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
Fun Summer Finds
So now that summer has well and truly begun, I thought I would share with you some of my favorite finds for the perfect summer – in and out of the kitchen. These are just some ideas about personal favorites – no one has asked me to promote any products. Nothing says summer quite like ice cream, so I highly recommend a simple ice cream maker. I have this Cuisinart version … [Read more...] about Fun Summer Finds
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
Summer Squash Casserole
I honed my squash cooking techniques years ago when I first started planning events for a living. I had two wonderful clients planning a big, beautiful outdoor wedding for their daughter on their sprawling, picturesque property. The father of the bride had an elaborate garden, raised, tiered beds all surrounded by a critter-proof cage. Every time I came out to meet with my … [Read more...] about Summer Squash Casserole
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
