The Kentucky Derby took place over the weekend in Louisville — devour Yum's delicious inspired meals. While the weekend was all about horse races, let's admit it: it's also fun to focus on the outrageous hats. Ashlee Simpson and Pete Wentz took a safe route, albeit totally cool. The award for the most flamboyant hat goes to, who else, figure skater Johnny Weir. Enter to see all the head gear from this year's Kentucky Derby.
This year the Kentucky Derby takes place on May 1, so let sunny Spring florals dictate the theme of your party. The menu is a spread of hearty appetizers that should be displayed buffet-style around the living room. White platters look crisp against a printed colorful tablecloth. Silver mint julep glasses are a must. Set the pie out and let guests admire it until it's time for dessert. Make sure the television is visible from all angles — you don't want anyone to miss the race. To let friends know where the party is, stick horse and jockey signs in the front yard.
Where will you be watching the derby this year?
Just as Derby pie should be your go-to Derby dessert, there's only one drink to enjoy on the day of the Kentucky Derby: the mint julep. If you've never had the official beverage of the race, what are you waiting for? Don't waste another minute of your life without sipping this well-balanced and refreshing concoction. The classic recipe consists of mint, bourbon, and simple syrup, but this year I'm going to experiment with a variation that involves fresh-squeezed lime juice and fizzy club soda. To take a look at the recipe, read more
There's only one dessert to serve at a Kentucky Derby viewing party, and that's pie. The original recipe for the authentic pie is a close guarded secret , but a quick Internet search proves that there are tons of chocolate-nut pie variations out there. This one is similar to a classic pecan pie, but with a rich brown sugar bourbon filling and chocolate chips. It needs time to bake and set and can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. If you have time, I would make the pie on Friday night. For the delicious recipe, keep reading.
The Kentucky Derby, the most talked about horse race of the year, is this Saturday. I like to use it as an excuse to gather friends for a little party. The race starts at 6 p.m. on the East coast and 3 p.m. on the West coast. The ideal time to throw a party is before the race; have guests come at 4 p.m. (East coast) or 1 p.m. (West coast) and serve a spread of upscale Southern-inspired appetizers. Blackened shrimp with roasted garlic aioli will have your guests licking their fingers and hungry for more. Deviled eggs go glam with the addition of tangy goat cheese and chunky chutney.
Crunchy fried green tomatoes add an element of necessary fried goodness to the menu. Mini grilled cheese and ham sandwiches are a crowd-pleasing classic. If you're hosting a Kentucky Derby shindig, I highly recommend you check out these recipes after the break.
