“Creating a seamless summer party is all about preparation,” says Nate Berkus, noted interior designer and artistic advisor to LG Studio. “I always tell people the most important thing is that everyone, including the host, is enjoying themselves. Make sure you brew coffee ahead of time, set out a pitcher of lemonade and decorate with a bouquet of fresh flowers. Don’t over-complicate anything from food to decor, and everything else will fall into place.”

1. Be prepared

You don’t want to be sweating the small details once the party gets started. Have your food and beverage options ready to go before guests even step in the door. Bake pastries ahead of time, brew coffee and order in from your favorite restaurant, and set it all up on the kitchen counter or island. Put silverware and glassware out, buffet-style; it’s so much easier than trying to coordinate a sit-down dinner. Plus, your guests can help themselves so you get to mingle and enjoy yourself as well.

You’ll immediately elevate a summer beverage like lemonade by adding lavender or berries, and serving it in a chic glass pitcher. “I love to create a signature cocktail at any party I host – it just feels special,” Berkus says. “Set up a bar cart in the corner with other drink options, linen napkins and gold stirrers and let guests refill as they need.”

2. Simplify the menu

The secret to any great party is choosing menu items that you can prepare ahead and that will totally wow your guests.

“I don’t cook but luckily I have great friends – and a husband – who do,” Berkus says. “My good friend Athena Calderone of Eyeswoon makes this amazing Spinach and Goat Cheese Frittata that’s perfect to serve any size group – from two to 10. It’s truly the perfect entree for a Sunday brunch. I’m sharing the recipe because you’re going to want to try it.”

When you’re in the kitchen, make sure you’ve got the right tools and equipment – dependable appliances are a must.

“The new line of appliances from LG Studio that I helped design combines the highest quality in design with the best of the best in terms of functionality,” Berkus says. “It features a timeless, pro-style design that you’ll love today and 10 years from now, along with flexible performance.”

For example, the new double wall oven from LG Studio can help you cook like a pro in your own home with features like an exclusive four-mode ”true convection” technology for even heat distribution and even cooking on every rack, along with a gliding rack system that extends over the open oven door for easy and safe access to food.

3. Style seamlessly

Pick a color scheme and stick to it, then mix in neutral and wovens with things like napkin rings and small vases to create interesting texture that won’t overpower your guests. Floral arrangements or touches of greenery are a great nod to summer and will dress up any table.

“I love blushes and naturals for summer parties; it feels really fresh and inviting,” Berkus says. “As far as greenery goes, I’m loving potted succulents and air plants. They create unexpected moments, and are a talking point. Green branches in vases are another great way to add height and color.”

4. Repurpose the things you love

You want your party decor to be on-point, but every party has a budget.

“I always tell people to use what they already have,” Berkus says. “Pull things from around your house, like vases, trays, ceramics bowls, etc. They’ll look great whether repurposed for the buffet table, or incorporated into the tablescape.”

If it’s an outdoor party, think about using your favorite lamps, throw pillows or even a rug outside to elevate the decor and really set the scene for your gathering.

These few simple steps are the key to creating a beautiful, seamless summer gathering that your guests will talk about for months to come. And the most important thing to remember is to enjoy the moment.

Athena Calderone’s recipe:

Spinach and Goat Cheese Frittata

Ingredients:

1/2 pound baby potatoes

10 large eggs

1/3 cup creme fraiche

3/4 teaspoon salt

3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1 leek, halved lengthwise, rinsed and thinly sliced

1 spring onion, thinly sliced

2 cups lightly packed baby spinach

3 ounces goat cheese

Handful torn parsley

Handful chopped dill

Handful chopped chives

Salt and pepper

Directions:

Heat the oven to 350 F. Boil the potatoes until fork-tender. When cool enough to handle, thinly slice.

Whisk together the eggs, creme fraiche and salt.

Heat the oil in a 10-inch skillet, cast iron or non-stick, over medium heat. Add the leek and onion and saute until translucent. Add the potatoes and cook another few minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Stir in the spinach and cook just until wilted. Pour in the egg mixture and cook for a few minutes, pushing the cooked eggs to the center of the pan. Place in the oven and cook just until set, about 12-15 minutes.

