So Detta is a reader, a cat lover, a foodie, and Italian… what a combination. She very generously hosted us at her place for the most memorable birthday in my 35 (!) years.
But you don’t want to READ about it… you want to see… right?
She looks so sweet! But take a closer look… yes, those are SKULLS and crossbones on her apron LOL. Ricotta gnocchi at formation stage…
Janet poses proudly with her boursin cheese… stage one of her appy assemblage…
Here’s the finished product: boursin with sweet pepper topping, along with roasted garlic for spreading on crisps and crackers.
Meanwhile, the gnocchi poaches, and will be served with homemade pesto…
A pre-dinner party game gone awry… don’t ask…
A distinguished Nerida presents the gnocchi!
… while Janet vogues with the orange and red onion salad!
Our talented host shows off her main of ricotta gnocchi, grilled asparagus, baked tomatoes, and orange salad. Only water in that wine glass???
And Detta’s craaaazy cake creation: salted chocolate caramel ice cream cake! When I sent out pics to friends, some of them responded with ‘how was it?’ … are you KIDDING me? To re-state, this is salted chocolate caramel ice cream cake, folks!
Yawwwwwwwwweeeee!
the munching maven 
oh, I so did not expect that! It was a lovely dinner, though!
You Are a lucky woman, can’t believe that cake!
Wow! Gotta get some recipes to connect to this. Like that orange salad? Sweet pepper drizzle? and seriously – that cake !!!!
A belated Happy Birthday, dear Stacey! And a shout out to all the contributing chefs!