As you begin thinking about summer entertaining; whether it be college graduation parties, bridal showers, or just evenings on the porch with your best pals, a great way to dress up any get together is with a sparkling wine cocktail.

Yesterday as I was celebrating the end of the semester and trying to find something comfortable to wear to work our two commencement ceremonies, I decided to treat myself to a little something festive to celebrate another academic year coming to a successful conclusion.

Strawberries were on sale this week and I had picked up two pounds, and I had a bottle of sparkling wine that I was going to use to celebrate with, so I decided to put the two together in what I call Easy Elegance. I simply pureed the strawberries with a tablespoon of lime juice, put two tablespoons into the bottom of the champagne flute and topped it off with the sparkling wine.

It was pretty and delicious.

By the way, my advice to everyone is not to wait to open the sparkling wine! Celebrate everyday! Don’t miss a special moment by sitting around waiting for one to happen.