Tailgating in the South is nothing short of an art. Walk through any southern stadium parking area on game day and you’re sure to see anything and everything from custom grills to white tablecloths and sterling silver candelabras. What you may not recognize, however, are the long traditions behind each and every group’s tailgate. Some have had the same parking space for decades, passed down through generations of families. Others have tried-and-true game day recipes. For instance, I’ve never been to a South Carolina game without Bob and Janet Keen’s Lil’ Smokies pig-n-the-blankets. It just wouldn’t be the same.

Got a little carried away at the U-pick farm and now buried in berries? Maybe you took advantage of the farmers market deal and bought three baskets instead of just one? Preserve or use up the surplus in a variety of ways, from hearty salads to tart-sweet syrups.

It’s summer in the South and that means some of the best days of eating are here. Garden fresh fruits and vegetables, family gatherings, lazy days spent on the river or at the beach all bring about the sharing of food—delicious food.

As we all know, certain foods and the preparation of them are regional. Here in the South, summer is all about eating fresh and local. Juicy watermelon and peaches, vine-ripened tomatoes, barbecue and potato salad, they are all staples of the South—the foods in which memories are made. Welcome to the South…now let’s eat!

Nestled in the heart of Bluffton, Belfair Plantation sits quietly off the highway eluding to scenic views and beautiful homes. The graceful entrance bids the viewer a taste of the charm that lies within. After driving past Belfair nearly every day, I was very excited for the opportunity to learn more about the plantation, and most of all, take a behind-the-scenes look at the magic that happens in their renowned kitchen.

Salad is usually an accompaniment. But what if you turn the tables and make it the star of the meal? The beginning of summer is the perfect time for such a light and refreshing option.
Many of us have participated in wine tastings. For a fun and equally informative change of pace, why not a lettuce tasting? A rut often accompanies lettuce—many diners eat the same one repeatedly.