The Kitchen Impossible

Time Flies Fast....

2012-02-15T09:43:00.000-08:00

Here it is February 15th already !! How does time fly by so fast ??

(And a belated Valentines Day to all !!)

We have been crazy busy planning all kinds of exciting things since the beginning of the year.

One thing is for sure...there are alot of people in Love !

Our Wedding season is off and running, and the Weddings that are being planned are amazing !!

Monica Wallace & Brian Craig are planning a Scottish Wedding at the

Valley The Moon.

http://tucsonvalleyofthemoon.com/index.cfm?p=photos.htm#

Below are 3 pictures. 2 are from The Valley of The Moon, and one is a picture from Scotland. It's no wonder they choose this magical place to have their Scottish Wedding !

Did You Know The Valley Of The Moon Hosts Weddings And Special Events?

If you are interested in hosting your special event at The Valley Of The Moon contact them at

520-205-2983

A Scottish Wedding blessing

Mìle fàilte dhuit le d'bhréid,

Fad do ré gun robh thu slàn.

Móran làithean dhuit is sìth,

Le d'mhaitheas is le d'nì bhi fàs.

Translated as:

"A thousand welcomes to you with your marriage kerchief,

may you be healthy all your days.

May you be blessed with long life and peace,

may you grow old with goodness and with riches."

This is attributed to the Rev. Donald MacLeod, minister of Duirinish, Skye, Scotland c. 1760.

And Emily is planning an "Enchanted Garden Wedding" in her back yard. Some of the special details we are thinking about for this Wedding are these adorable container gardens, that can be used in the tablescapes.

And..how about lovely tables like these...how enchanting !!

and perhaps...mini sorbet wedding cakes like these ?

How refreshing would these be for a June Wedding in Tucson ?

Also on our Wedding Table is the "Casual Classy Wedding" we're in the planning stages of. At this eclectic Wedding, we'll be serving BBQ with Southern style coleslaw in Martini glasses, baked beans and cornbread, a creamy corn casserole, and for dessert - cheesecakes, sour cherry pie and double chocolate brownies with a salted caramel topping in jelly jars, like these:

Speaking of jars...that's been my newest obsession ! We just recently made chili with corn bread for a Super Bowl Party...so fun, easy - and delicious....
Just use your favorite chili recipe, ladle it into a mason jar, top it with corn bread mix dough and bake it in the oven in a water bath. While the chili is heating up, the corn bread bakes on top of it. You'll know it's done when a toothpick comes out clean.

That's my story for now...and I'm sticking to it.

Holiday Event Packages and Menus Are Ready !!!

2011-10-31T17:16:00.000-07:00

Are you planning a Holiday Event this year ? If so - we have just the thing for you !

Our Holiday Menus are here, and there's something for everyone !!!

Season’s Eatings…..

Creative Catering’s

Holiday Events Menus

info@tucsoncreativecatering.com

www.tucsoncreativecatering.com

520-690-0146

Creative Catering and Events Holiday Menu Packages

All Creative Catering Holiday Packages have a minimum order of 15,

however, all pricing below is based on groups of 50 or above.

Please add 10% for groups of 15-49.

Package prices are per person, and do not include any additional services (Delivery-Set-up-Pick-Up, Taxes, Servers, Bar, Rentals, Etc.)

Hor d’oeuvres Selections:

Glad Tidings:

Perfect For Afternoon Holiday Receptions

Pumpkin Fruit Dip with Gingerbread Cookie Dippers,

Cranberry Walnut Baked Brie in Puff Pastry with Assorted Crackers

Vertical Crudités Display with Hummus and Dill Dip

Assorted Holiday Cookies and Seasonal Mini Bar Cookies

$12.00 Per Person

The Dasher:

