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Archive for July, 2012

July 13th, 2012

What’s Going On?, Lewes, Delaware, Activities, Events, Entertainment, Delaware Beaches

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Get out of town….let’s go to the beach!  Delaware has 25 miles of Delaware Bay coastline, 26 miles of Atlantic Ocean coastline, and 115 miles of inland bay shoreline.  Three rivers, creeks, and ponds cover a fifth of the state.  Plenty to do.

So, if you are visiting the Historic town of Lewes, Delaware, then, read on…

Saturday, 7/14 – 54th Annual Lewes Antique Show and Sale.  From 10 a.m. until 5 p.m.  Location?  Bethel United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall at 4th & Market Streets in Lewes.  Lunch will be served.  More info? 302-645-9426.

Saturday, 7/14 – The Farmers’ Market will be held on Saturday at Shields Elementary School. from 8 a.m. until Noon.  More info? http://www.historiclewesfarmersmarket.org.

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Saturday, 7/14 – Zwaanendael Maritime Festival – “A Sailor’s Life for Me”.  From 11 a.m. until 3 p.m.  Free Admission. – Adults and children alike will experience the everyday lives of sailors by scrubbing the deck, learning about shipboard food, playing “Crown and Anchor” and Colonial games, exploring a vessel’s cargo and the merchants who shipped it, creating a sailors’ valentine and serving on a block-and-tackle station where visitors will be drilled by a demanding mariner looking for new crew members.  Location? At 102 Kings Highway in Lewes.  Tel. 302-645-1148.  More information can be obtained by visiting http://www.leweschamber.com.

Sunday, 7/15 – Yoga with Dimitra at Canalfront Park.  8 a.m. until 9 a.m.  It is Free!!  Bring your own mat and towel.  Location? 211 Front Street in Lewes.  More info?  Visit http://www.lewescanalfrontpark.org.

At The Villages of Five Points:

Saturday, 7/14 – Summer Concert at The Gazebo with Giant Steps, at 7:30 p.m.  Bring family and friends.

Sunday, 7/15 – Market on The Green from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.

For more info., please visit www.thevillagesoffivepoints.com.

Thursday, 7/19 – Movies on the Green at Sunset.  Free popcorn for all moviegoers.  Next week’s feature will be Footloose (PG-13).

Have a great time!!

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July 12th, 2012

Whipped to Perfection, Consistency of Soft Serve, Annie’s Banannies, More than Just Dessert, Downtown Rehoboth Beach, Delaware Beaches

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I have been totally hooked on Annie’s Banannies since my friend, Renee, told me about it.  I even question Annie the other day.  I was wondering why she was closed on Mondays.  Well, she is, actually, taking a well deserved Annie day off.

You wonder how a banana can transformed itself into an ice cream form.  It is not ice cream, by the way.  It is a frozen banana, put through a juicer.  Toppings are added and that is basically it.

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Annie’s Banannies is located at #9 1st Street South in Downtown Rehoboth Beach.  One block off the Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk and one block south of Rehoboth Avenue.  Tel. 302-260-9875.  Website?  http://www.anniesbanannies.net.

I wrote a post with pictures on 7/22/10.  All you have to do is click on that month and year under the Archives of AboutMyBeaches and scroll down to the 22nd.

Annie has done some remodeling since the last time I was there.  The counter looks great and speeds things up.

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Upon entering Annie’s Banannies you will notice a board with all the flavors and explanations.  On the website you can see every topping they offer, as well.

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You will also notice that they offer gluten free, vegetarian/vegan, and lactose free toppings.  They also use eco friendly cups.  The spoons are made out of potato starch.

So basically, once you know your topping (you can build your own too) then this is what happens.

Out of the freezer comes the frozen bananas.  The juicer is waiting.

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It is put through the juicer into a cup.

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Toppings are added.  I chose the Bunchberry, which had strawberries, blueberries and raspberry puree.

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Another customer was there and she let me take a picture of her Banannie Cocktail, which had strawberries, blueberries, green grapes and pineapple.

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There are benches outside, on the sidewalk, where you can enjoy one delicious desert without feeling too guilty.

Your 4-legged friend can have water and a treat outside, as well.

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Talk to you later….have a good one!!

Note:  You can find Annie’s Banannies on Facebook.  On Twitter as BananniesBeach.

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July 12th, 2012

A Bathtub Race in Berlin, Maryland, The Running of the Bull in Dewey Beach, Delaware…..Oh well, It’s the Summer of 2012!!

The following two events are happening this week-end, about 45 minutes or so away from each other.  Both have been in existence for a long time..and so much fun!!

