I want to put together a gift basket for my vegetarian son. I was hoping you might be able to give me some suggestions. I tried to buy a gift certificate over the phone from the local organic grocer (Earth Fare) near him but they were not able to help me. There is a Wild Oats Grocery store near me but they are not afilliated. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
The Vegan Store sells gift baskets and has other holiday ideas. http://www.veganstore.com. If you don't want to use mail order, you can at least get ideas.
But if you build your own basket, try some of these things:
Gourmet Nuts (Macadamia, Pine Nuts for cooking) Spices Jars of pickled garlic, pickled asparagus Jar of minced garlic Specialty grains -- QFC has some of these in small packages Jars of jam, soy butter, etc. Teas, coffees Good olive oil Fancy crackers -- my favorite is Rye Crisp Kitchen gadgets -- does he have his own tortilla press?? Pasta and sauces Wine or sparkling cider A donation to environmental or animal organization Vegetarian or vegan cookbook Glycerin soaps Candles Music CD to enjoy with dinner or bath Subscription to vegetarian cooking magazine Subscription to PETA or other organization magazine Coupon for his favorite vegetarian meal at your place Gourmet popcorn
Those were just some ideas for themes for a Vegetarian basket like:
Movie Night Bath Time Gourmet Pasta Environmental/Animal Protection Chef's Delight Sunday Morning Brunch
Making baskets is one of my favorite holiday presents. This year I made Italian Pasta baskets for a couple of dear folks on my list -- cookbook, pine nuts, pesto sauce, pasta, wine, marinated mushrooms, all kinds of yummy things in a huge basket. (Michael's was carrying straw laundry baskets this year for $4 -- they are perfect for creating a generous holiday gift basket!)
Sun dried tomatoes--either dried or in the glass jar. I often substitute these in recipes that call for Italian ham, nova lox, etc. for both color and flavor. Reconstitute the dried variety with boiling water, "squeeze" dry and add to dishes and dips and spreads-- pasta dishes with good olive oil are a favorite as well as spreads to crackers. Experiment and enjoy! Bon appetite! Laura and Family