Perfect For Casual Office Parties

Assorted Cocktail Sandwiches

International Cheese Display with Assorted Crackers and Artisan Breads

Fresh Fruit Display

Swedish Meatballs

Deviled Eggs

Assorted Holiday Cookies and Bar Cookies

Holiday Punch

$14.00 Per Person

Holiday Spirits

This is the Favorite Upscale Choice for Home or Office

Fresh Fruit & International Cheese Display with Assorted Crackers

Bacon Wrapped Scallops

Cranberry Meatballs

Petite Cocktail Sandwiches with Roast Beef and Horseradish Sauce,

and Ham with Peach Chutney

Holiday Crostini with Turkey, Cranberry-Apple Compote & Havarti

Assorted Gourmet Mini Holiday Desserts

$22.00 Per Person

Trim The Tree

Perfect for Open Houses – Personal or Corporate

Mini Beef Wellington

Honey Ham on Mini Croissants with Cranberry Chutney

Stuffed Baby Potatoes

Crab & Swiss on Sourdough

Maple Walnut Baked Brie en Croute’ with Assorted Crackers & Ginger Snaps

Assorted Gourmet Mini Desserts

Hot Chocolate & Hot Apple Cider

$24.75 Per Person

Holiday Lunch Menus

Simple Pleasures

A Taste of The Holidays

Deli Meat Platter

Assorted Cheese Platter

Petite Rolls and Mini Croissants

Horseradish Sauce, Cranberry Spread and Peach Chutney

Holiday Berries & Bows Pasta Salad

Apple Cider & Ice Tea

Assorted Holiday Cookies

$10.25 Per Person

Gatherings

The favorite Seasonal Luncheon

Mixed Greens Salad with Trio of Dressings

Sliced Turkey Breast wrapped around our Home Made Stuffing

Mashed Potatoes and Turkey Gravy,

Cranberry Relish

Assorted Rolls with Butter

Apple Cider & Ice Tea

Assorted Holiday Bar Cookies

$11.75 Per Person

The Gangs All Here…

Perfect for that Holiday Office Luncheon

Mixed Greens Salad with Trio of Dressings

Baked Chicken Breast with Savory Herb Gravy

Cranberry Pecan Rice Pilaf

Assorted Rolls with Butter

Apple Cider & Ice Tea

Apple & Pumpkin Pie with Whipped Cream

$13.75 Per Person

Holiday Dinner Menus

These menus have all the classic fixings and seasonal trimmings that evoke all of our favorite Holiday Memories. Add your special personalization to the choices below. $14.95 Per Person

All menus include Assorted Rolls with Butter, an assortment of Holiday Cookies & Mini Holiday Bar Squares, Apple Cider & Ice Tea

It’s A Wonderful Life….

Salads

Please Choose One:

Winter Mixed Greens Salad with Craisins and Toasted Pecans

Holiday Mixed Greens Salad with Sliced Pears and Parmesan

Cranberry Walnut Quinoa Salad

Berries & Bows Holiday Pasta Salad

Entrees

Please Choose Two:

Roasted Sliced Turkey & Gravy with Cranberry Relish

Raspberry Chipotle Glazed Sliced Ham

Herb Roasted Chicken Breast

Pork Loin Stuffed with Apple Almond Stuffing and Cranberry Relish

Four Cheese Ravioli with Marinara Sauce

Festive Trimmings

Please Choose Two:

Mashed Potatoes

Roasted Red Potatoes

Baked Sweet Potato Casserole with Cranberries & Pecans

Savory Stuffing

Green Bean Casserole

Roasted Winter Vegetables

Glazed Baby Carrots

(Select Apple & pumpkin Pie with Whipped Cream for an additional $2.00 Per Person)

Craziness with the insane posse crew at Creative Catering

2011-10-20T12:44:00.000-07:00

We have been so busy over the last couple months it's amazing ! It's a good thing

we love our jobs !

Here are a few videos we've put together - and these are from just the last 2 weeks !
(click title to view)...

Tenant Appreciation Event

A Special Dinner with The U of A Basketball Team

And...
A Special Princess 1st Birthday Party

Theme Karaoke Nights & Fish Frys at The Red Fez Cafe & Lounge

2011-07-13T11:07:00.000-07:00

We've been having a blast over at The Red Fez Cafe and Lounge with our Theme Karaoke and Fish Fry Nights....this week will be a blast from the past too !!
The first Friday night in July, we did a 1950's theme night - Elvis and Marilyn were there (okay - we had pictures of them on the wall...), Bazooka Joe gum made an appearance on all the tables, poodle skirts, cat eye glasses, and sneakers were spotted on many of our friends. We be-booped our way through the night, and enjoyed 50's themed "Fonzie" Burgers, "Daddy O's" Malts, "Eve With A Lid On It" Apple Pie Ala Mode...and but of course our great Atlantic Cod Fish Baskets !

Last week, it was the 1960's California Girls and Beachboys Theme...fish nets, ski boards, pink flamingos and flip flops were spotted all over the place, and of course our featured special for the night was our "Eric Von Zipper" Fish Fry Basket, along with "Beach Party Bingo" Tuna Salad, and "Annette's & Frankie's" Pineapple Upside Down Cake.

