Anniversaries, Family, Chefs, Pasta, and Shrimp...they all go together, really.

1 year and a few months ago, Joel's parents celebrated their 40th Wedding Anniversary.  We lived in Chicago. They lived 13 hours away in Lancaster. We knew it would be a little difficult to throw them their much deserved party. 

So, we decided to hire a couple of chefs to cook them dinner. Except the chefs were busy. Very busy. So busy it took the chefs until tonight to arrive at Joel's parents door and cook them dinner. 


These were not just any chefs, these chefs were my sister and her boyfriend. 

We heard Joel's parents had a good laugh when they saw these familiar faces at their door tonight when they thought a strange, professional chef was to arrive instead. They even invited them to eat dinner at their table.


Thank you Will & Julie for showing off your great cooking skills tonight!


In case you're curious about the main dish tonight, you'll need to make this recipe. It is pretty close to heaven on earth. 

Engagement Scampi

 (thank you Eat Live Run)

1.5 tbsp olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

about 3/4 pound of large shrimp

1 tbsp chives

1/4 cup white wine

1/2 stick butter, cut into small chunks

1 tbsp lemon juice

pinch of red pepper

1 tbsp chopped parsley

3 slices thick Italian bread, toasted and kept warm in the oven

6 ounces angel hair pasta, cooked (2 ounces per person)

1. heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and saute for a few seconds

2. Raise the heat to high and add the shrimp. Toss until seared on all sides and bright pink. Remove shrimp and set aside.

3. Stir in the chives, wine, butter, lemon and red pepper. Boil until the sauce is reduced by half. Stir in the parsley and the shrimp again and heat through.

4. Toss the pasta with a bit more olive oil (to coat) and divide among 3 plates, along with a slice of bread. Put the shrimp on top of the pasta/bread and serve with a lemon wedge.

You'll want to be sure to have your favorite wine nearby to enjoy with this meal.