Cool slightly. Garnish with fresh herbs.

The post How to throw a seamless summer gathering first appeared on The How Do Gardener.

Having an organized closet makes life easier – both in the morning rush to get out the door and also when trying to find something fabulous for a special occasion.

Digging through shoes or clothes that are not appropriate for cooler weather hinders efficiency and can be frustrating. Use a second closet or plan to store summer clothing in the garage or attic. Follow a few simple tips to ensure clothing comes out of storage next spring in ready-to-wear shape.

* Before storing an item, make sure you will wear it again next year. If it does not fit, is worn out or has lost its fashion appeal, place the shirt, shorts or other clothing item into a “donate” or “throw-away” pile.

* Look over the pieces that will go into storage. Fix buttons or hem lengths now. Then, wash or dry clean everything – make sure the pockets are empty.

* Inventory all clothing and shoes. This will help determine how many storage bags or containers will be needed. Clear plastic containers make it easy to see what is inside, while space-saving plastic bags that allow excess air to be removed can hold bulkier items. Take advantage of seasonal sales to ensure the best price. More money saved now means more money available to spend on the wardrobe later.
* When storing in containers, place a dryer sheet between clothing items to help keep them smelling fresh when brought out of storage in the spring.

* Be mindful of the garment bags and paper products used to store or wrap up fabrics. Plastic dry cleaner bags do not allow fabric to breathe and some papers are acidic, which can cause your clothing to yellow over time.

* To help clothes retain their shape until next spring, carefully fold each item and stack with the heaviest items on bottom. To prevent unnecessary wrinkling, avoid stuffing the pile into the container.

* Keep bugs from snuggling in for the winter and damaging clothing. When the temperatures are low, we are not the only ones spending more time indoors. Insects make there way into your home through cracks and crevices to ride out the cold. Protect any items placed in storage from these home invaders with Ortho Home Defense MAX Perimeter & Indoor Insect Killer. Apply per directions for use by simply spraying a barrier around the exterior perimeter of the home to help keep pests out. Also apply indoors to the perimeter of any storage areas. Doing so will provide up to 12 months of control indoors for listed insects.

* Mice can also harm stored clothing by shredding and staining fabrics. Place Ortho Home Defense Max No Touch Bait Stations along the walls of the basement, attic or garage to protect belongings from possible mouse infestations. These stations are pre-filled so there’s no need to touch the bait.

Proper storage of clothing during the winter months will lead to fewer headaches when it is time to unpack. Following these simple steps can help avoid the frustration of a wardrobe overhaul due to damaged clothing next spring.

The post Tips for Storing Summer Clothes During the Winter Months first appeared on The How Do Gardener.

To help make your next summer soiree stress free, try a few of these simple tips:

* Season and marinade your meat and vegetables the night before so all that’s left to do is fire up the grill. Be prepared for entertaining all year round by storing your own unique, dry seasoning blend in an empty salt shaker. Just shake, grill and enjoy.

* Put a unique spin on traditional pasta salad by swapping out your regular white pasta variety in favor of Ronzoni Garden Delight Pasta. Ronzoni Garden Delight pasta is the only great-tasting tri-colored pasta with the added bonus a full serving of vegetables in every four-ounce portion. It’s a great way to sneak in a healthy dose of veggies without anyone noticing.

* Take your meal outdoors and pack a picnic. Opt for coolers with handles and wheels that allow you to transport heavier foods easily. You can also purchase picnic baskets complete with a shoulder strap, glasses, plates, silverware, napkins and even a tablecloth.

* If you’re looking to lighten things up this summer, swap the mayonnaise found in your traditional pasta salad with fat-free Greek yogurt. Not only will this lower the calories in your salad but it will also add a unique and tangy punch of flavor.

* Summer salads are as much about the texture as they are about the taste. Incorporate seasonal fruits and vegetables like asparagus, grapes, apples and broccoli for a fresh and satisfying crunch.