This Friday (July 15th), we are going Woodstock Crazy...it's all about being there or being square, and our specials that night will be "Alice's Kitchen" Sloppy Joes with Onion Rings, "The Man's" Swedish Meatballs with Mashed Potatoes and Green Bean Casserole, and our awesome "Far Out" Chocolate Fondue River...Make sure to get your tie dyed shirt on, and you'll be eligible for discounts on our groovy food !!

Next week...it's going be a Party Hardy night with a trip back to the 80's...Our gnarly menu for this night will be a "Totally Cool" Taco Salad, a "Phat" Pizza with Ham & Pineapple, and our "Radical" Strawberry Shortcake....Hairbands of the world unite - and stop on over to The Red Fez Cafe & Lounge, 450 S. Tucson Blvd.

Last but not least, on July 29th, we're doing a "Christmas In July" theme night...Hopefully, just the thought of this will cool us all down ! Our menu specials will be "Good Tidings" Hot Turkey sandwiches with Mashed Potatoes and Cranberry Sauce, "Baby It's Warm Outside" Christmas Salad with Ham and Cranberry Vinagrette, and "Deck The Halls" Pumpkin Pie with Whipped Cream...Santa may just show up if you've been good girls and boys !

Every Friday night we've been having a blast - so come join us !
We're also taking reservations for Company Karoake Parties (reserved seating and discount menu tickets), and if you're looking for a place to have a birthday party - look no farther ! Parties of 15 or more will receive free Birthday Cake and Ice Cream, but...you must call in advance to reserve your tables (520-690-0146) !

Good Old Fashion Fish Fry...and...Karaoke too...Read all about it !!!

2011-06-16T12:30:00.000-07:00

Friday Fish Fry @ Sabbar Shrine Temple

Posted on
June 16, 2011

Sabbar Shrine Temple hosts a brand new family-friendly event you will want to know about. On Friday evenings you can enjoy a community-style fish fry. What’s even nicer is that you’ll have entertainment. Um, that would be entertainment provided by . . . you! After you’ve eaten dinner, they will throw open the stage area for some karaoke. Sing your little hearts out! Everyone is welcome.

The Fried Cod Basket costs $7.95 and comes with french fries and coleslaw. The combo basket of cod & shrimp with french fries and coleslaw runs $8.95, and the shrimp basket with shrimp, french fries and coleslaw is $9.95. Other menu items are available too.

The entire evening is family-friendly, including the karaoke, so pack everyone up and take them all over, ok? You can sing alone or in family groups. Just keep it reasonably clean.

Btw, I just happen to know that the Sabbar Shrine Temple kitchen is under new management, and I also know the wonderful people over at Creative Catering who are now preparing the food there. One thing I can pretty much guarantee . . . your food will be TERRIFIC. How do I know? Well, because I hired Creative Catering two years ago to cater a party at my home, and everyone raved about the food. So I hired them again this year. One more time, the food and presentation were excellent.

I think the Friday Fish Fry is a wonderful way to kick start your weekend. Why not give it a try?

Where: Sabbar Shrine Temple, 450 S. Tucson Blvd. Tucson, AZ 85716 (520) 624-2509

When: Friday evenings, 2011. The fish fry starts at 5:00 PM and the kitchen stays open until 8:30 PM. Karaoke begins at 7:00 PM

How much: The Fried Cod Basket is $7.95 comes with french fries and coleslaw. The combo basket of cod & shrimp with french fries and coleslaw is $8.95, and the shrimp basket with shrimp, french fries and coleslaw is $9.95…other menu items are available too.

–Posted by Hortense P. Tightwad

Wow !! Just gotta LOVE that Hortense P Tightwad !! Thanks sweetums !!

Our Lasso The Moon Pictures by Creative Catering Corporation

2011-06-09T10:43:00.000-07:00

click the link below to view the pics
Albums by Creative Catering Corporation

Lasso The Moon at The Marana Health Center

2011-06-09T10:32:00.000-07:00

WE DID IT !!!

