Springtime in Brooklyn feels like magic. After months of cold temperature and gray skies, the air suddenly feels softer, warmer. And those first warm days beg for a serious celebration. We like to honor the first spring weekend and usher in the season by getting friends together for an evening backyard barbecue, sitting outside and soaking in the fresh air for as long as possible.
Because it's our first chance to use the grill in months (or at least our first chance without wearing a parka), we organize the menu around live-fire cooking. Everything from a grilled squid starter to caveman-size steaks gets at least a kiss of smoke from the fire. We start things off by raising a glass to the season with a refreshing, spring-friendly cucumber and gin cocktail. Below you will find the Spring Gathering menu from our book Host.
Strawberries with Vanilla Cream and Graham Crackers
