Party time: Recipe for throwing a backyard bash
Hosting a party al fresco for friends and family takes more than a few trays of nibblies. Bring entertaining on the back deck or patio to a higher level with these fab finds.
Comfy seating
Bring the indoors out with the CorLiving Seattle curved sofa with chaise longue and coffee table for $2,949. Made of durable resin rattan, the five-piece set is available online only at homedepot.ca
Mood lights
Hung from trees or set on tables, these handblown glass medallion lanterns will add a festive glow to any outdoor gathering. Priced from $13.95 to $26.95 at Pier 1 Imports.
Party favours
Ikea is launching a new Paper Shop Collection in June, which will include these quirky hanging decorations.
Available in two sizes for $4.99 and $7.99, the paper pinwheels are an easy way to decorate a porch or patio.
Personality plus
Add vibrant floral or black-andwhite graphic patterns to the patio with toss cushions from the Ruby Collection. Priced from $16.99 at Bouclair Home.
Cocktail hour
From potent punches, frosty slushies and classic martinis, Summer Cocktails by Maria Del Mar Sacasa (Quirk Books, $24.95) serves up more than 100 recipes for tasty party drinks to help you impress guests with your bartending skills.
Salty Lime Soda
Here’s the recipe for Salty Lime Soda (shown on the cover of the book), a fresh and tart limeade cut with salt and smoky curry leaves.
Serves: one. 6 fresh curry leaves 2 Kafir lime leaves, cut into thin ribbons 2 tablespoons granulated sugar 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 cup fresh lime juice 2 ounces white rum Ice cubes 1/4 cup club soda, chilled
Toast curry leaves in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant and dry, shaking pan often, about 2 to 3 minutes. Transfer to a shaker. Add lime leaves, sugar and salt and muddle. Add lime juice, rum and ice and shake vigorously. Strain into an ice-filled glass and top with club soda.