Pool Party
by Karin CallowayWhether you have a pool or “pool-envy,” this time of year most of us are looking for a way to cool off. Whether you’re the host or the guest, turn your next pool-side gathering into an outright pool party with the help of this menu of summer hors d’oeuvres. Serve them altogether at an island-inspired theme party or individually at an impromptu get together.
Curried Chutney Dip is based on a recipe from the Junior League of Augusta’s Tea-Time at the Masters Second Round. The creamy dip and crisp Watermelon, Tomato and Cucumber salsa are delicious served with homemade Sesame Crisps, but also can be served with store-bought tortilla chips.
Throw some Jerk Shrimp on the grill and serve the shrimp as a pickup appetizer or top the Calypso Chopped Salad with Pineapple-Citrus Dressing with the shrimp as an entrée salad.
Serve with plenty of Jamaican beer, pink lemonade or frozen mango margaritas for an afternoon or evening of pool-side fun.
Recipes:
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Curried Chutney Dip
If you serve this dip to those who think they don’t like curry, they'll quickly change their minds. The creamy dip is flavored with standard “American” curry powder along with mango chutney for far-away flavor. Crystallized ginger adds a spicy-sweet flavor and cashews add crunch.More. -
Jerk Shrimp Skewers
Crank up the Bob Marley, fire up the grill and pop open a Red Stripe. These Jerk Shrimp Skewers will send you and your guests on a trip to Jamaica without the airline ticket.More. -
Calypso Chopped Salad with Pineapple-Citrus Dressing
Chopped salads are in vogue at restaurants around the country, and they’re fun to prepare at home. This Calypso Chopped Salad is packed with tropical flavors and is dressed with a creamy Pineapple-Citrus Dressing. The list of ingredients is long, but preparation is a snap.More. -
Sesame Crisps
Crispy wonton chips pair well with all sorts of dips, but most recipes require frying wonton wrappers in hot oil. You can make the crispy dippers in the oven with a whole lot less mess and fuss.More. -
Watermelon, Tomato, and Cucumber Salsa
There’s nothing like a cold, ripe watermelon on a hot summer day. And while the sweet fruit is delicious served alone, it makes a crisp addition to a chunky summer salsa.More.