My Sister's Grilled Pork Chops n' Peaches

My sister-in-law did it again.  She made another amazing meal.  She's quite the home chef herself.  Her talents are attributed to her fine dining and catering background as well as her family's long line of culinary talent.  She has the beat on the latest modern cuisine with a keen memory of tried and true family traditions.

She really outdid herself for our father's birthday.

I added in my baked beans by the request of my beloved new sister.  She was in charge of the well-balanced menu, so it was flattering that she had asked for one of my recipes to marry into the meal.

Here is the wonderful menu and photos:

Clockwise: Berkshire pork chop with Dijon sauce, grilled peach, grilled bratwurst with sauerkraut, green beans with Dijon and shallots, potato salad, baked beans, raspberry lemonade

Grilled Chops with Sister's Dijon Sauce

Peaches on the grill

The Spread

Our appetizer: my mom's Italian bruchetta dip, served in a beautiful set which was a gift from my new sister, (recipe coming soon)

Ina Garten's Avocado and Grapefruit Salad

I received Barefoot in Paris: Easy French Food You Can Make at Home for Christmas from my mother-in-law.  I had admired her vast cookbook collection including Garten's complete set.  This is my second Barefoot Contessa book she has given me.

I had never made French food.  I thought it was too complex for this fledgling kitchen cook.  To my delight I was surprised with how easy some of these recipes are.

The avocado salad was my first, and delicious attempt.  I love the ingredients separately, but,,,, together?  I never imagined what avocado and grapefruit would taste like - especially with Dijon!  I guessed that the avocado would taste good with a Dijon vinaigrette, but was a bit skeptical about Dijon on grapefruit.

To my surprise, it was delightful!  The tart and slightly sweet grapefruit tasted wonderful with the extra kick of the Dijon, and the avocado mellowed those sharp tastes with its creaminess.

Plus, it looks extremely elegant and it is ridiculously easy.  This salad will be quite a hit at your next brunch or dinner party.  Find some traditional French music on internet radio, or play the Amelie Soundtrackto really get you into the mood.