Jul 03, 2009 -
Since your guests are anticipating an array of grilled and classic appetizers that scream Fourth of July, this weekend, why not do something different? Surprise them with a platter of mini crab cakes! They're a luxurious appetizer and all-American favorite.
- 8 Comments
Jul 03, 2009 -
It can't be Independence Day weekend without warm weather and strong rays of sunshine. My suggestions for when the mercury rises? Keep close to a pool, seek refuge by the air conditioner, and avoid turning on that oven at all costs.
- 0 Comments
Jul 02, 2009 -
With Fourth of July right around the corner and the plethora of red, white, and blue foods, it dawned on me I wanted to try and make my own condiments for the holiday. Essential to slather on burgers and hot dogs, ketchup and mustard are surprisingly simple to make. Both require very little time in the kitchen, but the mustard seeds need two days to soak in vinegar and water.
- 0 Comments
Jul 02, 2009 -
On a hot day, there's nothing quite like a tall glass filled with a tart mojito. Although the drink was created in Cuba in 1943, it's now considered a classic cocktail by America's top bartenders.
Since it's one of my favorite Summer sips, I'm serving them at my Independence Day party.
- 2 Comments
Jul 02, 2009 -
Looking for an exciting new vegetarian recipe to serve on the Fourth of July? Consider this recipe: an upscale take on the classic veggie burger.
The patty is a filling combination of bulgur, pinto beans, walnuts, and spices.
- 3 Comments
Jul 02, 2009 -
Barbecues are a great way to chill out with your friends, but they can be a disaster for your waistline. Be proactive and bring side dishes and desserts you know are healthy and diet-friendly. This way you can spread the health while ensuring you have something to eat.
- 0 Comments
Jul 01, 2009 -
You can do pretty much anything with the succulent, summery caprese salad concept, from caprese skewers to caprese nachos. So when heirloom tomatoes started showing up at my farmers market, I whipped up a sandwich featuring the classic combination of fresh basil and mozzarella cheese.
I'm almost embarrassed by how easy it is to make, but that's why this sandwich is perfect for the season.
- 0 Comments
Jul 01, 2009 -
While one could easily serve red, white, and blue parfaits at a 4th of July party, I prefer to give guests a more all-American dessert — in the form of a crowd-pleasing cupcake. When I saw these adorably patriotic cupcakes in the current issue of Martha Stewart Living, I knew they would be on the menu at my Independence Day celebration.
The vanilla cake batter is dotted with fresh blueberries before being baked.
- 1 Comment
Jul 01, 2009 -
If you've never made quesadillas on the grill, I highly recommend you do so this evening. When charred over an open fire, the tortillas get a nice smoky flavor and delightful crispy texture.
Take some help from the store by using a rotisserie chicken and pre-washed spinach.
- 4 Comments
Jul 01, 2009 -
July 4 officially celebrates our country's independence, but this year, make your fiesta as much about food as it is about the fireworks. Regardless of whether you serve hamburgers or hot dogs, coleslaw or creamy potato salad, don't forget to leave some serious room for a red, white, and blue parfait, which is both gratifying on a balmy night and visually stunning.
Impress guests by paying a literal homage to the stars and stripes with a dessert composed of berry gelatin and creamy panna cotta.
- 3 Comments
