princesses
Disney princesses are living a life of their own. Girls love them and want to be pampered in the very same way.

Holding a princess-themed baby shower will be very easy. Party stores offer various types of decorations and you can discover tableware, napkins and activities associated to Disney princesses.

This theme is girly, delicate and beautiful. You can use pink, lace and ornate curtains to turn the venue into a palace.

101 Dalmatians
The cute puppies from 101 Dalmatians will help you create a beautiful and very fun baby shower party.

Spots need to be everywhere. Have spotted tablecloths, plates, banners and balloons. You will find appropriate party supplies in nearly any store. Most people love 101 Dalmatians, the book and the cartoon.

Girls love puppies. The theme will be very appropriate for an all-female gathering.

Tweety Bird
Tweety Bird is cute, clever and fun. How about organizing a Tweety-themed baby shower for the mom-to-be?

Yellow should be the predominant color. Holding the baby shower in a garden will also be fun. Tweety-themed baby showers will remind people of spring, new beginning and the beauty of nature.

Winnie the Pooh
Winnie the Pooh is cute and fun. So many generations have grown up with the image of the fun and slightly naïve bear in mind. It would be difficult for anyone to keep from falling in love with Winnie the Pooh.

Various types of party decorations are available and your theme will be charming, cute and suitable for both a baby girl and a baby boy.

Dr Seuss Characters
Doctor Seuss characters are so unique and popular that you will have fun holding a party that utilizes the image of Horton, The Cat or The Grinch.

Each Doctor Seuss character has been brought to life by this amazing person. A number of movies and cartoons were made, following the plots of the books. Doctor Seuss is an important aspect of everyone’s childhood. Have the baby shower focusing on his books.





Criss White writes about babies and party topics and is a fan of Dr Seuss. To get some planning tips for a dr seuss baby shower and ideas for dr seuss baby shower games, visit Criss's website.

The Most Popular Doctor Seuss Stories

Doctor Seuss is such a famous writer that it would be difficult to pick out his most popular books. He has published a total of 46 books, all of which entice generation after generation of children.

Preferences are something individual and each person has a favorite Doctor Seuss story. This article lists some of the most popular books by the author that have affected literature and have made a long-lasting impression.

The Cat in the Hat
This is the first Doctor Seuss book that introduced the character of The Cat. Children love The Cat, its fun tricks and the overall atmosphere that this fun protagonist manages to create. The Cat is mostly recognized for the exceptionally tall hat that features red and white stripe decorations.

The book was published in 1957 and is a children’s classic till present day. On a rainy day, a brother and a sister get introduced to The Cat, who tries to amuse the little ones while their mom is away.

Unsurprisingly, more than 11 million copies of this Doctor Seuss story have been sold.

Horton Hears a Who
Horton Hears a Who was published back in 1954 and is the second Dr Seuss book to have the cute elephant as its protagonist.

The plot tells the story of the elephant Horton who one day hears speech from a spec of dust. This spec of dust happens to be a microscopic planet inhabited by little Whos. A cartoon based on the book was recently created.

One of the most important phrases from the book is “A person’s a person, no matter how small.”

Green Eggs and Ham
This happens to be the best-selling Dr Seuss book. Green Eggs and Ham was published in August 1960.

Two characters have a dialogue and this is how the entire book unfolds. It contains no narrative. A character named Sam tries to convince another character that lacks a name to try a meal consisting of green eggs and ham.

Green Eggs and Ham is suitable for very young children, since the book contains simple words. This is the fourth best-selling children’s book of all time and it certainly will be an amazing baby shower gift.

The Lorax
The Lorax came into existence in 1971. The originality of the characters is one aspect that makes the book unique and typical for Dr Seuss.

This book speaks about nature, its abundance and diversity. A movie was created following the book’s plot. The Lorax lead to some controversy since a number of people consider it to be unfairly critical of the logging industry.

How the Grinch Stole Christmas
How the Grinch Stole Christmas is so popular that the book needs no detailed introduction. Audiences across the globe love the story and it is equally attractive to both children and grownups.

Dr Seuss himself created the original book illustrations. How the Grinch Stole Christmas was published in 1957.

The Grinch is a very angry and bitter character. This character does everything possible to spoil everyone’s fun by stealing Christmas gifts and meals. Yet, Christmas comes and the Grinch learns that the holiday is more than mere objects.






Criss White writes about babies and party topics and is a fan of Dr Seuss. To get some planning tips for a dr seuss baby shower and ideas for dr seuss baby shower games, visit Criss's website.

The Hello Kitty Story: How Hello Kitty Became so Popular

Hello Kitty is the most famous character created by Japanese company Sanrio. It was born in Tokyo in 1974 to become a worldwide favorite very fast.

In the beginning, Hello Kitty was to be called Kitty White, as one of the kittens described in Through the Looking-Glass. The name was chosen as English literature became very popular in Japan at the time. This proposal was turned down, however.

