Are You Prepared for Unexpected Get Togethers?
With the warmer weather and more relaxed schedule of summer break, casual gatherings on the patio with friends are more common. In the past week, I've been to two such al fresco events, and I cannot think of a better way to spend time with friends.
My experience is that when the weather is great outside, most people, including myself, want to spend less time in the kitchen and more time around the grill. My husband disagrees, but not everything for a meal can come from the grill!
Most people know that you can grill meats, seafood, veggies, and pizza. There are other foods that can be grilled as well. Have you ever thought about grilling bread, sandwiches, potatoes, or polenta? What about meatballs or tofu? Fruits, such as apples, peaches, pineapple, and even watermelon, are excellent side dishes to any grilled meat. Artichokes, asparagus, and green beans are also good. This list is endless, so use your imagination.
Just because you can grill something doesn't mean that you should! I was once in one of my favorite restaurants, so I trusted the chef's creations. I thought a grilled Caesar salad sounded odd, but the waitress recommended it. Well, let's just say that two bites were enough. Some people like this salad, so try it if it sounds interesting to you. Grilling a head of romaine lettuce is not attractive to me. While you can grill lettuce, I will not do it. I also ran across a recipe for grilled pound cake, which again does not interest me, but maybe it would be good with grilled fruit?
Grilling makes entertaining easy, to say nothing about the simple clean up! A quick trip to the store to buy meat and veggies is all that you really need. Marinating the food is optional, so last minute get togethers present no problem. But, what about an appetizer or side dish?
It is important to have a properly stocked pantry for last minute parties so that you can enjoy the company instead of being in the kitchen cooking. I always have toasted nuts and crackers in the freezer, which can be pulled out and paired with cheese. I also keep a jar of Mediterranean spiced olives and hummus in the refrigerator. And, just like that, you have appetizers.
This week's recipe for Garlicky butter beans takes little to no time to prepare and requires only pantry ingredients. Canned beans, garlic, mustard, lemon juice or vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper. If you have fresh herbs, add them. If you have the time, make this recipe 24 hours in advance to allow the beans to marinate.
Serve this bean salad as a side dish, in a salade composée, or as a topping for bruschetta for an appetizer. If you like garlic, you will love this dish! Another plus is that it is appropriate for vegetarians, vegans, and gluten-free guests. There are no nuts, dairy, or soy either.
Keep a gallon of ice cream or Magnum bars in the freezer and dessert is solved. If you have fruit, why not grill it? If nothing else, it will provide a lively discussion.
Share your unusual grilling recipes or experiences!