When using Strawberry Shortcake, the character for the theme of Birthday paper party goods uses the desert of the same name. After serving a popular quintessential country summer menu of fried chicken, French fries, corn on the cob and of course, Lemonade. No one would think less of the hostess who took the easy way out and bought fried chicken from the delicatessen of a local grocery or fast food restaurant. They tend to have the recipe down pat and are actually preferred by many.
Of course there's nothing wrong with using the cheaper option of frozen foods for this menu. Just allow enough time before the party for preparation. The major brands of frozen oven fried chicken take about an hour to heat. Packaged individual short cakes used with fresh sliced strawberries and topped with whipped cream from an aerosol can is a perfect summer treat.
For an added party treat serve a platter of chocolate dipped strawberries. This is time consuming to make so its best to get an early start on these. Use baker's semi sweet chocolate and melt in 30-second intervals on high power in the microwave. The real trick is making sure that the fruit is dried after washing. Also use room temperature fruit to avoid condensation. Any moisture will prevent chocolate coating from adhering to the fruit. Place dipped fruit on wax paper-lined cookie sheets to harden the coating before placing on serving tray.
Lemonade from either fresh lemons or bottled is best.. The basic recipe for lemonade is mix the juice of eight lemons or two cups of bottled juice; sweeten with one cup of sugar or to taste. Use just a few drops of red food coloring to match the strawberry shortcake theme. Add six cups of water and serve over ice. By just adding even one simple food item to the menu will help create
a complete Strawberry Shortcake theme party feeling. |
