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Get grilling this holiday weekend!  Here are savvy tips and savory recipes for your Memorial Day soiree!

Kick off the unofficial start of summer soaking in the sun poolside with friends and family.  Memorial Day is the perfect time to spark the grill and hold this year’s first hot season soiree.

For starters, you’ll want to put TLC into planning your party—that, according to Lori Harlig, owner of Amici Catering.

“Star with an idea; consider what you have time for and how many people you want to invite,” said Lori Harlig, food connoisseur.

Harlig runs her Scottsdale catering biz with her hubby of 17 years.  The two have more than 30 years experience in the hospitality industry, having worked with prestigious companies like Ed Debevics (Beverly Hills), Don and Charlies’ (Scottsdale), and Tucchetti (Phoenix).  Their days are packed primping and preparing A-list dishes, in addition to raising their two young boys.

“We love what we do,” said Harlig.

Harlig is dishing her summer celebration secrets so you can plan the perfect holiday weekend get-together.

She says the sunny season screams food that won’t heat up the kitchen; something simple and inviting.

“For me, you can’t go wrong with a summer salad; it’s light, refreshing, and healthy.”

Consider adding fruit to your salad like strawberries and crisp apples.  Pair your leafy greens with a light vinaigrette, and top it off with blue or goat cheese.

“Pair your salad with grilled veggies.”

Our local food wiz suggests adding zucchini, eggplant, or cauliflower to your menu, then throw ‘em on the grill with a little sea salt an olive oil.  For your main dish, go with sliced meat; it’s easier than preparing skewers and can easily be served cold.

“Just add a little BBQ sauce.  Keep it simple.”

As for finger food, skip hefty bread rolls; instead, include some pita chips and hummus.  And Harlig encourages you to get creative—perhaps give green tomato brouschetta a tasty try.

“Have fun with it!”

You can also have fun creating savvy sippers.  Serve some beer margaritas (recipe below), or a savory sangria.

And for décor, keep it crisp.  White linens scream summer, and you can top your tables with mini cacti, sporting a desert theme.  Some more tips: provide your guests with plenty of shade, and make spare towels and sunscreen available.

“It’s also best to serve food inside.”

Thanks to Harlig, your yummy gathering will be a hit.  Cheers to your holiday weekend soiree.

For more information, visit:  www.amicicateringaz.com

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