Tailgating Inside-Out

They aren't homemade, but are perfect for a tailgate

It took a while to put this blog post together because I felt like it was bad luck to post a story about tailgating for KU games when the boys lost. Three tailgates later and too bad - the post must go on.

Tailgating in the elements

When mother nature doesn't cooperate, just bring out the tent and improvise. I've found that the more thrown together the tailgate, the more fun. For this one the menu consisted of chips/salsa, pita chips and mascarpone cheese dip, chicken k-bobs and yummy desserts. It's always a smorgasbord when everyone contributes.

Future KU Band member?

No need to bring music, we're always serenaded by the KU band warming up, along with the chatter of other local gatherings. Leah is thinking she'll stick with a smaller instrument.

The K-Bobs before grilling

I firmly believe in having everything ready to go, so the cooking is to a minimum and the socializing rules. K-bobs make a perfect tailgate grilling food with two food groups in one!

Back home at the ranch

Tailgating at home for an away game is another story. This is when I like to bring out really savory and flavorful recipes and try them out on the gang. This was a chilly day, so I opted for homemade pizzas, chips/dip and yummy lobster cappuccino.

Lobster cappuccino served in what else - cappuccino cups

Thanks to Jasper Mirabile, I was able to make my first attempt at Lobster Cappuccino. How can lobster, cream and pancetta be bad? I knew it was a hit when there was complete silence for 10 minutes as people dug into the cups of soup.

Pizzas ready for the oven in lots of flavors!

You can't go wrong with pizzas in all shapes and sizes, from the basic cheese and spices for the kids to the grown up version with proscuitto, pine nuts, fresh oregano and fabulous Italian cheeses.

Thanks Jasper!

The team toasting Jasper as he helped supply the last minute ingredients I couldn't locate (and it's his recipe of course!)

The gang

Always shoot for a fun, flavorful and eclectic tailgate menu, but remember, in the end, it's really about the friends and tailgating fun.