Makes 6 to 8 servings There are a lot of advantages to including an all-ages activity in a casual gathering of families. It’s an icebreaker for guests who aren’t well acquainted, and it focuses the high energy of children. For instance, dessert at Michelle Rosen’s gatherings at her Nashville, Tennessee, home is sometimes a session of do-it-yourself s’mores around the family’s backyard firepit. “I always keep a stash of crackers, marshmallows, and chocolate bars, and kids and adults love making their own s’mores,” she says. S’mores are as much fun to make as to eat—and experimentation is encouraged. “When I’ve run out of graham crackers, we’ve used gingersnaps and other cookies, which adds a nice twist.”
4 cups peeled, seeded, cubed watermelon
1 small jicama, peeled and cut into ½-inch cubes
Finely grated peel and juice of 1 lime
⅓ cup chopped fresh mint
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
Combine the watermelon and jicama in a large bowl. Add the lime peel and juice, mint, and vinegar. Toss to combine. Refrigerate until chilled. Serve cold.
Makes 6 to 8 servings
Note: Chopped or torn basil and cilantro are excellent additions to this cool, summery salad. You can make this recipe ahead, just don’t add the herbs until right before you’re ready to serve.