simple summer soiree

i find there is nothing more satisfying than a simple dinner of steamed shellfish. Its my favorite one pot meal for entertaining. A pretty dutch oven on the center of the table ladened with steamed mussels or clams and very little else is needed. It seems to be perfect for any season, but its quick cooking time and bountiful outcome seem especially well suited to an unfussy summer meal. I particularly like this recipe. 
      With the deep purple, blue and black hues of the mussel shell as inspiration, i imagined a table as simply beautiful as the meal. 


napkin, ramekin, paper lantern, wine, wine glass, dutch oven, ironstone bowls, wooden board, cheese.