The Multitudes turn out as The Marana Heath Center Lassoes the Moon.
May 21, 2011 MHC Healthcare commemorated the completion of the new Marana Health Center Main Clinic with a Grand Opening celebration and concert event. Creative Catering Corporation, a Tucson Catering and Event Planning service, provided all of the elements, from planning to preparation to presentation for the “Lasso the Moon” celebration.
The celebration unveiled the 74,656-square-foot, tri-level, state-of- the-art, primary care health facility. The historic grand opening event was named “Lasso the Moon” to help illustrate the accomplishment of opening the LEED-certified, silver-rated facility. The country-western theme was developed to reflect the rich, diverse culture of Marana and her surrounding communities, which boasts many families who have operated cotton farms for generations, a rich Hispanic community, and local rodeo champions. In keeping with the western theme, Creative Catering arranged for 8 Conestoga wagon buffet tables, a saloon entrance and split rail fencing that encompassed the dinning area and VIP lounge area, provided by Christie Spencer of Design Definitions.
The magnitude of such an event dictated the celebration be delivered on a grand scale. Providing a memorable experience where the importance of community health centers and the contribution to the economy and community was the driving force and focus behind the organizers and event planners of the event, Creative Catering of Tucson. Every step of the planning was taken into consideration and executed by Creative Catering; from design of the logo – with the assistance of MJ Jensen of IdeaMagic – to the "save the date" cards, invitations and RSVPs. Tables, chairs, linens, china, lighting and a 100'x100' oversized canopy were provided with the assistance of Brian Leeman of Prime Event Group. No detail was overlooked thanks to Mary Carter, Director of Special Projects for MHC Healthcare, and her amazing staff, committee and all the wonderful volunteers.
A private dinner and acoustic performance concert by Marana native and rising country star Troy Olsen was held for people who purchased tickets and event sponsors. Both the private dinner acoustic performance and Open Air concert for the general public, as well as the Private Dinner menu, Hors d'oeuvres and Bartending services were also arranged, provided for and executed by Tucson Caterer and Event Planner Creative Catering. Security and Bartending for both events were arranged by Creative Catering and provided by Wild West Security and Wild West Promotions with the help of Mark and Judy Cohen.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony and cocktail hour started at 5 p.m, with both Mayor Ed Honea and MHC Healthcare Chief Executive Officer Clarence Vatne addressed the attendees.
Marana Health Center is a network of clinics focused on serving the communities where their patients live. They promote and support accessible and affordable primary health care services for all individuals independent of socio-economic status, national origin, financial means or educational status. The new Marana Health Center campus located at 13395 N. Marana Main St., in downtown Marana.
Creative Catering is a 3 generational family run Tucson based catering company and event planner with 26 years experience that specializes in taking your event all the way from planning to presentation. For more information on how you can have Creative Catering cater & plan your next event call 520.690-0146 or visit them online at www.TucsonCreativeCatering.com

Troy Olsen coming to Marana Health Center Grand Opening !!!

2011-04-28T06:51:00.001-07:00

Marana Health Center to Celebrate Opening of New Main Clinic: May 21, 2011

MHC Healthcare will soon commemorate the completion of the new Marana Health Center Main Clinic. The May 21st event, Lasso the Moon will be staged on the developed grounds of the health center campus located in downtown Marana, at 13395 N. Marana Main Street, Marana, AZ 85653. The opening presentations and formal dinner will be held for a possible 500 attendees who purchase/sponsor tables at the formal dinner and private dinner concert. After the formal dinner, an open air country music concert will create an affordable venue for the general public to join in the celebration. The celebration will unveil the 74,656 square foot, tri-level, state-of- the-art, LEED certified silver rated primary care health facility. The historic grand opening event has been named “Lasso the Moon” to illustrate the accomplishment of opening the facility; the country western theme is intended to reflect the rich and diverse culture of the area. The Marana area boasts a community with many families who have operated cotton farms for generations, a rich Hispanic community, several local rodeo champions and a rising country star, Troy Olsen. For more information and to view the progress being made on the new health center, visit http://maranahealthcenter.org/news/new-facility-progress/

Congratulations Marana!

Creative Catering wins all categories at “Taste of Chocolate” - Carolyn's Community

2011-04-05T08:11:00.000-07:00

Creative Catering wins all categories at “Taste of Chocolate” - Carolyn's Community

Inside Tucson Business article....

2011-03-07T17:19:00.000-08:00

Check out our latest article featured in Inside Tucson Business....click on the share link
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Cara Mia Pinot Noir with Raspberry Truffle–now that’s what love is all about! - Pour Me Some Grapes

2011-02-15T07:47:00.000-08:00

We had a great time with Slow Foods and Catovinos on Sunday 2-13-2011 pairing chocolate and wine...some say it couldn't be done - boy did we prove "them" wrong !! Cara Mia Pinot Noir with Raspberry Truffle–now that’s what love is all about! - Pour Me Some Grapes

Red, White & Black Ball 2010

2011-01-21T09:59:00.000-08:00

So here it is the end of January, and I'm finally getting some pictures posted !! Wow - - life is crazy as a caterer !!