Hello Kitty is a stylized female kitten that lives and has fun in London. One intriguing fact is that Hello Kitty lacks a mouth. This was done on purpose – the lack of mouth lets people project their emotions onto the character.

The first product featuring the Hello Kitty image was a small and very inexpensive vinyl purse. Today, Hello Kitty products generate about 500 million dollars annual profit.

Other characters live in the world of Hello Kitty. These characters include family and numerous friends. In 2004, Hello Kitty got her pets – a kitty and a hamster. Hello Kitty’s father is called George White and her mom is Mary. Hello Kitty has a sister named Mimmy, who happens to be the character’s best friend.

The number of market products carrying the image of Hello Kitty is large. This character has become tremendously popular in the US. Initially, Hello Kitty products targeted young girls but today the kitten has appealed to fans worldwide and regardless of age.

Hello Kitty decorates memorabilia, foods, clothes, cosmetic products, computers and even airplanes. Celebrities have endorsed Hello Kitty, as well. Mariah Carey, Cameron Diaz, Paris Hilton and various other stars have worn Hello Kitty outfits.

In Japan, Hello Kitty has affected nearly every aspect of life. Teens and adults alike fall in love with the childish, sweet image of the kitten. All kinds of outfits, including Hello Kitty wedding dresses are available.

MasterCard features Hello Kitty on its debit cards since 2004. The card is dedicated to the needs of young girls who are learning how to make such financial transactions.

Hello Kitty video games and anime movies have been created, as well. The earliest cartoon series featuring the character came into existence in 1991. The production was cooperation between the USA and Japan.

Various famous designers have used the Hello Kitty image and have been inspired by the cute Japanese kitten. Victoria Couture’s models wore Hello Kitty masks during a 2007 fashion review.

The little white kitten is a cultural phenomenon. In 2007, policemen in Taiwan, who had committed some kind of minor violation became obliged to wear a Hello Kitty symbol for several days.

Coins carrying the Hello Kitty image have been minted, as well. The price of a single Hello Kitty silver coin can reach up to 1100 dollars.

A Hello Kitty dream wedding was held in Hong Kong in February 2007. The wedding took place in Hong Kong’s railway. The train that transported the happy couple came with very special decorations, as well.

Even today, the Hello Kitty craze is continuing. You can discover dozens of objects, including outfits, baby shower party decorations and gifts, video games and other accessories. Hello Kitty remains a tremendously popular accessory for both children and adults.






Criss White writes about babies and party topics and is a Hello Kitty fan. Check out Criss's article on hosting a hello kitty baby shower on Criss's website about baby shower ideas.

When are Poems Useful in Real Life?

Poetry sounds great and romantic, yet it appears to be a somehow archaic way of expressing thoughts and emotions. Many people believe that poetry can no longer be used in real life. It was something great during Shakespeare’s age but today’s busy and hectic world has left no room for poetry.

The truth about poetry is that it adds something extra special to everyday occurrences, parties and special moments. Verses can be easily incorporated in real life activities. These lines will be even more special, if you have attempted writing on your own.

Does it sound impossible to weave poetry into real life? Read on to find out when it can be used and how it will add a bit of sparkle to a simple, routine day.

When You Fall in Love
Love and poetry go hand in hand. Classic love poems can turn into the most romantic and beautiful ways to express sentiments and to reveal emotions. You can have a poem written on a card or recited to a favorite person.

Love poems can also be used when proposing to someone. Lovers are poets by heart and they become very sensitive to such gentle messages.

Many people start writing poems when they fall in love. Though these verses are very often far from literature masterpieces, they have the power to move deeply a lover. If you want to make a romantic evening extra special, you should have a poem card written for the person that you love.

When You Want to Make Someone Feel Extra Special
Taking the time to write a poem or to discover a beautiful verse for someone will make that person feel extra special.

You can use poems to improve the mood of someone or to show that person your love and appreciation. It does not have to be presented in any special way. A poem sent via e-mail will be just as effective as the poem written on a card.

Use poems to make loved ones feel better. These can be sent or written for no occasion whatsoever.

Setting the Mood and Decorating a Home
Poem posters or framed words of wisdom can be used to decorate your home and to set the mood in each room.

Some words of wisdom or beautiful verses can be written in a beautiful manner and framed to turn into decorations. These poems show what you believe in and how you feel. They will affect the energy and ambiance in your own home.

The manner in which the poem is written and framed can turn the poster into a wonderful accessory that makes your home look even better.

Making People Laugh
Funny poems can make people laugh. Use those as jokes and in order to become the heart and soul of the company.

Poems can be easily turned into something hilarious and enjoyable. Naïve rhymes or little clever verses will get people rolling on the floor with laughter. If you want to make others feel happy and amused, you should begin looking for and memorizing funny poems.






Criss White writes about babies and writing topics like new baby poems and other baby shower ideas. Criss enjoys writing poetry for fun.

