With new roommates come new traditions. Instead of hosting a typical dinner party each month, my new roommate and her friends take turns hosting “The Cocktail Club.” Created as a way to taste and learn how to make classic cocktails outside of a bar, the monthly host selects a signature drink and pairs it with a suitable entree.
Last month’s cocktail club was inspired by brunch. A Bloody Mary bar allowed guests to learn how to mix their own drinks as spicy or mild as they desired. Only half of the guests had tried a Bloody Mary before, making it a great opportunity to expand their mixologist skill set.
The dish of the night was Ellie Krieger’s Blueberry Almond French Toast Bake. Perfect for busy professionals, the recipe must be prepared the night before and can be popped into the oven as guests arrive. In contrast to the spicy Bloody Mary, the french toast bake was sweet, yet filling. To round out the meal, serve fresh fruit and a veggie platter for guests to nosh on in advance of the main entree. To view the recipe from the Food Network’s website, click here.