Spring is Nature's Way of Saying, Let's Party!

We did it!  We survived a long, cold, albeit beautiful, winter season, but now that the snow has melted and the trees are in bloom, Mother Nature, who I consider the ultimate hostess, is ready for her grand reopening: Spring!! 

Here in Palisades, the transformation feels especially theatrical. One minute everything is muted and sleepy and the next – BOOM! – dogwoods are flirting in soft blush and daffodils are practically shouting at us. Spring reminds us that life is meant to be celebrated. Not in a “wait for a special occasion” way, but in a “Tuesday with tulips” kinda way.

So let’s lean in. Let’s entertain like the crocuses are watching.

Eat Your Garden

Spring produce is nature’s way of saying, “Keep it simple and fresh.”

My go-to:  Shaved Asparagus Salad with Lemon and Parmesan 

• Use fresh asparagus (raw, shaved into ribbons)

• Toss with lemon juice, olive oil, flaky salt

• Finish with shaved parmesan and a handful of fresh herbs and edible flowers 
  

Drink Your Garden

Spring is a great time to make a cocktail as pretty as your incoming garden. Fresh basil, mint or thyme freshen up every drink. 

Signature sip: Strawberry Basil Spritz

• Muddle fresh strawberries + basil (or mint) 

• Add vodka or gin

• Splash of lemon juice and simple syrup

• Top with sparkling wine or club soda
  

Spring Clean Your Party Pantry

Now is a great time to dust off your partywares and restock your party pantry in anticipation of spring entertaining.

Upgrade your “emergency entertaining” stash: nuts, crackers, olives, jams, cheese (always one hard, one soft, one stinky), wine and of course, always keep a box of frozen pigs in a blanket in the freezer ;) 

It’s time to open the windows, invite your neighbors over and let the colors, flavors and light do most of the work.

And if nature is saying “Let’s party,” who are we to argue?