Two Tarts

I heart spring and summer with this sparkly vodka cocktail

Last week I had a bottle of vodka in the freezer and a long day of parenting behind me. I needed a drink that was going to hit the soul in a few sips. Serendipitously, I came across this Strawberry Basil Sparkler on the Internet that isn’t only pretty but simple and refreshingly different. I know this blog is called Must Eat Now, but we’ve all gotta drink, right? I’m so hooked on this cocktail that I immediately lit up the west and east coasts telling friends of my new summer crush.

Friends Sarah and Dulcie started their blog Two Tarts as a way to share their seasonal, delicious recipes. The Colorado ladies’ goal is to make cooking simple and accessible, with an effort to make as much as possible from scratch (they have an extensive DIY section.) The Strawberry Basil Sparkler is just a sampling of their mixology list, which also features seasonal ingredients. The cocktail’s flavour is subtle, but once the strawberries and basil have had a chance to infuse (that’s if you don’t drink too quickly) you’ll be rewarded with a sweet, tart, and fragrant drink. I also discovered that if you leave the old strawberries in for your next sparkler, the flavour will be even more intense. On top of that, just holding the drink makes you look stylish!

This salad makes a nutritious summer lunch or dinner

I love the photography on Two Tarts. It’s colourful, fresh, and enticing, much like this Lentil Goat Cheese Salad. Tossed in a lively dijon vinaigrette, it’s got crunch from the carrots and depth from the goat cheese. I loved the vinaigrette and found that I didn’t have to use the entire amount. This nutritious salad fits the bill whether you’re watching your calories or just simply want a meal that is filling but won’t make you feel sluggish later in the day.

Make this oven-puffed pancake with any kind of seasonal fruit

Two Tarts has a wonderful Entertaining category that has dining ideas for year-round get-togethers. You can find menus for parties, picnics, brunches, and dinners, complete with beverage suggestions. This Oven-Puffed Pancake with Berries deserves to be shared with family and friends. I made it for my son at six in the morning (god, I miss sleep!) with frozen blueberries. Also known as a Dutch Baby or German pancake, it’s a no-fuss, time-saving alternative to pancakes. It makes breakfast or brunch feel much more special when you pull out the puffy pancake, sprinkle it with icing sugar, and drizzle maple syrup on it. Actually, just thinking about it makes me want one now! Take it from me, the woman who rarely sleeps: it’s a great way to start a long day.

Photos courtesy of Two Tarts

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