We are officially in cookout season YAY!
For my neighbours to the south, Memorial Day weekend is coming up, which means sometime in the next two weeks someone is going to text you: “just bring whatever.”
And then you have a decision to make.
You can absolutely be the person who shows up with chips and wine (a noble role, frankly), OR you can be the person who shows up with the thing everyone crowds around before the burgers are even done.
This roundup is for the second person.
Sixteen recipes that will absolutely disappear first, plus seven non-food summer things I’ll be keeping by the door all season long: cute coolers that don’t look like coolers, sunglasses slightly nicer than the gas station ones, and a cheeky little hat that starts conversations.
the food
drunken raisin and crushed olive crostini
crispy buffalo tofu with blue cheese dip
spanakopita rolls with lemony dip
pineapple coconut shrimp “ceviche” tostadas
watermelon halloumi salad with chili
hot or cold ravioli pasta salad
dirty martini warm potato salad
warm potato salad with bbq chicken, corn & scallion ranch
grilled carrots with dilly feta sauce
brown butter skillet cornbread with whipped blueberry butter
strawberry pistachio sugar cookie skillet
strawberry coconut trifle pudding
the non-food
Because what you bring the food in and what you’re wearing while bringing it counts for surprisingly a lot.
hotdog baseball hat: yes really. Conversation starter, sun protection, instant vibe.
quince sunglasses: will be wearing these alllll summer (and they’re on saaale!)
polarbox cooler: lug your snacks in style. The perfect size to bring some small snacks to a bbq. Save the giant Coleman for the beach days.
Ikea cooler bag: for a more budget friendly option I love this bag. It’s under $20, surprisingly chic, and big enough to be the workhorse of the day.
citronella candle: the gas-station Off! spray has a place. But that place is not on the table next to the cheese plate.
fishy serving platter: cute food deserves cute serveware!
tupperware bowls: vintage and cute, lids that actually match, and you'll use them every week for the next decade. There’s a reason our moms loved it.
That’s 23. Pick one, pick five, or hey, just grab the wine and chips and save these for YOURSELF! Whatever you bring, any effort will be felt.
Have a great week Xx