celebrate summer with bacardi cocktails

What is the first thing that comes to mind when you think of summer? BBQ?s, pool time, or just fun in the sun. No matter what the event it?s always more fun with great food and delicious beverages. Summer entertaining seems easy, right? You start by inviting your friends and family, turn on the grill, and enjoy the warm weather. But that doesn?t mean there?s only one way to throw a summertime party. Whether you are hosting a formal dinner for a few close friends or a casual backyard barbecue for your entire family the menu is an important component.

With the new trend of low calorie alcoholic beverages rapidly rising I knew it was time for girl party with some Bacardi Cocktails. Two of my closest girlfriends from high school, who both live in different states, happen to be back in Minneapolis the same weekend. These are ladies that I have known and loved since first grade. We have been through so much together and cherish the little time we get to see each other. With husbands, boyfriends, kids, pets and general everyday life getting in the way we haven?t been able to find time to reconnect, just the three of us. After six years we finally had our night together. With beverages and conversation flowing we had an amazing evening remembering all of the wonderful times we have shared.

Special guests equals extra special appetizers. Fresh spring rolls are my favorite hors dourves?to serve. They are healthy, fresh and always a conversation topic. They made the perfect compliment to our Bacardi Pina Colada and Mojito Cocktails. A recipe for a great way to celebrate summer.

Fresh Spring Rolls Recipe:

• 2 Haas avocados
• 20 rice paper rounds, 6 or 8 inches in diameter
• 1 package rice noodles
• Leaves from 1 bunch fresh basil
• Leaves from 1 bunch fresh cilantro (optional)
• 2 cups shredded carrots
• 2 cups bean sprouts
• 1/2 English cucumber, cut into thin strips
• 1 package imitation crab (or shrimp)

Place a wide, shallow bowl of warm water on a work surface. Lay a clean kitchen towel next to the bowl. Dip 1 rice paper round into the water for a few seconds to soften, then lay it flat on the towel. Dip a second round into the water and lay it directly on top of the first one. Using another towel, pat the top of the rice paper dry.

Boil a pot of water and dip rice noodles in for less then a minute to soften. Cool over cold water and place a few drop of vegetable oil to keep in the moisture.

Center cucumber, avocado, carrots, bean sprouts, herbs, and seafood.?Lift the bottom edge of the rice paper up and over the filling and then roll once to form a tight cylinder. Fold in the sides of the rice paper and continue to roll the paper and filling into a tight cylinder. Set aside, seam side down. Repeat with the remaining rice paper and filling ingredients to make 10 rolls.

Serve with sweet and spicy chill sauce.

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BACARD? Classic Cocktails Light is a new line of low calorie, ready to serve cocktails. At less than 95 calories for a 4-ounce serving, BACARD? Classic Cocktails Light is available in Pina Colada and Mojito flavors and is made with natural flavors, real juice and pure cane sugar. Whether enjoying a favorite cocktail after a long day or throwing a party, BACARD? Classic Cocktails deliver classic cocktail taste that?s a hit with friends, won?t add inches to your waistline and won?t take all day to prepare.

Disclosure: Compensation was provided by Bacardi via Glam Media.? The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of Bacardi.

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Source: http://happyhourmom.com/2012/08/celebrate-summer/reviews-product-review/

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