On Saturday, March 24, former Dexter actress, Julie Benz, hosted a bridal shower like no other when she brought 20 friends – including her bridal party and other friends and family – to Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts in Hollywood.

“I’m not your typical bride, so doing something out of the box like a cooking lesson at Le Cordon Bleu was perfect for my shower. I loved that although I invited a lot of friends from various parts of my life, the hands-on aspect created a forced interaction—in the best way possible! It was so unexpected and unique, and everyone had such a great time,” said Benz.

So just what did Julie want to learn how to prepare for her special day? Following the shower’s theme of “Sweet and Spicy,” the Indian-inspired menu below was created specifically for Julie by Le Cordon Bleu.

Potato and Green Pea Samosas served with a Serrano chili-based Green Chutney and Pickled Root Vegetables

Chicken Vindaloo

Molten Chocolate Lava Cake with an Ancho Chili Ganache center, served with a Vanilla Bean Ice Cream and a Spicy Tuile Cookie

Thank you to Danny for sending us the photos and article and to Carla Choy of Le Cordon Bleu who took the photos!