This event we did in Green Valley for the Performing Arts Center on October 30th. It's a fun event that we've been doing for quite a few years, and hope to continue !!

As you can see - we went with a Masquerade theme this year, I mean it was the day before Halloween - so - why not ??? - Our team had a blast putting this one together...

Here is the dynamics and menu of the event:

Red, White and Black Ball 2010 "The Masquerade"

Front Lobby:    Venetian Cecchetti Station:   Vegetarian Station of: Mediterranean Crostini Duo: Crostini topped with half olive Tapenade & half tomato-basil relish. Marinated Mushrooms. Roasted Red Peppers. Foccacia and Ciabatta Breads. Gourmet Olive Assortment. Salad On A Stick With Spray On Dressings

Front Lobby:    Hot Hor d'oeurve Station: Mozzarella Puffs with Dipping Sauce, Sun Dried Tomato Palmiers, Italian Sausage Cups

Intermezzo Station Set-Up in Hall: Fresh Fruit and International Cheeses accompanied by Assorted Crackers and Rustic Breads

Art Studio:    Venetian Carving Station with Italian Marinated Beef Tenderloin served with Brandy Cream Sauce and Assorted Rolls

Dolce Terminazioni (Sweet Endings) Station set up in Art Gallery: Chocolate River Station: Ameretto Dark Chocolate Fondue, White Chocolate Fondue and Milk Chocolate Fondue with Dipping Items of: Pirouettes, Mini Cream Puffs, Mini Cheesecakes, Almond Cookies, Strawberries and Brownie Bites

Check out the pictures by clicking on the link below...

Red, White & Black Ball 2010

Or click to view a Video of the event below...

Film Shoot...Day 2

2010-08-11T07:00:00.000-07:00

So this morning we only had to get up at 2:30 a.m. verses 1:30 a.m. yesterday morning...woo hoo for sleeping in late !
The crew we're working for is amazing !! Sooo nice - and appreciative - what a combination. It's not very often film crews are like that. Often they're demanding and prima donnas - but not this group !! (yeaaaaa)
Yesterday they filmed in Sonita - beautiful part of Az., if I do say so myself...
Our team met them at the hotel with breakfasts to go. Since it was an hour plus drive to get to the location, we provided them with egg, cheese and sausage croissants, bottled orange juice, and our tasty granola bars...which got rave reviews, AND they asked us for the recipe !
If anyone else would like an alternative to the pricey granola bars you buy in the grocery store - here's a much healthier, less expensive, home made granola bar recipe...

Creative Catering Granola Bars
3 Cups Rolled Oats
1 Cup Grated Coconut
1/4 Cup Wheat Germ
1/4 Cup Butter
1/4 cup Brown sugar
1/2 Cup Honey
1/2 Cup Peanut butter
1 Cup Raisins (Or Sesame Seeds/Sunflower Seeds or Chocolate Chips/Carob Chips or Craisins or Dried Cherries or...whatever you might want....).

Combine oats, coconut, wheat germ, and any nuts/seeds you may want, and toast in oven @ 325 degrees for approx. 25 minutes.
While the oats are getting toasty, combine butter, sugar and honey in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat until the butter is melted and the sugar is dissolved...stirring occasionally.
Remove from heat and add in the peanut butter till it is well incorporated.
Stir in toasted oat mixture and mix till combined. Add any other additinal items at this time, and then press firmly into 9" x 13" pan.
Bake at 350 degrees for 12-14 minutes.
Remove pan and let cool completely before cutting.
Cut into 16 pieces.
Will keep well in refrigerator for about a week (if they last that long...), or they can be frozen.
(We wrap them individually, but they will keep well unwrapped in a plastic storage container.)

For lunch, we served a chilled buffet with pasta salad, a selection of sandwiches on artisan breads, ciabatta and focaccia, as well as a refreshing fresh fruit salad. A nice cool, tasty lunch on the hot desert ranch in Sonita was very much welcomed by all.

The drive back from Sonita treated our out of town guests to a remarkable rainbow that spanned a remarkable arch, that touched down on both sides. Unfortunately, I only got to see pictures, cause here I am in the office....but...if I only would've been there - I'm thinking I would've been taking a side trip, trying to get that pot of gold !!!

Day 2 will be on the air base...and I'll share that journey in the next episode.

