De Ma Cuisine

Friday

24

May 2013

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It’s Time to Eat Outdoors!

Written by , Posted in Holiday, Menu Planning, Potlucks, Thoughts

It’s feeling a lot like summer ’round here. The weather is hot and the food is light, fresh, and simple. I’m totally not opposed to a summer soup. Not at all. But, there’s definitely a time and a place for salads, barbecues, spritzers, and watermelon. And that time is now.

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If you’re anything like me when I get hungry, I get a little, teeeeeeensy bit grumpy. To combat this, as you’re getting out the food, set out a few snacky things that can also go along with the meal. Veggies and Dip, Not Your Average Spinach Artichoke Dip, Fresh Veggie Salsa, Guacamole, or the incredible Avocado, Tomato, and Fava Bean Dip with Corn Chips are good options.

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Once you’ve eaten a few bites, you can finish unpacking the rest.

My Uncle Jake makes these incredible ribs. I’ve never made them myself, because I don’t know if I could do them justice. Someday maybe I’ll attempt them. But for now, I’ll just hope that the next time we visit he just happens to make them (I may or may not send an email to hint at this wonderful idea).

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My Mom has been making Potato Salad for as long as I can remember. It’s one of my favorites, and I think it’s also one of hers. I made it on my show once, with a few modifications. Both versions are delicious, so you can’t really go wrong.

If you want a one dish wonder that’s perfect for a picnic, a potluck, or just dinner on the patio, try this Summer Veggie Quinoa Salad. I could just eat and eat and eat salads like this. I may not be content to only ever eat salads, but for a meal, once in a while, I love an array of wonderfully delicious salads!

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For dessert, there’s not much better than ice cream. I’m a fan of plain old vanilla without toppings (I know, I know, how boring). Buuuut, I also love it with some Roasted Berries and Apriums, some Strawberry Jam, or Aunt Sue’s Chocolate Fudge Sauce.

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I could also say there isn’t much better than this Strawberry-Balsamic Tart. I guess I’ll just have to have two favorites. Maybe you could just serve both for dessert. I’m cool with that.

Now let’s picnic! I’m ready to eat!

Happy Eating!

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