A Millie Favorite

A Millie Favorite

Wednesday, April 13, 2011

Eat outside and have some fun!

Spring! I just can't say enough about this season. There is something about the fresh air and everything in bloom. It is nice outside without the oppressive summer sun beating down on you. People in my neighborhood are out walking their dogs, kids are playing and there is a sense of coming together as a community and saying hi after a long and very snowy winter.

I live in Memphis and one of the most amazing things that we get to have is a unique "patio" culture. Almost every restaurant in the city has to have some sort of outside seating. As soon as we hit temps in the 60's, there are lines just have a chance to sit and eat (or drink) outside. It is one of my favorite things about living here.

As I walk around the bistros, cafes and restaurants in my neighborhood, I like to watch everyone sitting outside. There is never a person with a frown or scowl on their face. In fact, everyone is loud and smiling! This unique and amazing part of living in my hometown has led me to think about how we all can create a patio culture for our families.

The weather is nice, so let's eat outside! Create your own patio night for your kids. Wash off your grill, make a big salad and some iced tea and have a night of fun... OUTSIDE! This is such a great way to get your kids outdoors, have a good conversation and really just enjoy your family. Like I said, I have never seen anyone on those patios upset. There is just something about being outside and having a cool drink that makes us all happy.

Cheers!

My favorite outdoor recipes:

Mango Salad

  • One soften mango cubed
  • Butter lettuce (or your favorite greens)
  • Goat cheese 
Wash your lettuce and combine in a beautiful salad bowl. 

Shrimp and red pepper kabobs 
  • Fresh, peeled and devained shrimp
  • Red pepper sliced thick
  • Pineapple cubes 
Season the shrimp with lime, salt and pepper. Place on grill-ready kabob spits in the oder that you choose. Place on the grill till the shrimp is nice and dark pink in color. Serve with a little cilantro sprinkle over the kabob. 

Fresh berries and mint
  • Half pint of raspberries
  • Half pint of blueberries 
  • Half pint of blackberries 
  • Half pint of strawberries, sliced in halves. 
Mix in a bowl with 1/4 cup of sugar and chopped fresh mint. It is important to have fresh mint for this recipe. Let it combine in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. Enjoy! 

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