Parisian Palette
Painting, Picnicking, and the Perfect Platter
With the Summer Olympics on the horizon, taking place in the iconic city of Paris, it's a perfect time to reflect on the unique benefits and global influence of this remarkable city. Paris holds a special place in my heart, as I had the incredible opportunity to live there for a month to study drawing and painting.
A Personal Journey Through Art and Culture
In the summer of 1998, I embarked on a month-long program through Parsons, which was a transformative experience. Each day was a blend of creativity and exploration. We spent our mornings drawing for three hours and our afternoons painting for another three. The program was designed to immerse us in the vibrant artistic culture of Paris, and it did not disappoint.
One of the most enriching aspects was our daily travels to different locations for each class. Equipped with a metro pass, we visited a wide variety of hotspots, from the bustling Spanish Quarter to the serene Luxembourg Gardens. Our hostel was conveniently located within walking distance of the magnificent Notre Dame, adding a touch of historical grandeur to our everyday routine.
The Magic of Paris in the Summer of 1998
The summer of 1998 was especially memorable not just because it was the year I turned 21, but also because Paris was alive with the excitement of the World Cup. France's victory brought the city to life with celebrations that seemed to spill over into every street and square. Being there for both the World Cup celebrations and Bastille Day was an unforgettable experience, filled with joy, unity, and a deep sense of national pride.
The Global Influence of Paris
Paris has always been a city of immense influence, impacting the world in numerous ways:
Artistic Legacy: Paris is synonymous with art. From the masterpieces housed in the Louvre to the modern works in the Centre Pompidou, the city is a beacon for artists and art lovers alike. The artistic movements that originated here, like Impressionism and Surrealism, have shaped the course of art history.
Fashion Capital: Known as the fashion capital of the world, Paris is home to haute couture and influential designers. The city's fashion weeks set global trends and are pivotal events in the industry.
Culinary Excellence: French cuisine is celebrated worldwide, and Paris is at its heart. The city's culinary traditions, from fine dining to charming patisseries, have a profound influence on global gastronomy.
Cultural Heritage: Paris is rich in cultural heritage, with landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, and the Champs-Élysées. These symbols of Parisian culture attract millions of visitors each year and are ingrained in the global consciousness.
Educational Hub: Paris boasts some of the world's most prestigious educational institutions, attracting students and scholars from around the globe. The city's academic influence extends into various fields, including art, science, and philosophy.
Paris is more than just a city; it's a symbol of creativity, beauty, and cultural richness. My time there was an invaluable chapter in my life, filled with artistic growth, cultural immersion, and unforgettable memories. As the world turns its attention to Paris for the Summer Olympics, it's a fitting moment to celebrate the city's enduring legacy and its profound impact on the world.
Savoring Paris: The Art of the Charcuterie Board
One of my favorite culinary delights during my time in Paris was indulging in charcuterie boards. These beautifully arranged platters of meats, cheeses, fruits, and nuts are not only a feast for the eyes but also offer various health benefits.
Creating Your Own Charcuterie Board
Creating a charcuterie board is an art in itself. Here's how you can craft your own Parisian-inspired charcuterie board:
Ingredients:
Cured Meats: Prosciutto, salami, chorizo, and pâté.
Cheeses: Brie, camembert, Roquefort, and Comté.
Fruits: Grapes, figs, apples, and dried apricots.
Nuts: Almonds, walnuts, and pistachios.
Accompaniments: Olives, cornichons, honey, and artisanal bread.
Instructions:
Select a Board: Choose a wooden or marble board as your base.
Arrange the Meats: Fold or roll the cured meats and place them around the board.
Add the Cheeses: Include a variety of textures and flavors. Pre-slice harder cheeses for easy access.
Incorporate Fruits: Add clusters of grapes, slices of apple, and figs for sweetness and color.
Scatter Nuts: Sprinkle nuts around the board for crunch.
Finish with Accompaniments: Add small bowls of olives, cornichons, honey, and slices of artisanal bread.
Health Benefits:
Protein and Healthy Fats: The cured meats and nuts provide essential proteins and healthy fats, promoting muscle health and satiety.
Calcium and Probiotics: Cheese is a great source of calcium, crucial for bone health, and many varieties contain probiotics, which support gut health.
Vitamins and Antioxidants: Fruits offer a wealth of vitamins and antioxidants, boosting the immune system and fighting inflammation.
Fiber: Accompaniments like olives and fruits contribute dietary fiber, aiding digestion.
Charcuterie boards are not only a nod to the Parisian way of life but also a balanced and delightful way to enjoy a variety of nutritious foods. A couple of years ago, I took a nutrition class where my professor frequently spoke about her travels and how making meals that remind you of those places can transport you there affordably. As I look back on my time in Paris, these boards remind me of the leisurely, indulgent meals that are such a quintessential part of French culture, and they offer a wonderful way to revisit the charm of Paris right from your own kitchen.
