Growing up in my home country of Haiti, Christmas means family, food, celebration, and lots of memories. Some of my fondest memories are about enjoying a big Christmas feast with my family (immediate and extended) after mass, sharing stories, and singing Christmas songs. This year, we weren't able to spend Christmas Day with our extended families. But, that doesn't mean we can't have a "smaller" version of a Christmas feast. My husband and children - surprisingly - love getting a special meal on holidays. I love to surprise them!
Today, I put together a meal that was simple - meaning that it didn't require hours and hours in the kitchen. But, it was delicious and extremely well-enjoyed by my family.
The main dish was a Horseradish-Crusted Steak Roulade (courtesy of the Food Newtork): http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/food-network-kitchens/horseradish-crusted-steak-roulade-recipe/index.html. I loved the different components of the dish - from the sauteed leeks and garlic (very fragrant), to the roasted red bell peppers (beautifully charred), to the rolling of the roulade (colorful and fun), and to the crust (packed with flavors!).
The making of the Steak Roulade
The side dishes consisted of my (most requested side dish) Cheesy Potato Au Gratin, with Roasted Pear. Celery Root, and Bacon. In addition to the potatoes, I also added my Roasted Sweet Multi-Colored Carrots, which brighten up the color and gives the meal an extra burst of freshness.
For the "grown-ups", my husband and I had a glass of Robert Mondavi's 2011 Cabernet Souvignon (Napa Valley, CA) from our Expression of the Vines Wine Club: http://www.robertmondaviwinery.com/Our-Wines/Napa-Valley-Wines/Cabernet-Sauvignon
We miss our extended families terribly! But, today was still a great day in the Warner household!
Here's wishing you and your family (near and far) a very Merry Christmas and an amazing and blessed 2014 year!
Until next time . . . Merry Christmas!
ZinAdel
