Memorial Day is here, marking the moment we step into summer. Up here in the north, plans for summer outings include biking on terrific trails, boating on crystal clear lakes, canoeing down lazy rivers, and definitely dining al fresco.
Whether you find yourself at a picnic or simply in your backyard, dining in the fresh air should be a lovely, notable experience. To enhance the al fresco experience, bring the indoors outside. Utilize crisp linens and beautiful glassware instead of the traditional picnic paper goods. This is easily accomplished in your own yard as everything can be set up outside without much trouble.
Simply spread a white tablecloth over a table outside, hold it down with unusual rocks set in the corners, and set the table in a traditional manner or buffet style. You can enhance the atmosphere with unique serving pieces. Present a summer punch served in an attractive bowl punctuated with slices of lemons and limes. During the day, utilize fresh flowers from your yard for a centerpiece. In the evening, candles always add a nice touch to your al fresco dining experience. Don’t forget music; it adds so much to the ambiance. Breakfast, lunch, or dinner will be a beautiful experience al fresco.
“He has made everything beautiful in its time…” – Ecclesiastes 3:11
Crystal Punch
Raspberries
Ice mold (any kitchen mold will do; I use antique copper molds)
Equal amounts of ginger ale and white grape juice (adjust according to taste)
Thinly sliced lemons and limes
Mint leaves for garnishing
Several hours ahead of time, freeze raspberries in pretty molds filled with water or white grape juice. If you choose to freeze grape juice, you will not dilute your punch when you add the ice molds. Pour equal amounts of ginger ale and white grape juice into a punch bowl (some cake plates invert into a pretty punch bowl). Add the ice mold and garnish with the fruit slices and mint leaves.