Finally, summer is here. Of course, here in sunny Palm Beach County, Florida, it can start to feel like summer much earlier. But there’s no denying that the months of May-August are extra special. Some of this is due to the availability of friends and family’s schedules that often manifests in get-togethers and barbecues. Of course, there are certain traditional summer dishes people enjoy, like hot dogs, hamburgers, corn on the cob, baked beans and more. But, with all things at Catering CC, we like to give a twist, particularly of a floribbean, or floridian-caribbean nature. Here are some great, island inspired dishes to bust out this summer.

Jerk Chicken
Jerk chicken is a popular caribbean food that is perfect for hot days in the summer spent grilling out. To make jerk chicken, you will want to score chicken and season it up with some salt. Then, you will prepare the chicken with a marinade that often includes: onion, scotch bonnet, thyme, garlic, sugar, lime and more. You will also want to rub nutmeg, coriander, cloves and pepper on the chicken to give it that signature jerk style. Jerk chicken is an easy, breezy way to bring island vibes to your next island fiesta.

Rum Punch
Rum punch is also unequivocally caribbean, and a great summer party staple. There are a lot of good ways by which you can prepare rum punch, but one of our favorites includes: lime juice, grenadine syrup, jamaican white rum, light rum, pineapple juice, orange juice, nutmeg, orange slices and pineapple slices. Simply mix the ingredients and garnish with the fruit slices. This will create a delicious drink that all your family and friends are sure to love.

Coconut Shrimp
Seafood is also a great choice for the summer months, especially if you live anywhere near the coast. Of course, you may opt for such seafare as fish like mahi mahi or tuna, or you may choose scallops and oysters. However, we have always found shrimp to be a crowd pleaser, specifically coconut shrimp. To make this delicious appetizer or dinner selection, simply combine egg, flour, beer, baking powder, and coconut and season shrimp with the aforementioned combination before frying. The end result will be something sweet and crunchy and tasty.

Bread Pudding
Bread pudding is a classic caribbean dessert dish that can be made in many ways. One way is to combine bread that is slightly old, melted butter, raisins, beaten eggs, milk, white sugar, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract and bake at 350 degrees.

If the dishes above whet your appetite, look no further than Catering CC for your next summer party or BBQ. Chef Winston’s caribbean culinary creations will transport you to the islands and beyond.