Summer Entertaining Ideas
from Pascale
August is here and it is time for an “Al fresco Aperitif" party on your deck or shady patio! Verrines Click to enlarge
I have developed a passion for those little “verrines” (plastic shot cups) and I find new uses for them all the time. So for my summer cocktail party, I fill them up with a tasty aioli (or any favorite vegetable dip), ”plant” a bouquet of crisp and colorful julienned crudités - carrots, celery, jicama, and red and orange sweet peppers strips. Then garnish with a sprig of parsley, placing it in the center of the bouquet. Insert the cups in tiny clay flower pots (purchased in a craft store) for a charming look. You can display your crudités garden on a slate tile using a large flower pot as a base - whimsical and so summery!
To pursue this fresh summer garden theme...
Cantaloupes have been so sweet and ripe this season, just perfect for this surprising and colorful summer cooler. Just blend the coral flesh of a ripe cantaloupe with some ice and serve in those little plastic shot cups (to purchase in a party store) or cordial glasses. Decorate with a fresh mint leaf.
Place on a colorful tray alternating with frozen lemonade shot glasses also garnished with a mint leaf. If you wish you may add a splash of vodka to the cantaloupe cooler and a splash of white rum to the frozen lemonade! Sweet, refreshing and delicious! Check back here from time to time for my new seasonal entertaining tips. Bonne soiree! Pascale |
|
