We waited to host a backyard party for what feels like years. A pandemic followed by bad air quality - over a year is too close for comfort. Now’s the time that we can safely get together outdoors to collectively celebrate life!

Two of our favorite, shareable recipes are below for you to enjoy with friends and family. (Though we won’t tell if you save most of them for yourself. ;) )

Sending you well-wishes and warm late Summer regards from our Seasoned Chef family to your’s. Don’t forget our address when you send out the invites!

Classic Guacamole

Ingredients

• 2 ripe Hass avocados

• ½ medium red onion

• 1 medium tomato

• 1 large clove garlic

• 2 jalapenos

• 3 tablespoons lime juice, or to taste

• 3 tablespoons chopped cilantro

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 3 tablespoons olive oil

Directions

1. Split, seed and peel the avocados. Cut in small dice. Chop the onion and tomato. Mince the garlic. Stem, split, seed and mince the jalapeno.

2. Put the avocado in a bowl and mash. Add the rest of the ingredients, except the olive oil, and mix well. Adjust the seasoning and add the oil to adjust the texture.

3. Transfer to a serving bowl and serve. Serves 4-6 people as condiment

Classic Pico de Gallo

Ingredients

• 4 Roma tomatoes, small diced

• 1 jalapeno, seeded and small diced

• ½ cup chopped cilantro

• ¼ cup small diced red onion

• salt, to taste

Directions

1. Combine all ingredients and allow to sit in the refrigerator for 15 minutes.

2. That’s literally all you have to do. Enjoy!

Both recipes can be made up to 4 hours ahead if wrapped well and refrigerated. Serve with warm tortilla chips or fresh vegetables, or as an accompaniment to an entrée.