Table for Two by Alexander Armstrong I never go out on Valentine’s Day. Does my sweetheart consider me a miserly cynic? Happily, no. The truth of the matter is, I love to cook; and I know what my paramour enjoys. So I do all that I can to make the evening intimate and memorable, tending to the details I might otherwise overlook, and preparing my queen’s favorites elegantly and with incredible love. We both look forward to this sacred evening far from the madding crowd, when we can dine at our leisure, surrounded by candlelight, serenaded by music we’ve chosen just for the occasion. When I was contacted by author CJ Paul to submit my original recipes as the basis of a romantic — nay, seductive — cookbook, I was flabbergasted. I couldn’t imagine why anyone would be interested in my funny little recipe posts, and then it dawned on me — it’s not because of the ingredients I put into my
cooking; it’s because of the passion. And, of course, that most important component — love and respect for my dining companion. The result of CJ’s efforts, along with those of errant intern Jeff, is a compendium of 30 recipes designed to cause stirrings in the kitchen as well as the bedroom. CJ has shrewdly enlisted the services of a chic event planner to add some flair in the way of suggestions for creating ambience, even supplying links for music to cook to. Written with tongue-in-cheek humor and irreverence, it makes for a fabulous novelty gift for a friend or Valentine. If you’re coupled, you’ll enjoy sharing the epicurean experiences with your mate. If you’re single, following the book’s advice is a good way to catch a mate! Either way, you’re in for plenty of light-hearted smiles and some of my favorite food. Bon appétit, friends and lovers, and Happy Valentine’s Day! -34-
