Culinary's "Concepts"

Now, I'm not usually one for gimmicky food presentation ideas, but this one was just TOO CUTE not to share.  Perfect for a child's birthday party, an office celebration, or a picnic, this dessert pretty much combines the 2 best sweets around--cookies and cupcakes!  Definitely try this one at home! 

Culinary Concepts is was honored when we were asked to cater the Asian Heritage Awards for the 2nd year in row, once again hosted aboard the USS Midway.   The event included entertainment by Japanese pop star Masumi, the Thai Classical Ballet and the Silk Road Dancers from San Diego, while Amy Chanphavong, Miss Asian America, welcomed guests and assisted on stage.

On deck, during the reception, Kenneth Nguyen, a local designer and hair stylist, showed off some of his avant garde fashions of snappy cocktail dresses made from trash bags, as he put it –“good for the environment.” Naruwan Taiko, a traditional drum group, called guests to dinner.  An exciting event for all in attendance!

Katey and Eric Teaser from Joe Park on Vimeo.

Looking for the perfect team builder event, and tired of the same old ropes course, scavenger hunt or trust games?  Look no further--because the Iron Chef Competition is where it's at!  Our client NRG treated their staff to a cooking competition last month that was soo much fun!  Culinary Concepts provided the produce and other grocery goods, coordination and equipment, but after that, teams were on their own to create their recipes.

A salsa competition pitted executives from across the nation against each other, and none other than our own Culinary expect Craig Martin was asked to be an honorary judge in the taste test (he GLADLY accepted!).  Please contact us if this interests you--it is really a great way to bring your staff together for a friendly (and delicious) competition!

The inside scoop from the experts at Moceri Produce:

• Berries:  Strawberries currently have great quality and fair prices.  Check out organic blackberries from Stehly Farms—outstanding! Prices will be higher on blueberries and raspberries this week. 
  
• Tomatoes: Cherry and grape tomatoes from Baja are showing very good quality and prices are reasonable. Heirloom tomatoes--scarce right now due to the cool weather, expect high prices for a limited time.
  
• Eat your Veggies!: All leafy greens are in good shape this week as weather has been mild.  Check out Romaine hearts, Green, red, and Napa cabbage, Bok Choy and celery—good quality and prices right now!
  
• Seasonal Specialty Items:  Sharlyn Melons are here--known for their sweet flavor and firm texture.  Mango Nectarines and Gold Velvet Apricots are some specialty stonefruit available now.  All colors of Figs are at the best prices they will be all year, take advantage while you can!  Chanterelles and Morels are rounding out the seasonal goods in the mushroom catergory!

• (Please Select One, or Both for an additional $1.25)
• Mixed Greens Salad with Shaved Carrots and Sesame Ginger Dressing
• Traditional Macaroni Salad with Celery, Hard-Boiled Egg, and a Light Mustard-Mayo Dressing
• Steamed Rice
• Pineapple Upside down Cake

• With Italian Sausage, Broccoli, Parmesan and Mozzarella Cheeses, in a Spicy Tomato Crème Sauce
• Assorted Rolls and Butter
• Mixed Greens Salad with Fresh Basil, Tomatoes and Cucumber
• Traditional Italian Tiramisu