If you’re looking to spice up your usual summer salad, this Southwest Chicken Pasta Salad offers a delicious combination of fresh salsa, hearty beans and sharp cheddar cheese.

Southwest Chicken Pasta Salad
Serves: 8 to 10

Ingredient:
1 box (12 ounces) Ronzoni Garden Delight Penne Pasta
1 cup prepared salsa
8 ounces plain low-fat yogurt
2 cups cooked, diced chicken
1 can (15 ounces) corn, drained
1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained
1/2 cup green onions, sliced
1 can (2.25 ounces) black olives, drained
1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
Tortilla chips, optional

Directions:
Prepare pasta according to package directions. In a medium bowl, whisk together salsa and yogurt. In a large bowl combine pasta, chicken, corn, black beans, green onions and black olives. Fold in dressing. Top with cheddar cheese and cilantro. Serve with tortilla chips, if desired.

The post Tips to Keep your Summer Entertaining Menus Easy first appeared on The How Do Gardener.

“Extremely hot weather can make it difficult – but not impossible – to enjoy your outdoor living spaces,” says Rick Kelly, an outdoor cooling expert with KuulAire, makers of portable evaporative coolers. “Fortunately, some inexpensive outdoor updates can help you enjoy your patio, deck or garden even on the hottest dog days of summer.”

Here are some tips to help keep your outdoor living spaces cool and comfortable throughout the summer:

Your interior decor is designed to make the inside of your home an inviting space, with a controlled temperature and comfortable furnishings. You can create the same effect in your outdoor living space.

Replace hard plastic resin furniture or iron pieces that become griddle-like in the heat with furnishings that echo the comfort and beauty of your indoor furniture. Elevate the luxurious feeling of your outdoor furniture by adding plush cushions, floor coverings and accent lighting. Draping your patio or deck with light, sheer fabric evokes the feeling of curtains and helps keep insects away.

When scorching days drive you inside, you savor the cool comfort of air conditioning. You can air-condition your backyard, patio or deck, too – with a portable evaporative cooler. KuulAire offers two models, the KA77 and KA55, which are both rated for outdoor use. The units can significantly lower the temperature in 150 to 600 square feet of outdoor living space – and use less electricity than it takes to run a typical hair dryer. Wheels and casters make it easy to move the units to where you need them most.

Don’t overlook how outdoor decor can help elevate the comfort quotient of a patio or deck. Decorative citronella candles smell and look great, and serve a practical purpose by helping keep bugs away. A tabletop fountain adds a merry sound to your outdoor environment, enhancing the feeling of relaxation. Choose colors and patterns that echo the design elements you most love about your interior design.

Cooking is another important element of summer fun and many summer foods are comforting. When temperatures soar, who wants to slave over a hot grill? Replace traditional barbecue foods that require grilling with no-cook options like fruits and vegetables. Consider preparing naturally cooling foods, like smoothies and cucumber salad. Invest in coolers or portable refrigerators if you’ll be storing food outside. If you simply must grill, be sure to keep it away from furnishings, flammable materials and perishable foods.

“With gas prices high and the economy still recovering, many of us will probably stay home again this summer, rather than invest in costly summer vacations,” Kelly says. “It’s often less expensive and more satisfying to improve outdoor spaces with upgrades that will last the whole summer, than to spend a lot on a few days of travel.”

The post Cool Tips for Beating Summer Heat in Outdoor Spaces first appeared on The How Do Gardener.

Whether you have a packed social calendar complete with weddings, birthday parties and family reunions, or you just spontaneously decided to throw a backyard barbecue on Friday night, your network of friends will likely play a big role in your plans. Lifestyle expert Lisa Gurry offers these tips with the help of Bing.com on how to socialize your summer, so whether you’re planning, hosting or simply attending an event, you won’t have to go it alone.

Hectic-free hosting: Let’s face it – planning and hosting an event can be stressful. But no one expects you to be Martha Stewart, so embrace the craziness of entertaining and enlist help from your friends. Your guests will feel more comfortable if they get to be a part of the preparation. Consider these tips for hectic-free hosting, and allow the stress to turn into laughter so you can enjoy the party too.

