Southern Lady Simply Southern 2010

Ilove the view from the front porch. From there I can see quite a panorama: memories made while snappin’ peas and carving pumpkins with my grandparents; sharing sweet tea and the swing with my mother; perching on the steps with just-picked blueberries, listening to the sound of my father sanding wood and humming hymns. These scenes appear so vividly from the porch, and as I ponder the past, I also dream of sharing those same simple pleasures with a family of my own one day. Life is filled with reasons to celebrate, and with this issue, we do just that. We hope it will bring inspiration for gatherings and get-togethers that will fill your days with delicious dishes and moments to remember.…

The heavenly aroma of baking bread drifting throughout the house carries you back to another place and time: You’re standing in Grandmother’s kitchen as she rolls out biscuit dough, flour flying, her clothing protected by a faded floral apron tied “just so” around her waist. “If you behave,” she says with a smile while tying a miniature version of that apron around your own tiny waist, “you can help.” The simple act of tying apron strings connects us to generations of Southern ladies who have shown love to their families in the form of home-cooked meals. Recipe cards, splattered and yellowed from constant use, are treasured keepsakes that bind us to our mothers and grandmothers, our favorite aunts and second cousins, once removed. It is these dishes that we turn to…

Just one taste of a ripe blackberry or a juicy peach and you begin to understand why so many stories of the good old days include the family farm and the daily delicacies enjoyed there—how they changed along with the months from winter squash to collards to turnips. It’s why there are enduring tales of carefree summer afternoons spent sampling a tomato straight from the vine or trekking through the countryside, basket in hand, to a favorite spot for picking berries; it’s also why we divided this special issue by season. Believing that fresh ingredients are the secret to success in most any dish, we give you springtime vegetables for Easter (see page 110) and broccoli casserole in winter (see page 82). Serve Strawberry Mojitos or Blueberry Coolers for a summer…

Lively and laid back, an afternoon spent poolside is one of summer’s greatest pleasures. Serious swimmers and wistful waders alike will love to gather around the water, where handforged metal fish flip their fins along the pool deck. With an array of quenching beverages and tasty appetizers close at hand, partygoers can sip and nibble to their hearts’ content, reveling in this refreshing respite from the heat. Whether they choose to show off their Olympic-worthy backward dives or opt to swap stories in the shade is entirely up to them—just keep the food and fellowship flowing and the good times are sure to follow. Aquatic Accents Play up the waterside theme with inspired accessories— buoy-shaped shakers, fishing lure napkin rings, and fresh flowers floating in the pool. Keep the good times flowing…

From birthday parties and family reunions to Father’s Day and the Fourth of July, the months of June, July, and August are filled with special occasions. So, fire up the grill, ice down the drinks, and roll out the red carpet of hospitality; it’s party time. A casual but colorful atmosphere encourages everyone to relax and enjoy the feasting and festivity. Rely on happy colors in subtle solids and stripes to keep the atmosphere lively, and remember that this cheerful-yet-versatile décor can be used time and again for a variety of party themes. During the gathering, be sure to savor each and every moment with those around you, storing up memories and laughter to last throughout the year. A Good EGG What would a Southern-style gathering be without our hands-down favorite deviled…

Poodle skirts and saddle shoes, Tootsie rolls and hula hoops— bring back the good ol’ days with a menu filled with updated classic fare. Transform your kitchen into Coolsville with old-fashioned accents that take you back to a simpler time and place. Straw dispensers and wavy glasses filled with refreshing Cherry Limeade help set the scene, while a tabletop jukebox and sprigs of carnations reminiscent of prom boutonnieres stir up memories of high school days long ago. Put on some tunes, and you’re ready for the hop! Ande’s Fancy Burgers Makes 4 servings 11/2 pounds ground chuck 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce 11/2 teaspoons minced garlic 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper 1/4 teaspoon salt 4 English muffins, split and toasted 4 slices provolone cheese 1 recipe Sautéed Onions and Mushrooms (recipe follows) 1. In a medium bowl,…