Simple Soothing Summer Solutions

Ah, Summertime. The shimmering Sun, the fragrant fresh produce, and the heat... oh, yes the heat. As much as I love chatting about events and design I believe it's hard to feed the soul without refreshing the body. Creativity thrives off of balance so here's a few simple (and oh so cool) recipes for dinner and drinks.

Simply Peach Sangria
A crisp, light twist to a summer favorite!

Slice citric fruit (1/2 medium Orange, 1/2 small lemon and 1/2 small lime and place in a large pitcher. Sprinkle in a 1/4 to 1/3 cup of sugar (or splenda) and mix together in pitcher with a wooden spoon until citric juices are mixed with the sweetener. Set aside. Slice 2 to 3 ripe peaches and 1 pear (and 1 star fruit - optional). We love to also add a sprig of julienned mint. Add fruit and mint to the pitcher and muddle slightly with the wooden spoon. Now add 2 bottles of light-bodied white wine - Our favorite is a Riesling or a nice Pino. Chill for at least 4 hours but overnight is best... enjoy!

So Nice with Ice!

Quick, easy and stylish way to endulge in sensational sips!

Freeze a small amount of your favorite juice (Mango, Pineapple, Pomegranate, Cherry, etc.) in an ice tray. Drop a cube (or two) in a Champagne or other tall glass and pour your favorite Champagne (I personally love a good Perscio or Spumante), sparkling water, or sparkling cider... enjoy!

Simply, Soothing "Summer Gazpacho"

Have you ever tried a cold soup? On a sweltering summer day this make ahead delight that's sooo refreshing!

6 ripe tomatoes (peeled and chopped)

1 purple onion (finely chopped)

1 cucumber (peeled, seeded and chopped)

1 sweet red bell pepper (seeded and chopped)

1 tbsp chopped parsley

1 - 2 cloves of garlic (mined - raw garlic is fine but roasted is preferred)

1/4 cup red wine vinegar

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

1 tbsp sugar (or splenda)

1 to 2 teaspoons of Worcestershire sauce

4 cups tomato juice

squeeze of lemon to taste (1 to 2 teaspoons)

salt and pepper (preferably white pepper) to taste

Note: You may also add a little Tabasco sauce to taste a little zing!

Combine ingredients in a blender and blend slightly - until it reaches desired smoothness. Transfer to a container and allow to chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours. This soup can also be made a day before - in fact, it's best when the flavors are allowed to blend overnight. Serve with some nice crusty bread or (to make it really endulgent) some cooked, cold "peel & eat" shrimp... enjoy!!