*Do your homework. Line up the menu early so you have time to do your grocery shopping, baking and set-up prior to the day of the party. The last thing you need is a tray of burnt cookies one hour before guests arrive.

*Pot-luck parties are a great way to divvy up preparation and shorten the length of your to-do list. The vibe will feel more casual and guests will get to enjoy a unique variety of dishes on the table.

*Set the mood with some easy decorations and a killer playlist, and get input from your Facebook friends with Bing’s shared shopping lists. They can help you choose between inflatable palm trees and mini tiki torches, and Carry Underwood or Dave Matthews Band. Everyone wins.

Show up in style: A guest’s job is typically to make themselves comfortable and have a great time. But there are some unspoken rules to keep in mind to be a gracious guest at this summer’s hottest parties.

*Don’t show up empty-handed or without a smile. Whether you’re bringing a dish to contribute to the barbecue, a gift for the birthday boy or a small token of appreciation for the host, bring something. Personalize your present at Bing.com where you can see what the recipient “likes” best on Facebook, guaranteeing that you’ll impress with your gift selection. You’ll feel so confident with your perfectly wrapped choice; you won’t even need to include a gift receipt. Most importantly, remember that you are at a party – enjoy yourself and let it show.

*Planning to attend with a plus-one? Always be sure to give the host a heads-up. Unexpected party guests can cause awkward conversations and unnecessary stress for the party planner.

Get out of town: Sometimes the best summer events are nowhere near your home town, and weekend getaways are what summer is all about. The days are longer, the temperature is warmer and it’s not unheard of to sneak away from your desk a little early on a Friday afternoon. Now’s the time to embrace your summer travel wishes, so consider these tips to get out of town before summer’s end.

*Pack light. Chances are, wherever you’re headed, it’s going to be warm. Plan to live in your swimsuit, some jean shorts and a few stylish tank tops. The last thing you need to worry about while vacationing at the beach is how you’re going to lug a giant suitcase up three flights of stairs. All you need to have fun is good company and good weather, so leave the closet at home.

*If steep prices have been keeping you on travel lockdown, break free. Opt for a road trip if your destination is close enough. It’ll save you money and provide a great opportunity to belt out your favorite tunes on the road with your closest friends. If driving is not an option, search for flights on Bing and “like” your desired route to receive notifications of great airfare deals to that city directly in your Facebook feed. What’s more, you can find a free place to stay with the Friends Who Live Here feature – Bing will show you which of your friends live in the cities you’re traveling to so you can save your hotel money and catch up with old friends.

*Once you’ve arrived, unplug from status updates, Tweets and text messages. Be present and enjoy the time spent away from real-time updates. Put down the phone and relax – you’re on summer vacation.

The post How to Socialize your Summer with the Help of your Friends first appeared on The How Do Gardener.

Keep it Light
Prepare a series of savory appetizer dishes. Try serving a variety of tea sandwiches, whipped avocado, spinach and veggie dips, or prepare an artisanal cheese plate paired with fresh fruit. Consider a chilled soup using pureed cucumber, fresh herbs, yogurt and sour cream that will have your guests asking for seconds.

Turn Down the Heat
Instead of using the oven, prepare hot food in a slow cooker to decrease temperatures in your kitchen. Because it’s the season for fruits and vegetables, try an arugula, white bean or corn-based salad. To add additional seasonal flavor, toss in fresh herbs like mint or cilantro.

Fire Up the Grill
Nothing says summer quite like a backyard cookout on the grill. Instead of grilling the usual burgers and hot dogs, mix up the spread and grill fresh sliced pineapple or halved peaches. To get your veggie fix, grill peppers, zucchini and onions brushed with olive oil, balsamic vinegar and garlic.

