Martha Stewart Living, August 2003
Match the informality of a summer buffet with rustic serving dishes fashioned from clay flowerpots and saucers. Use brand-new terra-cotta, and wipe it with a damp cloth (doing the same for cleanup). Line flowerpots with tea towels to hold bread, buns, or biscuits; for saucers, use napkins or clean nontoxic leaves, and place cheeses or spreads on top. Firm and semifirm cheeses such as cheddar, chevre, and blue are good choices for outdoor entertaining -- they will keep a few hours and won't become runny in the sun.
What a cool way to dress your table with the unsuspecting serving pieces!!!
This is a neat idea. Funny how I don't think of simple things. Thank you.
The best way to wash your terracotta pots to get rid of grease is to put them in the dishwasher
And, then, when the party season is over - look at all the "new" pots and saucers you will have! I cannot wait to use this idea! Thanx Martha and the Gang!
I used this idea yesterday ... all the gals were blown away by the simplicity of the arrangement and I had a coordinated look for the very first time.
This is such a neat idea! I'm planning a backyard party in the next few weeks, and I will let you know how it goes. Thanks so much. I love it.
Jpeake
I have a terracotta wine cooler that you soak in water for an hour and then use to keep your wine cool. Perhaps you could do the same for cheeses to create a chilled platter using the saucers soaked in water. I might put a plastic layer over the saucer, hidden by a napkin or leaves, to stop any contamination.
What a neat idea. I shall go to my favorite $store today. Love this type of outdoor dining. Thanks
Great idea!! Much more rustic than the cheap plastic serveware that's out there, and just about the same price range. I LOVE this idea!