Ways to Show Thanks in Different Countries

You love to travel and you enjoy getting to learn about new places, people and cultures. Travelers have to first learn something about the respective traditions and language of the country, in order to behave adequately.

Learning how to say Thank You is very important. This is one of the firs things you will need to get familiar with.

Apart from the simple words, many cultures have specific ways in which gratitude is expressed. It could be a ritual or a facial expression that makes the statement sincere. This is what you will have to know about saying thank you in different countries.

Master the phrase in several basic languages. The English ‘thank you’ will be accepted and understood in many countries but it will also be wise to know how to express your gratitude in Spanish, German, French, Arabic and Russian. These languages increase your chances of being understood.

Try to get the phrase from a local person. Pronunciation and the right gestures will help you do it right. Practice and ask people to correct you, in case you are making a mistake with the phrase.

Ask about any accompanying rituals or the appropriate body language. Body language differs across countries and the manner in which you move your arms or shake your head could be misunderstood.

You will have to know how to thank someone who has offered you a helping hand or who has invited you to a party – a birthday, a baby shower or an anniversary. Inquire about the appropriate ways to attend a party in the respective country. Knowing habits and traditions will be very useful.

The German word for thank you is Danke. Vielen Dank is the expression used to say that you are very thankful. The French word is an easy one – Merci. It is also understood and utilized in many European countries.

In Spain and Spanish-speaking countries you will use the word Gracias. Muchas Gracias should be said when you are very thankful.

The Arabic word for thank you is Shoukran. You can utilize that word in both Asian and African Arab countries.

Sposibo expresses gratitude in Russia. If you are exceptionally thankful, you can say Sposibo Bolshoie.

Certain countries have their thank you rituals and specifics. Being unaware of these will make it difficult for you to overcome the culture shock and to get accepted. This is true of countries that have cultures much different from your own.

You have probably heard the Japanese word for thank you. It is Arigato. The problem, however, is that this word cannot be used with everyone. You cannot address superiors (like teachers, older people and officials) and bosses in this way. When talking to such people, you will have to say Domo Arigato Gozaimasu or simply Domo.

Learning the specifics of cultures will be fun and very useful. You will have to make some effort, especially if you plan to spend more time in the specific place. You should never be afraid to ask. Locals will be glad to offer a helping hand and to get you acquainted with traditions and language.




Criss White writes about party and etiquette topics like baby shower thank you poems for various websites, including Baby Shower Ideas. Criss enjoys travel and is knowledgable about etiquette and foreign cultures.

The Five Essential Components of the Perfect Invitation

What is a perfect party invitation? It is witty, coming with beautiful visuals and containing all of the essential information that guests need. These descriptions make it sound very simple and easy to make a perfect party invite.

Invitation writing can be difficult, especially if you want to come up with something original and fun. The visuals, the tone and the manner in which the invitation relates to the party theme will all play a role.

Here are the five essential components of the perfect invitation. Each one of them is important and contributing to the overall appearance and attractiveness of the invitation.

Party Invitation Paper
Paper affects your invitation in two ways – its color and its texture will both make a statement. Selecting simple white paper will make your invitation no different then any other written message that people get.

If you want to have unique invitations, you should pick interesting paper. It needs to be thicker so that the invitation remains intact. A specific color or a texture will also make your card attention grabbing.

Refrain from overdoing it. If you rely on paper texture, you should minimize the use of graphic elements. To impress, you should also get the invitation cut in a specific shape that helps communicate the party theme.

Fonts
Font selection plays a role, as well.

Try to have only two or three fonts used throughout the invitation. Get them to come from the same font family or to resemble each other.

Decorative fonts should be used for headings or small highlights. The essential information needs to be easy to read and to comprehend.

Visuals
Visuals enhance the written message. They will also set the tone. Use visuals wisely and sparingly.

Decide whether graphics or text will have more value. The leading visuals should be one. It can appear on the front of the invite or it can accompany the text. Invitations can be black and white, featuring a single color or multi-colored. All of these options have the potential to look attractive.

Poems and Verses
Successful invitations have a catchy phrase, quote or poem added to them. This creative and fun element explains what the party is all about.

You can come up with a catchy phrase for nearly any occasion – a birthday party, a baby shower, an engagement or an anniversary. Instead of searching for poems online, you can try writing your own.

Text
The text of the invitation provides all of the essential and informative details.

Make sure that the invitation states what the party is all about. Provide information about the date, venue, dress code and most appropriate gifts. It will also be wise to include directions and specifics about the activities that guests could be expecting.

Creating the perfect party invitation is far from difficult, as long as you know what elements need to be put together. Experiment and trust your intuition. If something looks wrong, you should probably try to change it.

Remember that discovering the balance between creative elements and information is essential. The two should work together to create the character of the invitation. One overpowering element will ruin the entire idea.




Criss White writes about babies and party topics like baby shower invitation poems and other baby shower ideas. Criss enjoys making food and hosting parties when not writing.