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Friday, July 13th – The Historic Town of Berlin is one of those gems that is growing more and more in popularity year-round.  It is only about 6 miles west of Ocean City, Maryland.  On Friday from 5:30 to 8:00 p.m. is the 2nd Friday Art Stroll.  You can visit the quaint shops and restaurants that make Berlin their home.  Just park; no meters…and start strolling.

During this event is when the 23rd Bathtub Race will be taking place.  Since 1992, local businesses have turned ordinary bathtubs into rolling works of art.  The race is open to anyone who wants to compete.

Rules to follow:

Wheels may be no larger than 26 inches.  Bathtub must have brakes and steering.  There must be at least one rider (helmet required). No more than one person can push (closed toe shoes required). Bathtub must hold a minimum of 2 gallons of water. There is no limit to the number of wheels.  Businesses may advertise on the side of their bathtub. Tub must be under control of a pusher at all times and may not be released until tube has come to a complete stop.

Winner Takes All trophy and Bragging Rights, plus a free banner ad on the Berlin Chamber’s website, worth $400.

$50 entry fee per tub for Berlin members of the Chamber and $75 for future members.

So…pick your Pit Crew, Driver and Pusher!!  More info?  Please call 410-641-4775.  Visit http://berlinchamber.org.

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Saturday, July 14th – Bringing a bit of the Fiestas of San Fermin in Pamplona, which end on July 14th, to Dewey Beach, Delaware.  It is the the 12th Running of the Bull!!

Just in case….The Bull is only 2 people in a BULL COSTUME.  Come on; no need to call anyone. No animals are used in these race….only humans!!

It is a gathering at the Starboard in Dewey Beach, Delaware to Run with the Bull.  The pre-run festivities will start at 11 a.m. until 1:30 p.m.  Beverages, loud music and a whole lot of fun.  The run will start at 2:00 p.m.

For more information and history, please visit http://therunningofthebull.com/history.php.

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Have a great time.  Talk to you later.

Comments Off on A Bathtub Race in Berlin, Maryland, The Running of the Bull in Dewey Beach, Delaware…..Oh well, It’s the Summer of 2012!!

July 11th, 2012

Cake Break, Gourmet Cupcake Company, Rehoboth Beach, Bakery, Breakfast, Opens 6:30 a.m. Daily, Coffee, Espresso, Smoothies, Vegan & Gluten Free Options, Nut Free Facility, Delaware Beaches

I had received a tip that I needed to look for Miss Piggy at Cake Break.  Say no more, that’s were I went on one of those hot summer days in Rehoboth Beach.  There is something about cupcakes.  They evoke childhood memories.  One serving and you don’t really need to share with anyone.  It is all yours to enjoy.

Cake Break is located at 7 South First Street, Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971.  Tel. 302-260-9264.  Website? www.cakebreakrehoboth.com.  You can find them on Facebook as CakeBreakRehoboth and on Twitter as CakeBreakRB.

I am so glad to see Cake Break so successful.  Debbie, her husband, and her staff, including her 2 professional bakers, are working so hard and it is, definitely, paying off.  I have written in the past several posts.  If you want to see them, just put the name on the Search on this website.

It was in the afternoon when I arrived at Cake Break.  I saw Miss Piggy.  Renee, who is a friend, and always on the lookout for interesting foods, told me about it.  So here it is.  Meet Miss Piggy.  This simple looking cupcake is packed with flavor.  Those contrasting flavors of salt and sweetness make this one awesome cupcake!!

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I sat down to eat it as Debbie’s husband explained what it consisted of.  It is a brown sugar yellow cake with a swirl of brown sugar inside.  A drizzle of caramel with butter cream and bacon.  A total winner!!

That’s all I was going there for and as I was getting ready to leave the Canoli cupcakes made themselves present.  Devil’s food or yellow?  Decisions, decisions.

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Please note that even though Cake Break is a gourmet cupcake company they do offer all kinds of homemade baked goods.  They open very early and stay open late, as well.  Their coffee is delicious.  I have tried it; bold and hot.

You can call their number 302-260-9264 and pickup is available curbside.

They are busy with weddings.  They offer wedding cupcakes, birthday cakes and special orders.  Just call them or stop by to meet with Debbie.

Cake Break is a nut free facility.  Vegan and Gluten Free options are available.  Both are the best.

Stop by and say hello…they are a friendly bunch!!

