It's once again time to celebrate our birthday, and that includes a bit of bubbly not only in our glasses, but also in the veggies and dessert. (Look, if there isn't Champagne involved, it just isn't a party.) Happy 2nd birthday to us!

Tiny bubbles. They make everything taste better.

For those curious about the meaning of mise en place, it is a French culinary term for "set in place." If you have ever watched a cooking show, or been inside a restaurant kitchen, you will notice that next to the cooking area, things are set up just so. Ingredients, sauces and critical elements are ready to be used, whether pre-cooked, pre-chopped, or ready as a garnish. This kind of organized setup enables a cook to focus on the actual act of cooking itself without distraction. Our intention with this section is to use the same approach at home, enabling you to host your own special occasions with flair.

PAIRING NOTES FROM LENN THOMPSON

Lenn Thompson from Lenndevours.com (our official Wine Pairing Dude) has provided us with a rather inviting list of pairings for this month's menu, so we invite you to indulge in these combinations as you celebrate whatever occasion warrants it (that means anytime, for any reason, people). Just print out the menu and take it to your local wine store.

Apple Turnip Soup with Nutmeg Cheddar Breadsticks

Varietal: Chardonnay

Reasoning: Chardonnay is the obvious and overwhelming choice here. Steer clear of California and look to White Burgundy -- the pear, apple and baking spice notes will pair extremely well with the flavors of this soup. Balanced creaminess and acidity will both complement and enhance the soup at the same time.

Gorgonzola Stuffed Steak with Prosciutto

Varietal: Barolo

Reasoning: We're celebrating here, so spend as much as you on a top-flight Barolo, which is one of the boldest, richest wines of Italy. It's a time-tested pairing with Gorgonzola cheese and is bold enough to stand up to any steak.

Champagne Glazed Cauliflower

Varietal: Champagne

Reasoning: Sometimes pairing wine with food is too easy. Drink the same Champagne or sparkling that you used in the dish. That's wine pairing at its simplest. (Note: We've included a wine pairing for this dish as you may wish to serve it with something other than the steak.) For more information on bubbly, see our test kitchen's Champagne dossier.

Champagne Flan

Varietal: Champagne

Reasoning: Because there is no better way to celebrate, open a bottle of bubbly to serve with this rich custardy dessert. The acidity and bubbles will keep your palate cleansed as you toast your birthday or any other celebration. Be sure to choose a drier Champagne and not dessert ("doux") Champagne here, as it would lend too much sweetness and weight to properly balance the flan. For more information on bubbly, see our test kitchen's Champagne dossier.