Toni Therrien
Simple Summer Recipes

As we near the end of summer, and the last days of weekends by the pool, let's celebrate with something delicious, and easy to make!

Avocado salad is a crowd pleaser and so refreshing! Simply cut up cucumber, roma tomatoes, avocados and red onion. The quantities are really up to you and your preferences. I like a lot of red onion, but you may want lots of tomato. Once you've got the ingredients in a bowl, squeeze some lemon juice (let's say 1 lemon per 3 avocados used as a reference for quantity). Salt and pepper to taste, then you're done! A simple lunch or side.

Fish on the grill doesn't have to be difficult. Try using the foil packet method. Place the fish in the center of a square of foil (approximately 12"X12"). I like to spread pesto on the fish, but salt/pepper/butter is also a great option. Chop up whatever veggies you like and throw some in. Here is a video on how to fold the packet. Most recipes say it takes 15-20 minutes to cook on the grill, but I always check it at 10 minutes. Especially with fish. This method works for chicken and sausage as well.

BBQ chicken is a favorite in my house. I have a simple, albeit lengthy process for delicious, sticky BBQ chicken. First, dry your chicken with a paper towel (legs, thighs, doesn't matter). In a bowl, mix 1/2c brown sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon each of cloves and paprika. I add some salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste. Rub the chicken on all sides with the dry rub. Put in a 250° for about 10 minutes, then turn the chicken. Once the rub has baked in, brush your favorite BBQ sauce over the chicken. I set the timer for 10 minutes and turn and baste with BBQ sauce each time. Check with a meat thermometer each time you turn it. When it reads 165°, they're done! Get ready for some sticky fingers and happy faces!
Strawberry frozen yogurt is mind-blowingly simple. In a blender, place a 32 oz bag of frozen strawberries (I've done mixed berries as well), a cup of plain Greek yogurt, about 2-3 tablespoons of honey (or more... I just squeeze it right into the blender), and 1/2 a lemon. You can serve it immediately or put in the freezer. My kids love this one because they can do it pretty much on their own.
Is this a great menu for a pool party, maybe? Bon appetite.
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