Spicy Cilantro Sesame Slaw

Southern coleslaw can sometimes be an unappealing concoction of soggy cabbage swimming in miracle whip. This recipe is a lighter, fresher version that I have been making this summer. I love the nutty sesame flavors combined with the bite of the jalapeno and creamy, tangy-ness of the yogurt.

Spicy Cilantro Sesame Slaw

Ingredients:


1 Small Head of Cabbage, Very Thinly Sliced
4 Carrots, Very Thinly Sliced
1/4 Cup of Cilantro, Finely Chopped
2 Jalapenos, Minced
2 Tablespoons of Greek Yogurt
Juice of 1/2 Lime
1 Tablespoon of Sesame Oil
1 Tablespoon of Soy Sauce
1 Teaspoon of Toasted Sesame Seeds
1 Teaspoon of Salt

Preparation:

In a large bowl, toss the cabbage with the carrots, cilantro, and jalapeno. Sprinkle with the salt and sesame seeds, then dress the mixture with yogurt, lime juice, sesame oil and soy sauce. Toss thoroughly and serve!

Sparkling Bittersweet Summer Cocktail

I am a nut for sparkling wine. I know it can be super cheesy and cliche, but when it hits your lips, it tastes so good! (Old-School, anyone?!) One recent Friday evening, feeling overwhelmed and in need of some alone time, I stopped off at the store and picked up a bottle of bubbly. There's something wonderfully indulgent about taking a lovely flute of something sparkling outside on a quiet summer evening. It was just what I needed!

Sparkling Bittersweet Summer Cocktail

Ingredients:
1/2 Ounce of Lillet Blanc (A sweet french wine, similar to dessert wines)
2 Dashes of Angostura Bitters
2-3 Ounces of Sparkling Wine (Depending on how tall your flutes are)

Preparation:
Pour your Lillet Blanc* into your flute. Top off with sparkling wine and add your bitter dashes! Voila!

*Note about Lillet Blanc: It's this really delicious sweet, desserty wine which can be served alone as an aperitif  or it's great to keep on hand for the sweet note in your cocktails. I also like it with gin cocktails!