Imagination is more important than knowledge

2010-08-10T05:51:00.000-07:00

As Albert Einstein prophesied, The Ideation Nation will be a place where “Imagination is more important than knowledge.”, for example....
There was once a famous celebrity hairdresser who got a frantic call from a woman needing her hair styled immediately for an important gala that evening. The hairdresser rushed to the woman’s home, asked for a ribbon, and proceeded to create his masterpiece using only a brush and the ribbon. When the woman’s hair was finished 30 minutes later, she was dazzled beyond belief. “How much do I owe you?” she asked. “$2,000,” he replied. She was stunned: “That’s outrageous. I’m not going to pay $2,000 for a ribbon.” He looked at her coolly, gave the ribbon a tug, and watched his masterpiece instantly unravel into a shaggy mop of unruly curls and locks. “That’s fine,” he said. “The ribbon is free.”
Hmmmmm makes you think now doesn't it ? Ideas, we all have them - but how do we use them ?
We get to use our ideas on a regular basis here at Creative Catering - that's because we have great clients that give us free reign in designing their events. How much better can it get ?
We have a bunch of upcoming events that our clients gave us an idea, and we expanded on that, and came up with some amazing things - that's just how we roll !
The upcoming Spa event we have - with stations like the "Ying Yang Station", where we will be supplying shrimp shooters in our black appetizer tree, in the black and white vignette of the clients showroom. We will also be showcasing on their reception desk our ying yang platters overflowing with sweet pea quacamole, hummus and pita chips. Then there will be "The Zen Raising The Bar Station" which will consist of elevated tables for guests and behind those will be our action station of Sushi....there will be a "Revitalizing Station" with our twisted beef on asparagus spears and a horseradish aioli, and our chicken salad with grapes and pecans in mini bread bowls...of course there will be lots of other tantilizing food - but I can't let all the ideas out of the bag, now can I...you'll just have to wait to see the pictures when it's all said and done.
Then - we have a Wizard of Oz themed event coming up being held at the Tucson Zoo - needless to say, Ebay has been one of our favorite spots for shopping lately. I can now say that we have an amazing collection of Wizard of Oz collectibles...we have in the works a rainbow, guests will have to walk over with a vignette of bluebirds (because we all know somewhere over the rainbow...bluebirds sing !), a tornado guests will have to walk through to arrive in the land of Oz, where Dorothy, The Scarecrow, the Tinman and of course the Cowordly Lion will have have center stage in their own buffet spread. Guests will have to walk down the yellow brick road to arrive at the Emerald Palace to recieve the awards that will be handed out that night....and upon leaving, guests will be treated to the lollipop guilds candy buffet...Lions and Tigers and Bears OH MY !!
There's lots more on our plates - but I'm saving those for next time around...
So - if you have an idea for an upcoming event, please contact us...we love sharing our imagaination...and...the ribbon is free.

On another note - our dear daughter in law Candi Essenmacher just won the Tucson Icon contest here's the link for the winning night http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nECPPHjsVaY and here's an example of why she won http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nECPPHjsVaY We're sooo proud of her !!

We have been so busy this summer - it's been truly amazing !! Usually the dog days of Summer in Tucson are s-l-o-w ...but this year, not so much. We have truly been blessed with lots of loyal clients, and for that we're thankful ! We're excited that business is picking up with everything that's going on in the world, and of course we hope that this is a sign of things to come. We are playing it forward with good thoughts, and sending them out to all of you too !

Back to school lunch menu ideas

2010-07-30T13:37:00.000-07:00

Just wanting to assist with some creative fun ideas for school lunches - so here's what I've come up with...

Makes you want to go back to school again - at least for lunch !!

Image by the cute andersons via Flickr

Let kids help make their own lunches the night before with a "tortilla factory" set up.
Set out different types of toppings, and let them invent their own wrap...who says you can't play with your food ???

Here's some other creative ideas to serve up a fun lunch.

Banana Dog
This is the coolest lunch ever, not to mention the easiest, and will be the envy of your kids' classmates. If peanut butter is off limits at your child's school, use cream cheese as a spread instead.
Ingredients
1 hot dog bun (whole wheat, if possible)
1 tbsp. (15 mL) peanut butter (or cream cheese)
1 tbsp. (15 mL) strawberry or other jam (or honey, if preferred)
1 whole banana
raisins, shredded coconut or chopped peanuts
Cooking Instructions
Spread one inner surface of a split hot dog bun with peanut butter or cream cheese. Spread the other side with jam or honey. Wrap in plastic wrap and place in your child's lunch bag. Also, pack a whole banana (in the peel) and a small container of toppings, such as raisins, coconut, peanuts or whatever else you can think of.
At lunchtime, your child can peel the banana and place it in the bun, sprinkle on the toppings and eat.
Let the other kids drool. It's your lunch, kiddo, and you're the boss of it.

assembly required, but kids love tossing together all the fixings and are sure to enjoy this welcome break from PB&J.