Comments Off on Cake Break, Gourmet Cupcake Company, Rehoboth Beach, Bakery, Breakfast, Opens 6:30 a.m. Daily, Coffee, Espresso, Smoothies, Vegan & Gluten Free Options, Nut Free Facility, Delaware Beaches

July 10th, 2012

Fish On!, Bar, Grill, Lewes, Delaware, Restaurant, Matt Haley’s Restaurants, SoDel Concepts, Outdoor Dining, Review, Delaware Beaches

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Eating is not merely a material pleasure.  Eating well gives a spectacular joy to life and contributes immensely to goodwill and happy companionship.  It is of great importance to the morale.   e. schiaparelli

This post is reviewing Fish On! twice in one week!!

It was Sunday night when a friend came over to visit.  I was probably on a lazy kind of mood.  A crowded and hot week-end at the Delaware Beaches.  Plain and simple; I did not feel like cooking.  So, I chose Fish On!  We are so lucky to have all these wonderful restaurants in our beaches.  I have to hand it to you, Chefs, because you are doing a great job in keeping all of us interested in your culinary surprises.

Fish On is part of the SoDel Concepts group of restaurants that extend up and down our coastal beaches.  Owner and Executive Chef is Matt Haley. It is located at 17300 North Village Main Blvd., Villages of Five Points, Lewes, Delaware 19958.  Tel. 302-645-9790.  Website?  http://www.fishon.bz

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Fish On! does not take reservations.  That is not bothering me anymore.  I am eating late this summer.  Love having the restaurants almost all to myself at that time.  Fish On! has plenty of parking.  The restaurant offers outdoor dining.  So, on a beautiful Delmarva night, please take advantage of a pretty nice setting.  Eating outdoors is the best.

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On Sunday evening the restaurant was comfortably crowded when we arrived.  Not soon afterwards, just a few having a leisure coffee and desert.

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Our server was Stefana.  I have to tell you that she was so pleasant; knew the menu well.  Gluten free awareness?  Oh yes, she was very well aware of the allergy.

Bread was brought to the table.  Even though the bread looked simple, it was a little bit sweet; not overly so.  It is baked daily in-house.

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I decided to have their Charred Asparagus Soup.  It was creamy, full of flavor, with a creme fraiche and basil oil.

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Two orders of Pan Seared Halibut, with grilled peach, black bean and corn salsa, cumin and paprika roasted potatoes.  Gluten Free!!  Got great reviews from my fellow diners.

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I decided to go with the Seared Seabass, with summer squash and sweet potato ribbons, and a lemon herb gremolata.  It melted in your mouth, the vegetables were perfectly cooked.  The picture does not lie.  It looked and tasted that good.

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Perfectly satisfied, we just had some coffee.

Tuesday evening.  Quiet after the hectic week-end.  You could see that the traffic was taking it easy.  Once again, we decided to go to Fish On!  The scallops were calling my husband.

Fish On! was a little more subdued; we also went pretty late.

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My choice was the Bean, Corn, and Chicken Soup.  It was “brothy”, light and it had been cooked with jalapenos, so there was a nice kick to it.  Loved it.

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Fish Tacos for my next entree. Shaved brussels sprouts, pickled onions, corn tortillas.  Guess what?  I learned something new.  The fish was called swai.  I had never heard of it.  It is pronounced sweye.  Similar to catfish but with a milder flavor and more delicate texture.  It is from Vietnam.  Even people that do not like fish, tend to really enjoy this very much versatile fish that can be broiled, baked, sauteed, and fried.  My Fish Tacos were delicious and a very healthy portion indeed.

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When restaurants are not crowded it is the perfect opportunity to maybe be able to change something on the menu.  Fish On! was more than happy to oblige.

The Scallops were ordered.  They would have arrived accompanied by summer vegetables and a chorizo succotash.  Not sure if the chorizo was gluten free, we decided to replace those with the Roasted Red & Gold Beets; no blue cheese, mustard vinaigrette on the side.  Both were outstanding!!

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Please note that restaurants get so busy that many times they can not be substituting one thing for another.  So…ask but be understanding of their situation.

Again, a little chat here or there with Stefana….and until next time.

Fish On! opens 7 days a week at 5:00 p.m.

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A Children’s Menu is also available.  Other offerings, besides seafood, are on the menu, as well.

Have a good one!!  ttyl g

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July 10th, 2012

Fitness Center, Gym, The Firm, Rehoboth Beach, Personal Trainers, “Discipline Makes the Difference”, Delaware Beaches

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His words were, “It will change your life”. Hmmm, really?  I was talking with my friend, Butch, and the conversation turned into gyms, training, exercising, etc. etc.  Butch has been going to the gym and those were his words.  I figured, why not?  I have been thinking of going back to a gym.  I need something extra besides walking my dog.

The gym and personal fitness center that Butch had been talking about is called The Firm.  It is located at 803 Rehoboth Ave. Extended, Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971.  Tel. 302-227-8363.  Website?  www.thefirmfitnesscenter.com.

