Summertime Vibes are all about the Sunshine, Patios, Cold drinks and Hanging out with the best of Friends!
Everyone has their own image and memories associated with the summer. Maybe yours is a fancy patio bar in the city, a favourite local pub patio, a perfect home patio beside the pool or maybe a patio by the ocean? All of these patio options sound pretty sweet right?! For me summer is is all about cold drinks, a patio, hanging with the best of friends while listening to Patio Lanterns by Kim Mitchell.Growing up, my parents had the 1970’s era multi-coloured large lanterns set up in our back yard. Summer patio lights are as fun as lights on a Christmas tree. They ignite the magic of the space and provide the added bonus of patio functionality well into the late evening.
Ever notice how summer parties tend to be the longest parties? They start early in the day and before you know it; extend well into the wee hours. My All Seasons Vegan cookbook has a summer patio menu perfect for dishes early in the day and for late evening. Every summer, I alternate six cold salads, two punches and two icy smoothies to keep my guests cool on a hot day. Both punches go well with rum or vodka. The icy smoothies are rich in protein and are filling – perfect for sustaining your energy on a long summer day.
Later in the evening, if you want to serve a warm dish for your guests, try my Loaded Nachos and Lettuce Wraps from that seasonal chapter. Keep in mind that these recipes can be served at any time, in any order and are simple to make. These beautiful flowers were inspired by the cold salads. My menu is what usually brings the table setting to life so I usually think of the decorating around the food colours.
Have you ever enjoyed a water ballon fight as a kid? I have a very joyful memory of a water balloon fight at a family reunion. It was a hot rainy day and made no difference if we got wet. Everyone got into the game. I was only around 6 years old and still feels like it was yesterday. Everyone was running around, dancing, feeling the rain on their face and tossing water balloons everywhere. That was a great day!
This pink strawberry marshmallow salad has some history. This salad is a tradition from relatives in Saskatchewan. It is creamy, not to sweet, light, and super yummy! This recipe is also in my cookbook.
I am sure you are looking forward to another beautiful summer. I have lots of new recipes to share with you all, especially gluten free options so keep your eyes out for new uploads on my website.
Happy Summer Vibes, keep your glasses full of cold punch, your best buddies close and enjoy every little bit of sunshine this season has to offer!
XO Tammy