Campsite cooking is an imperfect science, and that’s what I love about it! There is no cheating your way out of a fresh meal cooked over a fire. However, some things just make life easier and help get you flavorful food right off the fire pit. 

While I’m not one of those people who grew up camping every weekend. I did spend many summers around a fire pit or helping the dad-man prepare for camping trips in his Jeep. Now I could tell you to drop your tailgate and throw a camp stove on it and you’re good to go. And that is a way you can go; I’ve done it many times. Though, that’s not the way to get that campfire flavor or fun.

A lot of these might be self-explanatory, but these are all things that I or my dad have forgotten while packing in the past and wind up having to borrow from someone else. Now that’s not a bad thing, but I’d rather people be prepared.

Dutch Oven

I highly recommend getting a cast iron Dutch oven. They are an investment, but well worth the investment if you’re looking for something that will serve you for years to come. They heat up quickly and cool down slowly leaving you the ability to keep adding and cooking things without worrying about the temperature dropping.

Seasoning

I might be the definition of a tiny white girl, but there is no bland food allowed in my fabled kitchen. Sure you could use just basic salt and pepper, but that’s no fun when you’re being one with nature. Campsite cooking is about creativity and simplicity. Typically I’m a big fan of using flavors found in or inspired by where I’m staying; that gets expensive. Of course, you need the basics: salt and pepper. But I like to have a season all, like slap yo’ mama or good ol’ Lawry’s. As well as a seasoning cylinder as I call them.

Cheap Serving ware

Cheap is the keyword here. You don’t want to take your good serving spoons to a campground or camp area where they can get stolen and broken. I like to have both metal and plastic serving ware with me as well because cast iron will melt plastic if you leave it in the pan as opposed to metal ones which will just get warm.

Can Opener

Say it with me now, cheap is okay when it comes to certain things when camping. And again the can opener is one of them. I don’t like the more expensive can openers because they don’t work with my grip abilities.

Knives with sheaths

Sheathed knives are non-negotiable to me. I’m beyond clumsy and I’m not about to slice a finger because I blindly stuck my hand into my camping gear. I’m also a big fan of bright colors, for more reasons than they’re pretty. Bright colors make it easier to find your knives and sheaths when cleaning up the site.

Cheap Wooden Spoons

Back at it with the explicitly cheap products. I’m a firm believer that the cheap multi-packs of wooden spoons are better than the fancy, coated ones.

Cutting Board

I have a plastic one that I use for camping. The down side to that is that you have to clean it very well after every use. Now, you should do this with any cutting board. But I will be replacing mine with wood in the future because of the antimicrobial effects. But plastic has served me very well. It’s important that whatever cutting board you choose is sturdy because you never know what your counter is going to be made of until you get to the camp ground.

Leather Gloves

Sounds stupid, but trust me: when your’re campsite cooking leather gloves are the best! You’ll need it when you’re working with cast iron pans or Dutch ovens. These suckers get hot and stay hot. If you go at it with any old pot holder, you’re going to regret it. I cannot stress it enough to get a good pair of leather gloves. What defines a good pair of gloves? Thick, but it still gives you dexterity. Other than that, price doesn’t matter.

Bonus: Tool chest or Large plastic Container

A water-proof container with a lid is essential for toting all your cooking supplies. I grew up with my dad having both in the back of his jeep. I do not, however, think you need both unless you want both or have that much camping gear dedicated to cooking. What it must have is a locking lid and water resistant at the very least because you don’t want things to be waterlogged and rusting.

Happy Camping.

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Summertime is all about soaking up the sunshine, lounging by the pool, and enjoying deliciously refreshing drinks. And what better way to cool off than with a selection of mouthwatering mocktails that are not only easy to make but also guaranteed to impress your guests at your next summer party? Whether you’re cutting back on alcohol, hosting a family-friendly event, or simply in the mood for some guilt-free indulgence, we’ve got you covered! Here are our top 10 picks for easy summer mocktails that will elevate your party to a whole new level of cool.

Pina Colada

Transport yourself to a tropical paradise with this exotic blend of pineapple juice, coconut cream, and a splash of grenadine. Serve it in a hollowed-out coconut for that extra touch of island vibes!