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I made up my mind.  Definitely, I was trying it out.  On Sunday I stepped inside The Firm.  I introduced myself to David and told him Butch said “It will change my life”.  He looked at me funny but that broke the ice.  He was very nice and explained a few things before signing on the dotted line.  If you visit their website, you can take a tour of the whole gym and see what they have to offer.  Seasonal memberships are also available.

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The Firm has been in the area since 1988.  Paul Timmons NSCA-CPT is the owner.

The Firm’s motto is Discipline Makes the Difference.  Maybe that’s what I need.  When I met Paul on Monday we set an appointment for Wednesday when we will sit down and go through my fitness goals.

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I did surprised Butch.  He was there, as well.  I climbed on the treadmill and did my thing while the woman next to me was running like there was no tomorrow.  She was in very good shape.  A little bit of a sweat.  That felt good.

Then, off to the free weights.  I, actually, do like free weights.  I was standing in front of all these weights.  The gentleman next to me was lifting hundreds of pounds.  He looked at me; I asked him if he knew where the 8 and 10 pounders were. I found them easily on the side.  I did my reps.  He said he was giving me plenty of space.  He also said I was doing well.  I had to laugh. It really was comical.

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I was finished with my reps.  So….back to Paul.  I asked if I could take pictures for my post.  He was fine with that.  I really try not to take pictures of people to give them their privacy.

I saw a few people I knew and as I was leaving I saw another Rehoboth native.  I told her I was starting at the gym.  She said I needed to use The Beast.  The Beast?   Paul Timmons is The Beast.  Can’t wait!!

I’ll let you know how it goes with The Beast on Wednesday.  I am pretty open minded but I don’t know about tire flipping, boxing and who knows what?  I want to firm up.  That’s why I am going to The Firm, really.

Talk to you later…have a good one!!

July 9th, 2012

Artist, Painter, Courtney Bateman, Artist Reception, Silver Lake, Rehoboth Beach, Delaware Beaches

I was looking forward to seeing Courtney’s paintings in an exhibit.  I must tell you that Courtney herself is one of Rehoboth’s daughters.  Grew up running around and swimming in this amazing coastal town.  Her paintings are sensitive to her growing up at the beach.

She is a talented artist pursuing her passion.  She is so creative and her smile and friendliness will win you over once you meet her.  But, wait, here she is.

dscn5781The painting on her right is called Dappled Dunes.  Acrylic on Cotton-Linen Blend – 26″ x 14″.  Scenery in its most pure form of technique, giving it an interpretive quality.  The colors stay bold and true to “straight out of the tube”.

dscn5782Here is Courtney with her creation of Love at First Sight – Acrylic on Cotton-Linen Blend – 29″ x 20″.  The Gloxinia flower symbolizes Love at First Sight and this traditionally small flower is enlarged to enhance this meaning.

The exhibit had a total of about 22 paintings.  I don’t have them all but I have enough in order for you to appreciate Courtney’s abilities as an artist.

Best Kind of Lonely – Acrylic on Canvas – 20″ x 15″.  This beach beckons to you from the trees; calling with its splendor and beauty.

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Surfer – Acrylic on Canvas – 16″ x 12″.  This piece is a dream beach for the lone Surfer.

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Courtney can be contacted by telephone 302-519-9372.  Or, by e-mail at courtneybateman118@gmail.com.

Beach Day – Acrylic on Canvas – 15″ x 20″.  Picture yourself sitting in Lynam’s finest enjoying a great beach day!! Anyone that has rented beach chairs in Rehoboth Beach knows Lynam’s; he is the one.

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Pina Colada – Acrylic on Canvas – 36″ x 60″ x 1.5″.  Created from a study of microscopic views of this beverage.  Adapted into an optical illusion, which metamorphosed to reveal Butterflies.

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Coca Cola – Acrylic on Canvas – 36″ x 60″ x 1.5″.  Created from study of a microscopic view of Coke Classic.  Adapted into a lotus flower.  Contrasting with the symbolism of purity, rebirth and divinity.

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Secret – Acrylic & Soft Pastel on paper – 18″ x 24″.  Well manicured nails close around a metal ball, containing a tree.  The magic behind the mystery intrigues.  Making the piece “Pop Art with a side of the Surreal”.

dscn5796Information on Commission Work:

Medium – Acrylic, Soft pastel, Others available upon request.

Canvas (stretched with or without wrapped edge)

Paper (Linen, Cotton, etc.)

Canvas Board

Size – High profile side or frame-able

Approximate Time Frame – and location shipping is at buyer’s expense.  Canvasses may be taken off frames and shipped rolled.