Portable Taco Salad
Ingredients
2 cups shredded romaine or iceberg lettuce
1/4 cup chopped tomato
1/2 cup canned kidney or pinto beans, rinsed and drained
1/2 cup salsa
1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack or Cheddar cheese
1/4 cup sour cream (regular or low fat)
1 cup tortilla chips (regular or baked)
Instructions:
In a plastic container big enough to use as a bowl for the finished salad, toss together lettuce and tomato. In a small plastic container with a tight-fitting lid, stir together beans and salsa. Pack shredded cheese and sour cream in separate plastic containers. Finally, pack tortilla chips in a zip-top plastic bag.
OK, you've got all the components. Now what? At lunchtime, open the container of lettuce. Dump bean mixture on top, add a dollop of sour cream and sprinkle with shredded cheese. Finally, crumble tortilla chips on top and lunch is served!

Honor Flight

2010-07-28T17:45:00.000-07:00

As I was riding in to work earlier this week...listening to the radio, I realized I would be driving right by the location of a remote radio broadcast, and Honor Flight was there, raising funds to take World War II Veterans to see the World War II Memorial. Needless to say, I had to stop and check this organization out. I had heard commercials about what they were doing, and it's a good thing...in fact...it's a great thing !!

I thought about my Dad who is no longer with us, and I thought about all the times he would share with us the stories of World War II. Those men and women are one of the reasons this country is the amazing place it is today. Of course we donated what we could, and made a great connection with the person "manning" the efforts, and now, I'm proud to say, we will be providing lunch for the group that will be leaving out of Tucson in September...it is one small way we can help - but another small way for everyone to help is to go out to the Baskin Robbins listed below on July 29th from 4:00-10:00, for they will be doing a fundraiser for this group.

Baskin-Robbins · 741-1926 - 1655 W Valencia Rd Ste 101

Baskin-Robbins · 327-6451 - 2648 E Speedway Blvd

Baskin-Robbins · 882-7711 - 904 E University Blvd

Baskin-Robbins · 298-3110 - 7856 E Wrightstown Rd

Baskin-Robbins - Camio Seco and Broadway-Southeast side

Ice Cream and a fundraiser for a group that so deserves to be Honored !!

Also, there will be another fund raiser & live remote (104.1) at Chick Fil-A @ El Con ( Chick-fil-A at El Con - http://www.cfaelcon.com/ 3605 East Broadway Boulevard, Tucson - (520) 321-4232) on Friday July 30th from 6:00 till 10:00 am. If you stop by tell Barb & Jon that M.J. and Bill said Hi !!

My Dad: Peter Paul Wickins

Love ya...Miss you..

Watch over all those guys on the Honor Flight Dad !!!

http://www.honorflightnaz.org/

we will see what we will see...

2010-07-28T08:54:00.000-07:00

Today happens to be a pretty big day here in Tucson....SB 1070 is about to be ruled on. It's pretty darn scary that life as we all used to know it, has come to this - but, sadly enough, it has. Lets all hope that when today is over, there are some clarifications, and we will actually be safer and more secure then we are as I write this....

On another note, once again today, we have lots of wonderful food going out the door. It's a Robust Beef sandwich that is in the limelight today. Our Robust Beef is presented on a freshly made onion roll, hinged and covered with thinly sliced roast beef, topped with sliced radishes, red pepper, sprouts, red onion, pepper jcak cheese and served with a side of horseradish sauce....its not called Robust Beef for nothing !

Gotta run for now - off to a meeting with a most wonderful client...may - I soooo love my job !!!!

Ants on a Cupcake + Busy Bees

2010-07-27T18:10:00.000-07:00

Ants on a Cupcake + Busy Bees
Check this post out - it's awesome..and..too cute !!

First of Many

2010-07-26T17:23:00.000-07:00

Sharing is always a good thing - so we thought we would share what we do at Creative Catering, (or as we call it around here..."Kitchen Impossible" because it seems as if we're always doing amazing, impossible things for our dear clients !!). Don't get me wrong - this is a good thing ! We love the challenges-in fact that's what makes us tick. Always stretching ourselves, our imagainations and our resources is what makes our team love what we do.