Treat Yourself
Iced coffee is a great way to keep you refreshed and cool. If you love coffee flavor in a cold and indulgent treat, try Starbucks(R) ice cream. Enjoy flavors inspired by your favorite coffeehouse beverages, such as the rich and creamy Java Chip Frappuccino. Reward yourself and relish every bite or serve as a decadent dessert for guests.

Once you have created the perfect summer menu, try this recipe to give your dessert a cool and refreshing twist – it’s sure to impress your guests:

Frozen Tiramisu
Serves 6

20 Italian lady finger cookies
1/2 cup Starbucks espresso or Starbucks coffee, chilled
2 pints Starbucks Coffee Ice Cream, slightly softened
1 cup mascarpone cheese
1 cup heavy or whipping cream
2 tablespoons confectioners sugar
1/4 cup chocolate shavings

Line 10 lady fingers into 8-inch baking dish. Brush with 1/2 of the espresso, then top with half the ice cream; repeat layers. Cover with plastic wrap and freeze one hour or overnight. Beat mascarpone, heavy cream and sugar in large bowl with electric mixer until creamy and whipped. Remove plastic wrap from ice cream, then top with mascarpone mixture and chocolate.

Visit www.starbucksicecream.com to find other Starbucks ice cream desserts and flavors.

The post Summer Entertaining Made Simple and Delicious first appeared on The How Do Gardener.

* Keep it simple. Focus on easy recipes to save time in the kitchen so you can spend more time with family and friends.

* Plan ahead. Begin preparing as many recipes as possible the day before the party to allow for easy and quick preparation the day of the event.

* Make it memorable. According to celebrity chef and entertaining expert, Kathy Casey, you want to invest in the right piece of equipment to provide guests with a great experience. “Whether you’re mixing up cocktails or preparing for a large dinner party, quality kitchen tools, like a reliable Vitamix blender, are essential,” Casey says.

For your summer party, consider a signature cocktail, such as a refreshing margarita made easy in a Vitamix Professional Series 200 machine. This high performance blender does just about anything – finely chops, grinds and blends whole ingredients all in one container – and also comes with a recipe book with more than 200 recipes for extra inspiration.

* Keep it light. Serve lighter foods during the warmer weather. Grilled vegetables, a variety of pasta and green salads, and an assortment of chilled dips and spreads – such as easy-to-make guacamole in a Vitamix – create a delightful summer buffet.

* Make it colorful. Add interest to your buffet table with a variety of colorful foods as well as decorative tableware, such as a bright tablecloth, fun napkins and fresh cut flowers.

With these simple tips and easy entertaining recipes, you can relax and enjoy your summer party just as much as your guests will.

Guacamole
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Processing time: 20 seconds
Yield: 1 1/2 cups

Ingredients:
2 ripe avocados, peeled, pitted
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1/4 cup chopped onion
1 medium tomato, halved
1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves
For a spicy guacamole, add 1/2 a jalapeno pepper during step one.

Directions:
Using a blender, like the Vitamix, place all ingredients into the container in the order listed and secure lid. Blend for 15 to 20 seconds. You may need to stop the machine and run a spatula around the inside of the container to integrate ingredients. Don’t over mix – leave chunky. Serve with tortilla chips and garnish with diced tomato and parsley.

Whole Fruit non-alcoholic Margarita
Preparation time: 7 minutes
Processing time: 45 seconds
Yield: 8 cups

Ingredients:
1/4 cup water
8 ounces sweet and sour mix
1 medium orange, peeled, halved
1 lime, peeled, halved
1 lemon, peeled, halved, seeded
1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons sugar
6 cups ice cubes

Directions:
Place all ingredients into your blender in the order listed and secure lid. Blend for 45 seconds or until smooth. Pour into salt-rimmed margarita glasses and enjoy.

The post Quick Tips for Summer Entertaining Made Easy first appeared on The How Do Gardener.

Donna Duberg, a leading hygiene expert, assistant professor of clinical laboratory science at Saint Louis University and member of the Tork Green Hygiene Council, says increased activity during the summer could foster the spread of germs. “We all want to take advantage of warmer weather by going outside to swim or having family picnics, but it’s important to be mindful of proper hygiene practices to keep your summer healthy and happy. Keeping small steps in mind – like proper hand hygiene and food safety tips – could prevent unwanted illness.”