Color Palate – Warm, Cool, Neutrals (details are welcomed)

Subject – Specifics are welcomed, as well as, pictures.

Freesia represents sweetness, friendship and trust.    A lone flower shares spectacular lights.  Flowering Northern Lights – Acrylic on Canvas – 12″ x 36″.

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Blue Irises – Acrylic on Canvas – 22″ x 28″.  Irises are a symbol of the importance of Friendship, enhanced with strong colors.

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Lily Sun – Acrylic on Canvas – 11″ x 14″ x 1.5.  This light drenched lily almost pales in comparison to the blazing sun, but maintains its own inner glow.

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Blue Nasturtium – Acrylic on Canvas – 10″ x 12″ x 1.5″.  Blue Nasturtium is too cool for a plant known to have a peppery taste!!  Used in WWII as a pepper substitute.  The blue tones cool down a “hot plant”.

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The next 2 paintings were grouped together.

The first one is Garden View – Acrylic on Canvas – 10″ x 10″ x 1.5″.  This give the viewer the chance to be sitting in the garden, looking through the plants.  It has a strong play on color and size.

The second is called Beach Bloom – Acrylic on Canvas – 12″ x 12″ x 1″.  Flowers?  Umbrellas? Pinwheels? Fireworks?  All of the above and more.  These optical illusions are fun and a great POP of color.

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Jane – Acrylic on Canvas – 36″ x 48″ x 1.5″ – Dedicated to my Grandmother, Jane, AkA – Gramsy.  She supported my love of art as much as my parents.  The lily symbolizes purity and is a Chinese emblem for Mother.

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Micro Flower – Acrylic on Canvas board – 8″ x 10″.  This textural “up close and personal” Orchid begs to pop out!!

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An artist is someone who uses bravery, insight, creativity and boldness to challenge status quo.  s. godin

The artist takes it personally.

We wish Courtney the best!!  Now you know where to contact her.  302-519-9372 or email courtneybateman118@gmail.com.

Talk to you later…Have a great Day!!

July 7th, 2012

Cold Soup, A “Liquid Salad”, Too Hot to Cook, Gazpacho is the best Summer Soup, Recipe, Easy, Gluten Free

 

A scorcher, that’s for sure!!  101 degrees at the Delaware Beaches.  I am not kidding when I tell you that a Gazpacho would be the perfect hot summer meal. 

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I was looking for some local vine ripe tomatoes; they burst with flavor.  Our local tomatoes, at the Delaware Beaches, are coming in and one of the first to have them is Fifer Orchards.  Even though their farm is in Camden-Wyoming, they do have a Fresh Market located on Rt. 1 North at the corner of Cullen Street, in Dewey Beach.   They looked gorgeous!!

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I feel that a Gazpacho is a liquid salad.  It is so refreshing and it takes very little time to make.  The ingredients are found most everywhere. 

The Gazpacho is typically Spanish but it certainly has traveled the globe. Its origin is the South of Spain.  From Andalusia, which is in the southernmost province of Spain.  

We all have a variation of this delicious soup; mine is no different.  I sort of borrowed the recipe from a friend, Sherrie.  Then, I made it my own. 

The garnish of jumbo Maryland lump crabmeat rolled on Old Bay seasoning, definitely says Southern Delaware!!  Hope you like it.

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Summer Gazpacho

 

3 ripe tomatoes (depending on the size you might need 4)

1 cucumber, peeled and diced

1/2 green pepper, diced

1/2 sweet onion, diced

1 cup Low Sodium V-8 Juice

2 tablespoons Olive Oil

2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar (I used Pompeian red wine vinegar.)

A couple dashes of Tabasco (or maybe more)

2 teaspoons of Worcestershire Sauce

Salt (optional)

Pepper to taste

Jumbo lump crabmeat rolled on Old Bay Seasoning (My crabmeat was from Jimmy Lynn’s Seafood on 18226 Coastal Highway, Lewes, DE)

Garnish:  Diced vegetables; peppers, all colors, tomatoes, avocado, green onions, cilantro

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Place all ingredients in the blender, except the crabmeat. 

Cover and blend until smooth.

Adjust seasonings.

Chill

Garnish, serve and enjoy!!

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This recipe serves 4.  It can easily be doubled; just do it in batches.

 

Note:  In many recipes, a slice of day old bread is also added.  I have done it in the past but not this time.  Please use a gluten free bread if you decide to do so, and have to follow a gluten free diet.

This gazpacho can be just your meal but it can also be the start of a great summer dinner, as well.  Just use small bowls; it will serve about 6 people then.

 

Stay cool!!

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