and gathering friends and family to enjoy dining alfresco. The secret to effortless summer entertaining is to use tried and trusted ingredients that complement the flavors of your favorite seasonal foods. Try these tips to prepare tasty meals outdoors for the whole family. Prepare Always clean thegrill with a wire brush and heatit for at least 20 minutes before cooking. Keep food in the refrigerator until the grill is ready. Marinate fish and meat before cooking to add flavor and zing. Try Crosse & Blackwell zesty Seafood Cocktail Sauce to complement succulent seafood like fresh shrimp, crab andlobster. It can also be used to lend a lively accent to salad dressings and pasta dishes. Cook Use a meat thermometer. The U.S. Department of Agriculture advises cooking red meat to a minimum internal temperature of 145 F. Ground meats should be cooked to 160 F and poultry to 165 F. Always place cooked food on a clean plate so it doesn’t come in contact with uncooked meat juices. Wrap leftovers and refrigerate within two hoursof cooking. Remember, the grill isn’t just for meat. Experiment with vegetables to add a delicious and colorful punchto the plate. Slice zucchini, egeplant, squash, onions and peppers, then coat with a tablespoon of olive oil and seasonings before cooking. Skewer vegetables with meat to make kebabs or add them to salads and sidedishes. Fruits make great grill mates, too. The caramelized flavors of The whole family can enjoy tasty grilled meals. grilled apples, peaches, pineapple and bananas are delicious served with fresh cream or a scoop of gelato. Enjoy To add vibrant flavor and gourmetflair to grilled food, side dishes, pasta and buns, consider condiments such as salty capers or tropical chutney. Crosse & Blackwell Major Grey’s Chutney is fruity and full bodied, combining choice herbs, spices and luscious tropical fruits and vegetables. It makes for a delicious appetizer when poured over cream cheese or can serve as a unique marinadefor pork or chicken. Learn More For recipe ideas, such as BBQ Chicken with Citrus Relish, and 1000 Island Salad Dressing, download the free “Crosse & Blackwell 2014 Guide to Summer Dining” at www.crosseandblack well.com/recipes.
