The Hospitality Table

Pineapples have been a symbol of hospitality since the 1700’s (at least in my area).  They were imported from the Caribbean to New Orleans and then transported up the Mississippi River.  Especially during the holidays if you tour the local antebellum homes you will see plenty of pineapples in the décor!

The centerpiece is actually a cookie jar that I found at the Trash to Treasure sale.  I used a mixture of faux flowers and real greenery.

I like how the crystal pitcher mimics the pineapple texture.

I found the wood chargers last week at Goodwill.  They are topped with square red plates (JCP), white salad (Pier One) and a wooden pineapple dish (Trash to Treasure).

The pineapple napkin rings were also a Trash to Treasure find from several years ago.  The napkins and tablecloth were originally from Target but I purchased them at Dirt Cheap for $3!  Yep, the tablecloth was $2 and the four napkins were $1.

 

The pretty flatware is from JCP.

The amber goblets were a yard sale find from several years ago.  The wine glasses are from the Dollar Tree.

I love how the amber glasses pick up the darker tone in the pineapple.

TIP OF THE WEEK:

Fresh ripe pineapples should have green, fresh-looking leaves in a small, compact crown, and a leaf should be easy to remove if fully ripe. Once again, the nose proves to be a powerful tool in determining ripeness.
The fruit should be plump, feel heavy and have a strong sweet, but not fermented, pineapple aroma. Coloring may be green or yellow-gold, depending on the variety. Feel the bottom. It should yield to medium pressure, have no indication of mold, and the eyes should be bright, shiny and flat. Avoid any that are dry or look old and wrinkly. Dark eyes, soft spots and yellowed leaves are all indicators of a pineapple way past its prime.

Once trimmed and cut, be sure the pineapple is covered in juice in an airtight container, refrigerate and use within five to seven days. Let the fruit return to room temperature before eating to improve flavor.  (from http://homecooking.about.com/od/foodstorage/a/pineapplestor.htm)

 

Thanks for stopping by!

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Let’s Dish @ Cuisine Kathleen

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Tablescape Thursday @ Between Naps on the Porch

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Tabletop Tuesday @ A Stroll Thru Life