Saturday, May 23, 2009

Drive-In Movie Night

Creamy Mint Orange Shake

2 cups ice cubes or slightly crushed ice
2 cups milk or soy milk
1 6-ounce can frozen orange juice concentrate
1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint leaves

Place all ingredients in blender or food processor. Cover; blend on high speed 30 to 60 seconds or until smooth and frothy. Pour into four glasses. Serve in a tall glass and garnish with a sprig of fresh mint.

Parmesan Popcorn

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
2 regular-size bags of lightly buttered microwave popcorn
1/3 cup finely grated parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt

Pop popcorn according to directions on the package. Pour into a large bowl, then drizzle olive oil over hot popcorn and toss to coat. Sprinkle with cheese, pepper and salt, and then toss to distribute the cheese evenly. Serve in individual bowls or paper boxes.

Pita Burgers with Mediterranean Salad

8 ounces ground chuck, formed into four patties
4 slices of Muenster cheese
2 tablespoons finely chopped red onion
1 large ripe tomato, chopped coarsely
1 garlic clove, minced
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 ripe avocado, sliced
Fresh lettuce leaves
2 pita bread rounds, halved to make four pockets

Heat grill to medium-high heat. Grill burgers to desired doneness (about 5 minutes per side for medium) and top with cheese until it melts slightly. Stir onion, tomato, garlic, and parsley together in a bowl, add olive oil and vinegar, and toss to coat vegetables. Season with salt and pepper as desired then set aside.

Gently pry open pita pockets and place a layer of lettuce leaves on the thickest side. Add cheese burger, fill in salad, and then layer avocado slices last. Serve immediately.