Watermelon-Mint Marg

Fresh watermelon puree mixed with mint leaves and a hint of lime juice is all you need to stay hydrated and refreshed on a hot summer day. Garnish with a mint sprig and a slice of watermelon for a stylish presentation. For a fizz take add some lemon lime soda.

Combine freshly squeezed orange, lemon, and lime juice with sparkling water for a zesty and effervescent drink that will awaken your taste buds. Add a citrus twist to the rim of the glass for a pop of color.

Flower-Power Lemonade

Refreshing Lemonade, flower (rose or hibiscus) syrup, and soda water come together to create a light and sophisticated mocktail that’s perfect for an elegant soirée.

Berry Smoothie

Indulge in berry goodness with this vibrant mocktail featuring a mix of strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and cranberry juice. For an extra festive touch, add a skewer of fresh berries as a garnish.

Mocktail Mojito

This mocktail combines muddled mint leaves, lime juice, soda water, and a touch of agave nectar. Combined, it creates a refreshing and lively drink that will keep you coming back for more.

Peach Mock Mimosa

The sweet aroma of fresh peaches paired with the bubbliness of fizzy grape juice creates a refreshing and sophisticated mocktail, sure to impress your guests. Serve in a chilled flute glass for a touch of elegance.

Zingy Lemongrass Fizz Mocktail

Tangy lemongrass and zesty ginger come together in this invigorating mocktail that is both energizing and soothing. Top it off with a splash of club soda for a fizzy finish.

Blue Tiki

Take a trip to azure waters with this striking mocktail made from blue raspberry syrup, pineapple juice, and coconut water. Garnish with a wedge of pineapple and an umbrella for that beachy vibe.

Sober Sangria

Capture the essence of a summer sunset in a glass with this colorful mocktail that blends a medley of fresh fruits such as oranges, apples, and grapes.

Whether you’re lounging poolside, hosting a backyard BBQ, or celebrating a special occasion, these mocktails are sure to add a touch of flair and flavor to your party.

Let us know your favorite summer mocktail from the list or share your go-to recipe in the comments below. Cheers to a summer filled with fun, laughter, and, of course, fantastic mocktails!

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A Dinner club is an amazing way to not only bring your friends together but also make new friends with the help of social media. With that, remember to always be safe and don’t invite random people you’ve never met.

Since 2020, socializing as an adult has become slightly more challenging for a variety of people, me included. But I have found that a dinner club is a great option to bring friends together and explore food together. 

What is a Dinner Club?

A dinner club is merely a gathering of friends or acquaintances on a regular basis to socialize and try new themes and genres of food. It gives people a reason to get out of their comfort zone, meet new people and try new things that they might not have thought of in their day-to-day life. 

Typically, it is cyclical; meaning the group shares the responsibility of hosting. This gives everyone a great opportunity to share their favorite foods and drinks with the group. Modernly, it creates what would historically be that church or community potluck. It brings an old-world tradition into an age that is very isolated because of social media and world situations.

What’s Your Dinner Club Style?

There are so many ways you can take a dinner club and just because you choose one for one month does not mean that you have to stick to it. That’s the joy of it! You can mix, match, change things to fit your own narrative and life! But these are the categories that I tend to use.

Socialite Style: Higher end in decor and table setting. The table is preset with the food pre-plated. It is a “proper” sit down meal. It may have the food in the middle of the table like a family style dinner, but in general the host serves the guests.

Family Style: The table is set simply and all the food is set in the middle of the table. Everyone serves themselves and can choose to serve someone else or just pass the bowl.

Buffet Style: All the food is set on the counter, usually taking up a stove top hub or two. The plates or bowls are set on one side and everyone is in charge of eating at their whim. Sides and additions get refilled as needed.

What’s the Cost?

Depending on what type of dinner club suits your needs, it can get to the pricier side. But, in general, dinner clubs are very easy to start and have regularly on a budget. It will cost an extra week of food, depending on how many people are in your group.

Why I love them!

My entire life socializing has happened around food and friends. I also love hosting! It gives me the opportunity to host people while still being safe. Why safe? A lot of my socializing has to be done from my own house or the homes of people I know well because I’m a kidney transplant patient. It also gives me the peace of mind of knowing what is in the meals I’m eating.

