Independence (from the oven) Day

Pinterest would have us believe that July 4th is the day when Americans gather together to clink their perfectly styled red, white and blue layered drinks in mason jars, munch on perky fruit tarts served on vintage china, complemented of course by impeccable patriotic crafts displayed on crisp white linen as it flutters ever so delicately in the breeze.

Over here in my little corner of life, I struggle to make sure the berries don't turn moldy immediately after washing them (seriously, am I the only one this happens to?); I'm leery of blue foods (and don't own any mason jars anyway); and crafts? Ha! I'd have to do the craft from inside the air conditioner to make sure the glue doesn't turn into a tacky mess in the heat. I do love vintage china, but since I live in a two room apartment what I have is in storage. No, I'm basically just looking forward to celebrating with Thom, since the last time he had the 4th off was 2009*.

In real life we make messy

 If you're less than pinterest perfect like me, you'll probably appreciate a little time away from the stove this week. Here are some ideas to help you keep your cool:

Peach Melba Daiquiri
You know that commercial where the two girls are sitting on a roof deck pretending they're on a cruise because they have the latest caramelmochacoconutpoopaccino? It's funny because it's true. A few minutes with my trusty immersion blender and Thom and I are sitting on our concrete patio, shaded by the towering brick building behind ours, sipping on a couple of Peach Melba Daiquiris, and wishing we were back in Cancun.

Nothing beats a poolside bar

 Combine crushed ice, frozen raspberries, raspberry syrup and amaretto - pulverize. In a separate container pulverize frozen peaches, crushed ice and peach liqueur. Combine and top with whipped cream and a straw. Go outside and put your feet up. Ahhhh... summer!

Okay, okay, so I got a little Pinterest cute with this next one:

Patriotic Berry Lollipops
As my friend Jen says, it's "easy-peasy-lemon-squeezy." Combine softened cream cheese with lime zest, lime juice (just a few drops - don't want to thin out the cream cheese) and confectioners sugar to taste. Stuff inside a hulled strawberry and top with a blueberry. Gently press a lollipop stick through and voilá! You can get really creative by coating the strawberries in melted white chocolate and dipping in red and blue colored sugar but if you're watching your sugar intake these are great as is.

Guacamole Stuffed Tomatoes
Having friends over and want to show off just a little? Guacamole stuffed tomatoes to the rescue! Cut a cocktail tomato in half. Scoop out seeds. Stuff with guacamole. Act like it took you hours and march outside, holding the tray triumphantly over your head whilst proclaiming, "TAH-DAH!"

Actually, don't do the whole holding the tray aloft thing - these babies will roll off! Just try not to eat them all (mmm... gaucamole!) before your guests arrive. Want to get fancy? Top with kernels of roasted corn and serve with tequila soaked lime wedges half-dipped in salt.

Boozy Berry Parfait
Oh martinis, I miss you so! Now that I'm old(er) my body doesn't like me to drink hard stuff like vodka or tequila. But I have all these beautifully proportioned martini glasses! (Guess I should have invested in mason jars instead). What to do? Well, a little booze goes a long way with me these days so how about a boozy berry parfait? Combine your favorite berries with a tablespoon of Grand Marnier and layer with whipped cream. Martini with a spoon!

Peaches & Cream Tartlets
I know you're accustomed to seeing me make everything from scratch but trust me that there comes a time when it's okay to purchase some ready-made components for a dish. For me that time is when it's 90 degrees and humid out. Perfect time to break out these sweet tart shells from Clearbrook Farms. Get ready for Peaches & Cream Tartlets!

Combine sliced peaches with cinnamon and peach liqueur. Set aside. Brush ready-made mini tartlets with raspberry jam and fill with peaches. Top with a dollop of whipped cream and a dusting of cinnamon. Attempt portion control.

I hope these give you some inspiration for your next gathering as well as a reprieve from the stove during the summer. Whether you do something "pinteresting," as Thom says, or you're more disorganized laid-back I hope you have a safe and happy holiday filled with friends, family and food. Oh, and if you are adept at that whole perfectly styled white linen under an oak tree kind of party, invite me over would'ya? I'll bring guacamole stuffed tomatoes.

But I can't promise not to shout "TAH-DAH!" when I arrive.

Enjoy!

*Please thank your local first responders (Fire, Police, & EMS) for being available (i.e. away from their friends, family & food) so everyone else can enjoy peace of mind today. Remember: 911 doesn't close for holidays.

Have you hugged your first responder today?