Think of summer and at some point you are bound to conjure up images of a backyard barbeque and all the food that comes along with it. Burgers, ice cream, and s’mores: the works. However, while this is all considered to be classic Americana fare, you don’t have to stick to the old-school methods of food preparation. Summer is the perfect time for trying new things, so why not start with a bold menu?
Buffalo-Blue Curly Cheese Fry and Black Bean Burgers
Do you ever get a little disappointed when the main course at the party is a dismal burger on a soggy bun? Avoid that pain by piling on all of the crazy toppings (and by swapping out the basic burger for a flavorful veggie one). Fries on the side? No, I think you mean fries right on top. Sliced American cheese? Scratch that- you’re going to want buffalo cheese sauce. Dig in.
Ice cream sandwiches: the quintessential pool party dessert. You could reach into your freezer for one, but you could also make your own, and you could make it on a donut. With the major donut craze that’s sweeping the nation, it won’t be hard to get your hands on a fancy artisanal donut. Slice it in half, add a scoop of your favorite ice cream, and voila; dessert is served.
Everyone knows the formula for the perfect s’more: graham crackers, marshmallows, and some chocolate. It’s such a simple recipe (if you can even call it that), which means there’s ample room for improvising. Next time you have a perfectly toasted marshmallow, slide it between two cookies. You could even twist open an Oreo- I promise you won’t regret it.