Maybe it’s because I am from a hot climate, but I love a good cold soup, and I think in general they get overlooked. Though what could be more refreshing on a steamy summer day? Most people think only of vichyssoise or gazpacho. But there is so much more. The classic potato-leek vichyssoise is one of my favorite things ever - I make it for myself all the … [Read more...] about Chilled Tzatziki Soup (Cucumber and Yogurt)
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Southern Buttermilk Cobb Salad
Summer entertaining should be easy. It is just too hot to spend hours over a steaming stove. But that doesn’t mean a meal can’t be spectacular. And I am telling you, no one will feel cheated with a salad for dinner when it is this full of delicious, hearty components. I love laying this out on a big rectangular platter – it absolutely produces oohs and ahhs. But a big pretty … [Read more...] about Southern Buttermilk Cobb Salad
Watermelon, Cucumber and Mint Sorbet
I generally think a cold slice of watermelon is the most refreshing treat on a hot summer’s day. I also cool myself off with a tall glass of water infused with cucumber. Blend these two together, add the summer taste of fresh mint and freeze them and consider yourself refreshed. This is just plain good, but also makes an elegant simple dessert for a dinner party. And you can … [Read more...] about Watermelon, Cucumber and Mint Sorbet
Pimm’s Cup
The build up to the royal wedding continues, and I feel that it is time to share my instructions for the perfect, the quintessential British cocktail, Pimm’s Cup. Pimm’s is a liqueur, with a long held secret recipe, the subject of much speculation. You’ll find it at any good liquor store in the liqueur section. There is nothing better than a tall, icy glass of Pimm’s on a … [Read more...] about Pimm’s Cup
Cucumber Mint Gin and Tonic
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
