Summer Cookout

We had been at the beach house all weekend and nothing sounded better than having our own little cookout and spending the evening at home. I ran by a local market to pick up the freshest vegetables and headed to the grocery store for all the essentials. What was on the menu, might you ask? Nothing better than charcoal grilled hamburgers, cucumber and tomato salad AND fried green tomatoes. Yep.

So the fried green tomatoes were sort of an afterthought after I saw them at the veggie stand. We usually have them a few times each summer and so far we had not devoured any. I used this recipe to fry up that delicious goodness. Have you ever had a fried green tomato?

 Don't cringe until you try one.

In times past, I have served mine with pimiento cheese. It just doesn't get any more southern. But, I had an itch to try something new and I have to say it was absolutely divine. In fact, I served both in case nobody liked my new version, but in fact everyone preferred it! All you have to do is add goat cheese crumbles and a spoonful of pepper jelly to the top of your tomato. Truly amazing.

I also made another southern staple, the Cucumber + Tomato Salad. Lucky for us, Stephen had his first cucumber fresh from the garden ready to eat that night.

I used Paula Deen's Cucumber, Tomato and Onion Salad Recipe and it did not disappoint. I added a little more apple cider vinegar because too much is never enough for this salad.

When we sat down for dinner I was thoroughly excited. Stephen's parents joined us at the last minute and also brought over some macaroni and cheese.

This menu might be making an appearance again sometime soon- it was that good! Especially for a weekend night when it is time to indulge. What is on your summer cookout menu? Do share! 

Thank you for your sweet comments and messages yesterday- y'all are the best! 

Hope you have a great Thursday- xo.