I happen to think that an icy gin and tonic is the most refreshing simple summer cocktail. Two ingredients, lots of ice, and a squeeze of lime and happy hour begins. Perhaps it reminds me of punting parties in the park when I was a student at Oxford, or makes me feel sophisticated because my elegant grandmother ordered them when we traveled. It is my go to drink at parties or … [Read more...] about Cucumber Mint Gin and Tonic
Snacks And Starters
Blackberry Orange Muffins
I have waxed poetic about my love for fresh blackberries before, with my Tennessee Blackberry Jam Cake, and at this time of year, when the big juicy berries are all over the farmers markets, I can hardly resist. I find that I buy way more than I can consume on their own, sprinkled with a little sugar. Luckily, they are amazing in baked goods like these tender muffins. A … [Read more...] about Blackberry Orange Muffins
S’More Cookies
The iconic S’more. That memory-provoking piece of gooey, melty childhood - summer camp, the Fourth of July, beach bonfires. I am not the first to re-imagine the s’more in a slightly less drippy, sticky and potentially hazardous form, but perhaps I am the laziest. The portable, storable S’more cookies need only six ingredients, one bowl to mix and a few minutes to bake. But … [Read more...] about S’More Cookies
Stuffed Eggs Béarnaise
I believe that my mother’s favorite dish may well be stuffed eggs. That’s what we always call them, not deviled eggs, because deviled somehow implies spicy and my mother does not do spicy. Stuffed eggs have always been an essential part of a family gathering, particularly Sunday after-church lunch at my grandparents’, with tomato sandwiches and fried chicken. We never had a … [Read more...] about Stuffed Eggs Béarnaise
Lemon Garlic Cashews
These tangy nuts are a great nibble with a glass of wine or to snack on during the day. Wrap attractively for great little happy gifts. Look for whole raw cashews in the bulk section of whole food stores or upscale markets. Already roasted nuts won’t soak up the lemon juice. Lemon Garlic Cashews Zest of 1 large lemon Juice of one large lemon (about 3 … [Read more...] about Lemon Garlic Cashews