To ensure you make the best of your summer, follow Duberg’s suggested tips:

Share fun, not your towel
Swimming is a refreshing summertime activity, but it’s important that each member of your family be allotted their own bathing towel. Wet towels harbor germs, and exchanging them among each other can spread unwanted bacteria. Give your kids their own special summer towel in a design or color they love so they can easily distinguish which towel belongs to them.

Don’t let your picnic turn sour
Picnics are a popular perk of summer, but warmer weather allows bacteria to grow more easily on food. The CDC indicates that one in six people will suffer from a foodborne illness. To protect against an unfortunate sickness, make sure you carefully handle food and minimize contaminants, and keep the following tips in mind:
* Before eating or cooking, thoroughly clean all surface areas before placing food on them.
* Place all raw meat in foil and store it away from any ready-to-eat items.
* Sufficiently cook all meat. According to the CDC, cooking meat to 160 degrees Fahrenheit can help kill harmful bacteria.
* If you’re heading to an area that doesn’t have handwashing stations, bring anti-bacterial hand sanitizer.
* Sufficiently cover all food and eating utensils to protect from insects that carry harmful bacteria.
* Stock your picnic with plenty of recycled paper napkins, plates and cups to limit the spread of bacteria.

Stay on the road to healthy living
If you’re planning a family trip this summer, be sure to keep hygiene top of mind when visiting washrooms along your route. Germs can be found anywhere from rest stops to hot dog stands to airport restrooms. When washing your hands in a facility that contains recycled paper towels, you can also use the paper towel to open door handles to keep your newly clean hands as germ-free as possible. If you visit a washroom with a hot air dryer, make sure to dry your hands thoroughly. According to recent research from SCA, a global hygiene and paper company, only 57 percent of hot air dryer users keep their hands under the dryer until they are completely dry. Failure to dry hands properly is a dangerous habit, as wet hands transfer 500 times more germs than dry hands.

Beware of bacteria at food fests
Summer food fests can be lots of fun, but when large crowds are involved hygiene protection becomes more difficult. One way to keep your food fests fun is to consistently wash your hands or use hand sanitizer before you take a bite out of your favorite snack. With food and money rapidly changing hands throughout the gathering, you could be faced with an excess of germs that can make you sick.

Take a trip to the nearest handwashing station or restroom to thoroughly wash and dry your hands to make the most of your outdoor social experience.

For more hand hygiene and sustainability tips from Duberg and the Tork Green Hygiene Council, please visit www.torkgreenhygienecouncil.com.

The post Keep Summer Fun High and Exposure to Germs Low first appeared on The How Do Gardener.

Summer’s top 10 red hot food trends put the emphasis on festive flavors, creative takes on nostalgic treats and making the most of the season’s ingredients. The food experts at Betty Crocker identified the trends and created 10 new recipes that will bring a little extra excitement to your summer get-togethers.

1. Cheeky Tiki: Originally inspired by South Pacific culture, the fun, over-the-top Tiki trend is back in a big way. Tiki drinks like Mai Tais, concocted with rum, are best known for fruity flavors and whimsical garnishes. Try out the trend with Mai Tai Tiki Pops, a grown-up treat that turns the tropical flavors of the classic drink into a fruity ice pop.

2. New takes on cupcakes: Dessert lovers everywhere are inventing new and interesting twists on this classic confection – even looking to retro refrigerator – or “icebox” – desserts for inspiration. Lemon-Ginger Icebox Cookie Cupcakes are actually made with cookies – but they’re stacked between layers of whipped cream and then chilled, which makes the cookies’ texture become cake-like.

3. Spice it up. The new rage in cooking is updating classic foods with new, bold flavor combinations and unexpected cooking techniques. Nowhere is this trend hotter than in re-imagining heritage dishes with ethnic flavor. Take Fresh Sriracha Refrigerator Pickles – they’re a new twist to classic refrigerator pickles with a hot, Thai-inspired sauce that spices up your garden bounty.

