Spectacular Seasonal Recipes Perfect for Hosting
Wednesday, May 16th, 2018
Hosting is an art form. Mastering the craft takes a lot of patience, a bit of flair, and the taste-buds of Chef Gordon Ramsay! Not everyone has what it takes, but when we are done with you, you will be one step closer to hosting heaven! Below is a perfectly curated list of some of our food and cocktail favourites for spring and summer! WOW mom, dad, Barrel Yards besties, and anyone else you want to invite over to share in your satisfying food coma.
Fruity Cocktails & Mocktails
What better way to start the party than by serving up some deliciously refreshing drinks? Try the blueberry mojito or strawberry rhubarb smoothie at your next event, and score some major hosting points!
Blueberry Mojito
This blueberry mojito from Delish is the perfect combination of sweet and tart! Just remember that if you have multiple guests coming, upsize the recipe quantities to accommodate your numbers. This particular recipe only yields 2 servings.
Strawberry Rhubarb Smoothie
This strawberry rhubarb smoothie is equal parts fun and non-alcoholic, because let’s face it, being the DD does not have to make you boring! The combination of sour rhubarb and sweet bananas and strawberries give this drink a tasty punch!
Tasty Starters
Starters are supposed to ‘start’ your party off right, so make them memorable! Instead of going for the typical nachos and spinach dip, try some scrumptious falafel and broccoli soup.
Baked Falafel with Kale, Shallots, and Sumac Tahini Sauce
Falafel is a traditional Middle Eastern dish, originating in Egypt. Made from chickpeas and various spices, it is the perfect party pick-me-up if you want to add something a little different to the mix! This tasty treat is typically deep-fried, but baking falafel is a good way to make it that much healthier. Plus, it is vegetarian-friendly! Try on its own or with a pita or salad.
Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup
If gouda and broccoli aren’t the perfect combo, then I don’t know what is! This smoked gouda broccoli soup from EatingWell is a delicious alternative to a classic favourite. The paprika and smoked gouda add a kick of flavour, while the croutons give it a satisfying crunch! If you believe croutons only belong in salads, no problem—this soup is fantastic with or without.
Mouthwatering Mains
Rich in ripe avocado, fresh strawberries, and salmon, the following dishes are ideal for this time of year. If you don’t feel quite ambitious enough to make all three of these options at once, bank 1 or 2 for future hosting ventures!
Mexican Guacamole Burgers
The only thing better than a juicy burger is a juicy burger topped with guacamole on a fresh pretzel bun! Try this delicious Mexican-style burger at your next hosting event! Freshness tip: If you have any guacamole leftover, place it in an airtight container, pack it down to eliminate any bubbles, and pour half an inch of lukewarm water over it, then refrigerate. This layer of water will act as a barrier against the decay process.
Falafel Crusted Salmon
Are you a devoted Food & Drink Magazine fan? This next recipe is for you! The falafel crusted salmon recipe was featured in the most recent Early Summer issue! Crusting this seasonal fish with falafel is a great way to add a little crunch to your palate. Follow the link above to learn how to make the cucumber salad featured in the image below!
Fruit & Nut Spinach Salad
Leafy greens are great, but what about that berry goodness? This fruit & nut spinach salad is the perfect salad to take with you into the summer months. Light, crisp, and nutty —yum! If you are iffy about so much spinach, use a spring mix base instead!
Scrumptious Sides
While french fries are delicious, these next couple of sides will make your mouth water just as much! The roasties featured below, give your body the starch it craves, and the baked heritage carrots give it a healthy dose of vitamins and minerals!
Roasted Potatoes With Lemon & Rosemary
Baked Heritage Carrots
Did you know that carrots used to come in purple, red, yellow and black until Dutch growers developed the orange variety we know today in honour of their national colour? Wow your guests by serving up a deeply ‘rooted’ history lesson alongside their tasty heritage carrots! You can find them at your local Farmer’s Markets!
Delicious Desserts
Skipping dessert is like having a burger without the bun. It’s just not right! Try whipping up one or both of the following treats for your guests this season! They are light, sweet, and oh so delicious.
Rhubarb Crumble
Rhubarb is a plant very popular this time of year. Its sour and crisp stalks make it ideal for baking pies and desserts by taking away some of the sweetness! Rhubarb crumble is best served with a scoop of ice cream, a dollop of whip cream or a side of custard.
Strawberry Pavlova
Named after the Russian dancer, Anna Pavlova, in the 1920’s, pavlova has caused quite the stir over the years. Australia and New Zealand have both staked their claim on this crunchy and creamy dessert. Made with a chewy meringue base, topped with strawberries and whip cream, we are not all that surprised —it is simply to die for!
Hosting can be both fun and nerve-wracking; not knowing what to serve your guests adds that extra level of stress you did not account for! Don’t worry, at the Barrel Yards we have you covered! Follow the seasonal recipes compiled above, and you are sure to be the host your guests rave about. Now let the good times sizzle!
