One of my favorite finds this season is the new Mint & Pistachio Pesto from Bella Cucina Artful Foods. The fresh flavor of garden mint is an immediate pick-me-up. I love the recipe suggestion given on the jar: "Mix 1 tablespoon of pesto with 1/4 cup of Greek yogurt." So quick and easy even I can do it! This mixture then makes a great dipping sauce for fresh sliced and salted cucumber. A very healthy alternative for chips and dip. Also use the dip for grilled lamb or chicken skewers at your next party. Sure to be a big hit.

It's party time! Have you been given the responsibility of hosting a wedding shower or luncheon event and been at a loss to create some over-the-top drama? I love this easy solution from Grace Ormonde Wedding Style Magazine for bringing the color theme off of the table and around the room.

Here you see a fun table cover made from cloth that can be purchased at your local fabric store. Why not pick up a few yards of coordinating solids, as done here, and a couple of rolls of matching ribbon?

 The oversized planters have been carefully covered, then wrapped and tied with ribbon. Not only does this give an added punch to the decor, but you can unwrap and use the planters in your home or garden afterwards.

This same technique could easily be done on a smaller scale for centerpiece vases or anything else you'd like to add color to for your party.