A Tale of Two Salmon and Tequila for All

Hello Summer Foodies,

Surviving the dog days of summer? I have a couple of great salmon recipes for you. For all you barbecue lovers, the first recipe is an effort to play down the fishy-ness of the salmon, by glazing it with barbecue sauce and putting it in a hoagie bun. Just open wide, close your eyes and savor…prepare to become a serious fan of my Barbecued Salmon Hoagie!!

The second recipe is based on the classic French preparation for poached salmon. I must admit that I am inspired by the film Julie & Julia. You must see this movie – just be aware that the popcorn in your lap will not satisfy your appetite whilst immersed in all of the amazing food scenes! If, like me, you were inspired by the Bœuf bourguignon, but find it just a little too heavy for the summer heat, this delicate dish of Poached Salmon with Piquant Mustard Sauce is a fine substitute.

Now, for the tequila tale:

When my kids were here for the 4th of July celebration this summer, we concocted a cocktail that turned out to be a BIG hit! You might want to serve this festive, summer drink at your Labor Day picnic, and, since you have to start a couple of weeks in advance, I’m offering it to you now!

In a beverage server, or sealable large glass container, layer wedges of watermelon and fresh cherries. Fill the container to the top with your favorite tequila. Place the top onto the container and walk away. Over several days, you can watch as the fruit absorbs both liquor and sweet summer flavors. Let everything marinate together for at least a week and longer if you like.

We used our fruit flavored tequila to make “Watermelon Margaritas”. Prepare the base for the cocktail by emulsifying the inside of a seedless watermelon. We mushed up (this is a highly technical culinary term – not used by Julia in any of her 700 pages) two large watermelons for our big 4th of July bash. Add two or more large cans of lime concentrate to the watermelon slush. You can prepare this base in advance. Pour it into a large container and refrigerate.
For Watermelon Margaritas, take a lime wedge and run it around the rim of a margarita glass. Combine margarita salt with a bit of granulated sugar and place onto a small plate or into a shallow bowl. Dip the rim of the glass into the salt/sugar combo. Pour the slush mixture into the glass. Top with a drizzle of Triple Sec Liqueur and a generous splash of fruit flavored tequila. Top with a fresh, pitted cherry. What a refreshing summer party starter!!

Remember you can share your comments and recipes right here. I love to hear from you.

Until then, as Julia says, “Bon Appétit”!