Palmabella's Passions

We had a wonderful evening with our neighbors, Diana and Walt, and another couple, Cindy and Don at their home one street behind us. Appetizers included spicy pecans (recipe below), endive with blue cheese spread and bruschetta with mozzarella, tomatoes and basil.

Dinner was fabulous! Walt did his annual magic with a grilled, butterflied leg of lamb. His marinade is really to die for, and I have no idea how he makes it. I only know it has become an annual event! We also had spinach salad with strawberries and pecans, asparagus, and a bulgar salad. YUM!

Dessert was also great. Diana made a light and fluffy lemon souffle. She topped it with fresh raspberries, and a raspberry puree. It was a perfect ending to a delicious dinner.

Here are Diana and Brad:

Cindy and Don

and Palma and Walt

The spiced pecans Diana served were so addictive, I had to make some the next morning! They are fabulous. I rarely use my cumin, but might have to stock up to make lots of these for the holidays.

Saralyn's Spiced Pecans

1 lb. pecan halves
6 T. butter
1 T. and 1 t. ground cumin
3/4 t. cayenne
1/4 c. sugar
3 t. salt

Preheat oven to 350
Place pecans in a bowl. Melt butter, and add cumin and cayenne. Pour over pecans. Add sugar and salt. Toss pecans well, and spread them in a large baking pan. Bake 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.