Ah, summer. It’s the perfect season to get outdoors and make memories with your family. There’s just something about the season that brings a smile to your face and a feeling of blissful content – maybe it’s the gorgeous sunlight brightening your day, the delicious, summer-fresh food or the endless adventures just waiting to be had in the warm weather.
Whatever summer pleasures are lined up for you this season, get creative and explore something new. Here are a few delectable recipes and delightful activities to get you started.
The Ultimate BBQ
Would it even be summer without barbecue? Fire up the grill, grab your favorite cocktail or mocktail and gather the family for a cookout. Try your hand at this Walnut Romesco Sauce. Perfect for summer grilling, this flavorful sauce is so delicious and perfect drizzled over grilled summer vegetables or steaks.
Your BBQ would be nothing without a side dish, and what better partner than a watermelon salad? This Watermelon, Feta and Walnut Salad is a refreshing summer salad that comes together quickly and has plenty of flavor and texture. Let marinate for up to an hour to maximize the fresh flavors.
Despite the mouthwatering meals of the classic BBQ, there’s more to it than just the food. As you and your family sit around the table, bust out the empty halved walnut shells. With a little paint and some inspiration from the great outdoors, you and your kids can make tiny creatures out of the shells. Ladybugs, bees, bunnies – the options are endless! Not only will you make some great memories, but you’ll also help your child bring out their creative side.
A Classic Campout
Make this summer about the great outdoors – from the comfort of your own backyard. To celebrate the season, do something special like a campout in the backyard. With the tent pitched, some firewood gathered and the twinkling night sky to gaze upon, a campout is a perfect occasion for some good old-fashioned family time.
No campout is complete without dessert! As you gather around the campfire, surprise the family with these Red, White and Blueberry S’mores. With minimal preparation and maximum deliciousness, this fruity, gooey treat will both look and taste like fireworks in your mouth.
Once you get the marshmallow goo and blueberry stain off your kids’ hands, grab a flashlight and your favorite board games to wind down. If you’re like most people though, your old games are probably missing a piece or two. Not to worry, those walnut shells come in handy again. Use the shells as tokens to keep the fun and friendly competition going.
A Family Picnic
Longer summer days mean more free time to catch up with family. To be an impeccable host, you need a stellar menu and nifty decorations.
As you’re prepping the main course, break out a cheese board for the family to snack on. Adding these Toasted Spiced Walnuts to your appetizer spread will help keep the group satisfied without ruining any appetites. They’re a savory snack for the whole family to munch on while waiting.
No picnic is complete without a little pizzazz. Taking some inspiration from your children’s crafts, paint some cute critters on walnut shells, stick them in a bouquet of wildflowers and voilà! You have a picnic table centerpiece that speaks to the season and your menu.
The summer season is full of adventure, making it the perfect time to try new recipes and create amazing masterpieces with friends and family. All you have to do is get creative!
