This past weekend was full of Momma and Emily (plus Leann and Maggie and Haines on Friday evening) time. It was glorious. We got a few wedding details handled (more on that tomorrow) and we also had some delicious eats. On Friday night, we had “ladies night” at Jibarra in Raleigh. I was super impressed with the margaritas and the guacamole. But I must say, Cantina 18 is still my favorite. The salads were super fresh and I loved the dressing but I was kind of disappointed with the potato appetizer my Momma ordered. Win some, lose some. Would I go again? Yes, if margaritas were involved.
pear and cilantro margarita
On Saturday, it was just me and Momma. We decided to have dinner in that night (I had some blueberry goat cheese in the fridge I was just dying to get my hands on for an appetizer). On the menu: Grilled Chicken in Sun Dried Tomato Vinaigrette with a salad. Oh, and I had wine, Momma went with sweet tea (such a Southern lady).
wine for me, sweet tea for her.
That makes me realize I should put a tea maker on the registry….
The grilled chicken couldn’t be easier – and you don’t even need an outside grill. I didn’t even try to fire up BQ – I simply used a grill pan. All you do is whirl the ingredients in a food processor (or blender): sun dried tomatoes (packed in oil), balsamic and red wine vinegar, garlic, salt, olive oil and fresh basil. Reserve a little for serving and then marinate the chicken for about an hour.
Grilled to perfection.
Perfect Momma-Daughter date night.
I just recently tried Jibarra AND Cantina 18, and I must say I agree. While Jibarra had some fabulously delicious drink choices, Cantina 18 rocked my Mexican food world. Shall we meet for margaritas soon?
absolutely! but i will say that cantina 18′s sangria rocks my face off.