THE NAME OF THIS COOKBOOK CONJURES up two very different images: a black-tie event and a party in a parking lot. What comes in between? You name it. And the Dallas Junior Forum did just that. Tuxedos to Tailgates is divided into seasons, each with its own events that qualify for their own menus. In spring there is an Oscar Party, a Tax Day Supper, and a Graduation Grill. Summer dictates a Pool Party, a Fourth of July Picnic, and a Family Reunion. For fall, there is Oktoberfest, a Pumpkin Supper, and an Election Day Party. In Winter, a Tree Trimming Buffet, a Resolutions Dinner Party, and a Super Bowl Party.
What can you expect at an Oscar Party? Mock Champagne, Hot Crab Dip, Cheesy Crescent Puffs, Caramel Popcorn, Onion Rye Appetizers, Walnut and Avocado Salad, Home-style Potatoes, Italian Beef Sandwiches, and Bailey’s Irish Cream Brownie Pie. A Fourth of July Picnic? Roasted Pepper Pesto Dip, Tangy Fruit Coleslaw, Picnic Potato Salad, Bean and Eggplant Salad, Broccoli Pasta Salad, Company Fried Chicken, Cream Biscuits, White Texas Sheet Cake, Lemon Blueberry Pie, and Chocolate Espresso Cookies. And what about at a Super Bowl Party? Corn Dip, Avocado Rolls, Sweet Onion Slaw, Sweet-and-sour Baked Beans, Black Bean and Cheese Triangles, Beer Ribs, Slow-cooked Enchiladas, Apple Brownies, and Chocolate Chip Pound Cake. Obviously, you can use any menu from these events for your own gathering—or mix and match. While some of the dishes sound complicated, the recipes are straightforward; a novice in the kitchen probably wouldn’t have too much trouble preparing some of the entrées.
In addition to the recipes, beautiful photos, and easy-to use index, Tuxedos to Tailgates offers helpful cooking and entertaining tips like the following:
Never frost a cake until it is thoroughly cool.
During the holidays, fill a large, clear glass bowl with Christmas ornaments and ribbons.
For a fast way to dress up your salad, score your salad cucumbers with a fork.
Whether it’s spring or winter, black-tie or blacktop, this cookbook will make sure you’re well fed.
The Dallas Junior Forum, which was founded in 1977, is part of a Texas-based women’s service organization that promotes civic and educational deeds through volunteer work. Proceeds from Tuxedos to Tailgates will go to charity.
