Can We All Breathe a Bit of (Outside) Relief?

This Month’s Recipes: Shrubs: Pineapple and Berry - Green Tahini Sauce - Lebanese Slaw (Salatet Malfouf)

With the weather improving and at least some of our friends and neighbors having received their vaccinations…  it’s time to get together with those we have missed!  (In a socially-distanced, responsible way, of course.)

Let’s make way for some refreshing new drinks and snacks!  Try out one of our favorites and let us know how you enjoyed it!

Shrubs – A delightful addition to a cocktail or a fun summer mocktail!

Shrubs are, in their purest form, some type of fruit macerated/cooked or steeped with sugar and vinegar to create a sweet and sour syrup.  They can be cooked down or left to steep in the refrigerator.  This mixture can then be diluted in some seltzer water for a refreshing mocktail or added to your favorite cocktail mixture of choice to really turn things up. 

I am making it my goal to experiment with shrubs this summer. From this recipe for a Pineapple Shrub, https://www.liquor.com/pineapple-shrub-recipe-5077965, to this fresh Berry version, https://www.liquor.com/berry-shrub-recipe-5077963, it seems like a beautiful addition to the happy hour repertoire. And, if added to seltzer and ice, something fun and different for kiddos or expecting mamas too!

Bites – Green Tahini and Mezze Platters

Mezze Platters, that incorporate olives, feta, hummus, baba ghanouj, tzatziki, pita bread or crackers, and other yummy items are another delicious snack idea to serve with friends.  A bit different than a charcuterie platter, but just as approachable and easy.  Many of the dips can be purchased, but if you are up for making one of your own, try this recipe for Green Tahini sauce.  It’s nutty, herbal, salty and a tiny bit spicy.  Wonderfully different and keeps well for at least a week.  If you are up for a veggie salad to accompany the platter, try this slaw.  The acid and herbs transform the cabbage from something ho-hum to a beautiful, and delicious salad you want to keep eating.  Many thanks to Sylvia at Feasting at Home for these delicious recipes!

We appreciate your support during this past year. I know it’s been trying for everyone and we feel fortunate to support so many of you with safely prepared, delicious meals.  Stay safe and be well.

All the best,

Shana Larsen and the Chefs of Ready, Set, Eat!