Backyard Beach Party Recipes

Photography by Jami Wright and Food Styling by Terry Cylkowski

The Menu

Snacks
A variety of cheese, crackers, chips and special dips.

Main Course
Shrimp, mussels, clams, and sweet corn, wrapped in corn husk packets, steamed in garlic white wine sauce on the grill.

Sides
An assortment of vegetables, such as cherry tomatoes, carrots, cauliflower, broccoli, red, yellow, and green peppers, scallions, squash, purple cabbage and radishes, is transformed into a healthy, edible centerpiece for the main table. Additional veggie trays are served with spicy habanero cream cheese and artichoke dips, and hummus.

Healthful Recipes

By Christiane Francin

Creamy Carrot Soup

Enjoy the vibrant orange color and sweetness of fresh carrots, combined with the fragrant aroma of saffron and garlic. Healthy and tasty, this delicious soup makes an ideal appetizer or starter for any meal. All organic vegetables were used in this recipe and may be purchased at Choices Natural Market, our local health food store on the Island of Venice.

Cute Eats, Healthy Treats

Written by Betsy A. Eno

If you’re looking for a unique way to serve up some fun, nutritious treats for your kids, grandchildren or luncheon guests, we’ve got some clever creations that are sure to capture their attention. By combining a few simple ingredients and a little imagination, you can make entertaining food that will be a hit with everyone!

Tropical Coconut Surprise...

By Christiane Francin

Experience sweet fruit, dipped in cream and rolled in coconut.

Little Green Bites of Delight

A St. Patrick's Culinary Celebration

Recipes and Photography by Peggy Bucholz of FineDinings.com

Try these gourmet delicacies to add a flavorful bit of green to your St. Patrick’s Day.

Lime Rose Garnishes
1 whole lime

Starting at the top of the lime, use a sharp knife and cut the green rind only without any white skin, making a 1/2-inch to 3/4-inch wide continuous unbroken strip. Roll the strip, skin-side out, into a tight circle; turn upside down and set on a serving plate.

Tempting and Sweet Valentine Indulgences

One bite of these moist and delicious treats, and you’ll fall head over heels in love.

Yellow Cake with Strawberry Filling and Strawberry Glaze

Cake Ingredients
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
2-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1-1/2 tsp. baking powder
1/4 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
1-1/2 cups sugar
2 tsp. vanilla extract
3 large eggs, at room temperature
1 cup whole milk