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When it comes to meal prep, having a well-stocked pantry is essential, but can get costly. The best way around that is with these budget friendly pantry staples that I live by. A good selection not only speeds up cooking but also saves you money, cuts down on food waste, and enables you to create delicious meals at a moment’s notice. In this post, we will explore ten budget-friendly seasonal staples that can revolutionize your meal prep experience, making it effortless and enjoyable!

Starter Meal Prep Staples

1. Apples

Autumn is an excellent time to fill your basket with apples. With varieties ranging from sweet Honeycrisps to tart Granny Smiths, apples can add flavor and texture to both savory and sweet dishes. For instance, slicing apples into salads adds a refreshing crunch. You can also use them in desserts like pies or, for a healthy option, roast them to create a sweet side dish. Apples can increase your fiber intake by up to 14% when included in your meals regularly.

2. Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are a budget-friendly gem and a nutritional powerhouse. A single medium sweet potato contains about 112 calories, along with significant amounts of vitamins A and C, and fiber. They can be roasted for a caramelized flavor, mashed for comfort food, or blended into soups and stews for added creaminess. Pairing them with chicken or beans not only enhances taste but also creates a well-balanced meal.

3. Kale

Kale is packed with nutrients and easy to incorporate into your meals, especially in the colder months. This leafy green can be transformed into salads, smoothies, and stir-fries. For a simple salad base, massage kale leaves with olive oil and lemon juice. Adding kale to soups can increase your daily vitamin K intake by up to 684%. When properly stored, kale holds up well in the fridge, making it a practical choice for meal prep.

4. Quinoa

Quinoa is a powerhouse grain that is gluten-free and high in protein, making it perfect for meal prep. Just one cup of cooked quinoa offers around 8 grams of protein and 5 grams of fiber. You can use it as a base for nutritious bowls topped with veggies and protein, or tossed into salads for extra texture. Its nutty flavor allows it to absorb the taste of dressings and spices beautifully, adding depth to any dish.

5. Canned Tomatoes

Canned tomatoes are a kitchen essential, providing convenience and versatility at an affordable price. They can be transformed into sauces, soups, stews, or even a rich homemade chili. One cup of canned tomatoes contains about 32 calories and is an excellent source of vitamins C and E, offering about 10% of your daily requirements. Their ability to enhance flavors can simplify meal prep and save you time.

6. Frozen Vegetables

Having a stock of frozen vegetables is a practical way to ensure you always have nutritious options available. Flash-frozen at their peak freshness, these veggies retain valuable nutrients. They can be quickly tossed into stir-fries, blended into soups, or added to casseroles. Studies show that frozen vegetables can be just as nutritious, sometimes even more so than their fresh counterparts if the fresh ones have been stored for a while.

7. Lentils

Lentils are an outstanding source of plant-based protein, making them a smart choice for anyone on a budget. Just one cup of cooked lentils delivers around 18 grams of protein and 16 grams of fiber. They cook relatively quickly, making them ideal for soups, salads, or curries. With their capacity to absorb spices and flavors, lentils can be adapted to fit various culinary styles.

8. Eggs

Eggs are one of the most flexible ingredients you can have on hand. With about 6 grams of high-quality protein each and only 70 calories, they are perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. From breakfast burritos to frittatas, the options are endless. You can hard-boil them in batches for convenient snacks or toss them into salads for a protein boost, making meal prep both easy and satisfying.

9. Rice

Rice is a dietary staple enjoyed in many cultures, available in types like brown, jasmine, or basmati. One cup of cooked brown rice provides about 215 calories and more than 14% of your daily fiber needs. You can cook a large batch at the beginning of the week and use it in various meals, from stir-fries to hearty bowls, adding a simple and filling element to your culinary routine.

10. Seasonal Squash

Winter squash such as butternut and acorn come into season during the colder months. Their sweet flavors can be enjoyed roasted or pureed into soups. For example, a cup of cooked butternut squash only has around 82 calories and is loaded with vitamins A and C. Roast them as a side dish or blend into a creamy soup for a comforting addition to your fall meals.

These ten budget-friendly seasonal staples can make meal prep easier and more delicious. By incorporating these ingredients into your cooking, you’ll enjoy various meals tailored to different tastes and dietary requirements.

So, enjoy the process of stocking your pantry with these essentials and experience hassle-free meal prep! Happy cooking!