Warm Weather Layers

Layers are not really associated with hot weather. Basically it's stripping down to the bare basics of just tee shorts and shorts, however this doesn't apply to dishes. Layered dishes can be fun for a summer weekend meal, whether they be savory or sweet. They're a colorful treat , full of different flavors and textures.

Every summer party needs a fun dip. Try a Southwestern layered bean dip which has red and black beans along with scallions and jalopenos ;Spices such as cumin and chili powder are used for zing.Add shredded Montery Jack or cheddar  and then microwave for a few minutes. Then layered on the veggies, such as shredded lettuce and chopped tomatoes. Top with layers of guacamole and sour cream. Have plenty of chips and iced Corona on hand .Summer is the time for seafood and why not combine two favorites, crap dip and lobster salad together?. Layer them as you like and you can even add a top decorative layer of baby shrimp. Use Melba toast for dipping. Layered salads are another colorful treat that liven up any barbecue. One is a yummy spin on spinach salad. It's taking two layers of both spinach and lettuce ( use more of one than the other depending on what you like more) Coarsely chopped  hard boiled eggs are then added , followed by coarsely chopped bacon. Layer on tomatoes and scllions and then cover with cheese ,peas and then a simple "icing" of  sour cream- mayo dressing. You can also make a vegan one , using garbanzo  and kidney beans. A layered bean salad is another summery crowd pleaser.You can use any kind of beans, plus veggies to create an interesting dish.You can even try a layered chef's salad to make it more suitable for a weeknight meal. Layer on ham, beef and turkey between layers of greens, tomatoes and hard boiled egg slices.

Summer desserts are the easiest to layer. Parfaits are wonderful, whether for a crowd or for yourself.Of course nothing beats an ice cream one, made with good home made ice cream , fresh fruit and fresh made whipped cream. Try a decadent one , with layers of chocolate ice cream, cherries and strawberries. Add chocolate syrup and a topping of whipped cream for more perfection. Another idea is vanilla ice cream layered with brandy and cherries and topped off with both. A healthy dessert parfait is layering Greek yogurt with blueberries and strawberries for a patriotic spin on the dessert. If you want crunch sprinkled some granola before you put the fruit. Trifles, those layered desserts usually reserved for finishing winter dinners can be lightened up for the summer season. These are great after a barbecue or perfect for ending a Sunday brunch. Get a prepared angel food cake and cut it into cubes.  Lay them evenly in the bottom of a trifle dish.Spoon on a layer of Cool Whip and then layer on the fruit of your choice. Repeat until the trifle reaches the dish's rim. "Ice" with more Cool whip and decorate with slices of the fruit used. Peaches are very good for this but also blueberries, blackberries and strawberries. It can be served immediately or chilled until after dinner

You can do layers during these heat soaked days. Make a yummy layered dip or salad for a get together or dinner. Treat yourself to a decadent ice cream parfait or whip up a fruity trifle for a lovely dessert. It's summer layering done right!

Flipping Meals

Sometimes winter weekends can be topsy turvy.It's a fun way to vary the schedule with something wild and unexpected happening.You can do the same with meals.Why should steak be just for dinner? Or a sandwich for lunch.Mix up your meals on a sleepy Saturday or Sunday .It'll make mealtime more exciting and chase away those winter blahs. Starting the day off with a sandwich can bring about a few smiles.You can buy pre made ones from Marie Callendar or Jimmy Dean.You can also make them yourself.Try mini omelets or scrambled eggs with cheese and Taylor ham on either croissants or biscuits.Both breads easily can be baked in the toaster oven.You can also slice up hotdogs and add them to scrambled eggs for some fun.Another idea is an oatmeal salad.Slice up bananas ,apples,pears and oranges.Make a "dressing " of hot oatmeal to pour over it. Try a light supper menu for lunch.Think about chili served over rice or polenta rounds.You could also make a roast chicken with stuffing and veggies for a Saturday lunch.It's a nice reward after a morning of shoveling snow or cleaning house.Also spaghetti is always a good choice too and a fun way to break up a Saturday or Sunday. For a lazy Saturday or Sunday nigth dinner.think waffles or pancakes.Both are filling and a nice departure from the ordinary.Another flip meal is French toast.It's easy to make and always gets a smile.You could also go. With omelets and bacon too.Just as easy is making a lunchtime sandwich.Try creating a hero.Use Italian cold cuts like salame and prosciutto along with shredded lettuce and tomatoes.Another tasty one is a meatball sub.It's filling and hot ,the perfect dinner for ending a busy day.If you've eaten too much ,then go with that mid day favorite ,soup and salad.You can make a creamy bisque or chowder and serve a hearty mixed greens plate with it.You could also just serve a soup, with hot crusty rolls or a big chef's salad with breadsticks. Flipping meals are a fun way to mix up a weekend.It keeps the family happy and it also satisfies picky eater.Try serving a breakfast for lunch or launch for dinner to keep it interesting.