Summer Brew & Little Stars

I thought I'd share two recipes today, one for you and one for the kiddos!

We first had Summer Brew when we were in Ohio this summer. I was skeptical when I heard the ingredients, but I ended up drinking it all weekend! It is refreshing and delicious. Beware, though -- the alcohol packs a punch and can sneak up on you! Serve this in a pretty pitcher when you have a crowd.

The Little Stars recipe is one of Evie's favorites. It works as a quick and easy main dish for her, and a good side for us. It's very simple, but very tasty!

Summer Brew
12 oz. frozen lemonade concentrate
12 oz. vodka
4 beers

Mix frozen lemonade and vodka in pitcher until combined. Add beer and stir. Serve over ice. (A tip -- to measure the 12 ounces of vodka, just pour vodka into the empty lemonade can.)

Guys seem to prefer a light lager like Bud Light, but I think a wheat beer like Shock Top Belgian White or Michelob Dunkel Wiess makes the Summer Brew sweeter. (What can I say? Even though I don't work there anymore, I'm still a loyal A-B girl!)

-----------------------------------

Little Stars
1 c. stelline pasta (or other small shapes like alphabet or riso)
4 T freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 T butter, softened

Bring a large saucepan of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until tender, but still al dente, about five minutes. Stir often to prevent the pasta from sticking together. Drain.

In a large bowl, toss the hot pasta with 2 T of the cheese and stir until the cheese coats the pasta completely. Add the butter, and stir until melted. Toss with the remaining cheese. Season to taste with salt and serve immediately.

Enjoy!