The Breeze Magazine of the Lowcountry JUNE 2020

Summertime and the Living is Easy
By Pat Branning
Making changes on the fly is all a part of a day in the life
of a chef, but when the rules of dining changed suddenly
in early March, restaurant owners found themselves
forced to make changes they never imagined. “Carry
on and Carry Out” is now the model for many who wish
to continue to serve their customers and keep their
business alive. Some are having to change almost daily.
They’re planning for the future, but it’s really just dayto-day.
It has become more difficult to meet with friends at
restaurants now that they cannot accommodate as
many people. It’s a good time to start entertaining and
gathering at home in the backyard, the patio or porch.
Staying connected to those we care about is especially
important right now. It relieves stress and the burdens
of everyday life. It uplifts the human spirit and brings joy.
Let’s learn ways to social distance as we gather together
in order for everyone to feel comfortable and safe.
Summer is just around the corner and saltwater seasons
inspire hearty appetites and unrelenting cravings for
cooling salads, decadent desserts and drinks. There’s
nothing quite like feasting alfresco in the shade of a live
oak tree to stir up a little romance or just some good fun.
Now’s the time for impromptu get-togethers with
neighbors and long time friends. I sometimes like to call
friends together at a moment’s notice. Having everything
on-hand is key: dishes, paper plates, flatware, placemats,
glassware, linens, seating, and serving staples.
During this period of social distancing make guests feel
comfortable and right at home by setting up outdoors.
Keep tables and chairs a proper distance apart and
decorate with bunches of blooms from your garden
nestled in clear glass vases - just any size and shape
you have on hand. If you have a pretty floral tablecloth,
pull it out of the closet and spread it out with ice-cold
sweet tea, signature cocktails, cool summer salads, and
luscious desserts for an evening in joyous company.
Keep it casual and carefree by offering a batch of
drinks like Sangria upon guests’ arrival. They can serve
themselves. Offer decorative drink tubs filled with local
craft beers. Don’t discriminate. Non-alcoholic drinks
should be treated with a nice presentation just as
alcoholic drinks. A pitcher filled with ice water and fresh
citrus slices is always a nice touch.
Give a little thought to the presentation. Items look
best when displayed at different heights and not just
all flat on the table. Keep it simple but at the same time
get creative. Tuck the risers underneath the tablecloth.
Risers can be something as basic as an upturned terracotta
pot, a wine crate, or even a stack of books. Get
creative with serving pieces. I had a garden party once
where I served a mixed green salad out of a child’s toy
wheelbarrow.
Incorporate edible decor like fruits and vegetables.
Peaches are coming into season right about now so fill
bowls with this lovely fruit along with fresh herbs in
terracotta pots.
Retreat to a quiet porch hideaway, a dock, or seek shade
beneath a canopy of luxuriant foliage with good friends
and lovely touches that will recharge everyone’s spirits
and revitalize the soul. Consider a side table in bright
colors just for the desserts and coffee.
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