Today’s dinner (and MAJOR giveaway) is not only an ode to the traditional, yet vibrant flavors of Spain, it’s a celebration of the Spanish laid-back approach to dining.  Let’s just say they know how to sit back, pour a glass or two of wine, nibble on some tapas and savor really great food.  And since I’m a big fan of all of those things, I decided it was due time I payed homage to the beautiful Iberian peninsula with a casual dinner spread and Spanish inspired menu. 

I tried my hand at two Spanish staples: a seafood paella and hearty spinach with chickpeas.  Both dishes I’ve enjoyed at restaurants for years, but have been nervous about recreating at home.  So to say I was thrilled and just a tad surprised at how simple they actually were to prepare is an understatement.  I’ll be sharing the recipes for my Seafood Paella and Espinacas con Garbanzos (Spinach & Chickpeas) tomorrow, but I’d be amiss to leave you hanging about the cheese plate.

I knew I had to have a cheese plate when planning this Spanish themed dinner, but I wanted to avoid what seems to be the current cheese plate trend of the “bigger-the-better.”  Yes, we all love cheese and all that accompanies it, but unless you’re throwing a full blown party, when entertaining for 10 guests or less, keep it on the small and simple.  The cheese plate is just something to nosh on before the main event.  You don’t want it to be so complex and filling because it runs the risk of taking away from the meal itself. 

So with that being said, I kept it simple with two Spanish cheeses (Manchego & Mahon), roasted red peppers, a mix of Spanish olives, marcona almonds, two different marmalades and two Spanish meats (Jamon Serrano & Salami).  I arranged it all on this Le Creuset Tray, which is part of a 2-piece casserole dish and tray.  The tray serves as the top of the casserole dish, so you can use them separately or together…genius!  

Speaking of Le Creuset, how wonderful is this cool Caribbean blue?!  I love Le Creuset, that’s all there is to it.  Cast-iron kitchenware is just one of those things you’ll have forever, and Le Creuset is my absolute favorite brand when it comes down to it.  When I saw this collection, I knew I had to have it.  I mean, by now you know my love affair with all things blue and white! See, when it comes to blue, I don’t discriminate.  I’ve found that all blues truly go together, and I knew this bold, island-blue would be the perfect pop to my table for nights like this.  Paired with a mix of other tabletop favorites, the Caribbean dinnerware collection infuses a welcoming, bright feel to any table…something I’ll be looking to do all year ’round.  Truly, MKR

P.S. Because Mondays are always better with giveaways, I’m so thrilled to announce our week-long giveaway today with your chance to score a 16-piece Le Creuset set in the color of your choice!  All the details are listed below in the widget, and I’d love to hear: what color would you choose?!  

a Rafflecopter giveaway