Outdoor Dining

From orchard to table, apples bring flavor for the perfect picnic Strawberry Banana Smoothie Ice PopsBaked Apple Pie Layer BarsSpiced Pork and Apple Burger with Maple DijonApple Tortellini Salad (Family Features) There’s nothing like the perfect picnic or barbecue to slow down and reconnect with friends and family. This season, gather together guests and surprise them with a rustic backyard picnic, starring delicious new recipes that bring out the flavor of apples – a versatile and healthy year-round fruit. Filled with healthy antioxidants, fiber, vitamins and minerals, apples add a flavorful twist to classic picnic fare. For a refreshing treat that both kids and adults will love, try the Strawberry Banana Smoothie Popsicle, made with Tree Top Apple Juice. Or grill some Spiced Pork and Apple Burgers with Maple Dijon, made with Tree Top Apple Sauce for a lean and juicy burger. For more recipes and inspiration, visit www.treetop.com. Designing a Backyard Party Is Easy Set the scene with the right décor and a little bit of creativity – and let nature take care of the rest. Find vintage plates and serving pieces at a local flea market. Serve beverages in Mason jars, which can also be used as flower … Continue reading →

A Celebration of Sides: Barbeque Bests

Brownie ‘n Berries Dessert Pizza Greek Tossed Pasta Salad Red, White and Blueberry Pasta Salad S’mores Brownies (Family Features) When you’re loading up the family for a big barbeque celebration, be sure to load up a variety of freshly-made salads and deliciously decadent brownies. Whether pasta salads, potato salads or even those leafy greens, this side favorite is a perfect accompaniment to juicy grilled burgers, brats and steaks. Because this savory barbeque fare can bring out anyone’s sweet tooth, don’t forget to dish out the desserts. Adding your favorite nuts, fruit and candy toppings to a rich, gooey brownie can melt the hearts of guests as easily as the hot summer sun. The best part about bringing a salad or brownie dessert – besides both being flavorful barbeque staples – most can be prepared the night before. This gives you more time to focus on the important things, like grilling your next culinary masterpiece and hanging out with your family. For more tips on what to bring to your next barbeque, visit www.bettycrocker.com/brownies and www.suddenlysalad.com. Brownie ‘n Berries Dessert Pizza Ingredients 1 box (1 lb. 2.4 oz.) Betty Crocker® Original Supreme Premium brownie mix Water, vegetable oil and egg called … Continue reading →

Simply Smarter Grilling

Grilled Avocados with Vegetable RelishItalian Summer KabobsHawaiian Turkey Burger (Family Features) Nice weather means it’s time to fire up the grill. To enjoy dining al fresco any time, make your kitchen grill-ready with essentials for your pantry, fridge and freezer. Stock up now on fresh meats and produce, as well as cool drinks and frozen treats to keep you outside and grilling all season long. The best part? Your backyard barbecue doesn’t have to be expensive. For inspiration, try these grilling favorites from food stylist and loyal ALDI shopper Janice Stahl, who saves up to 50 percent by shopping at ALDI: Create a sophisticated summer dinner in no time by placing raw salmon, fresh lemon slices and a mix of chopped tomatoes, garlic, basil and red onion on a piece of aluminum foil; seal it to create a packet and throw it on the grill. Use a teriyaki marinade to add a kick to your chicken breasts and step up your grilling game with bacon-wrapped beef filets or marinated pork loin. Put a spin on the classic burger with Alaskan salmon or ground turkey patties. With these simple tips and recipes, you’ll be ready to show off your grilling expertise … Continue reading →