If you read my post from last week, while I am LOVING this summer, especially with the new pool (I always need a pool in my life), you know that I am in a cooking RUT. There are only so many veggies you can grill (plus who wants to stand over a hot grill), burgers you can flip and chips and guacs you can make.
We had some friends over this weekend (cause what else do we do!) and I decided I needed to up my game and get out of my same old coleslaw and hot dog rut. Although, can we say chili slaw dogs have been bringing my life this summer…my mom’s famous recipe linked.
So I started down a NYT Cooking recipe hole and I came up with what I thought was a damn good menu! Here its is with recipes linked.
I tried to make as much as I could ahead – night before and morning of. There is nothing I dislike more than being stranded in the kitchen cooking while everyone else is outside having fun. So I pretty much have an MBA in Party Prep.
Fancy Drink:
Paloma – Im not a big tequila drinker but wanted to have some alternative options for the guests! I tried one – maybe I’m converted!
Calcarius Orangepuglia by Valentina Passalacqua which is my absolute favorite natural wine maker at the moment. Cannot go wrong with any of her stuff! If you can get it!
Gruet Blanc De Blancs Sauvage – brought by friends and it was an absolute delight!
Appetizer:
Shrimp Cocktail from The Little Silver Fish Co – best cocktail sauce I have ever had.
Chips and Guac from Sickles (I make an awesome guac but like I said, I’m trying to keep it easy…)
Charred Scallion Dip with Lemon + Herbs
Entree:
Steaks from this unbelievable butcher in Red Bank
Lobster from The Little Silver Fish Co – AMAZING.
Sides:
Cucumber Salad with Soy Ginger and Garlic
Corn Salad with Tomatoes, Feta + Mint
Dessert:
Fresh Mixed Berries (if you need a recipe for this, sorry I can’t help you :))
