Greeting me upon arrival was a friendly face…but one I did not immediately put a name to; sorry Seth! Seth was the manager of a fabulous restaurant that I held an event at last year which sadly closed it’s doors (still can not get over that) and I recognized his face and his voice but yes, I needed a hint. I’ll blame the transition from white shirt and tie to t-shirt as the cause…I hadn’t even started drinking! The Crimson Canary is relatively new, having only opened their doors 6 months ago. It’s a nice space with a parking lot in the rear so my dreaded fear of parking was not realized. Thanks guys…that matter to us suburbanites venturing into the big city.
Their concept is a 1970′s style Italian American steakhouse offering affordable and approachable food. I particularly loved the calamari which included a smattering of veggies in the mix; unexpected yet a great idea. Both Seth and Joey Newman, the owner, were gracious and generous. I enjoyed the calamari, some substantial meatballs and the Caprese Margarita, of course! When I went to recreate the cocktail at home, I was also blessed with having just received a bottle of Justin Timberlake’s new Blanco Tequila, 901. Yes, that Justin Timberlake. Justin apparently has a passion for tequila and has started his own brand. Like many I was a bit skeptical but this is a nice tequila with a good review at Tequila.net and one I’m happy to use as a mixer. This was somewhat prophetic as I typically keep a reposado tequila on hand and this drink really called for a blanco; part of the presentation relies on seeing the striations from the balsamic vinegar. Yes, vinegar! This was a big hit. Unique, pretty and oh so summery with basil from my backyard even!
I’ve had a LONG week. Computer problems galore compounded with camera card issues multiplied by not being able to figure out how to get my laptop which had to be reformatted to network to my new computer. As the result of all of the above, I missed posting on Monday entirely and this post is WAY late on a Friday afternoon. The only good news? I’ve had to make this cocktail three times as a result and I just finished the last one; actually had photos on a card and I was able to finish in time for Happy Hour. No matter that would be east coast time; I’m done. Which means I’m sipping in about five. Join me?
| Caprese Margarita from Crimson Canary |
- For the Simple Syrup:
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 cup sugar
- For the Pickling Simple Syrup:
- 1/4 simple syrup
- 1/4 cup pickling liquid from a jar of Pepperoncini Peppers
- For the Citrus Simple Syrup:
- 1/4 cup simple syrup
- 1/8 cup lime juice, fresh squeezed
- 1/8 cup lemon juice, fresh squeezed
- For the cocktail:
- 1 oz Pickling Simple Syrup
- 4 oz Citrus Simple Syrup
- 3 oz Silver/Blanco Tequila
- Salt for rimming the glass (optional)
- 2 tsp balsamic vinegar
- Basil leaves and cherry tomatoes for garnish
- Combine the water and sugar over medium heat and simmer just until the sugar is dissolved. Pour the liquid into a container and refrigerate until cold.
- Combine the simple syrup and the pickling liquid
- Combine the simple syrup with the lime and lemon juices
- Combine the Pickling syrup, the Citrus syrup and the tequila ( I like to combine them and then refrigerate them for a bit to get them chilled).
- Rub the rim of the glass with a lime and dip in kosher salt (optional)
- Fill the glass with ice and add the margarita mixture
- Using a teaspoon, gently drizzle the balsamic vinegar around the inside edge of the glass
- Garnish with a basil and cherry tomatoes on a skewer.
I received a bottle of 901 Tequila at no charge but was not required to or compensated for mentioning them in this post.
What did I do with all that down time? Maybe it was prophetic in a way. Some of you know and others probably don’t want to hear again but I’m still dealing with a long term injury; slowly getting better but slow as in molasses runs fast type of slow. But at least I’m encouraged I can hobble around now in my garden, for 2 summers I did not set food in it and it showed. I was so sad to see the mess it was but I’ve been hard at work and must say…weeds are almost gone and new grass is coming up and some revisions after the removal of a dead tree are helping make things get better. I thought I would give you a couple of photos; you know…prove I haven’t been just lazing around and watching soaps. While I sip that margarita! :) Unfortunately it’s turned a bit overcast this afternoon but still, here’s my managed mess!
A dead tree that was removed meant this shade garden had to be completely redone; did you hear my shout when I moved that rock and discovered ants. A gazillion or so? Red, brown, big and nasty. And now? No more. :)
The Bridal Veil needs some serious trimming after it blooms and maybe it’s time to put some paint on the birds but this area is right off of my covered patio and greets me in the morning when I’m having coffee. What to come over?
I call this my ‘back forty’ – feet that is. I first tore out the grass in this area ten years ago; it was hot and dry and I thought xeriscape a better choice. I won’t deny; the work here has been eradicating not just weeds but seedlings that sprouted and were not pulled out from a tree that it not visible on the left. I’m getting a handle on it…even if all of those tall purple plants are volunteers…much rather them than thistle!
Next…my water feature. Maybe I’ll feature it next week but it’s not ready yet. Soon…very soon.
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