Flounder, Fire and a Flick

The weather could not be more glorious. Clear and warm with a breeze. All free of the dreadful humidity we've become so accustomed to all month long. This weekend perfection is the kind of scene set for us to truly revel in our backyards and outdoor set-ups without having to hide in the shade or our air conditioners.

Our Friday evening began with a happy hour filled with gourmet cheeses, fruit, spinach dip and Chardonnay. A little celebration turned into a full out party equipped with Roger's famous crisp-skinned, grilled chicken wings, alot more wine and a campfire where we all roasted hot dogs and marshmallows until very late.

Tonight promises to be a bit more of a low-keyed dinner by the campfire while watching the new Sherlock Holmes movie on our outdoor theatre. What's Cookin' on this summer Saturday? Here's the menu:

• Dill seasoned hummus with Triscuits and some cheddar with pepper/poppy water crackers.
• Baked clams
• Fresh flounder filet (from Buoy One's seafood market, Riverhead) in foil packets cooked on the grill with a butter, lemon and oaked chardonnay; seasoned with fresh chives.
• On the side I will dice our fresh squash and zucchini, then add some brown tomatoes, chopped onion and lemon with some basic seasonings.
• Toasted pine nut cousous will also accompany the dish.

I could very easily choose a wine to pair with this but instead, I will be brewing a Keurig summer special "tea" of Tropical Breeze White Iced Tea flavored with passion fruit.

I'm looking forward to trying the vegetable medley and also rating the seafood from this Riverhead market. It's my first time in a long while buying from somewhere other than Braun's in Cutchogue.

Hope you enjoy this mid-summer's night of dreamy weather!