The temperature finally seems to be rising this week. I honestly am not sure I am "feeling" summer just yet but according to the calendar it will be here soon!!! I am getting ready for some outdoor entertaining, how about you??
I'm starting to plan something for Memorial Day and will do a taco bar for this holiday weekend ahead. A little guacamole and fresh crudite to get started. Of course, we will have chips, but thinking a few fresh veggies to keep it a bit on the lighter side too.
A good margarita to get started. I happen to love the fresh taste of mint and cucumber so keeping it easy and simple here. Cucumber, mint margaritas.
CLASSIC CUCUMBER MINT MARGARITA
INGREDIENTS
1 1/2 ounces Tequila
1/2 ounce Fresh Lime Juice
1 ounce Agave Nectar
2 Pieces Cucumber 1"x1" (cut into smaller pieces)
4 Fresh Mint Leaves
INSTRUCTIONS
Muddle cucumber and mint leaves in a tall mixing glass. Combine remaining ingredients and shake over ice. Pour into glass and garnish with mint and cucumber.
I plan to do a couple of taco options. I love to assort the flavors. I usually do grilled fish of some sort, tuna or lobster for a "cold" version and my new favorite is short rib tacos. Don't try to overcomplicate it- stick to 1 or 2 flavors unless you can hire a caterer and do a fantastic "taco bar" like this roaming version from On the Marc Catering. We loved having his catering for Cinco De Mayo and our guests got a real thrill with the roaming taco bar!
Candles are always a good idea. To change up these pastel votives I had purchased for spring I added a few bright flowers and decided to float the candles in water to give it a different look than a standard votive.
I am looking forward to getting outdoors and using my new placemats and dishes. These placemats and napkin rings are from Kim Seybert and feel a little like "metal". I like the texture and setting for outdoor entertaining. My new dishes are melamine and are perfect for outdoor entertaining. I found the solid dinner plates in various colors and the assorted color salad plates and wine glasses all at Pottery Barn.
I love mixing old and new. The napkins were a gift from one of my clients- part of her mother's collection of beautiful china and linens. So Lucky, grateful and thankful she passed them along to me. The best part of the table!
Hope you have an amazing Memorial Day weekend and a fantastic summer ahead!!