Weekend Mode: Moveable Feast
Valentine's Day or not, you deserve something delicious
Hello, Gorgeous! And Happy Galentine’s Day!
The best laid plans and all that... I’ve been working on a mountain of Valentine’s Day content but a family situation meant that I had to put it on the back burner for now. That said, a pal told me that we’re now celebrating “Valentine’s Season,” and as someone who celebrates their own birthday whenever possible, I fully approve. So please keep an eye out for more loved up content in the coming days. For now though, here are some edible delights for you or someone you love. But probably for you, right?
Heart-healthy salmon
One of the nicest gift boxes I’ve ever received consisted of just one thing- salmon. But it was wild caught Alaskan salmon, which elevates the taste — impossibly non-fishy in both smell and flavor. The box itself was beautifully illustrated and each piece was lovingly wrapped, sealed and frozen. And the taste? Truly of the best I’ve ever indulged in. You can choose different fishy treats (About $189, wildalaskancompany.com).
Related: I can’t believe this article I wrote for Parade back in 2017, about the female fisherman of Alaska is to date one of the most popular articles I’ve ever written.
the art of charcuterie
I mean let’s admit it, organizing tiny pieces of cheese, crackers and other artfully arranged bits and bites requires a special kind of skill. I have mad skills but lack those. The Art of Charcuterie Bundle from True Story Foods. This includes two packages of uncured Genoa Salame and two packages of Heritage Breed Prosciutto dry-aged for up to 10 months in the Pocono Mountains and cured by a salami facility with a history of over 100 years of Italian salami making! There’s also a super cute pig-shaped bamboo cutting board, and a copy of the book Graze: Inspiration for Small Plates and Meandering Meals, which will inspire the charcuterist in you (Yes. I know that’s not a word. Let’s make it one!). Meanwhile, I don’t eat meat, so my neighbor Mo got to check out the deliciousness on my behalf. He approved ($70, truestoryfoods.com).
The art of label design
While I know you’re not supposed to judge a book by its cover, I will admit to freely judging wine by the labels. La Posta Vineyards was founded by award-winning winemaker Laura Catena. And while I’m really impressed with the craftsmanship and taste of these wines, it’s the stunning art nouveau labels inspired by the art deco designs of the 1920s and 1930s, that really got me most.
Meanwhile, check these out:
La Posta Malbec Pizzella is a full-bodied Malbec with hints of black cherries, dark fruit, dark chocolate and baker’s spice. ($19, TotalWine.com )
La Posta Armando Bonarda is a lighter and fruitier wine produced in Argentina ($14, BuyWinesOnline).
Incidentally, these wines are perfect to drink now, or wait a few years for an even more full-bodied experience.
A celeb-worthy recipe kit
Giada De Laurentiis’ brand Giadzy makes the most beautiful and easy to use food boxes to whip up a dinner for you or your Valentine or Galentine. While the newest box is Spicy Pasta Alla Vodka Box, available with organic pasta or gluten-free pasta. I avoided the spice factor and tried the Pasta e Fagioli Box which is an easy way to make one of Italy’s most beloved comfort dishes. For some reason, I couldn’t get the pasta to cook up right though. Next time I’ll really boil the water first. Fun to note that the kit includes some Giadzy’s signature Italian Riviera Gold Olive Oil too! ($65 for the kit, $33 for the olive oil).
And that’s all for this Friday!
Are you a fan of Valentine’s Day or do you just skip it? ? Let’s meet in the comments to discuss!
Rachel, Your beauty concierge 💋
Quick note: I included some affiliate links and from time to time some sponsored products which means I might earn a small commission on sales made through these links, but I also throw in stuff I love just because. Prices are current at publish time.
Happy Galentine's Day Rachel xo