Run For the Roses

I've been to Kentucky the last three years for the Derby, so I was a little disappointed that I wasn't in the midst of the excitement this year at Churchill Downs.  However, we managed to have a great time at home in MN.  We threw a small party at my parent's house for our friends who are also horse racing enthusiasts and created this Kentucky Derby Table.   

I love these miniature serving glasses that I got from Pier 1 Imports.  I made a simple Caprese Salad.  To make this salad slice baby tomatoes in half, dice fresh mozzarella and basil leaves, mix all ingredients together and add pepper, salt, and extra virgin olive oil. 

 A Kentucky Derby Table wouldn't be complete without a Derby Pie.  See recipe in my previous post. 

 My mom made spicy pecans to include on the table.  These are really delicious and a crowd favorite. 

I made some white cupcakes with buttercream frosting, adorned with red buttercream roses.  After all, the Kentucky Derby is known as the Run for the Roses.  The red rose is the official flower of the Kentucky Derby and the winner receives a garland made up of more than 400 roses. 

A derby party wouldn't be complete without some libations.  One of the specialty drinks we made was the Oaks Lily.  This is the official drink of the Kentucky Oaks, which is the race run the day before the Kentucky Derby.  This race is exclusively for 3yr old fillies.  Click here for the official Oaks Lily recipe.

We also made Early Times Mint Juleps.  The Mint Julep has been the traditional beverage of Churchill Downs for almost a century.  Click on the following link to see the official Mint Julep recipe . 

  Here is my mom and some of her lovely lady friends sporting their Derby hats!

My friend Hanna and I with our fun, festive Derby head ware. 

Congratulations to #16 Animal Kingdom, the official winner of the 137th Kentucky Derby!