4. Move over, meat: If you think meat lovers are having all the fun, think again. Vegetarian eating is gaining popularity. More and more people are seeking meatless options that don’t skimp on flavor. Try out a larger-than-life Monster Veggie Burger that is loaded with fresh vegetables and tasty chickpeas. It moves veggies from side show to center stage.

5. Easy. Freezy. Fun: What would summer be without frozen ice cream treats? This year, let the ice cream truck drive on by and make your own Fruity Fro-Yo Fun Bars. This novelty-inspired dessert has only four ingredients and a few simple steps, so it’s easy to make with the kids. With their fun colors and playful appearance, these treats will tempt both kids and adults to take a bite.

6. Thrillin’ grillin’: Grillmasters everywhere are taking lessons from the tableside preparation trend, using the grill to bring excitement and flavor to unexpected dishes like Grillside Guacamole. Fresh avocados, sweet onions and other tasty veggies take on flavor from grilling, while a sprinkling of Mexican Cotija cheese gives this dish an even more delicious twist.

7. Kid food grows up. The foods that you loved best as a kid always inspire special memories – and none of those are more memorable than the foods of summer. Adding a grown-up twist makes them even better than you remember, like upscale mac and cheese, cocktail-inspired malts or beer snow cones, which are made from granita-style beer “snow” with a drizzle of fruity simple syrup.

8. Pie lovin’: There’s big love for pie right now – 2011 has been declared the “Year of the Pie” and creative interpretations are popping up everywhere. Mini S’mores Hand Pies take everything you love about s’mores – crunchy graham crackers, melty chocolate, ooey-gooey marshmallows  – and put it into a handheld pie pocket that delivers a perfect taste of summer.

9. Backyard green grocer: More people than ever are discovering the delights of “shopping” in their own backyard gardens – or the local farmers market – to create flavorful summer dishes full of their favorite veggies. Green Garden Fries, made from fresh garden veggies, are oven fried and served with a lemony Greek yogurt dipping sauce.

10. Switch up the ‘wich. Sandwiches are the ultimate comfort food, from old favorites like PB&J and grilled cheese to new obsessions like Korean tacos. Greek Grilled Cheese Tacos are one take on this trend. This fun Mediterranean-inspired dish reinvents the familiar grilled cheese sandwich in taco form, with grilled Greek haloumi cheese, fresh veggies and herbs stuffed in a flour tortilla.

Find these summer recipes and more at www.bettycrocker.com/redhot.

Mai Tai Tiki Pops

Prep time: 20 minutes
Start to finish: 11 hours, 20 minutes

Coconut Colada Layer
1 container (6 ounces) Yoplait Original 99 percent Fat Free pina colada or key lime pie yogurt
1/4 cup canned coconut milk, well stirred (not cream of coconut)
1 teaspoon dark rum

Mango Mai Tai Layer
1 fresh mango, peeled, pitted and cubed (about 1 cup)
3 tablespoons sugar
3/4 cup mango nectar, chilled
2 tablespoons dark rum
2 tablespoons light rum
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1 tablespoon orange liqueur
1 teaspoon amaretto liqueur

1. In small bowl, beat coconut colada layer ingredients with whisk until smooth. Divide mixture among six 5-ounce paper cups. Cover with foil; insert craft stick (flat wooden stick with round ends) through foil into center of pop. Freeze two to three hours or until frozen.

2. Meanwhile, in blender, place mango mai tai layer ingredients. Cover; blend on medium speed about 45 seconds, stopping frequently to scrape sides, until smooth. Cover and refrigerate while waiting for first layer to freeze.

3. When first layer is frozen, remove foil from pops. Pour mango mixture over frozen layer. Return foil to pops to help support sticks. Freeze about eight hours or until frozen before serving. Store remaining pops covered in freezer.

Makes 6 tiki pops.

