There’s something about being out on the ocean that makes everything taste better. Maybe it’s the exhilarating sense of freedom or the pure, clean air and gentle breezes. Perhaps it’s the quiet rhythm of the waves or the refreshing sea spray. Whatever the ‘ingredients,’ these are always meals to remember.

For this informal lunch for four friends, we spent a near-perfect Southern California day aboard a magnificent sailboat, cruising the coast between Marina Del Rey and Point Dume off the coast of Malibu. But our wonderful lunch, completely packed in a picnic basket before we set sail, would taste just as good on a rubber dingy or on the shore of the local neighborhood pond!

When my friends arrived on board mid-morning, we served them iced tea with sprigs of fresh mint and juicy slices of watermelon. Just before lunch, appetites were honed with a snappy shrimp salsa, tortilla chips and icy beers.

For lunch, we served a poached chicken breast, stuffed with chicken and vegetables, rolled and sliced to reveal a smashing mosaic of color. Our guests were doubly impressed, as this masterpiece seemed to appear out of nowhere but it had been completely prepared the day before.

A bright, nutty-flavored arugula sauce enhanced the chicken. And two salads - mixed greens and a jumble of cold roasted potatoes, green beans and red onions - rounded out the feast.

A light, crisp Chardonnay with tropical aromas was in perfect sync with both the food and the ambiance.

For dessert, creme brulee - rich, versatile, easy to prepare and the most sophisticated comfort food around!

“It’s important to be practical and aware of your surroundings and other parameters when you’re entertaining. For example, if you’re working on a boat or at a picnic site, you can’t take the whole kitchen sink with you. But you can still present your food in a beautiful, elegant and tasteful manner.”
- Colin Cowie

Menu

Watermelon
Spicy Shrimp Salsa with Tortillas
Poached Rolled Chicken with a Parsley Tarragon Sauce
Mixed Green Salad Dressed in a Light Vinaigrette
Roasted Potato, Green Bean and Onion Salad
Creme Brulee
Sun Tea

Tip

No matter how informal the occasion, always use real plates and flatware, not disposables. It’s easy to wash a plate and rinse a drip-dry napkin for each guest - it shows that you care for them and for the environment. Borrow or rent dishware and linens if necessary.