The Never Say Die Cocktail

 

3 rums, 4 fruit juices, one terrific Tiki drink

It’s hot in our part of the world, folks. And humid.
 
So we need a hit of cool, refreshing Tiki. The Never Say Die is one of the most interesting Tiki potions we know. It’s a bit of a production to make, but totally worth it.

‘Cause the heat is on.

Watermelon, Feta, and Mint Salad

This cool, refreshing dish screams summer

Looking for a light but lively dish to open your next dinner party? Melon is here to help.

Watermelon is at peak season in our part of the world. So we give it the starring role in this company-worthy first course.

What a cool way to start the evening.

The Ancient Mariner Cocktail

Zesty and refreshing, this Tiki drink is a delightful cooler

Polynesian-themed sippers known as “Tiki drinks” charmed much of the US (and the world) in the mid-20th century, before falling from favor. They’re staging a revival now, and why not? Many feature rum + fruit juice — one of the best cocktail combos we know.

The Ancient Mariner is a delightful example. Its rich, soothing flavor makes for a perfect afternoon sipper.

So why not beat the heat with a beach-themed treat?

Quick Pickled Red Onions

A tasty condiment for burgers, tacos, BBQ (or anything)

Quick pickling – also called refrigerator pickling – is an easy way to pickle almost any vegetable you can think of. It’s much faster (and much less work) than the traditional canning process.

Red onions are a great choice for pickling. They make a tasty topping for burgers, tacos, and BBQ. Even scrambled eggs. You can also use them as an ingredient in wraps and sandwiches. Or add them to a cheese/charcuterie board for extra color and flavor. Or just drop them atop cream-cheese covered crackers.

Some people say you can even eat them all by themselves, out of the jar, standing in front of the refrigerator. Not that we’d ever do that. 

Philadelphia Fish House Punch

A party in a glass – from 1732

Need a cooling, cheering summer refresher? Something you can make in quantity for a crowd? Or just by the glass for yourself and friends?

Punch to the rescue! Philadelphia Fish House Punch was one of America’s earliest “mixed drinks.” Several founding fathers drank it. Who knew they were such party animals?

Take that, George III. 

The Sunshine Cocktail

Cool and refreshing, the perfect answer to summer’s heat

Looking for a peppy predinner potation to start your summer evenings? This delightful combo of white rum, dry vermouth, and pineapple juice (with a hint of grenadine to add flavor and color) is just the drink.

Its fruity, snappy flavor will wake up your tastebuds. So share it with your friends and enjoy their delight, too.

Because into each life some sun should shine. 

Smacked (Smashed) Cucumber Salad

Spicy chili crisp livens up this classic Chinese side (or first course)

Cukes! Is there a better veggie for beating summer’s heat?

For a quick pickled version, try them in this Sichuan dish. It combines cudgeled cukes with tangy extras. It’s terrific with Chinese food, of course. But it works just as well with traditional cookout fare. So skip the coleslaw and serve this as a side with pulled pork or barbecued ribs. Or hamburgers and hot dogs.

Smashing good stuff.