There are plenty of easy and delicious options for feeding a crowd in the summer. Grilled burgers, hot dogs or barbecue chicken are traditional crowd pleasers, while cold pasta salads, grilled veggies and fruit skewers are easy side dishes. For a lighter option, consider a build-your-own taco or salad bar, allowing guests to customize their meals. Don’t forget refreshing drinks like lemonade, iced tea or a fruity sangria. And for dessert, try ice cream, fruit tarts or s’mores around a campfire.

Yes, you can put foil in an Instant Pot. Foil can be used to cover dishes or create a sling to lift food out of the pot. However, it is important to ensure that the foil doesn’t come into direct contact with the heating element or block the steam release valve. Additionally, avoid using heavy-duty or non-stick foil as they can potentially damage the non-stick coating of the Instant Pot’s inner pot.

Dried sage can be used as a culinary herb to add flavor and aroma to dishes such as stuffing, soups, stews, and roasted meats. It can also be used in herbal remedies for its purported benefits such as improving digestion, easing menstrual cramps, and boosting memory. Additionally, dried sage can be burned as a smudge to cleanse a space or promote relaxation during meditation.

Simple syrup is a versatile sweetener that can be used in a variety of ways. It is commonly used to sweeten cocktails, lemonade, and other beverages. It can also be used in baking and pastry recipes as a moistening agent or glaze. Simple syrup is also useful for preserving fruits or as a topping for pancakes or waffles. Overall, simple syrup can add sweetness to any dish without altering its texture or consistency.

To keep a wine journal, start by purchasing a journal or notebook dedicated solely to recording your wine experiences. Record the name of the wine, the brand, vintage, type of grape, and the region it comes from. Take note of the color, aroma, taste, and food pairings. You can also include information on the winery, price, and your personal rating. Lastly, be consistent and organized by regularly updating your journal with new entries and maintaining your notes in a clear and legible manner.

Vanilla bean paste is not the same as vanilla extract. Though they are both made from vanilla beans, vanilla extract is typically made by soaking vanilla beans in alcohol and water, while vanilla bean paste also includes sugar and sometimes a thickening agent like cornstarch. Vanilla bean paste often has a stronger and more complex flavor than vanilla extract, and is often used in recipes where the appearance of vanilla seeds is desired, such as in custards, ice cream, and frosting.

Yes, uncooked pasta can be added to a slow cooker. However, it is important to note that the pasta will absorb liquid and cook in the slow cooker, so it is necessary to adjust the liquid quantity and cooking time accordingly to avoid overcooking or undercooking the pasta. Adding the pasta towards the end of the cooking time, around the last hour, will help prevent it from becoming too mushy.

It is recommended to use eggs that are at least a week old but not more than 2 weeks old for hard boiling. Fresh eggs are more difficult to peel, while older eggs are easier to peel due to the membrane between the shell and the egg white breaking down over time. Additionally, older eggs will have a larger air cell, which helps to separate the shell from the egg white when boiled.

Yes, monkey bread is still good the next day if stored properly. It can be reheated in the microwave or oven to restore its freshness and gooey texture. Some people even prefer it the next day as the flavors have had more time to meld together.

For a concrete driveway, it is recommended to use a paint specifically designed for concrete surfaces. Look for paint that has been formulated to withstand heavy traffic, tire marks, and harsh weather conditions. Epoxy, acrylic, and latex paints are popular options for concrete driveways. Be sure to clean the surface thoroughly and repair any cracks before applying the paint. Consult with a professional or the manufacturer’s instructions for the best application and drying times.