Lemon-Ginger Icebox Cookie Cupcakes

Prep time: 1 hour, 10 minutes
Start to finish: 12 hours, 40 minutes

Cookies
1 pouch (1 lb 1.5 ounces) Betty Crocker sugar cookie mix
1/2 cup butter, softened
1 egg
1 tablespoon grated lemon peel
1/3 cup finely chopped crystallized ginger

Filling
2 cups whipping cream
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla

1. In medium bowl, stir cookie mix, butter, egg and lemon peel until soft dough forms. Stir in crystallized ginger. Divide dough in half. On waxed paper, shape each half into 8-inch-long roll. Wrap in waxed paper. Freeze about one hour or refrigerate about three hours until firm enough to slice.

2. Heat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Using a sharp, thin-bladed knife, cut each roll into 32 (1/8-inch-thick) slices. Rotate roll while cutting to prevent flattening. On ungreased cookie sheets, place slices 1 inch apart. Bake 9 to 11 minutes, or until edges are light brown. Cool one minute; remove to cooling rack. Cool completely, about 30 minutes.

3. In chilled deep small bowl, beat filling ingredients with electric mixer on high speed until stiff peaks form. On tray, place 16 cookies right sides up. Spread 1 tablespoon whipped cream on top of each cookie, then top with another cookie. Repeat with remaining cookies and cream, making four layers of cookies and ending with a layer of cream. Place each cookie cupcake in a decorative cupcake liners. Cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate at least eight hours. Garnish with raspberries, strawberries and blueberries, if desired.

Makes 16 cookie stacks.

The post Red Hot Food Trends: Summer Fun Comes to the Table first appeared on The How Do Gardener.

“With the higher gas prices and tough economy, many people are looking for ways to dazzle their guests without spending a lot of money,” says Keith Winkler, product marketing manager with Replacements, Ltd., billed as the world’s largest retailer of old and new china, crystal, silver and collectibles. “Start by rethinking how you use your tableware. So many people only use their fine patterns for special occasions and then they’re locked into thinking you can only use a certain piece for its intended purpose. By thinking creatively, you can find so many more uses that aren’t only pretty; but also a great conversation starter.”

Winkler says iced tea glasses are perfect for parfaits or fruit salads, while sherbet or champagne glasses are great for serving ice cream or other desserts. Martini glasses make fantastic shrimp cocktails. And don’t be afraid to use larger serving pieces, such as a punch bowl or soup tureen, for holding bread or buns at a cookout; you can also fill those with ice to chill wine and other drinks.

Think fresh

If you need a little inspiration to get you going, look no further than outside your door.

“So many of us work really hard on our flower gardens and unfortunately those tender blossoms just don’t last all that long,” says visual merchandiser Dubravka Vujinovic. “Whether you have large flower beds or just a window box, it’s very easy to let nature be your guide and take advantage of the vibrant seasonal colors and textures by adding flowers and other greenery to your dinner table.”

Fill a clear vase with lemons and add water and fresh flowers. You can even use double old fashioned glasses to create floral arrangements for individual place settings.

Place smooth stones in the bottom of a clear glass pitcher, and use those to anchor a large fresh flower, such as a Gerber daisy. Fill with water for a fantastic accent – you can even float a candle for evening entertaining.

Plant fresh flowers or herbs in cups and saucers to go around the table or kitchen. This not only adds a splash of fresh green color, herbs are handy for healthy cooking.

Another quick summer decorating trick is to place fresh leaves or blossoms flat on a dinner plate, then place a clear glass luncheon or salad plate over the floral design. You can use various colored plates, leaves or flowers to create unique designs for each guest.

Arrange candles and flowers or even sand and sea shells on cake stands to use as table centerpieces or accents for any room of your home.

Vujinovic says you can easily give your table a fresh look by simply using colored glass plates, or adding an accent plate you can change seasonally to complement your everyday dinnerware. Hot color trends for summer 2011 include bright vibrant colors such as coral, turquoise and honeysuckle.

You can find more of Vujinovic’s design tips on Replacements’ YouTube Channel, or the company’s website, replacements.com.

The post Fresh Ideas for Summer Entertaining first appeared on The How Do Gardener.