Appetizers: Last minute meal ideas to celebrate mom

Appetizers

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May 6, 2011

Last minute meal ideas to celebrate mom

For those who don't want to leave the comfort of their home on Mother's Day, here are some ideas and recipes that'll help create the perfect celebration for mom Sunday.

(And for those who do want to venture out, click here to read our Things to Do blog post on Mother's Day events in the region.)

Brunch and Mother's Day seem to be synonymous, but don't torture mom with burned toast that the kids made. Layer yogurt, granola and fresh berries in a see-through cup or bowl to make an instant, beautiful parfait. Serve with pastries, such as this recipe for fruit and chocolate scones. A fresh cup of coffee - served in the lovely china that mom rarely uses - is all you need to complete the meal.

Intimidated by the thought of preparing an entire lunch for mom? Don't be. Whip up a homemade dessert like this lemon honey triple layer cake and procure the rest of the lunch or dinner from your local delicatessen. Just grab three types of prepared salads (think chicken salad, three-bean salad, pasta salad etc), some fresh bread and some sparkling water or wine. Click here to get the cake recipe.

Looking for an easy, light dinner? Transport her to France with a backyard Parisian-inspired picnic. Head to the farmer's market or gourmet cheese section of your local store and pick up a variety of cheese (offer an assortment in odd numbers and arrange from mildest to strongest). Don't be afraid to ask the cheesemonger for help. Slice some crispy, fresh baguette and arrange crackers to serve alongside the cheeses. Add berries, grapes and olives. For dessert, serve chocolates and French macarons. And of course, don't forget the wine or Champagne.

Happy Mother's Day and Bon Appetit!

Photo credit: AP

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