Ballantyne Magazine covers news, events, real estate, restaurants, shopping, health, schools and business in the upscale Ballantyne Area of Charlotte, NC.
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BALLANTYNE | feature 42 BALLANTYNE MAGAZINE WINTER 2014-2015 The Campagnas say their Ardrey Commons group is reminiscent of the life many of us used to live — when the table was set, there wasn't takeout and people made time to sit down as a family at the dinner table. "This isn't about being a good cook," Sam says. "It's about the experience." It's also about "attempting to create something you have never made before and having fun in the process," he adds, noting that club members like trying new dishes. If the meal turns out — great. If it doesn't taste as expected, they carry on and enjoy the company of good friends. And he adds with a laugh, the best thing about a dinner club is — you don't have to leave a tip if you get bad service. SAVOR A PEAR PROSECCO COCKTAIL Founders of the Ardrey Commons Gourmet Club, the Campagnas always welcome guests with a specialty cocktail. They share the recipe for a pear prosecco cocktail, one of their favorites. 8 cardamom pods ½ cup water ½ cup sugar 1 cup pear nectar 1 teaspoon freshly squeezed lemon juice 1 750-milliliter bottle prosecco or cava, chilled Place cardamom pods in a sealed bag. Crush the pods with a rolling pin or the bottom of a heavy pan until all pods are open and black seeds are crushed. In a small saucepan over medium-high heat, bring crushed cardamom, water and sugar to boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 8 to 10 minutes until it becomes a syrup that easily coats a spoon. Return to medium-high heat and add the pear nectar to the syrup. Bring to a boil and remove from heat. Cover and let stand 30 minutes to infuse cardamom favor. Using a sieve, strain the pear juice into a small bowl or liquid measuring cup. Add lemon juice and refrigerate until cold, at least 30 minutes. To serve, fll Champagne glasses with 4 tablespoons of syrup and top with prosecco. Anticipating another enjoyable club dinner, the Campagnas share a moment together.