Whether venturing off to a far-flung campsite or keeping things close with a backyard (or even indoor!) tent, the secret to glamping success is a menu that’s delicious as it is effortless. Here, I’ve got you covered with a light-yet-satisfying main dish, sweet and savory snack, and a protein-packed spin on s’mores. Roll up your sleeping bag - we’re going glamping!
Disclosure: this post is brought to you in partnership with the New York Beef Council. As always, opinions are my own and my love of all things beef is true.
First thing’s first: let’s define “glamping,” shall we? I’ve always sort of imagined wearing a flowing mumu and a full face of makeup, dripping in costume jewelry and toasting marshmallows and the good life. But…apparently that’s not quite accurate. According to Oxford, glamping is a form of camping involving accommodation and facilities more luxurious than those associated with traditional camping. Here in New York State, the trend has caught on from the southern tip of Manhattan and extends throughout the Catskills and beyond. Think luxurious bedding, fluffy pillows, and access to a mini bar. Two words: I’m sold.
While you might not be able to make it to such a campsite this summer, hopefully nothing’s stopping you from packing up a cooler of goodies and taking some elements of glamping right into your backyard. Either way, you’ll need a fuss-free menu that holds up to the summer heat.
For starters, how about a glamorous, dare I say more worldly spin on the classic steak salad? Warm or cold (depending on your grill situation), lean strip steak packs a nutrient-dense punch and serves as a tasty addition to a plant-powered plate of kimchi, slaw, and edamame salad. The hardier veggies are more cooler-friendly than lettuce-greens, and the variety of textures and flavors elevates the ordinary steak salad. Get the recipe, here!
Now, how about a little snack to go with your glamping cocktails and mocktails? Chips are fun, but easy glamping calls for something a bit unexpected. Round up a few basic snack staples, combine them with an unexpected sweet, and enjoy a trail mix that combines protein, fiber, healthy fat, and the right amount of fun.
In a plastic container or resealable bag, combine:
-1 cup chopped beef jerky (a sturdier variety works best);
-1/2 cup roasted unsalted almonds;
-1/4 cup raisins;
1/4 cup espresso chocolate chips
Feel free to play around with variations here, swapping out almonds for cashews, dried cranberries for raisins, and even white chips for the espresso variety. The secret to the satisfaction here is the beef jerky, providing on average 9g of protein per ounce.
But…real talk: what’s a glamping experience without s’mores?! Few do dessert better than Spiced Blog, and his S’Mores Brownies are drool-worthy whether fresh out of the oven, or frozen and defrosted at a later date. Wanna take them next level? Use this recipe from beefitswhatsfordinner.com as a base. Trust me - you’ll never look at ground beef the same way again. And while David Dial’s recipe calls for finishing the brownies under a broiler, you could follow my lead, take a kitchen torch outside, and enjoy the magic of toasted marshmallows with your guests, no campfire required. Just don’t burn the tent - or the house down.
So tell me, what are your end of summer plans? Let me know in the comments, below!
Enjoy your food. Enjoy your life!