A Perfect Summer Dinner Menu

There's nothing I appreciate more than a perfectly planned out dinner menu. I strive to be that host that pairs together each dish and course perfectly. I have many friends that do this beautifully! And I get to reap the rewards :)

Last weekend we went to our friends house for dinner and we had the best time! The recipe was simple....great people, summer night, cocktails and of course this menu!

It so perfectly blends a quintessential casual summer dinner with a level of sophistication that still makes you feel like you are dining out.

Oh, and probably the best part for me, you can make so much of this ahead!! Since we are having company over on a Friday and having to work, it was so nice that I could prep nearly all of this the night before.

1. Appetizer- Chevre with Pistachios and Honey
Here is the link!

http://www.myrecipes.com/recipe/chvre-with-pistachios-honey-10000001873417/

2. Main- Lamb Burgers with Indian Spices and Yogurt-Mint Sauce

Here is the link!

http://www.myrecipes.com/recipe/lamb-burgers-with-indian-spices-yogurt-mint-sauce-10000001995708/

3. Sides

Melon Salad-easy peasy!

 1 cantaloupe (or can use watermelon if you prefer)

 3/4 container feta cheese

 2-3 T chopped fresh mint

 few turns of pepper grinder

Bean salad

 fresh green beans steamed

 2 cobs of corn steamed

 1 can low salt garbanzo beans

 1 can low salt kidney beans

 2 tomatoes chopped

 dressing:

 1/4 cup lemon juice

 1/4 cup olive oil
 1/2 teaspoon garam masala (Indian spice mix you can find in the spice aisle)

 1/2 teaspoon salt

 1 T goat cheese (add if you want, I think it added a bit of creaminess)
 If you need more spice or salt, add it!

4. Dessert

 Vanilla Ice Cream- Rich and creamy!

 Caramel (lavendar if you can find some)

 Candied Pecans (buy or make yourself!)

 Cinnamon Phyllo Crumbles (sprinkle cinnamon on phyllo dough, bake for 15min. or so and crumble)

There you have it; an absolutely delicious meal that will be a crowd pleaser!

YAY that summer is almost here!!!