Watermelon Saffron Cooler

I have to admit, this Watermelon Saffron Cooler is about one year in the making. It started with some saffron simple syrup and a need for a sort of sweet and savory cocktail with saffron. And I nailed it. Finally. But finding the right blend that would accentuate the saffron without masking it took awhile. And a lot of ingredients. At one point there was a yellow tomato puree that you’re going to see in a very cool Bloody Mary; I tried out Crème De Violette, and rum, and tonic water… the list goes on. But I’m pleased to report that the Watermelon Saffron Cooler is ready, and well worth the wait. You’d do well to make the watermelon juice and saffron simple syrup ahead of time, while neither is time consuming, it’s nice to have everything ready to go and well-chilled before you’re ready to make the cocktails. And once you make your first batch of watermelon juice, you’re going to want to have it around all Summer long. I buy whole watermelons and juice one half right away. Just about a ¼ cup of the juice is the perfect addition to a glass of ice water. But even … Continue reading

Watermelon and Feta Salad

It was finally HOT and humid in Philly today, which in my book means salad for dinner; if that salad is a Watermelon and Feta Salad, all the better. I love this salad. It’s gotten really popular in the last few years, but its trendiness doesn’t diminish its appeal to me. It’s o-so-simple and refreshing. This Watermelon and Feta Salad is a great way to stave off the heat and have and excuse to eat creamy French feta. Of course you can use any feta you like, but let me make my ex-cheese professional appeal for French feta. It’s less salty, and extra creamy. I love using different fetas for different dishes. Of the readily available fetas, the Bulgarian is the most strong with the saltiest brine. The Greek is what most people have most often in the US, it’s the middle of the road in terms of saltiness. But with a salad like this Watermelon and Feta Salad, where I want the herbs and the watermelon to really shine, I find that the French feta is really the way to go. And then I like to add my spicy jalapeño balsamic dressing to add just a touch of heat. The … Continue reading