ANNETTE JOSEPHS BLOOD ORANGE BASIL GIMLE

February’s Behind the Bar is a mix of summer and winter. Blood oranges are available only in the coldest winter months, and basil, of course, is summery. If like me you freeze large bunches of basil during the summer months, you can dig into the freezer for this Blood Orange Basil Gimlet, provided by Atlanta-based stylist Annette Joseph. Later this month, Annette will launch a “Celebrity Cocktail of the Week” feature on her blog that promises a spectacular lineup that I can’t wait to see. In the meantime, I couldn’t resist asking Annette for her favorite cocktail. Learn more about Annette and her cocktail recipe after the jump. 

Hunger Games Cupcakes

I watched The Hunger Games movie the weekend right after it came out. Overall, it was pretty good (I'd watch it again), but like most movie adaptations, not as good as the book, which I absolutely adore.

CREAMY TOMATO SOUP WITH GRILLED CHEESE “CROUTONS”

The perfect kind of comfort food together in one cozy bowl of soup!

SUMMER BERRY ICE CREAM CAKE

Grilled Bacon-Wrapped Corn on the Cob

Ww 0 Point Weight Watchers Cabbage Soup

The Best Ever Waffles

Oreo Ball

Yes, Virginia There is a Great Meatloaf

Quinoa Avocado Spinach Power Salad

Quinoa Avocado Spinach Power Salad

Grilled Chicken Soft Tacos with Spiced Mayo and Avocado Salsa

These grilled chicken skewers, folded into tortillas and topped with spiced mayo and avocado salsa, are an interesting option for spicing up the grilling season.  We like to grill the tortillas, too, so they have a tiny bit of crisp to them.  Grill them for only seconds, though, so they are still pliable enough to fold nicely into a taco shell.

Campsite-Friendly Recipes

Nothing quite compares to the sounds of happily chirping birds along with the careful breeze making its way through tall branches. Spending time away from the everyday hustle and bustle can be incredibly refreshing, but packing and planning meals can be a challenge when you're miles from civilization (aka: Whole Foods and Starbucks!). We found a few tricks and recipes to make your wilderness getaway meals taste like they were made right at home! 

A creative way to pack meals when camping is in mason jars! The versatile and compact jars are amazing for hosting salads. Perfect for when you're prepping ahead, a mason jar salad can host a variety of vegetables and protein essential for a trip in the wilderness. No matter your fixings, make sure you put your dressing of choice in first to ensure your greens stay fresh and crispy! 

Easy Crock Pot Beef and Broccoli

As a busy mom, I’m always looking for quick and EASY dinner ideas that save money and time. My family enjoys the occasional Chinese restaurant take-out, but if you can replicate the same thing at home – thats even better! Check out this easy beef and broccoli recipe from Food.com

15 Incredible Ways to Make Nutella More Awesome

Best Banana Bread