We will be featuring exciting new articles chocked full of creative ideas for all your entertaining needs compliments of our friends at DinnerwareCenter.com. check out these great ideas for using fresh herbs when you host casual, at-home events for family & friends:
By Kathy Hester
With spring, my perennial herbs peek back out and set my spirit on track. To me there is no better season to eat, garden, and entertain. As soon as my mint shows its face, I’m ready to make a few mojitos and have friends over on my deck.
The beauty of having an herb garden, no matter how small, is to be able to come up with concoctions depending on what you have the most of that day. If you’re like me, you like to try out new cocktails when you go out. In my area, there are a ton of bartenders playing with savory herbs in traditionally sweet drinks. One of my favorites has muddled strawberries, basil, citrus vodka, and homemade lemonade.
Try infusing simple syrups with rosemary, thyme, lemon balm, or lemon verbena. Then you can mix and match the liquor you have on hand with them. Also be bold and try any unusual herbs you grow. Who knows, you might invent your own favorite drink!
You can also make non-alcoholic drinks with your new simple syrups. At my cocktail parties, I always have a non-alcoholic version of my drink of the evening. You can even brighten up a plain sparkling water just by muddling a little orange mint in the bottom of the glass, and any drink looks festive with a sprig of fresh green in it.
Even if you are just throwing a cocktail party, you’ll need some nibbles. Try making a white bean dip with garlic chives and a little oregano blended in. Make a salsa with fresh cilantro – it’s super easy and surprisingly inexpensive when you make it yourself. I love goat cheese and make a spread with lemon thyme and a tiny bit of chopped fresh rosemary. It’s great on mini pizzas. Vietnamese summer rolls are great for parties because you can make them ahead of time. Roll in some cilantro and Thai basil or try some lime mint for a change of pace.
I like to plate the dips and other appetizers in my best Noritake china. Garnish with more fresh herbs and edible flowers to make it really special.
