If you are my generation (let's say your childhood existing somewhere in between the 80's and the 00's), then you are very familiar with the phenomenon that was the "cucumber melon" fragrance from Bath and Body Works. While this dinner wasn't inspired by the fragrance, it definitely brought back some memories, and I am now the proud owner of some cucumber melon body wash just for old times sake.
Cocktail - Cucumber Melon Martini
Please ignore the lighting that gives these martinis a rather puce looking color. We kept this one simple and refreshing. Juiced cucumber and cantaloupe with some vodka - can't go wrong with this classic!
Appetizer - Cucumber Gazpacho with Shrimp and Melon
http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/cucumber-gazpacho-with-shrimp-and-melon-352829
Did you say you were looking for something to bring to lunch this coming week that was tasty and healthy? Look no further! We did use cantaloupe for this, not watermelon, as there was a theme here, people. Light, delicious and guilt-free! We followed the recipe exactly (halved it), and literally just grabbed a handful of fresh herbs from the backyard. I believe they were parsley, basil, mint, dill, and possibly thyme.
Appetizer Wine - 2013 Banfi Centine Toscana
We may have blogged this one before, and that's ok, because its lovely! I had the pleasure of visiting the Banfi Vineyards when I was in Tuscany last summer and therefore I'm probably a little biased. This wine is fermented part of the time in stainless steel and then part of the time in oak, leaving a rich flavor full of apricot, pear, lime and herbs. It's dry and well balanced with a good acidity.
Entree - Grilled Swordfish with Cucumber Melon Salsa
http://www.chow.com/recipes/25675-grilled-swordfish-with-cucumber-melon-salsa
I almost feel bad because there was barely any effort involved this week. Yet, it still came out a dynamite meal! Follow the salsa recipe as is, grill swordfish to your taste, and voila!
Side Dish - Melon and Prosciutto Risotto
http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/melon-and-prosciutto-risotto-51175400
I know you're thinking to yourself "where does this come from?" Well - it came out of left field and it was fabulous! You always see prosciutto and melon together as an appetizer or finger food - so why not add some starch? Trust me - give it a shot!
Entree Wine - 2014 Babich Sauvignon Blanc
This fresh and fruity wine has a strong minerality to it which was a nice complement to the fruit-heavy meal. It was well balanced with medium weight and equal flavors herb and fruit. Great pick!
Dessert - Melon Gelato
http://www.food.com/recipe/melon-gelato-339165
So, let me take you back to Italy and try to explain the heavenly dessert called gelato. No, its not ice cream. No, its not sorbet. There is absolutely no comparison for it, and it deserves a league of its own. Sadly, it is simply nothing that I have found replicated on this side of the ocean. Our fruits or creams or whatever must not be the same, because store bought and even homemade gelato still does not compare. It had a granular texture almost, and unfortunately, the melon just wasn't strong enough to really give this dessert some standout flavor. That's ok - we'll just keep on perfecting it.
Aperitif - Duck Walk Blackberry Wine
I know I've mentioned the Long Island vineyards before, and Duck Walk is one of my favorites! Besides one of my favorite people ever working there (hey there, Michael!), it does make some great wines at very reasonable prices. This dessert wine cannot be beat! Full and luscious with tangy and sweet notes!
Soooo... there you go. Another blog dinner... and guess what - another post coming up tonight as well! It's that time of the year folks - birthday blog dinner!!! You'll never guess what Jennifer came up with!
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