Here is an example of a typical day. We have over a hundred bag lunches going out, a corporate employee lunch program we do Monday thru Friday, and corporate lunches going to 2 different sides of the world (or so it seems....one is actually waaaay eastside, the other is Sahuarita.)

And here is what our kitchen looks like on days like this...notice all the prep sheets...yikes...did I mention how small our kitchen is ?

So that's how we roll on any given day around Creative Catering...

We also want to share some other things on this blog - like some of our recipes.
This will be the first in a long line of recipes to come out of Creative Catering's "Kitchen Impossible".

As summer rages on here in the arid southwest we love to come up with tantalizing treats to keep the summer heat at bay. This wonderful paring of sweet & spicy has grown to be a staple here in southern Arizona. The key for this particular recipe is to slightly toast the pecans which releases extra flavor from the nuts.

Couscous Fruit Salad
Ingredients
* 1 1/2 c. Water
* 1/4 tsp Salt
* 1 c. Raw couscous
* 1/2 c. Fat free vanilla yogurt
* 1/2 tsp Grated lime peel
* 1 Tbsp. Lime juice
* 1 Tbsp. Honey
* 4 dsh Warm pepper sauce
* 1/2 c. Sliced celery,thinly
* 2 Tbsp. Sliced green onion
* 2 Tbsp. Broken pecans
* 2 x Peeled, minced kiwi
* 12 whole strawberries

Directions
* In small saucepan, combine water and salt. Bring to a boil. Remove from heat; immediately stir in couscous. Cover; let stand 5 min. Fluff couscous with a fork; and hold for 20 min until room temp. Meanwhile, in small bowl, combine all dressing ingredients; blend well. In medium bowl, combine celery, onions, pecans (pre-toasted in oven), kiwi, dressing and couscous; toss gently to coat. Serve immediately or possibly chill till serving time. To serve, scoop couscous mix onto plates. Decoratively arrange strawberries around couscous mix. If desire, garnish with sprigs of cilantro. 4 servings

Another light recipe for the summer is our Vegan Lettuce Wrap. Nice casual dinner to wrap up a Summer day in Tucson..

Vegan Lettuce Wraps

8-10 large lettuce leaves

2 broccoli stalks or around 7 florets

2 medium carrots

2 green onions

1 small handful fresh parsley

2 roma tomatoes ( or 1 beefsteak)

2 tablespoons capers or chopped green olives

2 cups crushed pistachios

1 cup crushed cashews

1/3 fresh red bell pepper

2 big stalks celery

1 cup chopped fresh mushroom

2 heads fresh lettuce - cored, and washed. Set aside...to use for wraps

Sauce:

1 tablespoon lime juice

1 tablespoon cilantro

1/2 cup sesame oil

1/4 cup rice wine vinegar

1 1/4 cup raw (turbinado)sugar

2 1/2 teaspoons sea salt

2 1/2 tablespoons minced garlic

2 teaspoons freshly cracked pepper

2 teaspoons onion powder

2 teaspoons coriander

2 tablespoons hot sauce, optional

2 tablespoons wasabi powder (optional)

Directions:

Chop all of the fresh ingredients (except lettuce) into fine bits. Add all of the sauce ingredients and toss together.Use the fresh, washed lettuce leaves as you would a tortilla for wrapping the filling.

So, that's what we've got for now...stay tuned - there will be more to come...
　

The Kitchen Impossible

Time Flies Fast....

Did You Know The Valley Of The Moon Hosts Weddings And Special Events?

If you are interested in hosting your special event at The Valley Of The Moon contact them at

520-205-2983

A Scottish Wedding blessing

Holiday Event Packages and Menus Are Ready !!!

Craziness with the insane posse crew at Creative Catering

Theme Karaoke Nights & Fish Frys at The Red Fez Cafe & Lounge

Good Old Fashion Fish Fry...and...Karaoke too...Read all about it !!!

Our Lasso The Moon Pictures by Creative Catering Corporation

Lasso The Moon at The Marana Health Center

Troy Olsen coming to Marana Health Center Grand Opening !!!

Creative Catering wins all categories at “Taste of Chocolate” - Carolyn's Community

Inside Tucson Business article....

Cara Mia Pinot Noir with Raspberry Truffle–now that’s what love is all about! - Pour Me Some Grapes

Red, White & Black Ball 2010

Film Shoot...Day 2

Imagination is more important than knowledge

Back to school lunch menu ideas

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Honor Flight

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Ants on a Cupcake + Busy Bees

First of Many